A Carnival cruise guest expressed concerns about potential shark attacks while swimming in the ocean at the newly opened Celebration Key.
Brand Ambassador John Heald and the data both confirm that shark attacks are extremely unlikely.
If guests are still nervous, there are plenty of ways to participate in water-filled fun at Celebration Key that don’t involve swimming in the ocean.
With Discovery Channel’s annual “Shark Week” about to kick off on July 20, 2025, sharks are swimming into some cruisers’ minds.
This has some Carnival fans wondering if sharks might be enjoying Celebration Key right along with them, potentially putting their safety at risk.
As of July 19, 2025, Carnival Cruise Line’s new private island destination is officially open on the southern coast of Grand Bahama Island in the Bahamas.
“Have you ever seen sharks when cruising to the Caribbean? I mean not from the boat but in the sea, where people go swimming and where people go snorkeling,”a concerned parent asked Brand Ambassador John Heald.
They inquired on his Facebook page: “Somebody told me that Celebration Key is in the same place where there are lots of sharks. I will be going there on Conquest with my two children. Is it going to be safe to swim?”
It’s true that Grand Bahama is famous for its sharks, particularly around an area called Tiger Beach, which is about 20 miles off the coast of Grand Bahama’s West End.
Tiger Beach is known for its tiger shark population (hence the name), which have been known to be aggressive toward humans. Even so, shark attacks are not common.
“Celebration Key is part of Grand Bahama. There’s no concerns with sharks that I have seen reported by our guests or onboard teams,” Heald confirmed.
“I can definitely say there will be no sharks tomorrow or throughout next week because all the sharks are appearing on National Geographic because it’s shark week,” Heald then quipped.
Believe it or not, Carnival will actually be offering a “glass bottom boat & shark experience” at Celebration Key, which costs $79.99 per adult and $69.99 per child.
As part of the shore excursion, guests will visit the world famous “Shark Junction,” where sharks congregate and have been hand-fed by humans for decades.
How Common are Shark Attacks in the Bahamas?
The Bahamas ranks ninth globally for the most number of shark attacks, but this ranking makes the situation feel a lot more dire than it is.
In reality, shark attacks are extremely rare. Only 34 total shark attacks have been recorded for all of the Bahamas since 1580, which is a period of over 440 years.
The most recent shark attack impacting a cruise guest was in January of 2024, and it wasn’t at Grand Bahama Island.
The incident actually unfolded at a popular shark experience at Blue Adventures by Stuart Cove, where a 10-year-old boy was bitten while swimming in the shark tank. The child was thankfully expected to make a full recovery.
Shark
While Carnival guests are unlikely to encounter a shark, it’s also not unheard of for sharks to swim around people. Lots of activity and splashing can attract the animals because they are naturally curious creatures.
However, most sharks do not perceive people as prey, which is part of why attacks are so rare.
If the parent who wrote to Heald is too freaked out, they may also prefer to swim in Celebration Key’s Starfish Lagoon or Calypso Lagoon, which are both large, freshwater pools, where the absence of sharks is guaranteed.
Celebration Key has officially opened with the arrival of Carnival Vista, the first ship to visit the new private destination on Grand Bahama island.
Opening festivities included live music, dignitary visits, fireworks, a ribbon cutting, and much more to celebrate the first ship visit.
Celebration Key cost $600 million to build and Phase 2 of the project is already underway to extend the pier and accommodate more ships.
It’s a day for Carnival Cruise Line to celebrate as the very first ship and her 4,800 guests arrived at Celebration Key, officially opening the new Grand Bahama destination with appropriate fanfare.
Fun festivities welcomed the first Fun Ship to call on the new destination as Carnival Cruise Line “unlocked paradise” with a symbolic padlock, fireworks, and colored smoke to symbolize that Celebration Key is now officially open.
A colorful band and singers welcomed guests to the island, and they were able to enjoy a fun-filled day of sunshine, excursions, crystalline lagoons, and so much more.
You can watch a video of the opening ceremony and interviews below:
Cruise line executives and celebrities were on hand for the occasion, including Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy, Carnival Corporation CEO Josh Weinstein, and Chief “Fun” Officer Shaquille O’Neal, as well as Bahamian officials and local representatives.
“Today marks an extraordinary milestone for Carnival as we open the first phase of our initial $600M investment, with more to come,”Duffy said.“We’ve built the ultimate beach day for our guests whether they crave fun in the sun or relaxation under a palm tree.”
