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Cruise Ship Entertainer Saves Passenger’s Life Just Before Show

Catie Kovelman
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Cruise Ship Entertainer Saves Passenger’s Life Just Before Show

Most people celebrate their birthdays with a night out on the town or by hosting a party with friends and family. But one cruise ship entertainer rang in his 50th year by saving a passenger’s life. 

From Cruise Ship Entertainer To Hero

Pete Matthews, a comedian and juggler, was celebrating his 50th birthday with a week of performances on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas as part of a seven-day cruise to the Bahamas. 

On December 12, 2023, Matthews was grabbing a drink for his wife between shows when he happened to be in the right place at the right time. The entertainer was on his way back to his cabin when he heard a commotion coming from a nearby hallway. 

“These guys, probably in their 30s, were shouting ‘dad, dad, don’t die, dad.’ It was a real panic, and I ran down the corridor, dressed and ready for my show, and saw this chap on the floor, slumped against the wall,” Matthews recalled to the Daily Echo.

The comedian stumbled upon 58-year-old Joe Kutza in cardiac distress. By the time Matthews arrived, the man had turned purple from lack of oxygen. Matthews immediately sprang into action and began administering CPR and chest compressions with the help of another passenger until medics arrived around 5 minutes later.

Anthem of the Seas Cruise Ship
Anthem of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Wayleebird / Shutterstock)

“I was assisted by a firefighter and EMT called Justin and the doctors and medical staff did an amazing job in reviving Joe and getting him medivac’d off the ship in the early hours. I believe Joe has since had a pacemaker fitted,” Matthews commented on his Facebook page.

Luckily for the distressed passenger and his family, Matthews was well versed in first aid and CPR as part of his Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) course, a subject he first started pursuing over 20 years ago. 

Once help arrived, Matthews had to turn his attention to his next performance, but couldn’t keep his mind off the ailing passenger. The entertainer’s hands shook throughout his set.

“The most surreal moment of it all was the fact that 15 minutes after this happened, I’m on stage cracking funnies and making an audience laugh, and they were oblivious to the fact that that had just happened,” Matthews told the Daily Echo. 

After his performance, a crew member informed Matthews that Kutza was recovering in the hospital and that the entertainer’s quick actions saved his life. Matthews immediately burst into tears of joy and relief. 

Pete Matthews
Pete Matthews

Matthews later visited Kutza in the hospital, where he shared a joyful reunion with Kutza and his family. The entertainer even shared a celebratory drink with Kutza’s loved ones.

“I met the man, Joe, now wired up with a breathing mask on, and was introduced as the man that saved his life,” says Matthews. “He just keeps saying that I was his guardian angel.”

Following the incident, Kutza has returned home to Pennsylvania where he is recovering and continues to stay in touch with Matthews. 

Pete Matthews Will Be Back At Sea Early In 2024 

Pete Matthews, who hails from West Parley, has been juggling and entertaining professionally since he was a teenager. The UK native, who can be found on social media as The Crazy Juggler, primarily performs on cruise ships. 

Matthews has sailed all over the world on a variety of different cruise lines, and will be back at sea early next year. 

The comedian announced on his Facebook page that he will be part of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas’ inaugural sailings beginning at the end of January 2024. Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world and is scheduled to embark on her maiden voyage on January 27, 2024.

According to the entertainer’s website, Matthews will be back onboard Anthem of the Seas multiple times throughout 2024, as well as several other ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. Over the course of the year, he will also perform on Jewel of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas.

Cruise Ship Damaged by Rogue Wave, Loses Power

Melissa Mayntz
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Cruise Ship Damaged by Rogue Wave, Loses Power

The Hurtigruten expedition ship MS Maud was damaged by a rogue wave while sailing in the North Sea between Norway, Denmark, and the UK on Thursday, December 21, 2023.

Windows were broken in the incident and the ship lost power for a brief time and was temporarily adrift. No serious injuries have been reported, and the ship is now receiving navigational assistance.

Hurtigruten Ship Hit By Rogue Wave

MS Maud, finishing a 14-night “Northern Lights” expedition cruise roundtrip from Tilbury, UK, was struck by a rogue wave at approximately 4 p.m. on Thursday, December 21, 2023. The wave broke out several windows on the ship’s bridge, which caused a temporary loss of power and navigational ability, setting the ship briefly adrift.

Authorities were quickly alerted to the emergency, and multiple nearby vessels and rescue personnel responded to the situation.

“In line with our robust operational protocols, the crew immediately carried out thorough safety checks and technical assessments, in addition to making sure that everyone on board is as well as the conditions allow,” a statement from the cruise line read. “Further assessments are now being made for onward sailing.”

