As the debut of Cunard’s first new ship in a decade approaches, the luxury line officially took delivery of Queen Anne at an Italian shipyard where she has been under construction for the last two years.
Government representatives and cruise line and shipyard executives gathered to celebrate the traditional handover ceremony on April 19, 2024.
Handover Ceremony Is Held for New Cunard Ship
Cunard’s new Queen Anne, set to enter service in early May 2024, was officially delivered to the line during a handover ceremony at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard, near Venice. The ship will join Cunard’s existing fleet, which includes QueenMary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria.
Although Queen Anne will sail her inaugural voyage on May 3, 2024, a 7-night roundtrip cruise from Southampton to Lisbon, Portugal, and La Coruna, Spain, her christening ceremony will not be held until June 3, 2024, in Liverpool, England. The ship will arrive in Liverpool at the end of a 14-night British Isles Festival cruise that departs Southampton on May 24, 2024.
“We are so excited to welcome Queen Anne to our fleet as she completes a remarkable quartet alongside Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria – marking the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service,” said Katie McAlister, president of Cunard.
“We are now fully focused on readying her to welcome guests for her maiden voyage on 3 May before she embarks on an historic British Isles Festival Voyage, including a momentous Naming Ceremony in Cunard’s spiritual home of Liverpool on 3 June,” added McAlister.
14 days to go and we are so excited to announce that Queen Anne has officially joined our iconic fleet during a traditional handover ceremony at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice.
The ship’s maiden British Isles Festival Voyage will call at Edinburgh, Invergordon, Greenock, Belfast, and finally Liverpool, where the naming ceremony will be held. Cunard has not yet revealed the name of the ship’s godmother or godfather, but an announcement is expected very soon.
The 14-deck, 113,300-gross ton Queen Anne will accommodate 3,000 guests in Cunard’s three traditional categories of service, Queens Grill, Princess Grill, and Britannia. Design highlights include a two-level Royal Court Theatre, 15 restaurants, several sports courts, and a wellness center, called Mareel Wellness & Beauty, offering a full spa and fitness area.
The line’s Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth also were constructed by Fincantieri, launching in 2007 and 2010, respectively. Top executives of the shipyard were on hand to mark the historic handover.
“We are very pleased and eager to deliver Queen Anne to Cunard, a pioneering figure in luxury sea travel, renowned for setting new standards in oceanic voyages for over 180 years,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri.
“This beautiful and iconic ship testifies to the longstanding partnership between our two companies, underscoring our shared commitment to excellence and tradition in the maritime industry,” Folgiero added.
High-end Retail, Cuisine Await Queen Anne Guests
Queen Anne will feature several innovative public spaces, such as a luxury retail area called Grand Lobby Boutiques, where guests will find the ship’s Cabinet of Curiosities and the Experience Lounge.
The Cabinet of Curiosities promises to be a highlight, with a rotunda-style gallery design showcasing nearly 40 display cases of high-end jewelry, clothing, art, and collectibles. In the Experience Lounge, Queen Anne’s guests can enjoy the luxe treatment from dedicated shopping hosts, or personal shopping concierges, who will offer expertise and knowledge of the goods for sale and the brands behind them.
Cunard also partnered with two-Michelin star chef Michel Roux, famous for his restaurant Le Gavroche, who worked closely with Cunard’s culinary development team to devise a unique gala menu exclusively for the Queen Anne‘s Queens Grill restaurant. Roux also has revamped the offerings in the ship’s Golden Lion pub.
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 will be offered along with lengthy voyages up to 18 nights.
Nestled right in the heart of Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes and coastlines is Skagway Cruise Port. The cruise port’s ideal location along Alaska’s Inside Passage makes it one of the primary gateways to Alaskan adventure, history, and natural beauty.
Due to this strategic location and its proximity to some of Alaska’s most alluring attractions, there is a good chance you will stop in Skagway if you have booked an Alaskan cruise. To help you get the most out of your time there, this comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know.
From exploring the port’s location and terminal facilities to a more general look at things to do and the region’s historic significance to the Gold Rush Era, this guide will ensure that your visit to the Last Frontier is the trip of a lifetime.
So, whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just a curious traveler wanting to know more about a place before you visit, it’s time to explore everything the Skagway Cruise Port has to offer!
Skagway, Alaska, is situated along Alaska’s southeastern coast, nestled at the northernmost point of the Inside Passage. The town sits above the top of a glacier-fed fjord, with the Skagway Cruise Port sitting along its southern coast.
While the cruise port is relatively small, it has several docks capable of handling full-sized cruise ships. Most cruise ships dock at the Broadway Dock, located at Broadway Street’s very edge. Two other docks are also used for cruise ships – Railroad Dock and Ore Dock, located at the southern edge of town at the end of Main Street.
No matter which dock your cruise ship stops at, all three are just a short walk to Skagway’s shopping, dining, and the town’s Gold Rush Era historic sites. The distance from the port to the town’s downtown core is less than a mile, so cruise passengers can walk roughly 18 minutes or take one of the smart shuttle buses, which will take you anywhere in town in less than 10 minutes.
