Two Carnival-owned cruise lines, P&O Cruises and Cunard Line, may be considering firing then rehiring more than 900 UK-based crew due to renegotiations of contract terms, including salary cuts.
The two parties, the union employees and the employment firm managing the contracts, seem at odds with what to call the situation, and the end result seems unclear. However, P&O Cruises and Cunard Line have denied any redundancies.
P&O Cruises and Cunard Line May Fire Hundreds
P&O Cruises and Cunard Line, both of which work through a Bermuda-based management company for employee contracts, may be firing as many as 919 maritime professionals in the next few weeks, including a number of ship officers, as union negotiations fail to reach a compromise.
“We continue to urge Carnival UK to withdraw their threat of fire and rehire and engage in meaningful negotiations,”Garry Elliot, Senior National Organiser for Nautilus International, said.
“We also call on the UK government to learn the lessons from P&O Ferries and outlaw the coercive practice of fire and rehire. Employers cannot be allowed to treat their employees with contempt and force through fundamental changes to terms and conditions by playing with their employees’ livelihoods.”
P&O Ferries, which used a similar strategy in 2022, is not affiliated with P&O Cruises or Carnival UK. Carnival UK has denied this tactic, claiming it is “not making any redundancies.”
P&O Cruises and Cunard Line stated: “There have been media reports today which are factually inaccurate and damaging. We are categorically not making any redundancies and we will not dismiss and re-engage staff. In fact we have significantly increased our headcount across our fleet.“
There have been media reports today which are factually inaccurate and damaging. We are categorically not making any redundancies and we will not dismiss and re-engage staff. In fact we have significantly increased our headcount across our fleet.
In the workplace, a redundancy is a reasoning for firing an employee that has nothing to do with that employee’s performance. For example, if a poor economy forces a company to downsize, the eliminated positions would be considered redundancies.
The difficulty here is that the employees’ performance is not in question, but rather the terms of the contract renegotiations, which may include reduced salaries and a change in work contract lengths. If new terms for existing contracts cannot be reached, it may be possible that employees would be fired so they could then be rehired under new contracts with the new terms.
Carnival Corporation UK Office (Photo Credit: P.Cartwright / Shutterstock)
“We are categorically not making any redundancies and we will not dismiss and re-engage staff,”Carnival UK stated.“This is an annual pay review process with our maritime officers onboard our ships which will ensure alignment. This will empower our staff, deliver the right teams across our fleet and attract and retain talent to work on our ships.”
Potentially impacted staff are on both P&O Cruises ships as well as Cunard Line ships, though the exact numbers and positions of crew members within each fleet who could be affected by these tactics have not been disclosed.
Would Cruises Be Affected?
It is possible that if these contract negotiations cannot be resolved, the cruise lines might be left struggling to fill positions, which could impact some cruise operations.
Because multiple vessels across both lines may be affected by such staffing changes, it is unlikely that any one ship would have the bulk of the impacted employees on its crew manifest.
Photo Credit: Peter Titmuss / Shutterstock
Even if one ship were more dramatically impacted, new crew members could be quickly hired to fill in gaps, or crew members could be shifted from other vessels to help balance staffing while the situation is resolved.
Cruise passengers are unlikely to see any day-to-day changes in their oceangoing vacations, though there may be fewer officers present for onboard events such as gala parties, cocktail meet-and-greets or other activities, or their favorite ship’s officers may be rotating to different vessels to fulfill the most critical positions.
Royal Caribbean International’s Ovation of the Seas had an unexpected passenger aboard a late October sailing, one that required immediate quarantining. Much to the surprise of the ship’s crew and local biohazard officers, a cat was discovered onboard.
Cat Discovered on Cruise Ship
A pet cat was found aboard the 168,666-gross-ton, Quantum-class Ovation of the Seas on a recent cruise while the ship was sailing a one-way voyage from Honolulu, Hawaii to Sydney, Australia. The 19-night cruise departed Hawaii on Sunday, October 15, 2023.
According to The Post, the cat was discovered in a guest’s cabin, though the guest has not been identified, nor have there been any details released of just how the furry traveler was smuggled aboard through security checks. The cat is believed to have originated from Arizona.
New Zealand biosecurity agents in Wellington, where Ovation of the Seas had diverted when foul weather meant the ship could not visit Auckland as planned at the end of October, found the cat during an otherwise routine inspection of the ship.
These inspections are always carried out when ships enter from foreign destinations to ensure that no invasive or dangerous animals, insects, plants, or other possible environmental hazards could be introduced.
