Blog Page 42

Famous Cruise Ship Captain Suddenly Resigns in Favor of Family

Melissa Mayntz
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Famous Cruise Ship Captain Suddenly Resigns in Favor of Family

Key Aspects:

  • Captain Kate McCue is resigning from Four Seasons Yachts to prioritize family following dramatic changes in her own family.
  • While McCue is not giving up her captain’s license, she is planning to take cruise vacations with her father.
  • McCue will likely continue to share her life and adventures at sea and on land with her large social media following.

Captain Kate McCue is one of the most famous cruise ship captains in the world, but she’s stepping away from the helm for a bit. She made the surprise announcement of her resignation from Four Seasons Yachts through her popular social media channels on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, explaining why she felt this was the appropriate decision for her life at this time.

“Sometimes life changes the course,” she captioned her announcement video. “After 30 years at sea, I’m making more room for family, joy and new adventures, including experiencing cruising from the other side for a change.”

McCue explains that when she started her vacation in April 2026, she already expected to be her father’s caregiver following his major back surgery. In June, however, her mother unexpectedly passed away.

“That’s honestly when I realized that I’d spent the majority of the last year away from home because I was working,” she explained.

Her career has been cruising full speed ahead from her time with Celebrity Cruises to Four Seasons Yachts. During the past 30 years, the last 11 of which she has served as Captain, she has delivered two new ships and collaborated on a prototype vessel.

Cruise Hive reported on McCue’s resignation from Celebrity Cruises in February 2025, at which time she also noted she would continue to sail.

“I’ve got too much salt in my veins to leave the sea behind,” she said at the time.

McCue is confident in the path her career has taken and feels her parents are proud of her as well, but it is time for her to spend more time prioritizing family and pursuing her passions in life.

On Instagram, the brief video has garnered more than 32,000 “likes” in just a few hours, as well as more than 2,400 comments wishing her well and fondly remembering sailing with her.

Will McCue Still Be Cruising?

While the high-profile maritime master doesn’t reveal what passions she wants to enjoy during this next chapter of her life, she does want to help her father follow his bucket list, which includes cruising. This time, however, she’ll be a guest rather than the captain.

She has not confirmed any plans but does note they’ll be trying different types of vessels. There was no mention of any particular cruise line or destinations, however.

Furthermore, McCue confirmed that she is not giving up her license or completely ending her maritime career.

“If you’re wondering, I am keeping my captain’s license active,” she explained. “Sailing again is absolutely not off the table but for now there are so many new adventures ahead.”

Read Also: Who Is Captain Kate McCue? Everyone’s Favorite Captain!

It’s indisputable that McCue has already had many fine adventures, both at sea and on land, often sharing them with her more than one million social media followers.

Many of her messages include inspirational insights to empower women in maritime careers, and in May 2026, she was honored by California State University Maritime Academy with an honorary Doctorate of Science degree recognizing her leadership and maritime industry innovation.

Yet she also finds moments of fun, awe, and sometimes silliness. Many of her fans remember those moments with Bug Naked, her elf-eared sphynx cat that accompanied her during her tenure on Celebrity Cruises. Bug Naked passed away suddenly in December 2024 from health complications following a dental procedure.

In April 2026 she was united with Willie, another elf-eared sphynx cat. Willie is a littermate to Bug Naked and was rehomed to McCue from another owner who wanted to be sure the cat received the very best life when her own life circumstances changed.

Undoubtedly Willie will accompany McCue on some of those new family adventures on the seas and wherever her path takes her.

Disney Cruise Line Is About to Do Something It Has Never Done in 2029

Melissa Mayntz
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Disney Cruise Line Is About to Do Something It Has Never Done in 2029

Key Aspects:

  • Disney Cruise Line will now debut the Japan-based Wish-class ship and two vessels in the new smaller class in 2029.
  • This will be the first time the cruise line has ever debuted more than one ship in the same calendar year.
  • Other than Disney Believe, the names of the new ships and class details have not yet been announced.

Disney Cruise Line’s fairy godmother has worked some magic and two upcoming new ships are now expected to launch earlier than originally anticipated.

In August 2024, Cruise Hive reported the cruise line’s intention to expand the fleet to a total of 13 vessels by 2031. At the time, just five vessels were sailing, and three more have since debuted: Disney Treasure (December 2024), Disney Destiny (November 2025), and Disney Adventure (March 2026).

