Blog Page 424

Another Sailing Cancelled for New Princess Cruises Ship

Melissa Mayntz
-
0
Another Sailing Cancelled for New Princess Cruises Ship

Guests booked on the very first sailing of Princess Cruises’ first Sphere class vessel, Sun Princess, have been notified that their cruise has unfortunately been cancelled.

Travelers have been offered compensation for the inconvenience of the short-notice cancellation, but the offers appear inconsistent and many guests are understandably upset at the timing of the notification, just four days before the ship was to have set sail.

Sun Princess Inaugural Sailing Cancelled, Again

Princess Cruises has reached out to guests booked on the February 18, 2024 departure of Sun Princess, what was to have been the new ship’s first cruise, to notify them that the cruise is not able to go forward. While the 175,000-gross-ton ship is ready to be delivered from the Fincantieri shipyard to Princess Cruises, more work must be completed before she will be ready to welcome guests.

“While we will be taking delivery of our new Sun Princess on February 14, the ship must remain alongside in the shipyard to allow for additional technical work to be completed and we regret to announce that we have no other option than to cancel the February 18 voyage,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises’ President.

Sun Princess at the Shipyard
Sun Princess at the Shipyard (Photo Credit: Novikov Aleksey)

“We share in your deep disappointment and frustration, and sincerely apologize for the extreme disruption the late cancellation of this voyage creates.”

The February 18 sailing was not initially planned as Sun Princess’ inaugural cruise. The ship was first to have welcomed guests on February 8, but that cruise was cancelled on January 24. That gave guests two weeks’ of notice for the travel disruption, while this latest cancellation is just four days before embarkation.

The “technical work” yet to be completed has not been detailed, but it is not unusual for a ship to spend several weeks being outfitted and supplied after being delivered to the cruise line, before the vessel is prepared to set sail.

Compensation Offered

Passengers have been notified that they will be receiving a full refund of their cruise fare and any onboard, pre-purchased services, such as spa treatments, tours, or drink packages, back to their original form of payment.

Guests will also receive a 50% future cruise credit for any future Princess Cruises sailing booked by November 30, 2024 and sailed by December 31, 2025. This gives travelers a good time window to reschedule their vacation plans.

Sun Princess Cruise Ship
Sun Princess Cruise Ship

All travelers have also been offered up to $200 (USD) per person to cover change fees related to flights if they have not yet begun their travel to meet the ship. Princess Cruises is also being generous to travelers who are already in the region ahead of the sailing.

“If you already have arrived in the region prior to February 14, Princess will reimburse you for the entire cost of your roundtrip airfare,” the email notification confirmed.

Guests already in Europe ahead of the cruise are also eligible for up to €450 (approximately $481 USD) per night for Sunday, February 18 and Monday, February 19, along with a €140 ($150) per person daily reimbursement to cover hotels, meals, and other expenses while they make travel arrangements to return home.

Documentation for reimbursements must be submitted online for verification and refund consideration.

Will Additional Cruises Be Cancelled?

At this time, only the February 18 departure date is impacted, and Sun Princess‘ next cruise – a 10-night Grand Mediterranean itinerary from Rome to Barcelona – is still anticipated to move forward.

Sun Princess Cruise Ship
Sun Princess Cruise Ship

Booked guests will be understandably nervous about those plans, however, given the last-minute cancellation of the February 18 sailing. It would be wise to be sure that Princess Cruises has updated email addresses and cell phone numbers in case additional notifications are sent out in the coming days.

Because no details of the “technical work” have been revealed, it is unknown how much is left to complete on Sun Princess before she will be ready to welcome her first guests onboard. With luck, no additional cruises may be impacted and the ship will soon debut with all the fanfare the revolutionary vessel deserves.

Carnival to Expand Fleet, Orders New Excel Class Cruise Ship

Lissa Poirot
-
0
Carnival to Expand Fleet, Orders New Excel Class Cruise Ship

In an exciting development, Carnival Corporation has unveiled plans for a new addition to its Carnival Cruise Line fleet. A fourth Excel class vessel has been ordered from the popular Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, and the vessel will be sister to Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.

Carnival’s Fleet Expansion

Carnival Cruise Line is embarking on an ambitious expansion of its cutting-edge Excel-class fleet with the construction of a new, state-of-the-art cruise ship.

The forthcoming vessel, designed as a sister ship to the acclaimed Carnival Jubilee, delivered in 2023, is poised to make its grand entrance into the fleet in 2027, marking another milestone in Carnival’s maritime history.