In her opening remarks, Duffy noted that Celebration Key has been a dream of the cruise line’s for more than 25 years, and it’s a great occasion to see that dream now a reality.
The opening celebrations included not only unlocking the padlock to the iconic Suncastle, home to two racing waterslides, but also a ribbon cutting at the Bahamian retail and artistic village, Lonoko Cove, and a champagne toast at the adults-only Pearl Cove Beach Club.
For those guests looking to stay active while visiting Celebration Key, Shaquille O’Neal threw the first shot at the basketball court (but no word on whether he made it or not!).
Celebration Key Opening Ceremony
When asked about his first impressions of the now-open destination, Weinstein had nothing but positive feedback.
“It blows away anything out there,”he said.“This is going to be our home for the next 50 years, and it’s only going to get better from today. Congratulations to everyone who made this a reality.”
Also on the island for this inaugural visit has been John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador, providing ongoing comments, tips, and “walkies” videos so even more Carnival fans can enjoy the celebrations.
Heald showed off such amazing features as the in-pool swings at the swim-up bar, the loads of relaxing and complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas, and the first two guests down the waterslides.
He also included an up-close view of one of the private rental cabanas in Pearl Cove, complete with Coke products. Carnival Cruise Line has recently announced a switch to the popular beverage provider.
Surprising Things Guests Need to Know When Visiting Celebration Key
Heald didn’t just show off the features of Celebration Key, but he also spent the day answering questions from guests on the island and those curious about the new destination.
Some top points he noted were that the food portions are quite generous, there is a shallow entry end to the lagoons, multiple lifeguards are on duty at all aquatic areas, guests can bring their own pool floats if they wish, and yes, there is a coffee shop on the island.
Most surprising is that guests need to bring beach towels with them from their cruise ship. At this moment, it does not appear that towel stations are available on the island.
Carnival Vista Guests Enjoying Celebration Key
This may be a supply issue, as it is hard to believe that such a key aspect of a beach and pool oriented destination would have been overlooked.
The first impression from many guests included such superlatives as “beautiful” “gorgeous” “incredible” and more, and guests are truly in for a treat when they visit the new destination.
Today’s festivities only opened Phase 1 of the overall Celebration Key project, as Phase 2 is already underway with a pier extension that will accommodate even more ships.
A total of 20 Carnival ships will visit Celebration Key this year, with sailings departing from 10 US homeports with the destination on their itineraries. Up next will be Carnival Conquest on Sunday, July 20.
The first Excel-class ship to visit will be Mardi Gras on Friday, July 25. Eventually, the largest ships ever built for Carnival Cruise Line, the Project Ace vessels, will also be calling on the destination as they debut in 2029, 2031, and 2033.
Celebrity Beyond is experiencing technical difficulties that have slowed her speeds significantly.
Because of the unspecified technical issue, her return to Port Miami on July 20, 2025, will be delayed by several hours.
The following 7-night cruise that would have embarked on July 20 is now delayed by at least one day to accommodate repairs.
The up to 3,260 guests onboard Celebrity Beyond are getting a slightly longer cruise than they bargained for, while the passengers waiting to embark on July 20, 2025, will have to be extra patient.
Celebrity Cruises’ Edge-class ship is en route to Miami, Florida, to conclude a 7-night sailing on July 20, but is sailing at slower than normal speeds due to an unspecified technical issue onboard.
Cruise tracking data currently shows that the 140,600-gross ton ship is sailing at speeds of around 16 knots per hour, which is below her usual speeds of around 22 knots per hour.
“Captain Kirk has announced that Celebrity Beyond is experiencing technical difficulties and will now be arriving late into Miami tomorrow the 20th approximately 2pm,”a current passenger reported.
Again, the cause of the technical issue has not been confirmed by the cruise line, but it is believed to be related to one of the engines.
“Currently on board. There was some type of malfunction and we are docking late. I have heard but have been unable to confirm that one of the engines shut off. As a result we are moving very slow,”another guest shared.
“A lady who was on the Beyond RIGHT NOW, shot a picture from Eden at the stern! They are on one propeller,”a third person echoed.
It’s unclear if current passengers will be compensated in any way for changes to airfare and travel plans due to the delayed disembarkation.
Some guests have said that an “enhanced brunch” will be offered from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 20 as a way of making the most of the delay.