Photo Credit: Venturelli Luca / Shutterstock
The cat was “bonded” to the vessel’s captain, meaning the captain is officially caring for the animal and ensuring it did not leave the ship without authorization. While it remained on the vessel, the cat was kept in a secure area of the ship and was checked by biosecurity inspectors.
Once Ovation of the Seas reached Lyttelton on November 18, the cat was taken into quarantine to ensure it is healthy and not carrying any pests or diseases that could be devastating to local animal populations.
The passengers who brought the cat onboard are not being prosecuted for violating live animal import regulations.
What Will Happen to the Cat?
Royal Caribbean International has taken responsibility for the cat’s expenses, and will pay for transporting the cat back to the US once the quarantine period is complete and the cat is cleared for travel.
Most likely, the cat will be returned to its owners, who have undoubtedly learned a great deal about why pets are not permitted on cruise ships.
Could the Cat Be a Service Animal?
Service dogs are welcome aboard all Royal Caribbean ships, but pets are never permitted.
According to the cruise line’s Service Animals webpage, “A service dog is defined as ‘any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability.’ Service dogs are not considered pets.”
It must be clear that an “emotional support animal” is not legally defined as a service animal, which must be task-trained beyond simply providing comfort. Emotional support animals are still considered pets.
Cat on the Deck (Photo Credit: garageofh)
When guests travel with a service dog, they are responsible for meeting all requirements of any destination where they may debark with their animal, whether at ports of call or if on a one-way repositioning cruise. This may include meeting specific vaccination requirements and providing appropriate permits to travel with the animal.
While cats can be trained as service animals, it is very unusual to do so as most cats do not have the temperament to reliably perform disability-related tasks. Cats can make excellent emotional support animals, but they are not classified as service animals with that designation.
There is no indication that the cat aboard Ovation of the Seas was considered any type of service animal, therapy animal, or emotional support animal.
One famous animal – also a cat – does have authorization to sail. That is Bug Naked, the pet Sphynx cat of Captain Kate McCue of Celebrity Beyond. Her pet cat (a very special exception to onboard animal policies) has been fully vetted and immunized for international travels and is kept under strict watch at all times, including when strolling about the ship in a special pet stroller.
Whether you are planning your first cruise vacation or are a seasoned traveler, you might wonder about safety standards and what would happen if your cruise ship were involved in an accident. Today, we are going to answer some of those questions by taking a look at some recent and famous cruise ship accidents.
While these incidents can be unsettling, they have also significantly improved cruise ship safety standards. By discussing these famous cruise ship accidents, we can explain why they occurred and what valuable lessons were learned from them.
While discussing these incidents, we will also cover some safety systems that cruise lines adopted to keep passengers and crew safe. Remember, there is not a single form of transportation that is entirely accident-free. By discussing cruise ship accidents of the past, you can begin to understand how much of an anomaly they are and how much effort cruise lines put into learning from these incidents so they never occur again!
While they are not the only cruise ship accidents, the following four incidents all had a significant impact on the cruise industry and its safety standards:
1. The Costa Concordia Accident – January 13, 2012
The Costa Concordia incident remains one of the most well-known cruise ship accidents in recent history. In early 2012, a Carnival Cruise Corporation-owned ship called the Costa Concordia accidentally rammed a large rock off the coast of Isola del Giglio, Italy.
This impact caused the ship to capsize partially due to a breach in the hull. Sadly, this cruise ship accident resulted in the loss of 32 lives. Due to the tragic nature of the incident and the fact that it was so preventable, the capsizing of the Costa Concordia received global media coverage.
Why Did It Happen?
A unique feature of the Costa Concordia incident was that responsibility was directed squarely at the ship’s captain, Francesco Schettino. While human error is not uncommon in maritime incidents, Captain Schettino was found guilty of multiple counts of manslaughter and charges for causing a maritime disaster and abandoning a ship. The result was a 16-year prison sentence handed down by Italian authorities.
Costa Concordia Accident (Photo Credit: COLASIMO)
Rather than following the planned route and itinerary, Captain Schettino chose to perform a “sail-by salute” maneuver, an attempt to bring the cruise ship unnecessarily close to shore. In doing so, the boat collided with sharp rocks that were known to be in the area. The result was the partial capsizing of the ship on its starboard side and the tragic loss of 32 passengers.
What Lessons Were Learned?
Due to the publicity, the Costa Concordia incident significantly impacted the cruise industry’s reputation. Changes needed to occur. The accident happened due to a combination of individual incompetence, a lack of communication, and a failure to adhere to mandatory safety protocols.
