Holland America Line has become the first global cruise line to achieve both Marine Stewardship Council and Aquaculture Stewardship Council certifications. Both mark the cruise line’s success in sourcing seafood in sustainable and responsible ways.
Esteemed Certifications Elevate Dining
The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) have awarded certifications to Holland America Line, recognizing the cruise line’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The certifications, recognized worldwide as the highest standards for sustainable seafood, mark Holland America Line as the first cruise ship to receive the accolades.
All 11 ships in Holland America Line’s fleet will be Chain of Custody certified, allowing them to serve MSC- and ASC-certified and labeled seafood.
Gua Antorcha, president of Holland America Line, said of the certifications,“Our guests care about the quality and sustainability of the fresh fish we serve, and so do we. These certifications build on our commitment of bringing regionally inspired fresh seafood dishes from port to plate in 48 hours.”
He continued to add that he was proud to partner with the two organizations that “share our dedication to protecting the vitality of the oceans we sail.”
The certifications are part of Holland America Line’s Global Fresh Fish Program, which aims to provide guests with high-quality seafood sourced sustainably when wild-caught and raised responsibly when farmed.
Holland America Line ms Noordam (Photo Credit: Ken Schulze)
The rollout of MSC and ASC labeling will begin with five ships at the start of the Europe and Canada/New England season in May 2024. Onboard dining experiences will be enhanced across Holland America Line’s fleet, with certified seafood from nine regions worldwide incorporated into menu offerings.
The rollout includes ms Volendam, which begins its Canada and New England routes on May 4 in Montreal; ms Nieuw Statendam, which launches into a Baltic journey from Rotterdam on May 5; ms Zuiderdam, also starting a Baltic exploration in May from Imjmuiden, Holland;and ms Oosterdam, which will sail in the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas from Piraeus (Athens) in May.
Sustainable Seafood Practices
Passengers on Holland American Line ships will find a diverse array of certified seafood dishes, marked with specific logos indicating the type of certification, in the Main Dining Room, Lido Market, and onboard specialty restaurants.
The certifications build on the cruise line’s existing Global Fresh Fish Program, which sources and serves fresh fish from 60 ports worldwide to all restaurants onboard. The program guarantees from “port to plate” in less than 48 hours.
Not all seafood will be certified, however. Menus will indicate the type of certification with a symbol next to the dish. Holland America’s ships in Alaska, including ms Nieuw Amsterdam, ms Eurodam, ms Koningsdam, ms Noordam, and ms Zaandam, serve 100% sustainable seafood under its Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification. The cruise line’s goal is to receive 100% accreditation of species that are eligible to meet MSC and ASC standards.
Chef Morimoto, Holland America’s Fresh Fish Ambassador of 2023 (Photo Credit: Holland America Line)
While the MSC focuses on sustainable wild-caught seafood, the ASC works with responsibly farmed seafood. Both aim to minimize environmental impacts and utilize Chain of Custody Standards designed for all companies in the supply chain that handle MSC- and ASC-certified seafood.
Said Erika Feller, Americas Director, Marine Stewardship Council, “As the first global cruise line to successfully complete the Marine Stewardship Council’s rigorous Chain of Custody audit, Holland America Line is extending our important work around sustainable, ocean-friendly fishing to a new category.”
Key requirements for certification from both entities include traceability of fish throughout every moment it appears in the supply change, keeping fish separate from non-certified products to prevent mixing and contamination, proper labeling, and keeping detailed records of fish, including purchase and sales invoices. Companies must also undergo regular audits by an independent, third-party auditor to obtain and maintain certification.
The 2025 Alaska cruise season has begun with Norwegian Bliss departing the Port of Seattle on Saturday, April 6 from the Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal on a 7-night itinerary to favorite ports in the Last Frontier.
This year is the 25th year of cruise voyages from Seattle to Alaska, a momentous milestone that will only get better with port improvements and outstanding economic impact from hundreds of sailings through the next few months. At the same time, the port is working hard to ensure environmental responsibility, preserving its position for phenomenal, unspoiled sailings for generations to come.
Norwegian Bliss Departs Port of Seattle
Norwegian Bliss has officially sailed into the 2024 Alaska season with the ship’s first departure of the year from the Port of Seattle. The 168,028-gross-ton, Breakaway-Plus class ship is purpose-built for the Alaska market, with a tremendous observation lounge and other viewing areas onboard so travelers will never miss a moment of the region’s spectacular scenery and wildlife.
The ship will be offering 7-night sailings through mid-October, visiting destinations such as Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, and Victoria, with scenic cruising in the phenomenal Glacier Bay.
Norwegian Bliss is only one ship that is part of the 275 planned sailings from the Port of Seattle this year. Up next is Carnival Spirit with her first departure on April 23, followed by Norwegian Encore departing on April 28.
