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Additional ‘Love Boat’ Cast Added for 2025 Themed Cruise

Princess Cruises News

Lissa Poirot

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Jul 28, 2025

Additional ‘Love Boat’ Cast Added for 2025 Themed Cruise

Cruisers who grew up watching The Love Boat in the 1970s and 1980s once again have a chance to set sail with the brand that inspired the hit TV show on a special themed voyage in November 2025.

But now, they will be thrilled to learn that some new original cast members are joining the fun.

Princess Cruises just revealed that Cynthia Lauren Tewes, who portrayed cruise director Julie McCoy, and the popular entertainer Charo, who appeared on numerous episodes as recurring character April Lopez, will be on board.

“We’re honored to welcome Cynthia Lauren Tewes and Charo aboard Regal Princess for a joyful celebration that brings the magic of The Love Boat to life,” said Rebecca Thomson Foley, Princess Cruises’ head of entertainment.

The duo joins the previously announced cast members Jill Whelan (Vicki Stubing), Fred Grandy (Gopher), Ted Lange (Isaac), and Bernie Kopell (Doc).

Worth Reading: ‘Love Boat’ Cruise Line Welcomes Special Valentine’s Day Guest

The only original cast member missing from the lineup is Gavin MacLeod, who portrayed Captain Merrill Stubing. MacLeod passed away in 2021.

“This iconic show introduced the world to the joy of cruising, and reuniting with original cast members including Jill, Fred, Ted, and Bernie—and now Cindy and Charo—makes this sailing a dream cruise for fans and a thrill for new to Love Boat guests,” Thomson said.

The Love Boat Celebration at Sea will take place aboard the 142,229-gross-ton Regal Princess and will depart from Galveston, Texas, on November 16, 2025.

Charo is scheduled to perform her famous flamenco music onboard. Her musical sets, which were popular during the show’s run, will be part of the cruise programming.

The 7-night roundtrip cruise carrying up to 3,560 guests will journey to Cozumel, Mexico, for an overnight stay, then sail to Roatán, Honduras, to call in Mahogany Bay.

Princess Cruises is also offering a limited number of “Captain Packages” for guests who want added access to the cast.

The package includes a Cast Cocktail Hour, a Bon Voyage dinner with the cast, and exclusive merchandise tied to the cruise.

Fan-Favorite Cast Returns

The Love Boat debuted in 1977 and was set aboard Princess Cruises’ original Sun Princess. During its 10 seasons, Pacific Princess and Island Princess took viewers around the world and spurred an interest in cruising.

Throughout the years, the cast members of The Love Boat have all remained involved with the cruise line. In fact, MacLeod served as brand ambassador for more than 35 years.

Regal Princess (Photo Credit: Karolis Kavolelis)

The last themed voyage with cast members took place August 31 to September 7, 2024, from New York to New England and Canada and was such a hit it inspired this new voyage.

That sailing on the Enchanted Princess only included Lange, Freeman, and Whelan so guests of this next offering are in for a real treat!

It will be the first time so many members of the cast will be cruising together since MacLeod, Grandy, Lange, Kopell, Tewes, and Whelan were on hand for Regal Princess’ christening as godparents in 2014.

That special event also celebrated Princess Cruises’ 50^th anniversary.
Many of the cast members returned to Princess Cruises in 2022 for a celebration of MacLeod’s life after his passing.

The themed voyages include meet-and-greet photo opportunities, intimate one-on-ones, and airings of The Love Boat episodes.

Carnival Cruise Line Explains Limited Fitness Center Hours

Carnival Cruise News

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Jul 28, 2025

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Carnival Cruise Line Explains Limited Fitness Center Hours

Key Aspects:

A guest has asked if Carnival’s onboard fitness centers could be open earlier than 7 a.m.
Gym hours are typically 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., but do vary slightly across the Carnival Cruise Line fleet.
John Heald has explained that instructors must be present whenever the gym is open for guests.

The early bird may get the worm, but onboard a cruise ship with thousands of guests, the early bird can get the best choice of fitness equipment.

Just how early can Carnival Cruise Line guests use the gym for their morning workouts? For one guest, it isn’t quite early enough and they’ve reached out to John Heald, Carnival’s brand ambassador, with a request.