Next Sailing Delayed
It appears that the propulsion issues did not kick in until a planned sea day at the end of the current sailing, which means there were no major itinerary changes.
The next voyage, however, will have a more significant impact. Guests booked on the 7-night sailing embarking on July 20, 2025, will be delayed by at least one day.
“Beyond is currently experiencing a technical issue and we are working to address it. While this does not impact the safety or seaworthiness of the ship, we are sailing at reduced speed which will delay our arrival into Miami tomorrow,” Celebrity Cruises wrote to future guests.
“Once we arrive into Miami, our technical experts will assess the situation and make repairs as needed. As a result, the current plan is to have you board on Monday, July 21st in Terminal C at Port Miami,” the letter continued.
At the very least, this means that the first port call on the itinerary, which is scheduled for Nassau, Bahamas, on July 21, will need to be scrapped or rescheduled.
The itinerary also includes calls on St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, on July 23 and on Philipsburg, St. Maarten, on July 24.
I’ve been on hundreds of cruises and sailed on almost every major cruise line. While cruising can be an affordable way to travel, all those sailings do add up.
That’s why I’ve fine-tuned some key tactics for saving money on my cruise adventures. Here are the 19 ways I always save money while on a cruise, so you can save some cash, too, whether you’re going on your first cruise or your 30th.
1. If you must shop, take advantage of duty-free price match guarantees
Shopping at the Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Joni Hanebutt)
Take advantage of duty-free price match guarantees. On many ships, some of the duty-free stores will offer a price match guarantee to get you to shop with them, versus going to a duty-free store in one of the ports.
So, if you buy an item on the ship, get into port and see the item at a cheaper price, you can get a refund.
I’ve had this happen to me on Royal Caribbean ships in the past, buying alcohol in one of the duty-free liquor stores on the ship, then found it at a cheaper price in port.
To get the price match, though, you do have to take a photo of the price in the port’s duty-free store, for proof. Then, you show it to the store on the ship and you’ll get your refund after the fact.
2. Know your duty-free allowance
CBP Confiscate Cigarettes from Cruise Passengers at Long Beach (Credit: CBP)
While you’re shopping, make sure you know your duty-free allowance, and don’t spend over it. In the United States, you can spend typically up to $800 on duty-free goods, but then after that, you will have to pay duty on anything above $800.
Your cruise line may also provide more direct information regarding duty-free allowances, as Carnival Cruise Line lays out in its allowances guidelines.
3. Consider if you even need to shop at all
Carnival Cruise Line Shops (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
I’m not going to tell you to not shop on the ship altogether, but keep in mind that duty-free shopping isn’t always the humongous bargain you think it’s going to be, and if you’re really trying to budget, you don’t want to spend your hard-earned cash on luxury non-necessities.
However, if you really want to shop, you’re going to shop. As such, just make sure you follow the above tips to save money as you do so.
4. Book all of your packages ahead of time
Drinks on Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock)
Whether it’s a dining package, WiFi package, excursions — whatever it may be — if you’re planning on purchasing a certain package anyway, make sure to do so in advance of your cruise. The longer you wait, the more the package will cost.
For example, you could spend 10% or more on a WiFi package when sailing with Carnival, if you wait until you’re onboard to buy it versus buying in advance.
Better yet, consider if you need the package, especially WiFi, at all. I find that I really enjoy completely disconnecting during some cruises, only checking email or social feeds when in port.
5. Only buy WiFi for one device
Cruise Wi-Fi
If you are planning on buying a WiFi package, consider only buying a package for one device. You and your partner can easily share a device for the duration of your cruise and you’ll cut your WiFi costs quite a bit.
For example, if you’re paying for a Royal Caribbean Voom package for a six-night sailing, you might pay $25 per day for one person/device, but $17 per day per person/device for two people. While it seems like a discount at first glance, by opting to pay for only one person/device, you’ll pay $150 versus $204.
6. Ask before you buy
Royal Caribbean Stateroom (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz / Cruise Hive)
You’re on your cruise and you realize that you forgot to bring some body lotion. Or maybe you need an extension cable to charge all your devices. Maybe it’s chilly at night and you want a blanket.
Whatever the case may be, stop before you march down to one of the ship shops and buy a branded blanket or an overpriced bottle of lotion. Always ask your cabin steward if they can provide these items first.