In addition to ships from Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line, vessels from Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean International Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruise Line, Seabourn, and Hurtigruten Expeditions will all set sail from the Port of Seattle this year. Various ships will also visit the city as a port of call.
In total, more than 800,000 unique passengers will embark from the cruise port in the next few months, until Norwegian Bliss closes the season with her October 26 departure.
Norwegian Bliss Docked in Seattle, Washington (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock)
This is a great contrast to 2000, the first season of passenger service from Seattle, with just 36 ship calls that began with the then brand-new Norwegian Sky, now one of the oldest ships in Norwegian’s fleet.
“Our history with the Port of Seattle runs deep, and it is a partnership we are very proud of,”said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Together we pioneered voyages to Alaska from Seattle, with Norwegian Sky’s inaugural sailing to the Last Frontier in May 2000. In 2018, Norwegian Bliss was the first ship to be christened in Seattle, and today, we continue to bring guests from all over the world to sail aboard our spectacular ships from this beautiful city.”
It is the collaboration between cruise lines and the city that has made it a remarkable homeport for Alaskan sailings, with many travelers extending their visits to enjoy all the Emerald City has to offer.
“The Port of Seattle collaborates with the tourism and small business community to ensure passengers are well informed of the sights, sounds, and adventures of our city. From our revitalized waterfront to our diverse neighborhoods, passengers have an abundance of experiences to embrace,”said Visit Seattle President and CEO Tammy Canavan.
“As the gateway to Alaska, we look forward to welcoming explorers this cruise season, and sending them home eager to return for more.”
Economic Impact on the Port City
The Port of Seattle estimates that 2024’s cruise season will bring nearly $900 million in economic impact to the region, including direct tourism and spending by passengers, provisioning cruise ships, and the 5,500 jobs supported by the cruise industry, from longshoremen and port workers to expanded workforces in other tourism and related sectors.
Norwegian Bliss Cruise Ship in Seattle (Photo Courtesy: Port of Seattle)
“The working men and women of ILWU local 19 welcome the start of this year’s cruise season and the family wage jobs it provides to our local,”said Rich Austin, President ILWU local 19. “Each year the cruise industry can rely on our highly skilled and efficient workforce to see that ships are fully provisioned and the needs of passengers and their baggage are met.”
Environmental Impact at the Forefront
While the cruise industry has undeniably expanded in Seattle, both the city and the cruise lines are working to keep the industry environmentally responsible and sustainable. This will ensure many years to come of amazing cruise vacations with travelers able to enjoy the pristine waters, remarkable scenery, and stunning wildlife of the region.
“Over the last 25 years, the cruise business has become a significant part of our local economy, contributing to hundreds of businesses and thousands of jobs. All that activity comes with environmental impacts, however, and so the Port of Seattle is committed to providing a leadership role in advancing maritime decarbonization,”said Ryan Calkins, Port of Seattle Commissioner.
Photo Credit: lenic / Shutterstock
“Our objective is to provide a road map for maritime leaders worldwide that demonstrates the viability of a greener industry, one that serves our communities and passengers while minimizing environmental and social impacts.”
The port, cruise lines, and other regional communities are working together to create a green corridor for sustainable sailing. The integrated, cooperative effort is one of the first of its kind on such a massive scale to protect the delicate and unique environment of the region.
“The cruise industry is committed to sustainable operations, with some of the most technologically advanced ships sailing in the region, use of shore power to reduce emissions, and investing in new solutions to protect beautiful destinations like the Pacific Northwest,”said Sally Andrews, Vice President Communications & Public Affairs, Cruise Lines International Association.
Among the advancements to be made in 2024 is finalizing shore power for all three Seattle cruise berths, six years earlier than initially forecast.
The newest and largest ever Princess Cruises ship, Sun Princess, will have a godmother worth of her amazing presence. Award-winning British actress Hannah Waddingham will fulfill the ceremonial role for the new ship and will officially christen the vessel at a star-studded naming ceremony in Barcelona on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
Sun Princess Godmother Named
Hannah Waddingham will serve as godmother for the stunning new Sun Princess, fulfilling the role with her distinctive elegance and grace that she has brought to multiple roles as both an actress and a singer.
Waddingham has been well-known in the Apple TV+ show “Ted Lasso” for which she earned multiple accolades, among them a Primetime Emmy, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and two Golden Glove and Screen Actors Guide nominations. Her own shows have also earned her BAFTA TV Award nominations and Best Entertainment Performance awards.
“We’re delighted to welcome the illuminous and elegant Hannah Waddingham to serve as Godmother for our sensational new Sun Princess,”said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president.“Just like Sun Princess, she exudes sophistication, beauty and wonderment through her inspiring work as a talented and award-winning actress and performer.”
Naming Ceremony Announced
The ship’s official naming ceremony is planned for Port of Barcelona on Tuesday, April 23, during a 10-day roundtrip sailing from Civitavecchia (Rome). Along the way, the ship will be visiting top Mediterranean ports of call including Gibraltar, Cartagena, Palma de Mallorca, Marseille, Genoa, and La Spezia.
