Carnival Elation, the oldest vessel still sailing for Carnival Cruise Line, has completed dry dock enhancements and returned to guest service with the line’s new signature red, white, and blue livery hull colors.
This refreshment gives the ship a beautiful new look that complements the new onboard enhancements and refreshments that guests sailing from Jacksonville, Florida, will enjoy.
Carnival Elation Receives New Livery
Carnival Elation, which first set sail for the cruise line in April 1998, has finished dry dock upgrades that include not only enhancements to public spaces and general refreshment, but most notably, the new livery colors with a sleek red, white, and blue hull.
The new colors first debuted with Mardi Gras when the Excel-class vessel joined the Fun Ship fleet in July 2021, and has gradually been rolled out to additional ships as they have undergone drydock upgrades.
Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Paradise, sister ship to Carnival Elation and the only other remaining Fantasy-class vessel in the fleet, received the new livery in October 2021, the eighth ship to sport the new colors.
The new, patriotic colors were carefully chosen by the cruise line to represent its position as “America’s Cruise Line” and coordinate with the classic red, white, and blue whale tale funnels that are instantly recognizable on all Carnival ships.
Additional Upgrades
The fresh, new hull is not the only upgrade Carnival Elation has received during the dry dock, which lasted from January 21 through February 10, 2023.
The most significant change to the ship’s public spaces is the rebranding of Spa Carnival to the more luxurious Cloud 9 Spa, which has included a full refreshment of spa spaces as well as the installation of new steam and sauna rooms, perfect to help guests relax and rejuvenate.
Other general hotel maintenance and cosmetic enhancements were also completed, such as routine painting, new flooring, and minor repairs as necessary.
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz
Furthermore, several new accessibility features were added to allow more guests full access to the ship’s features. A pool lift was added to the Lido pool on deck 10, and ADA sections were added to pool bar counters.
Carnival Elation‘s last dry dock was in spring 2020, at which time other public spaces were rebranded to Carnival favorites, such as adding the JavaBlue Cafe, Cherry on Top, Alchemy Bar, and Bonsai Sushi Express venues to the ship, as well as adding additional staterooms in place of the Cole Port Club Lounge, which was relatively underused.
In total, the ship has received 10 dry dock renovations in her 25 years of service, ensuring that she always offers guests new and upgraded features, enjoyable spaces, and plenty of the cruise line’s signature fun.
Now Sailing From Jacksonville
Carnival Elation has now resumed passenger service from Jacksonville, Florida (JAXPORT), offering 4- and 5-night itineraries to The Bahamas. The first post-dry dock sailing departed on Saturday, February 11, 2023, a 5-night sailing.
The shorter cruises visit two ports of call, typically Freeport, Nassau, or Bimini, depending on the sailing date, with one Fun Day at Sea to enjoy all the 71,909-gross-ton ship has to offer.
The longer sailings are also visiting The Bahamas, but many of the 5-night sailings include Princess Cays on the itinerary – a private island destination for Carnival Corporation ships and a great way to enjoy the essence of the Caribbean in a more exclusive atmosphere.
Carnival Elation can welcome 2,190 guests at double occupancy, or as many as 2,697 passengers when fully booked with all berths filled. Onboard, guests have 11 decks to explore, and 900 international crew members provide excellent service for every oceangoing getaway.
The popular port of Skagway, Alaska is hoping to have completed the emergency mitigation work to minimize the risk of rockslides near the critical White Pass Railroad Dock by the time the summer sailing season opens in April. This could help ensure cruise ships are able to safely dock, and bring a record number of passengers to the iconic destination.
Skagway Repairs on Schedule for Cruise Season
During the summer of 2022, the White Pass Railroad Dock in Skagway, Alaska – an important dock where the largest cruise ships can safely berth – was damaged by a number of rockslides from the steep adjacent slope. The dock was completely shut down for a time for emergency measures to be put in place, but more permanent slope rehabilitation is necessary to minimize additional rockslide risks.
Now, much of the preliminary work is completed and Skagway mayor Andrew Cremata is expecting a full season with potentially a record-breaking number of cruise passengers, according to the Skagway News.
“Anyone who knows me will tell you, I am not much of an optimist, but I am a realist,”Cremata said.“I firmly believe that we will host a record number of cruise passengers in 2023. If not, we will be close.”
Photo Credit: Mark Mitford
After the first rockslide on June 23, 2022, which caused minor damage to Discovery Princess, an environmental consulting firm was hired to thoroughly examine the slope and recommend mitigation measures and emergency procedures to safeguard cruise ships and guests on other parts of the dock.
Full, long-term measures to improve the slope’s safety are estimated to cost $40 million (USD). The town has has applied for emergency grants from the federal government to help fund these essential projects.
Now, emergency measures are complete, and a plan is in place for ships to safely dock in 2023. Larger vessels, such as Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis-class ships and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakway-class vessels, will dock on the aft portion, but will use buses to move passengers off the pier.
“To achieve this, the rockslide area must meet highway rockfall safety standard,”explained Cremata.“Because the scaling is going so well, engineers believe this standard will be achieved.”
