With Carnival Luminosa just three weeks away from finishing her Australia season and relocating to Alaska, Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked on the 30-night sailing with guidelines for the unique cruise and an update on the ship’s planned call to Guam.
Because the cruise line’s Australia division has some different onboard regulations than for cruises in other parts of the world, it is important that travelers be aware of what to expect onboard so they are prepared to follow all sailing protocols.
Carnival Luminosa Preparing for Transpacific Repositioning
Carnival Luminosa is popular in Australia, offering a variety of getaways from Brisbane and visiting top destinations such as New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Airlie Beach, Cairns, Fiji, and more. The ship’s Australian season is nearly over, however, and – no fooling – on April 1, 2024 she will depart on a 30-night, one-way repositioning to Seattle.
Along the way, the ship will make amazing visits to destinations such as Guam, Japan, and Alaska – a relatively rare Asian itinerary that is highly sought after for cruise travelers.
Ahead of the sailing, Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to booked guests to alert them to some challenges in Guam – the very first port of call, scheduled for Monday, April 8 – as well as onboard policies for the duration of the cruise.
Challenges for Sightseeing in Guam
Guam is a bucket-list destination for cruise travelers looking for unique places to visit. Carnival wants to be sure that all passengers are aware of some possible challenges when visiting the port, however.
Most notably, the Guam cruise port – where Carnival Luminosa will be docked – is about two miles from the town. Complimentary shuttles will be available, but may be challenging for guests with mobility difficulties.
“Regrettably, the shuttles are not fully accessible, and it will be necessary for guests with mobility limitations to take steps to get on and off,”the notification read.“Additionally, any mobility device must be collapsible in order to be brought aboard a shuttle.”
This follows Carnival Cruise Line’s recent crackdown on oversized mobility scooters. While travelers are welcome to bring mobility scooters onboard, all scooters must fit safely within guests’ staterooms and may not be left parked in corridors or public areas.
Carnival Luminosa (Photo Credit: Ian Dewar Photography)
The cruise line is simply ensuring that guests are aware of the policy so there are no unpleasant surprises when visiting Guam, if larger scooters are not able to fit on shuttles from the dock.
Furthermore, no Carnival shore excursions are available in Guam. Guests will be able to debark to explore on their own, but there will be no official tours. The ship is scheduled to be in port in Guam from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“In the event you will be staying on board when we visit Guam, our team will have activities and entertainment for you to enjoy,”the email said.
Cruise Paperwork Requirements
The lengthy email from Carnival Cruise Line also addressed what paperwork guests need for sailing. It’s not like some cruises, where a guest can just use their valid Permanent Resident Card.
“All guests (including infants) must carry a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the cruise ends,”the email explained.
Furthermore, specific visa requirements for Japan will vary depending on each guest’s nationality. The ship has five port stops in Japan: Okinawa, Hiroshima, Yokohama, Aomori City, and Sapporo-Otaru. This is an amazing section of the itinerary and a fantastic way for travelers to explore Japan.
Other visas and ETSA documentation may also be necessary for travelers to enter the US – which is when the ship reaches the US territory of Guam. It is critical that travelers are aware of all requirements and secure all necessary paperwork before embarkation.
“Please note that a printed copy of the ESTA approval or US visa will be required for immigration clearance for our visit to Guam,”the email stated.
“While we will do our best to provide you with as much information as possible, guests are responsible for complying with all travel and documentation requirements,”the email stated.“Unfortunately, guests who do not have the required documentation will not be able to sail and no compensation will be provided.”
Onboard Policies
As the 2,260-passenger Carnival Luminosa will be transitioning from an Australian sailing to a US sailing on this transpacific cruise, it can be challenging to know what onboard protocols apply. The email also covered key points of concern to guests.
For example, the onboard smoking policy from the time the ship enters international waters will be the same as the US smoking policy, with designated areas for smoking onboard. This includes cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vaping.
The onboard drinking age will be 21 years old for the entire sailing, despite the fact that the legal drinking age in Australia is 18. Guests should be prepared with US currency onboard, either cash or credit, for transactions and tipping as desired.
The onboard recommended gratuities will also align with US rates at $16 for standard staterooms and $18 for suites per guest, per day, and can be adjusted at guests’ discretion.
With the lengthy email, Carnival Cruise Line is hoping all passengers are prepared for what is sure to be an amazing Carnival Journeys cruise and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone aboard.
While most people who work and vacation on cruise ships are there to have a good time, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of one’s surroundings. One TikToker has plenty of tips to keep cruisers safe, especially for women and solo travelers.
How To Stay Safe On Cruise Ships
Cruising is generally one of the safest forms of travel. With surveillance cameras in most public spaces and professional security teams onboard, cruise lines actively work to keep their guests safe. Even so, it still doesn’t mean passengers should let their guard down completely.
