Registration for Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador John Heald’s “FFS Cruise” was slightly delayed due to a technical glitch that prevented guests from registering for the special event on July 31 as planned. The glitch has been corrected, and registration for the unique events on the special sailing sold out just five minutes after opening.
Technical Problems Prevent Registration
Brief technical difficulties prevented guests from registering for Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador John Heald’s 2024 “FFS Cruise” – a special sailing where Heald will host events, meet and greet guests, and arrange for extra special fun throughout the cruise.
The designated sailing is the February 17, 2024 departure of Carnival Horizon, an 8-night roundtrip Southern Caribbean cruise from Miami, visiting Bonaire, Aruba, and both La Romana and Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic. This will be the sixth “For Fun’s Sake” cruise for Heald to host, special sailings that have become wildly popular with the brand ambassador’s large following of Carnival fans.
Passengers booked onboard the sailing have the option to select special registration for Heald’s individual events. Registration was to have opened at midnight on July 31, 2023, but technical difficulties prevented guests from registering appropriately, with some travelers attempting to do so for hours without success.
Photo Copyright: Tony Davis (Flickr)
“My sincere apologies to the many of you who stayed up to reserve a spot on my FFS Cruise,”Heald said when the difficulties were noted.“It appears there is a glitch in the system which is embarrassing to say the least.”
Registration was reset after the glitch was corrected, and opened to guests from 9 a.m. Miami (Eastern) time on Tuesday, August 1, 2023. In just minutes, all 650 available spaces were filled.
“Thank you so much to everybody who signed up to be part of my special cruise next year. We sold out to 650 in the space of literally five minutes,”Heald said.
Because of the popularity, Heald has started a waiting list for interested guests in case additional spaces open up before the cruise sets sail.
“I will do my very best to help you be part of the group,”Heald said.“I also promise to each and everyone of you that signed up that I will do everything I can to make this the best cruise ever as we enjoy private activities in the main lounge, lashings of cocktails, a special gift, and a massive dollop of fun.”
Why Register?
The “For Fun’s Sake” cruises are not charter sailings where all travelers have access to all onboard events, and therefore guests interested in attending Heald’s exclusive activities must register to reserve their space. Once confirmed, registered guests will be able to attend two exclusive parties with complimentary cocktails, as well as a private tea time with Heald.
Photo Copyright: Tony Davis
Special morning breakfasts, private meet-and-greets, a question-and-answer session, and other exclusive events will all be part of the sailing. FFS guests will also receive a welcome aboard lanyard and a special gift to commemorate the unique cruise.
Other onboard activities, including production and comedy shows, games, contests, deck parties, and more will be available to all guests just like on any Carnival cruise.
About the FFS Cruises
Carnival Cruise Line and John Heald arrange one FFS Cruise per year, giving guests an opportunity to meet Heald and enjoy his unique wit and insights over decades of service with the cruise line.
FFS Cruises began in 2007 as “Bloggers Cruises” connected to Heald’s very successful blog at the time. With the advent and explosion of social media, the blog has been discontinued, but Heald remains connected to his fans and offering tips, advice, and problem solving through his wildly popular Facebook page, where he has more than 517,000 followers and answers hundreds of questions each day.
John Heald
In 2018, these special cruises became “For Fun’s Sake Cruises” and Heald frequently uses the “FFS” notation in his posts as commentary on sometimes eye-rolling or crazy issues.
The 2024 FFS Cruise is aboard the 133,500-gross ton Vista-class Carnival Horizon. Heald did consider offering the cruise aboard the new Carnival Jubilee, set to debut in December 2023, but the popularity of the ship and success of advance bookings has already meant too few cabins remained to accommodate fans for the FFS Cruise.
Carnival Horizon can welcome 3,960 guests when booked at double occupancy, and up to 4,977 passengers when fully booked with all berths filled.
Princess Cruises has revealed its 2025 Alaska itineraries, with cruises and cruisetours exclusive to the line with both short and long options, 18 unique itineraries, more than 150 departures, seven ships, and five homeports for travelers to choose from.
There are also more than 25 cruisetour options available for guests who want to extend their getaways to the Last Frontier with even more exploration.
2025 Alaska Cruises Announced
Princess Cruises has announced an amazing lineup of exclusive itineraries for the 2025 Alaska sailing season. Included are both shorter and longer itineraries, in-depth cruisetours that combine land and sea getaways, and a wide range of options for vessels and homeports to give meet every traveler’s Alaskan dreams.
“As the market leader in Alaska, we’re excited to offer guests even more exciting ways to see the natural beauty of Alaska with itineraries in 2025 that serve up new adventures and extended journeys that first-time guests and repeat visitors are going to find intriguing,”said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president.
Discovery Princess in Alaska
Of special interest are three longer sailings new to Princess Cruises that offer outstanding experiences for guests, both in timing and itinerary, as well as shorter cruises offering unique options for visiting Alaska.
All 2025 Princess Cruises Alaska sailings will be available for booking starting on Thursday, August 3, 2023.
Longer Sailings for In-Depth Cruises
The longest 2025 Alaska cruise on offer from Princess Cruises in 2025 is a 22-day sailing aboard Ruby Princess, departing San Francisco on June 6, 2025. This “Ultimate Alaska Solstice With Glacier Bay National Park” cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will bring guests to top Alaska destinations just when the weather and daily sunlight is at its peak.
Grand Princess is offering both a 17-day roundtrip “Ultimate Alaska with Glacier Bay National Park” sailing from Seattle on May 6, 2025, and a 16-day “Inside Passage with Glacier Bay National Park” voyage from Los Angeles on August 30, 2025.