Photo Credit: Tim Mattison
Furthermore, Cremata explained that spotters will monitor the slope while buses are in use for an instant response if rock movement is detected.
“This is an extra safety protocol to ensure that passengers and dock workers aren’t at risk,”he said.
Ships docking on the forward portion of the dock will use tenders to move guests well out of the rockslide zone.
These two measures – buses and tendering – may slow down passenger movements slightly, and guests visiting Skagway should be patient as they move to and from their ships, understanding that these precautions are to ensure everyone’s safety.
Visiting Skagway
Skagway, located 100 miles (160 kilometers) north of the state’s capital, Juneau, is typically one of the most popular ports of call on Alaskan itineraries.
Nicknamed “Gateway to the Klondike,” the town of just 1,240 residents often hosts multiple cruise ships daily through the height of the summer cruise season, and is especially favored for the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad excursion and other top tours, stunning vistas, and fantastic wildlife.
The quaint downtown area is also great for souvenir shopping with many local retail outlets, including the famous Klondike Doughboy with delicious cinnamon-sugar dusted “fry bread” that visitors line up for.
Despite lower-than-typical ship occupancy at the beginning of the cruise season, as well as the dock problems that caused several ships to miss Skagway as a port of call, Klondike Doughboy owner Rocky Outcalt said the 2022 season was exceptional, and is looking forward to an even better 2023.
“I’ve hired full staff,”he said.“The ship schedule looks good. I’m sure ships will be full.”
Alaska remains a top summer sailing destination for cruise travelers worldwide, and many cruise lines are planning very busy seasons for 2023 and 2024. Princess Cruises, for example, will deploy nearly half its fleet to Alaska in 2024, and bookings for that year have recently opened.
A wide variety of cruise lines call on Skagway, including Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Disney Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Cunard Line, and more.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Bliss is scheduled to be the first cruise ship to visit Skagway for the 2023 season, spending a long day in port from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, as part of a 7-night roundtrip sailing from Seattle that will also call on Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria, with time cruising through scenic Glacier Bay.
Packing for a cruise can be stressful, especially when you don’t know what to expect. For example, it’s difficult to gauge how many articles of clothing you should bring, and it can be even more confusing if you’re unfamiliar with how cruise ship laundry works.
Well, you’ve come to the right place to eliminate this confusion. This article explains everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry to help you pack and prepare for your upcoming trip.
Many cruise ships have self-service laundry facilities on each deck, including washing machines, dryers, ironing and detergent. Passengers can also use the ship’s valet laundry services for a fee, which includes washing, pressing and dry cleaning. Alternatively, guests can hand wash and dry within their cabin.
Wash and Press Services or Dry Cleaning
The first option is the cruise ship’s wash and press service and dry cleaning. Most cruise ships offer this service for a fee. The prices for this service vary by the cruise line as well as the article of clothing.
How it works is you put your dirty clothes in a laundry bag (that the ship supplies) for housekeeping to take when they clean your stateroom. You can often find the price list for this service hung up in the cabin closet. You should receive your clean clothes either at the end of the day or the next day.
For example, Royal Caribbean charges a fixed price of $34.99 per laundry bag for wash and fold laundry service, allowing you to fit as much as possible into the bag.
Norwegian Cruise Line Valet Laundry Service (Photo Credit: James R. Martin / Shutterstock)
The benefit of this service is that you don’t have to spend any time on vacation doing laundry, which is the last thing most people want to be doing.
However, this can be expensive. For example, Carnival Cruise Line charges $5 to wash and press a single shirt. While some cruise lines offer promotional rates if you’re part of their loyalty program, the service is generally quite pricey and best reserved if you have a formal outfit that you need to be pressed.
There can often be unlimited laundry for guests booked in a suite or at one of the highest loyalty levels. World Cruises can also be found to include these services due to the length of the voyage.
Moreover, cruise ships generally do not assume liability for damaged or lost clothing, so you’ll be using these services at your own risk.
Self-Service Laundry
Self-service laundry is a much more affordable option offered by some cruise ships. The laundry facilities on a cruise ship are similar to a laundromat and work the same way.
On some ships, there can be a laundry facility on each deck. Each one will include several washers, dryers, irons, ironing boards and laundry detergent machines.
Carnival Cruise Line Laundry Room (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
You’ll usually be charged by the load for these laundry rooms, using change or swiping your room card. For example, on Disney Cruise Line, you just swipe your Key to the World card. However, on higher-end luxury lines, self-service laundry is often complementary. Cunard is one of the cruise lines that offer complimentary laundry service.
You have to be careful when using the self-service laundry facilities as thousands of passengers are onboard and the washing machines are limited.
Try not to leave your clothes unattended too long, and if you are planning on returning once the washing is complete, make sure you return on time. When the self-service laundry rooms are busy, you might find another guest has already taken your wet clothes out of the washer and dumped them on the side.
Handwash Clothes in the Cabin
It might be better to stay away from the often busy laundry rooms onboard and, instead, get hands-on in the cabin. Passengers can use the sink in the room to handwash clothes.
With the sink being small, depending on the ship and type of cabin, using the shower to wash the clothes can also be a good option.