In the aftermath, cruise lines began emphasizing the importance of accountability for ship captains and other high-ranking crew members. Training programs focusing on emergency evacuations became standard, as did enhanced muster and safety drills for all cruise passengers before departure.
Costa Concordia Accident (Photo Credit: Niccolo’ Simoncini)
Automated systems to ensure that the ship’s crew cannot make unsafe navigational errors are now embedded in most cruise ships. Communication systems and protocols to ensure clear coordination between all navigation personnel and local authorities are also stronger than before the Costa Concordia capsized.
2. The Carnival Triumph Incident – February 10, 2013
In early 2013, a cruise ship named the Carnival Triumph was involved in a different type of incident. The ship’s engine room caught fire in the Gulf of Mexico early in the morning. Fortunately, the incident did not result in passengers or crew members losing their lives, but over 4,000 passengers were stranded for several days.
Why Did It Happen?
According to investigative reports after the incident, the fire resulted from a fuel oil leak—one of the fuel lines in the engine room ruptured and ignited. While the crew could extinguish the blaze, the entire ship was left without power. Passengers could not use toilets and showers, while air conditioning systems and other electronics were disabled.
Due to the loss of power, even the Carnival cruise ship’s refrigerators were compromised, which meant food had to be rationed. Naturally, this incident led to a significant amount of discomfort and distress for all passengers stranded on the ship.
What Lessons Were Learned?
Given how much of an ordeal the fire was, both in terms of its aftermath and its impact on the reputation of Carnival Cruise Line and its parent company, Carnival Corporation, the response was almost immediate. Most cruise lines have implemented stricter fire safety measures, especially in engine rooms. Automated fire suppression systems are now standard, as are far more detailed fire safety training sessions for all engine room personnel.
Coast Guard Supplies Stranded Carnival Triumph (Photo Credit: United States Coast Guard)
Most cruise ships also have more sophisticated backup power systems to ensure that toilets, climate control systems, refrigerators, and lights remain functional, even if the boat loses its primary power supply.
3. The Royal Caribbean Grandeur of the Seas Accident – May 27, 2013
Grandeur of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, was also involved in a fire-related accident in 2013. While traveling near CocoCay, Bahamas, a fire broke out near the ship’s engine room. While no one reported an injury, alarms were sounded, and passengers were summoned to their respective muster stations.
Even though the fire was extinguished surprisingly quickly, the cautious reaction was mainly because there was a risk that the fire could spread to flammable substances.
Why Did It Happen?
Like the incident on the Carnival Triumph, the fire was caused by a fuel oil supply line leak. The fire caused significant damage to the ship’s aft area. Since the fire occurred at 2:50 AM, passengers were surprised by the alarms.
Grandeur of the Seas Fire (Photo Credit: MrMojoX)
Even though the crew and onboard fire suppression systems could extinguish the fire relatively fast, it still disrupted the ship’s planned itinerary. The ship had to return to the closest port of call, and passengers were returned by plane to the initial port of embarkation. These passengers received a full refund and other forms of compensation, but the cruise vacation was ruined.
While it was believed that the situation was entirely under control, the ship’s captain decided to cancel the cruise to prioritize precaution and passenger safety.
What Lessons Were Learned?
Given that it was the second high-profile cruise ship incident involving a fuel line fire, the Grandeur of the Seas accident introduced even more enhanced maintenance and inspection protocols for all fuel systems.
Royal Caribbean also introduced more advanced emergency response training programs for all cruise ship employees, which included fire suppression techniques and evacuation-oriented muster drill protocols.
Most cruise lines also conducted detailed inspections of their fire suppression systems and communication systems.
4. The Viking Sky Incident – March 23, 2019
The Viking Sky, a Viking Ocean Cruises vessel, underwent severe engine problems in March 2019. The event occurred off the coast of Norway and was made much more powerful due to extreme weather issues.
Fortunately, it did not result in any deaths, but it was a close call that involved numerous injuries to passengers and cruise ship employees.
Photo Credit: @sotiridi
(Twitter)
The violent movements of the ship made it difficult for passengers to maintain their balance while furniture and fixtures crashed to the floor. The result was a high-risk evacuation that involved airlifting passengers and flying them back to safety.
Why Did It Happen?
While traveling through stormy and violent waters, the Viking Sky lost power to its propulsion system. This meant the ship could not maintain its course due to bad weather. While an engine failure is rare, it is rarely a dangerous issue. However, given that the ship was traveling close to the rocky shoreline of southern Norway, it became incredibly dangerous.
What Lessons Were Learned?