“On all three of my Carnival cruises, the gym opened at 7 a.m. I get up very early. I’d love it if the gym opened at 6 a.m.,” the guest explained.

With many fitness centers being open 24/7 for members, it’s not unreasonable to wonder why a cruise ship’s gyms have more limited hours.

“I know you have never seen the inside of a gym John Heald but maybe you can ask for all of us who do care about our health and fitness if the gym can open at 6!” the guest continued.

While the guest’s request may be a wee bit rude, Heald frequently pokes fun at his own weight and health.

He does respond with the explanation for the fitness center hours, though his reasoning could lead to a bit more confusion.

“The reason we do not have the gym open at 6 a.m. is that there has to be a gym instructor present when the gym is open,” Heald explains. “So as they already (there are three instructors) work from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. we really cannot open any earlier.”

It makes sense that it is necessary for an instructor to be present whenever the gym is open to supervise activities and to be on hand for assistance or emergencies.

What is unclear, however, is why three instructors are necessary for full daily shifts with the same or very similar hours. It might be possible to further stagger shifts to accommodate much longer hours.

For example, if each instructor could work just an 8-hour shift, perhaps the first individual could work from 4 a.m. until noon. A second instructor could work from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while the third’s workshift could be from 4 p.m. until midnight.

This would have the fitness center closed from midnight until 4 a.m., during which time extra cleaning or maintenance could take place.

Of course, gym instructors also offer a variety of exercise classes, personal training sessions, and fitness lectures, so their on-shift time can’t all be directed toward supervision or overseeing guests using the equipment.

Are Longer Gym Hours Really Necessary?

Given that the gyms onboard Carnival cruise ships are open for 14 hours every day (though the hours do vary slightly across the fleet), are longer hours needed?

I’ve only used the onboard fitness equipment a couple of times myself, so longer hours would not matter for me. Don’t judge, I’m on vacation!

Depending on individual guests’ fitness needs and preferences, however, longer hours could be useful.

Jogging Track on carnival Mardi Gras Cruise Ship — Jogging Track on Carnival Mardi Gras Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)

For example, ships may arrive at ports of call as early as 7-8 a.m. depending on the exact itinerary and destinations. If guests prefer to work out early in the day, they may not be able to do so within the existing hours if they have planned a shore tour for that port visit.

Not all tours offer later departure times, and it wouldn’t always be possible for a guest to simply choose a different tour to explore a port of call.

Furthermore, Carnival ships offer a full schedule of activities throughout the day, including trivia contests, dance lessons, craft projects, game shows, bingo games, comedy, production shows, karaoke, and more. An early morning workout can be the best option for a traveler to keep up on their fitness routine.

It should be noted that most ships also have an outdoor jogging track that is always available to guests unless the wind or weather creates unsafe conditions out on deck.

Star of the Seas Is on Her Way But What Is Happening Onboard?

Royal Caribbean News

Melissa Mayntz

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Jul 28, 2025

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Star of the Seas Is on Her Way But What Is Happening Onboard?

Key Aspects:

Star of the Seas departed Cadiz, Spain on July 27 and is now making her way across the Atlantic Ocean.
Artwork installation, crew training, stunt practices, and more are all happening onboard without guests.
The ship’s first four cruises are showcase sailings ahead of her inaugural 7-night voyage on August 31.

Every “loyal to Royal” cruiser is eagerly awaiting the arrival of the second Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas. She left Cadiz, Spain on Sunday, July 27 and is now heading across the Atlantic Ocean to her new home at Port Canaveral.

The ship was officially delivered to Royal Caribbean on July 10, 2025 and departed the Meyer Werft shipyard in Turku, Finland one week later, on Thursday, July 17.

She then made her way to Cadiz to take on supplies and additional crew members, and is now out to sea for her first transatlantic crossing.

Despite the fact that the brand-new ship does not have guests aboard for this first trip across the pond, that doesn’t mean it isn’t as crazy busy as if she did have all 7,600 guest berths filled. But what is happening during these sailing days?

Royal Caribbean has shared a rare insight at what is going on aboard the brand new ship as she heads west for the first time.