Photo Courtesy: Princess Cruises
All three of these longer sailings offer outstanding scenic cruising combined with popular Alaskan ports of call, with more diverse homeport options for travelers’ convenience – without the need for airfare for many travelers.
Of course, cruise guests on any Princess sailing can also investigate cruisetour options that combine oceangoing getaways with Denali-area resorts for a more immersive, land-based experience for a full Alaskan adventure.
Shorter Cruises for Convenience
Classic 7-night sailings will also be available aboard Caribbean Princess, Coral Princess, and Sapphire Princess, with both northbound (from Vancouver) and southbound (from Anchorage) routes. Meanwhile, Discovery Princess, Grand Princess, and Royal Princess will offer roundtrip weekly Inside Passage cruises from Seattle and Vancouver.
For guests who want to visit Alaska on a tighter schedule, shorter “Alaska Sampler” voyages on Discovery Princess, Royal Princess, and Grand Princess are available on select dates. These 4- and 5-night itineraries are outstanding quick getaways that still visit popular ports of call such as Ketchikan and Sitka, depending on vessel and departure date.
More to Explore on Every Sailing
No matter what the length of the sailing, Princess Cruises’ guests will enjoy the line’s award-winning “North to Alaska” program onboard. This curated program brings native Alaskans, local professionals, and Last Frontier experts onboard for in-depth insights into the unique culture and history of the state.
Lumberjacks, Iditarod champions, native storytellers, Glacier Bay park rangers, and experienced naturalists are all part of the exclusive programming, with such favorites as Puppies in the Piazza to meet sled-dog puppies and Junior Ranger program for young cruisers.
Authorities have launched a search for a passenger overboard from Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas cruise ship. At the time, the Quantum-ultra class vessel was en route to Singapore.
Guest Overboard Spectrum of the Seas Cruise Ship
A search is underway for a passenger who apparently “fell” overboard the Spectrum of the Seas cruise ship, which Miami-based Royal Caribbean operates.
The cruise line launched a search for the missing guest, and according to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), authorities were notified at 7:50 AM on July 31, 2023.
Spectrum of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: I Love Drones / Shutterstock)
According to The Straits Times, the missing guest is a 64-year-old female who can’t swim, and the woman’s family first raised the alarm to the ship’s crew.
The guest was overboard while the Quantum-ultra class vessel was in the Singapore Strait while heading back to its homeport in Singapore.
The ship was ending a four-night voyage that included visits to Klang and Penang in Malaysia. The cruise first commenced out of Singapore on July 27.
Photo Credit: Pro Aerial Master / Shutterstock
MRCC said in a statement: “At about 7:50 am on 31 July 2023, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Singapore operated by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), was notified that a passenger onboard a Cyprus-flagged passenger vessel, Spectrum of the Seas, had fallen overboard in the Singapore Strait while enroute into Singapore.“
A search effort is underway to find the passenger, including authorities issuing a safety broadcast to other vessels in the area to keep a lookout for a missing person and report any sighting to the MRCC. Royal Caribbean has also confirmed that a care team is supporting the missing guest’s family.
Ship Already on Next Voyage
At this time, the Spectrum of the Seas has already returned to Singapore and departed on Monday afternoon on the following 12-night voyage, including calls in Vietnam, China, Taiwan, and Japan, before ending in Yokohama on August 12, 2023.
Spectrum of the Seas
The cruise ship operates a mixture of 5-, 7-, 9- and 12-night itineraries in Asia for a first year-round season out of Singapore. Spectrum of the Seas will shift to begin sailings out of Shanghai, China, in April 2024. The vessel has a gross tonnage of 169,379 and a guest capacity of 4,246 at double occupancy.
Second Overboard in Recent Days
This is now the second overboard from a cruise ship in over a week. On July 25, a search was suspended for a 30-year-old male overboard passenger from Carnival Elation, operated by Carnival Cruise Line.
The incident happed approximately 95 miles east of Melbourne in Florida, and the US Coast Guard covered more than 1,300 square miles before calling off the search.
For Royal Caribbean, the last overboard was from Mariner of the Seas on June 25, 2023, when a female guest accidentally went over the ship after sitting on the railings to take a photo. Thankfully, in this case, she was rescued by the ship’s crew.
If you’re booking a cruise from Boston, chances are you’ll need to stay at one of the hotels near Boston cruise port. Also known as Flynn Cruiseport, it serves the entire northeast area of the USA, including New England and over the border in southeast Canada.
Located in the Seaport district of Boston Harbor, hotels in Downtown Boston are just three miles from the cruise port. There are also several hotels near the cruise port that are located at Boston Logan (BOS) International Airport. These hotels are ideal for cruisers as they are just a 10-minute ride away. Many airport hotels offer shuttle buses to the cruise terminal. How convenient is that!
Other hotels near Boston cruise port offer helpful services for cruisers, such as free cruise parking as part of a Stay and Park package. If you plan to drive to Boston for your cruise departure, these packages could save you money compared to the cost of cruise parking for a week or more.
Experienced cruisers know that it’s always a good idea to arrive at your cruise departure point the day before your cruise departs.
Intercontinental Hotel in Boston (Photo Credit: 2p2play / Shutterstock)
This allows time for any unforeseeable problems, such as airport delays, flight cancellations and vehicle breakdowns, to be resolved. It avoids unnecessary stress or, worse still, missing your cruise departure.
Booking a hotel that’s convenient to the cruise port allows you to arrive safely, sleep well and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading out to the cruise terminal by shuttle, taxi or even on foot!