When it comes to drying the clothes in the cabin, cruise lines do not allow clothes to be put out on the balcony to dry. Also, many passengers may be in an inside or ocean-view room. Almost all cruise ships have a retractable clothesline in the shower, meaning the wet clothes can be hung on to dry.
There is even a way to get your clothes wrinkle-free in the cabin. You can look at getting a crease release spray, which won’t only take out the wrinkles, but also have your clothes smelling fresh.
And just in case you were thinking about it, cruise lines don’t allow guests to bring a clothes steamer onboard.
Can You Bring Your Own Laundry Detergent on a Cruise Ship?
Cruise ships do not have any restrictions on small liquids so that you can bring your own laundry detergent/washing powder and fabric softener. This is a great option if you’re allergic to specific detergents.
That said, this is an option if you want to wash only a couple of articles of clothing. It isn’t very efficient if you need to do your entire family’s laundry, and you may be better off using a self-service option.
Can You Bring an Iron on a Cruise?
The last thing to note about cruise ship laundry is that cabins do not come with irons, and you’re prohibited from bringing your own iron or steamer onboard. The reason is that irons are a fire hazard, and cruise ships try to minimize fire hazards as much as possible.
The good news is that some cruise lines offer irons in their laundry rooms, such as Cunard. For others, you can request an iron from guest services or housekeeping.
How to Iron Clothes on a Cruise?
There are several ways to iron clothes on a cruise ship, including using the ship’s valet laundry service, the provided self-service facilities and even your own way in the cabin.
the easiest is to get your clothes perfectly pressed using the ship’s laundry service, which will cost a fee unless you’re on a world cruise. You can leave your clothes with the laundry service card for your stateroom attendant to take away. Ships have dedicated staff at the bottom decks of the vessel, that use large pressing machines.
NCL Laundry Pressing (Photo Credit: James R. Martin / Shutterstock)
Another way is using the ship’s self-service facilities, which often include a pull-down ironing board and iron. These rooms are specially built, in case of a fire.
If doing your own clothes washing in the stateroom, you can hang the clothes in the bathroom using magnetic hooks while you take a shower. The steam will help get all those wrinkles out. Another solution is packing anti-crease spray.
Carnival Cruise Line Laundry Services
Each cruise line may offer slightly different options when it comes to cruise ship laundry. Carnival Cruise Line has self-service launderettes and valet service.
The self-service facilities are on each stateroom deck and each room includes two to three washers, two to three dryers and just a single ironing board with iron.
The price for using the self-service laundry is $3.50 per washer load and $3.50 per dryer load. There is also a vending machine where you can purchase detergent and softeners at $2.00 per box.
Carnival Cruise Line Self-Service Laundry
Carnival’s valet service is available on every ship in the fleet. Guests just need to make sure the clothes are handed in by 9:00 AM to make sure they are returned by 5:00 PM the following day. There is an express option with clothes coming back completed at 5:00 PM on the same day.
There can be specials on some sailings depending on the cruise length. For a wash and fold service on the same day, the typical price is $15.00 for one standard bag size of laundry. A press-only service for 12 items can cost $20.00.
It is important to know that the new Excel-class ships, including the Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee, do not have washers or dryers in the self-service launderettes.
Royal Caribbean Laundry Services
You might be surprised to know that Royal Caribbean does not have any self-service laundry facilities. The cruise line also does not provide any irons.
Instead, passengers will have to use the cruise line’s valet service, which is not included in the price of the cruise. There are special offers when it comes to cruise ship laundry, such as $34.99 for a small bag (provided by Royal Caribbean) of laundry. This will include the clothing being washed and folded.
Royal Caribbean Laundry Valet Price List
The price list per item will be found near the provided laundry bag, in the closet. For a wash and press, typical prices start from $1.99 for underwear and socks, $3.40 for t-shirts, all the way to $8.99 for a dress.
Norwegian Cruise Line Laundry Services
NCL doesn’t have any self-service laundry facilities onboard its ships. However, the cruise line does offer a valet service to guests for a fee. This includes washing, ironing and dry cleaning, starting from approximately $1.95 for small things such as underwear and socks all the way up to $20.00 for more important dress clothing.
Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze / Shutterstock
For guests that are part of Norwegian’s Latitudes loyalty program, the valet service is a lot more beneficial. Gold members will get a 50% discount on one laundry bag (paper laundry bag provided by the cruise line). Platinum, Platinum Plus, and Ambassador members can have a free bag of laundry.
Alternatives to Cruise Ship Laundry
As mentioned, if you don’t want to pay to do your laundry on your cruise, you can also bring your own detergent and wash your clothes in your cabin. However, depending on your cruise length, you may want to pack enough clothes not to worry about laundry.
Many guests tend to overpack for their cruise anyway and don’t wear much of what they pack. If you pack with intention and plan out your outfits for each day, you can spend less time worrying about your clothes and more time enjoying your vacation.