“The trek will take nine days, where all the finishing touches will take place,” the cruise line explained. “The first guests on Star arrive in just 19 days. See you soon, Florida!”

The ongoing finishing touches include:

Hanging more than 10,300 pieces of artwork
Stress testing every venue while conducting training
Practicing stunts for the ice, air, and aqua shows
Test driving thrills on deck, such as the waterslides

These are all final flourishes that do not need specialized equipment from the shipyard. Hundreds of crew members are participating in the different tasks as Star of the Seas makes her way to the Sunshine State.

The exact time and date of Star of the Seas‘ arrival to Port Canaveral has not yet been confirmed. Poor weather, technical challenges, or port schedules can still impact exactly when the ship will be welcomed home.

The ship may also stop at CocoCay before arriving in Florida, just as Icon of the Seas did in January 2024. This is also where the new Chief Dog Officer, Sailor, may join the crew.

Current satellite tracking data shows Star of the Seas on course for Ponce, Puerto Rico, where she will take on more supplies.

Undoubtedly other crew training, emergency drills, and familiarization tasks are also underway so the new ship is truly ready to shine when she welcomes her first guests on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

First Cruises Aboard Star of the Seas

That sailing is a 4-night “showcase cruise” that will only visit Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamian island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

With just one port of call, even on such a short cruise guests will still have plenty of time to experience what the immense new ship has to offer.

Like her sister ship, Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas is divided into distinct neighborhoods, each with its own individual flair. From the excitement of Thrill Island and its extensive waterpark to the relaxing vibes of Chill Island, there is something for everyone aboard.

Star of the Seas Departing Meyer Turku Shipyard

Guests can also look forward to exclusive entertainment, including the highly anticipated production show of “Back to the Future.” Live music, the energetic AquaTheater shows, game shows, and more will keep guests entertained day and night.

The first four cruises for the new ship are all preview or showcase sailings. These are shorter 3- and 4-night voyages that have been added to her schedule because the ship was completed ahead of schedule.

Star of the Seas will remain homeported from Port Canaveral year-round at least through April 2027. She is offering 7-night Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean itineraries from August 31, 2025.

Depending on the departure date and exact itinerary, the new ship will visit such top destinations as Costa Maya, Cozumel, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, San Juan, Roatan, and more.

All itineraries will also visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, consistently rated as one of the top private island destinations and a favorite among cruise guests.

Passenger Death Aboard Carnival Dream Leads to Routine FBI Coordination

Carnival Cruise News

Catie Kovelman

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Jul 29, 2025

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Passenger Death Aboard Carnival Dream Leads to Routine FBI Coordination

Key Aspects:

A cruise guest died onboard Carnival Dream during a Western Caribbean sailing on July 23, 2025.
The FBI is now in the middle of conducting an investigation into the death.
Carnival Cruise Line confirmed in a statement that the death isn’t suspicious, and the standard protocols are simply being followed.

Carnival Dream returned to Galveston, Texas, on July 26, 2025, after a 6-night Western Caribbean voyage, with one less passenger than on embarkation day.

Sadly, the unidentified guest died on Wednesday, July 23, presumably in the early morning hours while the Dream-class flagship was en route from Costa Maya, Mexico, to Belize City, Belize.

The other guests onboard the 3,646-guest ship reported that they were woken up at around 3 a.m. or 4 a.m. that morning by the sound of emergency alarms.

So far, the cause of death has not been announced, likely in the interest of protecting the privacy of the deceased passenger and their loved ones.

Currently, an FBI investigation into the matter is underway, as is the standard protocol with cruise ship deaths.

“I can confirm FBI Houston is aware of an incident that occurred around July 23, 2025 on the Carnival Dream cruise ship,” a spokesperson for the FBI Houston Office told KHOU 11 in a statement.

“An FBI maritime liaison agent, based out of the Texas City resident agency, is coordinating with the U.S. Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, and the cruise line regarding this incident,” they continued.

As the investigation is in progress, the spokesperson could not share additional details at this time.

Some guests reported that disembarkation was delayed on July 26 and law enforcement agents could be seen boarding the 130,000-gross ton vessel once the cruise ship docked.

