Blog Page 7

Carnival Strips Platinum Benefits from Alaska Sailing Just Days Before Departure

Melissa Mayntz
-
0
Carnival Strips Platinum Benefits from Alaska Sailing Just Days Before Departure

Key Aspects:

  • Carnival Luminosa‘s May 11, 2026 sailing is the latest that will not be offering key Platinum loyalty benefits to guests.
  • The 10-night cruise is departing from San Francisco for a round-trip Alaska itinerary.
  • Priority embarkation and debarkation, early stateroom access, and priority luggage delivery will not be available.

It’s getting to be almost expected that Carnival Cruise Line’s Platinum VIFP guests, those who have achieved the next-to-highest benefit level with the cruise line, will not get to use those benefits on any unusual, longer, or unique sailing.

Such is the case with guests sailing aboard Carnival Luminosa on the ship’s May 11, 2026 departure, as they have now been notified that some of their most desirable benefits will not be available.

“Due to the high number of Platinum guests joining us on this voyage, we will not be able to provide the following benefits,” the cruise line began.

The notification, just a week before the cruise is set to embark, goes on to list the benefits that will not be available to Platinum level guests.

This includes priority embarkation and debarkation both at the ship’s San Francisco homeport, as well as any of the ports of call on the 10-night Alaskan itinerary. The ship will be visiting Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Prince Rupert Island.

When Platinum guests board the ship on Monday, May 11, they will also be unable to access their staterooms early to drop off luggage.

“To allow the housekeeping team to get the staterooms ready by 1:30 PM, early luggage drop off cannot be facilitated given the limited turnaround time,” the email explained.

Read Also: Carnival Cruise Ships in Alaska – Which One to Choose?

Furthermore, no priority luggage delivery will be available for Platinum guests. General luggage delivery can take several hours, and guests may not receive all their bags until later in the evening.

Two other benefits may also be cancelled, though the email is not clear about how firm the option may be. The priority line at Guest Services on Deck 2 in the Supernova Atrium may not be available, and the dedicated phone assistance from Guest Services may also be discontinued.

It is likely that those two benefits may only be offered intermittently during the sailing when staffing and operations permit.

Carnival Luminosa in Seattle
Carnival Luminosa in Seattle (Photo Credit: Ian Dewar Photography)

Carnival Luminosa can welcome as many as 2,286 guests onboard, but the cruise line does not release details about the breakdown of how many guests are at which loyalty levels for any particular sailing.

The notification for this loss of benefits comes just as Carnival Cruise Line is reaching out to thousands of guests in the VIFP loyalty program to alert them that it is necessary to opt-in to the upcoming Carnival Rewards program or they risk losing any accumulated benefits when the new program begins in September.

Why Are Benefits Removed Again?

Carnival explains these adjustments to the Platinum benefits for this sailing as “consistent with other voyages where we have a very large number of Platinum guests.”

It should be noted that benefits remain in place for the highest tier of the loyalty program and Diamond cruisers will still be able to take advantage of their full benefits. At this time, the adjustment only impacts Platinum guests.

Most recently, the FFS cruise with brand ambassador John Heald lost the same Platinum benefits as Carnival Luminosa‘s sailing. That once-a-year cruise offers special events, photo ops, and swag for Heald’s fans and is always quick to sell out.

While Carnival Luminosa is not having such a special guest onboard, the unusual departure point for the cruise has likely made it more popular. The ship is homeported in San Francisco and is offering multiple sailings to Alaska this season.

More From Cruise Hive

The 10-night itineraries are longer than the typical 7-night cruises that depart from Seattle. With San Francisco as a departure point, cruise guests also have different pre- and post-cruise options that can be more convenient than sailing from Washington state.

Cruise Hive has reported on other Carnival cruises that have frequently lost VIFP benefits, including transatlantic sailings, repositioning cruises, Greenland itineraries, and the longer, more immersive Carnival Journeys cruises.

Cruisers Who Booked Juneau’s Tram Will Get Full Refunds After Extended Closure

Catie Kovelman
-
0
Cruisers Who Booked Juneau’s Tram Will Get Full Refunds After Extended Closure

Key Aspects:

  • Goldbelt Tram, a popular attraction enjoyed by cruise guests in Juneau, experienced an accident that sent two people to the hospital on April 30, 2026.
  • The famous tram was immediately shut down for inspection and repairs, and the closure has now been extended to May 24.
  • 85 cruise ship calls are expected in Juneau during this time period, and thousands of these guests will be entitled to refunds.