Wrap-Up: Several Options for Cruise Ship Laundry
To recap, here are your options when it comes to cruise ship laundry:
Wash and press or dry cleaning service
Self-service laundry
Washing your clothes in your cabin
Packing enough in your suitcase not to have to do laundry
The option you choose depends on several factors, such as how light you want to pack for your vacation or whether or not you want to spend time doing laundry. Either way, check with your specific cruise line to ensure you know what laundry services are available to you if you need them.
Cruise ship documentaries have become increasingly popular over the years as the golden age of movies and TV has settled in. From Up the Yangtze to Back to the Titanic, these films cover a wide view of how cruise ships have fared on the open seas over time. Many cruise ship documentaries are now streaming on mainstream TV channels such as Peacock, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video.
While it’s tricky to pin down a list of the top five in this category, as they all have something to offer, the following are our top picks.
1. Back to the Titanic
Popularized in pop culture by the famous movie with Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, the Titanic – the ship that infamously went down on its maiden voyage from England to the US – has shown up throughout numerous books, movies, and documentaries. One documentary released in 2020, Back to the Titanic, produced by a National Geographic/Disney partnership, chronicles the first manned dives to the ship’s remnants in 15 years.
The film explores the findings of a team of oceanographic experts who captured the ship’s rate of decay. It’s a highly informative, exciting, and adventurous foray into a subject that has captivated audiences for decades.
2. Up the Yangtze
A 2008 Sundance Official Selection documentary, this film is set onboard a riverboat cruise ship sailing the Yangtze River in Hubei, China before the construction of the Three Gorges Dam.
It focuses on the lives of two crew members. One character, Cindy Yu Shui, is from a poor family who acclimatizes to the consumer economy – all with a foil effect as contrasted with her family, who is displaced from their rural life and moves to larger cities.
The other character, “Jerry” Chen Bo Yu, is from a more prosperous family and tries to establish himself and earn more money as an entertainer onboard the ship. This highly-acclaimed film won Best Documentary at the Vancouver International Film Festival and is available on Amazon Prime Video.
3. The Secret Life of the Cruise
This 2018 documentary, available on Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, and many other streaming channels, is about the MSC Seaside, one of the largest cruise ships in history. They call the ship “a floating city on the sea.”
The documentary gives you an insider’s view of how the ship works from the bottom up – how it’s powered, the innumerable jobs the staff all have to do simultaneously, and the guests’ experience day in and day out. Highly recommended.
4. Billion Pound Cruise Ship
This popular documentary is a mini-series on Channel 4 in the UK. The show goes behind the scenes on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas cruise ship, which at the time, was the world’s largest!
There are three episodes, with the first originally airing in October 2020. The series shows passengers enjoying all that the massive oasis-class ship has on offer and how the crew keeps it all running smoothly.
5. Mighty Cruise Ships
Aired on Discovery Channel in Canada in 2014, 2017, and 2019, this documentary is divided into episodes, each focusing on a single cruise ship in minute detail. With superb behind-the-scenes footage, Mighty Cruise Ships features such ships as the Celebrity Solstice, Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, and many more.
Among the ship companies it covers are Viking and Azamara, as well as a couple others. It’s a fascinating and scrutinous look at what really goes on aboard these mighty ships that will surely incentivize passengers to plan a trip!
Conclusion
There are many ways to spend your leisure time and a nearly endless list of movies and TV shows to watch as they are in their golden age. If you’re heading on a cruise ship soon or are just fascinated by the inner machinations and goings-on that occur onboard, we suggest it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy one or two of these cruise ship documentaries.
We’ve provided a healthy mix of the old and the new here and go from romantic to disastrous to mysterious and other thematic elements in between. This list of top picks isn’t exhaustive, and we encourage you to do your own research to find out more about documentaries that suit your particular interests and curiosities.
All in all, this is a great place to start, and we hope it provides you with some quality entertainment. Check out more of our blog posts as well – they’re a gold mine of information about everything cruise ship-related.
American Queen Voyages, is following several other cruise lines by upgrading its entire fleet of seven vessels with SpaceX Starlink Maritime, a satellite-based internet service that provides fast, reliable, and global internet coverage for ships worldwide.
The company aims to provide its guests with the best internet access while cruising through North America. American Queen Voyages will become the first cruise line to have its entire fleet fully upgraded with Starlink technology with 5G backup.
All American Queen Cruise Ships Will Have Starlink
American Queen Voyages has announced that it will be equipping its entire fleet of authentic paddlewheel riverboats, boutique exploration vessels, and expedition ships with satellite internet technology from SpaceX Maritime.
American Queen Voyages is the first cruise line in the US to fully upgrade its entire fleet with cutting-edge new technology, providing guests with fast and reliable internet access while they explore North America.
The Starlink Maritime system is designed to provide satellite internet access and coverage globally. It is considered one of the fastest and most powerful internet services available, particularly for maritime environments. The system will be integrated with 5G cellular backup, ensuring a seamless and stable internet connection for guests and crew alike.
Photo Courtesy: American Queen Voyages
Each vessel in the American Queen Voyages fleet will have multiple maritime Starlink-grade kits, providing significant bandwidth in partnership with the FMC Global Sat 5G solution.