No serious injuries have been reported and the ship is considered in stable condition, though unable to navigate independently. The vessel is being steered manually from the engine room. Tow assistance is being arranged as soon as it is safe to do so.

Satellite tracking data shows the 16,151-gross-ton cruise ship moving at just 2-3 knots (2-4 miles per hour / 4-6 kilometers per hour). At the ship’s current location, wind is reported at approximately 35 knots (40 mph / 65 kph).

Hurtigruten MS Maud
Hurtigruten MS Maud (Photo Credit: Bjoern Wylezich)

Guests onboard have shared video of the ship’s extreme rocking motion, though the vessel does remain safe – if not as comfortable as passengers would like.

Read Also: Cruise Ship vs Giant Wave – How Do the Ships Survive?

In situations like this, guests would be asked to remain in their staterooms rather than moving around the corridors or public areas, in case sudden motion would make moving about the ship dangerous. The ship’s captain would provide updates as often as possible.

While MS Maud can welcome 532 passengers, only 266 are onboard at the moment. Also onboard are 131 crew members who will do everything possible to ensure all guests remain comfortable in these challenging conditions.

Impact on the Next Cruise

MS Maud‘s next cruise, a 13-night Christmas Expedition to various ports in Norway, is reported as cancelled so the damage to the vessel can be assessed and repaired.

That holiday sailing was to have departed Tilbury on Saturday, December 23. Now, it is not yet confirmed where MS Maud will be docking, as the ship may be taken directly to an available shipyard in Denmark or Germany for immediate repair work. Those arrangements have not yet been finalized.

Cruise Ship Hurricane
Cruise Ship Hurricane (Photo Credit: PHkorsart)

If this is the case, guests would likely be flown home as soon as possible, depending on what arrangements can be made when the ship is docked. The severe weather in the North Sea is likely to hamper when the ship can return to port, though all efforts will be made for a timely arrival.

Until the damage can be assessed, there is no way to know whether or not only one future sailing is impacted. Guests booked on MS Maud in the next few weeks will want to stay in close contact with the cruise line or their travel agent to stay updated about any changes or cancellations.

Cruise Hive’s thoughts are with all passengers and crew onboard MS Maud for a safe sailing that is as smooth as possible, and with all emergency personnel responding to this tense and challenging situation.

Royal Caribbean Offers Look at Key Icon of the Seas Feature

Melissa Mayntz
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Royal Caribbean Offers Look at Key Icon of the Seas Feature

Royal Caribbean International has released a new behind-the-scenes video detailing the concept, importance, and artistry behind the Pearl, a first-of-its-kind feature on Icon of the Seas. The impressive orb is much more than just a structure, and from concept to implementation, the Pearl required intense innovation to come to life.

Behind the Scenes of the Pearl

A new “Icon Extra” episode, continuing the popular “Building an Icon” series, has gone behind the scenes of the Pearl, revealing this innovative structure and what it provides to the world’s largest cruise ship.

The Pearl is located midship on the port side of Icon of the Seas, stretching from Deck 5 to Deck 8, with a staircase through the interior for guests to move from the Royal Promenade on Deck 5 up to the Pearl Cafe on Deck 6. But what exactly is this massive structure, what does it do, and how was it developed?

“As we were designing the Royal Promenade and we were focused on how do we bring light and water into that space, which is not something that’s easy to do because there’s not superstructure to support it,” said Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. “That actually gave birth to the Pearl.”

Read Also: Creating Icon of the Seas’ Royal Promenade

The Pearl is 52.5 feet (16 meters) in diameter, and serves as the load-bearing superstructure to support the ship’s port side, while simultaneously bringing in a sense of space and light to provide an airy, open feel to the interior public spaces.

More Than Structure

The Pearl, however, is more than just functional superstructure in Icon of the Seas‘ overall design, and adds so much more than just light to experiences aboard the new, massive ship.

“The Pearl has a lot of different purposes,” said Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer for Royal Caribbean International. “It’s a bit art, a bit sculpture, a bit experience, a bit wow – but all in an architectural marvel.”

The Pearl goes beyond the skylight structures familiar aboard other Royal Caribbean ships that bring light into the Royal Promenade. Just like many other features of Icon of the Seas, the giant orb is a completely new design that required innovation and ingenuity to bring to life.

The design evolved from having pillars through the Pearl to removing bulkheads and turning the entire surface of the globe into architectural support.

