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Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Breaks Transatlantic Crossing Record

Robert McGillivray
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Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Breaks Transatlantic Crossing Record

Considering that transatlantic voyages sailed with a few thousand people onboard at most just a hundred years ago, it is pretty remarkable that Symphony of the Seas just arrived in Europe carrying more than 7,000 people onboard. 

After completing a transatlantic voyage that departed Miami on March 9, the Oasis-class cruise ship became the ship carrying the most people onboard during a completed transatlantic voyage in peacetime. 

Symphony of the Seas Breaks Atlantic Crossing Record

With 7,604 people on board, which includes 5,350 passengers and 2,224 crew members, Symphony of the Seas arrived in Malaga, Spain, on March 19, completing a voyage across the Atlantic that will enter the history books. 

The Oasis-class cruise ship is now the world record holder for the vessel carrying more people across the Atlantic Ocean than any other vessel in history in peacetime. After visiting Malaga on March 19 and Valencia today, March 20, Symphony of the Seas is scheduled to complete the 12-day cruise and arrive in Barcelona, Spain, on March 21.

The 228,081 gross tons Symphony of the Seas, built in 2018, was the world’s largest cruise ship between 2018 and 2022. She will go into dry dock in Cadiz and undergo routine maintenance and class work at the shipyard. 

Symphony of the Seas will resume operations on April 16 with a series of seven-night cruises in the Western Mediterranean, departing from Barcelona every Sunday. Ports of call include Palma De Mallorca, Marseille, La Spezia, Civitavecchia, and Naples. 

The season in Europe will be relatively long for Symphony of the Seas. The cruise ship will be sailing in the western Mediterranean through October 29 this year. 

Symphony of the Seas isn’t the All-Time Record Holder

While impressive, the transatlantic record set by Symphony of the Seas is not the all-time record for a cruise ship crossing the Atlantic Ocean. In July 1943, the Cunard Line ocean liner Queen Mary set the record for a crossing of the Atlantic carrying 16,683 crew members and troops on a single passage.

RMS Queen Mary
Photo Credit: Khairil Azhar Junos / Shutterstock

During the second world war, Queen Mary sailed a massive 765,429 military personnel between the United States and the United Kingdom. Due to her tremendous efforts, it was later noted by Sir Winston Churchill that Queen Mary and her sister Queen Elizabeth had shortened the war efforts considerably:

Sir Winston Churchill: “Built for the arts of peace and to link the old world with the new, the queens challenged the fury of Hitlerism in the battle of the Atlantic. Without their aid, the day of final victory must unquestionably have been postponed.”

Nine Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships in Europe in 2023 

Royal Caribbean is placing a lot of importance on Europe this summer, with no less than nine of its cruise ships based in the Mediterranean, the UK, and Western Europe this summer. 

Besides Symphony of the Seas, this will be Anthem of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, and Jewel of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean The Key
Photo Credit: EQRoy / Shutterstock

Anthem of the Seas will be based in Southampton, England, offering seven-night cruises to Spain and France, or the Norwegian Fjords. 

Odyssey of the Seas returns to Rome, Italy, offering seven- to nine-night cruises from Rome to Naples, the Greek islands, and Turkey, as well as 12-night Holy Land sailings, which includes calls in Limassol, Cyprus; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; and Jerusalem, Israel.

Serenade of the Seas will sail 8-night itineraries to the Western Mediterranean, 12-night cruises to the Greek Isles, and 5-night sailings to Italy and France from Barcelona. Explorer of the Seas sails from Ravenna, Italy, on seven-night cruises to Olympia, Greece; Kotor, Montenegro, and Chania, Crete.

Brilliance of the Seas sails from Rome, Ravenna, Athens, and Barcelona on a variety of itineraries. Rhapsody of the Seas will operate from Haifa, Israel, and Limassol, Cyprus, on a series of cruises between four and seven nights to Turkey, Israel, and Greece. 

Sailing on cruises around Western and Northern Europe are Jewel of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas from Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Copenhagen, Denmark, and Stockholm, Sweden.

Another Carnival Cruise Director Promoted to Fleet Position

Melissa Mayntz
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Another Carnival Cruise Director Promoted to Fleet Position

Carnival Cruise Line has announced the second popular cruise director to be promoted to the position of “Fleet Cruise Director” to oversee the line’s entire cadre of cruise directors. Chris “Donkey” Salazar will be the second person with this new title, and the position will include training operations and other work aboard multiple ships.

Two Cruise Directors Promoted

The second employee promoted to the Fleet Cruise Director position has been revealed as Christopher Salazar, a long time, popular cruise director on multiple Carnival ships.

This followed the cruise line’s January announcement that Mike Pack was the first to be promoted to “Fleet Cruise Director.” Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador John Heald announced the two promotions, with congratulations for both Pack and the as-yet-unannounced second cruise director for their amazing work.