Emmanuel Cotrel, Chief Executive Officer of FMC, commented: “FMC’s innovative solutions integrated with Starlink’s connectivity enables applications and services that require low latency and significant Mbps of bandwidth that were, until now, considered unrealistic or cost prohibitive. We are pleased to help provide American Queen Voyage passengers and crew with best-in-class internet connectivity wherever they travel.”
The technology will be an included amenity in American Queen Voyages’ luxurious all-inclusive offerings, ensuring that guests and crew can access the internet anywhere they travel.
Starlink will be installed, tested, and ready to use on all vessels before they set sail in 2023. American Queen, American Countess, and Ocean Navigator have already undergone Starlink installation and are ready for guests and crew to enjoy.
Improving the Guest & Crew Experience
With the upgrade to Starlink, American Queen Voyages aims to provide its guests with the ability to stay connected and access the internet at high speeds, much like they would at home. The fast and reliable internet service will allow guests to browse the web, stream content, and stay in touch with loved ones back home, making the cruise experience more enjoyable and stress-free.
“Upgrading our included Wi-Fi to Space X’s Starlink will enhance the guest and crew experience on all of our vessels,”said Cindy D’Aoust, president of American Queen Voyages.“This new internet service will now allow guests to stay connected while deeply discovering North America, enjoying the comforts of at-home Wi-Fi at sea.”
The upgrade to Starlink will not only improve the guest experience but will also enhance the crew experience. The fast and reliable internet service will allow crew members to communicate quickly and stay in touch with their loved ones, making the cruise experience better for everyone on board.
Guests sailing on a cruise on the American rivers will likely be able to use Starlink Maritime on a number of different river cruise ships this summer. Earlier this year, American Cruise Line announced it would also install Starlink onboard its cruise ships.
With a bit of planning, there are many ways to save money on your first cruise. Consider these strategies to reduce the costs before and during your vacation voyage.
We have all seen those glamorous advertisements online, on television, and in print with gorgeous ships, happy travelers, and stunningly low prices. Simply stated, this will not be the accurate cost of your cruise vacation. It is a starting point; the base number to which you will need to add other expenses.
If you see an advertised “price” you like from a particular cruise line, it is time to do some research about the details. The big question to answer: What specifically is included?
For example, where will the cabin be located on the ship? Interior rooms and those near busy areas are always cheaper. But if you want a balcony or window, then the advertised price may not be right for your needs.
Make a list of what you are getting for the advertised price and shop for similar “deals” with other cruise lines. One strategy for doing this is to peruse third-party booking sites. Here you will likely find comparable rates with the option of getting some competitive perks. Usually offered as onboard credits (a useful and simple way to pay for things onboard), the differences can be hundreds of dollars.
Added tip: Check with your credit cards to see if you can earn some travel point or other benefits for paying with them.
When to Book
Another way to save money on your first cruise is to book your reservations at certain times. There are a couple of ways to use this strategy to save money: Book early or book at the last minute. For the former, cruise lines want to sell all the reservations they can, as quickly as possible. This means they often offer upgrades (better cabins) and value-added benefits (packages) for those who book six to 18 months ahead.
If you can travel spontaneously, it can be easy to book a cheap, last-minute spot on a cruise. The possible downside here can be the cost of getting to port, the type and location of your cabin and (read the fine print) the kinds of amenities included.
Photo Credit: EQRoy / Shutterstock
During ‘wave season’ (January to March), cruises are cheaper. This is also a good time to make reservations – and, you do not have to travel during that period—just book for whatever dates you like.
Make a reservation during shoulder season. These are the times that are not peak and not off season. For example, late summer and early fall in the Caribbean is in this category because it is hurricane season as well. If you book these dates, purchase some travel insurance – just in case.
An added tip: Book your second cruise while still on your first one! Deep discounts and semi-negotiable perks are generally standard practice when making reservations onboard.
When to Cruise
If the students are out of school (summer, fall and spring breaks and holidays), the cost of a cruise is generally higher. However, there are still great deals available during these times with a bit of research and planning.
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock
Added tip: Keep an eye on the price of your cruise. If the cost drops, contact the cruise line and ask for a reimbursement of the difference. This is usually issued as an onboard credit – the same as money while on the ship. And, they cannot say ‘yes’ to your request if you do not ask!
Where to Stay on the Cruise Ship
There are basically four types of staterooms (cabins) on a cruise ship: inside, outside, balcony and suites. Each of these come with a wide array of characteristics and price differentials with inside (no windows) as the cheapest.
Outside cabins (ocean views via a window or porthole) are a bit higher in price; balconies are the next most costly; and, suites are the most expensive. Weigh the cost differences against your accommodation priorities.
Photo Credit: Andrea Izzotti / Shutterstock
On a related note, older ships have cheaper prices. While everyone is scrambling to book the latest and greatest on the sea, consider a voyage on a seasoned vessel. The comforts are comparable; the food is just as good; and, the itineraries are comparable.
Shop for Packages
Many of the expenses related to a cruise vacation are now grouped into packages. These can be the essentials like food (at specialty restaurants), drinks and gratuities or extras like spa days, classes, events, Internet and shore excursions.