Icon of the Seas Sphere Installed
Courtesy: Royal Caribbean

“The Pearl is a fundamental piece of the ship’s structure,” said Jay Rosser, Manager of Product Development for Royal Caribbean International. “It is supporting all of the staterooms above it, Central Park which is on Deck 8 – that 16 meter sphere of steel is taller than the Hollywood Sign in California.”

The open structure of the sphere lets the sunlight in from the adjacent 4-deck-high panoramic glass wall, bringing amazing amounts of light into the ship’s interior.

Kinetic Art and Experience

The Pearl is the world’s largest kinetic art sculpture, which has taken great innovation just to construct. The structure was pre-outfitted before being installed onboard, which saved time and effort in the long run to ensure it was fully function and construction timelines were met.

The interior of the Pearl is composed of kinetic tiles with color-changing light and reflection effects that will evolve throughout the day and with different activities of the ship.

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: Jouni Niskakoski)

“The Pearl was designed to create this ever-changing experience within itself, but also within the guests’ mindset,” said Jennifer Goswami, Director of Product Development for Royal Caribbean International. “It’s a vibe. There’ll be a daytime experience, nighttime, sea day, Perfect Day, a goodbye experience… The Pearl herself will feel very moody and will really bring Icon to life.”

Great detail was taken to ensure the artwork aspects of the structure worked well together, from the tile’s base color and gloss level to shimmer effects and the overall programming to ensure all the tiles flowed seamlessly together.

Undoubtedly, different effects will also be used at different times, coordinating the experience of the Pearl with ongoing activities along the Royal Promenade.

Since the giant sphere was first spotted, there has been great speculation about what the Pearl really is. Now, the truth is revealed – just one month before the very first guests will step aboard Icon of the Seas to experience the Pearl for themselves.

Carnival Surges with Record Bookings, Signaling a Bright Future

Lissa Poirot
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Carnival Surges with Record Bookings, Signaling a Bright Future

Embarking on a triumphant journey into 2024, Carnival Corporation stands at the forefront of the cruise industry’s resurgence, with record-breaking bookings and eagerly anticipated launches of a new ship and private island destination.

Record Bookings Reflect Rising Cruise Popularity

Carnival Corporation witnessed an unprecedented surge in bookings, reaching a historic peak as it closed Q4 2023. This increase is particularly noteworthy around key sales periods such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

The substantial rise in bookings reflects a growing consumer interest in cruise vacations, indicating a robust recovery and a promising future for the cruise industry.

The company reports that almost two-thirds of its occupancy for 2024 is already booked, highlighting the enduring appeal of cruising post-pandemic. Notably, occupancy in the fourth quarter of 2023 was over 101 percent, in line with the company’s expectations.

Worth Reading: What Cruise Lines Does Carnival Own?

Additionally, total customer deposits reached a fourth-quarter record of $6.4 billion, surpassing the previous fourth-quarter record of $5.1 billion (as of November 30, 2022) by 25 percent.

“We ended the year on a high note with another record-breaking quarter that exceeded expectations,” said Josh Weinstein, Carnival Corporation’s chief executive officer. “In fact, we consistently outperformed in all four quarters of the year, buoyed by the strengthening demand environment across all our brands.”

Carnival Cruise Line Miami Office
Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive

The demand is not limited to specific markets; North American brands like Princess Cruises and Holland America Line and European brands such as AIDA and Costa have seen significant growth. This wide-ranging interest underscores the global appeal of Carnival’s offerings.

Looking Ahead to Carnival’s Future

As Carnival Corporation sails into 2024, the company is gearing up for a year of significant growth, with projections pointing towards a return to historical occupancy levels and an anticipated growth of over 30 percent compared to 2023. This outlook underscores Carnival’s resilience and leadership in the cruise industry. 

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

Key strategies for 2024 include the launch of new ships like Carnival Jubilee and the exploration of new destinations, including Celebration Key. These initiatives, coupled with a focus on sustainable practices and enhancing guest experiences, are expected to play a pivotal role in driving the company’s revenue growth and elevating the guest experience.

Carnival Jubilee Cruise Ship
Carnival Jubilee Cruise Ship

Carnival Jubilee is set to debt on December 23 from its homeport in Galveston, Texas, becoming the 26th ship in the Carnival fleet and the third in the Excel class, alongside sister ships Mardi Gras and Celebration.

The vessel, matching its sister ships in size, has a gross tonnage of 183,521 and can accommodate 5,374 guests at double occupancy. At full capacity, the ship can host as many as 6,631 passengers, along with over 1,700 international crew members.