While engine tests were commonplace before this accident, most cruise lines implemented more rigorous maintenance and inspection protocols for critical propulsion systems in the aftermath.
Many cruise lines, especially Viking Ocean Cruises, also introduced weather preparedness protocols, which involved altering routes to avoid shorelines in the buildup to severe weather events.
How Common Are Serious Cruise Ship Accidents?
When discussing the frequency of cruise ship accidents, it is essential to remember just how many cruises occur each year. The truth is that relatively few cruises involve any serious emergency or accident.
When a serious cruise ship accident does occur, like the Costa Concordia disaster, these events receive global media coverage. This is evidence of just how infrequent they are in relation to the number of cruises that take place each year.
In most cases, cruise ship accidents tend to be relatively small in scale. These minor incidents involve individual passengers, like slips and falls or small-scale kitchen fires that are quickly extinguished. These incidents are quickly dealt with, given how small they are and how prepared crew members are.
Photo Credit: Toni Arsovski / Shutterstock
Even onboard medical emergencies are dealt with quickly and efficiently, as almost every modern cruise ship will have its own medical facilities and certified doctors on board the vessel that can handle incidents. The COVID-19 pandemic also resulted in even stricter health and safety protocols, so cruise ships are more sanitary and health-conscious than ever.
For the most part, even weather-related incidents are rare, as cruise ships have sophisticated weather detection systems that they can use to alter routes and avoid storms. Even the ships are designed for maximum stability, so passengers rarely experience weather-related discomfort.
Millions of people enjoy cruise vacations every year; only a tiny fraction of those people ever encounter any incident. With that said, you should always pay attention to crew members during safety demonstrations and muster drills. While the cruise line will always prioritize your safety and enjoyment, you still have a role in ensuring your vacation is safe and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will you be compensated if your cruise ship is involved in an accident?
While compensation policies will vary from one cruise line to the next, passengers are almost always entitled to some form of compensation in the rare event that the cruise ship they are traveling on is involved in an accident.
Again, compensation will also vary depending on the nature and severity of the incident. If the accident involves a major disruption of the voyage, there is a good chance that you will be entitled to a full or partial refund. Remember, these incidents are rare, so there is a minimal chance you will have to worry about it.
Are cruise ships prepared to deal with accidents?
Yes, all cruise ships must adhere to strict maritime safety regulations that prioritize the safety of all cruise passengers and crew members. This includes mandatory muster drills, adequate numbers of lifeboats, and various other safety requirements.
Even older cruise ships must adhere to modern safety standards and regulations, which can mean they must undergo serious upgrades and refurbishments before they can continue to carry passengers.
These safety standards are strictly regulated, so you can rest assured that the cruise ship you are traveling on is designed to respect your safety and well-being.
Do cruise ships ever collide with other ships?
Collisions involving cruise ships are extremely rare. This is partially because modern cruise ships use advanced navigation technology and sonar systems to avoid any obstacles. In the rare chances that a collision occurs, either with another vessel or natural obstacle, the result is almost always human error, like the Costa Concordia accident.
New technologies and stricter safety protocols are introduced yearly to minimize the risk of collisions and groundings further. In other words, cruise ships are safer than ever.
Final Words
While the cruise industry is not perfect and has faced challenges in the past, significant accidents are remarkably rare. Even when these incidents have occurred, they have resulted in valuable lessons that have informed safety innovations and improved safety standards.
Not only do cruise ships have to adhere to strict international and local safety regulations, but cruise lines themselves vigorously test their ships to protect every cruise ship passenger and preserve their reputations.
Today, cruise ships are considered to be an extremely safe form of travel. Thanks to lessons learned from past incidents, you can now safely and confidently enjoy a cruise vacation with the peace of mind that comes from knowing those who design and operate the ships always have your safety as their main priority.
Celestyal Cruises has announced that Celestyal Olympia, a former Royal Caribbean cruise ship, will be retired at the end of 2023, with a new vessel to take her place with planned sailings. Celestyal Olympia has been welcoming guests for more than 40 years, with a variety of cruise lines.
Celestyal Olympia to Retire
Celestyal Olympia, which as been sailing with Celestyal Cruises since 2014, is to be gracefully retired in the coming weeks. This decision comes as Celestyal Cruises has acquired AIDAaura, the oldest ship in the AIDA Cruises fleet (built in 2003), but still significantly younger than the cruise line’s other ship, Celestyal Journey (built in 1994 for Holland America Line).
To accommodate AIDAaura, which will join Celestyal Cruises as Celestyal Discovery in 2024 after an extensive refurbishment, Celestyal Olympia is to be decommissioned and retired from the line.