This new addition, which will span approximately 344 meters and boast a gross tonnage of around 180,000, is set to enhance the cruising experience for over 6,400 guests.

Carnival Jubilee Conveyance on the Ems
Carnival Jubilee Conveyance on the Ems (Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line)

Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation, highlighted the significance of this expansion, saying, “Building on our strong performance and growing momentum around the world, we are excited to resume our newbuild program and work to further enhance our global fleet.”

He added that the new ship “will wow Carnival Cruise Line’s guests.”

Unveiling the New Vessel

Since Carnival Jubilee‘s addition to the fleet, speculation had been building that Carnival Corporation was adding a new ship after leaked reports showed potential Excel-class size orders at the Fincantieri shipyard.

Carnival Cruise Line’s latest addition is poised to offer expansive staterooms, multiple dining options ranging from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants, and entertainment venues catering to all ages.

The ship will also feature Carnival’s signature attractions, including water parks, sports courts, and wellness centers.

Carnival Excel Class
Rendering Via: Carnival Cruise Line

Said Bernd Eikens, CEO of Meyer Group, owners of Meyer Werft shipbuilders, “We are honored to continue to partnership with Carnival Corporation, bringing to life another groundbreaking vessel that pushes the boundaries of cruise ship design and functionality.”

In line with Carnival’s commitment to sustainability, the new ship will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), significantly reducing its carbon footprint by reducing emissions of sulfur dioxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. The ship’s design also will incorporate energy-efficient systems.

Carnival’s Excel-Class Ships

Carnival Cruise Line currently operates three Excel vessels, including Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and, most recently, Carnival Jubilee.

Delivered in 2020 as the first ship in North America to be powered by LNG, and introduced the world to the first-ever rollercoaster at sea, Mardi Gras has a capacity for 6,500 passengers and 2,000 crew members and a weight of 181,808 gross tons.

Carnival Celebration, positioned in Port Miami, Florida, accommodates 5,374 passengers and 1,735 crew, with a tonnage of 183,521, and was launched in 2022.

Four Carnival Cruise Line Excel Ships
Four Carnival Cruise Line Excel Ships

Carnival Jubilee, the newest additional to the fleet, debuted in Galveston, Texas, in December 2023, accommodating 5,374 passengers and 1,257 crew members. It was voted Best New Cruise Ship of 2023 in Cruise Hive’s annual awards.

“Our Excel-class ships have been a tremendous addition to the Carnival fleet and proven very popular with our guests,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

“As the world’s most popular cruise line, this new ship enables us to continue the growth of our incredible fleet as we welcome our loyal guests back to cruise more frequently and attract new-to-cruise guests to experience all that a Carnival cruise has to offer,” Duffy added.

Read Also: All Carnival Cruise Ships By Age – Newest to Oldest

Meyer Werft, renowned for constructing LNG-propelled cruise ships, will construct the new vessel. The shipbuilder has previously constructed nine cruise ships with LNG propulsion for four cruise lines in the Carnival Corporation portfolio, including AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Carnival Cruise Line.

Additionally, the group operates three shipyards in Finland and Germany, where the current Excel-class ships were constructed.

Port Readies for Big Spike in Cruise Ship Arrivals

Donna Tunney
-
0
Port Readies for Big Spike in Cruise Ship Arrivals

A small port on England’s southwest coast has big ambitions for 2024 and beyond, as the number of cruise ships committed to exploring the region continues to grow. The Port of Plymouth, in the county of Devon, will benefit from a hefty 40% rise in cruise ship arrivals in 2024.

Fourteen Ships Already Booked to Call in 2024

Plymouth, also called Britain’s Ocean City, is situated in England’s only county that has two coastlines — the Bristol Channel to the north and the English Channel to the south.

The Port of Plymouth is poised for rapid expansion as a cruise destination, with more than 10,000 cruise guests anticipated to visit in 2024. The number represents a 40% jump in arrivals versus 2023.

Plymouth is set to welcome 14 ships when its cruise season gets under way in April and continues to October, providing a financial boon to the regional economy. Revenue from cruise guests and ship crew members who spend money on local tours and in retail shops and restaurants help local businesses thrive and fill the port’s coffers with fees from berthing, harbor pilot costs, and other expenses.

Ships confirmed to call at the port in 2024 include several luxury vessels, such as Seabourn’s 450-guest Seabourn Sojourn, Exploris’ 132-guest expedition ship Exploris I, Windstar Cruises’ 312-guest Star Legend, Ponant’s 184-guest Le Dumont D’urville, Silversea Cruises’ 691-guest Silver Dawn and 608-guest Silver Spirit, and Oceania’s 684-guest Sirena, among others.