You can also extend your cruise vacation by booking a hotel near Boston cruise port for a post-cruise stay. There are so many things to see and do in this scenic area of Massachusetts, so why not make the most of your visit?
We’ve rounded up all the best hotels in Boston near the cruise port. We’ve listed hotels with shuttle buses, luxury hotels, budget hotels and plenty of accommodation close to Boston cruise terminal. Prices can be compared with the $ to $$$ rating.
Now the hard work and research is done, check out our recommended hotels near Boston cruise port and book the one that’s best suited to your needs. Then relax and look forward to your cruise, knowing that everything is taken care of.
Hotels Within Walking Distance of Boston Cruise Port
Boston, MA is one of the few places where you can stay at a hotel within walking distance of the cruise terminal. Check out these hotels that are less than a mile away.
Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock
Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston Seaport District
Homewood Suites by Hilton is ideal for cruisers as it is located right on the waterfront and just a 5-minute stroll to the Flynn Cruise Terminal. It’s located on the corner of Summer St and Drydock Ave so it doesn’t get much more convenient than that!
This mid-range Travelers’ Choice hotel is all-suite so you get a spacious air-conditioned room with a sitting area and free WiFi. All guest rooms include a kitchenette with refrigerator, coffee maker, toaster, sink and cooktop. The hotel also provides a free hot breakfast. Many suites have views across the waterfront. There’s a heated indoor pool and fitness center for those who want to burn off those cruise calories and there’s plenty to see and do nearby.
Distance from cruise port: 0.2 miles
Address: 670 Summer St, Boston
Price: $$
Hampton Inn Boston Seaport District
Relax in a comfortable modern room at the Hampton Inn Boston Seaport District and enjoy this high-rise hotel’s amazing waterfront/harbor views. It shares the building with Homewood Suites and is an easy 5-minute walk from the hotel to the Boston Cruise Terminal.
Features include blackout curtains, cable or satellite TV, a laptop safe, a hairdryer, iron, and more. This two-star hotel also offers a free hot breakfast and complimentary WiFi, as well as access to the heated indoor pool and fitness center.
Distance from cruise port: 0.2 miles
Address: 670 Summer St, Boston
Price: $$
Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel
The four-star Renaissance Hotel is an excellent place to stay in the Seaport District. Comfortable rooms and amenities include valet parking, a heated pool, a sauna, a fitness room, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests are pampered with bathrobes, a tea/coffee maker, a refrigerator, a satellite TV, and a seating area with a sofa bed. This hotel near Boston cruise port is ideal for families.
Distance from cruise port: 0.6 miles
Address: 606 Congress St
Price: $$$
Hyatt Place, Boston Seaport
Hyatt Place, Boston Seaport provides a luxurious ambiance and excellent amenities, but this quality brand hotel near Boston cruise port is also very affordable. Rooms are beautifully furnished and include free internet access, a mini fridge, digital key access and check-in, in-room Chromecast, and all the latest technology. There’s an onsite restaurant, free breakfast, a fitness center, and a laundry.
Just minutes from the bustling harbor and boat trips, this hotel is the perfect base for exploring the waterfront. If you’re staying in Boston for a few days post-cruise, it’s also convenient for visiting Boston Public Garden, touring the Harpoon Brewery or attending a concert at the iconic Rockland Trust Bank Pavilion nearby. It’s a 9-minute walk from the hotel to the Boston cruise port or a short taxi ride.
Distance from cruise port: 0.4 miles
Address: 295 Northern Ave,Boston
Price: $$
Cheap Hotels Near Boston Cruise Port
These are the cheapest options that passengers can choose when staying in Boston before or after their vacation at sea.
Photo Credit: Anita Denunzio / Shutterstock.com
Copley House
Copley House is a budget-friendly two-star hotel located in Back Bay, Boston. Guests stay in spacious studios with cable TV, WiFi, and use of a fully equipped kitchen. There are four floors of accommodation but no elevator. On-site parking is available for $30 a night.
Distance from cruise port: 2.9 miles
Address:239 West Newton St
Price: $
Oasis Guest House
Clean and comfortable, Oasis Guest House accommodation is nicely presented and well located close to Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox. Guests can relax on outdoor terraces. Some rooms have ensuite bathrooms while others share, so check when booking. Parking is available, and a continental breakfast is included.
Distance from cruise port: 3.2 miles
Address: 22 Edgerly Rd, Fenway Kenmore
Price: $
Found Hotel, Boston Common
Tucked away in the Theater District, this boutique Boston cruise hotel is truly unique. Operating since 1877, Found Hotel is ideal for a budget stay in a prime location. Well-maintained, individually designed rooms include a desk. There’s a coffee machine and bottled water in the lobby.
Distance from cruise port: 2.1 miles
Address: 78 Charles St
Price: $
Staybridge Suites
Located in Revere,Staybridge Suites IHG Hotel offers spacious suite accommodation a short taxi ride from Boston cruise port. The modern purpose-built hotel has a fitness center, swimming pool, lounge and bar. Air-conditioned rooms include tea/coffee and free WiFi. The hotel also offers a free shuttle to and from the airport.
Distance from cruise port: 9.1 miles
Address: 245 Revere Beach Parkway, Revere
Price: $
Farrington Inn
The two-star Farrington Inn is a traditional guest house close to Packards Corner T metro station. Spacious guest rooms include TV and shared bathrooms. There’s private parking and lots of restaurants nearby.