The future ships are already on order but Disney Cruise Line has revealed an updated timeline for their expected completions in a shareholder letter released on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

Financially, the cruise line is performing well and contributing to overall company profits and 4% global guest growth (including the theme parks and other experiences) in the third fiscal quarter of the year.

“Fiscal Q3 was the first full quarter with our two newest cruise ships, the Disney Destiny and Disney Adventure. Together, these ships increased stateroom capacity by approximately 50% compared to the prior-year quarter and we remain encouraged by current occupancy and forward bookings,” the letter explained.

“We are looking forward to bringing additional cruise capacity online in the years ahead.”

Disney Believe, currently under construction at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, is still slated to debut in late 2027. No bookings or itinerary announcements have yet been made for the fourth Wish-class ship, but the cruise line has teased that more information will be forthcoming in October 2026.

Disney Believe Render
Disney Believe Render

The fifth Wish-class ship, which has not yet been named, will be operated by the Oriental Land Company, the owners and operators of Tokyo Disney Resort. This vessel will sail out of Japan beginning in 2029, though no further details of its debut time have been confirmed.

New Ships to Debut Sooner Than Expected

Originally, the next three ships on order were expected to launch in 2029, 2030, and 2031. Now, Disney Cruise Line expects to bring those ships forward with two in 2029 (one late in the calendar) and the third in late 2030. A graphic in the shareholder report confirms the updated timeline.

This means that three new ships will debut in 2029, an unprecedented schedule for the cruise line and rare for any cruise line.

Historically, Disney Cruise Line has never debuted more than one ship at a time. When Disney Wish first set sail in June 2022, she was the first ship to join the fleet in over a decade.

The three upcoming smaller ships are part of an as-yet-undisclosed new class for the cruise line. Other than the expected launch dates, few details on the new class are yet available but the capacity is estimated to be roughly 3,000 guests at maximum occupancy.

Read Also: Disney Cruise Ships by Age – Newest to Oldest

This puts the new ships smaller than the popular Wish class and just a shade higher than the capacity of Disney Cruise Line’s oldest vessels, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. Both of those Magic-class ships can welcome 2,700 guests.

Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are the oldest ships in the DCL fleet, having debuted in 1998 and 1999, respectively. While no announcement has been made about the fate of the two ships when new vessels enter the fleet, it is possible they may be retired, sold, or chartered to other lines.

Another possibility is that the older ships may be moved to new sailing regions as Disney Cruise Line tests the waters for further global expansion.

Carnival Drops Priority Benefits for First-Ever Solar Eclipse Cruise

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Drops Priority Benefits for First-Ever Solar Eclipse Cruise

Key Aspects:

  • Several Platinum priority benefits have been dropped from Carnival Legend‘s August 9, 2026 departure from Dover, UK.
  • This particular 11-night sailing is Carnival’s first-ever solar eclipse cruise for the astronomical event on August 12.
  • It is not unusual for Platinum-level benefits to be removed on very popular sailings with many VIFP guests aboard.

One of the year’s most highly anticipated Carnival sailings will not be offering select benefits to Platinum-level guests during the last month before the VIFP loyalty program ends.

While not unexpected, this may certainly be disappointing to guests onboard Carnival Legend‘s August 9, 2026 departure, which includes a special day at sea for the total solar eclipse on Wednesday, August 12.

“Due to the high number of Platinum guests joining us on this voyage, we will not be able to provide the following benefits,” the letter emailed to booked guests explained.

The letter goes on to detail that priority embarkation and debarkation will not be available either at the beginning or end of the cruise, nor at ports of call. Early stateroom access, early luggage dropoff, and priority luggage delivery are also unavailable for this sailing.

Two other benefits may or may not be available: the priority line at Guest Services on Deck 2 as well as the priority phone assistance. It is possible those benefits may be available only when the desk is less busy, which can be unpredictable.

“These operational changes are consistent with other voyages where we have a very large number of Platinum guests,” the email noted.

The impacted cruise is an 11-night roundtrip Western Europe sailing from Dover, UK with port visits in France, Guernsey, Spain, Portugal, and Belgium before returning to the UK on Thursday, August 20.