Ambassador Cruise Line’s 1,248-guest Ambition and  1,400-guest Ambience both will make their inaugural calls at the port in 2024. The cruise line is the UK’s newest cruise brand, having debuted in 2022.

The Port of Plymouth is well known for providing a warm welcome to guests, as Cruise Plymouth Ambassador volunteers greet passengers as they come ashore, along with the Town Crier, and the Plymouth Maritime Corps of Drums performs, all making for a rousing and festive arrival.

Holland America Ship in Plymouth
Holland America Ship in Plymouth (Photo Credit: One Plymouth)

“Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City has been working hard to cement our reputation as a must-see port of call and a great many people are busy behind the scenes to make these cruise visits a huge success,” said Amanda Lumley, chief executive of Destination Plymouth.

Lumley pointed to a recent two-day fam visit by cruise industry executives and cruise media, who had opportunities to explore the area and its top attractions, which include the National Marine Aquarium, Mount Edgcumbe House and Gardens, Mayflower Museum, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, the Seaton’s Tower lighthouse, and the Barbican, the historic heart of Plymouth famous for its art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Port’s Docklands Undergo Berth, Guest Upgrades

According to Glen Gardner, the cruise/new business development manager at Destination Plymouth, the increase in cruise business is enhancing the city’s reputation on an international level.

Moreover, the port’s facilities at Millbay Dock are in the process of a major renovation to upgrade berthing and passenger facilities, all scheduled to be completed in 2025. The investment project is an initiative of Associated British Ports, which owns the port of Plymouth.

Plymouth, UK
Plymouth, UK (Photo Credit: bernd.brueggemann)

The port currently can accommodate ships up to 984 feet long; Seabourn Sojourn, for example, is about 656 feet long, while mega-ships are typically 1,000-plus feet in length.

More From Cruise Hive

In an effort to focus on growing its cruise business, several public and private agencies joined forces to create the Cruise Plymouth Partnership in 2021. The partnership’s goal is to attract more ships. In addition to its growing cruise industry, the Port of Plymouth is a major ferry hub, providing services between the UK, France, and Spain.

The Port of Plymouth joins other UK ports, preparing for a busy 2024. Portsmouth, for instance, a larger south coast port roughly 170 miles east of Plymouth, expects to break its cruise arrivals record in 2024 by welcoming about 155,000 cruise passengers.

Passenger Passes Away During Ultimate World Cruise Sailing

Melissa Mayntz
-
0
Passenger Passes Away During Ultimate World Cruise Sailing

Royal Caribbean International has confirmed that a guest has unfortunately passed away during Serenade of the Seas‘ ongoing World Cruise.

The announcement was first shared via social media from another guest onboard and while that video has now been removed, the cruise line has confirmed the death in a statement provided to Cruise Hive.

Guest on World Cruise Passes Away

Royal Caribbean International’s 274-night World Cruise has not been without drama from the first few weeks of the sailing, but the recent death of a passenger onboard is not social media fodder or being manufactured for likes, views, and shares.

The cruise line has confirmed the guest’s death with a statement, but remains – rightfully so – committed to the guest’s privacy and respecting their loved ones at this difficult time.

“A guest sailing on board Serenade of the Seas has sadly passed away,” a spokesperson from Royal Caribbean said. “We are actively providing support and assistance to the guest’s loved ones at this time. Out of the privacy of the guest and their family, we have nothing further to share at this time.”

Other travelers on the well-publicized cruise have shared that the passenger was an elderly woman, who appeared to have been aboard the ship for a shorter segment of the cruise rather than the full world sailing.

Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise
Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise (Photo Credit: Diego O. Galeano)

To protect the guest’s privacy as well as the privacy of their family members and loved ones, no information has been confirmed about the cause of death or whether any medical treatment was administered onboard. All cruise ships are equipped with medical centers and have medical staff onboard, but sudden emergencies, and unfortunately deaths, do occasionally happen.

Read Also: Do Cruise Ships Have Morgues?

Cruise ships are also equipped to deal with the sad circumstances of a death, and cruise line representatives will assist with making arrangements for the remains to be transported as necessary. While sad and definitely upsetting for both guests and crew members, this incident should have no impact on the ship’s itinerary or cruise operations.

Where Is the Cruise Now?

