Parents of a young boy sailing aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Enchantment of the Seas had a tense few minutes on the dock in Salerno, Italy when their son accidentally slipped off the dock and into the water between the pier and the cruise ship.
He was quickly rescued from the water and uninjured, thanks to the fast actions of his father, crew members on the pier, and other guests.
Passenger Falls Into Water From Cruise Ship Pier
While visiting Salerno, Italy on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, an 8-year-old boy accidentally stepped off the cruise ship dock and fell into the water next to the cruise ship. The family – the boy, his parents, and his sister – had just debarked the ship for the day in port when the incident occurred, Corriere Della Sera reports.
The boy had been holding his father’s hand, but slipped loose after struggling for a few moments – as young children will do – and ran toward the edge of the dock, stepping off into the water. His father immediately jumped in as well, while alarmed cries from the mother and other cruise guests alerted nearly security guards.
A rope was thrown to the boy and he clung to it and was able to be pulled safely back onto the dock, wet but without injuries. The boy’s father was also assisted out of the water with a life ring. You can watch a video of the incident below:
During the incident, the mother’s panicked screams can be heard asking where her child is, but they were quickly reunited on the dock. To preserve the family’s privacy at this unsettling time, their names have not been released.
The 82,910-gross-ton, Vision-class Enchantment of the Seas is currently sailing a 7-night Greek Islands cruise, having departed from Rome on Monday, October 2. Salerno was the ship’s first port of call visit on the voyage, and the ship was in port from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. The startling incident did not have any impact on the ship’s schedule.
No other cruise ships were docked in Salerno on Tuesday, though the port is often visited by vessels from Costa Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Holland America Line, Marella Cruises, MSC Cruises, and other lines.
Photo Credit: Tiffany Marie Green / Shutterstock
The current Enchantment of the Seas cruise will also visit Sicily, Santorini, Kusadasi, and Mykonos before debarking in Athens (Piraeus), Greece on Monday, October 9. The ship will remain in the Mediterranean offering visits to Greece, Italy, Montenegro, France, Spain, and other top destinations until mid-November.
On Monday, November 13, Enchantment of the Seas will set sail from Barcelona on a transatlantic cruise to bring her to Tampa, Florida where she will offer a range of Western Caribbean and Bahamas sailings at least through spring 2025.
Safety on the Dock
When cruise ships are docked, bumpers are used to keep the vessel from rubbing against the pier and potentially causing damage to either the ship or the dock. Because of those bumpers, there is a slight gap between the ship and the dock structure.
Yellow or red lines are often painted on the sides of the dock to ensure the edges are easily visible no matter what the conditions, and signage may indicate that everyone is to stay away from the edge. Young children, however, aren’t necessarily alert to these types of warnings and may inadvertently get too close to the edge in their excitement.
It is not typically possible to put permanent barricades along the edge of a dock, as such structures would interfere with docking operations, cargo loading, and other work.
All cruise guests should always stay alert to potential hazards on the dock and gangway, including trip hazards, slippery spots, or uneven surfaces. Rescue equipment is always kept nearby in case of any incidents.
Guests aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas did not get as much time to enjoy the Port Canaveral and Orlando, Florida area as planned on the ship’s current sailing, due to a propulsion issue that has impacted the ship’s speed.
Repairs are already underway, however, but it is possible that additional itineraries may be affected depending on the nature of the needed repairs.
Oasis of the Seas Itinerary Change
Oasis of the Seas was delayed by an hour in reaching Port Canaveral, Florida on the ship’s current 7-night cruise. Guests onboard were notified by announcements made by the ship’s captain, as well as a letter delivered to their staterooms, of the need for the speed adjustment.
“An electrical component in one of our three propulsion pods needs replacing,”the letter explained.“While everything else is functioning at 100%, as a precaution we’ve lowered our speed.”
Because of the slower speed, the ship did not arrive at Port Canaveral until 2 p.m. on Tuesday, October 3, 2023. Originally, the ship was scheduled to arrive at 1 p.m. The ship was still scheduled to depart the port of call at 9 p.m. as initially planned, so guests lost just one hour of port visit time.
Oasis of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Mariusz Lopusiewicz)
Shore tours booked through the cruise line were automatically adjusted to the new port visit time.
At no time were any safety systems, navigation, or onboard operations impacted; only the ship’s cruising speed was adjusted. Repairs were already underway as the ship approached Port Canaveral and spent the day at the Space Coast, and at this time, there have been no further announcements of any itinerary changes.
Oasis of the Seas departed Cape Liberty, New Jersey on Sunday, October 1, 2023 and spend Monday as a day at sea before Tuesday’s visit to Port Canaveral.