Hannah Waddingham
Few details of the naming ceremony have yet been announced, but the event is sure to include celebrity and VIP appearances for special performances, as well as time-honored maritime traditions that include blessings for the ship and all who sail on her.
Guests onboard for the special even are also likely to receive special keepsakes of the occasion and will have the opportunity to participate in once-in-a-lifetime events as the new ship is officially sworn into service.
It is not uncommon for new cruise ships to sail for several weeks or months before they are officially christened. This provides ample time for any finishing details to be completed on the new vessel, as well as for any operational or onboard needs to be refined.
Princess Cruises’ Godmothers
Waddingham joins an elite cadre of amazing godmothers who have symbolically represented Princess Cruises’ illustrious fleet, including Diana, Princess of Wales (Royal Princess, 1984), Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales (Royal Princess, 2013); Audrey Hepburn (Star Princess, 1989); Sophia Loren (Crown Princess, 1990); Jill Whelan (Caribbean Princess, 2004) and Martha Stewart (Crown Princess, 2006).
“We’re truly honored Hannah will officially name our most impressive, luxurious and stunning Love Boat ever created, and join an esteemed group of Princess Godparents including members of the Royal family,”said Padgett.
It is entirely appropriate for a distinctive and renowned figure to be chosen as Sun Princess’ godmother, as the vessel is one of the most distinctive ever to be part of the Princess Cruises fleet.
The Giant Sun Princess Cruise Ship
At 177,882 gross tons, the new Sphere-class Sun Princess is the largest ship ever built for Princess Cruises, and is the first vessel in the fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas.
She is also home to outstanding new and reimagined venues, such as The Dome – a geodesic, glass-enclosed transformational space inspired by Santorini’s iconic terraces. The Sphere Atrium, the ship’s central piazza, offers a new open concept with phenomenal ocean views, evoking relaxation and a sense of space right into the heart of the ship.
Sun Princess Cruise Ship
Guests onboard will be treated to phenomenal culinary options, such as Spellbound by Magic Castle, an immersive dining experience that brings a sense of magic to the taste buds, as well as Makoto Ocean for creative sushi with Chef Makoto Okuwa and a new pop-up specialty restaurant, The Butcher’s Block by Dario, with curated steaks and prime cuts from Dario Cecchini.
The new ship is now sailing amazing Mediterranean itineraries with departures available from Rome, Athens, and Barcelona, depending on the sailing date. In September, Sun Princess will make her first transatlantic voyage to move to Fort Lauderdale, where she will homeport through March 2025, offering a variety of Caribbean and Mexico cruises.
The ship will return to the Mediterranean for the summer 2025 season, and will be back to Fort Lauderdale once again in November 2025.
A former member of Carnival’s Fantasy class, Carnival Inspiration was originally christened in 1996, meaning that, if it were still sailing today, the ship would be a whopping near-30 years old. However, as of 2020, this ship has been retired, sold and sent off to the scrap yard.
As has been the case with many of Carnival Cruises’ older ships, the cruise line did refresh Carnival Inspiration multiple times over its life, bringing it up to modern standards as much as it could, with new venues. However, there just comes a time when you can only do so much to make an old ship like this appealing to today’s cruisers.
Need to know more? Here’s a glimpse of Carnival Inspiration’s life and what it looked like at the time of retirement.
In July 2020, Carnival Cruise Lines sold several ships from its fleet, including Carnival Inspiration. Along with Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Inspiration headed for the scrapyard in Turkey. As a result, Carnival canceled many future cruises, all the way through 2022, that would have taken place on Carnival Inspiration.
Carnival Inspiration Stats
Carnival Inspiration seems small in comparison to many of today’s ships. Here’s how the ship measures up:
Gross Tonnage: 70,367 GT
Length: 860 feet
Passenger capacity: 2,052 people
Crew: 902 members
Decks: 13, 10 of which are open to passengers
Cabins: 1,026
In comparison, some of Carnival’s newest cruise ships measure up to more than double that size, like Carnival Celebration, which measures in at 183,521 GT and can hold more than 6,000 cruisers at capacity.
Construction
Built in 1996 by Kvaerner Masa-Yards in Helsinki, Finland, Carnival Inspiration cost $270 million to build. After being christened by Mary A. Shula, wife of a prior Miami Dolphins coach, the ship set sail and traveled through the Caribbean and then to the West Coast, with initial sailings from Puerto Rico.
As part of the Fantasy class, Carnival Inspiration shared many features with sister ships Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Elation, Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Imagination, Carnival Paradise and Carnival Sensation.Carnival Inspiration was the sixth of the eight ships. Lead ship Carnival Fantasy had debuted in 1990.