Luckily, Victoria from @victorias.wayon TikTok posts tips to keep travelers safe. While her advice is primarily targeted at the women and solo travelers among her 155.8K followers, it can be useful for anyone who feels the need to take extra precautions – both on land and at sea.
One of her most popular cruise safety videos, which was posted on February 17, 2024, has been viewed nearly 29 million times. In the video, which was filmed on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Victoria takes her followers through her nighttime routine before going to bed.
First, the influencer makes sure no unwanted visitors can break in while she’s sleeping. In addition to putting the “do not disturb” sign out and locking the door, she also closes the peep hole and makes a back-up lock uses hangers and towels from her stateroom.
She then installs a doorstop alarm, a wireless security camera, and pushes a heavy piece of furniture against the door. After a final check of her surroundings from her cabin’s balcony, Victoria closes the curtains with clips for extra security before calling it a night.
Earlier in 2024, Victoria also went viral for sharing her safety routine to keep unwanted guests out of her cruise cabin on a newer MSC cruise ship, earning over 18 million views.
That said, some think that Victoria’s methods are a bit too over-the-top, often questioning how quickly she could exit her cabin if there was an emergency.
“No Way. If I have to get out quickly in an emergency this would be horrible,” wrote one TikToker.
“I work on a cruise ship and have never felt safer when I sleep. 24 hour security 24/7 versus when I’m home alone,” commented another.
Ultimately, Victoria’s tips come down to staying aware of one’s surroundings, which is important to do no matter how many precautions guests feel they need to take.
Arrest Made On Symphony of the Seas
On March 2, 2024, Victoria posted a video of how she stayed safe on the last night of her cruise onboard Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas. The video, which has been viewed over 5 million times in less than a week, was posted one day before a shocking arrest was made onboard the 5,518-passenger Oasis-class ship.
Considering the timing of Victoria’s video, it’s quite likely she was onboard the same 8-Night Southern Caribbean sailing in which Mirasol was apprehended after another passenger found one of his alleged hidden cameras in her stateroom.
It also makes the topic of her video, which is all about how to keep unwanted visitors out of your cruise cabin, extra relevant.
In the video, the influencer again shows how she barricades her door, but adds a new tip. She puts a coin on the door handle so she can quickly see if someone opened the door without her knowledge.
She also shares the safety devices she keeps closeby on her bedside table in case someone were to break in, such as a flashlight, small safety alarm, and pepper spray.
Even more recently, Victoria posted another video with more cruise safety advice on Thursday, March 7, 2024. In the few days since the video was shared, it has been viewed almost 30,000 times.
The video highlights little details about staying safe that excited travelers might forget about, such as storing money and valuables in the typically provided safe.
Even though housekeepers likely did a thorough cleaning, Victoria also does her own quick wipe down of commonly used surfaces and appliances, such as door handles and the phone.
In a slightly darker turn, the TikToker also places her thumbprint on the wall, leaving a small smudge. She does this in order to leave a piece of her DNA behind for investigators to find in the unlikely event she was kidnapped, or something similar occurred.
While the recent arrest onboard Symphony of the Seas shows that anything can happen anywhere, incidents like that are few and far between on cruise ships. TikTokers like Victoria try to prepare their followers for the unexpected – but how many precautions to take is up to each traveler and their individual comfort levels.
Honolulu Cruise Port, also known as the Port of Honolulu, is situated in the heart of Hawaii’s picturesque capital city of Honolulu. Given its central location within the city, it is no wonder it is a port of call and departure for numerous cruise lines.
We will take an in-depth look at the popular port. In doing so, we will explain everything cruise passengers need to know about the two terminals and the surrounding sights and attractions.
As we will discover, Honolulu and the cruise port that bears its name can act as the gateway to the stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture the Hawaiian Islands offer.
From detailed explanations of port facilities to transportation options and nearby sights and attractions, it’s time to uncover all the details you need to know about the Honolulu Cruise Port.
As mentioned, the Honolulu Cruise Port is conveniently located in central Honolulu, so there is no shortage of nearby accommodations for those booking cruises that depart from Hawaii. To add to the convenience fact, the city’s primary airport is located approximately 6 miles northwest of the cruise ship terminals.
With major highways connecting Honolulu International Airport to the city, most cruise passengers can expect an average travel time of about 20 to 30 minutes by car. With that said, traffic can be an issue if you arrive during rush hour (3 PM to 6 PM local time).
Given the popularity of Hawaiian cruises, access to cruise port terminals from the airport is fairly simple and affordable. With taxis charging flat rates, lines for various rideshare services, and a well-marked shuttle providingdedicated transportation to cruise line terminals and local hotels, accessibility is impressive.
Honolulu Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Steve Bower)
Directions are straightforward for traveling to the port from parts of the city other than the airport. Major arteries, like Nimitz Highway and Ala Moana Boulevard, have clear signage that directs travelers to the Honolulu Port.