Wednesday is scheduled as a day at the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Thursday, the ship will be in port at Nassau.
Two more days at sea will follow, taking Oasis of the Seas back to her homeport in New Jersey. The ship is scheduled to arrive back at Cape Liberty at 6 a.m. on Sunday, October 8.
If the electrical component is successfully replaced, there should be no further itinerary adjustments necessary. If the engine propulsion pod requires additional maintenance, however, it is possible there may be further changes to the itinerary through the week. It is also possible that there may need to be adjustments to the ship’s next sailing, an identical itinerary.
Photo Credit: GERARD BOTTINO / Shutterstock
At this time, no such announcements have been made for future sailings – Oasis of the Seas is offering the same cruise each week for the next three weeks. In late October, the ship will reposition to Miami, Florida to offer 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises until moving to Europe in April 2024 for the summer Mediterranean sailing season.
The 226,838-gross-ton vessel, the first ship in the revolutionary Oasis class, can welcome 5,400 guests at double occupancy, or as many as 6,780 passengers when fully booked with all berths filled.
Other Engine Issues in the Royal Caribbean Fleet
Several Royal Caribbean International ships have been afflicted with engine difficulties in recent weeks.
The Quantum-class Anthem of the Seas recently had to adjust multiple itineraries due to engine maintenance affecting sailing speed, which has resulted in some skipped ports of call. For that ship, the itinerary changes are impacting multiple cruises for the next several months.
For each ship, the type of repair is different and the length of time for the repair depends on the level of work to be completed and whether or not it can be done while the ship is underway, while docked, or if a dry dock is needed.
Hopefully, the repairs to Oasis of the Seas will indeed be minor and quickly completed, so no further sailings need to be changed.
Cruise vacations are one of the best ways to experience adventure, relaxation, and true indulgence. While most cruise lines have plenty of luxurious options for guests, knowing what is included in each cruise vacation package can be a little confusing. One of the most common questions is, “Are cruises all-inclusive?” experiences, meaning all of your food and beverages are included in your ticket price.
Today, we will answer this question by looking at some of the most popular options out there. We will look at all-inclusive cruises to help you discover your options and explain what is covered when you book an all-inclusive cruise holiday.
To help you fully understand your options, we will also shed some light on what you can expect from a non-all-inclusive cruise vacation.
There certainly is an appeal to booking an all-inclusive vacation. Whether it is a beach resort or a multi-destination cruise, not worrying about surprise expenses can make the entire vacation much more enjoyable and extravagant.
When it comes to cruise vacations, all-inclusive packages are available, but only with some cruise lines. The truth is some cruise lines offer comprehensive meal and drink plans, while others only have limited items included in the base cruise fare. Some do not include anything other than your basic accommodations!
If you are looking for a truly all-inclusive experience, you must book through a cruise line that offers a package that covers everything with one upfront fee, including accommodations, meals, beverages, and entry to certain onboard activities and events.
Luxury cruise lines, like Oceania Cruises and Viking Cruises, tend to have everything included. Other lines, like Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, often have added all-inclusive packages you can add to your booking.
On the other hand, if you care little about the all-inclusive experience and simply want to enjoy a cruise voyage where you can pick and choose what you want, plenty of cruise lines can provide this less elaborate type of vacation.
What Should You Expect from an All-Inclusive Cruise Package?
While all-inclusive packages will vary from one cruise line to the next, they typically cover the same basic elements. For the most part, you can expect an all-inclusive cruise package to include the following:
Accommodations
Naturally, any all-inclusive cruise package is going to cover the cost of your cabin. Some will allow you to upgrade from the basic accommodations to more luxurious suites at an additional cost.
Meals and Snacks
One of the best things about booking an all-inclusive cruise is knowing that all your meals are paid for upfront. This means you will have breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even snacks covered beforehand.
While there may be a few dining options, such as more upscale restaurants, you have to pay extra for, you can eat every meal during your voyage without additional fees.
Typically, an all-inclusive package will also cover basic room service items, so you can order food directly to your cabin if you feel like enjoying a more relaxed meal.
Drinks (Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic)
Another major appeal of an all-inclusive cruise is having unlimited access to a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. For those who are big drinkers, this can save you a significant amount of money.
Cruise Line Drink
It is also nice to know that you can enjoy soft drinks, juices, smoothies, specialty coffee drinks, and teas without charging additional money to your account.
Some Onboard Events and Activities
While most all-inclusive packages will include all your meals and drinks, some will also cover access to various activities and events on the ship, including comedy shows, concerts, fitness classes, spas, and access to upgraded recreational facilities, like gyms and pools.
