Welcoming more than 7.2 million passengers in 2023, Miami regains its position as the Cruise Capital of the World and eyes a bright future in 2024 with the arrival of new ships.
PortMiami Marks Historic Achievement in 2023
As the 2023 Fiscal Year concluded on September 30, 2023, PortMiami celebrated a significant milestone by recording a nearly 7% increase in cruise passenger totals. The port ended the year with a record-breaking 7,299,294 passengers, surpassing its previous peak of 6,823,816 passengers set in 2019 before the pandemic.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Caya praised the achievement, adding, “PortMiami continues to drive our economy forward, creating opportunities for residents and businesses across our county. The Port is an industry leader, which is future-ready and committed to innovative, efficient, and sustainable growth.”
PortMiami experienced unprecedented surges in cruise passengers in 2023, setting single-day records on February 12 with 58,984 passengers and then surpassing it on April 9 with 67,549 passengers.
PortMiami Cruise Ships (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock)
The upcoming winter months of 2023 and 2024 are set to be bustling, with eight new ships from eight different cruise lines making their way through PortMiami. This includes the much-anticipated debut of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, touted as the world’s largest cruise ship, set to embark on its maiden voyage on January 27, 2024.
Icon of the Seaswill bring 7,600 passengers to the Magic City, along with Oceania Cruises’ Oceania Vista (1,200 passengers), Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Venezia (4,090 passengers), Scenic Cruises’ Scenic Yacht II (228 passengers), Crystal Cruises’ revitalized Crystal Serenity (740 passengers), MSC Cruises’ Explora I (922 passengers), Norwegian Cruise Lines’ new Norwegian Viva (3,009 passengers), and Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur (750 passengers).
These new ship arrivals could bring 18,539 additional passengers to PortMiami in one docking, significantly boosting passenger numbers. Historically the world’s busiest passenger port, PortMiami experienced a brief shift in ranking earlier this year when Port Canaveral surpassed it.
Cruise Ships in Miami (Photo Credit: VIAVAL TOURS / Shutterstock)
This change was highlighted in the annual passenger totals released by the Florida Ports Council, which recorded traffic between January and December. The Space Coast port, located an hour east of Orlando, edged out PortMiami with 4.07 million passengers compared to Miami’s 4.03 million, winning by a narrow margin.
Despite this, the lastest Fiscal year report for Port Canaveral indicated a different trend. Although the port achieved a record number 6.8 million passengers in 2023, this figure did not surpass PortMiami’s impressive count.
Anticipation builds as, pending the alignment of Fiscal Year data with the Florida Ports Council’s January-December figures, PortMiami is on the cusp of fully reclaiming its position as the Cruise Capital of the World.
Expanding Capacity in a Cutting-Edge Port
Located on Dodge Island in Biscayne Bay, PortMiami spans a 518-acre area and annually hosts more than 60 cruise ships from more than two dozen cruise lines. The port, which currently houses nine cruise terminals, is on track to enhance its facilities with the completion of the new state-of-the-art Terminal AA/AAA.
This terminal, a project exceeding $450 spearheaded by MSC Cruises, is designed to accommodate the latest generation of cruise ships. Upon its completion in early 2024, Terminal AA/AAA is expected to facilitate up to 36,000 passenger movements daily, significantly boosting the port’s capacity and efficiency.
Rendering By: MSC Cruises
The Sunshine State boast three of the top 10 busiest cruise ports globally. Alongside PortMiami and Port Canaveral is Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, completing a powerful trifecta in the cruise sector. Port Everglades mirrored the high performances, also welcoming 6.8 million passengers during the 2023 Fiscal Year.
Further cementing Florida’s status in the industry, Port Tampa Bay – among one of the 10 busiest ports in the United States – finished its Fiscal Year with a record-setting 1,149,289 passengers, marking a significant double-digit percentage increase from its already record-setting performance in 2022.
Carnival Venezia, currently homeported from New York City, was unable to leave on her Sunday, December 10, 2023 sailing due to rough weather that made conditions in the Hudson River and the adjacent bay unsafe for the ship to navigate.
Fortunately, the ship has now been able to depart and there appears to be no significant change to her itinerary, though it is possible her arrival to her first port of call may be later than originally planned.
Carnival Venezia Departure Delayed
Carnival Venezia was delayed and spent an unexpected overnight in New York City on December 10, 2023 due to rough weather that impacted conditions on the Hudson River, a critical passage the ship must navigate to safely put to sea.
“The weather has been taking a toll,”Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald explained.“Carnival Venezia was expected to leave [Sunday] from New York, but you will ssee that she is still there [on Monday morning].”
Guests onboard were notified by the ship’s captain that the ship would be delayed in her departure via letters and announcements.
“Unfavorable weather marked by strong winds is currently impacting the … bay area, a route we must navigate shortly after we depart,”the letter explained.“After consulting with our Fleet Operations Center and local pilots, we have determined that it’s unsafe to sail through these conditions. Consequently, we will remain docked until [Monday] morning when conditions are expected to improve.”
Carnival Venezia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Mariusz Lopusiewicz / Shutterstock)
The weather did indeed improve by early Monday morning, and Carnival Venezia was able to set off on her way before 7 a.m.
At the time the ship was to have departed at 4 p.m. on Sunday afternoon, local winds were steady at approximately 9 miles per hour (14 kilometers per hour), but gusts were recorded over 30 mph (48 kph) just two hours later, when the ship would have been moving through the bay.
Undoubtedly, the 1,400 international crew members onboard went above and beyond to offer additional activities and entertainment while the ship remained in New York, ensuring that every passenger had a great start to their cruise vacation even if the ship wasn’t yet underway.
Will the Itinerary Be Impacted?
Carnival Venezia is now en route to Freeport in the Bahamas, the first scheduled port of call. The ship was to have been in Freeport from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, December 13.
While satellite tracking data shows the ship will still be in Freeport on Wednesday, her estimated time of arrival is not until 2 p.m. This time may yet be adjusted, however, as the ship makes her way the 1,100 miles (1,770 km) to Freeport.
It is possible that once the ship has cleared any further challenging weather, her speed may be increased to make up time and she could arrive closer to her original schedule. It is also possible that her stay in port will be extended past 4 p.m. to give guests more time to enjoy Freeport even after a later than anticipated arrival.
Carnival Venezia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Mariusz Lopusiewicz / Shutterstock)
The additional ports of call on the itinerary – Nassau and Half Moon Cay – should not be impacted, though their times may also be slightly adjusted if necessary.
Carnival Venezia will leave the Bahamas on December 15, 2023 and will enjoy two days at sea as she makes her way back to New York.
There should be no impact on the ship’s next sailing, a 10-night Eastern Caribbean Christmas itinerary leaving New York on Monday, December 18 and visiting Nassau, Princess Cays, Grand Turk, and Amber Cove.
The 135,225-gross-ton Carnival Venezia can welcome 4,090 guests at double occupancy and up to 5,263 passengers when fully booked with all berths filled.
She will remain homeported from New York through mid-December 2024, offering Eastern Caribbean and Bermuda itineraries. In December 2024, Carnival Venezia will move to Port Canaveral to bring her unique style to the world’s busiest cruise port with Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, and Western Caribbean sailings.
Guests booked on the highly anticipated Christmas and New Year’s sailings of Carnival Panorama will be thrilled to learn that the repairs to the ship’s engines have been completed and the vessel is already on the move to have her whale tail reinstalled.
There should be no further cruise cancellations, and the ship will be ready to welcome guests for her December 23, 2023 departure.