Cruisers looking forward to experiencing Juneau’s Goldbelt Tram will need to find a different way to spend their time in Alaska’s capital, at least for the next few weeks.

Cruise Hive initially reported that the famous attraction would be closed at least through the weekend of May 2-3, 2026, following an accident that sent two people to the hospital on April 30.

However, the closure has now been extended through at least May 24, 2026, to investigate the cause of the accident and ensure that all necessary repairs are made.

“On April 30, the Goldbelt Tram experienced an incident involving a tram car carrying five employees. We are grateful there were no serious injuries,” Goldbelt Tram posted on social media.

“The Tram will be closed through May 24 as we investigate the issue and take any necessary corrective measures to ensure the safety of our guests and employees,” the post stated.

There is a slight possibility that the temporary closure could be extended further, which would be a shame given the 2026 Alaska cruise season is just starting to really ramp up.

An Investigation and Repairs Are Underway

For unknown reasons, a cable car came into the base station too fast and made an abrupt, and rather violent, stop. This resulted in minor injuries to the people onboard and damage to tram infrastructure.

The cause behind the accident is still under investigation, and Cruise Hive will issue another update if and when more details become publicly available.

Juneau Tram
Juneau Tram (Photo Credit: Jing Zhong)

The Tram was carrying five employees, and thankfully, no cruise guests. The two workers who were taken to the hospital were treated and quickly released.

According to the Juneau Independent, damage occurred at the stations at both the top and bottom of Mount Roberts because two cable cars were being operated simultaneously. The extent of the damage is unclear.

Rest assured that Goldbelt Tram will not reopen until a thorough investigation is complete and the appropriate repairs are made and inspected.

Refunds Provided to Cruise Guests

Because of its prime downtown location and close proximity to the cruise port, the Goldbelt Tram is a popular shore excursion that can be booked directly through the major cruise lines.

Some brands, such as Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line, offer multiple versions of the Goldbelt Tram that sell the experience on its own or paired with other attractions, such as seeing the Mendenhall Glacier.

As Goldbelt Tram is unable to resume its normal operations, the company is in the process of issuing full refunds to its guests. For cruisers who booked the experience through their cruise line, Goldbelt is likely refunding the cruise company, who will refund guests.

“The Tram is in the process of refunding all pre-paid tickets for visits scheduled during the closure period that were purchased through our website. If you purchased tickets through a third party, such as a cruise line, please contact that vendor directly for refund assistance,” Goldbelt Tram advised.

Between the time of publication and end of day on May 24, Juneau is anticipating a staggering 85 cruise ship calls.

While this number may seem high for just about three weeks, Juneau is the busiest cruise port in Alaska. Up to five large cruise ships can dock at the southeastern city at once.

More From Cruise Hive

Over the coming weeks, major brands like Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and more will be represented in the port.

Smaller ships from brands like Windstar Cruises, UnCruise Adventures, and Silversea Cruises are also on the schedule.

Though thousands of cruise guests will likely be disappointed by the tram’s closure, there is thankfully no shortage of things to see and do in Juneau.

Carnival Guest Surrenders to Authorities Two Months After Onboard Incident

Melissa Mayntz
-
0
Carnival Guest Surrenders to Authorities Two Months After Onboard Incident

Key Aspects:

  • A 44-year-old woman has surrendered at a Miami jail nearly two months after an incident on Carnival Sunrise.
  • The woman punched a teenage passenger, breaking the teen’s nose, but was not arrested after the ship returned to Miami.
  • Carnival Cruise Line could ban the former guest or levy fines for breaking the code of conduct.

What happens in Vegas may stay in Vegas, but what happens on a cruise ship doesn’t necessarily stay on the ship, even after guests have long since departed.

A 44-year-old woman, Jennifer Frost, was a passenger onboard the Miami-based 2,984-passenger Carnival Sunrise in March 2026 when she got into what seems to have been an unprovoked incident with a teenage girl.