Carnival Inspiration Dry Dock (Photo Credit: Dave R)
Of these eight ships, Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise are the only two ships still in operation. They were the youngest of the Fantasy class, both launching in 1998.
Despite how these ships look quite outdated today, the ships were very popular when they first debuted. The Fantasy class was designed to offer a modern (for the time) cruising experience.
Carnival Inspiration Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Jay Adan)
A Los Angeles Times article covering Carnival Inspiration’s launch described the ship as such: “the sixth in the series of glittering vessels glows with neon and twinkles with fiber optic rainbows, and wows fun-minded passengers with a soaring seven-deck atrium and glass elevators.”
Uniquely and possibly oddly to today’s cruisers, these ships did not offer many balcony staterooms at all. Instead, for example, on Carnival Inspiration, its 1,026 staterooms are primarily spread across 54 suites, 564 ocean view staterooms and 408 interior staterooms.
Stateroom on the Fantasy Class Ship
Fantasy-class ships also were the last cruise ships to only store their lifeboats on the upper deck.
Over its life, Carnival Inspiration served a variety of itineraries, all over the world, sailing from around the Caribbean. At the very end of its life, it was slated to serve short cruises from Long Beach, California, to Baja, Mexico.
Carnival Inspiration Dry Docks
If you managed to snag a cruise on Carnival Inspiration before it went the way of the scrapyard, then you likely noticed that the ship was not the same as it was when it was first launched in the 90s. The ship received several overhauls over the years.
For example, Carnival Inspiration was the very first cruise ship to receive an Evolutions of Fun makeover, in 2007. The Evolutions of Fun initiative refit quite a few Carnival ships and lasted through 2010, costing about $250 million total.
Carnival Inspiration Undergoing Dry Dock (Photo Credit: Dave R)
At the time of its Evolution of Fun refurbishments, the ship was 11 years old. Changes were extensive, including the addition of the aqua park, a water slide and new children’s spaces. The changes cost about $40 million.
Other renovations came in 2016, when the ship received new dining options, among other changes, in Portland, Oregon, as well as in 2018. Another dry dock was scheduled to take place in 2021, but, obviously, that dry dock was cancelled as the ship was sold for scrap in mid-2020.
Carnival Inspiration Venues
Many of the venues aboard Carnival Inspiration will feel familiar, if you’ve cruised on a Carnival ship in recent history (especially an older Carnival ship, that doesn’t have quite the same number of restaurants, bars and entertainment spaces).
Restaurant options on the ship included two main dining rooms, Mardi Gras and Carnivale. There was also the Lido buffet, a sushi bar, Guy’s Burger Joint (which was added in 2016) and BlueIguana Cantina (also added in 2016).
Blue Iguana Cantina
All of the restaurants aboard this ship were complimentary, with no specialty dining options. While this did mean fewer overall options, it was likely nice knowing that you could eat wherever you wanted on the ship and never pay extra.
(It’s worth noting that The Chef’s Table specialty dining option was offered on this ship, but that’s more of an event or experience than a true restaurant option.)
Photo: mariakray / Shutterstock.com
For thirsty cruisers in search of a drink, the ship offered its Rhapsody in Blue piano lounge, a promenade bar, Avant-Garde karaoke bar, Rock and Roll Nightclub, Chopin cigar bar and Candlelight Lounge and Bar. Several additional bars were added in 2016, including the RedFrog Rum Bar, Alchemy Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar.
Paris Theater Show Lounge on Carnival Inspiration (Photo Credit: mbarrison)
There was also a specialty coffee bar, Cafe des Artistes, aboard the ship, and Cherry on Top, selling candies and similar sweets.
For entertainment, the ship offered the standard cruise ship theater with nightly shows named the Paris Lounge, and a comedy club in one of the bars, as well as the Monte Carlo Casino. Other venues included the fitness center, Carnival WaterWorks water park, Serenity adults-only space, Spa Carnival and sports courts.
WaterWorks at Aft of the Ship (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
For the kiddos, Camp Carnival provided programming for the youngest cruisers, while Circle C provided programming geared toward pre-teens and Club 02 catered to the teenagers in your crew.
Classic family-friendly activities were plentiful, such as with the Seuss at Sea program, and family-friendly fun at the sports courts, such as with the mini golf course. An internet café was also available, as was an art gallery and 24-hour arcade.
Classic Decor
The décor aboard Carnival Inspiration was classic Carnival, with all the red, yellow and orange that was standard on the cruise line’s older ships. There was a distinct 90s flair, too, as could be seen in the ship’s neon-covered grand atrium, and in the blue-tiled pool areas, or in the 90s-carpeted kids’ areas (you know the 90s carpet we’re talking about).
Carnival Inspiration Atrium (Photo Credit: Bob n Renee)
Staterooms were distinctly red, orange and beige, with lots of warm woods and a budget hotel vibe. Even the nicer, larger suites, such as a junior suite or grand suite, did not offer an updated décor scheme or any large degree of luxury.