Carnival Panorama Engine Repairs Complete
Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald confirmed on Monday, December 11 that Carnival Panorama‘s emergency engine repairs have been completed, and the ship will be able to make her next scheduled sailing, departing Long Beach, California on Saturday, December 23 with no further cancellations or delays.
“I have great news and glad tidings of joy,”Heald said.“The ship has completed the work, all the chief engineer and the people helping have completed the work on the starboard side azipod.”
Carnival Panoramafirst developed engine trouble in early November, and it was determined the ship could not complete her Mexican Riviera itineraries as planned because her maximum cruising speed was dramatically impacted. Instead, the decision was made to remove the ship from service for emergency repairs, and ultimately, six cruises were cancelled.
Carnival Panorama Heads for Repair
Now that the repairs have been completed, satellite tracking data shows the vessel moving down the Columbia River on her way to the coast as she has already left the dry dock facility in Portland, Oregon. Heald thanked everyone involved in these emergency repairs, ensuring that the ship can promptly return to service.
“The great news is that everything is on schedule for her to return,”he said.
The work was completed early on Monday, December 11, and the ship left promptly on her way to Victoria, British Columbia for her whale tail to be remounted on her funnel, the final step before Carnival Panorama can return to service.
The 133,868-gross-ton, Vista-class ship can welcome 4,008 guests at double occupancy, or up to 5,097 passengers when fully booked. Also onboard are 1,450 international crew members to ensure that every sailing is an enjoyable one, packed with Carnival’s signature fun.
Whale Tale to Be Reinstalled
Before the ship can welcome guests again, Carnival Panorama must have her iconic “whale tail” funnel reinstalled. The funnel, along with the tallest parts of the ship’s radar and communications array, was removed prior to the ship traveling up the Columbia River to Portland. There are two low bridges that cross the river and the funnel did not have adequate clearance to safely navigate beneath those bridges.
Carnival Panorama Funnel (Photo Credit: Greater Victoria Harbour Authority)
Once the ship has cleared those bridges once again, she will have her funnel reinstalled in Victoria, where it was initially removed.
It should be noted that the winged funnel – a characteristic of every Carnival cruise ship since Tropicale debuted in 1982 – is largely a stylistic piece, and the cruise line’s ships can operate with just a straight stack when necessary.
This was the case with Carnival Freedom, when that ship’s funnel was damaged in a fire in May 2022. The starboard side wing of the funnel was melted away, and the top part of the funnel was removed so the ship could continue to sail with a modified straight funnel.
Carnival Panorama‘s December 23 sailing is a 7-night Mexican Riviera sailing with calls to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas. Now that the cruise is sure to go ahead, it will be a very celebratory holiday sailing indeed.
Modern-day cruise ships are immense vessels that provide passengers with a comfortable and luxurious way to traverse the world’s largest bodies of water. Given their tremendous scale, you may wonder, just how many cruise ships are there?
To answer your questions and give you a better understanding of the cruise industry, we are going to take a deep dive into the latest numbers. We will also explain why the number constantly fluctuates and how global events and trends can increase the demand for full-scale cruise ships.
By the end of 2023, there will be an estimated 454 ocean-worthy cruise ships worldwide. While this number is undoubtedly staggering, it is important to note that not all of these ships will operate simultaneously.
This is because some ships are held for repairs and general maintenance, while others are kept docked while passenger demand fluctuates. Others are simply docked between voyages.
Typically, the number of operational cruise ships tends to hover closer to the 300 mark. This number is also spread across numerous cruise lines, including large companies like Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line, and smaller ones like Holland America Line, MSC Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises.
Which Cruise Line Operates the Largest Number of Cruise Ships?
As mentioned, different cruise lines operate different numbers of cruise ships. Unsurprisingly, some of the most well-known names in the industry operate the largest number of ships.
As of 2023, Royal Caribbean has 26 fully operational cruise ships, which is set to grow to 27, with the arrival of the world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas. With 26 fully operational, Carnival Cruise Line is not far behind, including the third Excel-class, Carnival Jubilee.
Cruise Ships at PortMiami (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
Beyond that, MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line also operate a significant number of vessels, with 24 and 21, respectively. Some of the smallest cruise lines only operate one or two, which is still a significant feat considering the immense cost of building and operating a full-sized cruise ship.
How Many Cruise Ships Are Built Per Year?
As anyone in the industry will tell you, cruise ship construction depends on various factors, so it can vary significantly from one year to the next. Market demands, economic conditions, and even global events can all greatly influence how cruise lines and the shipbuilding industry operate.
For example, the COVID-19 pandemic heavily impacted the cruise industry, as travel restrictions, lockdowns, and a general unwillingness to be in crowded spaces meant that passenger demand plummeted. Many cruise lines had to temporarily dock some of their largest vessels to reduce operating costs, while others took the opportunity to perform maintenance procedures on their fleets.
Disney Treasure Construction at Meyer Werft
Since most cruise lines had more vessels than they needed, the shipbuilding industry also saw a significant decline in activity. With all that said, the post-COVID-19 recovery period has seen a massive spike in passenger demand, so many cruise lines are expanding their fleets. This explains why the number of operational cruise ships is set to increase substantially into 2024 and beyond.
With all of that said, in a typical year, numbers tend to remain relatively stable. This is because there is usually an equal number of new cruise ships launched per year as there are ones that are scrapped. For example, in 2017, the cruise industry saw the construction and launch of 17 ships, while a perfectly equal number of 17 ships were scrapped.
How Many Cruise Ships Are Scrapped Per Year?
Just like the number of cruise ships built per year, the number that are scrapped also varies according to industry demands and the condition and maintenance costs of each.
Typically, a vessel is taken out of service after roughly 20 to 25 years of operation. That said, some of the more well-built and properly maintained vessels can have a lifespan of more than 30 years.
Photo Credit: Gen-Z designs / Shutterstock
When it is determined that a cruise ship has run its course or is deemed unsafe and no longer fit for service, it is stripped down for parts and scrap through a sophisticated vessel recycling program.
Specialized ship scrap yard facilities meticulously break the ship down so that the valuable metals can be recycled and any hazardous materials can be disposed of properly.
What Differentiates a Cruise Ship from a Smaller Passenger Vessel?
If you are curious about how many cruise ships are operational, you might also wonder how you can tell it apart from a smaller passenger vessel.
Aside from the number of passengers they can carry, one of the main differentiating factors is that vessels are designed for extended voyages. Where other large passenger vessels, like ocean-crossing ferries, can hold many passengers, and some even have on-board amenities and dining halls to entertain and feed travelers, they rarely carry passengers for more than 18 hours.
Since these smaller vessels are only designed to transport passengers to a particular destination rather than provide a vacation in themselves, they do not need to have the same level of passenger accommodations and other facilities required for a long-haul voyage.
Ferry and Cruise Ship Passing Each Other (Photo Credit: Kevin Shipp)
Not only do smaller passenger vessels lack the facilities and supplies required for a lengthy voyage, but they are not given the same level of safety certification, so it would violate maritime standards and laws to hold passengers for more than 24 hours.
In other words, cruise ships must be capable of safely carrying passengers for a significant time. While many travel to various destinations, their primary purpose is to provide a relaxing and entertaining experience for guests rather than being viewed as a simple mode of transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cruise ship passengers are there per year?
Across all major cruise lines, over 20.4 million cruise ship passengers traveled in 2022 alone. By the end of 2023, that number is expected to be far greater, with many industry experts forecasting the number at close to 31.5 million!
Since travel demand has risen steadily since the COVID-19 pandemic, it is unsurprising that the 2019 peak will be exceeded this year.