Carnival Cruise Line Fleet Cruise Director
Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line

“I would like to add my congratulations to Mike Pack who along with one other Cruise Director has been promoted to Fleet Cruise Director,” Heald said. “[They] will be responsible for working with and assisting all the current group of wonderful Cruise Directors and will help train new CDs.”

Meet Chris “Donkey” Salazar

Salazar has been with Carnival Cruise Line since November 2008, serving on a number of vessels, including as cruise director aboard Mardi Gras, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Glory, Carnival Liberty, and other ships. He has been recognized as “Team Member of the Month” several times, and is always a positive force not only for cruise guests, but also for all crew members.

Salzar embraced the nickname “Donkey” early in his Carnival career when a young guest innocently commented that Salazar’s big ears and teeth had a resemblance to the popular Shrek animated character. Salazar loved the nickname and has made it his own with his quirky, vibrant personality.

The Australian-born natural entertainer is an energetic, colorful personality (with the outfits to match) and a favorite cruise director for many guests, who will be sad to learn he will no longer be assigned to a single vessel. Many frequent cruisers will select specific voyages in order to sail with their favorite cruise directors.

“Hey Carnival family, so this will be my last contract as Cruise Director,” Salazar said when announcing his new position. “I’m very proud and happy to say that I have been promoted to Fleet Cruise Director. A massive thank you to everyone one for the love and support over the last 14 years and so excited for what the future will bring.”

What Will Fleet Cruise Directors Do?

While cruise directors are well known for leading onboard events such as dance parties and evening performances, as well as interacting with crew members and facilitating all entertainment on a vessel, what will a fleet cruise director do?

The newly created position is intended to help guide the training for new cruise directors and to assist with entertainment operations across the entire Fun Ship fleet, rather than remaining assigned to a single cruise ship.

Read Also: How Much Does a Cruise Director Make?

Mike Pack on Mardi Gras
Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line

The overall role is sure to be defined in part by how both Pack and Salazar embrace their new duties. Some of the responsibilities are obvious, such as conducting training for cruise directors and entertainment staff, including each ship’s “Fun Squad” members who host trivia contests, line dance lessons, deck games, and more.

Other fleet cruise director duties are likely to include participating in product and event development, such as new game show or Lido Deck game options, as well as interacting for guest relations and safety, crew morale, mentoring staff, and more.

It is also likely that the new fleet cruise directors will make appearances at notable events, such as naming new ships, visiting new ports of call, land-based conferences or award ceremonies, or opening newly constructed cruise terminals.

While no announcements have yet been made about what sailings on which ships either Pack or Salazar may participate in, guests are sure to find them onboard here and there throughout the Carnival fleet for amazing and memorable voyages.

Norwegian Cruise Line Announces a Huge Leadership Change

Robert McGillivray
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Norwegian Cruise Line Announces a Huge Leadership Change

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has announced significant changes to its executive leadership team, with Harry J. Sommer set to become the new President and Chief Executive Officer of the company, effective July 1, 2023. 

Sommer will replace the current CEO and President, Frank Del Rio, who has decided to retire and step down from his position and the board of directors effective June 30. The company also announced that David J. Herrera would be Norwegian Cruise Line’s new President, effective April 1, 2023. 

Major Changes at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, the parent company of Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, has announced some major changes in its executive leadership team. 

Harry J. Sommer, the current President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line, will become the next President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, effective July 1, 2023. David J. Herrera, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Chief Consumer Sales and Marketing Officer, will be the cruise line’s new President, effective April 1, 2023.

Harry J. Sommer
Photo Courtesy: Norwegian Cruise Line

The changes come as Norwegian announced that its current President and CEO, Frank Del Rio, has decided to retire. This news surprised many since Del Rio had spent three decades in the cruise business and successfully led the company since 2015. Del Rio will resign as President and the Board of Directors effective June 30.

Harry Sommer, the new NCLH CEO, said the following: “David and I have worked closely together for almost a decade expanding NCL’s global presence and shaping its future. With over 25 years of robust corporate business experience and a strong financial, sales, marketing, and business development background, David is a key contributor to NCL’s success, and I am certain he will continue to guide the NCL brand on an accelerated path forward.”

David J. Herrera Appointed President of Norwegian Cruise Line
David J. Herrera Appointed President of Norwegian Cruise Line (Photo Courtesy: Norwegian Cruise Line)

As Norwegian Cruise Line’s President, David Herrera will be responsible for the overall strategic vision and business plan execution for the brand.

David Herrera: “I am honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead the passionate and incredible team at NCL, as well as to continue to work alongside Harry and our stellar leadership group to build on our strong momentum. It is going to be another milestone year for us as we continue the Prima Class rollout, and I am looking forward to leading our team and guests along this exciting journey.”