Only now, nearly two months after debarking the ship, has Frost surrendered to authorities, despite being initially detained on the ship. It is unclear how she managed to leave the ship without being arrested at the time, though onboard surveillance footage and witness statements made clear implications about the incident.

According to 6 South Florida News, Frost surrendered at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in Miami on Monday, May 4, 2026. She faces aggravated battery charges.

The altercation happened on March 19 in the Lido Marketplace restaurant. The victim, who has not been identified because she is a minor, stated that she was standing in line with friends when Frost approached, seemingly intoxicated.

The teens were uncomfortable with Frost, but tried to ignore her, and Frost left. After the victim got ice cream, Frost approached again and punched the victim, then fled. The victim suffered a broken nose from the assault.

Security caught up with Frost shortly thereafter, at which time she admitted to the incident without remorse.

Footage of the incident was caught by onboard surveillance cameras as well as body cameras worn by the ship’s security. The incident was also corroborated by witnesses at the time.

Carnival Cruise Line Getting Strict
Carnival Cruise Line Getting Strict

No details have been released about what, if anything, might have provoked Frost’s actions onboard. When she surrendered in Miami, she was accompanied by an attorney. Her bond has since been set at $2,500.

The 101,509-gross ton Carnival Sunrise had left PortMiami on March 16 for the 5-night Western Caribbean cruise. The incident had no impact on the ship’s itinerary, nor was debarkation delayed at the time. The teenage victim was sailing with family, but it is unclear whether Frost was traveling with others or was a solo guest.

Crimes Don’t End When the Cruise Ends

Cruise Hive has regularly reported on cruise guests facing arrests, charges, and convictions for crimes that happen at sea, from assaults to theft to fraud. Just because a ship may be in international waters at the time of an incident, that does not mean the parties involved are free of the consequences of their actions.

Onboard security will intervene in such incidents, and cruise ships do have jails to detain anyone who may be considered a danger to others. Another option can be to confine someone to their stateroom with a guard if necessary.

Criminal reports may be filed once a ship returns to its homeport, and crimes are typically prosecuted in that homeport’s jurisdiction.

More From Cruise Hive

Physical altercations are a violation of Carnival Cruise Line’s guest code of conduct policy and Frost may also face fines from the cruise line or a ban from sailing on any Carnival ship in the future.

“Any allegation of a serious crime committed aboard a Carnival ship sailing from North America is immediately reported to law enforcement in accordance with the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010,” the cruise line’s safety and security information clarifies.

Carnival Cruise Line has not commented on the incident and it is not known if Frost will face further consequences from her inappropriate actions.

Hope for Stranded Cruise Passengers as Spain Agrees to Receive Hantavirus-Hit Ship

Catie Kovelman
-
0
Hope for Stranded Cruise Passengers as Spain Agrees to Receive Hantavirus-Hit Ship

Key Aspects:

  • MV Hondius, which is currently navigating a hantavirus outbreak that has claimed three lives, won’t be able to disembark as planned in Cape Verde, Africa.
  • Instead, Spain is preparing to safely welcome the ship and disembark passengers.
  • Once medical evacuations for several critical guests are complete, the expedition ship will begin the journey to the Canary Islands.

An end may be in sight for the approximately 150 people stranded onboard Oceanwide Expeditions’ MV Hondius, who are living through an unprecedented hantavirus outbreak that has already led to three deaths.

The small vessel, which left Argentina on April 1, 2026, to begin a voyage to Antarctica, is currently stuck off the coast of Cape Verde, Africa, with guests prohibited from disembarking due to a rare hantavirus outbreak.

According to Spain’s Ministry of Health, Spain has now stepped up to receive the 5,590-gross ton vessel through a coordinated effort with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Union.

WHO determined that Cape Verde is not equipped to safely disembark passengers and that Spain’s Canary Islands are the closest location with the necessary resources and capabilities to undertake this unusual operation.

The health authority asserted that Spain has a moral and legal obligation to assist the ship, which has at least 13 Spanish nationals onboard. There are also 17 Americans, 19 British nationals, and others from a variety of countries, including Canada, Australia, Japan, the Netherlands, and Argentina.

No hantavirus outbreaks aboard cruise ships have been reported to the CDC in at least the past three decades according to archived data. This means that the situation is really unprecedented and requires careful thought and planning.