Distance from the Airport
If your cruise ship is departing from Skagway, rather than stopping there as part of its itinerary, there is a good chance that you will need to catch a commuter flight from one of Alaska’s larger cities.
Unlike those in Anchorage and Juneau, Alaska, the Skagway Airport does not have the runway facilities needed to deal with larger planes. This is one of the main reasons why most Alaskan cruises list Skagway Cruise Port as a port of call rather than their original departure point.
Airport at Skagway, Alaska (Photo Credit: Ramunas Bruzas / Shutterstock)
With that said, if you do depart from Skagway, the most popular way to travel to the town is to take a roughly 45-minute commuter flight from Juneau, Alaska. Some will also choose to fly into Whitehorse, Canada, then drive the 110-mile journey along the Alaska Highway.
If you fly into Skagway Airport, it is just one mile from the Port of Skagway via Alaska Street and Broadway Street.
Cruise Lines and Terminals in Skagway
Because it is a fjord, the deep waters of Lynn Canal allow full-size cruise ships to visit Skagway. Since the town offers so much history and nearby natural beauty, it is a popular destination for some of theworld’s most popular cruise lines.
In addition to others, several major cruise lines all have itineraries that involve stops at Skagway Cruise Port, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line.
Cruise Ships Docked in Skagway (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald / Shutterstock)
As mentioned, Skagway Cruise Port features three distinct docks, each with several terminals. The terminals across the entire port feature relatively limited facilities, but you can find several public restrooms and vending machines. Unfortunately, the port does not offer free Wi-Fi as of yet, but due to the port’s proximity to downtown Skagway, you shouldn’t have any problem finding an Internet connection if you need it.
Each terminal and pier is also wheelchair accessible, so passengers with mobility needs will not encounter any issues navigating the port. Those needing assistance reaching the Skagway downtown area can take a round-trip shuttle service from the port’s drop-off and pick-up zone. The shuttle operates year-round and onlycosts five dollars for an all-day pass.
Cruise Ship Docked in Skagway (Photo Credit: Timothy L Barnes / Shutterstock)
Summer (June – August)
Since Skagway is located more south than some of Alaska’s other towns and cities, temperatures are relatively mild. Average daytime summer temperatures range from 50° to 70°F. Expect long daylight hours, as well as occasional rainfall. Pack light, comfortable clothing, but make sure you bring a rain jacket just in case.
Fall (September – November)
Temperatures in Skagway begin to cool as summer turns to fall. Expect daytime temperatures between 40° and 55°F, as well as fairly frequent showers and fog. Pack warm but breathable clothing. Don’t forget waterproof clothing if you plan on spending most of your time outdoors.
Winter (December – February)
Unsurprisingly, winter brings ice-cold weather to Skagway. Daytime temperatures average between 20° and 35°F. Daylight hours are shorter, with the sun setting as early as 3:00 PM. Expect snow accumulation to impact travel plans. Pack plenty of warm clothing, especially water and windproof outerwear.
Spring (March – May)
Spring is warmer, but it can still be quite chilly. Temperatures can range from 25° to 45°F, but you can also expect a mix of rain and snow. While this time of year brings the great thaw and a rise in wildlife activity and wildflower blooms, you still need to pack appropriately. Pack warm clothes, as well as breathable hiking gear. You will need waterproof outerwear, as well as winter gloves.
Exploring Skagway’s Gold Rush History and Nearby Attractions
Despite its small size and population, Skagway has plenty to offer visitors. Since Skagway once served as the main gateway to the gold deposits of the Klondike region of Yukon, Canada, the town has a very noticeable link to the Klondike Gold Rush.
In fact, all of downtown Skagway has been designated part ofthe Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, so many of the original buildings and artifacts have been preserved. As such, the entire town almost feels like a functioning museum.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park (Photo Credit: Jiri Vondrous / Shutterstock)
This means that cruise passengers can use their visit as an opportunity to view Gold Rush Era architecture and enjoy interactive exhibits. Why not take the time to explore some of the very same buildings used by prospectors on their way to find fame and fortune?
For those looking to take in Alaska’s stunning natural landscapes, hiking some of the famous Chilkoot Trail can be incredibly memorable. Luckily, some of the main trailheads are located just steps from Skagway cruise port. You can also visit Gold Rush Cemetery, where many famous prospectors and town residents are buried.
For those with more time to work with, hopping aboard theWhite Pass and Yukon Route Railroad is an incredible experience. The historic train can even pick up passengers at their cruise ship terminal.
Transportation Options in Skagway
Luckily, Skagway is a very walkable destination. Many popular attractions are just a short walk from the town’s cruise port. The town’s historic streets are also pedestrian-friendly, so you can simply stroll the town on foot.
For those with limited time or looking to explore further afield, shuttle services and taxis are available from the cruise port. As we will explore in greater detail, many cruise lines also partner with local excursion providers, including transportation to and from the port.
Given the town’s small size, do not expect to be able to summon rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.