This ship, however, will hold the title of the newest fleet member for only a short period, as Carnival Firenze is scheduled to join the fleet in April 2024. Carnival Firenze, currently undergoing her conversion from Costa Cruises, will join Carnival Cruise Line, becoming the second ship under the “Carnival Fun, Italian Style” program following Carnival Venezia.

Earlier this year, Carnival Cruise Line also revealed its first itineraries for Celebration Key, its new $200-million private destination on Grand Bahama Island. Set to open in 2025, Celebration Key is expected to become a tropical paradise exclusively available to Carnival’s guests. Twelve Carnival ships from eight different homeports will embark on journeys to Celebration Key in 2025 and 2026, with 400 cruises now open for booking.

Carnival Cruise Line currently has no further ships on order.

Carnival Passengers Find Cars Flooded After Stormy Cruise

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Passengers Find Cars Flooded After Stormy Cruise

Guests debarking Carnival Sunshine after a rough cruise impacted by the massive storm system that spread from the Gulf of Mexico to the Bahamas over the weekend were in for an even rougher surprise when they reached their cars.

Flooding in downtown Charleston, South Carolina – Carnival Sunshine‘s homeport – caused extensive damage to many vehicles, with saltwater soaking engines and ultimately totally the cars.

Cruise Guests’ Cars Totaled in Parking Lot

Guests who enjoyed Carnival Sunshine‘s December 14, 2023 sailing had an unpleasant surprise once they arrived back in Charleston, South Carolina on Monday, December 18. The ship was delayed in returning to her homeport due to rough weather while sailing back from the Bahamas, but that was only the beginning of passengers’ difficulties in getting home.

The vicious coastal storm that contributed to the ship’s delay caused extensive flooding in Charleston, including several feet of flooding in cruise terminal parking lots.

According to WMBF News, dozens of travelers found their cars totaled and completely unable to start after having soaked in saltwater from the flooding. This led to confusion and frustration, particularly as there was little communication or assistance available to sort out the situation.

Carnival Cruise Line did respond to guests’ concerns through their Public Relations department, but is unable to completely resolve the situation.

“We regret that some of our guests’ vehicles parked in the garage were impacted by the recent storm. We have let officials know that people were unhappy, and we suggest you contact the parking authorities,” the cruise line explained. “We assisted in some ways where we could, for instance with helping guests connect with their insurance providers, but ultimately this was not our facility.”

All travelers should be aware that most parking facilities, even secure facilities with hefty parking fees, do not assume responsibility for any theft, loss, or damage that may occur while a vehicle is parked.

The South Carolina Ports Authority also responded to concerns, confirming that some passenger vehicles were damaged and outlining what assistance they were able to provide.

Carnival Sunshine in Charleston
Photo Credit: Daniel Wright98 / Shutterstock

“The South Carolina Ports team worked closely with passengers to provide assistance from the moment they arrived until the last passenger departed the terminal,” the South Carolina Ports Authority said.

Port employees remained on site until all passengers had been able to leave the terminal and parking area, and helped impacted passengers collect all necessary documentation to file reports with their insurance companies. The staff helped call tow companies, pumped water out of vehicles, provided jump starts, and assisted with finding transportation to local hotels if needed.

Furthermore, if guests are leaving their totaled vehicles in the parking lot for the time being, they are not being charged for additional days and can leave their vehicles as long as necessary.

“While SC Ports does not assume liability for vehicles or personal property left in the passenger parking areas, we are committed to continuing to support our valued cruise customers,” the authorities said.

Exactly what compensation individual guests will receive will depend on the insurance coverage they may have on their vehicles, as neither the cruise line nor the cruise port are liable for the damage.

How to Protect a Parked Car

It can be nerve-wracking to park one’s car in an unfamiliar place and potentially expose it to storm damage, flooding, theft, vandalism, or other damage.

To minimize these risks, cruise travelers should always thoroughly research where they plan to park their vehicle, including reading reviews of available parking facilities as well as checking expected weather reports, recent crime statistics, and other available information. Reading the terms and conditions of parking facilities can also be helpful.

Port Canaveral Cruise Parking
Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock

When parking, choosing to leave one’s vehicle in a covered, elevated location – such as on the second story of a multi-level parking garage – can be helpful to minimize potential risks from hail, flooding, or other storm damage, though of course this is not always an available option.

Of course, guests should always be sure their vehicle is locked with any valuables removed or stored out of sight. Windows should be rolled up and lights turned off so there is no easy way to enter the vehicle and the battery will not accidentally drain.

Read Also: Passengers Return to Damaged Vehicles After Parking for Carnival Cruise

In case problems were to occur, it can be helpful to take a few photos of the car and its surroundings before leaving for the cruise. This can provide valuable information to an insurance company if something were to happen while the vehicle is parked.