Carnival Cruise Line does not release a breakdown of how many guests are at which tier of the loyalty program for different sailings. Carnival Legend can welcome 2,124 guests at double occupancy and it is likely that hundreds of guests onboard this particular cruise are at the Platinum VIFP level.

What Makes This Sailing Special

While it is not uncommon for guests to lose Platinum benefits on select sailings, such as the rare Greenland cruises, transatlantic voyages, or once-a-season repositioning cruises, this sailing from Dover is unique for another reason.

On Wednesday, August 12, there will be a total solar eclipse and Carnival Legend will be positioned at sea for prime viewing in the path of totality. This gives guests a rare and unique opportunity to see the astronomical event without obstruction (weather permitting).

Carnival Legend Cruise Ship
Carnival Legend Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: David Buzzard)

Cruise Hive shared the announcement of this special sailing when bookings opened in August 2024. This is Carnival Cruise Line’s first-ever solar eclipse cruise.

“The chance to see a total solar eclipse while having fun exploring the cultural richness of Spain, Portugal and France aboard Carnival Legend, is a truly special opportunity,” Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said when the voyage was announced.

It is possible there will be other special activities onboard on the day of the eclipse, such as guest astronomers, unique trivia, or themed treats to enjoy.

Last Sailings for VIFP Benefits

With Carnival’s VIFP loyalty program being retired at the end of August, this solar eclipse sailing is one of the last unique cruises that might have offered special benefits to eligible cruisers.

Read Also: Which Cruise Lines Match Loyalty Programs?

The new Carnival Rewards program offers different benefits with a spend-based stars and points system that is not a lifetime accumulation but must be re-earned every two years.

Cruise Hive has already reported how guests must opt in to the new program by the end of August. Membership will not be rolled over automatically from the VIFP program to Carnival Rewards.

Guests who are already Platinum in the VIFP system will remain Platinum under Carnival Rewards through December 31, 2028, and will receive a 10,000 boost of qualifying stars for every two-year earning cycle.

Priority embarkation and debarkation are still perks for Platinum guests under the Carnival Rewards program. It remains to be seen if those benefits may be limited on select voyages when many Platinum guests are setting sail after September 1.

Princess Cruises Moves Final Payment to 120 Days and Raises Deposits

Melissa Mayntz
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Princess Cruises Moves Final Payment to 120 Days and Raises Deposits

Key Aspects:

  • Princess Cruises is requiring earlier final payments and larger deposits for bookings made from September 2, 2026 and beyond.
  • These changes apply only to new bookings that set sail from January 1, 2027 and later.
  • The cruise line’s cancellation fee schedule has also been adjusted to better align with the new final payment date deadlines.

It can be hard planning a vacation months or even years in advance, and life can get in the way of any planned sailing. When that happens, booked guests rely on a cruise line’s final payment dates and cancellation policies to ensure they can recoup their deposit or have only a minimal change fee as they adjust their plans.

Princess Cruises has now adjusted its final payment policy and requires reservations to be fully paid 120 days before setting sail for all cruises regardless of sailing length. Previously, the final payment for shorter sailings was due just 90 days before sailing.

While as of press time Princess Cruises’ official website had not yet been updated with the new deadlines and fee schedules, communications about the changes have been sent to travel agents so they can assist their clients with updates and payments on the proper schedule.

The change in final payment due date will apply for all new bookings made on or after Wednesday, September 2, 2026 for voyages that set sail January 1, 2027 or later. Guest deposit rates have also been increased, and the cancellation fees have been adjusted to better align with the new final payment schedule.

This will make it more challenging for guests who prefer to book last-minute sailings or those who may make reservations but need a bit of extra time to verify their travel plans before paying in full.

“There are no grace periods or extensions for receipt of final payment on a booking. All final payments are due by the final payment date, or the booking will automatically be cancelled” Princess Cruises said in the communication sent to travel agents.

Princess Cruises also says it sends email reminders 14 days before final payment is due and again 7 days before it is due, in an effort to help guests avoid losing their vacation due to missed payment deadlines.

Deposits Also Increased

At the same time, Princess Cruises has also increased the amount required for the individual deposits for the first and second guests booked in each stateroom.

Previously, deposits on inside, oceanview, balcony, and mini-suite staterooms were $100 for the first and second guests for sailings of five days or less, and increased to $250 for sailings of 6-9 days; $400 for sailings of 10-44 days, and 30% of the fare for longer voyages and World Cruises.