Any potential delays did not seem to carry over into the subsequent 8-night Bahamas sailing, with cruise tracking data showing that Carnival Dream embarked on time and made it to its first port call on Key West, Florida, on time.

Investigations Do Not Always Mean Crime

While most people connect investigations to something sinister, this is not always the case.

Deaths at sea are quite rare, but when they do occur, they are usually connected to underlying health issues, medical emergencies, or other natural causes.

Of course, this hasn’t stopped the cruise community from spreading theories and rumors about everything and anything that could have possibly gone wrong.

Carnival Dream Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: venuswix)

Carnival Cruise Line, meanwhile, has made it clear that there is no suspicion of criminal activity at this time.

“There is no investigation about a suspicious death on Carnival Dream and it’s disappointing to learn that any guests might be spreading rumors about something they know nothing about,” Carnival told KHOU 11.

Read Also: Do Cruise Ships Have Morgues?

Believe it or not, it’s actually the norm for the FBI to at least review, if not investigate, deaths that occur at sea.

Cruise ships are actually required by law to report all deaths to the FBI by the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA).

“It is standard practice for the FBI to review deaths that occur on cruise ships. This routine protocol ensures transparency. It does not automatically imply suspicious circumstances, and the facts of this matter do not suggest any such activity,” Carnival confirmed.

However, the FBI’s jurisdiction (and potential involvement) is determined by factors like the ship’s location, where the death occurred, and the nationality of the deceased guests or crew members.

It’s also not unusual for the FBI to collaborate with other agencies, as they are for this investigation with the US Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection here.

More likely than not, Carnival is probably also in the midst of conducting its own internal investigation and incident report – as is, again, the standard protocol.

Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils Massive Waterpark for Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian Cruise Line News

Melissa Mayntz

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Jul 29, 2025

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Key Aspects:

The 6-acre Great Tides Waterpark will open on Great Stirrup Cay in the summer of 2026.
The new waterpark will feature 19 slides, a lazy river, cliff jumps, children’s play areas, and more.
Additional enhancements to the private island will begin opening later this year.

Just over a year ago, Norwegian Cruise Line announced a new pier to be constructed for Great Stirrup Cay. Great news indeed, as the port is subject to frequent weather-related cancellations, but little did we know far greater plans were in the works.

Now, the cruise line has announced that a brand new, nearly 6-acre waterpark will debut on the private island in summer 2026 – Great Tides Waterpark.

The new waterpark will feature a wide range of thrilling features, including cliff jumps, splash zones, 19 waterslides, and an active, dynamic river that stretches nearly 800 feet. You can watch a video of what’s coming right below:

“Great Stirrup Cay has always been an amazing part of the Norwegian Cruise Line guest experience and continues to be one of our highest rated destinations,” said David Herrera, Norwegian Cruise Line president.

“At 270 acres our private island provides us with an incredible blueprint to reinvent what guests can experience when they escape to ‘The Great Life’ with us.”

That “Great Life” will be great indeed for guests who visit Great Tides Waterpark and enjoy some amazing firsts not available at other private cruise line destinations.

The most visible attraction will be Tidal Tower. At 170 feet tall, the structure will be home to multiple waterslides, ranging from thrilling drops to more laid-back options. Racing slides, tube slides, and more will all be part of the waterslide lineup.

For true thrill seekers, Cliffside Cove will have an industry first with a pair of cliff jumps. At 10 and 15 feet tall, these heart-pumping attractions will seem a great deal taller to guests who fling themselves from the precipice!

Those with somewhat weaker constitutions will enjoy the only family slide in the Caribbean, where four riders can slip, slide, and swirl through the fun together.

Younger visitors will enjoy a 9,000-square-foot children’s splash zone complete with a tipping bucket, miniature slides, fountains, sprays, and other aqua-tastic features.

Children's Splash Zone, Great Stirrup Cay — Children’s Splash Zone, Great Stirrup Cay

Of special interest is the 800-foot dynamic river with an accelerated current that will provide a more adventurous ride than a typical lazy river.

Guests can customize their river experience from multiple entry points, but don’t miss the multi-sensory grotto tunnel with a unique, ever-changing bioluminescent scene. If the promotional video is any indication, you truly will feel immersed in oceanic life as you float along!