Strong Leadership At NCLH As Company Looks to the Future

David Herrera is currently NCL’s Chief Consumer Sales and Marketing Officer and has been with NCLH since 2015. In his previous positions within the organization, he served as Senior Vice President of Brand Finance, Strategy, and Consumer Research, President of NCLH China, and was behind the military appreciation program. 

As Norwegian Cruise Line’s new President, Herrera will be responsible for the overall strategic vision and business plan execution for the brand.

Harry Sommer, the Chief Executive of Norwegian Cruise Line since 2020, will take over as the new CEO of NCLH effective July 1, 2023. With over 30 years of experience, he has played a significant role in itinerary planning, ship design, and onboard guest experiences. Sommer will work closely with Herrera during the transition period to ensure a smooth handover.

“I am incredibly humbled to succeed Frank as this iconic Company’s next President and CEO, and I’m grateful to have the unwavering support of him and the Board to lead the Company as we embark on the next chapter for our storied brands,” Sommer said. 

Del Rio, who spent three decades in the cruise business, has led the company since 2015. Del Rio guided Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings through the global operations pause between 2020 and 2021. He will remain as a senior adviser to the board through 2025.

Frank J. Del Rio
Photo Courtesy: Norwegian Cruise Line

In a statement, the current NCLH CEO and the president said, “My heartfelt gratitude goes out to our 39,000 team members around the globe whose innovation, tenacity, and collaboration have strengthened this Company and built the industry’s most passionate and loyal base of cruisers.”

This recent announcement of executive leadership changes at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is not the first time the company has undergone significant organizational changes. In December of last year, the company announced the appointment of new presidents for its Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises brands.

In addition to these leadership changes, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings also announced a 9% reduction in its shoreside workforce at the time, which the company called a “rightsizing” to align with its strategic priorities.

With all brands expanding further set to launch and new leadership in place, NCLH is well-positioned to continue its growth and success in the years to come. The company has also announced several design changes to the Prima class of ships, and Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises are launching new ships soon.

Can I Bring A Steamer On A Cruise – The Rules

Emrys Thakkar
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Can I Bring A Steamer On A Cruise – The Rules

Figuring out what to pack for a cruise can be difficult. What makes it more difficult is the list of items you can or can’t bring on board. 

If you want to keep your clothes fresh and pressed throughout your cruise, you may be wondering which list steamers are on. This article will tell you whether you can bring a steamer with you to prepare for your upcoming vacation.

In This Article…

What Is a Steamer?

A steamer is a device that uses hot steam to take wrinkles out of clothing. This device features a container to put the water in and a warmer to convert the water into steam. The steam typically comes from a small spout for easy application to your clothes.

Steamer on a Cruise
Photo Credit: Yarrrrrbright / Shutterstock

There are several types of steamers, including vertical steamers, which can hold more water, and handheld portable steamers. A hand steamer is what you would consider bringing on your cruise due to its portability, but are you actually allowed to bring one on board? Let’s find out.

Can You Bring a Steamer on a Cruise?

Simply put, you cannot bring a steamer on a cruise ship. This rule applies to the majority of mainstream cruise ships. Although they don’t all explicitly say that steamers are prohibited on their websites, it’s safe to assume that steamers are prohibited. The same goes for irons. If you try to bring a steamer on board, chances are that it will be confiscated. 

You can’t bring a steamer on a cruise ship because it’s a fire hazard. Cruise ships not only prohibit passengers from bringing many fire hazards items onto the ship, but they may not have them on board at all or only have them in minimum quantities. 

So does this mean that there’s no chance for you to have wrinkle-free clothing on a cruise ship? Not necessarily.

Do Cruise Ships Have Steamers?

While you can’t bring your own steamer onto a cruise ship, you may still be able to get your hands on one during your voyage. 

Cruise ships have a limited number of steamers for laundry services and housekeeping. Some cruise lines lend these steamers out to passengers for a limited time for you to use in your cabin. 

Cruise Line Steamer Rules

Here are some rules for specific cruise lines when it comes to steamers.

Cruise Ship Steamer
Photo Credit: Andrey Sayfutdinov / Shutterstock

Royal Caribbean International

Irons and steamers are prohibited items not allowed onto the ship under any circumstances. 

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line prohibits all electric and household appliances containing a heating element, including steamers. However, all Carnival ships provide facilities with ironing boards and irons so that you can still keep your clothes wrinkle-free. 

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises prohibits all items that generate heat or produce an open flame, which is what steamers fit under.

Disney Cruise Line

Steamers are prohibited on all Disney Cruises. However, they encourage passengers to take advantage of their full-service laundry service, with press-only service costing just half the price. 

Alternatives to Steamers On Cruise Ships

While steamers are very useful, they aren’t the only way to keep your clothes wrinkle-free on your cruise. Check out these alternatives to steamers that you can use on your next cruise.