What Should You Expect from a Non-All-Inclusive Cruise Vacation?
Naturally, a basic non-inclusive cruise package tends to be less expensive than one that covers all your food and drink onboard the ship. While this may sound appealing, you must remember that you will pay for these items separately, so the costs can even out.
Typically, these types of cruises involve the following:
Flexibility with Dining Options
Since your fare does not cover your meals, you have more flexibility when choosing where to eat. If the ship offers them, you can still access complimentary dining options, like basic buffets and breakfasts.
Depending on the model the cruise line you are traveling with uses, you might pay for non-included meals in specialty dining areas through a bracelet or your room card. After your voyage has concluded, you will notice that these expenses have been charged to the credit card you tied to your account.
Beverage Fees
With any non-all-inclusive cruise, you will end up paying for all the beverages you order during your voyage. You can still order the same drinks as someone with an all-inclusive package, but you just have to remember that these costs will rack up.
With that said, you may still get access to certain complimentary drinks, but these rarely contain alcohol, except for maybe a welcome beverage when you first board the ship.
Photo Credit: xabi_kls / Shutterstock
For those who do not enjoy alcohol or drink very little, a non-all-inclusive package can save you a significant amount of money, as the costs of your alcoholic beverages are not rolled into the cost you paid for your cruise.
Excursions and Activities
Since your package is not an all-inclusive experience, you may have to pay various fees to participate in certain activities and events. With that said, you can enjoy plenty of activities on most cruise ships that are included with a base fare.
This means you have the flexibility to only pay for the entertainment options that appeal to you. You will not feel pressured to attend an event or shore excursion that does not resonate with them because you did not pay for it. Some all-inclusive travelers feel they need to attend everything, as they technically paid for it already by opting for an all-inclusive package.
Which Option Should You Choose?
When choosing between an all-inclusive and a non-all-inclusive cruise, the decision largely comes down to your personal preferences, the availability of options for your chosen destination, and your budget. To help you make the right choice, here are a few advantages and disadvantages of both travel styles.
Pros of Booking an All-Inclusive Cruise
Carnival Liberty Open Decks (Photo Credit: GoBOb / Shutterstock)
Predictability and Convenience
With an all-inclusive experience, you pay more upfront, but you also have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the vast majority of your costs are covered. This helps those that have a specific budget for their trip.
Aside from having cost predictability, you also enjoy a more convenient experience, as you do not have to worry about paying for meals and drinks. Instead, you can simply enjoy everything the trip has to offer in a completely worry-free manner.
Potential Savings, Especially on Alcoholic Beverages
For those who like to indulge in alcoholic beverages while on vacation, an all-inclusive package can result in significant savings compared to paying for each drink individually.
Even meals can be cheaper overall if they are all covered upfront as part of an all-inclusive package. This is particularly true for those who like to sample numerous dishes while they are away on trips. Ordering numerous appetizers and desserts can quickly add up, making a single meal costly.
Given that you are paying for everything upfront, the initial fee for your cruise will almost always be more expensive than a non-all-inclusive experience. For those on a tight budget, this can be a significant drawback to this cruise style.
The Potential to Overindulge
When you know that you have already paid for everything upfront and will not be charged additional fees, there is always the potential for overindulgence. After all, why not order that extra alcoholic drink or sugary dessert if you have technically paid for it already?
Pros of Booking a Non-All-Inclusive Cruise
Flexibility with Your Expenses
When you opt for a non-all-inclusive cruise, you will have a lower upfront cost. This allows you to budget for your vacation exactly how you would like. If you have a limited budget, you can choose the less expensive dining options. On the other hand, if you feel like indulging on specific nights, you can allocate funds for restaurants and dining experiences that appeal to you.
As mentioned, you can save a significant amount of money if you are not a big drinker, as alcoholic beverages tend to be fairly expensive, both as a la carte items or by raising the upfront fee of an all-inclusive package.
More Variety
Since you will be paying for everything you eat and drink separately, you are not limited to specific dining venues or bars in an all-inclusive package. You can choose where you want to eat and what you order, even if you have to pay for it. In other words, there is no pressure to only eat and drink what is included in your vacation package.
Cons of Booking a Non-All-Inclusive Cruise
Celebrity Equinox, The Retreat
Budget Uncertainty
Setting off on a vacation without knowing how much it will cost can be less appealing for those on a pre-set budget. When you add up all the meals, snacks, and drinks you will order, the total cost can be more than you envisioned when booking your trip.