Spain’s government is currently working with WHO and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) to determine a health and safety protocol to keep everyone as safe as possible as guests and crew members are disembarked, assessed, and likely quarantined.

The health organizations want to ensure that healthcare personnel stay safe and that no passengers have any contact with the local population. Authorities will share prompt updates as a protocol is determined and implemented.

What Comes Next?

On May 5, 2026, the ECDC conducted a thorough review of the vessel to determine which individuals required urgent evacuation.

As of the time of publication, Cruise Hive is aware of three deaths and four additional passengers who are suffering from severe respiratory symptoms. Lab testing has definitively confirmed two cases of hantavirus so far.

In an update from Oceanwide Expeditions issued on May 5, the cruise line confirmed that two individuals requiring urgent care would be evacuated using a specialized aircraft, as well as a companion to a guest who died on May 2.

“The medical evacuation of two individuals currently requiring urgent medical care, and the individual associated with the guest who passed away on 2 May, will occur using two specialized aircraft that are en route to Cape Verde,” the update stated.

MV Hondius Cruise Ship
MV Hondius Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Mystic Stock Photography)

The cruise line said that the evacuees would be bound for the Netherlands, though Spain’s Ministry of Health stated that the Canary Islands would accept the ship’s doctor on behalf of the Netherlands following a formal request to do so.

The doctor is allegedly in serious condition and is being flown to the Canary Islands on a hospital aircraft on or around May 5.

Once medical evacuations are complete, the ship will sail toward Spain’s Canary Islands, although it’s not clear which specific cruise port they will dock at yet. It will most likely be Gran Canaria or Tenerife.

The journey is expected to take around three days once it begins, though the exact timeline is still unclear.

“Once these three individuals have been safely transferred from the vessel and are in transit to the Netherlands, the m/v Hondius will begin repositioning. Our plan is to proceed to the Canary Islands, either Gran Canaria or Tenerife, which will take 3 days of sailing,” the cruise line continued.

Steps have been taken to care for the remaining guests onboard and to prevent additional spread, including enhanced sanitation and cleaning, screening for symptoms, and enforcing quarantines and social distancing.

Outbreak is Under Investigation

Hantavirus is extremely rare and people are usually only infected after coming into contact with rodents, especially when exposed to their urine, droppings, or saliva.

Oceanwide Expeditions has released a tentative timeline of how the medical emergency has evolved thus far, but this is a developing situation and the cause of the outbreak is still under investigation.

While the leading theory is that at least one passenger contracted hantavirus in Argentina before boarding MV Hondius, there is some suspicion of human-to-human transmission happening onboard.

That said, transmission between humans is incredibly rare. If this is happening onboard, it would be on a very limited basis between people with very close contact, such as with the married couple who died during the outbreak.

“We do believe that there may be some human-to-human transmission that’s happening among the really close contacts, the husband and wife, people who’ve shared cabins,” Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s director of epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, told CBS News.

An investigation, quarantine protocols, and contact tracing efforts are in progress to definitively determine the source of the outbreak and mitigate further spread. Cruise Hive will continue to issue updates as soon as they are available.

Norwegian Joy Cruise Cancelled as Entire Ship Booked for Charter

Catie Kovelman
-
0
Norwegian Joy Cruise Cancelled as Entire Ship Booked for Charter

Key Aspects:

  • Norwegian Joy’s April 12, 2027, sailing has been cancelled in favor of a full-ship charter.
  • The cruise line suggested other voyages in April 2027 that impacted guests could book instead.
  • Guests who don’t take any action will automatically receive a full refund of their cruise fare.

Soon-to-be guests of Norwegian Joy are likely feeling a lot less joyful after learning that their sailing has been cancelled in favor of a private charter.

Norwegian Cruise Line notified booked guests that the 5-night sailing that is scheduled to embark in Miami, Florida, on April 12, 2027, was cancelled because the entire 3,776-guest ship had been bought out by a private charter.

It’s not clear who is behind the charter at this time, but NCL does partner with various organizations for exclusive reservations from time to time.

“Your planned cruise on Norwegian Joy’s April 12, 2027, sailing, has unfortunately been cancelled due to a full ship charter,” Norwegian Cruise Line wrote in a letter to impacted guests, which was shared on Facebook.