You’ll find that cabin stewards will give you a range of items, totally for free, so you don’t need to buy them. I’ve asked for tape, hangers, toiletries, blankets, extension cables and more, and gotten them. I’ve even known cruisers to ask for CPAP machines and, believe it or not, the cabin steward came through.
7. Bring your own soda
Pepsi on Carnival Cruise (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
If you like to have a soda or two every day, you may think that you need to buy a beverage package, but, depending on your cruise line, you might not need to. Carnival Cruise Line, for example, will allow you to bring 12 sealed, unopened cans of non-alcoholic beverages, per person, onto the ship.
This is more than enough to last you a full cruise if you’re just drinking a few per day — and it’ll save you from spending $11.21 per day per person for a Carnival Bottomless Bubbles drink package.
8. Bring your own wine, too
Photo Credit: Joni Hanebutt / Shutterstock
On a similar note, if you’re planning on drinking during your cruise, but not all that much, skip the drink package and the expensive cost of buying just a single bottle of wine at a special dinner, and bring your own wine aboard.
Most cruise lines will allow you to bring a single bottle of wine per person onboard, so long as you pay a corkage fee (if you’re consuming the wine in a restaurant). On Carnival Cruise Line, I paid a corkage fee of $15 per bottle, but you can avoid that by drinking in your stateroom.
9. Bring a refillable water bottle or tumbler
Travel Water Bottle (Photo Credit: Darya Lavinskaya / Shutterstock)
On the note of beverages, I always like to pack a refillable water bottle and/or tumbler. Not only is this good for being able to refill your own bottle easily at water refill stations around the ship, but you can actually refill the bottle with soda at the buffet, for free.
So, if you had dinner at the buffet, before you leave, fill up your bottle and take it back with you to your stateroom for a free extra beverage. By the way, this is a great option that allows you to adjust the size, which is ideal for travel and when visiting ports.
10. Take advantage of loyalty perks
Crown and Anchor Society Loyalty Passenger Event (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
If you’re a frequent cruiser, then joining a cruise loyalty program is a no-brainer, but even if you’re not, you should still join the loyalty program. The introductory membership tier in most loyalty programs still come with some extra perks.
For example, with Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society, as soon as you join the loyalty program, you get benefits such as multiple coupons for 10–50% discounts on wine, beer or soda; two coupons for 50% off a Johnny Rockets milkshake; and 25% off a coffee.
11. Avoid specialty venues and keep to the inclusive basics
Included Cruise Buffet (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz / Cruise Hive)
I have dined at some amazing specialty restaurants on cruise ships. However, when I’m cruising on a budget, I know that’s not always the best place to spend my money. So, if you’re trying to make your cruise as cheap as possible, stick to the inclusive basics.
Most ships have more than enough to last you for the entire cruise. For example, when sailing on Oasis of the Seas, you have 10 complimentary dining options, so you could easily change up your dining experience every day, with few repeats.
If you really want to try a specialty restaurant, see if they have a lunch menu with cheaper a la carte prices. You can also simply walk up to the host stand and ask for a discounted reservation, and you might just get one!
12. Hold out for discounts
MSC Cruise Deck in Miami (Photo Credit: venuswix)
There are two times during your cruise when you can expect to get discounts on extras like spa treatments or specialty dining (beyond lunchtime): on embarkation day and on port days.
Venues expect for guests to be still getting their lay of the land on embarkation day, and to be off the ship on port days, so they’ll offer sweet deals to draw in customers. As such, if you’re thinking of splurging, hold out to see what kind of discount you’ll get.
13. Bring your own beach gear
Loungers on Harvest Caye Beach (Photo Credit: James R. Martin)
If you plan on spending a day at the beach while you’re in port, bring all your own beach gear rather than waiting to rent it on the beach at a premium.
Just make sure that you’re not bringing anything that’s prohibited on the ship (for instance, Carnival Cruise Line doesn’t allow you to bring portable speakers, surfboards or kiddie pools on board).
Similarly, in some ports, bring a pool towel from the ship with you, versus renting a towel on the beach.
This might sound a little counterintuitive. After all, if you’re in your cabin, you’re not spending money. However, hear me out.
Sometimes, if I really want to save money on a cruise and I’m sailing on a new ship where there are tons of (free!) things to do and where I plan on spending a lot of time in port, I can save a lot of money by booking the cheapest room possible and then just not spending much time there.
I only use it for sleeping and otherwise I’m out enjoying the ship and port.