If travelers do return to a damaged vehicle, it is important to document the damage as thoroughly as possible and to contact one’s insurance company immediately to follow their claims process as closely as possible.

Alerting the parking authorities and the cruise line can also provide further evidence for a claim, though it is unlikely that either party will bear any liability for damages.

Royal Caribbean’s 274-Night World Cruise is Making a Buzz

Lissa Poirot
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Royal Caribbean’s 274-Night World Cruise is Making a Buzz

The 9-month voyage on the Serenade of the Seas is more than just a global journey; it’s also the backdrop of a new digital reality show, captivating audiences on TikTok.

Royal Caribbean’s ‘Ultimate World Cruise’ Creates Waves on Social Media

Royal Caribbean’s “Ultimate World Cruise,” a 274-night journey visiting over 60 countries, has become the latest viral sensation on TikTok since its departure from Miami on December 10. The extraordinary voyage has attracted a diverse group of social media influencers, transforming the cruise into a source of viral content.

Each day, new personalities emerge, captivating followers with their unique experiences and perspectives. This dynamic on the ship has not only intrigued audiences but also sparked a keen interest in the community dynamics among passengers.

@nchimad

I’m staying on cruisetok for the next nine months😂 I want to see everything!! #royalcaribbeancruise #9monthcruise #whewchile #oceano #fyp #foryourpage

♬ original sound – ND

With unlimited alcohol and a mix of personalities, TikTokers like @nchimad, calling herself Sea Tea Director, are actively chronicling and sharing the evolving stories with thousands of followers, turning the cruise into a real-time social experiment.

Since launching on the cruise 10 days ago, many of the content creators have nearly doubled their followers.

Royal Caribbean’s Epic Voyage Features New Destinations and World Wonders

Serenade of the Seas is making history by being the first-ever cruise to cover all seven continents. Its roundtrip itinerary includes over 150 destinations across 65 countries, including 11 of the world’s most famous wonders.

Fifty-seven of these destinations are new additions to Royal Caribbean, added specifically for this global expedition. Highlights include Casablanca, Morocco; Qaqortoq, Greenland; and Shimizu, Japan, the latter serving as a gateway to Mount Fuji.

Said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, “Now, more than ever, people have resolved to travel the world and make up for lost time. Royal Caribbean is making that a reality with the ultimate dream vacation that welcomes those seeking adventure and exploration to taste, dance, and dream with us around the world.”

The cruise’s itinerary is segmented into various legs, each offering a unique exploration. It begins in the Americas, covering 36 destinations through February 11, 2024, setting course initially for the Caribbean before traveling to Central and South America.

Passengers will see four stunning wonders, including Chichen Itza in Mexico, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Iguazu Falls in Argentina, and Machu Picchu in Peru.

Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas (Photo Credit: Lisa Bronitt / Shutterstock)

From February 11 through May 9, 2024, the ship will travel to Asia-Pacific to visit 40 destinations. Passengers will have a chance to dive into Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and visit the Great Wall of China and India’s Taj Mahal before setting off on May 9 for the Middle East and the Mediterranean.

Read Also: What Is a Transatlantic Cruise?

On this leg of the adventure, which continues through September 9, 2024, cruisers will visit 44 destinations and see Jordan’s lost city of Petra, the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, Temple of Artemis in Turkey, and the Roman Colosseum. 

The final leg, from July 10 through September 10, 2024, covers 40 destinations, including iconic cities like Barcelona, Paris, and Morocco, before returning to Miami with a stop in New York City.

TikTok Influencers to Follow on the ‘Ultimate Cruise’

A selection of TikTok creators have become prominent figures in showcasing life on the 9-month voyage, each offering their unique perspective. For example, @brooklynschwetje, with more than 118,000 followers, shares daily cruise life with her family, while @littleratbrain brings a vibrant and entertaining perspective, showcasing life in an interior cabin without windows. Her unique content style has led to a rapid increase in her following, now closing in on 62,000.

@brooklynschwetje

UWC BOARDING DAY!!!🌎🚢 #ultimateworldcruise #royalcaribbean #serenadeoftheseas #royalcaribbeancruise #royalcaribbeaninternationalcruise #worldcruise2023 #cruisetok #worldcruise #royalcaribbeanworldcruise #uwc

♬ Simple Hit – Dombresky

@aa.kenney, a young Florida-based couple, are sharing their experiences courtesy of Andrew’s professional videography skills. The duo’s high-quality content has earned them a following of nearly 60,000.