Cruise Line Excursions and Things to Do Around Skagway
Visiting Skagway offers cruise passengers a wide range of outdoor adventure and exploration opportunities. Beyond Skagway’s small-town charm and famed ties to the Gold Rush Era, the surrounding area offers breathtaking views of the rugged Alaskan wilderness.
As always, we recommend booking excursions ahead of time through your cruise line. This will ensure that you have timely transportation to and from the cruise port, plus the excursion provider will have been vetted by the cruise line ahead of time.
Skagway Station of the White Pass and Yukon Route (Photo Credit: EWY Media / Shutterstock)
If enjoying the great outdoors is high on your list of things to do in Alaska, use your time in Alaska to enjoy some of the following activities:
Visit the White Pass Summit and Yukon Suspension Bridge
This 200-foot suspension bridge sits above the rapids of the Tutshi River, offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Crossing it is perfectly safe, but it will get your adrenaline pumping. Since the bridge crosses into Canada, you will need a passport or passport ID card.
The bridge takes about one hour to drive on the Klondike Highway, so most cruise passengers will visit by booking a tour excursion. These guided excursions are filled with other stops and offer plenty of opportunities to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife.
Ocean and River Rafting
Skagway sits on the Lynn Canal, North America’s longest and deepest fjord. On top of that, the town is surrounded by flowing rivers. Numerous tour operators can provide safe and guided rafting experiences.
These experiences are incredibly memorable and offer plenty of opportunities to take photographs of eagles, bears, glaciers, and other Alaskan icons.
Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts will already be aware of Alaska’s reputation for having some of the world’s best salmon and trout fishing. As you would expect, there is no shortage of tour operators willing to take eager cruise passengers out for a multi-hour fishing experience.
Learn how to fly fish on the rivers surrounding Skagway, or try your hand at fishing from a boat on the deeper waters of the Lynn Canal. Both options are easily accessible from Skagway and require little more than a short walk to an excursion operator. No matter what type of fishing you choose, you’ll enjoy the pristine backdrop of Alaska’s rugged and untamed wilderness.
Cycling
Skagway has numerous options for bike rentals and cycling tours. One of the best options is to cycle through the surrounding rainforest. While it may seem strange to think of such a notoriously cold area with a rainforest, the dense forests surrounding the town are classified as temperate rainforests.
Trails take you alongside the forest, as well as the nearby Taiya River and various historic sites. While we encourage you to take a cycling tour to maximize the experience, self-guided trips along the trails can be just as fun!
Helicopter Tours
Viewing Skagway and the surrounding landscape from the air is an experience unlike any other. Plenty of helicopter tours are ideal for cruise ship passengers, as they allow you to take in an incredible amount of scenery in a limited time. Save time and view the mountains, glaciers, fjords, and forests from above.
Temsco Helicopter Tours (Photo Credit: EWY Media / Shutterstock)
Helicopters depart right along Skagway’s waterfront, so, depending on which of the three piers your cruise ship docks at, reaching the heliport will only involve a 5-to-15-minute walk from Skagway cruise port.
Dining and Shopping in Skagway
While the official currency is the American dollar, most vendors are used to Canadian tourists and will accept Canadian dollars at a flat exchange rate. We recommend using US currency to get the best deal, but most establishments accept the major credit cards. The town has plenty to offer, so you won’t want to forget your wallet on the ship!
Dining
Despite the town’s small size, its booming tourism industry means that a diverse array of dining options are available to visitors. From cozy cafés that serve warm beverages and comfort food to more upscale restaurants that take advantage of Alaskan seafood and other locally sourced ingredients, you will have plenty of options.
Red Onion Saloon in Skagway, Alaska (Photo Credit: Alexandre.ROSA / Shutterstock)
No trip to Skagway is complete without a visit to the iconic Red Onion Saloon. This local landmark has been around since the Gold Rush Era. Today, it serves classic American dishes, has a fully stocked bar, and even has a brothel museum. Located on the corner of 2nd and Broadway, it’s just an 11-minute walk from the cruise port.
If seafood is your thing, don’t miss the Skagway Fish Company. Order all the Alaskan classics, like Alaskan crab legs, fish and chips, wild-caught salmon, and more. Plus, it’s located just outside the cruise port, so it couldn’t be easier to get to.
You could also sample the beers at Skagway Brewing Company, grab a slice at Northern Lights Pizzeria, or enjoy a caribou burger at Skagway BBQ Shack. All three are just a short walk from the piers!
Shopping
Skagway also offers shopping enthusiasts an opportunity to browse a wide variety of unique souvenirs and hand-made goods. Handcrafted jewelry and authentic Native Alaskan artwork both make unique and stunning keepsakes. Plenty of stores offer the latest outdoor gear and clothing, which can come in handy if you forget anything.
Gift Stores in Skagway (Photo Credit: Alexandre.ROSA / Shutterstock)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Skagway walkable from the cruise port?
Yes, Skagway is very walkable. Most of the town’s main attractions and amenities are easily walkable from the cruise port.