15. Pack everything you think you even could possibly need
I’m talking about all the little things you have in your medicine cabinet “just in case.” The Band-Aids. The pain reliever. The stuff for an upset stomach.
Bring it, because if you do drink one too many and have a hangover, or you get food poisoning from that little place in port, you’re going to pay a premium for OTC medications on the ship — and these are things you really can’t do without if you’re ill.
Typically, the main dining room, which is always going to be free, will give you a dinner menu with an appetizer, entrée and dessert section. Don’t feel as if you’re limited to one selection from each section!
You can actually ask for as many items from each section as you want (unless otherwise noted)! You can ask for second helpings! So, get two appetizers and two desserts. Order both the steak and the pasta.
17. Drink while you’re off the ship
Fat Tuesday’s Cozumel
If you do like to drink a little bit more while you’re on vacation, but you don’t like the drink package price tag, save your drinking for when you’re off the ship. Prices at local watering holes are typically cheaper than the ship’s prices (and the experience is potentially more authentic!).
Just be careful while in port and don’t drink to excess, as that becomes a potential safety hazard. You don’t want to get lost or injured, or miss the ship. You also don’t want to be one of those pier runners that you will be reminded of for the remainder of the cruise!
18. Buy cruise line stock
Cruise Ships in Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: MikeDotta)
Maybe you’re just a savvy spender rather than stretched for cash. You don’t want to dump hundreds on cruise extras, but you like a good investment.
Consider cruise line stocks. Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line all offer benefits to shareholders who own at least 100 shares, in the form of onboard credits. It’s an easy way to get something free, while investing.
19. Keep an eye on your cruise price
Booking Bonus
Lastly, even after you’ve booked your cruise, keep an eye on your sailing’s price. If it goes down at some point between now and embarkation day, you can ask for a refund to get the newly discounted price.
Make your cruising experience as cheap as possible — so you can go on more cruises!
Cruising at its most basic is a very affordable way to travel, but the costs of a cruise add up very quickly. When you start buying WiFi, specialty dining, drinks, excursions, duty-free items and other nice-to-haves, you end up paying thousands more than you intended.
Even when I don’t necessarily have to, I like to take advantage of some of these easy ways to save money and make my cruise as cheap as humanly possible — so I can save my cash for booking more cruises in the future!
Due to erosion, some of the Mabrika Cove family cabanas at Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point have lost their private beaches.
Stairs that previously led to the shore now lead to steep dropoffs.
Even so, the cabanas remain popular and continue to book out well ahead of scheduled visits.
If a fix isn’t made soon, Disney Cruise Line guests are worried that an accident is just waiting to happen at the cabanas on the cruise line’s second private island.
Recent guests, who were expecting to rent their own beachside oasis, were surprised to find that the stairs of their cabana were unusable and led to a steep drop off because of seemingly rapid erosion.
“You could see the beach wash away while swimming in front of it. I don’t know how anything will be left soon…There was no way we could have stayed and swam there safely,” a recent guest shared, along with pictures and video of multiple cabanas.
The frustrated cruiser, who had rented cabana 21, saw their own back stairs lead to a drop off with rocks at the bottom instead of soft sand.
The cruiser did say that the stairs had been roped off, but it didn’t seem to stop them from trying to take advantage of their “private beach.”
“When we got to the deck, we were shocked to see all the huge rocks in front…They were not smooth, and they varied greatly in depth, so you had to walk very carefully and slowly or you would end up accidentally falling into a hole or crack,” they explained.
“We got to clearer water, but the waves and current were so strong that we kept getting pushed back into the rocks. The adults could barely stop themselves, and the kids were straight up being thrown into the rocks,” the guest warned.
There are 20 total Mabrika Cove Cabanas at the private destination, and while it was previously known that conditions became more rocky from cabanas 16 to 21, it does seem like the erosion has worsened quickly.
Several guests who had stayed in the cabanas as recently as May of 2025 said that “it didn’t look like this at all” during their visit.
What to Know Before Reserving a Cabana
Per this recent cruiser’s report, they would not recommend booking a Mabrika Cove Cabana outside of cabanas 1 through 5 due to the beach erosion as of their visit to the private island on July 17, 2025.
They also recommended that adults sailing without kids should reserve one of the six cabanas at the adults-only Serenity Bay area.
That said, Disney Cruise Line is one of the most safety-oriented brands out there, and likely would not continue renting out the cabanas if there was a significant risk to guests.