Limiting Your Experience
A cruise holiday should be considered a treat for yourself and whoever you travel with. You do not want to find that you are not participating in certain experiences because of budget concerns. On the other hand, when you know that most things are already paid for, you can enjoy a more hands-off vacation where you simply do whatever you feel like doing at the moment.
As you can see, there are advantages and disadvantages for either type of cruise vacation, so the decision largely depends on your preferred travel style and budget.
If you are undecided, we recommend taking a look at options that match the type of destination and cruise itinerary you are looking for. You may find that all-inclusive options are limited to where you want your cruise voyage to go, or you could find the opposite.
Which Cruise Lines Offer All-Inclusive Options?
While almost every cruise line offers a non-inclusive option, all-inclusive experiences can be slightly more challenging to book.
Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of comprehensive all-inclusive packages. Not only do they cover your meals and drinks, these packages even provide access to thrilling activities and entertaining shows.
Norwegian Cruise Line allows passengers to choose Premium All-inclusive packages that cover most beverages but only provide a limited amount of pre-paid funds for food items.
Cruise Ships Docked in Puerto Rico (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)
On the other hand, certain cruise lines, like Carnival Cruise Lines, have less comprehensive packages that only include certain items. For example, they offerCarnival Drink Packages that provide passengers with certain beverages for an upfront fee, but they only offer a partial all-included package that covers everything.
Other major cruise lines, likePrincess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises, also offer all-inclusive packages that cover everything from meals and drinks to Wi-Fi, fitness classes, and even gratuity.
Your best bet is to look at the cruise voyages that match your preferences and then check with the cruise line or your booking agent to discover your options for meal and drink packages. While it can take a bit of research, it is worth it to book the exact cruise experience you are looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to tip if I am going on an all-inclusive cruise?
The policies regarding gratuity on cruise ships will vary depending on the cruise line you are traveling with. Some cruise lines clearly state that gratuities are included in the fees you pay to dine, even if you have not booked an all-inclusive package.
Others leave tipping up to the discretion of the passengers themselves. In these cases, traveling with some cash you can leave behind for tips is never a bad idea.
If you are unsure, contact your cruise line ahead of time and ask about their policies and expectations regarding gratuity.
2. Do all-inclusive packages include alcoholic beverages?
Most all-inclusive packages include a basic selection of alcoholic beverages, like certain beers, wines, and mixed drinks. Some of the more premium brands or complex cocktails tend to be available at an additional fee.
With that said, cruise lines offer all-inclusive plans that do not cover alcohol. Instead, these packages cover meals and non-alcoholic drinks, so they are usually less expensive. Basically, you need to look into the cruise line you are traveling with and see what options they offer.
3. Is room service included in an all inclusive cruise package?
For the most part, an all-inclusive cruise package will include basic room service options. Typically, you can order via the telephone in your room or an app-based digital menu. The items you can order at no additional cost might be limited, as more premium items will come at an additional fee.
Each cruise line has different policies, so it is always worth checking before you order anything for your cabin to avoid paying extra fees.
Are Cruises All Inclusive? – Final Words
One of the great joys of booking a cruise vacation is being able to select the exact type of experience you want. You can choose the exact itinerary and destination you want and have numerous options for food, beverage, and entertainment packages.
When deciding between an all-inclusive or a non-all-inclusive cruise, simply assess your budget and travel preferences. Both options offer advantages, so you cannot go wrong!
Princess Cruises has announced that the elite 360 dining experience will now be available on a limited basis to non-suite guests.
The premium event does command a premium price, but is far more than just a dinner – it is an epic journey through culinary worlds of the Mediterranean, engaging all the senses in a unique event for every taste.
Exclusive Dining Experience No Longer Exclusive
The 360: An Extraordinary Experience dining event, usually an exclusive, invitation-only experience for suite guests, will now be available for any guests to purchase for $149 (USD) per person.
The announcement was made by Vicki Johnson, Senior VP of Communications at Princess, during a recent media event in Barcelona.
The dining experience will still be an included perk for suite guests, and therefore, the availability of open spots for purchase will vary on individual sailings, depending on suite occupancy and other factors.
This will ensure the exclusivity of the experience but will also offer the opportunity for more guests to try, while keeping the venue fully booked.
Photo Courtesy: Princess Cruises
Only the cruise line’s two newest vessels, Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess, currently offer 360: An Extraordinary Experience. Johnson would neither confirm nor deny whether or not the dining event will be available on the upcoming Sphere-class Sun Princess, scheduled to debut in January 2024 with 29 different dining venue and lounge options.
“We have plenty of things up our sleeves,”said Johnson.“Let your imagination go wild.”