The average medium-sized cruise ship usually has a passenger capacity of nearly 3,000 guests. Given the number of ships in operation is also rising, you can see how many people can enjoy dream cruise vacations each year.
Considering that travel demand has risen steadily since the COVID-19 pandemic, it is unsurprising that the 2019 peak will be exceeded this year.
How many passengers can travel at any given time, given the number and size of the world’s cruise ships?
While millions of passengers traverse the world’s waterways by cruise ship each year, a finite number of passengers can travel at any given time. Obviously, this is due to the number of operational ships, as well as the safe passenger capacity of each vessel.
As of 2022, 664,602 passengers could travel simultaneously if all 302 cruise ships running that year were filled to their maximum safe capacity. This is substantial when considering that most cruise voyages range from 5 to 14 nights. Given that they run continuously and can carry so many guests, you start to see how the annual number of passengers can quickly climb into the tens of millions!
How many cruise ships does Royal Caribbean operate?
As one of the world’s biggest cruise lines, you may wonder how many vessels Royal Caribbean International operates. As of the very end of 2023, Royal Caribbean has 26 ships in its fleet, but that number is set to grow throughout 2024.
They have the highest number of cruise ships and operate the world’s largest passenger vessel – the Icon of the Seas. As a new LNG-powered Icon-class vessel, it is immense in physical scale and capable of carrying an incredible number of passengers (7,600 at maximum capacity). The cruise line also operates the world’s second-largest cruise ship – Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas.
Final Words
Like any industry, the cruise industry changes all of the time. One of the many ways it fluctuates from one year to the next is in the number of operational cruise ships. Passenger demands and the condition of individual vessels will dictate the number of new constructions and the number of ships that will be retired and scrapped each year.
Many of the world’s leading cruise lines are reporting record-breaking passenger counts for 2023, and those numbers are not showing any signs of slowing down as the year ends. Given that trend, we can only expect the number of cruise ships to increase going forward.
This is all great news for cruise vacation enthusiasts! The more cruise ships out there, the more flexible your travel options will be. Who knows, more vessels may even translate to more affordable vacations for travelers.
Caribbean cruises can be booked throughout the entire calendar year, but the best time to visit is from December to April. If you’re looking for the best deals, book a cruise between May and November.
This time frame overlaps hurricane season for a few weeks, but if you’re willing to take the risk, you can find significantly more affordable prices for cruises, tours, and on-shore excursions.
Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know to book your Caribbean cruise at the time that’s best for you.
When Is the Best Time to Go on a Caribbean Cruise?
To understand the best time to enjoy a cruise in the Caribbean, you first need to know how the seasons in the region work. Essentially, this tropical climate experiences two noticeably different seasons – the dry season and the wet season. As you may have guessed, these two seasons revolve around the amount of precipitation the region experiences during different times of the year.
Traveling the Caribbean During the Dry Season
Given the unpredictability of Caribbean weather, the dry season does not have a specific start and finish date, but it generally runs from early November until late April. During this stretch, temperatures tend to be relatively mild, while precipitation is at an annual minimum.
Cruise Ships in the Caribbean (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
During the first half of the dry season, you can expect daily average temperatures to range somewhere between 70° F and 80° F. This means you can enjoy pleasantly warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine without risking the sweltering intensity of the summer heat.
During the back end of the dry season, meaning January until the end of April, average temperatures rise by a few degrees, but the skies usually remain clear.
Traveling the Caribbean During the Wet Season
When the dry season ends in late April, the wet season begins. May tends to be the informal beginning of the wet season, so temperatures increase alongside humidity levels.
The temperatures vary between the Southern Caribbean Islands, like St Lucia and St Vincent, and those in the Western Caribbean closer to the continental United States, like the Cayman Islands, St Maarten, or Jamaica, but you can expect the average daytime temperature to be around 91° F. As the name suggests, precipitation increases throughout the wet season, but showers are brief and sporadic during the first few months.
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
Once you reach July, you are at the very peak of the Caribbean’s wet season, which means you can expect high temperatures, plenty of rain, and humidity levels that can be uncomfortable. During these mid to late summer months, the Caribbean is also at the greatest risk of experiencing tropical storms, multi-day rainfalls, and even hurricanes.
So, When Is the Best Time for Travellers to Cruise the Caribbean?
Given how the wet and dry seasons pan out, you are always better off booking your Caribbean cruise vacation during the calendar’s shoulder seasons, meaning late fall and early spring.
More specifically, you will want to favor the months of November and April when booking your trip. If you want to avoid hurricanes and tropical storms, we recommend April over November, but remember that November can be a pleasant time to enjoy a cruise in the region.
Why Do We Recommend These Months?
As you can tell from our breakdown of the wet and dry seasons, conditions tend to be at their most pleasant and calm right before the start of the wet season and shortly after it has concluded.
Cruise Ships in the Caribbean (Photo Credit: eric laudonien)
This gives you that perfect blend of warm and sunny weather while minimizing your risk of rainfall and severe storms. Nighttime temperatures are also pleasant during these months, rather than muggy and humid.
While there is always the risk of the occasional light rain shower when you are in the Caribbean, they tend to be fairly minimal during the late fall and early spring.
What About Sea Conditions in the Caribbean?
Beyond ensuring that you have a high chance of enjoying pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, the shoulder seasons are also an excellent time to book your vacation because of the calmer sea conditions.
Even though modern cruise ships are all designed for stability and passenger comfort, it is always more pleasant to be a passenger when traveling through calm seas.
Caribbean Storm (Photo Credit: Petr Kratochvil / Shutterstock)
Not only does it minimize seasickness and that unpleasant rocking motion some passengers find irritating, but the Caribbean Sea and its numerous coastlines are most beautiful when the turquoise water is perfectly still.
The Caribbean Sea is usually relatively calm during late fall and early spring. As you can imagine, this helps ensure all passengers enjoy a smoother, more relaxing cruising experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the worst time to cruise the Caribbean?
While it is possible to enjoy a pleasant cruising experience in the Caribbean throughout the year, it is generally understood that cruising during a summer month is the riskiest.
When you book a cruise that sets sail between August and September, you almost guarantee that you will travel during the peak of the wet season. This is also when the Caribbean’s hurricane season is in full swing.
Temperatures can be warm and enjoyable, but many people find that the humidity can be unpleasant. Rain is also more frequent, which can make excursions and exploring ports of call far less enjoyable.
What happens to your Caribbean cruise vacation if you book during hurricane season?
If you choose to travel during peak hurricane season, there is also the risk that a hurricane or serious tropical storm will disrupt your cruise vacation.
This can mean your itinerary can be disrupted, or the cruise line will be forced to cancel the voyage entirely. While this outcome is fairly unlikely, it can be a concern for those who cannot delay their trip due to work commitments.
This is one of the reasons why Caribbean cruises during the summer tend to be relatively affordable. Not only is there a higher risk of rainfall and high humidity levels, but you also risk trip disruptions due to storms and hurricanes. With that said, due to the lack of demand, fewer Caribbean cruises set sail during this time of year, which can increase costs and level them out.
When is the cheapest time of year to book a Caribbean cruise vacation?
While it may surprise you, some of the most affordable months of the year to cruise the Caribbean are some of the most pleasant months to travel in the region.
Tickets for cruises that set sail between January and March are usually among the most affordable. This is because these months and those between them are when demand is high enough to warrant an increased number of cruise voyages, but they miss the most pleasant months of November and April.
In other words, plenty of cruise lines offer Caribbean voyages during this period, but demand is lower than during the peak travel months. This increases the chances of scoring an amazing Caribbean cruise deal.