Irons

Although both are prohibited on cruise ships, even if your ship doesn’t have steamers, they may still have irons available to guests.

You have a couple of options for finding an iron on your cruise. Firstly, you can contact housekeeping or guest services and see if you can borrow an iron. Alternatively, some cruise ships have self-laundry service, and you can sometimes find irons in the laundry rooms. 

Laundry Service

Another way to ensure your clothes are wrinkle-free is to take advantage of your cruise ship’s laundry service.

Do cruise ships have irons

Many cruise ships offer wash and press services for a charge or complementarity if you’re part of their rewards programs.  Depending on the cruise, this service can range from $3 to $10 per item, but the turnaround is usually quick, typically taking about 24 hours.

Wrinkle Release Spray

If you’re really a stickler for wrinkles and creases, you may want to bring onboard some wrinkle-release spray. These sprays continue to grow in popularity, as they allow you to remove wrinkles from your clothes without an iron or steamer. This is certainly a must-pack for every cruiser. 

Hanging Clothes in the Bathroom While Taking a Shower

Even though you aren’t allowed a steamer on a cruise, that doesn’t mean you can’t create steam.

One old-school alternative to steaming your clothes is to hang them up in the bathroom while you take a shower. This is an effective trick to get rid of minor wrinkles. It also takes less time than steaming would, which leaves you with more time to enjoy your vacation!

Pack Better

Finally, you can eliminate the need for a steamer if you pack strategically. Steam, press, and fold your clothes before packing them in your suitcase. Be sure not to overpack, yet keep your clothes compact enough that they don’t shift around during the commute.

As soon as you get to your stateroom, hang up all of your clothes to prevent them from wrinkling throughout your trip.

FAQs

Can I use a steamer in my stateroom?

If your cruise ship does lend out steamers, you may be able to use one in your stateroom. However, they may also request that you use the steamer in their laundry facilities for safety reasons. 

How do I access a steamer on a cruise?

To access a steamer on a cruise, ask your housekeeper whether they can lend you one. They may direct you to guest services to actually gain access to a steamer. Some cruise lines may have steamers in their self-service laundry facilities if applicable, but it’s more common for these facilities to have irons instead.

The Verdict: Can I Bring a Steamer on a Cruise?

To recap, you cannot bring a steamer on a cruise for safety reasons. However, alternatives, such as borrowing a steamer from the ship or using self-service laundry facilities, may be available.

Read Also: Do Cruise Ships Provide Towels?

One of the best options you can take advantage of is packing clothes that don’t wrinkle easily. After all, you are on vacation, and the last thing you want to worry about is laundry!

Drinking Ages on Cruise Ships: The Rules

Emrys Thakkar
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Drinking Ages on Cruise Ships: The Rules

Do you have a cruise coming up, but want to know if you’re at the minimum drinking age? Maybe you have a cruise planned and want to know whether your older kids will be able to join you for a cocktail. No matter the situation, knowing the drinking age on cruise ships is important.

In this article, you’ll learn the minimum age for drinking on cruise ships so you can properly plan your next vacation.

Table of contents

The legal drinking age on cruise ships varies. Factors influencing the set minimum ages include the specific ship you’re on and your departure and final destination.

In most areas of the world, the minimum drinking age is anywhere from 16 to 18, so it is possible to find a cruise that adheres to this minimum.

Bar on Cruise Ship
Bar on Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: petereleven / Shutterstock)

That said, you’ll notice that most cruise ships sailing from North America have a minimum drinking age of 21 years to abide by United States law. This is despite Mexico and some places in Canada having minimum drinking ages of 18 or 19.

Since the U.S. is in between these two countries, cruise lines choose to abide by the United States minimum. Let’s look at some of the minimum drinking ages for major cruise lines.

Age Requirements for Major Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Line

On all Carnival Cruise Line ships, passengers must be 21 years of age or older to be served alcohol on board, even in international waters. Carnival Cruise Line is one of the only cruise lines that does not allow drinking under the age of 21 under any circumstance.

Norwegian Cruise Line

On Norwegian Cruise Line, the drinking age requirement is 18 in international waters. No guest under 18 may possess or consume alcohol at any time. This means that on board their ships, you must be at least 18 years old to drink alcohol. If you break this rule – including parents who give alcohol to their children – you’ll face disciplinary action.

Norwegian Cruise Line Drinks
Norwegian Cruise Line Drinks (Photo Credit: Barbara Kalbfleisch / Shutterstock)

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean cruise ship drinking ages depend on where the ship departs from. The drinking ages are the following:

  • From North America or the Caribbean: 21
  • From Dubai, United Arab Emirates: 21
  • From South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand: 18

However, these minimum ages are not set in stone. Royal Caribbean reserves the right to raise the minimum drinking age on sailings based on local laws.