While the 90,090-gross-ton, Radiance-class Serenade of the Seas can welcome 2,490 passengers aboard, only about 800 travelers are staying on the ship for the entire lengthy cruise. The World Cruise began on December 10, 2023, from Miami, Florida, and will return to the South Florida homeport on September 10, 2024.

In the meantime, destinations in 65 countries adding up to 150 ports of call are on the schedule, though itinerary changes have already happened and more are inevitable as the sailing continues.

Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas (Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia)

The cruise line is currently evaluating whether or not transit through the Red Sea and Suez Canal will be possible, given recent ongoing tensions in the region. A decision is expected on that within the next few days, though the ship will not reach the area until May.

“The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. In collaboration with our Global Security team, we continuously monitor the situation in the region and make any necessary adjustments. Guests will be notified directly of any changes,” the cruise line has said of the Red Sea situation.

Serenade of the Seas has begun the next leg of the sailing, having already visited ports in the Caribbean, South America, and Mexico. The ship left California on Sunday, February 11, and is now en route to Hawaii. After exploring the Aloha State, Serenade of the Seas will turn south to French Polynesia, New Zealand, and Australia, before moving on to Asia and India.

Read Also: The Impact of Red Sea Tensions on Cruising

From there, the ship will either transit the Red Sea as planned, or may be rerouted around Africa as has happened with a number of other cruise ships. After time in Europe – which may be replanned depending on the Red Sea leg – the ship will visit Iceland, Greenland, Canada, and Bermuda before finally concluding the epic sailing with great fanfare back in Miami later this year.

Carnival Ship Delayed After Dry Dock, First Cruise Shortened

Melissa Mayntz
-
0
Carnival Ship Delayed After Dry Dock, First Cruise Shortened

Carnival Vista has completed her dry dock refreshment and refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain, but poor weather during the ship’s transatlantic crossing to return to her Florida homeport is delaying her return to service by one day.

Guests booked on the first cruise will now be sailing a 2-night itinerary instead of the originally planned 3-night cruise with embarkation pushed back a full day, and travelers have been given some options for the inconvenience.

Carnival Vista Delayed

Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked on the first post-dry-dock sailing of Carnival Vista to alert them to a delay in the ship’s return to service.

Because of inclement weather in the Atlantic Ocean that has slowed the ship’s return to Port Canaveral, coupled with a slight delay leaving Spain, the cruise will now depart on Friday, February 16, 2024 rather than Thursday, February 15 as originally scheduled.

“We know you were looking forward to the full itinerary we intended to operate and sincerely apologize for this unexpected change of plans,” the email notification read.

Carnival’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, also noted the change via Facebook to ensure the word gets out to all guests.

“This means the ship will sail on a two day cruise rather than a three day,” explained Heald. “Obviously this will be a big disappointment and I truly am so very sorry.”

Guests should also note that embarkation times have been revised, with all embarkation appointments moved forward one hour. An 11-11:30 a.m. terminal arrival appointment will now be 10-10:30, for example.

Carnival Cruise Line's Vista Class Propulsion Issues
Carnival Cruise Line’s Vista Class Propulsion Issues (Photo Credit: SeregaSibTravel)

Carnival Vista will now be visiting Nassau on Saturday, February 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. rather than on Friday, but will no longer have a day at sea.

Shore excursions for Nassau that have been booked through Carnival Cruise Line will be moved to accommodate the change in visit date. Passengers who may have made independent tour arrangements will need to contact their tour operators for options, including cancellation or adjustment if available.

Read Also: Carnival Vista Upgrade Details – What’s New Onboard?

Carnival Vista‘s Cruise Director, Marty Pitts, has reached out through social media to let guests know that the activities onboard the ship will still be moving forward, with plenty of great options for everyone to enjoy despite the shorter sailing.

“Myself and the team are so excited to have you onboard the ship,” Pitts said. “Let me tell you that 2-day cruise, we are going to have it jam-packed, full of fun events happening all around the ship.”

Options onboard will include the legendary Sail Away party as Carnival Vista departs Port Canaveral, giveaways at the Fun Ashore, Fun Aboard talk, live music, both family-friendly and adults-only comedy shows, a full production show, an atrium music party, and so much more, including the ever-popular ’80s Rock-and-Glow Party.

Compensation Offered

All guests on the now-shortened sailing will be receiving a pro-rated one-day refund of their cruise fare and other onboard expenses to account for the new cruise length. Carnival Cruise Line has also offered $50 (USD) of onboard credit for all guests (up to $100 per stateroom) to make up for the inconvenience.