Meanwhile, @amike_oosthuizen, a South African fashion influencer, provides insights into the cruise’s lifestyle, including food and drinks. Her engaging content has garnered her over 138,000 followers.

@angielinderman

Ultimate World Cruise Q&A or really FAQ since i dont know how to do a Q&A on here. Help! I tried to andwer as many as I could that I know a lot of people have, but let me kniw what else you want to know about what its like on @Royal Caribbean’s Ultiamte World Cruise. #RoyalCaribbean #crusing #explore #solotravler #worldCruise #UltimateWorldCruise #UWC #SerenadeOfTheSeas #cruise #travel #solofemaletraveler #cruiseship #cruisetok

♬ original sound – Angie

For those interested in how passengers are able to manage a 9-month cruise, which starts at $59,999 per person for an interior stateroom, not including starting taxes, fees, and port expenses of $4,667, @angielinderman, from Portland, Oregon, shares her personal journey, including how she funded her trip. Her transparency has resonated with many, earning her a following that is closing in on 110,000. 

Serenade of the Seas, which is registered in the Bahamas, weighs 90,090 tons and accommodates 2,143 passengers at double occupancy across 13 decks. It carries 832 international crew members. Search “Ultimate World Cruise” on TikTok to find more content.

Newest Carnival Ship Arrives at US Homeport

Melissa Mayntz
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Newest Carnival Ship Arrives at US Homeport

Carnival Jubilee has officially docked in the US for the very first time as the brand new ship arrived at her Galveston, Texas homeport at approximately 8 a.m. on Wednesday, December 20, 2023.

A Texas-sized welcome greeted the new vessel with hundreds of Carnival cruise fans lining the docks a welcome party thrown by Port of Galveston to officially greet the new ship with style and hospitality.

Welcome Home, Carnival Jubilee!

Carnival Jubilee has officially arrived in Galveston, Texas on Wednesday morning, December 23. The ship’s arrival has been greatly anticipated by cruise fans and port officials, as it marks a new era of fantastic cruising from the Lone Star State.

“What a special day it is for Galveston, Texas,” said John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador.

Carnival Jubilee Arriving in Galveston
Carnival Jubilee Arriving in Galveston

The ship’s journey from Bremerhaven, Germany has been followed closely by fans ever since the ship was delivered to Carnival Cruise Line on December 4, 2023, as she has made her way across the Atlantic Ocean for the first time en route to Galveston.

“I’m proud of all the work our team and our partners at Meyer Werft have done in collaboration to bring Carnival Jubilee to life,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, when the ship was delivered. “Now, we start sailing her home so we can deliver her to our guests just in time for the Christmas holiday.”

The ship stopped first in Tenerife in the Canary Islands and then in Nassau in the Bahamas to take on additional supplies and crew members in preparation for her first passenger sailing on December 23, 2023.

Fans Welcome Carnival Jubilee to Galveston
Fans Welcome Carnival Jubilee to Galveston (Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line)

The 183,521-gross-ton, Excel-class ship arrived in Galveston Bay under a tugboat water salute escort and an airplane overhead with a welcome banner, with crowds lining the adjacent docks cheering the ship’s arrival. Many revelers brought signs to welcome the ship, adorned with greetings, hearts, the Texas state flag, and Carnival’s iconic whale tail funnel.

Crew members lined the decks as the ship made her way to the pier, many of them holding signs saying “Howdy Galveston” and similar sentiments. Even Santa Claus was spotted on the deck, ready for the ship’s first sailing, a very celebratory Christmas cruise.

Carnival Jubilee Arriving in Galveston
Carnival Jubilee Arriving in Galveston

Carnival Jubilee docked at Cruise Terminal 25 just after 8 a.m., officially taking her place as the first-ever new-build ship to be homeported from Galveston, and cementing Carnival Cruise Line’s commitment to Texas cruising with the Texas Lone Star dramatically displayed on her bow.

“The Texas star on her bow isn’t just decoration, it’s a symbol of our gratitude to our  guests sailing from Texas who’ve made us the number one cruise line in Galveston, and our commitment to the future of cruising from this great city and state,” said Duffy. “When we cut the ribbon to welcome our first guests on this ship this weekend, we’ll be celebrating the beginning of a new era of operations here.”

Setting Sail With Carnival Jubilee

The new ship will be offering 7-night Western Caribbean cruises, visiting Roatan, Honduras as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico. The port order may occasionally vary depending on the ship’s sailing date.

Carnival Jubilee is permanently homeported in Texas at least through April 2026. Carnival Cruise Line has not yet announced itineraries past that date.