If you want to keep costs to a minimum, it is also worth noting that you should try to avoid booking your trip for days that land near major holidays, like the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. This is because demand increases, which usually translates to higher prices for cruise ship tickets. March break should also be avoided, as many families with children try to book during this week.
Final Words
Most experienced Caribbean cruisers will tell you to avoid the middle of the wet season. We tend to agree with this advice, as it helps you avoid the most unpleasant Caribbean weather.
Regarding our top picks, we almost always point towards November and April, as they provide the least precipitation, the calmest waters, and plenty of sunshine. These are also some of the most expensive months to travel, so you may want to pick some other time during the dry season.
Ultimately, the best time to cruise the Caribbean depends on your personal budget and preferences. If you hope to enjoy a cruise during a less ideal month to celebrate a particular occasion or life event, book your trip and enjoy yourself!
While it is true that certain months are better than others when it comes to reducing your risk of rain storms and unpleasant temperatures, the Caribbean Sea is a year-round cruising destination. As long as you have realistic weather expectations and are prepared for your trip, you will enjoy yourself!
In other words, don’t get bogged down in the details! Book when it makes the most sense for you and your loved ones.
Modern cruise ships are incredibly safe. Not only is it in the best interests of the cruise lines themselves to invest in safer and less sinkable ships, but international safety standards demand that all cruise ships adhere to strict design standards.
With that said, tragedy does happen. If you have ever wondered how many cruise ships have sunk in history, we have the answers you are looking for. Today, we are going to take a look at these rare yet tragic events. We will cover some of the most famous sinkings in the cruise industry’s history and explain how frequent these events are in the modern era.
If you’re ready to learn about these tragic maritime events, let’s dive in.
How Many Cruise Ships Have Sunk Throughout History?
While sinkings of large vessels are rare, these events are even more infrequent when discussing cruise ships. Over the past 100 years, there have only ever been 24 full-size cruise ships that have sunk.
In some of these cases, the sinking occurred while the ship was being towed for repairs or when the ship was on its way to a scrapping yard; many times, the ship was operating as a warship when the sinking occurred.
It is also worth noting that most of these sinking events also took place before 1940, showing improved safety features and how innovations in ship design have reduced the likelihood of cruise ships sinking in modern times. Here, in chronological order, are the 24 cruise ships that have sunk in history:
1. April 1912: Titanic
Titanic Ocean Liner
Perhaps the most infamous cruise ship sinking took place on April 14, 1912, when the RMS Titanic hit an iceberg; it was completely underwater in roughly two hours. Unfortunately, there weren’t enough lifeboats on the ship, and most passengers did not survive. The Titanic sinking resulted in over 1,500 deaths.
2. May 1914: Empress of Ireland
Empress of Ireland (Photo Credit: HefePine23)
The Empress of Ireland was carrying nearly 1,500 passengers when it collided with the SS Storstad from Norway due to fog that limited visibility. In total, 1,012 people were killed.
3. May 1915: Lusitania
S.S. Lusitania (Photo Credit: Everett Collection)
When the RMS Lusitania belonged to the Cunard Line, it was the world’s largest passenger ship. On May 7, 1915, a U-boat hit the Lusitania with a torpedo near the Ireland coast. The ship went down quickly, and the crew only launched six lifeboats. Around 1,200 people died.
4. November 1916: Britannic
Britannic (Photo Credit: Zm05gamer)
Britannic, the sister ship of the Titanic and another ship called the Olympic. She was supposed to sail as a passenger ship, but World War I started, and plans changed. She served as a hospital ship and was struck by a naval mine between the Makronisos and Kea Islands of Greece. Although she sank in only 55 minutes, only 30 people died as most of those on board got onto the lifeboats and escaped.
5. October 1927: Principessa Mafalda
Principessa Mafalda
In 1909, the Principessa Mafalda, an Italian cruise ship, sailed between Buenos Aires and Genoa. In 1927, a broken propeller shaft damaged the ship’s hull and sank the ship off the Brazilian coast, killing just over 300 people.
6. June 1931: Saint-Philibert
On June 14, 1931, the Saint-Philibert sank off the French coast. The death toll was nearly 500; only eight people survived.
7. May 1932: Georges Philippar
Georges Philippar
Georges Philippar was a French ocean liner that sank near what is now Yemen on her maiden voyage. They considered delaying the launch due to safety concerns, but these were ignored to avoid any delay penalties. Ultimately, an electrical fault caused a fire in a luxury cabin. The ship sank, and 54 people lost their lives.
8. September 1934: SS Morro Castle
SS Morro Castle (Photo Credit: International News Photos, Inc)
On September 8. 1934, the SS Morro Castle caught fire and ran aground while traveling to New York City from Havana, Cuba. The evening before, the ship’s captain died suddenly, and Chief Officer William Warms took command. In all, 137 people died. Many people blamed the crew. They didn’t seem to know how to handle the emergency; lifeboats could hold 408 people, but the crew launched them with fewer people on board.
9. October 1940: Empress of Britain
The Empress of Britain was a steam turbine ocean linker that carried passengers between Canada and Europe between 1931 and 1939. She was the largest, fastest, most luxurious ship traveling this route during this time. On September 2, 1939, the United Kingdom declared war on the Nazi Empire in World War II.
Empress of Britain (Photo Credit: Stewart Bale)
On November 25, the Empress of Britain was requisitioned to transport troops. She made multiple transatlantic trips carrying troops from Canada to England during her service. On October 26, 1940, the Empress of Britain was bombed, and on October 28, she was sunk by a German U-boat.
10. July 1956: Andrea Doria
While on her way to New York City, the Stockholm passenger liner collided with Andrea Doria, and the ship immediately started to list and take on water. Half of her lifeboats were underwater, which could have led to a significant loss of life, but the ship did not sink immediately.
Andrea Doria (Photo Credit: Pil56)
It stayed afloat for over 11 hours. Thanks to the actions of the crew, improved communication technology, and the rapid response of nearby ships, 1,660 crew and passengers were rescued. Around 50 people died.
11. October 1961: Bianca C
Bianca C
The Germans first sank Bianca C during the Second World War. Workers raised her hull and refitted it as a cruise ship. On October 22, 1961, when docked near the Grenada coast, an explosion occurred in the engine room. Fires broke out onboard, and the ship sank. Nearly everyone made it off this ship. There was only one casualty.
12. September 1979: Angelina Lauro
Angelina Lauro first sailed in 1939. She was meant to be a ferry but was converted to a hospital ship during the war. When the war was over, the Angelina Lauro served as a passenger ship, cruising the world. She was sold in 1964 and refitted into a cruise ship and took her maiden voyage on March 6, 1966.
Angelina Lauro in Tilbury, 1976 (Photo Credit: Tony Garner)
In March of 1979, the Angelina Lauro caught fire while she was docked in St Thomas. The fire continued for days, weakening the hull. The ship filled with water and sank on March 30th.
13. February 1986: MS Mikhail Lermentov
In 1972, the MS Mikhail Lermentov entered service as an ocean liner; a decade later, she became a cruise ship. The ship departed Sydney on February 6, 1986, headed for a two-week New Zealand cruise.
Mikhail Lermontov (Photo Credit: U.Gomez)
The MS Mikhail Lermentov struck rocks near Cape Jackson ten days into her journey. Most of the 743 passengers and crew on board escaped in a lifeboat. Paval Zagladimov, a crew engineer, was the only casualty.