When traveling from the cruise port to Honolulu’s main hotel zones in Waikiki, Kahala, and Turtle Bay, various transportation shuttle operators make things easy. These same services can also drop passengers off at their cruise pier before departure.
Port of Honolulu Cruise Lines
Given that Hawaii is such a popular vacation destination and departure point for cruises, the Honolulu Cruise Port is a busy hub for some of the most well-known cruise lines. The following prominent cruise lines, as well as others, make use of the port:
Norwegian Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean
Princess Cruises
Carnival Cruise Line
Holland America Line
Celebrity Cruises
With so many cruise lines using Honolulu Cruise Port, those booking Hawaiian cruise vacations will have plenty of itineraries, ships, and departure dates to choose from.
Terminal Locations and Departure Information
The Port of Honolulu featurestwo dedicated cruise ship terminals. The primary cruise ship terminal where most ships will depart is located at Pier 2 (521 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu), located along the west side of Channel Street, just off Ala Moana Boulevard.
Cruise Ship Docked in Honolulu, Hawaii (Photo Credit: SvetlanaSF)
The alternate cruise ship terminal, which tends to be used by some of the smaller cruise lines, is located at Pier 11 (23 Aloha Tower Drive, Honolulu), located on the north extension of Aloha Tower Drive.
When navigating the port, you should always know where your cruise ship is departing from. You can keep an eye on theHonolulu Port Traffic Schedule, but you should always pay close attention to announcements from your respective cruise line by checking emails and app notifications.
Terminal Facilities and Services
Honolulu Cruise Port’s two cruise terminals feature modern and well-equipped facilities. With free public Wi-Fi, it is easy to watch boarding announcements from your cruise line app as you await departure. If you can’t access Wi-Fi at either of the piers, Aloha Marketplace also offers free Wi-Fi, and it is located near Pier 11.
Cruise Ship at the Honolulu Cruise Terminal (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
There are also ample long-term and short-term parking options and well-marked drop-off and pickup zones for those taking cabs and rideshare vehicles to and from the port. Both cruise terminals are also wheelchair accessible and feature ample bathroom facilities, ensuring a seamless experience for all cruise passengers. If you find yourself waiting, plenty of seating is available at both terminals.
If you are lucky enough to arrive or depart at the right time, you might even be treated to Hawaiian dancers and an offering of a traditional lei necklace!
Weather Conditions and Seasonal Considerations
Now that you know a bit more about the cruise port in Honolulu, let’s explore some details about visiting Honolulu as part of a cruise vacation.
As with any cruise, weather can vary from season to season, so it’s important to consider average temperatures and weather patterns if you plan to enjoy a cruise that will involve departing from or stopping at the Honolulu cruise terminals.
Photo Credit: Rattanapon Ninlapoom / Shutterstock
To make things easy, here are some of the main seasonal weather conditions you should be aware of when booking your trip:
Summer Season (June to August)
The summer months in Honolulu tend to be warm and relatively humid. Light to medium showers can be an issue when the humidity builds to a high enough level, but they also tend to be fairly brief.
When packing for Honolulu in the summer and Hawaii more generally, we recommend lightweight, breathable clothing. While you should be prepared for possible rain showers, you can check local weather forecasts to know if you should bring a rain jacket.
Fall Season (September to November)
Fall in Honolulu brings pleasant weather. Slightly cooler temperatures and lower humidity make fall a comfortable time to explore the city and the surrounding attractions. If you are visiting during these months, plan outdoor adventures and recreational activities if you have the time to do so.
Winter Season (December to February)
As you’d expect, the winter months are cooler in Honolulu but still warm compared to most of continental America. While the air temperature is cooler, there is also less frequent rainfall in the winter, so you can usually get away with a light sweater or jacket.
Spring Season (March to May)
Milder temperatures and minimal rainfall make this an ideal time to explore the island’s natural beauty. It is also when most of Hawaii’s famed flora blooms, making it the perfect time of year to hike, see the sights, and take photographs.
Nearby Amenities and Attractions
While the pleasant weather and natural beauty offered by Hawaii speak for themselves, one of the main highlights of visiting the Port of Honolulu is its proximity to some truly incredible attractions.
Cruise Port Area in Hawaii (Photo Credit: Theodore Trimmer)
While some are within reasonable walking distance, others are just a short drive or shuttle ride away. From nearby pristine beaches to historic landmarks, here are just some of the highlights:
Pearl Harbor and WWII Memorials
History buffs won’t want to miss the opportunity to visit one of the most iconic American Second World War II sites. Pearl Harbor is located just 8 miles away from Honolulu’s Pier 2 Cruise Ship Terminal, so it is very easy to visit.
Beyond being a touching setting, Pearl Harbor is home to poignant memorials, like the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship USS Missouri Memorial, which acts as a well-preserved floating museum.