Distance from cruise port: 5.5 miles
Address: 23 Farrington Ave
Price: $
Luxury Hotels Near Boston Cruise Port
For those cruise passengers willing to splash the cash a bit more, there are also some luxury options to enjoy while spending some time in the city.
Boston Skyline
Omni Hotel
The luxury Omni is a four-star hotel near the Boston cruise terminal. Relax in plush air-conditioned rooms with private parking, a fitness center, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool. The hotel has an in-house hot tub, hairdressers, and a business center, just 0.6 miles from the airport.
Distance from cruise port: 0.6 miles
Address: 450 Summer St
Price: $$$
The Envoy Hotel
The Envoy is a contemporary hotel in Boston near the cruise port and waterfront. Lavishly appointed with a chandeliered bar, rooms are sophisticated and light with floor-to-ceiling windows. Make use of the rooftop bar, restaurant and 24-hour gym.
Distance from cruise port: 1.2 miles
Address: 70 Sleeper St
Price: $$$
Westin Boston
The four-star Westin hotel is right on the waterfront and a short taxi ride from Boston cruise port. The hotel has a swimming pool and a vertical garden highlight. Comfortable rooms include a flat-screen TV, Starbucks coffee maker, and bathrobe. There’s a renowned restaurant, an Irish bar, and an outdoor patio.
Distance from cruise port: 0.7 miles
Address: 425 Summer St
Price: $$$
Residence Inn Downtown by Marriott
Located in an historic building in Boston city center, the Residence Inn has spacious rooms with a full kitchen, flatscreen TV and sofa bed as well as a double bed. Bright decor and tall windows provide an amazing ambience. Rooms include free WiFi, a hot breakfast and fitness center.
Distance from cruise port: 1.1 miles
Address: 370 Congress St, Boston
Price: $$$
The Eliot Hotel
In the heart of Downtown Boston, The Eliot Hotel is a charming boutique hotel near the cruise port and terminal. It offers a taste of Paris in the heart of historic Boston. Beautifully furnished rooms offer city views along with tea/coffee makers, a sofa bed and bathrobes. Valet parking and an upscale bar enhance the experience.
Distance from cruise port: 3.2 miles
Address: 370 Commonwealth Ave, Back Bay
Price: $$$
Hotels Near Boston Cruise Port with Shuttle
Some hotels near Boston cruise port offer a shuttle service for overnight guests. They may be complimentary or charge a small fee for the service.
Photo Credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock
Double Tree by Hilton – Downtown
Located in the heart of Boston’s vibrant Theater District, the Double Tree by Hilton Downtown welcomes guests with a warm chocolate chip cookie and complimentary Starbucks drink. Once a prestigious High School, this hotel offers a historic ambience in a landmark building. Generously sized guest rooms boast minimalist furnishings, large picture windows and high ceilings.
Cruisers can book a free shuttle transfer to Boston Black Falcon cruise terminal, making this a great choice. For those wanting to explore Boston, this is a well located hotel is close to Boston cruise port and Chinatown. The subway T stop is right at the hotel entrance.
Distance from cruise port: 2.0 miles
Address: 821 Washington St, Boston
Price: $$
Holiday Inn Express, Boston
Holiday Inn Express is an IHP hotel with modern rooms and a high approval rate from past guests. Minutes from Downtown Boston, this three star hotel offers a free shuttle service to the airport and cruise port – perfect for cruisers flying into Boston Logan Airport.
Rooms have flatscreen TV, WiFi and complimentary bottled water. There’s a fitness center and business center services. The hotel has private parking on-site and Stay and Cruise packages are available.
Distance from cruise port: 2.2 miles
Address: 69 Boston St
Price: $$
Hotels Near Boston Cruise Port with Cruise Parking
The Rodeway Inn is located near Boston International Airport. Ideal for cruisers, it offers free parking and shuttle transport to the cruise terminal as part of its Park-Sleep-Fly package. The hotel has just 32 no-frills rooms with TV, coffee maker and free WiFi but no onsite amenities. However, it’s close to the USS Constitution Museum and the Massachusetts State House attractions.
Distance from cruise port: 7.8 miles
Address: 309 American Legion Hwy, Revere
Price: $
Four Points Sheraton Boston Logan Airport
Handy for cruisers, the Four Points Sheraton is an affordably priced hotel within easy reach of Boston cruise port. It has free parking and a shuttle as part of their Stay and Cruise package plus a fitness center, WiFi and pool.
Distance from cruise port: 8.9 miles
Address: 407 Squire Rd, Revere
Price: $$$
Hilton Garden Inn
Close to Boston Logan International Airport, the Hilton Garden Inn is ideal for those wanting an all-inclusive Stay and Cruise package. Rooms are upscale and include cruise parking, breakfast and a shuttle to and from the Black Falcon Boston Cruise Terminal.
Distance from cruise port: 5.2 miles
Address: 100 Boardman St
Price: $$$
Aloft Boston Seaport
Aloft Hotel offers pet-friendly accommodation with free WiFi, fitness center, saltwater pool and private parking for cruisers by arrangement. This stylish hotel is close to Boston cruise port, the Convention Center and Back Bay. It has live entertainment at the bar.
Distance from cruise port: 0.8 miles
Address: 401 D St #403, Boston
Price: $$
More Hotels Near Boston Cruise Terminal
We’ve got even more options when it comes to staying in a hotel near the port before or after a cruise vacation.
Harborside Inn
The Harborside Inn is a laid back hotel in Boston’s Financial District next to the Aquarium and metro station. Modern rooms have a 55” TV with HBO and a DVD player with free movie library. Some rooms overlook the sky-lit atrium and courtyard. There’s a lounge and business center but no parking onsite.