Carnival Jubilee Sea Trials
Carnival Jubilee Sea Trials (Photo Courtesy: Meyer Werft)

Onboard, guests will not only enjoy all sorts of Carnival favorites – Guy’s Burger Joint, the Punchliner Comedy Club, the adults-only Serenity area, BlueIguana Cantina, the WaterWorks aqua park and much more – but also features exclusive to the Excel-class ships, such as the BOLT rollercoaster and the expansive central atrium where unique and dynamic shows amaze guests.

Carnival Jubilee also features new and unique venues found nowhere else in the Carnival fleet, including the immersive, ocean-themed Currents and Shores zones. Dr. Inks, Ph.D is a new, quirky bar that will offer themed drinks, while The Golden Mermaid will tantalize guests with secret cocktail recipes inspired by mermaid adventures.

Guests will also get to enjoy an exclusive onboard “Lone Star Tailgate” party with entertainment, games, dancing, and more, as well as a brand-new, wedding-themed production show, “Dear Future Husband” that also includes an interactive party element for guests to join in. Of course, the ship’s first two sailings are holiday cruises and will also include all types of seasonal fun and special guests.

Santa and Mrs. Claus on Carnival Jubilee
Santa and Mrs. Claus on Carnival Jubilee (Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line)

Sister ship to Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee can welcome 5,374 guests when booked at double occupancy, or as many as 6,631 passengers when fully booked with all berths filled. Also onboard are 1,735 international officers and crew members, all of whom are now a little bit Texan.

Changes May Be Coming to a Popular Cruise Line Private Island

Melissa Mayntz
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Changes May Be Coming to a Popular Cruise Line Private Island

Norwegian Cruise Line recently sent out a survey to a select group of past passengers with questions that may indicate changes coming to the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, or their private island in Belize, Harvest Caye.

The survey included options for both land and water activities, some of which are already offered and many of which would be new attractions visitors could greatly enjoy.

Norwegian Cruise Line Asking Guests About Private Islands

A recent survey sent to members of Norwegian Cruise Line’s “NCL Inner Circle” asked intriguing questions about what could be additions to the cruise line’s private island facilities, from activities to events to excursions.

“Which of the following activities would you be most interested in visiting/participating in on a private island owned by a cruise line?” the survey asked.

The questions included a list of more than 35 choices of land and water activities as well as events. Among the selections were new and interesting options not yet found on any cruise line private island, such as a Ferris wheel, casino, dune-buggy racing, go-kart track, and bumper cars.

Also on the list were some items very common on all private islands, including luxury villas, snorkeling, and swimming/lounging by the ocean.

Great Stirrup Cay Private Island
Great Stirrup Cay Private Island (Photo Credit: Just dance)

Other choices included horseback riding, shopping, a wildlife sanctuary, beach bikes, kayaking, swim-up bars, and a waterpark, as well as “swim” experiences with dolphins, stingrays, pigs, or sharks. Some cruise line private islands already include these features, while others do not.

Four events were listed in the survey: a fireworks show, an adults-only pool party, parades, and a more generic “shows” without further details about the type of show. Some cruise lines do offer live music, character appearances, or other entertainment on private islands, though this could mean more extensive shows such as local dance or music performances, speedboat shows, or other unique options.

Which Island?

The survey did not clarify whether or not Norwegian Cruise Line was seeking feedback for Great Stirrup Cay, its private island in the Bahamas, or for Harvest Caye, the private island the cruise line owns in Belize. Both destinations are popular with cruise guests, and it is conceivable that upgrades or enhancements may be coming to either island, or even both.

Norwegian Cruise Line could also be investigating options to develop another private destination in a different location to give cruise passengers an entirely new port of call to explore.

Several cruise lines are currently developing brand new destinations, such as Carnival Cruise Line’s upcoming Celebration Key near Freeport in the Bahamas, which is scheduled to open in July 2025. While Celebration Key is not a complete private island – it is on Grand Bahama Island – it will be an exclusive destination just for Carnival Cruise Line.

Harvest Caye, Belize
Harvest Caye, Belize (Photo Credit: Christina Calvo)

Disney Cruise Line is also developing a new Bahamas destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, which is being built on Eleuthera, a lengthy island already popular for resorts and tourist visits. Disney Cruise Line’s new location will be an exclusive, private area for cruise guests. Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is scheduled to open in July 2024.

Royal Caribbean International is also developing a new private destination in the Bahamas, the Royal Beach Club that will be a 17-acre resort on Paradise Island, making it convenient for ships visiting Nassau. Few details have been revealed yet about the destination, which is planned to open in 2025.