Princess Cruises

When sailing from North America, the minimum drinking age on Princess Cruises ships is 21 years. But, if you’re sailing from Europe, South America, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand on a Princess Cruise, the legal drinking age is 18.

Princess Cruises
Photo Credit: EWY Media / Shutterstock

Disney Cruise Line

The minimum drinking age on all Disney Cruise Line ships is 21. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For destinations departing from Europe, anyone 18 to 20 may have their parents sign an alcoholic beverage consent form, allowing them to consume alcohol while in an adult’s presence.

What’s more, on round trips from Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, and Brisbane, passengers 18 years old and older can consume alcohol without the presence or permission of an adult. 

Cunard

On most Cunard ships, the minimum drinking age is 18. The exception is when the ship is in U.S. waters and the minimum drinking age is 21.

Celebrity Cruises

The minimum drinking age on ships sailing from North America is 21. The minimum drinking age for remaining destinations is 18.

Drinking Age Exceptions on Private Islands

Some cruise lines have private islands as possible destinations and have different drinking age rules for private islands than they do for their ships. Here are some examples:

Cruise Private Island Drink
Cruise Private Island Drink (Photo Credit: mariakray / Shutterstock)
  • Norwegian Cruise Line: Guests must be 21 to possess or consume alcohol at the cruise line’s private destinations. 
  • Royal Caribbean International: No matter where the departure point is, on Royal Caribbean International ships, the minimum drinking age for private islands is 21. 
  • Celebrity Cruises: You must be 21 to consume alcohol at any of Celebrity Cruises’ private destinations.  
  • Holland America: The minimum drinking age for Holland America ships is 21.

Checking IDs on Cruise Ships

Don’t think all rules are thrown out the window on your cruise! If you look underage, cruise ships will check your ID when you ask for a drink. The same goes for when you’re entering spaces restricted to those of a certain minimum age. If you’re a minor, you may get a wristband indicating so.

Cruise Ship Bar
Cruise Ship Bar

For example, some cruise ships allow passengers as young as 18 into the casino, but you must be 21 to drink on the ship. Therefore, you may be given a wristband to indicate to the staff that you are underage. 

Drink Packages and Minors

Many cruise lines offer drink packages specifically for minors – meaning their packages account for no alcoholic beverages. For example, MSC Cruises has a drink package for minors that includes soft, energy, and coffee drinks. Celebrity Cruises also offers a Zero Proof package at $30 per person per day, which includes some delicious zero-proof cocktails for minors to enjoy alongside their parents.

FAQs

How much alcohol can you drink on cruise ships?

In theory, whether you get a drink package or purchase your drinks on the ship, you can drink as much alcohol on your cruise as you want. However, staff regularly monitor guests to ensure they are not consuming copious amounts of alcohol to the point where they become a danger to themselves and other passengers on the ship. Drinking responsibly is important to avoid ruining your vacation and that of others.

Can you bring your own alcohol on cruise ships?

Most major cruise lines allow you to bring a minimal amount of alcohol on the cruise ship during embarkment day. This is usually restricted to a bottle or two of wine and only wine. Anything more will be confiscated, and alcohol you purchase at different ports will be kept for you until the end of your cruise. Even if you bring alcohol on the ship, minors are still prohibited from drinking. You must abide by the cruise ship’s legal drinking age rules.

The Takeaway: Know Drinking Rules On Your Cruise

Drinking is one of the most fun parts of any cruise, but sticking to the rules is essential to maximize the experience. Knowing the drinking ages on cruise ships during your planning will ensure that everything goes as expected. 

If you’re under the drinking age of a particular cruise, you can still enjoy yourself and try out any specialty mocktails your ship might offer.

Carnival Cruise Line is First to Reach Massive Milestone

Robert McGillivray
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Carnival Cruise Line is First to Reach Massive Milestone

Carnival Cruise Line has achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first cruise line to embark 100 million guests since its first sailing in 1972. The announcement was made by Carnival President Christine Duffy, who boarded the Carnival Sunrise at PortMiami, where the cruise line was founded, to thank guests for choosing Carnival and making it the world’s most popular cruise line.

Carnival Cruise Line Welcomes 100 Millionth Guest

Carnival Cruise Line is the first-ever cruise line to welcome more than 100 million guests onboard its ships. 

The celebration was marked by the boarding of the 100 millionth guests, Debi and David Clifford, who were vacationing from Ohio with their family. Christine Duffy, the Carnival Cruise Line President, and the ship’s team members, led by Captain Luca Cherchi, welcomed them with fanfare taking photos to signify their place as “One in 100 Million.”

Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line

In a statement, Christine Duffy said: “We’re the first cruise line to meet this incredible mark of 100 million guests, and I believe it is a testament to the fun, inclusive atmosphere our valued guests and our extraordinary team members have created together on board our ships for the past 51 years.“

Carnival Cruise Line, the world’s largest cruise line, was founded in 1972 and celebrated its 50th birthday last year. Originally just a single ship, the Mardi Gras, the company has since expanded its fleet to 23. 