New thrills are always a highlight of Norwegian Cruise Line’s innovative offerings: remember when Norwegian Prima debuted the first-ever three-story go kart track?

Now, imagine go karts at sea, and picture yourself at Great Stirrup Cay to experience the first-ever “jet karts” aquatic racecourse. The special feature will combine the thrills of go karts and jet skis for truly unforgettable experiences as a unique and exclusive shore excursion.

First Enhancements Coming in Late 2025

The new waterpark (exciting enough to rival, perhaps even overshadow CocoCay less than a mile away, or Celebration Key 60 miles to the northwest) won’t open until summer 2026, but why wait? Norwegian Cruise Line guests will start to enjoy some Great Stirrup Cay enhancements later this year.

The new pier is slated to open in the next few months, permitting ships to dock rather than rely on tender service. This will improve visitation to the island without so many last-minute cancellations.

A scenic welcome plaza, island-wide tram service, heated pool, and the Great Life Lagoon will soon be open, offering cabana and villa experiences to guests seeking even more exclusivity for their island getaway.

A pair of swim-up bars, the Reef Bar and the Waves Bar, are part of the lagoon as well, with both kid-friendly and adults-only beverage menus.

Nearby, the 3,400-square-foot Splash Harbor will also open, offering interactive fountains and plenty of fun for youngsters with adjacent seated lounge space for adults.

Also coming soon is Horizon Park for guests who want to stay dry but still enjoy island vibes. Pickleball courts, a nine-hole miniature golf course, a sports court, and lawn games such as ring toss will all be part of the complimentary space.

To really take a load off and chill out, Hammock Bay will feature more than 50 hammocks for the greatest afternoon naps, with a nearby dedicated bar and the BBQ buffet just steps away.

For adults who want a quieter, more elevated space all their own, the Vibe Shore Club will be waiting. Similar to the Vibe Beach Club space onboard many Norwegian Cruise Line ships, the adults-only space will offer premium loungers and umbrellas as well as villas to rent, but a day pass is required.

While there is still much we don’t yet know about the new enhancements coming to Great Stirrup Cay, including any extra charges, menu options, or even more features, now is the time to book a late 2026 sailing to be among the first to visit!

New Ships to Bring Cruisers to NCL’s Upgraded Private Island

Norwegian Cruise Line News

Catie Kovelman

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Jul 29, 2025

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New Ships to Bring Cruisers to NCL’s Upgraded Private Island

Key Aspects:

15 Norwegian Cruise ships will be sailing to Great Stirrup Cay in 2026 to experience the new Great Tides Waterpark.
Some of the newest ships in the fleet will be sailing to the private destination, including the soon-to-debut Norwegian Luna.
Cruise fans can also try to win their way in by entering the “Escape to the Great Life” sweepstakes online or at pop-up events in New York and Miami.

When the news dropped about the Great Tides Waterpark that Norwegian Cruise Line is adding to Great Stirrup Cay, I had two thoughts:

First, I thought the 6-acre addition to NCL’s private island sounded amazing. Secondly, I immediately needed to know how I could get there when the expansion opens in 2026.

Luckily for eager cruisers like me, the cruise line has revamped its itineraries to meet the growing demand for Caribbean and Bahamas voyages, as well as in anticipation of the rush that will come with the debut of the waterpark.

The popular brand is anticipating one million guests will visit its exclusive destination in 2026.

Next year, 15 of Norwegian’s 20 cruise ships will be calling on Great Stirrup Cay, with plenty of embarkations from Florida’s PortMiami, Port Canaveral, Jacksonville, and Tampa.

Additional sailings will also set sail from New York, New York; Galveston, Texas; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

There will even be Transatlantic crossings that visit the revamped private destination onboard Norwegian Epic from Barcelona, Spain, and from Lisbon, Portugal, onboard Norwegian Dawn.

But not only is there more flexibility in choosing a home port, many of the ships being deployed to the region are among the newest in the fleet.

For example, Norwegian Luna will also debut shortly before the waterpark in 2026, and will begin her career by primarily operating 7-night Eastern Caribbean voyages from Miami that call on Great Stirrup Cay.