Not every dining venue on Sun Princess has yet been revealed. A new specialty restaurant is supposed to be revealed aft on Deck 17, while a “mysterious” as-yet-unknown venue is hidden behind a black, unmarked door on Deck 8, midship. Either location could potentially be a space for 360: An Extraordinary Experience, or may be completely new dining concepts.
About 360 on Princess Cruises
The 360: An Extraordinary Experience is an immersive, destination-inspired, seven-course meal that is “a journey through the sights, sounds, textures, and scents of the Mediterranean.”
Not only are carefully curated and expertly prepared dishes part of the event, but aromas, sounds, textures, and more are part of the high-tech gastronomical gala.
Video screens with 4K cinematography, storytelling, personalization, and other effects are woven into the unique event, which connects guests to their meals in intimate and distinctive ways to foster greater understanding and appreciation of every bite.
At the moment, 360 only offers a Mediterranean dining experience with dishes from Greece, Spain, Italy, and France. Guest feedback has indicated a desire for additional destination-focused menus to be added to the unique culinary entertainment venue, though the cruise line has not announced any such plans in development.
Interested guests should note that the menu for 360 is a set experience (not a la carte ordering), though some adjustments can be made for allergies if the cruise line is appropriately notified.
Guests with less adventurous dining tastes may not enjoy the experience as much, but the menu offers amazing bites for a wide range of palates.
Exclusive Dining Options More Popular Than Ever
While specialty dining restaurants with exclusive menus are a staple for many cruise lines, elite dining “experiences” are becoming more and more popular aboard cruise ships, with a wide range of options available.
From the ever-popular hibachi- or teppanyaki-style meals that showcase chef tricks while the food is prepared to chef’s table-style experiences offering behind-the-scenes looks at food preparation, guests with all sorts of dining preferences can enjoy these events.
More elaborate experiences showcasing culinary gastronomy are also increasing, such as the Wonderland “imaginative dinner” experience available aboard select Royal Caribbean International ships.
Some lines even offer food-focused sailings, such as the “Culinary Cruises” offered by Holland America Line with the world’s top chefs onboard and hosting exclusive dinners or Costa Cruises’ ChocoCruise 2023 with all things chocolate on offer.
Princess Cruises is well known for outstanding dining options and a delicious culinary experience, not only for elaborate options like 360, but even for each ship’s specialty dining, main dining rooms, and casual eateries. Now, even more guests will get to enjoy every delicious dining option the cruise line offers.
Norwegian Cruise Line is making a major effort to embrace and encourage the solo cruiser market with the announcement that close to 1,000 staterooms will soon be rebranded as solo cabins.
Three stateroom categories earmarked for solo guests will open for bookings this week across the line’s fleet of 19 ships.
More Studio Staterooms Available in Early 2024
Responding to recent data showing the solo traveler market is significantly widening, Norwegian Cruise Line rolled out three new cabin categories just for solo guests: Solo Inside, Solo Oceanview, and Solo Balcony.
The cruise line unveiled the new accommodations option on October 3, 2023, and this week is opening bookings of the new category on cruises with departure dates starting on January 2, 2024.
Norwegian Cruise Line Solo Cabin
“We strive to provide our guests with diverse offerings to create their dream vacation,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.
Currently, just nine ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet offer solo cabins, including its newest ship, Norwegian Viva, which launch in August 2023. Guests booking solo cabins enjoy key card access to a Studio Lounge (on ships where available), which features a bar, lounge area, and daily snacks.
“Since we first launched our solo staterooms in 2010 with Norwegian Epic, they have been quite popular with single travelers. We are continuously listening to our guests to deliver the experience they want. After realizing the growing demand of individuals looking to travel on their own, we have now expanded single occupancy staterooms across our fleet,” Herrera added.
Norwegian Cruise Line Studio Lounge
On October 3, 2023, the “dates and prices” links for various 2024 cruises on the Norwegian Cruise Line website show a “studio” category indicating “solo guests only,” but has no live cruise fares posted yet.
Itinerary, Demand Will Affect Solo Fares
The cruise line’s announcement indicates that pricing and availability will be based on destination and on demand for solo cabins, but solo guests will most likely pay a lower fare than if they booked a double occupancy stateroom.
Generally, solo cruisers without access to dedicated solo cabins typically pay a hefty single supplement fee if they book a double cabin. The fee can bring a solo guest’s fare as high as the full cruise fare for two people sharing a double cabin.
Cruise lines sometimes waive single supplement fees during special, limited-time marketing promotions. Virgin Vacations, for instance, in May waived single supplements on all of its summer 2023 sailings in Europe.