14. August 1986: SS Admiral Nakhimov
SS Admiral Nakhimov (Photo Credit: SergBuilo)
In 1925, the SS Admiral Nakhimov sailed as a passenger liner called the SS Berlin. It was then a hospital ship and a passenger ship. In August 1986, the ship was involved in a collision in Tsemes Bay on the northern coast of the Black Sea. The ship sank quickly, and 423 people died.
15. October 1988: MV Jupiter
Originally named the Moledet, this Greek cruise ship first sailed in 1961. On October 21, 1988, the MV Jupiter was hit by an Italian freighter off the coast of Greece while on a two-week Mediterranean study cruise, sinking shortly after. Counting the students, crew, and adults onboard, there were about 600 people onboard. Two crew members, one teacher, and one student were killed.
16. August 1991: MTS Oceanos
The MTS Oceanos, a Greek-registered ship, sank while traveling from East London, South Africa, to Durban through rough seas. The storm got worse as the ship sailed on.
MTS Oceanos
There were also some issues with the ship’s waste disposal system, and a vital ventilation pipe was broken. The pipe burst, and the ship filled with seawater. The captain and the crew abandoned the vessel. Thankfully, the entertainers on board took over the rescue efforts, and there were no fatalities.
17. September 1994: MS Estonia
The sinking of the MS Estonia (also previously named as Viking Sally) was one of history’s worst maritime disasters. The ship was sailing through the Baltic Sea when passengers and crew heard a bang followed by similar noises over the next few minutes.
MS Estonia
Around 1:15 am, the bow visor on the front of the ship separated, the loading ramp opened, and the ship flooded. People in their cabins had a difficult time reaching the boat deck; in all, 850 people died.
18. December 1994: MS Achille Lauro
In 1965, an ocean liner called Willem Ruys was changed into a cruise ship and renamed MS Achille Lauro. The vessel experienced multiple incidents. In 1953, she collided with the Angelino Lauro, though neither ship suffered extreme damage.
MS Achille Lauro
In 1975, she struck a cargo ship, and in 1985, she was hijacked. Multiple explosions and fires occurred onboard in 1965, 1972, and 1981, but the last fire, in 1994, would be the one to sink her. On November 30, a fire occurred while the ship was en route to South Africa. The ship began to list, and most of the 979 people on board evacuated the next morning. Two people died, and the ship sank on December 2.
19. May 1999: Sun Vista
Sun Vista entered service in 1963 and sailed for multiple cruise lines as the SS Galileo Galileiuntil she sank on May 20, 1999. She served as the Meridian, the first ship for Celebrity Cruises, and became Sun Vista in 1997 when she sailed for Sun Cruises.
Sun Vista (Photo Credit: Svend Raether)
There was a fire in the engine room, and the ship sank in the Strait of Malacca, the main shipping channel between the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. All of the people on board made it off safely.
20. October 2000: Britanis
The Britanis entered service in 1932 as the SS Monterey, an ocean liner. Eventually, in 1971, the vessel sailed for Fantasy Cruises, but Chandris, who operated Fantasy Cruises, switched its focus to another brand and stopped Fantasy Cruises operations.
Britanis
Seventeen years later, in 1988, the ship was sold and renamed. Plans changed, and she was sold for scrap. The ship began leaking when heading to the scrap yard. The ship was empty, so it was allowed to capsize off the South African coast near Cape Town.
21. December 2000: SeaBreeze
This ship set sail in 1958 for Costa Cruises as Federico C. She transferred to Premiere Cruises in 1983. While sailing for them, she was renamed three times. In September 2000, Premier Cruises ceased operations, and the SeaBreeze was laid up.
SeaBreeze sinking off of Cape Henry
Cruise Ventures III purchased her, and while traveling to Charleston, South Carolina, from Halifax, Nova Scotia, the boiler broke, causing significant damage. The ship sank near the coast of Virginia. All 34 members of the crew were saved.
22. November 2007: MV Explorer
The MV Explorer started life in 1969 as the MS Lindblad Explorer, a unique ship that sailed the Antarctic Ocean. She left for a 19-day cruise from Argentina on November 11, 2007, and crashed into an iceberg in the Bransfield Strait near the Falkland Islands 12 days later.
MS Explorer (Photo Credit: Reinhard Jahn)
The iceberg caused significant damage to the ship’s hull, and water started filling it. All 153 people onboard were able to escape in lifeboats, and they were rescued by the MS Nordnorge five hours later.
23. April 2007: MS Sea Diamond
MS Sea Diamond (Photo Credit: Wikiphilip)
The MS Sea Diamond first sailed as the Birka Princess for Birka Line cruises. She was renamed the Sea Diamond when she was bought by Louis Cruises in 2006. In 2007, she ran aground near Santorini and eventually sank. Almost all crew and passengers escaped safely, with two people unaccounted for.
24. January 2012: Costa Concordia
The Costa Concordia entered service in 2006. She departed for a week-long Mediterranean cruise on January 13, 2012, with about 3,229 people onboard. The captain veered off course when en route to its first port, sailing close to Giglio Island off the coast of Tuscany. It hit a large rock hours after it set out to sea.
Cruise Ship Tipped Over (Photo Credit: MZeta / Shutterstock)
The ship sustained severe damage to its hull; it flooded and lost power, and the rudder was positioned so the ship couldn’t be steered. Everyone on board had to be evacuated, and 32 people died.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many people have died as a result of a cruise ship sinking?
In the last 100 years, just shy of 2,000 people have lost their lives as a result of a cruise ship sinking. While tragic, it is worth noting that many of these losses occurred before the 1940s.
When discussing maritime disasters involving a passenger vessel, it is only natural that the mind is immediately drawn to the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912. While it is true that 1,517 lives were lost as a direct result of the sinking, it is also worth clarifying that the Titanic was not technically a cruise ship. Instead, it was a mail-carrying ocean liner.
When discussing how many cruise ships have sunk, this distinction is actually quite important. Cruise ships are designed specifically for leisure and exploration, so they return passengers to the original departure point; ocean liners, like the RMS Titanic, were designed primarily as a mode of transportation.
They carried passengers from one side of the ocean to the other in the same way that modern transatlantic flights carry passengers from North America to Europe and vice versa.
Put simply, once you remove ocean liner, cargo ship, ferry, and other types of vessel accidents from the equation, the number of cruise ships that have sunk emerges as a relatively small number.
How often do cruise ships sink?
Looking at the past 100 years, roughly one cruise ship has sunk every five years. While this may sound alarming, most of these occurred in the first half of the previous century. With that said, there have been some highly publicized cruise ship sinkings recently.
Part of why these events become such captivating international news stories has a lot to do with their infrequent nature. When you take a look just at the last 50 years, there have been a total of 15 cruise ships that have sunk. Of these, five sinkings occurred when the cruise ships were carrying no passengers.
Since 2000, only four cruise ships have sunk while at sea. These events, like the sinking of the Costa Concordia in 2012, always make international news and are very much in the public eye. Even casual observers will be familiar with these events, a testament to their rarity.
When was the most recent cruise ship sinking?
The most recent time that a cruise ship sank was in August of 2020, when the Orient Queen was severely damaged during the Beirut explosion. At the time, the ship was moored in the Port of Beirut and was not carrying any passengers.
Although two crew members were killed as a result of the explosion, things could have been much worse if the ship was fully loaded with passengers and crew. The explosion caused the ship to capsize and eventually sink. While the loss of the cruise ship was undoubtedly newsworthy, its sinking was completely due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances.
Being caught up in an explosion unrelated to the ship itself was more just a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time than a result of any fault in the ship’s design or the crew’s decision-making. This explains why the Mar Lines cruise line is involved in a lengthy lawsuit that caused the deadly explosion with the warehouse owners.