Is Skagway worth seeing?
Absolutely! Skagway itself offers a rich history and a stunning natural backdrop. There are also plenty of exciting outdoor activities just a short distance from Skagway’s downtown core.
Do cruise ships stop in Skagway?
Many of North America’s top cruise lines include a port of call stop in Skagway as part of their Alaskan itineraries. Since the town has so much to offer and travel to and from the cruise port is so scenic, it is an incredibly popular cruise destination.
MSC Cruises is tempting guests to extend their at-sea vacations with new pre- and post-cruise hotel stays in several dynamic cities across the globe. The “Stay & Cruise” offers apply to summer 2024 itineraries onboard 11 cruise ships.
‘Stay & Cruise’ Packages Offered in Europe, US
MSC Cruises rolled out a “Stay & Cruise” program that invites cruisers to turn their 7-night voyage into a longer vacation, with 2- and 3-night hotel accommodations before or after their sailing, depending on the city.
The summer 2024 packages feature a variety of hotel options in Athens, Venice, Rome, Miami, and New York. Specifically, 2-night add-ons are available at a 4-star hotel in three cities — Athens, Venice, and Rome, while a 3-star hotel is featured in Miami. In New York, 2- and 3-night plans are offered at a 4-star property.
Several inclusions add value to the line’s “Stay & Cruise” packages, such as breakfasts, private roundtrip ground transfers between the airport, hotel, and ship, and a half-day excursion to each city’s leading attractions.
The add-on package deal is available in Rome on itineraries operated aboard MSC Divina, MSC Fantasia, MSC Musica, MSC Seaside, and MSC Seaview. The Venice hotel stay is offered to guests sailing on MSC Armonia, MSC Lirica, and MSCSinfonia. In both Rome and Venice, the packages are offered pre- and post-cruise.
MSC Meraviglia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Karolis Kavolelis / Shutterstock)
The package in Athens is featured with MSC Opera sailings and is available only pre-cruise.
On cruises departing from US ports, the “Stay & Cruise” packages are offered as a pre-cruise option to guests sailing Caribbean itineraries onboard MSC Seascape, departing from PortMiami. And in New York, the hotel deal is offered pre-cruise on Caribbean cruises operated on MSC Meraviglia.
Add-on Plans Feature Free City-Tour Excursions
The pre- or post-cruise add-on packages include one excursion per person in each of the cities where the plan is offered. In Rome, guests will tour Vatican City and visit the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Also, travelers will explore the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, a guided bus tour will take guests to the Colosseum and other top attractions.
In Venice, guests will enjoy a 90-minute walking tour of the heart of the city as well as a boat ride on the Guidecca Canal. Attractions visited will include San Marco, the Clock Tower, Doge’s Palace, and the famous Ponte dei Sospiri — the Bridge of Sighs.
Guests booking the Athens package will have a guided tour of the Greek capital, including sites such as the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, and the Acropolis and its Parthenon.
In Miami, guests will participate in a guided tour of the vibrant city’s arts and music scene, and visit popular Miami Beach. Guests booking the package in New York will enjoy a tour of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods, such as Little Italy, Chinatown, and Dumbo, Brooklyn, plus the Statue of Liberty, World Trade Centre, and Battery Park.
All of the add-on plans, which were created as part of the cruise line’s partnership with the Italian tour operator Going, are available for booking now. Air travel can also be booked through MSC Cruises and added to the “Stay & Cruise” packages.
MSC Cruises’ “Stay & Cruise” packages are part of the line’s 2024 cruise enrichment program. The cruise line recently unveiled several new itineraries it will offer from US ports for the 2025 summer season, onboard MSC Seascape, MSCMeraviglia, MSC Seashore, and the new-build MSC World America.
In a surprise celebration on the streets of London, Sir Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group, personally distributed free Virgin Voyages cruise tickets to 200 Londoners. The event also marks the beginning of the cruise line’s summer season in the Mediterranean.
A Grand Gesture With Free Virgin Cruises
London’s streets witnessed a unique sight on April 18 as Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, took to the streets in a scale model of the Scarlet Lady, Virgin Voyages’ first vessel, launched in 2021. The promotional stunt, on par with Branson’s celebratory antics, generously gave away 200 free cruises to lucky passersby.
From Oxford Street to Westminster Bridge, Branson’s journey drew crowds and surprised many with a ticket for two aboard any Virgin Voyage cruising the Mediterranean this summer.
Branson expressed his enthusiasm, stating,“It’s been wonderful to go aboard ‘Scarlet Lady’ this morning, sailing around and surprising lucky Londoners with free voyages.”
Added Virgin Voyages CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu,“We’re thrilled to kick-start our summer Med season with this fun surprise in London and to give unsuspecting travelers a chance to come aboard and experience the standout destinations all over the Mediterranean.”
Other prizes awarded during the surprise celebration included Virgin Points from the loyalty club, Virgin Red, which can be redeemed for flights, train travel, and Virgin Experiences.