Carnival Vista Cruise Ship
Carnival Vista Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: BUI LE MANH HUNG)

If passengers need to reschedule flights for their new embarkation day, Carnival Cruise Line will provide up to $200 per person for reimbursement of non-refundable air travel change fees. Receipts documenting that change must be submitted to the cruise line for approval.

Travelers may also opt to cancel their cruise if they no longer wish to remain on the shortened sailing, but must contact Carnival Cruise Line or their travel agent before 9 p.m. on Wednesday, February 14 to confirm their cancellation.

There will be no penalties for the cancellation, and guests can choose either a full refund back to the original form of payment or a 100% Future Cruise Credit to book a different Carnival cruise.

No Additional Cruises Impacted

Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed that no additional cruises are impacted by this change, that it is just poor weather causing the ship to be slightly delayed as she returns to service.

“No other cruises or schedules will change, it is just this cruise,” said Heald.

The concern for future impacted sailings is a justified one, as Carnival’s Vista-class ships have a history of propulsion difficulties that impact sailing speeds and have led to adjusted itineraries and cancelled cruises.

Fresh from her 30-day dry dock, however, Carnival Vista is operating well and ready to show off new public spaces and upgrades for everyone aboard.

After the two-day sailing, the 133,500-gross-ton ship will offer a variety of 6- and 8-night Eastern Caribbean and Southern Caribbean cruises, and in July 2025, she will be one of the first vessels to visit Celebration Key, Carnival Cruise Line’s exclusive new destination on Grand Bahama Island.

Caribbean Port’s Special Day for the World’s Largest Cruise Ship

Catie Kovelman
-
0
Caribbean Port’s Special Day for the World’s Largest Cruise Ship

St. Maarten is celebrating Icon of the Seas’ first visit with a spectacle as iconic as the world’s largest cruise ship! The Caribbean destination is planning a special fireworks display to commemorate the ship’s debut in the port. 

Caribbean Port Plans Fireworks Display To Celebrate First Visit By Icon of the Seas 

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is expected to make its debut in St. Maarten on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. When the world’s largest cruise ship arrives in the port, passengers and crew members can expect an extra special welcome. 

The 7,600-passenger vessel is expected to arrive in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, at 6:30 a.m. local time and depart at 7:00 p.m. 

Upon arrival, there will be a traditional plaque exchange between officials from the Port St. Maarten Group (PSG) and Royal Caribbean International (RCI) executives to commemorate the ship’s inaugural visit, with government officials and key stakeholders also in attendance. 

As Icon of the Seas prepares to set sail at the end of the day, the Caribbean port will bid the 250,800 gross-ton cruise ship adieu with a celebratory fireworks display. The show will take place close to the scheduled departure time, which guests can enjoy from their balcony cabins or on deck.

Icon of the Seas in Miami, Florida
Icon of the Seas in Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov)

“The partnership between RCI and PSG demonstrates with the inaugural call of Icon that cruise opportunities continue to grow for the destination in 2024 with this visit being one of the highlights of more to come throughout the year,” read a statement from the Port St. Maarten Group.

In addition to Icon of the Seas, Celebrity Apex will also be in St. Maarten during the festivities on Tuesday, February 13. Celebrity Apex is the newest Edge-class ship and joined the Celebrity Cruises fleet in 2020 – a brand which is also owned by Royal Caribbean Group. 

Icon of the Seas Makes Waves With More Inaugural Port Visits 

Icon of the Seas will visit St. Maarten as part of its third official voyage – a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise that departed from Miami on February 10, 2024. After making her debut in St. Maarten, the gigantic vessel will call on St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands on February 14 and CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island, on February 16. 

Read Also: Icon of the Seas vs Wonder of the Seas: A Giant Comparison

Beginning with her maiden voyage on January 27, 2024, Royal Caribbean’s newest and largest ship will continue to alternate between 7-night cruises sailing through the Western and Eastern Caribbean, which will continue well into 2025.

Icon of the Seas in St. Thomas, USVI
Icon of the Seas in St. Thomas, USVI (Photo Credit: Virgin Islands Port Authority)

Icon of the Seas’ debut in St. Maarten is one of many firsts the new ship has celebrated thus far – with more milestones likely to come as she settles into her career at sea in the coming months. So far, the ship has already made several other inaugural calls throughout the Caribbean. 