Royal Caribbean is also enhancing its already wildly popular Perfect Day at CocoCay with the new adults-only area, Hideaway Beach, opening in January 2024.

Surveys as a Development Tool

It should be noted that Norwegian Cruise Line has not announced any official plans for changes or additions to its private island destinations. It is not unusual for cruise lines to use surveys to gauge interest in new marketing ideas or to judge feedback on existing options.

Often, such surveys may come to nothing if the feedback does not show a clear option for the cruise line to pursue, or if further investigation shows a lack of feasibility for an idea.

Even if an idea does receive overwhelming support from respondents, it may be years before new plans come to fruition as a new offering for cruise travelers to enjoy.

What fun, new activity or feature would you like to see on a cruise line private island? Share your ideas on the Cruise Hive boards!

Another Destination Begins Tax on Cruise Passengers

Melissa Mayntz
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Another Destination Begins Tax on Cruise Passengers

Cruise guests visiting Lisbon, Portugal will soon be required to pay a new tourist tax, with the fee beginning in January 2024. While details of the payment procedure are still being finalized, this tax is the latest in extra fees more and more ports are imposing on cruise travelers as part of efforts to either curb visits or raise funds to support local infrastructure.

Lisbon to Begin Cruise Passenger Tax

Port of Lisbon is poised to begin charging cruise visitors a €2 (approximately $2.20 USD) per person tourist tax beginning in January 2024. The exact date for tax collection to begin has not been announced, as payment details are still being finalized.

Cruise ship operators will likely be the collected fees for passengers via the Janela Única Logística platform, a digital port logistics network. Individual guests will not need to pay the fee when debarking in Lisbon, but instead the extra charge will most likely be connected as part of the cruise fare, and the cruise line will pay the fee upon arrival in Lisbon.

This is similar to the process used to collect “port taxes and fees” for many cruise ports around the world. Lisbon City Council officials are still working out the payment procedure, but do expect that the new tax will raise approximately €1.2 million ($1.32 million USD) annually.

How the funds will be used has not been disclosed. Many port communities use taxes and fees from cruise visits to help fun port projects, such as regular maintenance, upgrades, or new construction, as well as to revitalize local areas that may appeal to cruise passengers to help create an even greater economic boom.

Cruise Ships in Lisbon
Cruise Ships in Lisbon (Photo Credit: AlexeMarcel)

The Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, has made vague threats against cruise operations if the lines refuse to pay the upcoming fees.

“I will make entry somewhat difficult. I can hinder the mobility of buses (at the port), and I will do so if they don’t pay,” he said.

Restrictions such as limiting port docking hours, limiting how tour buses can access the port, or otherwise impeding movements could make it difficult for ships to plan visits to Lisbon, or cause challenges with offer shore excursion opportunities for guests to enjoy. If this becomes too difficult, cruise lines may simply drop Lisbon as a port of call.

Cruising to Lisbon

Lisbon is a popular destination for both western Mediterranean and northern European cruise itineraries, as well as a common stopover for Canary Island voyages, depending on the voyage’s point of origin. Many transatlantic cruises also include a port visit to Lisbon.

In January 2024 – one of the slower months of the year for the cruise port – ten ship visits are scheduled, including vessels from P&O Cruises, Cunard Line, TUI Cruises, and MSC Cruises, as well as other lines.

Lisbon Cruise port
Lisbon Cruise Port

The spring, summer, and autumn months are the busiest for Lisbon and include calls from both large and small lines, including Disney Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, and more.

More Ports Imposing Fees

Cruise travelers are accustomed to port fees and taxes, which can often add up to $100 (USD) or more per passenger on each sailing, depending on the length of the itinerary, the number of ports visited, and what fees are charged. Different destinations may use different fee structures depending on the size of a cruise ship, how long it will be in port, and how busy the docking schedule may be.

As more ports add these fees, however, the costs are quickly adding up and may become insurmountable for budget-conscious travelers, particularly families and groups.

Just recently, the Mexican state of Quintana Roo – home to the popular destinations of Costa Maya and Cozumel – Proposed adding a $5 per person cruise traveler tax beginning in January 2025.

Meanwhile, authorities in Scotland are also pushing for new taxes on cruise ships, though details have not yet been determined.

Elsewhere in Europe, Amsterdam is hiking tax rates on cruise tourists and will soon have some of the highest of such fees anywhere in the European Union, including higher than those proposed for Lisbon, Portugal.

Will ever-increasing cruise fees make you reconsider your cruise plans or destinations? Share your thoughts on the Cruise Hive boards!

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