Waikiki Beach
Just over 3 miles from the port, you can find the picturesque Waikiki Beach. With turquoise waters, gold sand, and a tropical backdrop, it’s the perfect place to take a beach stroll, soak up the sun, or take a swim. The tropical waters teem with marine life, so it’s ideal for snorkeling. You may even spot sea turtles and dolphins!
Waikiki Beach (Photo Credit: bjlopez)
With plenty of opportunities to try out some surf lessons, as well as enjoy other water sports, there’s plenty to do along Waikiki Beach!
Iolani Palace
For those looking for an attraction within walking distance, Iolani Palace is roughly 1 mile away in downtown Honolulu. The palace acts as a memorial to Hawaii’s royal family.
It also happens to be the only royal estate on American soil. Visitors can explore the historic interior, manicured gardens, and artifacts of Hawaii’s unique past.
Polynesian Cultural Center
If you want to learn more about Hawaii’s rich culture and traditions, the Polynesian Cultural Center is on the other side of Oahu. While this means it’s roughly a 1-hour drive away, the immersive tribute to Hawaii’s Polynesian roots is well worth the visit.
Polynesian Cultural Center (Photo Credit: Scalia Media)
In addition to Waikiki Beach, the port is situated close to several other tourist-friendly beaches.
Ala Moana Beach Park
This beach is located within walking distance of the cruise terminals. At a distance of just 1.8 miles from the port, this 100-acre beach park is easy to make time for.
Kaimana Beach
The golden sands and shallow waters of Kaimana Beach are ideal for those looking to snorkel or try their hand at surfing lessons. It’s also a great place to kick back and relax. At a 3.5-mile distance from the cruise port, it’s possible to walk, but many will take an affordable taxi to save time.
Kaimana Beach (Photo Credit: Eric Broder Van Dyke)
Hanauma Bay Beach
This beachfront also serves as anature preserve and protected marine conservation area, offering views of a pristine Hawaiian landscape and marine ecosystem. It’s about 13 miles from the cruise ports, but worth a visit if you have the time.
Nearby Dining and Shopping
No matter how much time you have in Honolulu, you need to sample the traditional Hawaiian dishes near the Honolulu Cruise Port.
Dining
Thanks to its proximity to downtown Honolulu, the cruise port is close to plenty of restaurants and bars serving Hawaiian classics, like fresh seafood, poke bowls, smoothies, laulau, poi, and more! If you’re short on time, we recommend trying a few local sample dishes available from street food vendors.
Chinatown Near the Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Page Light Studios)
Shopping
There are also many shopping options just outside the cruise port. From upscale stores offering the latest designer goods to open-air markets offering local souvenirs, you’ll find precisely what you are looking for nearby.
Oahu Market, Fort Street Mall, and the Fort Street Open Market are all great options, but the top choice has to be Aloha Tower Marketplace, which is just 1 mile away from the cruise terminals.
Excursion and Activity Options
Cruise passengers briefly visiting Honolulu Cruise Port may be interested in some of the many excursions and day activities available.
Water Sports
Given the tropical waters surrounding Honolulu, the area caters to those hoping to enjoy water sports. Snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, jet skiing, and more are all available as excursion offers through all major cruise lines.
Surfing in Honolulu (Photo Credit: image_vulture)
Helicopter Tours
A helicopter tour is one of the best ways to take in Oahu’s stunning landscapes. View this beautiful island from above by checking if your cruise line is partnered with any local helicopter tour excursion providers.
Hiking and Beach Shuttles
For a tamer way to see Oahu, consider a guided hike through the scenic trails, or simply book a shuttle that will provide transportation to and from one of the area’s many beaches.
Beach Shuttles (Photo Credit: Jeff Whyte)
Cultural Experiences
For those wanting to see what makes Hawaii so unique, consider a cultural excursion experience. Learn the hula dance, take ukulele lessons, or even book a Hawaiian cooking class. Local excursion providers offer all of these experiences and more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where do the cruise ships dock in Honolulu?
Cruise ships typically dock at Honolulu Harbor along one of two piers. The port is located along the coast of downtown Honolulu and sits adjacent toAloha Tower Marketplace, so it is in a prime location for those hoping to enjoy the city before boarding their cruise ship.
How far is Waikiki Beach from the cruise terminal?
Waikiki Beach is located roughly 3 miles southeast of the main cruise terminals. This means you can expect an average travel time of about 10 to 15 minutes if you travel by taxi or shuttle.
Is there a shuttle from Honolulu Airport to the cruise port?
Yes, there are dedicated shuttle services from the airport to the cruise port, but most are tied to specific cruise lines. Check with your cruise line beforehand to see if transportation is provided. If not, there are plenty of taxis and rideshare services available to those looking to go directly from the airport to the Honolulu Cruise Port.
As spring draws closer and daylight hours get longer, Carnival Corporation & plc has unveiled a new solar park at Amber Cove that has enough capacity to supply most of the cruise center’s energy needs.