Prior to arriving in Miami for her maiden voyage, Icon of the Seas had already docked in Ponce, Puerto Rico, for the first time, where shipyard workers disembarked to return home and new crew members joined the ship. She then sailed to Perfect Day at CocoCay for a well-deserved party to celebrate the crew members prior to welcoming paying guests on board. 

On her maiden voyage, Icon of the Seas made her debut in St.Kitts on Tuesday, January 30, 2024. Not only was this the vessel’s first visit to the Caribbean port, but it was also her first port call ever with paying passengers onboard. 

The following day, January 31st, the Royal Caribbean ship made its inaugural call on St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. The arrival of the world’s largest cruise ship was much anticipated and celebrated by locals – with the Virgin Islands also signing an agreement with Royal Caribbean to secure the island’s future in cruise tourism on the same day. 

New Regulations to Severely Limit Arctic Cruise Tourism

Robert McGillivray
-
0
New Regulations to Severely Limit Arctic Cruise Tourism

The Norwegian Government will amend environmental regulations in Svalbard, marking a significant turning point for Arctic cruise tourism. 

To preserve the unique wilderness and wildlife of one of Europe’s largest untouched areas, the government is introducing measures limiting how cruise lines operate. These are measures that are set to redefine the future of visiting this remote destination.

New Measures Impact Arctic Cruising

The idea of sailing to the Arctic may not align with everyone’s vision of a perfect cruise. However, the Svalbard archipelago has become a significant attraction for nature lovers, offering a chance to explore one of Europe’s last untouched wilderness areas aboard expedition cruise ships.

While cruise ships that sail to the region are generally not the huge cruise ships we see elsewhere, the number of ships has been increasing significantly in the last couple of years. The expedition vessels carry, on average, between 50 and 500 guests, with the majority of ships carrying a maximum of 200 guests.

Longyearbyen, the most northern city in the world, located on Svalbard, will occasionally see larger cruise ships arriving, although these do not typically sail to environmentally fragile areas.

The introduction of stringent measures from January 1, 2025, includes restrictions on the number of guests allowed ashore and limitations on ship sizes that are expected to drastically alter the Arctic cruising experience.

Under the new regulations, cruise ships visiting Svalbard will now be limited to 200 guests in protected areas, a measure designed to minimize human impact on the fragile environment.

Longyearbyen, Svalbard
Longyearbyen, Svalbard (Photo Credit: knelson20)

Furthermore, the viewing opportunities for iconic Arctic wildlife such as walruses will be significantly reduced. Regulations now mandate a distance of at least 150 meters from these animals, ensuring their undisturbed habitat but limiting close encounters for guests.

Similarly, the requirement mandates that ships maintain a 5-knot speed limit within 500 meters of land outside bird cliffs. This regulation is enforced during the sensitive period from April 1 to August 31. As a result, it restricts the possibilities for zodiacs to approach bird sites and simultaneously conduct scenic cruising around the area.

The ban on breaking fast ice restricts ships with ice class from entering areas with fast ice, which in turn will protect the habitat of seals, polar bears, and walruses, which use the ice for resting, breeding, and as a platform for hunting.

Also Read: Top 10 Smallest Cruise Ships in the World

Breaking fast ice can also accelerate melting by increasing the amount of open water, which absorbs more sunlight than ice. This absorption, while minimal, leads to higher water temperatures and can contribute to the global trend of ice melt, further exacerbating the effects of climate change.

Preserving Svalbard’s Wilderness

The new regulations present both challenges and opportunities for the cruise industry and its guests. While the limitations may reduce the flexibility and scope of Arctic cruises, they also encourage a more sustainable and respectful approach to exploring one of the planet’s last wilderness frontiers.

Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, the Norwegian Minister of Climate and Environment, told High North News: “Climate change together with increased activity has resulted in great pressure on the vulnerable Arctic wildlife and nature in Svalbard. We are now tightening the environmental regulations in Svalbard to strengthen the protection of flora and fauna.”

Expedition Ship in Svalbard
Expedition Ship in Svalbard (Photo Credit: Alexey Seafarer)

Contrary to the perception that cruise operators venturing to Svalbard might primarily cause disturbances, their contribution has been significantly positive.

Over the years, companies like Oceanwide Expeditions from the Netherlands and Quark Expeditions from Canada, among others, have implemented environmental protection initiatives. These programs have played a pivotal role in establishing many of the current rules and regulations.

The Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators has expressed concerns regarding the recent regulations affecting cruise activities in Svalbard.

The organization said it is disappointed with the policy-making process and the stringent measures adopted, which they believe will significantly impact operations and strain the areas still available for shore landings.