Celestyal Olympia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: CeeGee)
Celestyal Discovery is planned to take over Celestyal Olympia‘s sailings from March 2024, and guests already booked on those journeys will be contacted with details about switching to the new vessel. Earlier sailings aboard Celestyal Olympia, from December 2, 2023 to the end of the year, are cancelled and guests are receiving full refunds.
The impacted sailings are 3-, 4-, and 5-night Greek Island cruises, as Celestyal Cruises primarily operates Greek sailings of various lengths, offering luxury and intimacy for guests exploring the Mediterranean hotspot.
History of Celestyal Olympia
Celestyal Olympia began as Royal Caribbean’s Song of America when she debuted in December 1982 as the fourth ever ship for the line, and she remained with Royal Caribbean until 1999. Of special note is that this ship was the first to feature the distinctive Viking Crown Lounge that would be an instantly recognizable feature of Royal Caribbean ships for decades.
In late 1998, the ship was sold to Sun Cruises (though she would be chartered back to Royal Caribbean for several months) and renamed Sunbird, with some rebuilding of her interior spaces, particularly suites. In 2005, the ship was again sold as Sun Cruises was dissolved. After being renamed Thomson Destiny, the ship sailed for Thomson Cruises until 2012.
Song of America, Former Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship
The ship spent two years with Louis Cruises (2012-2014) as Louis Olympia, and also served as a floating hotel during the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
In late 2014, Louis Cruises was rebranded to Celestyal Cruises, and the ship was renamed and updated to become Celestyal Olympia.
The 37,700-gross-ton ship can welcome 1,664 passengers aboard for each sailing, with approximately 540 international crew members onboard to provide distinctive and memorable service.
What Is Next for the Cruise Ship?
Celestyal Cruises has confirmed that the ship will now be scrapped, which is not surprising considering her advanced age in comparison to more modern ships.
Still, her 41 years of service have been memorable ones for the thousands and thousands of passengers she has already hosted in sailings in the Caribbean, Bermuda, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, always bringing travelers to amazing ports of call and delivering memorable cruise vacations.
Because of her age and how environmental and safety regulations have changed in recent years, it could be challenging to sufficiently update the ship to welcome guests with the same standards that newer ships may offer. It is unlikely that any buyer would be willing to undertake such a project in the current economic climate.
Frank Del Rio, the former CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, has listed his Vero Beach, Florida, mansion for $15.9 million, following his retirement in June.
Known for his extensive career in the cruise industry, Del Rio has decided to embark on a new journey, embracing the life of a cruise guest after years at the helm of one of the world’s leading cruise companies.
Del Rio’s Nautical Mansion Hits the Market
The mansion of former Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings CEO Frank Del Rio has been put up for sale so that Del Rio can spend more time with family onboard cruise ships.
Frank Del Rio’s oceanfront property, spanning approximately 5,648 square feet, stands out with its unique design, reminiscent of the ships he once oversaw, featuring design elements similar to the Norwegian Cruise Line ships. The property has seven bedrooms, eight full bathrooms, and 0.64 acres outside.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Frank Del Rio Property (Photo Credit: Sotheby’s International Realty)
The luxury property listing says: “Along the coastline of Vero Beach, this masterpiece of modern luxury has undergone a complete transformation. 7 bedrooms and 8.5 baths, inclusive of the guest wing with private entry and laundry. Gorgeous wood floors throughout, custom built-ins from Italy and a Snaidero luxury kitchen featuring crystal quartz counters and luxe appliances.
The property was bought for $2.46 million in 2015 and later renovated for an additional $3.5 million, excluding over a million dollars worth of furniture and artwork. The home showcases custom Italian built-ins, wood flooring, and a surround-sound system. It was built in 1997.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Frank Del Rio Property (Photo Credit: Sotheby’s International Realty)
“Expansive oceanfront loggia and new patio with saltwater pool, sundeck, summer kitchen, full cabana bath and maintenance free Trex beach walkway. State-of-the-art Savant home automation with whole-house surround sound, Lutron lighting control, wireless networking and security,” the listing continues.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Frank Del Rio Property (Photo Credit: Sotheby’s International Realty)
Del Rio’s decision to sell his mansion aligns with his desire to spend more time on cruises with his family. His first post-retirement voyage is a 20-day Antarctica sailing aboard the 1,250-guest Oceania Marina, a significant change for Del Rio, who founded Oceania in 2002.
Embracing a Life at Sea
Starting his professional career at Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Company, which later became part of KPMG, he transitioned into the hospitality sector with Certified Vacations and Renaissance Cruises.