Suite deposit rates were significantly higher, starting at $200 for the first and second guests on cruises of 5 days or less, and going up to $500 (6-9 days), and $800 (10-44 days). As with other stateroom types, a 30% deposit has been required for sailings of 45 days and longer, including World Cruises.

Crown Princess Sailing Alaska
Crown Princess Sailing Alaska (Photo Credit: Macklin Holloway)

Now, deposit rates for all stateroom types have been increased. For inside, oceanview, balcony, and mini-suites, the deposits are $125 (5 days or fewer), $300 (6-9 days), and $500 (10-44 days).

Suite deposit rates are now $250 (5 days or fewer), $600 (6-9 days), and $1,000 (10-44 days). For all stateroom types, including suites, the deposit for cruises of 45 days or longer, including World Cruises, remains at 30% of the fare.

These increases in deposits may make sailing with Princess Cruises less manageable for some travelers, though the overall cruise fares are not impacted.

Cancellation Fees Simplified

Finally, Princess Cruises has adjusted the fees if guests must cancel their bookings. Previously, there were different tiers of cancellation fees based on voyage length and when the cruise was cancelled relative to the sailing date. This gave travelers some flexibility if their plans changed, but that flexibility is now tightened.

Now all cruises from 1-44 days long are subject to the same cancellation fee schedule. If guests cancel before final payment, there are no additional fees other than forfeiting the initial (now higher) non-refundable deposit.

If a sailing is cancelled from 113-119 days before sailing, a fee of 25% of the fare applies. For cancellations 91-112 days out, the cancellation fee is 50%, while the fee is 75% if the sailing is cancelled from 61-90 days out.

For guests who elect to cancel their Princess Cruises vacation 60 days (or closer) before sailing, the cancellation fee is 100%, and there will be no refund given for any of the cruise fare. Previously, for short sailings of 13 days or less, that final deadline was 30 days.

More From Cruise Hive

Longer sailings (45 days or longer, along with full World Cruises) also have a newly adjusted cancellation fee schedule. If the voyage is cancelled more than 320 days before sailing, only the non-refundable deposit is forfeited, the same as for shorter cruises.

If a longer cruise is cancelled between 113-319 days prior to sailing, the fee is 30% of the fare (previously 15%), whereas if it is cancelled from 61-112 days before sailing the fee is 50%. Should guests cancel less than 60 days before sailing, the full fare is forfeited, and no refund applies.

Alleged Crime Ring Leader Arrested Boarding Cruise Ship in Italy

Melissa Mayntz
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Alleged Crime Ring Leader Arrested Boarding Cruise Ship in Italy

Key Aspects:

  • An alleged Italian drug dealer was arrested at the Port of Naples while attempting to board a cruise ship.
  • Vito “Viktor” Rizzo is believed by local authorities to lead a significant drug trafficking ring in Taranto.
  • The exact ship was not identified but cruise lines generally cooperate with local authorities for such arrests.

A Taranto man is not getting the vacation he hoped for following his arrest at the Port of Naples. Vito “Viktor” Rizzo is an alleged drug dealer and was arrested under a precautionary detention order issued as part of a larger investigation.

According to La Gazzetta del Mezzogiorno, 34-year-old Rizzo’s arrest stemmed from earlier drug dealing activity at his residence.

On May 19, 2026, Rizzo’s apartment was searched and another man, 19-year-old Simone Morrone, was allegedly caught in the act of selling drugs in the apartment at that time.

Local officers of the Taranto Flying Squad seized a range of evidence inside the apartment, including significant amounts of illegal substances and over €700 (approximately $806 USD) believed to be proceeds from drug sales and other illegal activity.

Also found at the scene was a list of work shifts for pushers, including notes on dealing accounts.

Rizzo was not present during the raid on May 19 but is believed by local authorities to be a leader in the drug trafficking scene, particularly in the Salinella neighborhood of Taranto, roughly 160 miles east of Naples.

He has previously had a range of luxury assets seized in connection with drug-related charges, including luxury vehicles and large sums of cash. Rizzo has also reportedly been part of violence between rival drug-dealing organizations in Taranto.

Cruise Port in Italy
Cruise Ships Docked in Naples, Italy (Photo Credit: trabantos)

Which Cruise Ship Was Rizzo Boarding?