According to the itineraries listed on our Cruise Hive booking feature, Norwegian Luna will be conducting these sailings between April and October of 2026.

In addition to the Great Tides Waterpark, guests who book these sailings will also get to explore bucket list destinations like Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

Of course, this is only one example of many exciting itineraries that include a day at the 270-acre resort.

Win Your Way In

The traditional way to make it to Great Stirrup Cay would be by booking a cruise, which you can do at discount with Cruise Hive.

But if you want to test your luck, NCL is also conducting a celebratory “Escape to the Great Life” sweepstakes from July 29 to August 31, 2025, that is open to cruise fans in the US and Canada.

250 winners will be awarded a balcony stateroom for two for an unspecified four-day voyage sailing to the Bahamian island in August 2026.

While prospective future guests can enter the competition online, those who are local to New York and Miami may relish the chance to enter in person through a fun pop-up experience.

Beginning at 3 p.m. EST on July 29, a custom “escape hatch” at 104 Grand Street, New York City, will open that will use immersive technology and LED graphics to transport passersby to Great Stirrup Cay without ever leaving the city.

This event will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily until July 31, and is a great chance for cruisers to get their name in the running.

At the same time, seven additional “escape hatches” to (virtually visit) Great Stirrup Cay will be hidden throughout New York, but patrons will have to discover those on their own in areas like Grand Central Station and Times Square.

Similarly, three of these immersive “escape hatches” will be hidden in Miami throughout the month of August.

While NCL hasn’t given away their exact locations, we do know that they’ll be found in Wynwood, on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach, and at Bayside Marketplace in Downtown Miami.

Cruise Bookings Accelerate Across Royal Caribbean Brands

Royal Caribbean News

Donna Tunney

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Jul 29, 2025

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Cruise Bookings Accelerate Across Royal Caribbean Brands

Key Aspects

Last-minute bookings played a key role in the sharp rise in revenue.
The company’s multiple brands welcomed 2.3 million guests in the second quarter.
New-builds Star of the Seas and Celebrity Xcel are in high demand.

Royal Caribbean Group, the parent company of five global cruise brands, welcomed 2.3 million passengers across its fleets in the second quarter of 2025, a healthy 10% spike compared to the year-ago quarter.

The company owns Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises, and has a 50% stake in Mein Schiff and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, operating a total company-wide fleet of 68 ships.

It revealed its latest financial results on July 29, 2025, saying bookings have accelerated since first-quarter numbers were announced in late April 2025.

Last-minute, or close-in, bookings were particularly responsible for the robust numbers, and strong demand continues for all three Royal Caribbean Group (RCG) brands and in all markets. Guest capacity in the second quarter rose by 5.8% versus the same timeframe in 2024.

The brands’ digital booking channels provided exceptional results, the company said, not only for reservations but for pre-cruise purchases of value-added packages, shore excursions, and other amenities.

In particular, advance bookings for the new-builds Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s second Icon-class ship, and Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Cruises’ fifth Edge-class vessel, are doing extremely well.

“The strong demand we are seeing across our new ships and land-based destinations reinforces that our strategy is working and resonating with today’s traveler,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.

“As consumer preferences continue to evolve – toward more frequent vacations, closer-in vacation planning, and a greater focus on meaningful, experience-driven travel – our experiences are designed to meet these evolving expectations,” Liberty added.

Star of the Seas has the potential to add significantly to guest load factors, given its capacity to accommodate 5,600 guests in double occupancy and 7,600 with all berths occupied — the same as sister ship Icon of the Seas. The two share the title of the biggest cruise ship in the world.

Star of the Seas is fresh out of the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland and is on her way to her first homeport, Port Canaveral. The new-build will bring the Royal Caribbean fleet to 29.

Star of the Seas at Meyer Turku (Photo Credit: Jouni Niskakoski)

Icon of the Seas sails from PortMiami, giving Royal Caribbean significant capacity from the world’s two busiest cruise ports, Miami and Port Canaveral, respectively.

Star of the Seas will host four preview cruises starting on August 16, 2025, followed by her official inaugural voyage, a 7-night cruise departing on August 31, 2025.