Final Words
While cruise ship accidents that result in sinking have occurred, they are incredibly rare, especially when considering the number of cruise ships that set sail each year without incident.
By studying the mistakes from the past, safety regulators and ship designers have been able to develop increasingly safe ships that keep their passengers and crew safe and dry, even in the roughest waters.
When you go to book your MSC Cruises itinerary, you may come across a special offering called MSC Yacht Club. Is this special level of cruise worth buying? What do you get with this VIP level of service?
We’re breaking down everything you need to know about MSC Yacht Club and whether or not it’s a good choice for you and your cruising family (hint: it probably is).
MSC Cruises is one of the largest cruise lines in the world, right up there with brands like Carnival, but if you don’t often cruise from ports located outside of the United States, you may not be that familiar with them. That’s because many of MSC Cruises’ passengers hail from European countries.
But, with the brand expanding its offerings and targeting more passengers from more locales around the world, you may find yourself interested in booking an MSC Cruises itinerary — especially once you get a look at some of the line’s amazing, larger-than-life ships, like the MSC Meraviglia.
When you book your cruise, you’ll come across the line’s MSC Yacht Club offering. The Yacht Club isn’t a loyalty program and it’s not just a set of suites. The Yacht Club is what MSC Cruises calls “a ship within a ship.”
It’s a luxury experience that takes your cruise to the next level — and if luxury experiences are something you value as a traveler, you’ll definitely want to pay the extra cash needed to be a member of this exclusive “club.” It’s also a great experience to stay away from the crowds.
MSC Yacht Club perks include access to the best suites, a private club-members-only restaurant, a private club-members-only pool and sun deck, and even your very own, 24-hour butler and concierge, priority embarkation and disembarkation. But that only scratches the surface.
Is MSC Yacht Club Really Worth It?
For many cruisers, yes, upgrading to an MSC Yacht Club cruise is going to be worth it. The complimentary dining and drinks will save you tons of cash. The butler and concierge service will save you tons of time. Then, the access to your private pools, deck, lounge, and more makes for a much more relaxing cruise experience.
What About the Cost?
When considering an upgrade to the MSC Yacht Club, it’s important to weigh the additional cost against the benefits it provides. While the exact pricing may vary depending on the ship and itinerary, the MSC Yacht Club experience typically comes at a premium compared to standard cruise accommodations. However, the added value and exclusive amenities can make it a worthy investment for those seeking a truly luxurious and pampering vacation.
MSC Yacht Club Restaurant
To determine if the cost justifies the experience, consider the value you place on amenities such as 24-hour butler service, access to private venues, unlimited complimentary drinks, and priority boarding and disembarkation.
Take into account the potential savings from not having to pay for specialty dining or drinks throughout your cruise. By examining the overall cost and comparing it to the additional benefits provided by the Yacht Club, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and desired level of luxury.
MSC Yacht Club Suites
The MSC Yacht Club premium luxury suites include, depending on the ship you’re on, anywhere from 70 to more than 100 different suite options. These options include interior suites, duplex suites, deluxe grand suites, new owner’s suites, executive and family suites, and royal suites.
Interior suites are, as you likely guessed, on the interior of the ship, but this is no drab and uncomfortable inner stateroom. Instead, interior suites are spacious (up to 226 square feet), with either king or twin beds, with a full sitting area, wardrobe, large bathroom with a vanity and even a coffee area.
(Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
Deluxe and deluxe grand suites are slightly larger, with a sitting area and occupancy for three to five guests and typically a small balcony with some seating.
If you’re traveling as more than just two or three people, you’ll probably want to upgrade to a duplex suite. The MSC Yacht Club duplex suites are humongous, with more than 600 square feet of interior space and nearly 250 square feet of exterior space, with a whirlpool-boasting balcony. There are two decks, occupancy for four travelers, walk-in closets, soaking tubs, a dining room and more.
MSC Meraviglia, MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suite (Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
Executive and family suites are similar to the duplex suite, only slightly smaller, though they do still offer occupancy for four. Unfortunately, executive and family suites do not come with balconies. However, they do come with gorgeous, panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows.
The new owner’s suites are even larger than the duplex suites, with a whopping more than 1,000 square feet of interior space and room for five travelers. Enjoy a huge deck, spacious bathroom, dining room, living area and more.
Lastly, the royal suites are smaller than the new owner’s and duplex suites, but they’re still pretty luxurious all the same, with occupancy for three to four guests, separating living areas and dining rooms, soaking tubs and showers, walk-in closets and more.
(Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
Whatever option you choose, though, your suite will be outfitted with gorgeous furnishings, from Myform memory foam bedding to Egyptian cotton sheets to marble bathroom counters and wood paneling throughout the living spaces. Plus, the suites even feature a few high-tech amenities, such as “smart” air conditioning and an interactive widescreen television. You even get your own in-suite laptop!
So are these lavish suites enough to convince you to upgrade to the experience? For some cruisers, that’s exactly the case. That’s because, if you’re wanting to book a suite on the coveted upper decks of any MSC Cruises ship, you have to upgrade to the MSC Yacht Club. These suites are only available to those guests.
Private Space
As we mentioned, just like you only get access to these upper-deck suites by booking the MSC Yacht Club experience, there are certain private VIP spaces throughout the MSC Cruises ships that are only open to MSC Yacht Club guests.
These private spaces include the restaurant, Top Sail Lounge and the sun deck and pool. What exactly can you expect in each?
MSC Meraviglia Top Sail Lounge (Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
The Top Sail Lounge can be found on those upper decks where the Yacht Club suites are also located. It’s your place to go for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely drink when you’re not exploring the rest of the ship. You’ll find complimentary drinks, snacks and desserts all day long, all in an upscale, yet laid-back, setting.
The One Sun Deck Complex includes a pool, two extra spa pools and a solarium. This is your place to go when you want to take a dip and enjoy the sun and water, but you don’t want to be surrounded by a lot of loud noise or other cruisers.
The private and luxurious sun deck feels a world away from the rest of the cruise ship. The complex also includes a bar, where you can find snacks and drinks all day long.
MSC Divina Yacht Club Bar (Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
Then, every MSC Yacht Club boasts its own private restaurant that’s open to Yacht Club guests only, and the name of the private restaurant will differ according to the MSC Cruises ship you’re on. So, for example, if you’re sailing on MSC Splendida, the restaurant is L’Olivo. If you’re sailing on MSC Divina, the restaurant is Le Muse, etcetera.
MSC Meraviglia Yacht Club Restaurant (Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
The great thing about these private restaurants? There are no scheduled dinner times, so you can come in and dine whenever you want. The restaurant is totally complimentary and offers gourmet fine dining in a luxurious setting.
Butler Service
One of the most beloved perks for frequent Yacht Club cruisers? They love the MSC Yacht Club butler service. And who wouldn’t? You’ll have 24/7 access to your very own personal butler, to help you make the most of your cruising experience.
Your butler meets you when the ship embarks, carries your bags, escorts you throughout the ship as you get acquainted and is then available to help you plan anything you like while cruising, whether it’s a special dinner or access to a special amenity. The 24/7 Yacht Club concierges are also available for much of the same tasks.