Despite a comprehensive consultation process and the industry’s efforts to offer solutions to protect Svalbard’s wildlife and wilderness, the association finds the new restrictions challenging.

However, the requirement for ships to sail with fewer guests or the outright prohibition of larger vessels in certain areas could lead to a more exclusive and potentially enriching experience for those who visit. This shift may also encourage the development of smaller, more eco-friendly ships designed specifically for sensitive environments like Svalbard.

Woman Seeking Explanation for Itinerary Change That Ruined Cruise

Melissa Mayntz
-
0
Woman Seeking Explanation for Itinerary Change That Ruined Cruise

A passenger aboard Norwegian Star sailing at the southern tip of South America with scenic viewing in Antarctica is posting social media videos about the change in the ship’s itinerary, wondering about unclear information from Norwegian Cruise Line and why the ship’s destinations have been changed without explanation from the cruise line.

Viral Videos Seeking Explanation From Cruise Line

A woman currently aboard Norwegian Star has claimed the cruise line altered the once-in-a-lifetime itinerary and is seeking an explanation from Norwegian Cruise Line.

The woman’s name has not been revealed, but she is posting on TikTok under username ruinedvacation, with just a few videos related to her current cruise. Between her first two videos detailing her concerns, she has amassed more than 3.1 million views as others tune in to the dramatic situation.

“Our ship is not going to Antarctica. They secretively changed the name of this cruise yesterday,” the woman said, referencing the description of the cruise on the cruise line’s app in a video posted on February 9, 2024.

@ruinedvacation

@Norwegian Cruise Line we need answers #cruise #cruisetok #help #southamerica #antarctica #vacation #cruiseship #fyp #fypシ

♬ original sound – ruinedvacation

She claims to have spoken to Guest Services onboard and learned that the ship’s itinerary was changed for “operational reasons” by Norwegian Cruise Line headquarters in Miami.

“We feel we’re being cheated, being scammed,” she said. “Everyone on this ship has paid a lot of money to cruise to Antarctica, not to do a round trip South America at sea.”

Norwegian Star Itinerary

Norwegian Star is currently sailing a 14-night cruise roundtrip from Buenos Aires, Argentina. During the trip, calls to ports in Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, the Shetland Islands, and the Falkland Islands all add up to an amazing getaway.

What is not amazing passengers, including the woman posting the videos, is the change in the ship’s planned scenic cruising. As has been done for several of Norwegian Star‘s Antarctic itineraries this season, ports of call have been shifted and likewise, the ship’s scenic cruising locations have also been altered.

Norwegian Star Cruise Ship
Photo Courtesy: Norwegian Cruise Line

The video shows a large crowd gathered in the ship’s lobby near the guest services desk, with security in the crowd seeking to keep everyone calm.

“We are being dismissed, ignored, refused answers,” the woman said. “We’ve paid too much money, we’re too smart, and we’re too angry to just order another cocktail and sit down and accept the fact that our money has vanished into Norwegian Cruise Line’s pockets.”

In a follow up video, the woman shares an update with more explanation about the ship’s change of itinerary, acknowledging that crew members did eventually speak with the crowd to explain the itinerary change decision.

@ruinedvacation

Replying to @Sarah update!! Still veey little information from @Norwegian Cruise Line #cruise #cruisetok #help #southamerica #antarctica #ncl #vacation #cruiseship #fyp #fypシ

♬ original sound – ruinedvacation

“The operational decision made by Miami head office and forced upon this ship is that this ship, the Norwegian Star, has a ‘go slow’ order,” she said. “They are not allowed to travel as fast as they normally would. That’s all we know. There was no explanation as to why there was a go slow order.”

An email was apparently sent to guests advising them of the change, and a notice was available at luggage check-in when the cruise began, but the woman claims that “hundreds” of people never received those notifications. The woman also claims there have been no explanatory announcements from the ship’s captain addressing the situation.

Is Norwegian Star Visiting Antarctica?

Originally, the ship was to have sailed through Paradise Bay – a stunning cove adjacent to Antarctica’s mainland. Instead, that scenic cruising has been removed from the itinerary, and the ship will instead offer Antarctic viewing near Elephant Island – 350 miles (560 kilometers) northeast of Paradise Bay, and 150 miles (241 km) from the continent’s mainland.

It must be noted that Norwegian Star had never planned to have an actual landing on Antarctica’s mainland, and travelers were never to have been able to set foot on the continent.