Assuming the schedule doesn’t change, the voyage is the final roundtrip Caribbean cruise of the season before the Breakaway Plus-class ship relocates to Seattle to begin its 2027 Alaska deployment.

The now-chartered itinerary includes stops at Cozumel, Mexico, and at Great Stirrup Cay, which is Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas.

Guests Offered Alternate Sailings

Of course, Norwegian Cruise Line isn’t just leaving booked passengers high and dry. Cruise Hive has learned that guests have multiple options to choose from in order to make things right.

First, NCL highlighted some comparable cruises departing around the same time that guests with flexible travel arrangements may be interested in taking.

“If one of these options or any other adventure catches your eye, our dedicated team is available to help you rebook or plan a new cruise vacation when you are ready,” NCL wrote.

The first option is a 4-night sailing to the Bahamas onboard Norwegian Getaway, which just like the cancelled sailing, also embarks from Miami on April 12, 2027.

Norwegian Getaway Cruise Ship
Photo Credit: M-Production / Shutterstock

This replacement voyage would call to Nassau, Bahamas, and Great Stirrup Cay, so at least guests would still get to visit the newly upgraded private island.

Alternatively, Norwegian Viva is offering two sailings in April of 2027 that impacted cruisers might find appealing.

The first is a 5-night Caribbean cruise that departs from Miami on April 13, which includes calls at Great Stirrup Cay and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.

This will be followed by a 7-night Caribbean sailing to Roatan, Honduras; Cozumel, Mexico; Harvest Caye, NCL’s private destination in Belize; and Great Stirrup Cay.

If any of these three itineraries or another unmentioned cruise seems intriguing, guests are encouraged to contact Norwegian Cruise Line to get rebooked on a new sailing.

Full Refunds Available

If another cruise vacation isn’t in the cards, guests don’t need to take any action. They will automatically receive a full refund of their cruise fare to their original form of payment in approximately seven to 10 business days.

If reservations were made using a Future Cruise Credit (FCC), the used credit will be automatically re-applied to guests’ Latitudes accounts within ten days. For context, Latitudes Rewards is the name of NCL’s loyalty program.

More From Cruise Hive

As a gesture of goodwill, the cruise line will also be giving every impacted guest a 10% discount in the form of a Future Cruise Credit, which can be put toward any NCL sailing through December 31, 2027.

The credit will be available starting on May 11, 2026, and will be given to all regardless if they pivot to a different voyage or accept the full refund.

Carnival Cruisers Risk Losing Status Without Enrolling in New Rewards Program

Lissa Poirot
-
0
Carnival Cruisers Risk Losing Status Without Enrolling in New Rewards Program

Key Aspects:

  • VIFP Club members must opt in to the new Carnival Rewards to keep their current loyalty status.
  • Enrollment must be completed individually through a personalized email by August 31, 2026.
  • Carnival Rewards will launch September 1, 2026.

Carnival Cruise Line is preparing to roll out its new loyalty program this fall, but not without adding another layer of frustration for some guests.

The new Carnival Rewards program, which is set to launch on September 1, 2026, has already faced a lukewarm reception from the cruise line’s loyal cruisers.

Now, the company has confirmed that existing VIFP Club members must actively opt in if they want to retain their current status, which could further irritate passengers already skeptical when the overhaul was first announced in 2025.

Under the new requirement, members must enroll individually through a personalized email by August 31, 2026. Without opting in, their loyalty status and sailing history could be lost, a stipulation the cruise line is blaming on privacy regulations.

“Due to privacy laws, your client’s current status progress and benefits from the VIFP Club program will carry over only by opting in and enrolling in Carnival Rewards prior to when the new program launches,” the company said in the letter.

The cruise line announced on May 5, 2026, that all loyalty members will be receiving an email with directions to “Enroll and Accept” that shouldn’t be ignored. Each message is specific to a passenger, nontransferable, and cannot be shared or completed by a third party.

Carnival Loyalty Letter
Carnival Loyalty Letter

That restriction extends to travel advisors, who are not permitted to accept terms or enroll on behalf of clients. Advisors are being encouraged to prepare for questions on the new Carnival Rewards program and guide passengers through the transition process.