Embarking on a Summer of Adventures
Branson’s pop-up “voyage” coincides with Virgin Voyage’s soon-to-launch summer season in the Mediterranean. The two ships will set sail first, with Resilient Lady departing from Barcelona on May 4 and Scarlet Lady launching from Barcelona on May 5. The two ships will both remain in Europe for the summer, with Resilient Lady managing cruises from its Piraeus (Athens), Greece, homeport beginning on May 9.
Richard Branson Gifts Free Cruises in London (Photo Credit: Virgin Voyages)
The two ships will spend the summer sailing more than 45 different itineraries, including destinations like Greece, Croatia, France, and Spain. Scarlet Lady, which can accommodate 2,770 passengers and an international crew of 1,160, will embark on longer roundtrip Med adventures from Barcelona, calling in Toulon, Marseille, and Cannes, France; Marina di Carrara, Italy; Ajaccio, Corsica; and Ibiza and Palma de Mallorca, Spain, on varying itineraries.
During the season, sister ship Resilient Lady, with the same capacity and weighing 110,000 gross tons, will enjoy 5-night jaunts between Barcelona and Athens, with stops in La Valletta, Malta, and Santorini, Greece, as well as 10-night roundtrip voyages from Athens, visiting ports in Santorini, Mykonos, and Corfu, Greece; Bodrum, Turkey; Chania, Crete; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Kotor, Montenegro.
“I’m abig believer in it not just being about where you go, but how you get there,” said Branson. “Summer is a time for exploration, relaxation, and creating unforgettable memories, and sailing the Med in style is the vitamin-sea everybody needs.”
In addition to the Mediterranean cruises, Virgin Voyages will introduce a new cruise from Portsmouth, U.K., on August 23, marking a return to its launching point. The new routes aboard Resilient Lady feature 3- to 6-night voyages, visiting historic European cities such as Amsterdam, Holland, and Zeebrugge, Belgium.
Scarlet Lady in Italy (Photo Credit: maudanros)
Resilient Lady will stay in Portsmouth through September, departing on September 29 on a return to Barcelona for two additional Med cruises before crossing the Atlantic on an October 27 voyage to Miami.
Scarlet Lady will stay in the Med through the fall, concluding the season with a 16-night transition cruise on November 28 that also arrives in Miami. The two ships will then begin a winter season in the Caribbean.
Valiant Lady, Virgin Voyages’ third ship, will spend its summer and the remainder of the year in the Caribbean.
Casino gambling and games of chance are a fixture on most major cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, which regularly hosts slot tournaments and other events for dedicated gamblers. What the cruise line does not permit, however, is any unauthorized for-cash gambling outside of the casinos.
One such round of unauthorized gaming was recently shut down aboard Carnival Luminosa, leading to heated discussions about what is and isn’t gambling and what is permitted onboard.
Carnival Cruise Security Shuts Down Unauthorized Gambling on Carnival Luminosa
Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald has addressed an incident of unauthorized gambling aboard Carnival Luminosa. Apparently, a game of what was first reported as cards but later revealed as Left-Center-Right (LCR), a popular dice game, was being played with a large group of guests betting on their play on the ship’s lido deck.
LCR is not necessarily a betting game – the game is played with chips and dice, and can be fast-moving depending on players’ familiarity with the rules. At least three players are required, but it can also be played with larger groups.
To increase the excitement of the game, some players may bet on individual hands or other overall outcome. It is this betting that is not permitted on Carnival cruise ships.
“I was informed that the group leader had been arranging a card game played on Lido each day where quite large amounts of money were changing hands. This was reported to me and as brand ambassador it was my duty to report that to the Ship,”Heald explained.“This is because gambling outside of the casino is strictly forbidden aboard any of our ships.”
Carnival Luminosa (Photo Credit: Ian Dewar Photography)
While at first it was believed to be a game of cards, even betting on dice or other games is not permitted.
“Gambling with dice or cards for money organized by a group leader is not allowed,”Heald confirmed.“It is really truly that simple.”
Carnival Luminosa is currently midway through a 30-night repositioning cruise that departed Brisbane, Australia on April 1. The ship is visiting outstanding ports of call in the amazing destinations of Guam, Japan, and Alaska on her way to Seattle, where she will arrive on May 1. The ship will remain homeported from Seattle for the Alaska sailing season.
The 92,720-gross-ton Carnival Luminosa can welcome 2,260 guests aboard at double occupancy, or as many as 2,826 travelers when fully booked.
Not a Profit Motive
In response to Heald’s explanation, some disgruntled guests have claimed that the cruise line only disallows such activities in order to ensure travelers are spending their money in the ship’s casino instead.
Heald notes that this is not the case, but it was a legal obligation that he had to report the activity to the ship so it could be promptly stopped.
There are different laws onboard Carnival cruise ships that cover gambling and betting, and the cruise line must also abide by local gambling and betting laws in ports of call in different countries. While guests are absolutely permitted to play such games at their leisure, it is the betting and money exchanging hands that cannot be permitted.