One way to save money is to either negotiate their inclusion with your price or pre-purchase them when you make your reservations. Again, do a bit of research to find the best deals.
Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive
Specifically, Internet access onboard can (cumulatively) be expensive. It is usually priced per device per day. So, with a family of four, this can quickly become expensive. One suggestion is to purchase a shared Internet package.
While only one person can be online a time, access is available across multiple devices. This is a great way to save if everyone does not need to be online at the same time, or you would like access only sporadically.
Added tip: Ports of call with Internet cafés and restaurants often offer this for free to their patrons. For those who do not have to be online at any given moment, this is a cost saver.
Packing for Your First Cruise
It might be tempting to pack lots of luggage if you are driving to port. Keep in mind that space is limited in the cabins and porters will (appropriately) expect a gratuity for handling your big bags. And, if you are flying, baggage check is another expense you can avoid by packing light. (The cruise ship will have hairdryers, irons, soaps and shampoos.)
Should you need personal toiletries and over-the-counter medicines after boarding (sunscreen and motion sickness remedies, for example), they are…well… hugely overpriced!
Photo Credit: New Africa / Shutterstock
While it is good to have the option to purchase something you might not have anticipated needing, avoid an expensive aspirin by bringing what you need with you. And, if you run out of something or do not have an immediate need, shop for these items at stores and pharmacies in your ports of call for cheaper prices.
Also, bring along plenty of cash. As we all know, ATM fees are quite high everywhere – and this includes on the ship and in the ports of call. Check the exchange rates for your destinations and only use banks to change your money should you need local currency when you go ashore.
Added tip: Consider packing and bringing some of your favorite snacks. Or, buying some local treats when you go ashore. If they are prepackaged, they are allowed on the ship.
Waiting for Departure
It is always a good idea to arrive at your departure port at least one day ahead of sailing. Therefore, you will need overnight accommodations. Ask the hotel if they have any stay/cruise benefits. One of the best perks is the option of leaving your vehicle at the hotel during the cruise.
Photo Credit: Ramunas Bruzas / Shutterstock
Parking at the port can quickly add up. Also, ask if they have a free shuttle for transportation to and from the port – another way to save money on your first cruise regardless of whether you drive or fly.
Where to Eat Onboard
Included in the price of your cruise will be breakfast, lunch and dinner in the main dining room (and possibly some buffet locations). Since you have already paid for these meals (and they are quite delicious), eat there as often as possible. For example, when you pull into a port of call, have a meal before going ashore. And, you are free to come and go as you please while in port. So, consider returning to the ship to eat.
Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock
If you would like to enjoy the cuisine at the various specialty restaurants onboard, this will cost extra. Meals are often a flat price per person. For the best deals, have lunch rather than dinner at these eateries.
The option to order “free” room service is often included in the price of the cruise as well. However, this is another time to read the fine print. To avoid any surprises, make sure that there are no restrictions related to the menu or time of day (or night) to use this perk.
Shore Excursion Options
Time ashore at various ports of call is one of the best parts of a cruise vacation. To save money on your first cruise, read ahead of time about where you are stopping during your itinerary. Pick out some places and activities that fit your interests and look for local guides to give you a tour.
Photo: Copyright Cruise Hive
Or, simply go exploring on your own at the ports of call. These strategies can be considerably cheaper than signing up for the cruise line tours. Do keep an eye on the clock though; the ship will not wait should you arrive late back to port.
Shop for Souvenirs
The gift shop onboard can be a tempting place to shop. They have all the neat items you would like to purchase for your memories and your family. Resist the urge to buy it when you see it, unless it is on sale.
Carnival Sun Shops (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
Souvenir shops on ships have a rolling system of marking down inventory throughout the cruise. Check back and wait for a better price. And, remember, when you go ashore in your ports of call, there will be many opportunities to negotiate a price with vendors for their local wares.
Group Cruises
One way to enjoy an inexpensive cruise, with the possibility of traveling for free, is to organize a group vacation. If you have a large group of friends or family that would like to take a cruise together, see what options your chosen cruise line offers. By signing up a certain number of passengers in your group, you (and possibly your cabin mate) could receive a free cruise or substantial discounts and credits.
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Keep in mind that you will be the organizer and work directly with the line or travel agent to plan everything, like finding the best cruise, communications with your group and on time deposits/payments.
Consider a Luxury Cruise Line
If traveling in style at the best price is in the plans for your first cruise consider booking a reservation on a luxury cruise line. While it may seem counterintuitive for saving money, it might just be the best deal for the price.
For example, if you want to stay in the nicest suites and want to eat at all the best restaurants onboard a standard cruise, it may actually cost more than a reservation on a luxury line.
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The reason for this is that most of the upper-tier cruise lines include everything we have been considering here – shore excursions, drink packages, gratuities, Internet access and pre-sailing hotels and even flights. Do the math and see how the costs compare when placed side-by-side.
Repositioning Cruise
Our final tip is possibly the most unique idea for a way to save money on your first voyage – a repositioning cruise. These are one-way trips that cruise ships take to move from one operational region or seasonal homeport to another.