This is a great step toward further environmental sustainability and highlights the company’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty of its destinations.
New Solar Park at Amber Cove
Carnival celebrated the ribbon cutting for its new solar park at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic on Friday, March 8, 2024 – less than two weeks before the spring equinox.
The park features more than 1,800 solar panels that will ultimately supply 80% of the energy used at the 25-acre cruise port, and is the first installation of its kind with such close ties to major cruise lines.
This will dramatically reduce the port’s reliance on fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants and helping preserve the natural beauty of the region, which all guests enjoy when they visit the richly vibrant port of call.
“As we bring guests to enjoy the beauty and rich culture of the Dominican Republic, we also take our environmental stewardship here and everywhere we visit very seriously,”said Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line president.“With this new solar park in Amber Cove, we are furthering our commitment to sustainability at our destinations by focusing on renewable energy sources to power the vast majority of the port’s needs.”
Also in attendance for the momentous occasion were other local and industry officials as well as Carnival executives.
Opening Ceremony of Solar Park
“On behalf of the Government, we celebrate this achievement, which makes Amber Cove the first cruise terminal in the country with a project of this scale,”said Joel Santos, minister of the presidency of the Dominican Republic.“This project will undoubtedly contribute to the production of clean energy and environmental sustainability in Puerto Plata, the first tourist destination in the Dominican Republic.”
The 133,596-gross-ton, Vista-class Carnival Horizon was visiting Amber Cove on Friday, but the event was not a public occasion. Carnival Vista, Carnival Celebration, and Mardi Gras will all be visiting the popular destination in the next few days, and will be the first vessels to be enjoying the cleaner power for lighting, sound systems, and overall operations.
How Much Energy Will Be Saved?
When the full solar park is operating at peak efficiency and the port is bustling, overall greenhouse gas emissions are expected to be reduced by approximately 1,000 tons per year. This is the equivalent to planting more than 30,000 trees.
Carnival Cruise Ship at Amber Cove (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
Since it first opened in 2015, Amber Cove has welcomed more than 3.6 million guests. As ships get larger and cruise travel popularity continues to grow, more and more passengers will be visiting the destination, and the use of the solar park will ensure Amber Cove remains as pristine and lovely for future visitors as it is today.
Carnival’s Other Environmental Initiatives
The opening of the solar park at Amber Cove is just the latest in sustainability initiatives Carnival Corporation & plc has implemented.
Many behind-the-scenes steps have been taken, for example, to upgrade the company’s cruise ships across the various cruise lines so they can operate more efficiently. This includes upgrades in lighting and HVAC systems onboard, hull designs and coatings that reduce friction, using shoreside power where possible, and committing to liquefied natural gas vessels.
Onboard waste has also been addressed in recent years with the elimination of plastic straws and other single-use plastics, steps taken to reduce food waste, and other small measures that add up to tremendous efforts.
Ultimately, Carnival Corporation & plc’s 2030 emission reduction goals are closer than many people realize, goals that will preserve and protect marine environments, ports of call, and the beauty of cruising for generations to come.
Working closely with Royal Caribbean Group, the Seward Company has revealed its plans for a new cruise terminal in the Port of Seward in Alaska. Seward, deemed the gateway to Kenai Fjords, will welcome the new terminal by spring 2026.
Transformative Project Now Underway
The Seward Company has announced ambitious plans to transform the Port of Seward, Alaska, by constructing a new, state-of-the-art cruise terminal and pier by early 2026.
Breaking ground immediately, the Seward Company will replace the existing Alaska Railroad cruise port facility with a modern structure designed to accommodate the largest cruise ships in the region, including Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class ships.
“Maximizing the 13 acres of upland space, the integrated transportation hub, terminal building and double-berth pier are designed to streamline the boarding experience while simplifying the operational requirements of a full-service port,” said the Seward Company.
Modernizing Seward’s Port
The current Alaska Railroad cruise port, constructed in 1965, is deemed obsolete. The 2023 Freight Traffic Study highlighted the urgent need for replacement, citing the degradation of the port’s supporting structures.
Currently equipped with a 736-foot dock, the Port of Seward says the “passenger dock is only occasionally used for light freight and logistics.”
New Seward Cruise Terminal
The Seward Company’s plans include the erection of a 41,500-square-foot cruise terminal and the addition of a floating double berth pier, measuring 748 feet in length and 100 feet in width. The pier will be able to support simultaneous docking of two vessels at the same time.
The floating berth is being designed to accommodate Alaska’s extreme tides and will include a 200-foot-long split-transfer to facilitate embarkation and debarkation.
The world-class port will also feature a parking lot with 32 bus stalls and 48 car spaces. Turnagain Marine will oversee the engineering, design, and construction of the project, which will total $137 million.