Celebrity Xcel, with a capacity for 3,260 guests, will join the brand’s 16-ship fleet in November, sailing from Fort Lauderdale. The vessel is under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.

Early Bookings for Royal Beach Club Are Robust

Royal Caribbean Group reported its total revenues in the second quarter reached $4.5 billion, up from $4 billion reported for the first quarter of the year.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, Bahamas

For stockholders, the second-quarter results translate to $4.41 earnings per share, which is higher than the company’s earlier guidance had indicated.

The second-quarter financial announcement also cited robust advance sales for Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, which is due to open in December 2025. Guests sailing itineraries that call at Nassau, Bahamas, can buy day passes to the land-side resort.

The cost of day passes will vary based on ship and itinerary, but Royal Caribbean has indicated that passes will start at $129.99 for guests aged 13 and older, and $109.99 for young cruisers aged 4 to 12. Children 3 and younger are admitted free.

An inclusive pass for adults aged 21 and older, including unlimited open bar and dining, will cost $169.99 per person.

Mid-Year Stats Show Healthy Jump in Mexico Cruise Arrivals

Port News

Donna Tunney

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Jul 29, 2025

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Mid-Year Stats Show Healthy Jump in Mexico Cruise Arrivals

Key Aspects:

In the first half of 2025, 5.6 million cruise passengers called at Mexican ports.
The arrivals hike translates to an 8.4% spike.
Cozumel alone welcomed 2.4 million cruise guests.

Mexico tourism officials are looking back on the first half of 2025 with glowing pride, thanks to cruise arrival numbers showing a big increase compared to last year.

Just-released data points to a very respectable 5.6 million cruise guests arriving at Mexican ports, reflecting an 8.4% hike.

Cruise ship arrivals between January and June reached 1,639 at all ports, also a hefty 7.8% increase. The lion’s share of ship and guest arrivals goes to Cozumel. In the first half of the year, 2.4 million cruise passengers visited the destination.

“These figures confirm that Mexico is consolidating its position as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for cruise tourism,” said Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, tourism secretary of Mexico.

Other ports scoring big wins in arrivals are Mahahual, better known as Costa Maya, in Quintana Roo; Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas, both in Baja California Sur; and Puerto Vallarta, in Jalisco.

Ensenada is often packaged with visits to Catalina Island on sailings from Los Angeles and San Diego, while Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta are standard calls on virtually every Mexican Riviera voyage.

In the Gulf of Mexico, Cozumel is a mainstay port along with Costa Maya and Progreso on Western Caribbean cruises operated by ships based in Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; and the three main Florida ports — Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Port Canaveral.

Zamora cited the government’s strengthening of the National Port System as largely responsible for the growth. Cozumel is the busiest in terms of arrivals and has three cruise ship piers. The possible construction of a fourth has been in the conceptual stage for the last few years.

Costa Maya is the second-busiest, welcoming 1.2 million cruise guests during the first six months of 2025. Cabo San Lucas received about 480,000.

If the demand holds through the remainder of 2025, Cozumel would be on track to welcome roughly 4.8 million cruisers. That would put it well ahead of pre-pandemic records; in 2018, for instance, 4.3 million cruise passengers arrived in Cozumel.

Arrivals Spike Comes as New Cruise Tax Takes Effect

The healthy arrivals numbers were announced just as a new cruise arrival tax went into effect at Mexican ports.

Taking effect on July 1, 2025, the $5 per person tax had been delayed from its original implementation date of January 1, 2025. In 2026, it will rise to $10 per passenger, and in 2027 to $21 per cruise arrival. The tax was originally proposed at $42 per person before being pared down.

The levy is meant to expand the country’s non-resident tourist tax, which had never been charged to cruise passengers.

Cruise Ships Docked in Cozumel, Mexico (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)

Several mega-ships currently offer itineraries calling at Cozumel and Costa Maya. Among them are the 5,300-guest Carnival Jubilee, the 3,600-guest Carnival Dream, and 3,700-guest Carnival Breeze, and Royal Caribbean’s 3,100-guest Mariner of the Seas and 5,400-guest Harmony of the Seas, all based at Galveston.