After Renaissance’s bankruptcy post-9/11, Del Rio co-founded Oceania Cruises, a venture that demanded substantial personal investment but eventually flourished. This later merged into Prestige Cruise Holdings, the parent company of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Photo Courtesy: Norwegian Cruise Line
As CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Del Rio led the company following the merger of Prestige Cruise Holdings with Norwegian. His leadership saw the company’s stock price soar and later navigated Norwegian through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is the third biggest cruise operator in the world, behind Royal Caribbean Group and Carnival Corporation, and the fourth biggest worldwide. Del Rio will have ample ships to choose from when he decides to go cruising in the coming years.
Onboard the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet, Del Rio can choose from six different cruise ships: Seven Seas Navigator, Seven Seas Voyager, Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Splendor, and Seven Seas Grandeur. Oceania Cruises has seven ships in its fleet, including Marina, Riviera, Regatta, Nautica, Insignia, Sirena, Vista, and Allura.
Of course, the biggest cruise line in NCLH is Norwegian Cruise Line, which now has 18 cruise ships. The cruise line recently announced its newest addition, Norwegian Aqua, a ship that Del Rio is sure to be sailing on in the coming years, as he goes from cruise CEO to cruise passenger.
Norwegian Cruise Line has reached out to travel agents and booked guests to notify them that seven months of cruises aboard Norwegian Sun have now been cancelled. This includes cruises from late March through early November 2025.
Norwegian Sun Cruise Cancellations and Refunds
Booked guests have begun to receive notifications that seven months of sailings aboard Norwegian Sun have been cancelled. The email is also being sent to the cruise line’s travel partners so they may contact any of their impacted clients.
“As a result of a fleet redeployment, Norwegian Sun’s sailings from March 28, 2025 through and including November 3, 2025 have been canceled,”the email said.“We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”
Full refunds for all the cancelled sailings – a total of 22 cruises – are being automatically processed back to the original form of payment used when the reservation was made. These refunds will be processed from the cruise line within 30 days, and may take 7-10 days after that time to be processed through individual financial institutions.
If guests used a future cruise credit (FCC) to book their now-cancelled cruises, those FCCs will be reinstated to their loyalty accounts.
Furthermore, all guests will receive a 10% discount FCC for use on a future cruise vacation, valid for any Norwegian Cruise Line published sailing from November 20, 2023 through December 31, 2025.
“We sincerely appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you aboard very soon,”the email concludes.
The 78,309-gross-ton Norwegian Sun can welcome 1,976 guests per sailing when booked at double occupancy, meaning as many as 44,000 guests or more may be impacted by this dramatic cancellation. The actual number of passengers affected is likely to be somewhat lower, however, as the sailings had not yet sold out before being cancelled.
Alternative Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Line is also informing guests that Norwegian Sky – sister ship to Norwegian Sun – will be offering similar itineraries to the now-cancelled cruises during the same March-through-November 2025 window, should travelers wish to rebook a different cruise.
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock
The cancelled cruises aboard Norwegian Sun ranged from 7-16 nights, with most being 9- or 10-night cruises. Both Middle East and Mediterranean itineraries are impacted.
No explanation has been given for such extensive cancellations, other than “fleet redeployment.” This is the same explanation that was offered when months of Alaska cruises were cancelled for Norwegian Spirit, which was being chartered for the impacted window.
Norwegian Cruise Line has an unfortunate history of these types of mass cancellations as ships are moved to different regions or dry dock schedules are shifted. Similar cancellations have previously impacted Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Joy, and other vessels.
Speculation will undoubtedly be rampant that Norwegian Sun may be leaving the cruise line either to be sold to another line or scrapped altogether, but these rumors are as yet unfounded and without official confirmation.
Norwegian Sun Cruise Ship in Jacksonville (Photo Credit: NEFLO PHOTO)
It is true that Norwegian Sun is one of the oldest ships in the line’s fleet, having first set sail in September 2001. By the time of the cancelled sailings, the ship will be more than 23 years old, a decent operational lifespan for any vessel, but not necessarily the end of useful operation altogether.
Smaller, more “seasoned” ships are often preferred for longer itineraries, as they offer an intimacy that larger vessels cannot.
They are also ideal for visits to more remote or unusual ports of call that may not be equipped to accommodate today’s largest ships and the thousands of passengers they can host on every sailing.
Stay tuned to Cruise Hive for more details as the future of Norwegian Sun is revealed.
MSC Cruises has announced a comprehensive development plan for Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Private Island in The Bahamas to enhance the guest experience and contribute to marine conservation.