The cruise ship Rizzo was attempting to board was not identified, nor was the exact date of the arrest disclosed. The original report was published in the evening on Monday, August 3, 2026, so it is likely the arrest may have happened over the weekend or on Monday morning.

Only two ships were present in Naples on Saturday, August 1: MSC Meraviglia and Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas.

MSC Meraviglia was visiting the city as a port of call midway through a 7-night Western Mediterranean itinerary that departed Barcelona on Tuesday, July 28. The ship had already visited Tunis and Palermo before arriving in Naples.

Odyssey of the Seas is currently homeported from Civitavecchia (Rome) and Naples was the last port visit on the ship’s 7-night Eastern Mediterranean voyage that departed on Sunday, July 26. Odyssey of the Seas had already visited ports in Greece and Turkey before arriving in Naples.

No ships visited or homeported from Naples on Sunday, August 2, but Princess Cruises’ Enchanted Princess and MSC World Europa were both in Naples on Monday, August 3.

Enchanted Princess was enjoying the visit to Naples as the last port on a 7-night roundtrip sailing from Civitavecchia that departed on Tuesday, July 28. The ship had already been to ports in Greece, Croatia, and Montenegro before arriving in Naples.

MSC World Europa was continuing a 7-night itinerary that set sail from Valletta, Malta on Wednesday, July 29 and included stops in Barcelona, Marseille, and Genoa before arriving in Naples. The ship continued on to a stop in Sicily before returning to Malta.

As none of the four ships is homeported from Naples, Rizzo was likely enjoying one of the sailings as a vacation when he was arrested.

More From Cruise Hive

Cruise lines typically cooperate fully with local authorities in such situations. Regular identification screenings are common both at homeports and ports of call depending on local regulations and customs and immigration laws.

Cruise Hive has regularly reported on arrests at different cruise ports for different charges, such as six individuals who were arrested on July 17 at Port Canaveral for outstanding warrants and probation violations, and a man arrested at PortMiami on July 31, several days after allegedly assaulting a local bartender.

Norwegian Cruise Line Details First Look at New Great Tides Waterpark

Melissa Mayntz
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Norwegian Cruise Line Details First Look at New Great Tides Waterpark

Key Aspects:

  • Norwegian Cruise Line has released a detailed first look at the new Great Tides Waterpark on Great Stirrup Cay.
  • The nearly 6-acre waterpark will debut with Norwegian Luna‘s visit on Friday, September 4, 2026.
  • 19 waterslides, an active river, cliff jumping, exclusive dining, private cabanas, and more are all part of the waterpark.

Guests eager for some excitement when visiting Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island destination in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, have a lot to look forward to in just one month. The cruise line has officially revealed a first look at the Great Tides Waterpark, scheduled to welcome its first guests on Friday, September 4.

“With just one month until the grand opening of Great Tides Waterpark, we’re excited to give guests a first look at what will become one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic destination experiences that can only be enjoyed when sailing with us,” said Marc Kazlauskas, Norwegian Cruise Line president.

The nearly 6-acre park will feature 19 waterslides with something for all ages and thrill-seekers to enjoy. The Great Slide, for example, will be the only four-person body slide in the Caribbean, giving guests a fun opportunity to race their family members and friends.

The dueling Breakwater Blaster slides use high-pressure jets to propel inner-tubes through steep drops and twists, another industry-first for cruise line private islands.

Most of the slides will originate from the impressive 170-foot Tidal Tower, which includes mat slides, inner-tube slides, and body slides from different heights.

Eight of the slides are kid-friendly and found in the colorful Splash Cay with its 9,000 square feet of aquatastic fun and playful water features.

Tidal Tower
Tidal Tower

Guests can jump right into the fun at the first private island cliff jumps ever introduced. Cliffside Cove features both 10- and 15-foot jumps for guests to try, the tallest such jumps in the Caribbean.

For guests who want to enjoy the park with just a bit less adrenaline (but still some action!), the 800-foot Wandering River is another industry-first with an immersive tunnel for a multi-sensory experience including stunning visual effects, as well as both lazy and active sections along its course.

Great Tides Waterpark, Great Stirrup Cay
Great Tides Waterpark, Great Stirrup Cay

Food to Fuel the Fun

While the highlight of the waterpark will undoubtedly be its diverse array of attractions, the food options offer island-inspired flavors to tempt guests’ tastebuds.