Cruise ships currently visiting Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, on Mexican Riviera sailings, include the 4,100-guest Carnival Firenze and 4,000-guest Carnival Panorama, and Royal Caribbean’s 4,100-guest Ovation of the Seas and 3,300-guest Navigator of the Seas, all homeported at Los Angeles.

These ports are also typically included on Hawaii voyages. For instance, Holland America Line’s Zaandam will visit both destinations on her 29-night Circle Hawaii & Historical Baja Peninsula cruise sailing roundtrip from San Diego on November 19, 2025.

The Mexican government has plans to improve additional ports in the coming years. It plans to invest 55 billion pesos ($2.9 billion USD) to boost infrastructure in Ensenada, Manzanillo, Lazaro Cardenas, Acapulco, Veracruz, and Progreso, according to local media reports.

Private Event Forces Cancellation of Pearl Cove Reservations

Carnival Cruise News

Melissa Mayntz

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Jul 29, 2025

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Private Event Forces Cancellation of Pearl Cove Reservations

Key Aspects:

Guests visiting Celebration Key on October 4, 2025 have had Pearl Cove Beach Club rentals cancelled and refunded.
Carnival Cruise Line has explained the cancellations as due to a private event, but without any further details.
The Pearl Cove Beach Club is the adults-only private area and requires extra fee access passes for interested guests.

Less than two weeks after opening, Carnival Cruise Line’s new private destination on Grand Bahama Island, Celebration Key, is already proving wildly popular. But is it too popular?

The cruise line has been reaching out to guests with select reservations for Saturday, October 4, 2025 with notifications that their rental choices will not be available.

“We’ve just been informed that, the Pearl Cove Beach Club area will be closed on 10/4/25 for a private event,” the email explains. “As a result, your reservation has been cancelled and a refund has been issued to your original form of payment.”

The nature of the “private event” has not been disclosed. On that Saturday, both Carnival Celebration and Carnival Glory are scheduled for visits.

It is possible the cruise line may be hosting a corporate or media event at that time, or else the space could have been fully rented by another company or organization, similar to a full-ship charter cruise. An event for the Carnival crew members could also be possible.

Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador, John Heald, has confirmed the closure after being asked via his popular Facebook page.

“It is something that is taking place and I do apologize again for the inconvenience of this,” he said.

Initially guests had some concern that the cancellations might be due to overcrowding at the new destination, particularly as kinks in daily operations may yet need to be ironed out.

This is unlikely, however, as two ships are scheduled for Celebration Key on most days.

On Friday, September 12, there will be three ships in port for the first time – Carnival Pride, Carnival Elation, and Mardi Gras, with no word of any cancellations.

If overcrowding was already a concern, undoubtedly there would be multiple cancellations of different rental options on multiple days. As this has not been the case, a special event is far more likely.

This could raise concerns for guests with future cruises to the destination, however. If the cruise line regularly rents out space for non-cruise events, guests might not be able to enjoy every feature of Celebration Key on their visits.

Visiting the Pearl Cove Beach Club

The Pearl Cove Beach Club is Celebration Key’s exclusive, adults-only space for visitors ages 18 and older. Located on the west end of the destination, the club offers elevated luxury with a private beach, an 11,000-square foot infinity pool, a swim-up bar, and a relaxing, quiet vibe.

“We’ve specifically designed Pearl Cove Beach Club as the perfect place for adults to lounge, unwind, or relax in their own paradise,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

Access to the Pearl Cove Beach Club does require an extra fee of $79.99 per person, or $139.99 for an open bar pass option. Prices and availability can vary, of course.

The “luxury daybed” referenced in the email cancellation is the least expensive private rental at the beach club, priced at $349.99 for a full-day rental that can accommodate four guests.

Guests can also rent standard cabanas with an open bar for $999.99 for up to four guests. These cabanas include concierge service and an all-day pass to the two Suncastle water slides.

All-Inclusive Super Villas are the most elite option at the Pearl Cove Beach Club for the super-pricey fee of $2,799.99, but they can accommodate 10 guests.

These rentals also include highly desirable amenities, such as hammocks, lockers, a dedicated concierge, an open bar, snacks, and waterslide passes.