Some passengers are already sharing their emails on social media, warning others to act.

“If you receive an email from Carnival about confirming your status, it is legit,” shared one member online, noting that users do not need to wait for the email and can log onto their accounts online to enroll.

New Rewards Structure

The opt-in is just one more hiccup in a rollout that hasn’t been entirely smooth. Carnival Cruise Line previously delayed the launch of the program and the changes themselves, which shift from cruise days to a spend-based system, has drawn criticism from guests who prefer the simplicity of the old model.

Under the new Carnival Rewards program, guests will earn benefits based on spending, which will include cruise fares, onboard purchases such as dining and spa treatments, shore excursions, and casino play.

The program will also tie into a co-branded credit card, allowing guests to earn rewards through everyday purchases.

The system will operate by points and status stars. Points will function as a redeemable currency, and passengers can use them toward future cruises, onboard purchases, and other travel-related expenses. Points will have a fixed value.

Status stars, on the other hand, will determine a passenger’s tier level. These stars will be earned based on spending and will reset on a rolling two-year basis. This is a significant change from the current VIFP Club, where status is based on lifetime cruise days and does not expire.

More From Cruise Hive

The cruise line has said that existing VIFP status will carry over at the launch of Carnival Rewards for those who enroll, and that level will remain in place through at least the end of 2028. After that period, guests will need to requalify under the new system.

The current tier structure of Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond is expected to remain, but how guests move between those levels will change. Higher tiers will be tied more directly to how much a passenger spends rather than how often they sail.

One exception applies to guests who reach Diamond status before the transition. These loyalty members will retain that level as a lifetime designation after the new program takes effect.

Temporary Alcohol Ban Throws a Wrench into Bahamas Cruises

Catie Kovelman
-
0
Temporary Alcohol Ban Throws a Wrench into Bahamas Cruises

Cruisers hoping to enjoy some alcoholic beverages while visiting destinations throughout the Bahamas on May 12, 2026, are in for a rude awakening.

May 12 is the date of the Bahamas’ general election, and in the Bahamas, alcohol sales are forbidden on election days to maintain public order and ensure the voting process is taken seriously.

Unfortunately, this means that alcoholic beverages cannot be sold to cruise guests, even though they are not participating in the election. Alcohol also cannot be sold at private destinations that are owned and operated by the cruise lines.

Bahamas Election Alcohol Rule Notice
Bahamas Election Alcohol Rule Notice

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line owns Great Stirrup Cay, which is located in the Berry Islands chain of the Bahamas.

The 2,344-guest Norwegian Getaway was supposed to call at NCL’s private island on May 12, but Cruise Hive learned the visit has been pushed back one day to May 13.

While the cruise line did not confirm that the alcohol ban was the reason behind the change, cruise guests suspect the election rule is to blame.

“My guess is because it’s the Election Day in the Bahamas on 5/12 and there are no alcohol sales allowed. A lot of people have complained on other lines that they didn’t change the itineraries and it impacted excursions and things bc of the no alcohol rule,” one impacted passenger said on Facebook.

No other change has been made to the 4-night Bahamas sailing, which departs from Miami, Florida, on May 11, 2026.

Carnival Cruise Line

Like Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line is opting to revise Carnival Vista’s upcoming itinerary rather than visit RelaxAway Half Moon Cay without alcohol sales.

The 6-night Eastern Caribbean sailing, which embarks in Port Canaveral on May 10, will visit Grand Turk in the Caribbean as an alcohol-friendly replacement.

Half Moon Cay Bar
Half Moon Cay Bar

“Due to Election Day in the Bahamas, we are losing our stop at Half Moon Cay and it is being replaced on our itinerary with Grand Turk,” one of the up to 3,934 guests booked on this sailing posted on social media.

Carnival’s newest private destination, Celebration Key, is also located in the Bahamas and would be impacted by the ban. Specifically, the 65-hectare cruise destination is located on the south side of Grand Bahama Island.

As of the time of this publication, Carnival Glory and Carnival Freedom are still supposed to visit the exclusive resort on May 12, just sans alcohol.

Disney Cruise Line

While Disney Cruise Line has not publicly commented on the alcohol ban, the most magical cruise line at sea has two cruise ships docking at its private destinations on May 12.