Low Tide Smoke is a slow-smoked barbecue joint offering favorites from ribs to wings to bbq pork nachos and more, while Catch of the Cay showcases premium seafood such as crispy shrimp rolls, golden-fried shrimp baskets, and seasoned waffle fries.

Stop by Tidal Treats for a sugar rush that includes handcrafted desserts like the Strawberry Red Velvet Sundae or the Ultimate Chocolate Brownie Sundae, both served in bubble waffle bowls. Swirl ice cream flavors from orange to chocolate to bubble gum will also be available.

If guests can’t quite choose what to curb their cravings, complimentary buffet dining will also be available inside Great Tides Waterpark.

For liquid refreshment, the Grotto Bar at Cliffside Cove will offer up-close views of cliff jumping, while the Floataway Bar is a swim-up (or rather, float-up) option in the heart of the Wandering River.

Interested guests should note that Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea unlimited drink package is valid while at Great Stirrup Cay, meaning drinks are included on the island for guests who have the package.

Relaxing in the Waterpark

Great Tides Waterpark isn’t only about fun, it’s also about relaxation and offering a great day for all guests. Private cabana rentals are available within the park, providing a home base for families and groups with diverse interests.

“From adrenaline-pumping attractions and family-friendly activities to unique dining experiences and places to relax, Great Tides Waterpark will showcase the innovative design, scale and adventure that await guests visiting the island,” said Kazlauskas.

Cabana
Cabana

“We’re creating even more ways for guests to enjoy their day in paradise without compromise. This beautiful island offers something for kids and adults alike, whether they’re a thrill seeker, in search of relaxation, or simply want a little bit of both.”

Complimentary lounge chairs and shade umbrellas are also spread throughout the park to provide ample seating in every area.

To minimize stress about protecting one’s belongings, complimentary lockers are available for stowing valuables. Beach towels are also provided for free use at the waterpark. Complimentary life jackets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Guests don’t even have to stress just to reach the park’s entrance, as a tram service will run to and from the entrance.

First Ships Scheduled to Visit

Norwegian Luna‘s August 29, 2026 departure will be the first cruise during which the waterpark will be available. The 3,565-guest ship will depart Miami and visit Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and Tortola before arriving at Great Stirrup Cay on September 4, the day before returning to the Sunshine State.

More From Cruise Hive

The Prima class ship will be the only vessel visiting on that day, followed by Norwegian Getaway on Sunday, September 6 as part of the ship’s 3-night Bahamas sailing leaving Miami on September 4.

Other ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, including Prima, Aqua, Bliss, Sun, Dawn, Epic, Escape, Joy, Jewel, and Gem all have multiple visits planned to Great Stirrup Cay through the end of 2026.

New Robot Is Now Crawling Beneath a Carnival Cruise Ship

Calvin Musquez
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New Robot Is Now Crawling Beneath a Carnival Cruise Ship

Key Aspects:

  • Carnival Cruise Line will begin employing a new hull-cleaning vehicle, designed by Norwegian company Jotun.
  • The vehicle, called the HullSkater, allows for remote monitoring and cleaning of a ship’s hull from below the water. 
  • Carnival Pride is the first ship to test the technology, with plans to expand to more of the fleet if it proves beneficial.

Carnival Cruise Line is taking further steps towards more sustainable cruising. The cruise line’s parent company, Carnival Corporation & plc, has pledged to be carbon-neutral by 2050 and has already made significant strides.

In its latest move towards that goal, Carnival has partnered with Jotun, a marine coatings and hull performance solutions company out of Norway. Carnival will introduce Jotun’s HullSkater device aboard the 88,500 gross-ton Carnival Pride.

The HullSkater is a remotely operated robotic vehicle that inspects and cleans the ship’s hull. Over time, rust and marine growth such as barnacles can accumulate on the bottom of a cruise ship.

While modern ships are equipped with special paints and coatings that help to minimize these issues, they do not eliminate them entirely. Regular hull cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep everything clean and safe. The crew can often be seen washing and cleaning the hull during port times.

However, a full hull cleaning is a laborious, manual process reserved for when a ship enters dry dock. Cruise Hive recently reported on Carnival Pride‘s own 22-day dry dock, during which the ship received many new enhancements, as well as general maintenance, including hull cleaning.