More likely than not, the cruise line is already working on a fix to stabilize the erosion, such as installing a sea wall or planting native vegetation.
Despite these issues, the private cabanas are still a hot commodity and are usually fully reserved well in advance of planned port calls.
Each cabana is furnished with comfortable seating inside and out, a mini fridge, beverages, plush towels, charging outlets, and sunscreen, which adds some extra luxury to the experience.
There is even a provided smart pad for ordering snacks, drinks, or whatever else guests might need during the day.
Cabanas 3 through 19 are standard cabanas that can accommodate up to 10, but start at just under $1,000 for six guests.
Cabanas 1, 2, 20, and 21 are larger Grand Cabanas that can accommodate up to 16 guests, but start at $1,375 for up to 10 guests.
For both types of cabanas, additional guests can be added until capacity is met for a cost of $56 per person.
At least 18 Filipino crew members from Carnival Sunshine were detained and deported by Customs and Border Patrol agents in Norfolk, Virginia.
The crew members all possessed valid visas and advocacy groups say that they were wrongfully deported without due process.
The unexpected removal of crew members is not only nerve wracking, but can also hinder cruise ship operations.
In addition to the usual sights and sounds at the bustling Port of Norfolk, the phrase “due process is the law” could be heard from protestors chanting outside of the Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center on July 20, 2025.
The protestors were seeking justice for at least 18 Filipino crew members who were working and living onboard Carnival Sunshine before they were allegedly wrongfully detained and deported.
The crew members, who all possessed valid 10-year C-1/D visas, were put in handcuffs and removed from the Carnival ship by Customs and Border Patrol officers. The exact date of their removal is unclear.
As part of their deportment, their visas were revoked and the individuals have been banned from re-entering the US for 10 years.
The cruise ship employees were accused of possessing child pornography, but advocacy groups are firm in that there was insufficient evidence to prove this and that the workers were not allowed a lawyer or a trial before being sent back to the Philippines.
“These crew members are hardworking parents and spouses with clean records, having passed rigorous background checks to obtain their visas,”a joint statement from the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) and the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) read.
“Their sudden removal, combined with the revocation of their visas and a decade-long re-entry ban, has brought not only humiliation but also financial devastation to their families,” the statement continued.
In a statement to local Norfolk outlet WAVY, Carnival said that the cruise line was cooperating with law enforcement.
“This is a law enforcement matter. Carnival always cooperates with law enforcement investigations. We also have active training and education programs to make sure our crew members follow internet safety guidelines,”a Carnival spokesperson said.
The former employees have shared that their contracts with the cruise line were terminated before they made it home to their families.
The Impact on Cruising
Carnival Sunshine is currently alternating between 6-night sailings to Bermuda and 8-night sailings to the Eastern Caribbeanout of Norfolk, Virginia, which is the 3,002-guest ship’s year-round homeport.
Reports show that CBP agents have been boarding the ship on turn-around days since February 2025, and an additional eight Filipino crew members have already allegedly been detained but not deported.
This means that every return to Norfolk is likely full of fear and anxiety for the approximately 1,040 crew members onboard, and that more deportations could be possible in the future.
Carnival Crew in Norfolk (Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line)
Notably, several international crew members were also already deported from two ships sailing to the Great Lakes under Victory Cruise Lines on July 9 and 11, 2025.
The 13 crew members were detained (and later deported) during calls to other US destinations while working onboard Victory I and Victory II, both of which are small ships with a capacity for 180 guests.
At least one of these crew members was also allegedly charged with the possession of child pornography.
The unexpected removal of crew members, regardless of the reason, can certainly throw a wrench into cruise ship operations.
Not only does it create an environment of fear among employees and anxiety about similar incidents happening in the future, but this can lead to staffing issues onboard.
Until crew members can be replaced, which takes time, other employees may have to take on extra work and there may be gaps in services available or a dip in quality for some services onboard.
Following her propulsion difficulties, Celebrity Beyond‘s July 20, 2025 departure has been completely cancelled.
Celebrity Cruises is fully refunding guests’ cruise fare and offering a 100% future cruise credit as well.
There is no word yet on whether or not additional cruises will be impacted by repair efforts.
Guests hoping to board Celebrity Beyond on Monday morning, July 21, 2025 have learned that their sailing, which has already been delayed by one day, is now completely cancelled.
The news comes as the three-year-old ship is suffering from propulsion difficulties. Unfortunately, intermediate repairs are not enough to permit the ship to sail the 7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary.