However, certain spaces took a more timeless approach, channeling the arts and historic styles, as could be seen in the library and some of the bars. Special features aimed to wow, such as the hundreds of electric candles in the Candelight Lounge, or the revolving piano in the piano bar.
Promenade Deck on Carnival Inspiration (Photo Credit: mbarrison)
Overall, the ship’s appearance and aesthetic were an indicator of its age, and severely outdated it, regardless of the fact that Carnival had updated the ship with new venues, restaurants and family-friendly perks. What the ship really needed was a major décor facelift.
Carnival Inspiration Scrapping
Possibly due solely to the ship’s age, maybe due to the COVID-19 pandemic that swept havoc across the cruising industry, or maybe due to a combination of both, in 2020, Carnival sold several ships, including Carnival Inspiration. Along with Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Inspiration headed for the scrapyard.
In the first leg of its last journey, Carnival Inspiration traveled to Brion Wharf in Willemstad, Curacao, in early July 2020, where many important items that were not fit for scrapping were removed. Then, the ship headed across the Atlantic Ocean, making way for Turkey and, finally, the ship-breaking facility in Aliaga.
Once there, the ship was beached on August 5, 2020, joining Carnival Fantasy and Sovereign of the Seas. Before beaching, Carnival took care to ensure that the ships would be dismantled and recycled responsibly. Partnerships with recycling companies guaranteed that the ships were dismantled in the most environmentally friendly ways possible, exceeding international standards.
As of today, the ships are entirely gone, with many of the ships’ materials having been repurposed, either on other ships, or in completely different uses altogether.
Carnival Inspiration FAQ
Did Carnival Inspiration have balcony rooms?
Carnival Inspiration did have balcony rooms, but unfortunately, only suites offered balconies. Suites options aboard Carnival Inspiration included the Junior Suite, Junior Suite with Obstructed View and Grand Suite.
Junior Suites offered sleeping arrangements for three, and deck seating for two, while the Grand Suites offered sleeping arrangements for five and a roomier deck, but still with seating for two.
Did the Carnival Inspiration have a movie theater?
While there was not a movie theater aboard Carnival Inspiration, there was a traditional theater. The main theater was called the Paris Lounge, which hosted day and evening shows and events, including musicals, games, and parties.
What class ship was the Carnival Inspiration?
Carnival Inspiration was a Fantasy-class cruise ship. The Fantasy class began with Carnival Fantasy, which entered service in 1990. There were a total of eight Fantasy-class cruise ships that sailed, including Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration, Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise. As of April 7, 2024, only the Carnival Paradise and Carnival Elation remain in service.
In a move to mitigate the impact of burgeoning cruise ship traffic, Juneau, Alaska, has reached a conceptual agreement with cruise lines to establish a daily passenger limit. The decision aims to safeguard the city’s quality of life while maintaining its status as a key cruise destination.
City and Cruise Lines Reach Tentative Accord
The City and Borough of Juneau and the cruise industry have negotiated a conceptual framework that could set a precedent for managing cruise passenger volumes.
Alaska Public Media reported the news was announced during a city assembly meeting, with Tourism Manager Alix Pierce highlighting the importance of this preliminary step.
“We do not have a preliminary agreement on MOA [Memorandum of Agreement] with specific numbers yet, but we have agreed to the concept of a daily limit MOA, which is an important step in the right direction,” she stated.
Juneau, Alaska Port (Photo Credit: YegoroV)
Juneau’s journey towards limiting cruise ship passenger numbers is in response to the record-breaking influx of 1.6 million visitors in the previous season, a 23% increase over pre-pandemic highs recorded in 2019. There is a projected increase in passenger numbers to reach 1.7 million in 2024, according to Rain Coast Data.
The city and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) have voluntarily imposed a cap of five ships per day for 2024. However, the negotiations have not pinpointed an exact daily passenger cap. Intentions are to reduce numbers below current figures, with a particular emphasis on making Saturdays the least-trafficked day.
The city is concurrently in discussion with cruise lines to tackle additional issues, such as “hot berthing,” which is the practice of having a ship use a berth for a short period before leaving and immediately being replaced by another ship. Downtown congestion improvements are also being discussed to enhance the visitor experience and resident life.
A Long Road Ahead for Juneau
Southeast Alaska currently has 660 cruises arriving in the 2024 season, which begins with the arrival of Norwegian Cruise Line’s 4,803-passenger Norwegian Bliss in Juneau on April 9. The 7-night “Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan” roundtrip voyage from Seattle will also visit Tracy Arm/Endicott Arm, Icy Strait Point, and Ketchikan, Alaska, before continuing to British Columbia.
Other large cruise lines arriving during the season include multiple ships and visits from Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Viking Oceans, and Seabourn.