Other Amenities
Other MSC Yacht Club amenities include…
Complimentary drinks (including soft drifts, spirits, beers, wines and cocktails) both in the MSC Yacht Club venues and in your suite
International newspapers delivered to your suite daily
Access to a pillow menu, to pick your perfect fit
Private elevator entry to the spa, with massage and treatment rooms set aside for Yacht Club guests
Priority check in and check out
Access to a broader menu of fine wines and spirits
Nintendo Wiis in each suite
Priority reservations at the spa
Complimentary spa treatments, including a trip to the thermal suite and sauna in the Turkish bath
Access to bespoke shore excursions
Access to an exclusive shopping guide for shore excursions
Access to a personal photographer for shore excursions
Complimentary internet/WiFi
Of course, in addition to these extra perks that are only available to MSC Yacht Club guests, if you book an MSC Yacht Club suite, you’ll also get access to all of the other spaces and entertainment found throughout the rest of the cruise ship. You will, though, have to pay for those non-complimentary spaces and entertainment (such as dining at specialty restaurants), just like all the other cruisers.
What Are the Best MSC Yacht Club Perks?
If you’re still on the fence regarding booking a cruise within the MSC Yacht Club on an MSC Cruises ship, here are a few things that you’ll want to consider.
All the Time You’ll Save
No, really! That’s the great thing about priority boarding and priority check-in and check-out. There’s no waiting in long lines or spending your valuable vacation time with extra chores you don’t want to do. The priority boarding and check-in and check-out processes for MSC Yacht Club guests are seamless, easy and headache-free, so you can spend your vacation time actually relaxing.
Plus, you’ll save extra time with your cruise planning, too, thanks to the stellar butler service. Want to reserve dinner at one of the specialty restaurants on your cruise ship? There’s no need to do research or wait on the phone to make your reservation. Just talk to your butler and they’ll handle the rest, booking you the perfect experience.
MSC Virtuosa in Port (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
The same thing goes for shore excursions. The concierges and butlers help make your planning process a breeze, so all you need to do is tell them what you want, and they’ll take it from there.
More privacy and fewer crowds
One of the worst parts (for many travelers) of going on a cruise or staying at a big resort? The crowds and lack of privacy. But when you go to the private MSC Yacht Club spaces, like the pool deck and restaurant, you get access to fine dining and stellar pool areas that you expect from a popular luxury ship, but without all the crowds, noise and hustle and bustle. It makes for a more relaxing experience, and one that feels more exclusive, too.
Free drinks
If you don’t purchase a drink package on your cruise (or even if you do), all that vacation drinking can turn costly. Even if you don’t consider yourself that much of a party animal, we all likely drink a little more than normal when on vacay, and all those cocktails can start to add up.
Luckily, if you’re staying in a MSC Yacht Club suite, you can enjoy free-flowing drinks of any kind, all day long, from both your in-suite minibar and the lounge, restaurant, and pool bar within the private spaces.
FAQ
What is included in MSC Yacht Club?
MSC Yacht Club gives cruisers access to 24-hour butler service, a dedicated concierge, private venues, extra amenities, an exclusive restaurant, unlimited drinks, luxury suites, special shore excursions, priority check in and check out, free WiFi and more.
Is the MSC Yacht Club offered on all ships?
According to MSC Cruises, MSC Yacht Club is currently available on board MSC Seashore, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Preziosa, MSC Divina, MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia.
How to become an MSC Yacht Club member?
When booking your cruise, use the handy search filter to only view bookable sailings with MSC Yacht Club suites available. From there, you can book your cruise like normal and rest assured that you’ll enjoy the premier experience that MSC Yacht Club offers.
Christmas is an exciting time of year, and is even more so when you will be spending the holiday on board a cruise ship, whether you are sailing in the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Europe, or another amazing destination.
Every cruise line, from Carnival to Norwegian to Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and more, takes extra steps to make holiday vacations special and memorable.
But what can you expect on a Christmas cruise and how is it different than cruising at other times of year? Is taking a holiday cruise really worthwhile? I have taken multiple holiday cruises and enjoyed both the early and late days of the season onboard Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and other cruise lines – so let me share with you what to expect and how to make your merriest holiday ever!
While Christmas arrives every year on December 25, the exact dates when holiday celebrations occur on cruise ships can vary. While each cruise line will have at least some festivities throughout the season, the cheeriest of holiday cruises might start as early as late November or early December and could stretch past New Year’s Eve and into the first few days of January, depending on each individual ship’s itinerary and sailing dates.
Cruise Couple on a Christmas Cruise (Photo Credit: Ihor Koptilin)
If you want to be sure you are onboard a holiday sailing, check the dates carefully or contact the cruise line to ensure their seasonal celebrations will be in full swing on your departure date.
How holiday celebrations are handled on board will depend on the cruise line, the length of the cruise, the exact itinerary, and where the ship is embarking for each sailing. For each line, however, the climax of the celebratory season is the week of December 25, and that is when passengers will see the most seasonal spirit on board.
What You Will Always Find on a Cruise – Even at Christmas
It is important to note that even during the holiday season, cruise lines do not sacrifice their signature services, fun, and luxury. Regardless of when you set sail, you’ll still be treated to attentive service, delicious gourmet food, exciting entertainment, exotic ports of call, diverse shore excursion options, relaxing spa facilities, and a wide range of amenities.
Furthermore, a full schedule of activities such as trivia contests, craft projects, cooking demonstrations, casino tournaments, deck parties, poolside games, production shows, comedy acts, and more will also be part of every cruise.
Christmas on Carnival Cruise (Photo Credit: Ihor Koptilin)
No matter what holiday you may celebrate – or none at all – these fabulous facets of a cruise vacation are always available. While there may be more holiday touches on board during the Christmas season, you never need to worry about the basics of a cruise vacation being neglected.
Furthermore, while you will certainly notice the holiday spirit onboard, it does not generally come across as too overwhelming. While seasonal touches will be found everywhere, the “regular” parts of a cruise don’t disappear, and cruise lines take great care not to intrude on any individual’s seasonal choices.
Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line
Unless you request and arrange it in advance, for example, your stateroom won’t be decorated for the holidays before you arrive. Nor will you be forced to participate in any holiday activities you may not enjoy or not feel comfortable with.
Just as with any cruise, you can choose what you wish to do, how much you want to participate, and truly customize your cruise vacation just as you can at any other time of year.
Special Activities on a Christmas Cruise
Depending on the cruise line, sailing date, port itinerary, and passenger complement, a wide variety of holiday happenings may be found on board a cruise ship. Some of the holiday fun and Christmas activities you may find could be…
A countdown calendar to the actual holiday, or countdowns as individual events begin
Holiday-themed craft projects, such as making cards, garlands, gift bags, or ornaments
Lighting events, such as a Hanukkah menorah, Kwanzaa, or Christmas tree lighting ceremony
Gingerbread house or village displays or decorating activities
Cookie decorating activities, classes, or contests
Christmas costume or ugly sweater contests
Caroling parties or holiday music from live bands and singers
Pajama parties for Christmas morning breakfast or brunch
Letter writing to Santa with a North Pole mailbox onboard
Visits from Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, or other seasonal celebrities
Holiday story times or Christmas bedtime stories
“Snow” celebrations on deck or in a large atrium
Christmas movies offered at poolside screens, onboard cinemas, or in-cabin televisions
A special Christmas show or other holiday-themed entertainment
Christmas or other holiday-themed trivia contests
Scavenger hunts to find snowmen, elves, candy canes, or other holiday items
Special themed activities for kids in onboard children’s programs
Religious services or non-denominational Christmas services
Special gifts for passengers or seasonal items available in gift ships
While not all of these activities are offered on every cruise or with every cruise line, any sailing near Christmas is sure to have special activities in store for its passengers to celebrate.