The original Castaway Cay is its own private island in the Bahamas, positioned about 160 miles east of Miami, while the newer Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is located on the southern tip of Eleuthera in the Bahamas.

There are multiple bars on both private islands that sell alcohol to adults over 21, and like the other cruise lines, alcohol is a big source of revenue.

But as a more family-friendly brand, Disney may be less inclined to alter the existing itineraries. Cruise Hive will, of course, be monitoring for updates.

Assuming nothing changes, Disney Wish will be visiting Castaway Cay as part of a 4-night Bahamas sailing, while Disney Fantasy is supposed to call at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point as part of a 5-night Bahamas voyage.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Paradise Island on Nassau already experienced an alcohol-free day on Tuesday, April 30, for election-related activity. The same thing will happen again on May 12.

The cruise line refunded guests for the Royal Beach Club experience on April 30 in the form of a 100% onboard credit since they allegedly failed to provide notice of the temporary alcohol ban in advance.

More From Cruise Hive

It would not be surprising if the same thing were done for the May 12 visit, when Utopia of the Seas will visit as part of a 4-night Bahamas sailing that embarks in Port Canaveral on May 11.

Additionally, Perfect Day at CocoCay is located in the Berry Islands in the Bahamas and would be similarly affected. This is where Oasis of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas will be on election day.

Nassau, Bahamas

As the capital of the Bahamas and one of the busiest cruise ports in the region, we would be remiss to not mention the ships that will be in Nassau on May 12.

In addition to Utopia of the Seas, MSC Cruises’ MSC Seaside and Princess Cruises’ Caribbean Princess will also be present.

But no matter where in the Bahamas cruisers dock on election day, they will simply have to enjoy their time on shore sober. There will be no shortage of alcoholic refreshments and nightcaps once they make it back onboard.

Royal Caribbean Rebrands Its Airfare Program and Highlights Perks

Catie Kovelman
-
0
Royal Caribbean Rebrands Its Airfare Program and Highlights Perks

Key Aspects:

  • Royal Caribbean has renamed its popular air travel program.
  • Instead of Air2Sea, the offering will be called “Flights by Royal” going forward.
  • The program still has all the same perks, including guaranteed arrival and book now, pay later options.

In a world where air travel is feeling more and more unpredictable, Royal Caribbean is reminding guests that they provide a great option to get passengers to and from their cruise ports.

Royal Caribbean’s Air2Sea air program has just gotten a fresh new name: “Flights by Royal.” Rest assured that “Flights by Royal” will function the same way as the Air2Sea program. The only difference is the name.

“Our air program, Air2Sea, is being rebranded to “Flights by Royal” – the Royal Caribbean® flight service that provides guests with airfare to and from their cruise,” Royal Caribbean said in a communication to travel professionals, which was shared on social media.

“With “Flights by Royal”, guests are given their choice of airlines, unbeatable value and assured arrival – delivering peace of mind that we’ll make sure guests get to their cruise, something no airline can offer,” the cruise line continued.

Currently the air program is available to all cruise guests residing in the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and select EMEA markets as they make their way to the more than 50 ports worldwide that Royal Caribbean cruises depart from.

“Flights by Royal” Offers Guaranteed Arrival

Unveiling a new moniker is a great time to remind cruisers of the benefits that come with booking sea and air travel through Royal Caribbean.

First, the air program has a guaranteed arrival feature. If a flight booked through Royal Caribbean is delayed or cancelled, the cruise line has a team available 24/7 to rebook guests on a new flight, free of charge, even if that means meeting the ship at the first port call.

In addition to rebooking flights, Royal Caribbean’s dedicated team can also help guests with making new hotel reservations and securing ground transportation as needed.

Flights By Royal
Flights By Royal

If the cruise line is not able to get the guests to the ship timely, the passengers will automatically receive a full flight refund and a future cruise credit for the full value of their sailing to reschedule at a later date.

This offers peace of mind. Cruisers who handle their own airfare don’t get the same assistance or financial benefits if there is an issue with their flight.

If guests who aren’t part of the program miss their ship or wind up with last-minute change fees, the only financial relief they might get would be through trip insurance if they chose to buy a policy that covers this situation.