Spike Seen in Solo Traveler Bookings, Searches
Norwegian Cruise Line’s decision to add nearly 1,000 solo guest cabins to its fleet follows a notable spike in solo travel across the travel industry, while the cruise line’s own reservations data revealed an increase in solo cruisers booking non-studio accommodations.
The cruise line, a brand of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, said the trend was revealed in bookings between 2019 and 2022. In the wider tourism industry, a study by the global distribution system Travelport found that solo travel comprises nearly 18% of global bookings.
In another sign of a healthy solo travel market, Radical Storage, a global luggage storage network, revealed a 267% spike in online searches for “solo travel.” The finding was gleaned from searches conducted from late 2020 to spring 2022.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s sister brand, upmarket Oceania Cruises, also hopped on the solo stateroom bandwagon in 2022, when it designated 56 cabins as solo accommodations onboard four ships.
Each of Oceania’s ships, Regatta, Nautica, Insignia, and Sirena, added 14 solo oceanview staterooms, while the line’s newest ship, Vista, which entered service after her christening in May 2023, features six Concierge Level Solo Veranda Staterooms.
Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to booked guests and travel agents to notify them of an upcoming increase in the price of the popular Cheers! all-included beverage package.
Guests have just a few days to lock in savings at the current rate before the price increase takes effect on Sunday, October 8, 2023.
Drink Package Price Increasing
The Cheers! Beverage Program for Carnival Cruise Line will be increasing by $10 (USD) per person, per day for short cruises of 3, 4, or 5 nights as of October 8, 2023. The increase is effective for all cruise departure dates from December 1, 2023 and later.
This will make the total price of Cheers! $69.95 per person, per day when purchased before sailing. Onboard, the price will be $74.95 per person, per day.
The previous pricing of $59.95 per person, per day ($64.95 when purchased onboard) will remain in effect through Saturday, October 7, giving booked guests the opportunity to make their purchases right away and lock in the lower rate before their sailing.
Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line
All prices do not include the 18% service charge that will be added upon checking out with the package purchase.
Cruises departing prior to December 1 are not impacted by the price increase, and there is no price change at this time for sailings of six nights or longer, regardless of departure date.
Similarly, there is no price change for the Bottomless Bubbles drink package at this time, which includes all-you-can-drink soda and juice for $9.50 per adult per day, and $6.95 per child per day.
There are no additional changes to the package, such as the number of permitted drinks, excluded beverages, or where drinks in the Cheers! package may be served.
Why No Increase on Longer Sailings?
Carnival guests enjoying longer sailings do not have any pricing changes for Cheers! at the moment, but why? It is possible that the cruise line is considering overall beverage consumption volume with regards to the pricing changes, and many travelers indulge more heavily in the first few days of a sailing, but taper off later in the cruise.
On longer sailings, then, the overall drinks consumed compared to package pricing would balance out in successive days, but on short cruises the costs may be higher with more guests reaching the 15 drinks-per-day limit of the Cheers! package.
It is also possible that the increase in cost is a subtle attempt to help curb excess consumption on shorter sailings, which are often referred to as “booze cruises” for the excess drinking that can lead to poor behavior and rowdiness onboard.
Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive
This increase may also be a test for overall pricing, and if successful, may lead to similar price increases for the Cheers! package on longer Carnival cruises.
The last price increase for Cheers! was in mid-2022, when the rates were raised to the current level. In early 2022, Cheers! was $51.95 per person per day when purchased before sailing, and $56.95 when purchased onboard. With the upcoming price increase, Cheers! will have increased by more than 30% in under two years.
About Cheers!
The Cheers! Beverage Program is Carnival Cruise Line’s all-inclusive drinks package. Guests are limited to 15 alcoholic drinks per day, but can indulge in all the sodas and other applicable non-alcoholic drinks they wish with the package purchase.
The non-transferrable package must be purchased for the entire length of a cruise and is not available on a per-diem basis. Also, if one guest purchases the program, all travelers age 21 and older in the same stateroom must also purchase the package. This is a deterrent to sharing packages, which is not permitted.
The cruise line does have procedures to monitor alcohol consumption and bartenders can refuse to serve guests who appear to be intoxicated, even if they have not reached the 15-drink limit of the Cheers! package.
Bottles of wine or champagne are not included in the package, nor are any drinks with price higher than $20 or any beverage seminars or classes, such as mixology classes. Drinks in souvenir glasses, room service beverages, shared drinks such as pitchers or buckets, or drinks while off the ship – including in Half Moon Cay or Princess Cays – are likewise excluded from the package.
Terms and conditions of all drinks packages, including Cheers! pricing, are subject to change at any time.