Two ships docked in Juneau port. (Photo Credit: Jeff Whyte)
The last ship pulling into Juneau in 2024 will be the 2,376-passenger Norwegian Jewel from NCL on October 24.
Juneau is not the first Alaskan city to attempt to cap passengers disembarking from cruise ships. The popular call of Sitka, which has a population of about 8,500 people, attempted to limit passenger capacity to 240,000 per year.
Located 90 miles southeast of Juneau, Sitka received more than 550,000 cruise passengers during the 2023 season. The local government denied the citizen’s petition calling on the limit.
Similarly, across the nation, Bar Harbor, Maine, which has a population of about 5,000 people, fought to limit passenger disembarkation to 1,000 people a day. Residents of the town began working on the cap in 2022, with local businesses filing an appeal to stop the limitations.
In February 2024, the U.S. District Court for the District of Maine upheld the cap, which begins in the 2024 season, set to launch with the arrival of NCL’s 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem on May 2.
Multiple government agencies are now involved in an urgent search for a male cruise passenger missing from Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas. Brad Solomon debarked the ship while visiting Cozumel on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, but became separated from his family and did not return to the ship before departure.
As Solomon has a type of dementia and can struggle with communication, it is essential that he be found and authorities are searching with land, air, and sea resources in an attempt to locate the missing man as quickly as possible.
Elderly Guest Missing From World’s Largest Cruise Ship
Edmond Bradley Solomon and his family were enjoying a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise aboard Icon of the Seas, but when the ship visited Cozumel – the busiest cruise port in the Caribbean – Solomon became separated from his family members and did not return to the ship before departure.
The 66-year-old guest suffers from frontotemporal dementia with communication difficulties and struggles with complex processes. His wife, Mimi, notified the Cozumel police immediately after noticing her husband’s absence, and remained in Cozumel in a local hotel as the cruise ship departed, hoping to have word of her husband.
According to Mexico News Daily, a local taxi driver responded to alerts about Solomon’s disappearance, reporting that he had picked up a foreign tourist matching the man’s description.
Solomon hailed the taxi at roughly 2:30 p.m., on 65th Avenue – one of the community’s main streets but nearly a mile from the cruise ship berth. It is not known where Solomon was last seen with his family, whether they were still in the port welcome area or had moved further into the town.
Edmond Bradley Solomon
The taxi driver said Solomon claimed to have no money and instead traded his wristwatch for the cab fare to a beach. No information about where the driver may have dropped Solomon off has been released, but authorities have concentrated the initial efforts of their search in the La Pasión island region of Cozumel’s northern shore.
At the moment, the Municipal Police of Cozumel as well as other local agencies are involved in the intensive search efforts, including video surveillance resources in an attempt to locate Solomon. Alerts have also been sent out through social media to encourage community assistance.
Solomon was last seen wearing a white shirt and gray shorts, a blue cap, sunglasses, and white shoes. Family members have established a GoFundMe campaign to help with expenses for his wife as she remains in Cozumel during the search.
Why Did the Ship Leave?
Icon of the Seas departed Miami on Saturday, March 30 for the 7-night sailing, and had already visited Costa Maya and Roatan before stopping at Cozumel on Wednesday. There has been no delay to the ship’s itinerary, and the ship is scheduled to arrive back in Miami on Saturday, April 6.
The largest cruise ship in the world, the 248,663-gross-ton ship can welcome 5,610 guests at double occupancy, and up to 7,600 passengers when fully booked. During the busy spring break period from mid-March through mid-April, the ship is more likely to be fully booked.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: EQRoy)
Furthermore, at the time Solomon went missing, it was a busy day in Cozumel with five cruise ships in port. In addition to Icon of the Seas, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Ascent, Carnival Valor, and Norwegian Prima were all visiting the island.
Given the recent extensive media coverage of guests “left stranded” in Africa after failing to return to a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, Norwegian Dawn, by the published departure time, Solomon’s disappearance is sure to come under scrutiny as well.
It should be noted that Solomon was not on any type of shore tour, and was not in contact with the ship at the time he was reported missing. Because he suffers from dementia, he could easily become disoriented and distracted as to his location, how to get back to the ship, and even whom he was traveling with.
Lack of judgment, loss of inhibition, compulsive behaviors, trouble understanding and using spoken language, speech hesitation, and word forgetfulness are all symptoms of frontotemporal dementia, which Solomon suffers from. The extent of his condition has not been disclosed, but it could have contributed to his disappearance.
Cruise Hive’s thoughts are with Solomon and his family members at this distressing time, with the hopes that he is found safely very soon.
Carnival Cruise Line revealed the christening date for its newest ship, Carnival Firenze, and also announced that American stage and screen star Jonathan Bennett will serve as godfather during the April 24, 2024 ceremony at the Port of Long Beach (Los Angeles). The ship, the second in the line’s Carnival Fun Italian Style theme, will homeport in the Southern California destination.