Other Holiday Touches You’ll Find on a Cruise Ship
Seasonal activities aren’t the only holiday fun you’ll find on a Christmas cruise. During the holiday season, ships are decked out in their finest seasonal attire with garlands, wreaths, ribbons, twinkle lights, trees, presents, gingerbread village displays, and other holiday decorations in all public areas, and popular carols may be playing onboard.
Holiday Treats on Celebrity Infinity (Photo Credit: Todamo)
Gift shops may be offering specials so you can pick up that seasonal souvenir for everyone on your holiday list, and on-board photography studios may offer specials to turn your very best formal night or casual portraits into holiday cards with seasonal backdrops.
Menus are infused with holiday favorites and seasonal drinks with hot chocolate, eggnog, cranberry, or pumpkin may appear as specials during Christmas sailings.
On most cruise ships, a special gala turkey or ham dinner will be held in the Main Dining Room on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, with both classic holiday dishes and elevated menu choices. Even more casual dining options, such as the buffet, will offer special Christmas dinner dishes.
As you pull into ports of call or private island destinations you’ll be greeted with local festive flair and decorations. Some cruise destinations may be in the midst of their own celebrations with parades, holiday bazaars, and other seasonal fun.
Christmas Tree at Royal Caribbean’s Labadee, Haiti (Photo Credit: EWY Media)
Even passengers get into the spirit and you’re likely to see plenty of stateroom doors decorated with holiday touches, such as Christmas trees, menorahs, wreaths, or other seasonal symbols. More than one passenger is likely to be wearing a Santa hat, whimsical antlers, a light-up necklace, seasonal sweater, or other holiday attire.
But Is a Christmas Cruise Worth It?
While there is a lot going on that makes Christmas cruises extra memorable, these holiday sailings also command a premium price and often sell out months, if not years, before the holiday season. It may be necessary to plan well in advance to take advantage of the best deals, especially if airfare or pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations may be necessary.
Furthermore, setting sail for Christmas means leaving most of one’s own holiday traditions back on land, including special events, religious services, home decorations, traditional meals, and visits with family members and friends. Of course, many families make a Christmas cruise a tradition in itself, and there’s no better way to spend the holiday than with those you love the most.
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz
A holiday sailing can dramatically reduce the traditional craziness of the season. Instead, those tasks are taken care of by the ship’s crew, and guests can truly relax and enjoy the season.
There is no need to decorate your house when you won’t be home to enjoy it, you don’t need to plan elaborate meals or bake dozens of cookies when the gourmet chefs on board will do so, and you don’t need to clean your house for guests when you’re the guest and dedicated attendants spruce up your stateroom each day.
Furthermore, you don’t need to shop for gifts that may just get forgotten, lost, or broken in a few months, and instead the cruise is your gift to yourself and the family members or friends who join you. Onboard, you will make memories to last a lifetime with the different ports of call you visit, shore tours you experience, specialty dining you indulge in, and other fun.
Photo Courtesy: Princess Cruises
A Christmas cruise also lets you escape winter weather and icy roads, frozen fingers, or snow days. It can also be easier to arrange for family members from distant homes to get together when you’re all on the same ship, rather than juggling many different schedules and commitments. After the holiday, you don’t have the hassle of cleaning up after the exuberance or putting away decorations – you just have to unpack your luggage after the cruise.
It can be hard, however, to say bon voyage to family traditions that may have been built up over several generations. If you will terribly miss the special decorations, home-baked treats, Hallmark Channel movies, the excitement of Christmas morning, and other parts of the season at home, it might be best to set sail earlier in the season or after December 25 to get a lot of the holiday spirit on board without completely missing your home traditions as well.
Bringing Your Own Holiday Celebrations Onboard
Experienced cruisers often find a way to bring some of their own traditions onboard, even when setting sail during the Christmas season. Decorating stateroom doors or inside one’s cabin, for example, can use favorite holiday themes or special decorations from home (just be sure the items are permitted onboard!).
Similarly, guests could bring along a sealed container of their favorite holiday treat to be sure they get that familiar taste of the season no matter which ports of call they visit.
Photo By: Amber Nolan
Many guests even bring Christmas gifts onboard to exchange with family members on the cruise, as well as extra gifts for crew members who are celebrating the holidays far from their own families.
Just be sure the packages are not yet wrapped before boarding, so they can easily pass through security. Gift bags and pre-cut wrapping paper are great ways to be able to wrap gifts onboard.
No matter how you like to celebrate the holiday season, you’re sure to find festive fun on a Christmas cruise. While it can be hard to leave one’s home traditions behind at this special time of year, with so much going on and so many amazing holiday touches on board, an oceangoing holiday could be your very best Christmas ever and a new family tradition to enjoy year after year. Happy Holidays!
The island paradise of St. Kitts welcomed the Celebrity Beyond for the first time. The ship’s inaugural visit to this Caribbean destination is the first of several taking place during the 2023-2024 cruise season, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between Celebrity Cruises and the small country.
Celebrity Beyond’s Inaugural Visit To St. Kitts
On the morning of December 8, 2023, Celebrity Beyond, part of Celebrity’s Edge-class fleet,arrived in St. Kitts for her inaugural cruise call.
The Celebrity Cruises ship visited the small Caribbean country as part of its 10-night Southern Caribbean cruise, which also included Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Roseau, Dominica; Bridgetown, Barbados; and St. Johns, Antigua.
St. Kitts is part of the dual-island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, which is located in the Eastern Caribbean. The ship docked in Basseterre, which is the capital and the gateway to popular tourist destinations like South Friar’s Bay, Independence Square, and the Victorian Berkeley Memorial Clock Tower.
Celebrity is one of many cruise lines visiting St. Kitts during the island country’s unusually busy winter season. The Caribbean cruise port expects 342 ships to dock on its shores this winter, marking an unprecedented surge in tourism, with bigger and newer ships adding St. Kitts to their itineraries.
Photo Copyright: Doctor Alonso / Shutterstock
The vesselreceived a warm welcome from the locals and the St. Kitts Tourism Authority alike. With more port calls on the horizon in the 2023-2024 cruise season, St. Kitts Tourism Authority is looking forward to strengthening its relationship with Celebrity Cruises and showing guests what the island has to offer.
“The arrival of Celebrity Beyond marks a significant milestone in our flourishing partnership with Celebrity Cruises. We are delighted to introduce our island paradise as a premier destination on this ship’s itinerary. St. Kitts boasts an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, and we look forward to showcasing the best that our island has to offer to all Celebrity Beyond passengers,” says Hon. Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism.
The island will be included as part of Celebrity’s 10-night “Ultimate Southern Caribbean” voyages onboard Celebrity Beyond, which are offered on select dates between January and April in 2024 and depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Along with St. Kitts, the luxury ship will also be sailing to Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Castries, St. Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados; and St. Johns, Antigua.
Future Sailings To St. Kitts
Celebrity Cruiseswill return to St. Kitts’s pristine shores several more times in the 2023-2024 season, as well as in the years beyond.
Photo Courtesy: St. Kitts Tourism
For cruisers who like to plan ahead, Celebrity has also released seven-night itineraries onboard Celebrity Beyond that include St. Kitts, beginning in October 2025 through April 2026. These cruises will set sail from Miami, Florida, and explore St. Kitts, St. Thomas, and Puerto Plata.
Celebrity Ascent, the most recent addition to Celebrity’s Edge-class fleet, will also follow its sister ship’s lead. The Celebrity Ascent will make her own inaugural cruise call to St. Kittsat the end of December after completing her maiden voyage, which began on December 3.
Like the Celebrity Beyond, the Celebrity Ascent also has itineraries scheduled through 2026 that include St. Kittsas a port of call.