Carnival Cruise Line celebrated the Bahamas’ 50th anniversary of independence in grand style aboard the fleet’s flagship, Carnival Celebration, with a special event on Sunday, October 1.
The event took place in Miami, Florida, in honor of the connections between the Bahamas and Carnival Cruise Line, and is one of several Bahamian independence celebratory events this year.
Carnival Celebration Hosts Bahamas Celebration
While Carnival Celebration was docked in Miami on Sunday, October 1, 2023, Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis and US Representative Federica Wilson, the founder of the Florida Ports Caucus and honorary co-host for the event, joined Carnival Corporation President, CEO, and Chief Climate Officer Josh Weinstein for a special anniversary event.
The event commemorates the anniversary of the Bahamas’ national independence, as well as marks the launch of the 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project, a mentoring program founded by Wilson that has had a dramatic impact on South Florida young men and will now be expanded to Bahamian youth as well.
Carnival and Bahamas Event
“It was an honor to stand alongside [Carnival Cruise Line] as we celebrated this historic occasion and announced the launch of the first international chapter of the 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project in the Bahamas—this is truly a dream come true,”said Wilson. “Together, we celebrate the spirit of excellence and unity that defines our communities and look forward to a brighter future ahead.”
The 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project began in 1993 in Miami-Dade County with the goal of working with at-risk boys to help them choose a better path than crime and violence through supportive, positive relationships with adult male role models. Now, several other Florida counties also use the program, and the Bahamas will have the first international chapter.
Carnival Cruise Line Supporting and Celebrating the Bahamas
Carnival Cruise Line has long supported initiatives in the Bahamas, ever since the cruise line first began sailing to the diverse island nation 51 years ago.
“We are so grateful for our partnership with this remarkable nation, which goes back to the very beginning of our company and has only strengthened over the last 50 years,”said Weinstein.“The Bahamas has always been one of the most popular destinations among our guests, thanks to the hospitality of the Bahamian people, the natural beauty of the islands, and the nation’s rich culture.”
Today, the cruise line visits five ports of call in the island nation: the capital, Nassau, as well as Freeport and Bimini, along with two private island destinations – Half Moon Cay and Princess Cay.
The weekend event aboard the 183,521-gross-ton, Excel-class Carnival Celebration is only the most recent of several celebrations the cruise line has hosted in recognition of the Bahamas 50th Anniversary of Independence.
In June, the cruise line hosted a Golden Jubilee breakfast aboard Carnival Legend while the ship was docked in Freeport, with community members and local officials onboard for the occasion, which included recognizing parliamentarians for their service to their nation and communities.
For the island nation, celebrations will continue throughout the year to mark the grand occasion, with parades, performances, and many other special events to enjoy.
The upcoming Celebrity Ascent cruise ship successfully finished her sea trials over the weekend, bringing her one momentous step closer to her November 2023 debut.
Sea trials are a critical step in the finishing phases of a ship’s construction and outfitting, as these tests ensure all critical systems are operating properly and the ship is ready to set sail.
Celebrity Ascent Passes Sea Trials
Celebrity Ascent completed several strenuous days of sea trials over the weekend, performing various tests and maneuvers in the Bay of Biscay near the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France, where the ship has been under construction.
With this milestone, Celebrity Ascent has “ascended” to the peak of her construction with her first open-ocean sailing, marking successful tests of propulsion, braking, turns, maneuvering, and emergency systems during her sea trials, passing the tests with flying colors.
The ship’s brother co-captains, Demetrios and Tasos Kafetzis, led the ship and nearly 200 crew members onboard through the various tests, putting the ship through her figurative paces from bow to stern. These tests show critical responses of the ship’s systems to ensure safe and efficient operation when the vessel puts to sea with guests aboard.
Celebrity Ascent Begins Sea Trials (Photo Credit: Bruno Bouvry Photographer)
The fourth ship in the innovative Edge class from Celebrity Cruises, Celebrity Ascent first came into being with the initial steel-cutting on November 17, 2021, marking the beginning of the physical construction of the ship’s hull. In August 2022, the keel was laid and the assembly of the ship began, and in January 2023, the ship was floated out of the construction bay and moved to a nearby dock for continuing work.
The sea trials are the last major milestone of the construction process, and it is expected that the ship will be officially handed over to Celebrity Cruises in the coming weeks ahead of her November 2023 preview sailings.
Cruising on Celebrity Ascent
The 140,600-gross ton Celebrity Ascent will be homeported from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, alongside her sister ships Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond, the second and third vessels in the Edge class, respectively. The premier vessel of the innovative class, Celebrity Edge, will be homeported from Sydney, Australia for the Southern Hemisphere summer season.