Carnival Luminosa (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
“Gaming involving money is not allowed outside of the casino and there are strict rules about this on every cruise line,”Heald said.“We hope you can continue to play the game without money changing hands, but because it had been reported, whether you appreciate that or not, I’m afraid it is something that I had to report, that is my job, I work for Carnival Cruise Line.”
At the moment, no consequences other than a visit from ship’s security to ensure the game is stopped have been levied. Heald does note, however, that if the same group were to continue organizing games with money changing hands, there could be further consequences.
Was It Really Gambling?
The details of the amount of money exchanged and why money was changing hands at all is a bit muddled. Heald has explained that he was sent photos showing “the people holding fistful of dollar bills, these were the people that had won the game.”
The organizer of the game has joined the conversation, however, nothing that each person involved played only with five $1 bills. The individual repeatedly claims “It is innocent fun and is NOT gambling” and “We weren’t gambling. The game does not involve bets or wagers.”
No explanation has been given, however, for why any currency was involved at all, if it was not gambling, bets, or wagers.
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, gambling is “the practice of risking money or other stakes in a game” – there is no minimum amount necessary to be considered gambling. Furthermore, even if the money even went to just one eventual winner, that is still technically gambling, even if wagers or bets were not placed on individual turns or rounds of gameplay.
Carnival Cruise Line has addressed a pricey rumor about cash, namely, the use of cash onboard the cruise line’s ships. Despite social media insistence, the cruise line will, in fact, permit guests to continue using cash to set up their onboard accounts, though individual retail outlets onboard are indeed cashless.
Carnival Cruise Line Will Continue Accepting Cash
The latest rumor swirling around Carnival Cruise Line is the idea that beginning in 2025, the cruise line will no longer accept any cash onboard for Sail & Sign accounts. While it is true that onboard shops, bars, spa facilities, photo galleries, and other retail outlets do not accept cash as payment, the rumor indicates that guests will not be able to set up their Sail & Sign accounts using cash.
“I was going to make a joke about our ships not taking cash, only credit cards. But bugger, I just can’t think of one ATM,”John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, joked about the rumor.“This is not correct, cash is and will continue to be allowed.”
Furthermore, guests can feel free to offer cash as extra tips and gratuities to their cabin attendants, bartenders, wait staff, and other crew members as desired.
The confusion may be due to the fact that guests are not permitted to use cash why buying anything in the onboard shops, and may not pay for dining reservations, spa treatments, or shore tours booked through the cruise line with cash directly.
Many travelers prefer to use cash on a cruise as a way to ensure they do not run up large credit card bills that can be an unpleasant surprise after a fun vacation. Some travelers may also not have credit cards, or wish to use cash just as a matter of personal preference, especially when making purchases in ports of call where credit cards may not be accepted.
Carnival Cruise Line – and all major cruise lines – operate on a cashless basis, with shipboard accounts used for all financial transactions. Each guest’s individual account is linked to a method of payment the guest chooses when checking in for the getaway.
That method of payment may be select major credit or debit cards, traveler’s checks, or cash. One payment method (one single card, for example) may be used for up to 15 guests, making it easy to set up accounts for families or other groups.
Using Cash for a Shipboard Account
To set up a Sail & Sign account with cash, travelers will need to visit the Guest Services desk on the first day of the cruise to deposit cash to cover onboard expenses. The minimum recommended deposit, per person, is $100 (USD) for a 2-4 night cruise, $200 for a 5-8 night cruise, and $350 for any cruise 9 nights or longer.
If guests spend more onboard than they anticipated and run out of cash in their accounts, they will be contacted by Guest Services to deposit more cash. At any time during the cruise, travelers can check their account balances via the Carnival Hub app, through available kiosks, on stateroom televisions (on select ships), or at the Guest Services desk.
Carnival Liberty Promenade Deck (Photo Credit: Ihor Koptilin / Shutterstock)
If cash-based accounts are running low, travelers can easily visit Guest Services to add more cash to their overall balance if necessary or desired.
All accounts must be paid in full before guests debark at the end of their sailing. Because of long lines and debarkation procedures on the final morning of a cruise, passengers are urged to ensure their accounts will be settled appropriately on the last full day of a sailing.
Where Cash Is Accepted
Guests on all Carnival ships can continue to use cash for extra gratuities when desired, and any small amount is certainly appreciated by the hard-working crew members.
Cash can also be used in the ship’s casino, or guests can use their Sail & Sign accounts for gambling if funds are available. For accounts set up with credit cards, daily limits do apply for casino play.
Do you use cash to set up your onboard account? How much cash do you bring onboard? Share your thoughts on the Cruise Hive boards!
What makes cruisers tick? That’s exactly what the “From Shore to Ship” study aimed to find out – and the research team came away with good news for the cruise industry in the UK.
“From Shore To Ship” Study Signals Growth for UK Cruise Industry
Cruising is booming in the UK. According to data published by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), travelers in the UK and Ireland took 2.3 million cruises in 2023 – up from a total of 1.7 million in 2022.