Upgrade Suitable for Quantum-Class Ships
Royal Caribbean, the key cruise line behind the port renovation and expansion, will be able to accommodate its Quantum-class ships at the new port which can accommodate up to 4,100 passengers.
Currently, Royal Caribbean is operating a number of Alaska sailings for 2024 and 2025.
Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, andBrilliance of the Seas are slated to sail in Alaska throughout the summer 2024 and 2025 season, with departures from Seattle, Washington, and Vancouver, British Columbia. Anthem of the Seas will make her debut in the region in 2025.
Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Seabourn Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line also offer Alaskan itineraries.
The new cruise port opens the opportunity for more passengers to visit a newer destination in the “Last Frontier,” which is seeing a spike in travelers arriving via cruise ship. The state expects to bring in more than 1.65 million passengers in 2024 via the various cruise lines who have added the picturesque state to its voyages.
CLIA, the Cruise Line International Association, reported that around 60% of summer visitors to the state arrive via cruise and direct visitor spending totals nearly $2.2 billion a year. CLIA reported the figure increases to $3.7 billion when factoring in labor, bringing the total economic impact to $4.5 billion.
The port is adjacent to the Alaska Railroad and Seward Highway, with shuttles to Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage, making it a call that can lead to more internal explorations of Alaska.
However, already well-established ports are concerned about the size of ships docking in its harbors. Residents of Sitka, Alaska, for example, have created petitions to limit the number of ships and passengers calling. Residents of Seward are watching the updates with anticipation.
In light of the tension in Haiti following a recent prison break and months of escalating violence, Cruise Hive reached out to Royal Caribbean International about guests’ safety at the cruise line’s private destination in Haiti, Labadee.
The cruise line has provided a statement and explained their concerns, as well as steps that are being taken to ensure all guests are safe and can enjoy their visit to Labadee.
Are Guests to Labadee at Risk When Visiting Haiti?
Labadee is Royal Caribbean International’s private 260-acre resort destination on the north coast of Haiti. Unlike many other private destinations that are actually on distinct islands, Labadee is on the nation’s mainland.
This has sparked concern among travelers that the recent violence – a coordinated prison break that freed nearly 4,000 criminals in the nation’s capital, Port-au-Prince – could cause difficulties for cruise travel, either in terms of guests’ safety while visiting Labadee or with cancelled sailings or replacement ports of call to avoid Haiti altogether.
Cruise Hive reached out to Royal Caribbean International to inquire about the cruise line’s plans, and received a statement about safety concerns and how operations on Haiti are being handled.
“The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. Our global security teams are closely monitoring the situation in the area,”the statement read.“At all times, we remind guests to remain aware of their surroundings while ashore and follow all State Department guidelines. Should any changes be required, guests will be notified directly.”
Photo Credit: NAN728 / Shutterstock.com
Royal Caribbean also notes that “the civil unrest in Port-au-Prince is 128 miles south of our private destination” which equates to a 6.5 hour drive on the nation’s roads and through the mountains.
Because Labadee is a private destination, only cruise guests and approximately 300 employees are permitted at the location. The cruise line also has private security to ensure limited access to Labadee, and the facility is completely gated.
“Guests visiting Labadee are not permitted to leave the resort at any time, for their safety and comfort,”the cruise line said.“In the meantime, we’re continuing to monitor the situation very closely with local authorities and our security team.”
All operations at Labadee are fully functional and available to all guests visiting the fun and engaging port of call. This includes the exciting Dragon Zipline, the Dragon’s Tail coaster, amazing beaches, the Artisan’s Market retail spaces, watersport options, paved walking trails, and much more.
Due to the security restrictions for Labadee – which have always been in place and are not as a result of the recent tension – no shore excursions venture into Haiti from the port. Tour options are available for such great on-site experiences as sport fishing, snorkeling, luxury sailing, and more.
No Visits Cancelled
Royal Caribbean International has confirmed that there are no changes to upcoming cruise itineraries.
“We have not canceled any calls or sailings visiting Labadee at this time,”the cruise line said.“Should anything change regarding our visits to Labadee, we’ll contact any impacted guests and travel agents immediately.”
While the port of call is not visited on a daily basis, several ships do have calls on Labadee planned for the coming days: Independence of the Seas (March 9), Adventure of the Seas (March 12), Liberty of the Seas (March 13), Oasis of the Seas (March 14), and Symphony of the Seas (March 15).
Labadee is often part of Royal Caribbean’s various Caribbean cruises, including Eastern, Western, and Southern routes, depending on the cruise length, departure port, and overall itinerary.
The New York City Council has approved landmark legislation aimed at reducing emissions from cruise ships docked at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal and the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.
The new law will require ships to utilize shoreside power connections where available, but what about cruise ships not yet updated to access a local power grid?