The ship’s official maiden voyage will set sail on December 3, 2023. The 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailing will visit St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Amber Cove.
Through the winter months, Celebrity Ascent will offer a variety of 7-night Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Bahamas/Mexico sailings to top ports of call such as Nassau, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, San Juan, St. Kitts, and more.
Photo Courtesy: Celebrity Cruises
In April 2024, the ship will reposition from Florida to Europe via 13-night transatlantic cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona, stopping at the Canary Islands, Madeira, and Malaga along the way, before the ship spends the summer months in the Mediterranean. Celebrity Ascent will return to Fort Lauderdale in late October 2024.
Regardless of where she is sailing, guests onboard Celebrity Ascent are in for fantastic luxury, stellar entertainment, exquisite dining, and more.
The ship, which can welcome 3,260 travelers aboard per sailing, features all the amenities already outrageously popular on the other Edge-class ships, but reimagined for the new vessel.
Guests can choose from 32 restaurants, bars, and lounges, and will enjoy the stunning multi-deck Sunset Bar, the open-air Rooftop Garden, the cantilevered Magic Carpet floating platform, the immersive Eden transformative space, and so very much more.
Carnival Corporation’s President and CEO, Josh Weinstein, has indicated that the company is open to implementing a fuel surcharge. The statement came during a recent Q3 earnings call and signaled a level of uncertainty concerning rising fuel prices.
Although Weinstein mentions that any potential surcharge would only affect future bookings, not guests who have already secured their cruise, Carnival Cruise Line’s terms and conditions indicate otherwise.
According to their policy, the surcharge could be applied even if the cruise fare has been paid in full, potentially adding hundreds of dollars to the onboard bill for guests.
Fuel Surcharges Could be Coming to Carnival
Carnival Corporation’s President and CEO, Josh Weinstein, addressed the often-sensitive subject of fuel surcharges during the 3rd quarter earnings call on September 29. This issue has become a talking point since fuel pricing increased dramatically between early 2022 and now.
If a fuel surcharge were implemented, this would come when cruise pricing has already been elevated, and guests are paying a premium. At the same time, several cruise lines have steadily removed various services onboard. Adding a fuel surcharge could affect the booking decisions of prospective cruisers.
Josh Weinstein said: “Yeah. It’s certainly not off the table. We wouldn’t take anything off of the table. It’s not something we’re planning to implement in the near term, although that could certainly change. There are certainly considerations that have to be made about what’s the norm in society with the expectations of our customers.”
Photo Credit: Francisco Blanco / Shutterstock
Adding a fuel surcharge would be a temporary measure, primarily to counter sudden price increases, and it would not affect guests who have already booked their cruises with one of the nine cruise lines that Carnival Corporation operates, according to Weinstein:
“Obviously, you don’t go retroactively too. So, you’re talking about forward bookings. But I wouldn’t take anything off the table. I would reiterate, though, even a fuel surcharge is temporary.”
However, Carnival Cruise Line, which is by far the largest component of Carnival Corporation, has a different policy. Their terms and conditions specify a “Fuel supplement,” essentially an additional charge designed to offset a portion of the company’s fuel costs.
According to the policy, Carnival reserves the right to charge a fuel supplement of up to USD 9.00 per person per day if the price of light sweet crude oil exceeds USD 70.00 per barrel.
What’s noteworthy here is that Carnival may collect this supplement at the time of sailing, even if the guests have already paid the cruise fare in full. For a family of four on a seven-night cruise, this adds up to $252.
Will Carnival Add a Surcharge?
The prospect of adding a fuel surcharge is something Carnival Corporation would regard as a last resort, knowing it would raise eyebrows among their guests.
In response to an analyst’s question about why Carnival doesn’t hedge fuel (locking in a specific price for fuel for a set period), Weinstein indicated that hedging, like a surcharge, isn’t off the table but also noted that its impact on share price and long-term value was found to be minimal in their studies.
Photo Credit: ThePhotoFab / Shutterstock
So, what other options does Carnival have to avoid a fuel surcharge? One method is simply to reduce consumption. Efforts to use less fuel saved the company an estimated $375 million this year.
This likely leads to Carnival’s nine cruise lines re-evaluating their routes, which could lead to more fuel-efficient cruises but with potential itinerary changes.
Since the earnings call, the stock price of Carnival has dipped around 30 cents per share. Interestingly, this appears to be more of a market reaction to the company’s projected fourth-quarter loss.
However, it could be that the market is sensitive to the unresolved question of a potential fuel surcharge and how guests would react to even higher cruise pricing.