The investment, valued at $100 million, marks a new chapter for the private island destination, which has been an example of sustainable and environmental stewardship. MSC Cruises transformed the former sand excavation site into a marine reserve and now aims to take that development even further.
Enhancing Guest Experience and Marine Conservation
MSC Cruises and the Bahamian government have signed a new agreement where the cruise line will invest a further $100 million into its private island resort, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.
The development plan, unveiled during a ceremony in Bimini attended by Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis and other key officials, is poised to generate substantial economic benefits for The Bahamas.
This initiative will create numerous construction jobs and long-term employment opportunities on the island, a significant contribution to the local economy.
Prime Minister Philip Davis said to Eyewitness News:“My government has fully embraced the development of our Family Islands. Whether through capital infrastructure projects, partnerships, or in support of private sector investments like this one, we are committed to developing and growing the economy of every island in our archipelago.”
“This project represents the kind of corporate responsibility effort and environmental stewardship we want to see from all major developmental projects moving forward.”
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, a former industrial sand excavation site transformed into a flourishing marine reserve and private island destination, will see a series of enhancements designed to elevate the guest experience.
MSC Cruises Private Island in the Bahamas (Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
New amenities for MSC Cruises’ guests include the introduction of pavilions where guests can undertake watersport activities and island tours. There will also be a diving and snorkel center and additional dining options.
The development also includes new accommodation facilities for the island staff, which is set to increase from 150 to 280 employees. Additionally, MSC Cruises has pledged to support the LJM Maritime Academy and the University of The Bahamas, fostering the training and development of Bahamian seafarers.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
A central component of the expansion is the establishment of the MSC Foundation’s Marine Conservation Centre. This facility will serve as a hub for coral reef research and education under the Super Coral Program, featuring interactive pavilions, a lecture hall, and coral exhibition tanks.
The Super Coral Program on the island represents a critical effort in understanding and fostering coral reef resilience across the tropical Western Atlantic.
MSC Cruises Private Island in the Bahamas (Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises)
The expansion will also include the installation of a third solar farm and an advanced wastewater treatment plant, which will help MSC Cruises achieve its goals for zero greenhouse gas emissions for Ocean Cay.
A comprehensive landscaping plan will further enhance the island’s ecosystem, featuring native and adaptive plant species for erosion control and vegetation improvement.
With the new additions and enhancements, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve will become an even more important example of how tourism can be done sustainably in the Caribbean, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, ecological awareness, and amenities.
Those looking forward to visiting Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve during the winter 2023-24 season will have ample choice. MSC Cruises will deploy five ships in the North American market – MSC Divina, MSC Magnifica, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seascape, and MSC Seashore, all making stops at Ocean Cay.
Carnival Panorama is on her way to the second shipyard for her necessary engine repairs, after having been foiled in her attempt to reach the first shipyard – where those repairs will take place – due to low bridges.
Now, the ship is en route to Victoria, British Columbia, where her “whale tail” funnel will be removed, before she can have her engine repairs completed in Portland, Oregon.
Carnival Panorama Engine Repairs Hit Unusual Snag
The urgently needed engine repairs for Carnival Panorama are proving trickier than expected, but not because the repairs themselves are necessarily complicated. Instead, the ship is having difficulty reaching the shipyard in Portland, Oregon, where those repairs will be completed.
The Portland shipyard ready to service Carnival Panorama lies roughly 95 miles (153 kilometers) up the Columbia River from the coast, a route crossed by low-lying bridges. The 133,500-gross-ton, Vista-class ship has 15 passenger decks, with her iconic whale tail funnel rising high above the tallest deck.
Worth Reading: Cruise Ship Diverted for Urgent Repairs Following Severe Weather
That funnel is too tall to pass underneath the river’s bridges, and must be dismantled before the ship can reach the dry dock facilities. It was initially hoped the funnel could be removed in Astoria, Oregon before the ship began moving up the river, but that has proved impossible.
Now, satellite tracking data shows Carnival Panorama heading for Victoria, British Columbia, where the shipyard facilities are equipped to safely remove the upper part of ship’s funnel so she can then return to Oregon and proceed to the dry dock.
After the engines are repaired, the ship will likely need to move back to Victoria once again for her funnel to be reassembled before she will finally return to Long Beach to welcome guests.
While this is a complicated situation, Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador John Heald has explained that the cruise line did look for alternative shipyards that could service Carnival Panorama, but options at west coast shipyards were limited due to facilities and docking schedules.
“The ship is making a brief stop in Canada and then will head to Astoria,”Heald confirmed about the convoluted arrangements.