Norwegian Star Cruise Ship
Norwegian Star Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Lukassek / Shutterstock)

Furthermore, Elephant Island, which the ship is visiting for scenic cruising, is a geographic part of Antarctica administered by the Antarctic Treaty. While it is not the continent’s mainland, it very much is part of Antarctica.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Guest Ticket Contract, section 7(c), specifically outlines the cruise line’s right to implement itinerary deviations.

“The Guest agrees that the [cruise line] has the sole discretion and liberty to direct the movements of the vessel, including the rights to deviate from the purchased voyage or the normal course for any purpose,” the contract reads.

This includes the right to “cancel any scheduled call at any port for any reason and at any time before, during or after sailing of the
vessel.”

Cruise lines frequently change itineraries, sailing routes, port visit times, and other parts of the cruise vacation schedule for a variety of reasons, which may include weather, ship operations, port congestion, environmental regulations, and other factors. While it can certainly be disappointing to travelers, such changes are not uncommon and are part of the risk of booking a cruise itinerary.

Carnival Addresses Yet Another Cruising Duck Controversy

Melissa Mayntz
-
0
Carnival Addresses Yet Another Cruising Duck Controversy

Even more questions have arisen about the popular cruising ducks phenomenon, and Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald has tried his best to outline Carnival’s position on the trend. This follows other rumors and discussion on cruising ducks and what they mean to passengers onboard Carnival cruise ships.

No Soliciting Permitted With Cruising Ducks

The most recent question brought up about cruise ducks – the small toys hidden as a guest-led scavenger hunt onboard cruise ships – is whether or not it is acceptable to attach business cards to the ducks as a form of advertising for when they are found by other passengers.

A Carnival cruise guest recently questioned John Heald about the practice, wondering why it isn’t permitted.

“Why can’t we put business cards with the ducks we hide on every cruise? Our cards read ‘You are in LUCK! You Found a DUCK – Keep or Hide – You Decide!’ This is on our business card with details for our business,” the guest explained. “Where is the harm in this? Why does every cruise line but yours allow for us to give the gift of laughter with the ducks we hide and get no return for doing this?”

Heald noted that he has received similar questions several times via his popular Facebook page, and outlined Carnival Cruise Line’s response.

“To be honest, I don’t know if we really have time to police this and in fact, let’s be honest, we don’t,” Heald said. “The reason I said no is because we don’t allow any kind of solicitation of any sort. And isn’t attaching your business card to a duck solicitation?”

Cruising Ducks
The Original Cruising Duck! (Photo Credit: Cruising Ducks Original)

Heald has previously addressed different cruise duck rumors, including whether or not the cruise line will ban ducks outright and if crew members are urged to get rid of the ducks by tossing them overboard.

While cruise ducks are not an official Carnival Cruise Line activity organized by the Fun Squad, the ship’s cruise director, or the entertainment staff onboard, they are not prohibited or discouraged as Disney Cruise Line does.

Attaching business cards to the ducks, however, may one day be an issue the cruise line could step up on. While Head acknowledges that enforcing a “no business cards” guideline would be very challenging, it could indeed be considered solicitation.

Passenger Reaction

Heald asks for other guests’ reactions to the idea of attaching a business card to a cruise duck. Many people responded that they’d simply throw the card away, perhaps taking note of the business as one not to frequent for such an obvious attempt to capitalize on a fun activity for personal profit.

Carnival Cruising Ducks
Carnival Cruise Ship and Cruising Duck

Various responding comments include:

“If I found a duck with a business card, I would be more likely to NOT want to call that business for taking advantage of the situation.”

“I’m sure I wouldn’t frequent a business that did that. It’s in very poor taste.”

“A business card on a duck would be a definite turn off from ever going to that business.”

“A cruise is for pleasure and relaxation. No one wants to have someone pushing their business.”

Many other commenters noted that adding a business card or other solicitation to a cruise duck seems tacky or desperate. It may also simply be useless, as cruise travelers often come from many different locations and may not be able to visit a particular business unless it is strictly online.

Read Also: One Major Cruise Line Now Discouraging Cruising Ducks

Some travelers noted that if business cards are permitted on cruise ducks, then other forms of solicitation might soon be requested as well. For example, travelers might want to advertise their business with stateroom door decorations, or bring a suitcase of promotional products to give away or sell onboard, or bring forms for other travelers to use to place orders.

Where should the line be drawn and enforced? Share your thoughts on cruising ducks on the Cruise Hive boards!

1...423424425...602Page 424 of 602