The HullSkater, meanwhile, can be deployed underwater, meaning this essential maintenance can happen more frequently and thoroughly while the ship is docked in port. The system uses cameras and sensors to travel along the hull of the ship, assess conditions, and clean as necessary.

This will help Carnival to remove any marine growth on Carnival Pride’s hull before it accumulates. Jari Oinas, AVP of fuel performance and decarbonization at Carnival, expressed excitement for the new technology.

“Maintaining a clean hull is essential for efficient ship operations, and the Hull Skating Solutions allows us to take a more proactive approach to hull maintenance,” said Oinas.

Carnival Hull Cleaning Robot Controls
Carnival Hull Cleaning Robot Controls

The concept is similar to the “grooming robot” employed by Royal Caribbean, first introduced aboard the 250,800 gross-ton Icon of the Seas. While that robot was not designed by Jotun, it employs a similar approach to proactive hull maintenance.

Carnival Pride is the first ship in Carnival’s fleet to employ the new technology. However, Carnival plans to collect operational data to assess the viability of incorporating it across more of the fleet.

How This New Technology Aids Sustainability Efforts

Much like how a more aerodynamic car improves fuel efficiency, the same is true of ships. Marine growth on a ship’s hull introduces some extra weight and drag, decreasing the ship’s efficiency. 

According to Carnival, marine growth can increase a ship’s propulsion power demand by up to 25–30%. The cruise line further reports that propulsion accounts for approximately 60% of a vessel’s total energy consumption.

By performing more regular cleanings of the ship’s hull, Carnival hopes to increase Carnival Pride’s efficiency and decrease fuel consumption. Carnival has been making strides to improve sustainability in its operations in recent years.

More From Cruise Hive

Carnival Cruise Line has made headway in expanding the use of LNG power across its fleet. This began with the 180,800 gross-ton Mardi Gras in 2020 and has since expanded to 11 total ships. Seven additional ships are planned to utilize LNG power by 2033.

According to Carnival Corporation’s 2025 Sustainability Report, the company has achieved an over 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 2019. Sustainability-enabling technologies like the HullSkater could play an important role in helping the company achieve its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

Port Tampa Bay Prepares Five Acres for New Cruise Terminal

Melissa Mayntz
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Port Tampa Bay Prepares Five Acres for New Cruise Terminal

Key Aspects:

  • A fill project has begun in the land redevelopment that will become the fourth cruise terminal at Port Tampa Bay.
  • The project is taking place at the old Banana Docks site and includes more than five acres of land.
  • Foundation development should be complete by late 2026 and the new cruise terminal is expected to open in 2029.

The east coast of Florida may get more attention from cruisers, but the west coast is going to make headlines as Port Tampa Bay begins development of what will become its fourth cruise terminal.

Filling operations have now begun at the Metroport, previously home to the iconic Banana Docks, which will provide the foundation for the new terminal. More than five acres of land must be restored at the site and stormwater infrastructure must be relocated to ensure the viability of the space.

This initial preparation is expected to be completed in late 2026, though exact timing may vary as the project progresses. Any severe weather impacts could also cause delays as is common with construction projects.

Once the filling is complete, a settlement period will ensure stability of the site before vertical construction on the terminal and parking facilities begins.

This will be the first new cruise terminal to be built at Port Tampa Bay in more than 25 years. While terminals have been updated over the years, it is likely the new terminal will feature even more updates and high-tech options to support more modern vessels.

“This project is about much more than adding another cruise terminal. It’s an investment in the future of Port Tampa Bay and the economy of West Central Florida,” said Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay President and CEO. 

“As cruise demand continues to grow, this terminal will strengthen our ability to serve existing cruise partners, attract new opportunities and support jobs, tourism and business throughout the region.”

The former Metroport site is at the north end of Ybor Channel and was where shipments of bananas were unloaded in the mid-1900s. While the tropical treat is no longer unloaded at the site, the area is fondly remembered by residents who hope the history will be remembered in the new terminal’s design.

The beginning of the physical development of the new terminal is welcome news, particularly after a proposed plan to build a new cruise port in Manatee County south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge was blocked.

What We Know About the New Terminal

While so specific design details about the new terminal have yet been confirmed, HDR and BEA Architects are partnering to design the new terminal and adjacent parking facilities. Initial renderings of the completed project have not yet been released.