Guests Nervous
Guests booked on Christmas and New Year’s sailings of Carnival Panorama are understandably nervous about whether those cruises will be cancelled if the repairs take longer than anticipated.
Both holiday sailings are Mexican Riviera cruises. The Saturday, December 23 departure is the first planned for the ship after repairs are complete, and is a 7-night cruise visiting Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas.
The 8-night New Year’s Cruise will depart on Saturday, December 30 and will call on the same ports as the previous voyage, as well as an extra port of call in La Paz.
Heald has attempted to assuage guests’ concerns and reassure them that the sailings are expected to move ahead as planned.
“We fully expect [the] ship to be back ready to give you all the fun you deserve,”Heald said.“I promise we will keep you updated if anything were to change so please don’t worry, but now we’re saying we can’t wait to see you having fun.”
Cancelled Cruises
When Carnival Panorama first developed these engine difficulties at the beginning of November, the ship’s maximum cruising speed was impacted and the November 4, 2023 sailing had two ports of call cancelled so the ship could return to Long Beach on schedule.
After the difficulties were assessed, four cruises were cancelled so the ship could be removed from service for immediate repairs. As the difficulties with securing dry dock facilities became clear, however, two additional cruises were cancelled to ensure enough time for these technical repairs to be completed and allow the ship to return to service with her maximum propulsion intact.
At the moment, it is hopeful that Carnival Panorama will be full speed ahead for her Christmas and New Year’s cruises, but booked guests should stay in close contact with Carnival Cruise Line for any further notifications, cancellations, or adjustments.
A recent maritime emergency unfolded near Brazil’s Ilha Grande Bay, where an MSC cruise ship played a key role in rescuing six fishermen from a sinking fishing boat.
The incident began when the fishing boat with seven fishermen aboard went missing near Jorge Grego Island, Ilha Grande. On a scheduled deep-sea fishing excursion, the fishermen were due back by Sunday but failed to return, leading to concerns over their safety. A storm in the area had disrupted communication, complicating the situation.
Rescue Operation for MSC Preziosa
On a routine deep-sea fishing trip near Jorge Grego Island, Ilha Grande, a boat with seven fishermen experienced an emergency. The group, which had set out on Saturday morning, November 18, was expected to return by Sunday lunchtime.
However, a storm disrupted the fishermen’s plans, leading to unsuccessful attempts by shoreside authorities to contact them. This triggered a comprehensive search operation involving Fire Department divers, the Port Authority, and various other search and rescue resources such as boats, jet skis, and aircraft.
The SOS call was received by the 137,936 gross tons Fantasia-class cruise ship MSC Preziosa, which had been cruising in the area during a three-night cruise from Sao Paolo to Sao Paolo. Six of the seven fishermen were rescued by MSC Preziosa, and taken onboard.
The rescued fishermen, though distressed, were conscious and alert when transported to nearby Vila do Abraão by the MSC cruise ship. They received immediate medical attention, with one in a weakened state. Tragically, the body of the seventh fisherman was later recovered by firefighters.
MSC Preziosa Cruise Ship in Brazil (Photo Credit: Joa Souza)
Jorge Grego Island, where the incident occurred, is a well-known and popular tourism hotspot. The area around Ilha Grande features often on cruise itineraries in the area.
While the reason behind the incident is likely the storm that had been active in the region over the weekend, the question remains how it could happen that the fishermen were unable to radio for themselves.
Since the accident, the Brazilian Navy stated to the Brazilian newspaper O Dia that it would: “initiate an internal procedure to determine the causes, circumstances, and responsibilities of the incident, as well as to extract lessons to reduce the likelihood of similar future events and to assess whether the bad weather contributed to the incident.”
MSC Preziosa Continues Scheduled Cruises
After bringing the affected fishermen to safety, MSC Preziosa resumed her regular scheduled cruises from Sao Paolo.
The upcoming itineraries include a 3-night South American cruise starting on November 21, with a stop in Camboriu on Brazil’s southern coast. This is followed by a 4-night cruise beginning on November 24, visiting Buzios and Ilhabela.
Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises
The ship will then offer another 3-night cruise starting November 28, featuring destinations like Buzios and a return to the rescue area, Ilha Grande.
MSC Cruises, one of the world’s leading cruise operators, has established a significant presence in Brazil, catering to a growing market of cruise enthusiasts in the region. Besides MSC Preziosa, other MSC cruise ships that operate in the area include MSC Seaview, MSC Armonia, MSC Lirica, MSC Grandiosa, and MSC Musica.