With over 300 CLIA memberships set to sail in 2024, which is the first time the global CLIA member fleet has ever surpassed 300, capacity for cruising will increase by 3-4%. But in order for the industry to keep growing successfully, decision makers needed to know more about attracting prospective cruisers.
Three major travel brands, MMGY Global, Travelzoo, and CLIA, teamed up to learn how to reach first-time cruisers in a new study titled “From Shore to Ship: Attracting The Next Wave of Cruisers. The study, which was conducted online in February 2024, surveyed 2,000 UK-based adults who had never taken a cruise before. The findings, which were released on April 17, 2024, revealed four key elements that are important to potential passengers.
First, those who have hesitated to book a cruise in the past largely did so due to concerns about the cost and overall value. Over 60% of participants reported concerns over not just the cost of the cruise itself, but also the cost of additional travel arrangements and add-ons like specialty dining experiences and shore excursions. That said, all-inclusive, transparent pricing is appealing to this crowd, and would make them feel more confident in their decision to book.
Second, potential cruisers are extremely motivated by the ports of call on the itineraries. Over half of the respondents said the quality of the destination would be their primary motivation to book.
Cruise Ships Docked in Southampton, UK (Photo Credit: Ben Gingell)
Third, potential cruisers are becoming increasingly conscious of sustainability efforts and their role in promoting sustainability as consumers. That said, there is a significant lack of awareness regarding how the cruise industry, as well as specific cruise lines, have worked to go green – and knowing about environmentally friendly efforts is a positive for first-time cruisers.
Fourth, an important barrier for cruise lines to overcome is accessibility. While avid cruisers will sail time and time again, the majority of non-cruisers tend to see taking a cruise as a luxury, once-in-a-lifetime event. There are definitely opportunities to show potential passengers that cruising can be accessible and family-friendly.
Younger Prospects Show Stronger Interest In Cruising
Stereotypically, cruising has always attracted an older crowd. In the UK and Ireland, the average passenger age is 56 years old, per data from Statista. But interestingly, the “From Shore to Ship” study revealed that there was solid interest among a younger crowd – particularly those between the ages of 18 to 34.
This interest is largely driven by digital media, and influencers on social media. With the rise of TikTok and Instagram cruise influencers, which includes both crew members and passengers, cruises have begun to seem more mainstream, cooler, and exciting to younger prospects.
Cruise Passengers Visiting Cozumel, Quintana Roo (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
Just to name a recent example, Royal Caribbean’s world cruise onboard Serenade of the Seas went viral on social media shortly after it set sail at the end of 2023. Ship tours to videos detailing the drama unfolding on the ship went viral on TikTok and brought influencers onboard thousands of new followers.
That said, there are also plenty of reasons to support why cruising is a good travel option for younger people, starting with affordability. Since the majority of cruises are all-inclusive, lodging (your cruise cabin), meals, and entertainment onboard are all included. This is often less expensive than traveling to different destinations by land, which includes paying for meals, hotels, and travel daily, at a minimum.
While add-ons like shore excursions or specialty dining are often extra, they are not mandatory to purchase and there are often multiple options available to suit a range of budgets.
Additionally, many cruise lines only require a deposit upfront and offer payment plans or allow cruisers to make multiple payments over time on their own until the final payment is due shortly before the cruise. This is helpful for younger cruisers, who may still be establishing their careers, to budget and manage their cash flow better than other forms of travel.
It’s no secret that MSC Cruises, which is already the industry leader in Europe, has set its sights on North America.
As part of its plans to expand its reach in the US, the cruise line has unveiled several new itineraries for the 2025 summer season that will be offered by MSC Seascape, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seashore, and the soon-to-be-completed MSC World America.
MSC World America Will Begin Career In Miami, Florida
The flagship of MSC Cruises’s World-class fleet, MSC World America, will spend its inaugural season based in Miami, Florida. The 6,762-passenger ship is currently in the final phases of construction, but will homeport at what will be the world’s largest cruise terminal when it enters service in April of 2025.
As part of its expansion into North America, the 23-ship cruise line has invested $350 million into building the largest passenger cruise terminal in the US, which will be able to accommodate 36,000 passengers per day. The terminal will open in 2025.
Of course, it only makes sense to debut a new cruise terminal with a brand new ship. Departing every Saturday throughout the summer, the 215,863-gross ton MSC World America will alternate between 7-night, round-trip, Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean voyages.
MSC World America Cruise Ship
The Eastern Caribbean sailings will call on Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Ocean Cay, the cruise line’s private island and marine reserve in the Bahamas. Meanwhile, the Western Caribbean voyages will visit Costa Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; and Ocean Cay.
For guests who want to see it all, there will also be an option to combine both itineraries to create a 14-night Eastern and Western Caribbean Cruise.
More MSC Cruise Ships Sailing In North America
While MSC World America’s debut in the US is certainly something to look forward to, she won’t be the only vessel sailing in US waters throughout summer 2025. Indeed, MSC Seascape will also homeport in the cruise line’s state-of-the-art terminal in Miami, while MSC Meraviglia and MSC Seashore will be based in New York City and Port Canaveral, respectively.