Distance from cruise port:1.7 miles
Address: 185 State St
Price: $$
Yotel
Yotel Boston offers accommodation a short taxi ride from Boston cruise port. From its Seaport District location, enjoy superb views from the rooftop terrace before dining in the restaurant. Quiet comfortable rooms are designed with chic modern furnishings but there’s no tea/coffee facilities.
Distance from cruise port: 1.1 miles
Address: 65 Seaport Blvd
Price: $$
Boston Park Plaza
Located in Boston’s Theater District, Boston Park Plaza offers luxurious public and guest rooms in a central location for entertainment and nightlife. Just 350m from Boston Common, it has comfortable rooms with a bed, seating area and flatscreen TV with streaming capabilities.
Distance from cruise port: 2.2 miles
Address: 50 Park Plaza, Boston
Price: $$
Hotel Commonwealth
The Hotel Commonwealthgoes above and beyond to welcome guests for luxurious pampering. Guest suites are spacious and beautifully furnished with space for relaxing and sleeping. Complimentary coffee, snacks and a high-end restaurant onsite.
Distance from cruise port: 3.6 miles
Address: 500 Commonwealth Ave, Fenway Kenmore
Price: $$$
Intercontinental Hotel
Just 1km from Boston Common, the InterContinental Hotel is a modern, high-rise hotel with beautifully furnished rooms and superb service. Enjoy stunning city views from the comfy bed. Indoor pool, garden, restaurant, and spa.
Distance from cruise port: 1.4 miles
Address: 510 Atlantic Ave
Price: $$$
The Revolution Hotel
Close to Boston Common, the Revolution Hotel is a modern well appointed 3-star hotel with air-conditioning, a gym and restaurant. Close to the metro station and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Breakfast is available before you leave for the cruise port.
Distance from cruise port: 2.7 miles
Address: 40 Berkeley St
Price: $$
We hope you’ve found your perfect hotel near Boston cruise port and have an amazing trip!
FAQs
What’s the best hotel to book for a Boston cruise?
The DoubleTree Hilton Hotel Downtown is an excellent hotel for cruisers. Close to the attractions of Boston Common and Downtown, it is just two miles from Boston cruise port.
What’s the truly closest hotel near the Boston cruise port?
The closest hotel to Boston cruise port is Homewood Suites by Hilton. It’s right on the waterfront and just a 5-minute walk to the cruise terminal. It shares the building with Hampton Inn, another good hotel option for cruisers.
Guests aboard Carnival Sunrise are receiving partial refunds of their cruise fare due to a failure of the air conditioning system onboard that has created excessive temperatures far above expected levels. Onboard technicians have been working on the issue, and refunds will vary based on temperatures recorded in guests’ staterooms.
Carnival Sunrise Air Conditioning Issues
While sailing in the Caribbean at the end of July, the 101,509-gross ton Carnival Sunrise has suffered repeated air conditioning issues that have created excessively hot areas of the ship, including in some guest staterooms.
The ship’s onboard technicians have worked around the clock to correct the issue, but only with limited success. Because of this, Carnival Cruise Line is offering partial refunds to guests in impacted cabins.
“While our shipboard and shoreside technical teams were able to complete the work and the overall temperature on board has lowered, we recognize that the temperature in your stateroom has not been at the desired level,”a letter given to impacted guests reads.
“We understand the impact this has had on your vacation. So, along with our apologies, for each day your stateroom temperature was above the ideal range, we are extending a 50% refund of your cruise fare.”
Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line
Refunds are being issued as onboard credits to guests’ Sail & Sign accounts, and are based on the base cruise fare only, not port taxes, fees, or onboard purchases such as drink packages, Wi-Fi, or specialty dining.
Furthermore, refunds are only calculated based on the days where the measured stateroom temperature was too high and may be different for guests in different staterooms.
Carnival Cruise Line provided Cruise Hive with the following statement on the situation:
“The extreme heat and record-setting ocean temperatures have put added stress on air conditioning systems on land and sea, and our technical teams are keeping a close eye on our ships to make sure our guests are comfortable.“
“Carnival Sunrise has experienced an air conditioning issue that has affected a limited number of staterooms and some of the public areas of the ship. Our shipboard and shoreside teams have worked as quickly as possible to resolve the issue and have been able to address the higher temperatures in most of the affected areas. We have been in direct communication with the guests affected to address the impact on their cruise.“
Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador John Heald has also commented on the air conditioning issues experienced not just by Carnival Sunrise, but on several ships.
“I have seen and answered many questions and concerns about the air conditioning on board some of our vessels,”Heald said.“Extreme heat and record-setting ocean temperatures have placed added stress on our air conditioning system which is affecting the temperature in some areas of some of our ships. I promise that our engineering teams and shoreside beards are doing all they can to rectify this.”
Photo Credit: Eric Glenn / Shutterstock
The most recent sailing of Carnival Sunrise where refunds have been confirmed is a 5-night Western Caribbean voyage that departed Miami on Monday, July 24, 2023. The ship visited Jamaica and Grand Cayman before returning to Miami on Saturday, July 29.
Water temperatures in that sailing region are recorded from 75-86 degrees Fahrenheit (24-30 Celsius). While the ship was visiting both Ocho Rios, Jamaica on July 26, and Georgetown, Grand Cayman on July 27, the air temperatures were in the low 90s Fahrenheit (32-33 Celsius).
At this time of year, average high temperatures in both Jamaica and Grand Cayman are typically in the mid- to upper-80s, making this summer hotter than normal.