The 100 million guests milestone achieved by Carnival Cruise Line is not just impressive, but it also comes with some astounding statistics. To put it into perspective, 100 million guests are more than the combined population of California, Texas, and Florida, the cruise line’s three most popular homeport states. It also exceeds the populations of Canada, Australia, and Panama combined.

Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line

Additionally, among the 100 million guests, 167 individuals have sailed on more than 100 cruises, while 152,000 guests have spent more than 100 days onboard. In fact, there is even a five-year-old guest who has already accumulated 100+ cruise days. These incredible statistics showcase the popularity and loyalty of Carnival’s guests.

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

Carnival Cruise Line Ambassador John Heald expressed his gratitude, saying: “100 Million. That’s absolutely outstanding to think that since 1972 to 2023, we have had 100 MILLION passengers who became guests sail and have a massive dollop of FUN with us. We are so thankful, so grateful, and so thrilled that you and your families have and continue to sail with CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE.“

According to Statista, Carnival carried 7.7 million passengers in 2022, but that’s still behind the 13 million in 2019. the cruise line is now making a comeback following the global pandemic. Rival Royal Caribbean was just behind with 5.5 million passengers in 2022, and Norwegian Cruise Line at 1.66 million.

Carnival Cruise Line is Not Done Yet

Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet is expanding at an impressive rate, with three new ships set to join by the spring of 2024. Carnival Celebration, already a hit with guests, is currently sailing from Miami, offering a variety of exciting itineraries.

Carnival Jubilee Cruise Ship
Photo Courtesy: Meyer Werft

In May, the Carnival Venezia will make its debut, becoming the first Carnival ship to offer year-round cruises from New York. This will significantly expand Carnival’s offerings in the region, providing guests with even more options to explore the East Coast.

Later this year, the Carnival Jubilee, the third sister ship to Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, will join the fleet and set sail from Galveston, Texas. In the spring of 2024, the Carnival Firenze, a sister ship to Carnival Venezia, will begin offering year-round cruises from Long Beach, California. 

Whether sailing along the East Coast, the Gulf of Mexico, or the West Coast, guests can look forward to an unforgettable cruise vacation with Carnival.

Royal Caribbean’s New Development Faces Backlash

Robert McGillivray
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Royal Caribbean’s New Development Faces Backlash

Royal Caribbean recently announced it will open its new Royal Beach Club resort in 2025. The 17-acre destination experience will be located at the western end of Paradise Island in Nassau, The Bahamas. It will feature a combination of the island’s stunning beaches and the cruise line’s signature experiences. 

However, while everything seemed to be ready for the cruise line to start construction, the company is now receiving inquiries about its environmental mitigation plans from one of the biggest resorts in the world.

Environmental Concerns Voiced by Atlantis Resort

Royal Caribbean International plans to open a 17-acre destination experience, the Royal Beach Club, in Nassau, The Bahamas, in 2025. However, The Atlantis Resort in Nassau has now voiced its concern over the project’s environmental mitigation plans. 

According to the Tribune, The Atlantis’ senior vice-president of government affairs and special projects, Vaughn Roberts, confirmed the resort’s concerns over the proposed development of the western portion of Paradise Island in the Colonial Beach area.

Royal Caribbean's Bahamas Beach Club
Render Courtesy: Royal Caribbean

Atlantis says it’s concerned about how Royal Caribbean plans to mitigate any potential environmental concerns. In particular, the resort is concerned about how cruise lines have dumped waste in the oceans in the past:

Roberts expressed his concerns about dumping waste in the ocean by cruise lines, particular: “So we know that there are coral reefs there, we know that there has to be other environmental habitats there. So we just want to make sure it’s all done in a responsible way. Cruise lines have reports of dumping in the ocean and stuff. We’re not saying Royal Caribbean is guilty, but there have obviously been incidents in the past. We just haven’t seen enough of Royal Caribbean’s plans to know how they’re going to mitigate any risks.” 

The Bahamian government does not seem to be impressed by the concerns aired by Atlantis, instead the Deputy Prime Minister of Tourism, the honorable Chester Cooper, stated Royal Beach Club is still subject to environmental assessments:

Minister of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation, Chester Cooper: The Government of The Bahamas notes the concern of Atlantis regarding Royal Caribbean International’s proposed Beach Club on Paradise Island. In my official statement dated March 7, 2023 we stated that approval is subject to Environmental Impact Assessment and an Environmental Management Plan. That remains the case.

“The Department of Environment and Physical Planning and Ministry of Works are aware of the questions raised by Atlantis and I am satisfied that these questions will be addressed as a part of the normal process.”