“We want our guests to experience MSC Cruises’ most modern and innovative ships, whether they’re on a quick weekend getaway or the vacation of a lifetime. The Summer 2025 season will be an exciting one for us. MSC World America will let our guests experience the future of cruising with 7-night itineraries from Miami, and we’re enhancing our short cruises from Miami with the fantastic MSC Seascape providing 3- and 4-night options,” said Rubén A. Rodríguez, President of MSC Cruises USA.
We’re especially thrilled that all four ships sailing from U.S. homeports will call at Ocean Cay, providing guests with the opportunity to experience MSC Cruises’ unique and beautiful private island in The Bahamas no matter where they embark,” addedRodríguez.
MSC Seascape, which will share PortMiami with MSC World America, will alternate between 3-, 4-, and 7-night itineraries that will embark on select Thursdays and Sundays all summer long. The longest two itineraries offered by the 5,179-guest ship will be 7-night voyages to the Western Caribbean and Eastern Caribbean.
MSC Cruise Ship in Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock)
The Eastern Caribbean itineraries include stops at Nassau, Bahamas; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; and Ocean Cay. There is some overlap with the Western Caribbean itineraries, which will also call on Nassau and Ocean Cay, but these itineraries switch out San Juan and Puerto Plata for visits to Jamaica and Grand Cayman.
MSC Seascape’s shorter sailings, which will last for 3 to 4-nights, will sail to the Bahamas, calling on Ocean Cay and Nassau.
About 285 miles away in Port Canaveral, Florida, MSC Seashore will offer a range of itineraries departing on Thursdays and Sundays. These include 3 to 4-night cruises to the Bahamas, which will call on Nassau and Ocean Cay, and 7-night Western Caribbean Cruises, which will stop at Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico and Ocean Cay.
Last but not least, MSC Meraviglia will be alternating between cruises to Bermuda and cruises to Florida and the Bahamas from New York, from where the ship operates year-round.
Both itineraries are 7-nights long, with the Bermuda cruise including an overnight visit to the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda. Meanwhile, the Bahamas and Florida cruise features calls on Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida), Nassau, and Ocean Cay.
MSC Cruises has reached out to travel agents to advise them of the cancellation of MSC Euribia‘s Grand Voyage departing on October 19, 2024.
The sailing was to have transited through the Suez Canal and the Red Sea, but in light of the ongoing tensions in the region, it is no longer safe to operate the voyage, and no alternative is available.
MSC Euribia Grand Voyage Cancelled
MSC Cruises is alerting travel agents that the October 19, 2024 departure of MSC Euribia is now cancelled. The sailing was to have been one of the ship’s immersive “Grand Voyages” departing from Kiel, Germany and visiting ports throughout Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as a transit through the Suez Canal, on her way to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
“Considering the risks of sailing in the Red Sea due to continuous attacks on ships, we were forced to cancel MSC Euribia’s Grand Voyage from Northern Europe to the United Arab Emirates,”the email confirmed.“The safety and well-being of guests is our priority and, unfortunately, there is no viable alternative route for this trip.”
The ship will still be offering sailings from Dubai and Doha, Qatar from November 16, which means the vessel will still be moved to her new sailing region, but without guests aboard.
This repositioning could be done in two ways. The ship might sail through the Red Sea but at top speed and without passengers aboard, though this is a very risky and unlikely option, considering the vessel and her crew would still be at risk.
More likely is that the ship will sail around Africa to avoid the troubled region entirely. Because this is a much greater distance to cover, however, it is not possible for the trip to be a passenger sailing as there would not be enough time to visit ports of call while still arriving in Dubai for the ship’s planned November 16 departure.
Photo Credit: MSC Cruises
If even more time is needed to move the ship safely, additional sailings, either before or after the now-cancelled Grand Voyage, may be cancelled to accommodate the change.
MSC Euribia is the newest ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet, having just begun sailing in June 2023. Powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the 184,011-gross-ton vessel is Mereviglia-plus-class and can welcome up to 6,327 guests per sailing.
Options for Booked Guests
This news comes six months before the cruise was to have departed, giving travelers ample time to rearrange their vacation plans and choose an alternative sailing if they prefer. MSC Cruises is offering booked guests three options.
First, guests may transfer their MSC Euribia booking to another Grand Voyage aboard a different MSC Cruises ship, or still aboard MSC Euribia for different dates, at the same duration and in the same stateroom type. There would be no additional cost to the cruise fare, though flights and additional services may have cost differences.
Second, travelers can opt to move their booking and all payments already made to any currently scheduled MSC Cruises sailing, with no change fees.
Finally, if guests don’t wish to switch their booking to an alternative sailing, they can cancel for a full refund with no cancellation penalties.
MSC Cruises is requesting that all guests make their decisions by Friday, April 26, 2024. At that time, if no alternative sailing has been arranged, any remaining reservations for MSC Euribia are likely to be cancelled for refunds.