Keeping Cool Onboard
It is not unusual for different areas of a large cruise ship to have temperature fluctuations based on ventilation, air flow, outside doors, whether that part of the ship may be shaded, and other factors.
Many cruise guests bring small fans onboard to promote better air circulation in staterooms, and opening balcony doors can also provide a cooling breeze under the right conditions. If guests do not bring a fan onboard, a limited number of fans may be available to request from stateroom attendants.
Carnival Cruise Line Balcony Stateroom
On the sunny side of a ship, closing curtains can help cut the sun’s rays and prevent excess overheating.
Staying hydrated, enjoying an ice cream cone, taking advantage of the ship’s pools, or finding public areas with stronger air conditioning are all options for remaining cool and relaxed.
Carnival Sunrise History
It is important to note that Carnival Sunrise has a history of technical challenges. The ship is the former Carnival Triumph, which became notorious in 2013 after an engine room fire resulted in a loss of power and propulsion, stranding the ship at sea for several days.
Carnival Triumph also reported power loss issues in 2010, 2014, and 2017.
The ship underwent a $200 million refurbishment in 2019 in Cadiz, Spain. The renovations were so extensive that the vessel was renamed Carnival Sunrise and became the second ship of the Sunshine class, after Carnival Sunshine (formerly Carnival Destiny). In 2021, Carnival Victory was similarly refit to become Carnival Radiance.
Holland America Line is set to raise prices on specialty dining venues fleet-wide, with increases ranging from just 12% to a 60% increase on one specific luxury item.
At the same time, two extra fees are being discontinued, while all these changes will be implemented in early September, depending on the vessel.
Specialty Dining Prices to Increase on All Holland America Ships
Prices at three popular specialty dining venues across the Holland America Line fleet will be increasing after September 1. The cruise line has posted increases for Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind, and Rudi’s Sel de Mer, with different increases on different menu items.
The pricing changes are due to premium pricing in today’s market, and striving to remain competitive with similar restaurants aboard other cruise lines and on land.
“We regularly evaluate our produce offerings, service experience, costs, and efficiency,”Holland America Line said.“To remain competitive in what we offer and continue to provide a premium product, we have adjusted restaurant cover prices which are aligned with industry competitor pricing and still offer an excellent value.”
Rudi’s Sel de Mer (Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock)
The price increases range from a low of 12% on the dinner cover charge for Rudi’s Sel de Mer – from $49 to $55 – and 18% on the lunch cover charge at Pinnacle Grill – from $15 to $19, to much higher increases on specific items.
For example, the 16 ounce, dry-aged Delmonico steak at Pinnacle grill will now be increasing from $18 to $25, an increase of 39%, while the lobster available at Tamarind, the cruise line’s Asian specialty restaurant, will increase from $20 to $28, a 40% increase.
The largest increase, however, is to the caviar available at both Pinnacle Grill and Rudi’s Sel de Mer. From the current price of $50, the luxury indulgence will increase to $80 at both venues, an increase of 60%.
Other items with price increases include the dinner cover charge at Pinnacle Grill ($39 to $46; +18%); 12 ounce lobster at Pinnacle Grill ($15 to $19; +27%); dinner cover charge at Tamarind ($29 to $35; +21%); and the Fruit de Mer at Rudi’s ($25 to $32; +28%).
Bookings made for these specialty restaurants prior to September 1 will remain at the lower prices.
Prices Increasing From September 1
Each ship in the Holland America Line fleet will institute the increased prices in early September, based on each vessel’s next turnaround after September 1.
Four ships will increase prices from September 2, 2023: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Oosterdam, and Zuiderdam. Four more ships will follow the next day, September 3: Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam, and Zaandam.
Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia / Shutterstock
On September 6, Nieuw Statendam and Volendam will increase the specialty dining prices, while the line’s newest ship, Rotterdam, will be the last to increase prices, instituting the higher rates from September 9, 2023.
To be clear, no ship will increase prices in the middle of any sailing – the new prices will only take effect on the first embarkation date after Friday, September 1, 2023.
While the price increases will be unwelcome extra fees to many guests who enjoy the specialty dining restaurants, the charges are consistent with increasing fine dining restaurant prices industry-wide, not only for cruise lines, but for all restaurants.
Two Fees Being Removed
While price increases can seem shocking, guests who enjoy the “ultimate steakhouse at sea” of Pinnacle Grill will be pleased to note that two surcharges are being discontinued at the same time other prices are increasing.
From the same date of the price increases, there will no longer be a $7 surcharge for an extra appetizer, nor will there be a $15 surcharge for an extra entrée. Those fees are being removed completely.
The extra entrée charges in Tamarind ($10) and Rudi’s Sel de Mer ($15), however, are remaining, but without any change in current pricing.
Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador John Heald recently commented on bringing magnets onboard, noting that not ALL magnetic items are necessarily permitted.
The concern has arisen following a photo posted from a Carnival stateroom showing a home theater projector setup, complete with a ceiling-mounted projector and a screen attached to the cabin wall.
Not All Magnets Welcome
Many cruise travelers bring different types of magnets onboard for storage and organization in their staterooms, but it turns out that not every type of magnet is permitted, as some Carnival Cruise Line guests learned recently.
In a picture circulating online, guests in an interior Carnival stateroom – identifiable by the wall trim and bedside lamps – have set up an impromptu movie theater, complete with a magnet-mounted projector attached to the ceiling, a white screen on the wall, and cords secured by additional magnetic hooks so they aren’t dangling.
Despite the obvious care and ingenuity taken with the setup, such installations are still not permitted. “We do allow magnets on board but ummmm, not for this,” John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador, commented.