BEA Architects has also worked on multiple cruise terminals in Miami as well as the dedicated Disney Cruise Line terminal at Port Canaveral and Barcelona’s Cruise Terminal B.

The new Port Tampa Bay terminal will be the fourth cruise terminal for the port and is expected to be completed in 2029. At this early juncture, no information has been released about which cruise lines or ships may use the facility.

Cruise Hive previously reported that the new terminal is part of overall port development plans that will include new cargo berths, warehouses, channel deepening, and other projects that will also support additional cruise ships.

More than 200 additional annual ship calls will be able to be accommodated at the new terminal. This could increase Port Tampa Bay’s operational capacity to more than two million passengers annually.

It is expected that the new terminal will generate an estimated $100 million in economic impact to the region, including direct jobs as well as services for the facility.

Norwegian Cruise Line Scraps Final Voyage for Norwegian Sky

Melissa Mayntz
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Norwegian Cruise Line Scraps Final Voyage for Norwegian Sky

Key Aspects:

  • The final sailing of Norwegian Sky has been cancelled due to ongoing Middle East tensions.
  • Booked guests will receive complete refunds and expanded future cruise credits as compensation.
  • Norwegian Sky will be transferred and eventually sold to Cordelia Cruises and will debut as Cordelia Sky in October 2026.

As tensions in the Middle East continue to fluctuate and the Persian Gulf remains part of the conflict, Norwegian Cruise Line has decided to cancel the last planned sailing for Norwegian Sky before the ship leaves the fleet.

The impacted cruise was to have departed Piraeus (Athens), Greece on Wednesday, September 9 for the 21-day repositioning cruise to Dubai. Cruise Hive already reported the voyage had been shortened to 18 days and would end in Muscat, Oman to avoid the Persian Gulf.

Now, the voyage is cancelled altogether and guests will receive full refunds and future cruise credits as compensation for the unfortunate change.

“Given the ongoing uncertainty in the region, we no longer have the level of confidence needed to deliver the experience you expect and deserve,” the email sent to booked guests explained.

“While this was a difficult decision, the safety and well-being of our guests and crew guided every step of the process, and we believe it is the right one.”

Guests booked on the voyage have expressed concerns about safety for the sailing, and a number of guests chose to cancel when the earlier changes were announced. Norwegian Cruise Line permitted those cancellations without penalties.

Compensation Expanded

Guests were previously offered a prorated 15% refund when the cruise was shortened. Now, because of the full cancellation, full refunds will be automatically processed back to the original form of payment.

In addition, the previous 15% future cruise credit that was also offered to guests will now be expanded to an additional 50% credit for the current voyage fare. The total amount of the credit will be adjusted based on the previous refund and is being offered as a gesture of appreciation.

“We recognize the flexibility, grace, and understanding so many of you have shown throughout this process, and we are sincerely grateful,” Norwegian Cruise Line said.

Norwegian Cruise Line Ship
Norwegian Sky Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: pio3)

The future cruise credit may be used for any published NCL sailing through December 31, 2027. This gives guests a good deal of time to choose and plan another cruise vacation.

Of course, that vacation cannot be aboard Norwegian Sky as the ship will soon be moved to Cordelia Cruises, a small cruise line based in India. Any other sailing in any cruise region, however, can be booked with the credit.

Read Also: The Former Norwegian Cruise Ships – What Happened to Them?

If guests booked airfare through Norwegian Cruise Line, those flights will be automatically cancelled and refunded. Guests who made independent flight arrangements are urged to contact their airline or travel agent for options. If guests incur change or cancellation fees, Norwegian Cruise Line will reimburse eligible expenses up to $300 (USD) per person.

Future Plans for Norwegian Sky

While her last sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line will not be happening, Norwegian Sky is not set to be scrapped, dismantled, or destroyed.

The vessel has been chartered by Cordelia Cruises and Cordelia Sky is showcased on the line’s official website, complete with the tropical flower hull artwork that has been so distinctive for the 2,004-guest ship.

October 2026 is listed as the ship’s arrival to the new line and she will be offering both roundtrip and one-way departures from Mumbai to Goa, with port visits to Lakshadweep and days at sea to enjoy.

The ship will also offer occasional two-night, three-day cruises to nowhere, perfect for a relaxing getaway to enjoy the 11 dining venues, more than a dozen onboard activities, and outstanding evening entertainment onboard.

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