On top of the environmental concerns, legal disputes are still ongoing between a Bahamian entrepreneur and the local government over how Royal Caribbean’s lease contract of Crown Land was procured.

The legal dispute between Bahamian entrepreneur Toby Smith, the Government, and Royal Caribbean centers on the two Crown Land parcels sought by Smith for his project. 

Smith received a letter of approval for the Crown Land lease over the two tracts from the acting director of the Department of Lands and Surveys in January 2020. 

However, the minister responsible for Crown Lands did not execute the necessary paperwork by applying his signature, as Royal Caribbean had rival designs on two of the Crown Land acres also sought by Smith for its own Royal Beach Club project.

Nassau Cruise Ships
Photo Credit: byvalet / Shutterstock.com

The chief justice has since ruled that Smith did not have a valid, legally binding lease from the Government for the two Crown Land parcels he was seeking for his project. 

As a Bahamian entrepreneur, Mr. Smith had consistently claimed that he was pushed aside to accommodate a major foreign investor, despite obtaining his approvals and legally binding Crown Land leases before Royal Caribbean did.

The ruling allows the cruise line to proceed with the Royal Beach Club, but the ongoing situation adds uncertainty to the project’s future and complicates matters for Royal Caribbean. They now must navigate concerns over their development’s environmental impact and any legal obstacles that may arise.

Reaction From Local Businesses

Despite the announcements from Royal Caribbean that the Royal Beach Club would be an excellent opportunity for local businesses, the general sentiment in Nassau seems to differ from that statement. 

Several business owners have been vocal about fearing that Royal Caribbean will draw business away from locals and focus purely on sales inside its resort. 

One local business owner said to the Tribune: “Royal Caribbean is going to suck business out of Paradise Island. The thing is nobody is going to want to stay on Paradise Island or even downtown, and Royal Caribbean is just going to take all of their guests to their side of the island. Lots of people are going to lose their jobs, too.”

This could very well be why the Atlantis Resort questioned Royal Caribbean’s plans. Day trips while in Nassau to the Atlantis are a popular way to spend the day in Nassau. Cruise ships are a huge money maker for the resort at $250 for an adult and $125 for kids for a day pass. 

If the biggest cruise ships in the world bring their guests to the Royal Beach Club instead of the Atlantis, it would mean a financial blow for the resort.

Can You Bring Food On a Cruise and How Much?

Emrys Thakkar
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Can You Bring Food On a Cruise and How Much?

A cruise is an exciting way to travel and escape your everyday life for a bit. The only downside to a cruise is figuring out what you can and cannot pack.

Cruise ships have a lot of restrictions when it comes to what you’re allowed onboard. From no irons to sharp objects, you want to pack smart to prevent having your items confiscated. But what are the rules when it comes to food? Can you bring food on a cruise?

Keep reading to learn the rules when it comes to bringing food on a cruise so that you can best prepare for your upcoming vacation.

In This Article…

Can You Bring Food On a Cruise?

Yes, you can bring food on a cruise, but only to a certain extent. You are permitted to bring non-perishable food onboard. For the most part, this food must be pre-packaged and processed. Here are examples of food items that you can bring onboard your cruise:

  • Granola bars
  • Bags of chips
  • Pre-packaged cookies
  • Packaged beef jerky
  • Packaged and sealed baby food and formula

Just make sure that these snacks are in their original packaging and unopened, or they may be confiscated. You cannot bring fruits, vegetables, or home-cooked meals onboard. If you try, they will be confiscated by the crew.

How Much Food Can You Bring on a Cruise?

While you can bring some non-perishable food on your cruise, that doesn’t mean there’s no limit to the quantity you can bring on. 

For the most part, cruise lines don’t provide exact limits on how much food you can bring on. However, cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line describe “limitations” on the quantity of food you can bring onboard without expressly saying what those limits are.

Lido Dining Food
Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive

Use your judgment to determine whether you’re following the cruise line’s guidelines. It should be a reasonable amount of snacks for yourself or the people in your party. In general, bringing a few snacks here and there won’t get you in trouble, but you may run into some problems if you have an entire checked bag full of snacks.  

Why Are There So Many Restrictions for Bringing Food on a Cruise?

There are two main reasons why bringing your own food onto the cruise ship is so restricted. 

The first has to do with international customs. Cruise ships make stops in multiple countries, and different countries have their own laws regarding what you can bring into the country. This is because you risk bringing foreign diseases and illnesses, which could be carried through food.

In the same respect, you risk getting other passengers onboard sick if you carry unpackaged food. Cruise ships are isolated, so if one passenger gets sick with something contagious, it can spread quickly.

Food on a Cruise Ship
photo Credit: El Greco 1973 / Shutterstock

Restrictions aside, being able to bring food on a cruise ship is excellent news for those who don’t want to go a week without their favorite snacks or for parents of picky eaters who request the same granola bars every day. Let’s check out specific food policies on popular cruise lines.