The difference? Repositioning cruises can be considerably cheaper (particularly per day) compared to a typical sailing. Additionally, they often have fewer passengers. They usually occur in spring or fall and can last two weeks or more.
There are multiple days at sea and the ship has a full crew and conducts itself as if it were on a regular voyage – food, activities, stops at exotic locations and so forth. If an extended trip sounds fun, be sure to select a ship with activities of interest to you since you will be at sea for days at a time.
With some careful planning, you can coordinate the additional travel requirements with a repositioning cruise. For example, frequent flyer miles to the departure port and a comparatively inexpensive cruise back home – perfect!
Guests booked to sail next week aboard Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam have been notified of an itinerary change that involves a port swap and slightly less time in the replacement port due to an engine issue that limits the ship’s speed. The safety of the vessel is not impacted, and guests are being provided with compensation for the change.
Nieuw Amsterdam Itinerary Change
The impacted itinerary is the February 12, 2023 sailing of Nieuw Amsterdam, a 7-night roundtrip Southern Caribbean cruise departing from Fort Lauderdale. The original itinerary has the ship calling on Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s private island in The Bahamas, as well as Bonaire and Curacao before returning to Florida on Sunday, February 19.
Guests have now been notified of a modification to the itinerary, with a port swap as a result.
“Please be advised that Nieuw Amsterdam is experiencing a technical issue with the Azipod propulsion system,”the email explained.“As a result, we will no longer call to Kralendijk, Bonaire on Wednesday, February 15, 2023. Instead, we will now call to Oranjestad, Aruba.”
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Bonaire was planned to have been the second port of call for the cruise, after Half Moon Cay and with a day at sea between the two ports. The email explains that the Azipod issue “does restrict our ability to operate at full speed” as the reason for the port swap.
Bonaire and Aruba are just 125 miles (201 kilometers) apart. At Nieuw Amsterdam‘s top cruising speed of nearly 24 knots (27 miles per hour / 44 kilometers per hour), it would take the ship just under 5 hours to move between the ports.
The call to Aruba will be from 5-11 p.m, whereas the original itinerary had the ship visiting Bonaire for two hours longer, from 3-11 p.m. on the same date.
This does confirm that the ship must move more slowly to reach the port, but not so slowly that the itinerary must be more dramatically altered, such as switching to an Eastern rather than a Southern Caribbean route.
Compensation Provided
To help alleviate disappointment over the change, guests are being provided with $50 (USD) of non-refundable onboard credit, which will be posted to each guest’s onboard account for this sailing.
Furthermore, all shore excursions for Bonaire that have been booked through the cruise line are being fully refunded, and updated excursion options for Aruba will be available for booking onboard.
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As no other ports of call have been modified in any way at this time, this is quite generous compensation for the alteration. Experienced cruise travelers know that cruise lines have full authority to change or cancel ports of call at any time, even after the cruise sets sail, and have no obligation to provide compensation to guests for such alterations.
More Changes for Nieuw Amsterdam
This is the second change announced recently for the Signature-class Nieuw Amsterdam. Earlier this week, the cruise line notified guests booked on the 14-night May 7, 2023 Alaskan sailing that there were several changes to that lengthy itinerary, including a port swap and changes to the days the ship would be visiting other ports along the way.
Those changes were attributed to “operational changes” with no mention made of any engine issues impacting the ship’s speed.
This may mean that the Azipod issue is a relatively minor concern, one that can be easily fixed while the ship is in operation. It is likely that the issue will be corrected well before the ship repositions to Vancouver in April in preparation for the Alaska sailing season.
Nevertheless, guests booked on Nieuw Amsterdam for the next several weeks will want to stay in close contact with the cruise line for potential updates and itinerary changes for their sailings, just in case further adjustments are necessary or the issue becomes more critical.
MSC Cruises is set to make a splash in 2023 with its summer itineraries, offering guests a wide selection of 140 destinations across 40 countries, with more than 50 embarkation ports.
The world’s third-largest cruise brand has 22 ships in its fleet, each sailing to must-see destinations, including the Arctic, Copenhagen, the Greek Islands, the Bahamas, Japan, and the Caribbean.
Experience the Best of Europe and the Arctic Circle
This summer, guests booking a cruise onboard one of the state-of-the-art MSC Cruises ships can look forward to visiting some of the most exciting destinations in Europe.
Sailing from Kiel, Germany, and Copenhagen, Denmark, the 2023 UNESCO World Capital of Architecture, MSC Euribia will sail to Hellesylt, Alesund, and Flaam in Norway. MSC Euribia is the newest ship in the fleet launching in June, and is a sister ship to MSC World Europa.
For a more adventurous experience, guests can opt for the exclusive destination of Svalbard, Norway, which is only available for four sailings during the summer of 2023 onboard MSC Preziosa.
Render Courtesy: MSC Cruises
Svalbard, located 500 miles from the North Pole, offers a unique opportunity to discover the Arctic Circle and its breathtaking landscapes. Excursions include a hybrid-electric catamaran tour of the fjords, a hybrid-electric speedboat visit to a walrus colony, or e-biking through polar bear country.