Second Ship to Sail Under ‘Fun Italian Style’ Theme
It was an offer from Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy that film and stage actor Jonathan Bennett just couldn’t refuse. In a surprise appearance at Bennett’s rehearsal hall, Duffy asked the actor to serve as godfather to the line’s newest ship, Carnival Firenze, set to debut in late April 2024. He happily agreed.
Bennett is best known for his roles as Aaron Samuels in the 2004 comedy film “Mean Girls,” and as Bud McNulty in the movie “Cheaper by the Dozen 2.” He also was a host on the Food Network’s “Halloween Wars” and on “Cake Wars.” In January 2024, Bennett made his Broadway debut, performing in “Spamalot.”
“Jonathan is a true brand ambassador for Carnival. He cruises with us, honeymooned with us and tells his friends and family to vacation with Carnival. He is friendly and welcoming to everyone and embodies the Carnival style of fun,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
The actor had been aboard the inaugural voyage of Carnival Venezia in May 2023, when that ship was introduced as the first Carnival Fun Italian Style vessel. Both Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze formerly sailed under the Costa Cruises brand, and were transferred to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet. Both brands are owned by Carnival Corporation.
The interior designs of the line’s Fun Italian Style ships are inspired by Italian destinations — Florence for Carnival Firenze, and Venice for Carnival Venezia. Comedian Jay Leno was godfather to Carnival Venezia.
Carnival Firenze Godfather
Cruise Line President Duffy said Bennett was the perfect choice for the godfather of Carnival Firenze, even though he is not of Italian heritage.
“After he sailed on the first voyage of Carnival Firenze’s sister ship Carnival Venezia last May, he told me it would be his dream to be the godfather of one of our ships, so how could I turn down such a request for such a terrific friend to Carnival,” added Duffy.
The 5,000-guest Costa Firenzesailed her final voyage with Costa Cruises in January 2024, before undergoing a full renovation at a shipyard in Spain, where a slew of Carnival Cruise Line’s branded venues and amenities was added.
The ship, which entered service in 2021, is currently on her way to Long Beach, sailing a transatlantic voyage that has her calling at South American ports this week.
Jonathan Bennett Already Has Ties to Carnival
Aside from cruising with Carnival Cruise Line in the past, Bennett is familiar with the line and its executives from attending various events. He was the host, for instance, at the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration in New York, where Carnival Cruise Line has for the past three years been the sponsor of the iconic ball drop.
“This is an amazing honor and I’m so proud to know that I’ll always be a part of the Carnival Firenze family. When I told Christine that I’d love to be a Carnival cruise ship godfather, I never thought she’d take my request seriously,” said Jonathan Bennett.
“I’m so excited to not only be the ship’s godfather, but to also get to cruise on Carnival Firenze as a guest now that Carnival Fun Italian Style is coming to the West Coast,” Bennett added.
Following the ship’s naming ceremony, Carnival Firenze will depart on her first cruise under the Carnival Cruise Line brand on April 25, 2024. The 7-day Mexican Riviera sailing will call at Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The ship will offer year-round voyages, from 3 to 7 days, to Baja Mexico and the Mexican Riviera.
Carnival Venezia is based in New York and will deploy to Port Canaveral in December 2024.
Cruisers who are planning to sail onboard MSC World Europa and MSC Euribia in the next several months are in for a special treat. For the next six months, these ships will be offering specialties from globally renowned bars at sea through the “World’s Greatest Bars” program.
MSC Cruises Partners With Famous Bars For Special Pop-Up At Sea
Beginning earlier this week on April 1, 2024, two of MSC Cruises 23 ships began offering a unique mixology experience at sea. Known as the “World’s Greatest Bars” program, the experience will run onboard MSC World Europa and MSC Euribia until October 2024.
In an effort to enhance food and beverage offerings onboard, MSC cruises have partnered with world-renowned bars, such as Paradiso and Sips from Spain, to bring their most famous concoctions to the high seas. Maestros from the partnering bars personally trained the MSC bar teams, sharing the secrets and techniques that take their cocktails to the next level.
“We’re delighted to bring the ‘World’s Greatest Bars’ concept on board our ships to create world-class and innovative experiences for our guests. The new program brings our food and beverage offerings to new heights, providing unforgettable experiences not seen before at sea. We’re thrilled to have on board such exciting bars, Sips and Paradiso, two ranked as some of the best in the world,”said Jacques Van Staden, Food & Beverage Vice President at MSC Cruises.
“These two bars are incredibly hard to get into right now, so we’re so excited that our guests can get a taste of the action,”added Van Staden.
MSC World Europa will feature the Paradiso pop-up, while MSC Euribia will feature drinks from Sips – some of the most popular bars in Barcelona.