Lawmakers Aim to Cut Emissions From Docked Ships in NYC
In a unanimous vote on March 7, 2024, members of the New York City Council voted to pass legislation titled “Introduction 4-A, Our Air Our Water Act,” designed to significantly cut harmful emissions from cruise ships docked with engines running at the Brooklyn and Manhattan cruise terminals.
Without a shoreside power source, cruise ships must keep engines running to operate hotel services while docked, causing harmful emissions from fossil fuels. More ships are being outfitted with shoreside power technology, but there is still a long way to go before all cruise vessels have the capability. The Cruise Lines International Association has a stated goal of a net-zero carbon industry by 2050.
The text of the legislation reads: “This bill would alter the terms of the contract between the city and the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) by requiring EDC to compel cruise terminal operators to require cruise ships with shore power capability to connect to shore power systems when docked, whenever shore power is available, and it is safe and practicable to do so.”
The key phrase is “require cruise ships with shore power capability,” because the bill’s text does not indicate any mandate for ships that are not equipped for shoreside connections. Moreover, the Manhattan Cruise Terminal has not been updated with any shore power capabilities, so cruise ships docking there cannot hook into the local grid even if they have the technology to do so.
The Manhattan Terminal is the bigger of the two, and serves Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Seabourn Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Oceania Cruises, among others.
Cruise Ship Docked in New York City (Photo Credit: lucasImages / Shutterstock)
The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, which serves Cunard and Princess Cruises, was outfitted with a shoreside power source for cruise ships in 2017, but the connections are not always used because the sockets the terminal installed are not compatible with all cruise ships.
These impediments to a full utilization of shoreside power would have to be removed before any meaningful level of emissions reduction can be achieved. Still, the New York City Council appears to see the passage of the legislation as a step forward.
“Today, the Council is passing critical legislation to protect and support residents who live in communities surrounding our city’s terminals,” New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams said.
“By requiring cruise ships to connect to shore power, this law will limit harmful emissions and mitigate pollution, noise, and other impacts on local neighborhoods,” Adams added.
The bill was introduced by Council members Alexa Avilés, who represents Brooklyn, and Erik Bottcher, representing Manhattan.
New Law Also Targets Local Traffic From Cruise Guests
In addition to addressing engine emissions at the docks of two cruise terminals, the legislation has a traffic component, requiring that the EDC create and update traffic mitigation plans in the neighborhoods around each terminal.
The plans will provide strategies to cut pollution, noise, and “other disruptions” caused by cruise passenger transits to and from the cruise terminals.
Carnival Venezia in New York (Photo Credit: Mariusz Lopusiewicz)
The bill, which sat for several months in the Council’s Committee on Economic Development, appeared to gain steam in February 2023. It was approved by the committee the same day that the full Council passed it.
“This is a community-led victory that’s been years in the making, a step toward righting historical wrongs, and I’m grateful to play a part in its passage,” said Council member and bill sponsor Alexa Aviles.
“With our air and water at stake, I remain committed to putting community health needs over the corporate greed of the cruise ship industry and last mile polluters. This fight is far from over,” said Aviles.
The legislation does not make clear the Council’s policy regarding ships that are not equipped with shoreside power connections, nor does it indicate an effective date for implementation of the mandate.
The government of Haiti declared a national state of emergency on Sunday, March 3, 2024 after a massive prison break involving thousands of inmates who are now escaped.
The tense situation has cruise travelers concerned about whether or not itineraries that include Haiti might be altered, but no cruise line has yet confirmed adjustments to remove ports of call in Haiti or in the Dominican Republic, as the two nations share the island of Hispaniola.
Escalating Crime and Prison Break in Haiti
Crime and violence has been on the rise in Haiti for some time, along with increased gang activity. This culminated in a massive prison break on Saturday, March 2, 2024 when gangs descended on two prisons – the National Penitentiary in Port-Au-Prince as well as a nearby jail facility in Croix des Bouquet.
In total, anywhere from 3,500-4,000 prisoners or more are believed to have escaped, though exact numbers are not able to be verified, due to the lawlessness of the situation. Among the escaped prisoners are murderers, kidnappers, and other types of violent criminals.
In July 2023, the US Department of State elevated the travel advisory level for Haiti to Level 4: Do Not Travel – the highest warning level available. Violent crime, kidnapping, and civil unrest were all cited as reasoning for the advisory. Following the prison break, US citizens in Haiti were advised to depart the country as soon as possible.
What About Cruises to Haiti?
Only one cruise destination is found in Haiti – Labadee, a private destination for Royal Caribbean International. Labadee is on the nation’s northern coast, roughly 125 miles (200 kilometers) from Port-Au-Prince.
Labadee is not a private island, but rather a private development on the mainland. While it surrounded by fencing and security, it would not be impossible for the destination to have trouble with criminals. At this time, however, there are no confirmed reports that any gang-related violence is moving toward the cruise destination, or that travelers are at elevated risk in visiting Labadee.