While it may seem that such a setup would be no problem, there are safety concerns with such suspended equipment. “Ship moves, something falls on head of the guest or cabin attendant plus the fire safety issues,”Heald explained.
Carnival Cruise Cabin
In the photo, the rear of the projector is just inches from the stateroom’s smoke detector, which could cause an accidental alert if the sensor detected heat or ventilation discharge from the projector.
Furthermore, if any of the magnets were to loosen, the equipment could fall on the guests or on the cabin attendant, causing serious injuries.
The positioning of the equipment might also interfere with the ship’s sprinkler operation, if there were an emergency that activated the sprinkler system.
It should be noted that neither magnets nor home projector equipment are on Carnival Cruise Line’s prohibited items list at this time. Some similar items, such as “satellite disks, routers, and other internet-related equipment” as well as “boom boxes/large radios” are not permitted onboard.
The prohibited items policy also states that “Digital Cameras/Camcorders, DVDs/VCRs, USB sticks, iPods, Nintendo/X-Box Play Units cannot be used with the TV in the guest stateroom or suite as the connection ports are disabled.”
Guest Reaction
Experienced cruisers have had mixed reactions to the traveling movie theater. Many guests understand the desire for a larger viewing screen, or else to have access to more movies than may be available on the cruise line’s limited television stations or through sometimes inadequate Wi-Fi streaming services.
Such a setup could also be great for kids who may need a quiet space to chill with their favorite movies or cartoons, or just for a relaxing area to watch a movie, order room service, and enjoy a lazy day at sea.
Other travelers have expressed thoughts that such equipment would take up too much room in the luggage, take too long to set up properly, or simply be of limited use when there are so many other activities – including Seaside Theater dive-in movies – available onboard.
Many guests have expressed a desire for greater channel availability on in-stateroom televisions, or else for more movies to be on offer in cabins. This may not be possible, however, due to licensing agreements as well as satellite reception for different channels and networks.
Magnets on Cruise Ships
Small magnets, magnetic hooks, or magnetic clips can be a great travel accessory, even if cruisers aren’t so creative as to put together an in-stateroom theater. Depending on the magnet style, hook or clip size (if applicable), or strength, they can be used for:
Adding fast hanging spots for hats, bags, belts, lanyards, necklaces, etc.
Hanging larger pocket storage organizers to store small items.
Keeping curtains closed to darken the room for better sleep.
Holding back a flapping shower curtain for more bathroom space.
Hanging celebration decorations or small party lights, including door decorations.
Impromptu drying space for swimwear, wet socks, etc.
Holding daily newsletters, shore excursion tickets, and other papers.
Have you brought magnets onboard a cruise? What do you use them for? Share your own ingenuity on the Cruise Hive boards!
Royal Caribbean began notifying guests booked on cruises to the Bahamas that they can expect to see changes in their port charges, if their departure date is on or after January 1, 2024. New tax rates will take effect that day, after the Bahamian government approved the new policy in June.
Tax Increase Amounts Will Vary By Itinerary
Royal Caribbean issued a “Bahamas Tax Update” to booked guests, explaining that the Bahamas is implementing changes to its departure tax amounts for all cruise guests visiting the destination.
Royal Caribbean says the tax amount will change from $1 to $14, depending on the itinerary length. The update advises each guest that the line will be updating their reservation with the new amount.
It adds that adjusted taxes and fees will reflect on the booking before the final payment due date, and displays the adjusted tax amounts that the guest must pay.
Royal Caribbean Passengers in the Bahamas (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)
“Bookings are being updated in phases based on the sailing date. There is nothing for you to do, we just wanted to keep you informed. We realize this is an unexpected charge and apologize for any inconvenience,” Royal Caribbean’s notice to guests says.
Earlier this week, Royal Caribbean sister line Celebrity Cruises sent out similar notices to its booked guests, advising them of the new tax rates. Other cruise lines with ships calling at the ports of Nassau, Freeport, and Bimini, and at the lines’ various private islands in the Bahamas, are likely to follow suit.
In Celebrity Cruises’ case, guests are reporting variations in the new fees being levied, with some seeing increases of just a few cents or dollars, while others are incurring higher costs.
The tax hikes vary widely due to several factors, including the number of ports a ship will visit in the Bahamas during one itinerary, whether a private island will be visited, and how long a ship will remain in port.
Port charges are always subject to change, since the cruise lines publish itineraries, fares, and fees months and sometimes years ahead of departure date.
How The New Tax Structure Works
The tax increases and the introduction of two new taxes were announced by the Bahamas in June and are contained in the country’s Passenger Tax Amendment Bill 2023.
Under the new structure, the current $18 per passenger departure tax will rise to $23 for guests whose ships leave from Nassau, Freeport, and Bimini. The increase rises to $25 per passenger for those whose ships depart the country from a private island without calling at another Bahamas port.
Photo Credit: Joni Hanebutt / Shutterstock
This tax change would affect many cruisers, since all of the major cruise lines operate private islands in the Bahamas, and itineraries sometimes bypass the main ports. On short cruises, a private island may be the only port call on an itinerary.
Besides the departure tax changes, the bill created a $5 tourism environment tax and a $2 tourism enhancement tax on all cruisers arriving or departing the destination. All of the tax hikes originally were to take effect on July 1, 2023, while the new environment and tourism enhancement taxes were to begin on January 1, 2024.
However, the Bahamian government, in late June, just days before the new levies were to begin, decided to postpone the departure tax increases to next year, meaning that all of the tax hikes and the two new taxes will be charged starting January 1, 2024.