“During our previous voyage, the ship experienced a technical issue that affected its speed. While our teams have been working diligently, we need additional time to complete necessary assessments and repairs,”the email notification read.
“After carefully considering all options, we’ve made the difficult decision to cancel the July 20, 2025 sailing.”
The options the cruise line considered may have included alternative ports of call that could be reached at slower speeds, such as the Bahamas, Grand Turk, or the Dominican Republic.
Unfortunately, at this time of year, those ports are already crowded with summer sailings and berths may not be available. It is also possible that the ship’s “technical issue” is more complex than initially believed and more in-depth repairs are necessary.
Guests aboard Celebrity Beyond‘s previous sailing, a 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary, noted that the ship had slowed significantly during her return to Miami. Photos of the ship’s wake shared on social media seem to show just one of the Azipod engines functioning fully.
Of course, cruise ship propulsion systems are complex engineering marvels and it is possible the engine was taken offline to facilitate repairs on another part of the system.
While these are unusual circumstances for Celebrity Beyond, which just entered service in April 2022, Celebrity Cruise Line is doing everything possible to make up for their guests’ disappointment.
Not only are all travelers receiving a full refund of their now-cancelled cruise, including non-refundable deposits, but they are also receiving a future cruise credit for 100% of their cruise fare. The amount of the credit will vary based on individual guests’ fare prices and does not include other pre-purchased amenities.
The future cruise credit can be used for any Celebrity Cruises sailing within the next year, giving guests plenty of options to rebook on a different voyage. The new cruise does not have to be aboard Celebrity Beyond.
The cruise line is also offering reimbursement for alterations in flight plans as needed, as well as another hotel night. Change fees up to $200 per person for domestic (US) flights and $400 for international flights will be considered, and the hotel reimbursement is up to $250.
The hotel reimbursement is in addition to the Sunday-night hotel reimbursement already offered for the ship’s delayed return to Miami, and now gives guests time to make their travel plans to return home.
Despite the generous compensation, impacted guests are naturally disappointed at missing out on their cruise vacation. Still, many appear to be making the most of the unexpected situation and visiting the Florida Keys or otherwise enjoying the Miami area instead, while making plans for their future free cruise.
At this time, there is no indication whether or not Celebrity Beyond‘s next sailing, another 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary, may be impacted.
Guests booked on that July 27 departure will want to stay in close contact with Celebrity Cruises in case of adjustments to their vacation plans.
A new, custom floating platform from AquaBanas will debut this fall with Villa Vie Odyssey in the South Pacific.
Guests aboard the residential cruise ship Villa Vie Odyssey are in for a unique and intimate experience when they visit the South Pacific in late 2025 and they will have opportunities no cruise traveler has ever had before.
When the 24,300-gross ton ship is visiting destinations such as the Maldives, Seychelles, and other exotic and highly desirable ports of call, a new floating platform from AquaBanas will be deployed directly from the vessel.
Called a Customized Floating Oasis, the large, inflatable platform has been designed exclusively for Villa Vie Odyssey and will serve as a “Floating Marine and Recreation Hub” for guests aboard.
When the ship is anchored at different ports, the hub can be deployed from either side of the vessel to offer extra space for sunbathing as well as a launching point for watersports such as kayaking or jet skiing.
The space will also offer some loungers and a cutout for an in-ocean pool, and can even be used to help tendering operations in ports that may not have the infrastructure to support cruise ship visits.
Villa Vie Residences Floating Platform
“With our global itinerary, we often visit breathtaking destinations that require tendering to reach shore,”explained Mikael Petterson, Chairman of Villa Vie Residences.
“Our residents are seeking more than just a place to live – they want experiences. This innovative addition reflects our commitment to reimagining life at sea, combining luxury, exploration, and community.”
This is also a great expansion for AquaBanas, introducing their customizable product in a new and innovative way.
“Working with Villa Vie Residences aligns perfectly with our vision of creating unforgettable aquatic experiences,”said Mark Anastasia, CEO of AquaBanas.“This oasis will redefine how people enjoy the adventures and luxuries of ocean living.”
About AquaBanas
AquaBanas is well known for its premium inflatable platforms, slides, and loungers, which are already familiar to cruise guests at different destinations.
Similar platforms are found at RelaxAway Half Moon Cay as well as the brand new Celebration Key in the Bahamas. They are offered for rentals during ship visits, giving guests a fun and unique way to enjoy their time on the islands.