MSC Cruises is introducing a brand-new destination for the summer of 2023, the Greek Island paradise of Zakynthos, onboard MSC Lirica, which will begin in May. The island boasts white pebbled shorelines, turquoise waters, and rugged clifftops. The ship will sail from Venice and also visit Dubrovnik, Croatia; Bar, Montenegro; Corfu, Greece; and Bari, Italy.
The 215,863 gross tons, 6,762-passenger MSC World Europa, the flagship of MSC Cruises, will sail to popular Western Mediterranean destinations this summer, including Genoa, Naples, Messina, Valletta, Barcelona, and Marseille.
The first LNG-powered vessel in MSC’s fleet, the ultramodern vessel, has been operating in the Persian Gulf since December last year. This summer will be the first season of cruises in Europe for the cruise ship.
Three Cruise Ships Sailing from the U.S.
MSC Cruises is offering three ships sailing from US homeports, providing guests with a variety of Caribbean cruise options. MSC Seascape offers 7- or 14-night sailings from Miami, MSC Meraviglia offers 7-night Bahamas cruises from New York, and MSC Seaside offers 3 to 11-night cruises from Port Canaveral.
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All cruises visit the highlight of MSC’s Caribbean itineraries, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. The island was built by dredging in the late 1960s is a former sand mine but now features a tropical landscape that only MSC guests can enjoy.
Return to Japan
MSC Cruises will finally return to Asia and offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to discover the beauty of Japan during one of six cruises. Aboard the MSC Bellissima, guests can experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, ancient traditions, and modern attractions.
The itineraries include stops at the island of Kyushu, which was recently named one of the 23 must-visit destinations in 2023 by Architectural Digest, and other popular cities like Kagoshima and Fukuoka. Cruises depart from Yokohama, conveniently located just south of Tokyo, allowing guests to explore the exciting capital of Japan pre- or post-cruise.
Princess Cruises will turn the spotlight on American history in the summer of 2024, when two of its cruise ships will call at the port of Yorktown, Virginia, and offer guests the opportunity to explore Virginia’s Historic Triangle — Yorktown, Jamestown, and Williamsburg.
The port of Yorktown is within a small harbor where Chesapeake Bay meets the York River in southeastern Virginia. Princess will be the first major cruise line to call at the port.
Ties to Revolutionary War
Two Princess Cruises ships will include five-day-long port calls to Yorktown on their itineraries in summer 2024, with three visits by the 92,000 gross ton, 2,200-guest Island Princess and two visits by the 113,561 gross ton, 3,080-guest Emerald Princess.
Dates and itineraries will be announced in coming weeks, the line said, along with excursions, which are certain to include the historically significant sites and events that tie the region’s Historic Triangle destinations to the Revolutionary War.
Princess Cruises President John Padgett said,“Princess is already well known for our unique itineraries that appeal to our guests who gravitate toward interesting historical and cultural opportunities and Yorktown is perfectly in tune with that philosophy, offering not only a glimpse at the Revolutionary War but also dining, shopping and activity options with wide-ranging appeal. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
Photo Courtesy: Princess Cruises
It was the Battle of Yorktown that decisively ended the war when British General Lord Charles Cornwallis surrendered to General George Washington in 1781.
Williamsburg is home to Colonial Williamsburg, a historic district and living-history museum, while Jamestown has the ruins of the first permanent English settlement in North America as well as a living-history museum. The three historical sites are within a short drive of each other.
According to Padgett, the calls at Yorktown and excursions to the region’s historic sites are significant as the country approaches the 250th anniversaries of the start of the Revolutionary War and the writing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The anniversary will be celebrated in 2026.
Padgett added, ”We couldn’t be more excited about this incredible opportunity to add this truly unforgettable destination experience to our already impressive array of itineraries. As a native Virginian myself, I can attest that an itinerary that offers the chance to visit Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown promises to be a most welcome addition for our guests, providing them with memorable vacation experiences that they can’t find anywhere else.”
Local Tourism Boost
With the Princess ships sailing at full capacity, the five port calls could deliver around 14,000 cruise guests to the area, representing a boost to local tourism and to local tour operators.
York County Economic & Tourism Development Director Kristi Olsen-Hayes said,“Our community is rooted in history and it is an important part of our visitor mix. We are honored that Princess Cruises sees the value in bringing their customers to Yorktown.”
“Additional visitors coming to our area via the cruise line would contribute to the region’s economy, benefiting retail, restaurants, and regional attractions, as well as generating revenue for both the Commonwealth and multiple local governments,”Olsen-Hayes added.
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Excursions are likely to include revolutionary battlefields, colonial architecture, gardens, the living-history museums at Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg, and other area attractions.
As a small port with limited docking facilities, the Princess ships will tender guests ashore. Another cruise line already includes Yorktown on its itineraries, American Cruise Lines, which operates small ships carrying under 200 guests.
The line’s 170-guest American Constitution calls at Yorktown on her 6-night Chesapeake Bay Cruise and 10-night American Revolution Cruise, both departing from Baltimore.
The Princess announcement of port calls at Yorktown was the second itinerary reveal by the line this week. On February 7, it unveiled its Alaska 2024 schedule, which will see seven vessels deployed to the destination.