Allure of the Seas in Labadee (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock)
At the moment, there have been no itinerary changes for ships scheduled to call on Labadee, though such changes may always be made as last-minute decisions en route as the most current situation is assessed.
In the next few days, several Royal Caribbean ships are scheduled for calls on Labadee, including Independence of the Seas (March 9), Adventure of the Seas (March 12), Liberty of the Seas (March 13), Oasis of the Seas (March 14), and Symphony of the Seas (March 15). Additional ships have calls scheduled throughout the month, and vessels visit the private port throughout the year.
It is possible that Royal Caribbean may adjust some itineraries for ships to visit CocoCay in The Bahamas in lieu of Labadee, but such decisions would depend on each ship’s itinerary and what the individual port schedules may be.
The Dominican Republic Is Nearby
Because Haiti and the Dominican Republic are both on the island of Hispaniola, cruise travelers visiting popular Dominican Republic ports are also showing concern about the rising violence in the adjacent nation.
It should be noted, however, that the top cruise ports in the Dominican Republic – Amber Cove and Puerto Plata – are 215-310 miles (350-500 kilometers) from Port-Au-Prince, depending on the route traveled.
A variety of ships from different cruise lines call on the ports in the Dominican Republic, including Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean International, and more.
Dominican Republic Cruise (Photo Courtesy: Dominican Port Authority)
At the moment, no cruise line has adjusted itineraries for the Dominican Republic due to the violence in Haiti. Cruise travelers with sailings to any of the ports on Hispaniola will want to stay in close contact with their cruise line to be immediately updated should there be any itinerary modifications.
All cruise lines do reserve the right to change or cancel port visits for any reason, including war, hostilities, national emergencies, and general safety.
For example, many cruise lines dropped visits to Russia when tensions with Ukraine escalated in early 2022, and likewise, ceased calls to Israel following the violence in October 2023.
Virgin Voyages introduces the “Scarlet Summer Season Pass,” offering travelers exclusive access to Mediterranean voyages aboard the Scarlet Lady for a distinctive work-from-home alternative.
Sail and Work Across the Mediterranean
In yet another unique marketing scheme by Virgin Voyages, the cruise line is inviting adventure enthusiasts and remote workers to embark on a month-long cruise across the Mediterranean with the unveiling of its “Scarlet Summer Season Pass.”
Available for four separate sailings in June, July, August, and September 2024, aboard the 2,770-passenger, 110,000-gross-ton Scarlet Lady, cruisers can embark on a four-week itinerary in coastal towns like Cannes, France; Civitavecchia (Rome) and Ajaccio (Corsica), Italy; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Voyages’ parent company Virgin Group, expressed his excitement about the initiative, saying, “I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to do my work from anywhere. When I started Virgin, I was actually working out of a houseboat. I’ve never thought of work and play as two different things; it’s all just living.”
He continued, “We want to give sailors that same opportunity, so we came up with this idea to have them travel the world while working aboard our beautiful ships.”
Passengers taking advantage of the special pass will be armed with the tools to “Work From Helm” with the ship’s SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink PRO, which offers 1.5 Gbps free WiFi connectivity.
The program also includes a dedicated concierge to help plan the month-long adventure, wash and fold laundry service, a daily coffee credit for specialty brews and teas at The Grounds Club, and RockStar access.
Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady
The special RockStar status includes an additional support team while on board and entry to the exclusive Richard’s Rooftop, which offers Moët happy hours.
“No longer does working from home mean being tied to a desk or home office and eating leftovers for lunch,” said Virgin Voyages’ CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu. “Virgin Voyages can now offer our sailors the chance to see the world while working from a daybed at The Dock and sampling Mediterranean mezzes, then hopping off the ship in between calls to make the most of our incredible ports of call.”
Virgin’s Summer Season Pass
The package, built for two, is priced at $9,990 per person. Sailors will receive Central Sea Terrace accommodations, early access to book onboard dining and Shore Things excursions, and a champagne welcome.
Scarlet Lady, the first cruise ship launched by Virgin Voyages in 2021following an extensive Pandemic-inspired delay, is scheduled to kick off each month-long Season Pass cruise from Barcelona, Spain.
June’s voyage sets sail on June 9 through July 7; July’s sailing takes place July 7 through August 4; August’s voyage launches August 4 and lasts until September 1; and the end-of-summer offering occurs September 1 through September 29.
The month-long pass will include four segment cruises, meaning multiple visits to Marseille and Toulon, France; Marina di Carrara, Ajaccio, and Rome, Italy; and Ibiza and Barcelona, Spain. This will also give passengers extra time to get to know the Mediterranean ports Scarlet Lady is visiting this summer.
Passengers will need to request the back-to-back voyages to purchase.
Scarlet Lady is currently spending her summer months in the Caribbean, with roundtrip itineraries launching from Miami, Florida, and visiting Bimini Islands, Bahamas, where Virgin operates the private Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini.