Giacomo Giannotti, owner of Paradioso Barcelona and Marc Álvarez, co-owner of Sips Barcelona
All year round, MSC’s ships also offer innovative concepts to elevate their culinary and beverage offerings. For example, MSC Euribia is home to the Helios Wine Bar, which is an immersive digital experience catered to wine lovers. The venue features 96 different types of wines and uses digital coasters to reveal the wine’s grape varieties and to share each bottle’s unique history.
Flavorful Sailings Onboard MSC World Europa and MSC Euribia
With the special “World’s Greatest Bars” program only taking place for six months, the clock is ticking for guests who want a taste of these extra special drinks. So, where can prospective cruisers join the ships?
MSC World Europa is currently sailing throughout the Western Mediterranean on a 7-night voyage that began in Palermo, Sicily, on April 2. The cruise will visit La Valletta, Malta; Barcelona, Spain; Marseille, France; Genoa, Italy; and Naples, Italy; before concluding in Messina, Sicily, on April 9.
MSC Euribia in Cadiz, Spain
For the duration of the program (and even into 2025), the 6,762-guest vessel will offer 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises, with embarkation ports alternating between Marseille, France; Barcelona, Spain; Naples, Italy; Genoa, Italy; and Messina, Sicily.
Meanwhile, MSC Euribia is offering a series of cruises throughout Northern Europe throughout the month of April, with sailings varying in length from 2 days to 14 days. But beginning on April 27, the 6,300-passenger ship will be offering a consistent series of 7-night itineraries throughout Northern Europe, which will be available until mid-October 2024.
Each cruise will either sail round-trip from Kiel, Germany, or Copenhagen, Denmark, and will call on Alesund, Norway; Nordfjordeid, Norway; and Flam, Norway. The 181,000-gross ton ship will also call on whichever port the cruise isn’t sailing from – so Kiel-based cruises will call on Copenhagen and vice versa.
Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked on Carnival Pride‘s unique 14-night Journeys cruise to Baltimore with an update about the ship’s anticipated arrival to the Port of Baltimore following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and the halt in marine traffic in the area.
The one-way repositioning cruise is departing Tampa, Florida on Sunday, April 7 and is scheduled to arrive in Baltimore, Maryland on Sunday, April 21 – less than one month after the bridge’s collapse.
Carnival Cruise Line Updates Travelers on Journeys Cruise
Guests setting sail on Carnival Pride from Tampa to Baltimore are understandably nervous about the likelihood of actually arriving in Baltimore as planned, given that the port remains closed at this time and no cruise ships are able to reach the cruise terminal.
Nevertheless, with Carnival Pride‘s anticipated arrival in Maryland still more than two weeks away, there is time for further progress that could permit the port to reopen. Meanwhile, Carnival Cruise Line is committed to keeping guests updated at all times.
“We remain in touch with port and federal officials as they work to reopen marine traffic in Baltimore Harbor,”an email dated Thursday, April 4 read.“Unfortunately we have no specific information yet about when that will happen.”
The email once more confirms that the cruise line will be providing complimentary bus service to all three major airports in the Washington, DC region – Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), Reagan National (DCA), and Dulles International (IAD).
“As we learn more, we will provide updates throughout the cruise,”the email reassured guests.“The team on board will work with you to arrange alternate post-cruise plans, if necessary. We realize you would prefer certainty and appreciate your understanding.”
Carnival Pride Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia / Shutterstock)
Guests with earlier flights on debarkation day – Sunday, April 21 – may want to proactively switch their flights to a later time or even move them to the following day if their schedules permit, just to ease any tension over the uncertainty of travel plans.
Prior to arriving in Baltimore – or Norfolk, Virginia if the Port of Baltimore is unable to open by April 21 – Carnival Pride will visit outstanding ports of call on her Journeys cruise, including Jamaica, Aruba, Curacao, Barbados, Antigua, and St. Maarten. At this time, there is no expected change to the ship’s itinerary, other than the possibility of debarking in Norfolk instead of Baltimore.
At 88,500 gross tons, the Spirit-class Carnival Pride can welcome 2,680 travelers at double occupancy, and is also home to nearly 900 international crew members.
Status of the Port of Baltimore
Following the complete collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after a collision from the container ship Dali, a 2,000-yard safety zone has been established around the bridge and no vessels may enter that zone without proper authorization. This is to ensure the safety of personnel working in the zone, as well as the integrity of the marine environment while debris is removed.
Cruise Ship in Baltimore, Maryland (Photo Credit: Port of Maryland)
“The Unified Command remains committed to re-opening the port while ensuring safety and environmental protection,”said U.S. Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Frank Schiano, Salvage Branch Director of the Key Bridge Response 2024.
Dive and salvage operations are continuing but there is not yet any resumption of marine traffic to the Port of Baltimore. The area of the collapse must be inspected, and any environmental contamination contained must be before intensive debris removal begins.
Inclement weather in recent days has slowed the recovery operations somewhat, but safety of all those involved in the efforts remains the top priority.