The floating platforms do come at a premium price, however. On Celebration Key, the cost is $499.99 for a full day rental that can accommodate up to eight guests.
There is no indication that guests aboard Villa Vie Odyssey will need to pay any fees to enjoy the platform, though its availability will undoubtedly be dependent on weather conditions and occupancy limits.
Villa Vie Residences Floating Platform
The refurbished and updated ship can welcome up to 929 guests, but there is no way the platform could accommodate everyone at once.
Still, everyone is bound to enjoy the option and make use of it during the ship’s unique Continual World Cruise, particularly if it is available at further ports outside the South Pacific.
Who knows what may be next? AquaBanas already offers several customizable configurations in different sizes, including a regulation-sized floating pickleball court, so perhaps pickleball that is REALLY at sea?
Villa Vie Odyssey set sail in October 2024, following months of setbacks and delays that had some guests nervous about the ship’s condition and what they could expect for their new oceangoing lifestyle.
Now with the addition of AquaBanas to the ship, that lifestyle is getting even more ocean-oriented and exciting, no matter where the ship may be sailing.
And hey, the sky – or the ocean – could be the limit! How about an anchored AquaBana day right at the Equator? Who knows what might be possible with the flexibility the new custom platform can provide!
Princess Cruises is updating both the Premier and Plus add-on packages with new benefits on all sailings.
Less-used benefits are being removed from both packages, such as Medallion shipping and fitness classes.
Updated packages will be on sale from July 22, 2025, for sailings in 2026 and later.
Princess Cruises is keeping guests at the forefront of onboard experiences with updates and additions to its popular Premier and Plus packages, giving cruisers even more benefits and flexibility with their travel plans.
While this does come with a price increase as well, guests will be amazed at the new options that are sure to be appreciated, especially as they come directly from guest feedback and requests.
The Premier Package will now include a new shore excursion credit up to $300 for the longest voyages (21 days and longer), with smaller credits of $200 for sailings from 10-20 days and $100 for cruises from 6-9 days.
The package still features the most popular amenities guests enjoy the most, including the unlimited Premier Beverage Package, unlimited dining for both casual and specialty venues, wi-fi access for up to four devices, reserved show seating, and more.
The less extensive Plus package is also updated to double the casual dining meals for each sailing. Now, guests can enjoy four meals at delicious venues like Kai Sushi, Plank’s BBQ, the Salty Dog Gastropub, and Alfredo’s Pizzeria, depending on the venues present on individual ships.
Other included options in the Plus Package are the Plus Beverage Package, wi-fi for a single device, and waived fees for room service and OceanNow delivery.
Both packages also include the daily crew appreciation gratuities, ensuring guests aren’t surprised by lump sum charges during their sailing.
“By thoughtfully evolving our packages, we’re ensuring they reflect what our guests truly desire, more flexibility, enhanced culinary experiences, and opportunities to explore ashore, all the while retaining the exceptional benefits they’ve come to expect,”said Alfredo Jimenez, Princess Cruises Vice President of Onboard Revenue.
“Ultimately, it’s about delivering an even more rewarding and personalized vacation experience.”
What Will the New Packages Cost?
The new enhancements do come with a cost, however. Benefits that have historically had “lower usage” have been removed, such as the premium desserts, Medallion shipping, fitness classes, and juice bar access.
Furthermore, the prices for both packages have been increased, though not as much as one might think for what are sure to be popular additions.
The Premier Package is increasing by $10 per person per day and will now be a $100 daily charge, while the Plus Package is only increasing $5 per person per day to $65.
Onboard the new Sphere class ships, Sun Princess and Star Princess, the rates will be $5 higher per day for each package – $105 per person, per day for the Premier Package and $70 per person per day for the Plus Package.
This higher cost reflects the even greater number of options aboard the newest and largest ships in the Princess Cruises fleet.
Interested guests should note that these are pre-cruise prices for each package. Prices are always subject to change.
All told, the savings for guests to indulge in the packages can be as high as 50-70% compared to purchasing different amenities separately.
The updated Princess Premier and Princess Plus packages will be available for sale from Tuesday, July 22, 2025 for voyages sailing in 2026 everywhere Princess Cruises sails, from Alaska to Africa and the Mediterranean to Asia and the South Pacific, including the exciting Total Eclipse Voyage coming in August 2026.