Different Cruise Line Policies for Food

To give you an idea of what to expect on your next cruise, here are some of the food policies of the most popular cruise lines.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean cruise passengers can bring non-perishable prepackaged food in limited quantities. They also allow you to bring select beverages on board.

Non-alcoholic beverages must be carried in your carry-on luggage on boarding day and must not exceed 12 standard cans, bottles, or cartons per room. Finally, Royal Caribbean allows milk and distilled water to be brought on for specific reasons, including infant, medical, or dietary use.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line allows passengers to bring pre-packaged, unopened, and ready-to-eat snacks. Homemade items and pre-cooked food are not allowed. Carnival Cruise Line also allows you to bring non-alcoholic beverages, but only in can form, and the cans must be in your carry-on.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises specifically lists prohibited items as perishable food, meat products, and food that requires refrigeration. You can bring a small amount of prepackaged snacks on board. Contact Celebrity Cruises to find out what the exact amount is. 

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is quite strict with their food and drink policy. Unlike other cruise lines, no drinks of any kind are permitted to be brought on board, including non-alcoholic drinks. In terms of food, the only restriction is no unsealed food items are allowed on board.

The Verdict: Don’t Go Overboard

To sum up, yes, you can bring limited quantities of food on a cruise, as long as it is non-perishable and pre-packaged. However, it’s essential to check with your cruise line before embarkation day to avoid getting any prohibited items confiscated.

Celebrity Cruises Adds Two Additional Sailings for New Ship

Donna Tunney
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Celebrity Cruises Adds Two Additional Sailings for New Ship

Celebrity Cruises has scheduled two preview sailings of its new Celebrity Ascent, allowing eager cruisers to get a sneak peek at the vessel even before her inaugural cruise in December 2023. The ship is the fourth in the line’s popular Edge class.

First-Look Sailings in November 2023 for Celebrity Ascent

Two preview cruises aboard Celebrity Cruises’ new-build Celebrity Ascent, now under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, have opened for bookings. Both sailings are roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades.

The first is a 4-night Western Caribbean cruise departing November 22, 2023, giving cruisers a Thanksgiving week getaway. The ship will call at Cozumel. The second preview sailing is a 3-night Bahamas cruise departing November 26, 2023, and calling at Nassau, Bahamas.

Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship
Photo Courtesy: Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises’ President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo said, “This ship is going to be beautiful beyond words – truly the embodiment of a relaxed luxury resort at sea – and I’m thrilled to be able to offer travelers a sneak peek of all that she offers.”

She added, “These sampler sailings will cement in our guests’ hearts that the experience onboard a Celebrity ship goes beyond being a traditional cruise line, and they will definitely leave them wanting more in the year ahead!”

The 3,260-guest Celebrity Ascent is a twin ship to Celebrity Beyond, which debuted in 2022. The line’s first Edge class ship was Celebrity Edge, which launched in 2018. The third in the class, Celebrity Apex, entered service in 2021.

Celebrity Ascent marked a construction milestone in late January 2023, when she was floated out of dry dock at the French shipyard.

Her maiden voyage is slated for December 3, 2023, from Port Everglades. The 7-night Western Caribbean cruise will call at St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Puerto Plata. Alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises will follow the inaugural voyage.

Western Caribbean itineraries include calls to Nassau, Bahamas, Cozumel, Mexico, and George Town in the Cayman Islands. Eastern Caribbean cruises will visit San Juan, Puerto Rico; Tortola in the British Virgin Islands; Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis.

Edge Class Amenities Onboard

Celebrity Ascent will feature the same amenities and experiences as the previous Edge class ships, including two-story villa staterooms, two-story martini-shaped hot tubs, and the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered bar that sits on the edge of the ship, among other innovations.

The ship will offer infinity plunge pools, private cabanas and a two-story Sunset Bar. Dining choices will feature the line’s popular Le Petit Chef Dinner Experience, Eden Restaurant, with dramatic three-story, floor-to-ceiling windows, and Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, serving global cuisine.

Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship
Photo Courtesy: Celebrity Cruises

Ship designers include the award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen; American designer Nate Berkus; the Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku; British architect Tom Wright, and Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud, creator of Le Voyage.

Brothers at the Helm

In January 2023, the line announced that in an industry first, two brothers, both veteran Celebrity Cruises’ officers with a combined 50 years of service to the cruise line, will co-captain Celebrity Ascent. Dimitrios Kafetzis and Tasos Kafetzis will each have three-month rotating assignments on the 140,600 gross ton ship.

Their appointments marked the second time Celebrity Cruises has made history on the bridge: The line in 2015 announced the selection of Kate McCue as captain of Celebrity Edge, making her the industry’s first female cruise ship captain.

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