With the new cruise tax structure in place, the Bahamian government projects $145 million in annual revenue, up from $50 million expected in the current fiscal year.
Bahamas One of the Busiest Ports
The cruise industry delivers millions of travelers to the Bahamas each year, with the country’s biggest port located in its capital, Nassau. The port, which in May 2023 unveiled Phase 1 of its multi-year redevelopment plan, can accommodate six cruise ships simultaneously, including three Icon or Oasis-class ships.
Nassau set a cruise passenger record in February 2023, welcoming 28,554 guests in one day. Port officials expect that 4 million cruise guests will transit through Nassau this year.
Royal Caribbean International has released another episode of its insider “Making an Icon” series, this time examining just how the distinctive Royal Promenade has been reimagined for Icon of the Seas. This includes a reveal of the purpose of The Pearl, a mysterious structure that has been baffling cruise fans for months.
Latest Icon of the Seas Insider Look
Royal Caribbean is taking cruise fans right to the heart of the upcoming Icon of the Seas with Episode 11 of “Making an Icon” – “Creating Royal Promenade.” The central space is the hub of the ship’s activity and offers something for guests of all ages to enjoy.
Deliberately designed as a central gathering place, the Royal Promenade is a horizontal atrium with dining, lounges, entertainment venues, and much more. You can watch a full video about the Royal Promenade below:
“The Royal Promenade is a classic with Royal Caribbean and has evolved significantly,”said Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean.“It’s an amazing hub for the entire community on board the ship.”
The unique layout first debuted with the Voyager-class vessels in 1999, and has gotten larger, more elaborate, and more detailed with each successive class of ships. Now, Icon of the Seas introduces the next generation of the Royal Promenade.
“You’re going to see a larger, wider, longer, higher Promenade that’s going to have a lot more experiences,”said Jason Liberty, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.
New Promenade Features on Icon of the Seas
Aboard Icon of the Seas, the 362-foot long, two-deck Royal Promenade will feature updated venues and new spaces. A total of 15 restaurants, bars, and lounges are connected to the Royal Promenade, including popular guest favorites such as Sorrento’s, the Schooner Bar, comedy club, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar, and more.
Icon of the Seas Royal Promenade
One exciting new addition to the Royal Promenade is the first-in-fleet Dueling Pianos bar, where high-energy performances with a musically competitive flair will delight guests of all ages.
Another new bar exclusive to Icon of the Seas is the 1400 Lobby Bar, which pays tribute to the workers who built the vessel. The number 1400 is the construction identifier of the ship’s hull, and will be remembered and celebrated at the new bar where guests can enjoy a varied menu, from tropical drinks to classic cocktails.
Icon of the Seas Royal Promenade
Anchoring the aft of the Royal Promenade is Absolute Zero, largest ice arena at sea with more than 2,870 square feet of ice. Not only will the space host the cruise line’s mesmerizing ice shows, but it will also offer skating opportunities for all guests to enjoy and will convert to a laser tag arena for more high-energy fun.
The most notable feature of Icon of the Seas‘ Royal Promenade is a first for any ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet – floor-to-ceiling views that bring immense light and an even great sense of space into the interior of the ship. This was an intense engineering feat that required new changes to the ship’s superstructure, resulting in The Pearl.
Revealing The Pearl
Marine engineers, naval architects, and designers helped bring The Pearl to life. This three-deck high, midship superstructure spherical support stretches from Deck 5 up to the Central Park on Deck 8.
“When guests walk onboard they will see a massive structure that we call The Pearl,”said Jennifer Goswami, Director of Product Development for Royal Caribbean.“They may not know what it is, but the scale of it alone is enough to take your breath away.”
Speculation has been rampant about The Pearl for more than a year since the sphere-shaped structure was mounted onto Icon of the Seas, with wide-ranging ideas for what it may be, from an ice bar to a planetarium. At 46 feet (14 meters) tall, 50 feet (15.3 meters) in diameter, and 175 metric tons (385,809 pounds) in weight, The Sphere is a lot to speculate about.
Icon of the Seas Royal Promenade
“The Pearl is the most quintessential example of form meets function on Icon,”said Goswami.“We knew we wanted ocean views, and this large structure within the center line of the ship is what allowed us to do that. Once we figured that out, we started to have fun with it.”
More than just a structural support, The Pearl is a multi-sensory, immersive structure featuring 3,000 kinetic panels and integrated lighting to create a sense of water and light through movement and reflections.
“It’s beautiful, it’s artistic, it’s incredibly creative,”said Bayley.“There is nothing else like it on the planet.” Adjacent to The Pearl is The Pearl Cafe on Deck 6, offering specialty coffees, pastries, sandwiches, and gourmet desserts.
Now, finally, we know The Pearl is a key component of the ship’s structural support, sure to become a focal point of the revitalized and expanded Royal Promenade.
Set Sail With Icon of the Seas
Icon of the Seas remains under construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. Construction began with the ship’s steel-cutting in June 2021, and the hull was complete in January 2023 as the immense, 250,800-gross ton ship was floated out for the first time.
Icon of the Seas Sea Trials (Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean)
In June 2023, the ship aced its first set of sea trials, and finishing details continue to be put in place as the 20-deck vessel nears completion ahead of its January 2024 debut.
Icon of the Seas will be homeported from Miami, Florida, offering 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages and welcoming as many as 7,600 guests per sailing. An international crew of more than 2,300 team members will be onboard to ensure that all travelers enjoy a truly iconic vacation with all the new and impressive ship has to offer.