“Flights By Royal” Offers Flexible Payment

Royal Caribbean’s air program has a FLEX Fare option, which offers flexibility for cruisers on a budget and/or are still unsure of their final travel plans.

Cruise Hive confirmed that this is a book now, pay later option that allows guests to reserve eligible flights with no money down when selecting a refundable (with fee) fare.

Additionally, this option allows guests can to change or cancel their flights with no penalty as long as they do so before the final payment due date.

“The FLEX Fare (Book Now, Pay Later) program for Flights by Royal lets guests reserve eligible flights with no money down when selecting a refundable (with fee) fare before their cruise final payment date,” Royal Caribbean’s website confirms.

“With Book Now, Pay Later, guests can cancel or change their flight without a cancellation or change fee up to the cruise final payment date for the specified sailing,” the policy continues.

The airfare payment is typically due when the final cruise fare payment is due. Typically, the final payment must be made 75 days prior to 1- to 4-night cruises, 90 days prior to 5- to 14-night voyages, and 120 days prior for 15-night or longer sailings.

How to Book with “Flights by Royal”

Once future guests have booked their cruises, they can book their flights online at the interactive “Flights by Royal” website or by calling Royal Caribbean’s team of travel experts, who are available 24/7 even for making reservations.

The major airlines (i.e., United Airlines, British Airways, Delta) are available through “Flights by Royal,” as are every class from coach to first class.

More From Cruise Hive

Royal Caribbean also claims that its program offers some of the best and most competitive airfare in the business, which is extra important during times of unpredictability and fuel surcharges.

But of course, booking airfare with Royal Caribbean is not required to sail. Guests have this as an option, but can choose the best way to travel for them and their companions.

Cruise Line Details Hantavirus Timeline as Passengers Still Wait to Disembark

Melissa Mayntz
-
0
Cruise Line Details Hantavirus Timeline as Passengers Still Wait to Disembark

Key Aspects:

  • Oceanswide Expeditions has released a more detailed timeline of the suspected hantavirus outbreak onboard MV Hondius.
  • At this time, only one hantavirus infection has been confirmed and it may not be related to other guest deaths.
  • The ship remains offshore of Cape Verde and the cruise line is working with authorities on safe debarkation options.

Oceanwide Expeditions is cautiously releasing more details of the timeline of the medical emergency currently evolving onboard MV Hondius, where multiple guests have died and another is confirmed infected with hantavirus.

Cruise Hive initially reported on the situation and the World Health Organization’s response to the outbreak, which began as the expedition vessel was repositioning from her Antarctic season to the Arctic.

Now, the cruise line has clarified more of an exact timeline for the outbreak, including select details of those involved.

The situation began with a male guest’s sudden death on Saturday, April 11, though the cause of death was not able to be determined at that time. The deceased guest and his wife were debarked on St. Helena, a small island in the South Atlantic, roughly 1,170 miles off the coast of Africa.

The wife fell ill and later died. There has not yet been any confirmation about the cause of their deaths or whether they are related to the hantavirus outbreak onboard the ship. Both guests were Dutch nationals.

On Monday, April 27, another guest onboard Hondius became seriously ill and required emergency medical evacuation to Johannesburg, South Africa. The guest, who is a British national, is reportedly in critical but stable condition but has been confirmed infected with hantavirus.

A third guest, this one a German citizen, died onboard the ship on Saturday, May 2. The cause of death has not yet been determined.

Two crew members currently onboard the ship are reportedly ill with respiratory symptoms, though the cruise line has not indicated whether these symptoms are consistent with hantavirus. One is a British national, the other is a Dutch national.

“Hantavirus has not currently been confirmed in the two persons still on board who require medical care. Nor has it been established that the virus is connected to the three deaths associated with this voyage,” the cruise line explained.

“The exact cause and any possible connection are being investigated. Therefore, the only confirmed case of hantavirus is the passenger who was medically evacuated and is now being treated in Johannesburg.”

MV Hondius Cruise Ship
MV Hondius Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Leonard Zhukovsky)

No further identifying details about those impacted have been released, as is standard to safeguard individuals’ privacy.

Onboard, various outbreak precautions are in place, including isolation measures for those exhibiting any symptoms as well as enhanced hygiene throughout the ship. Guests are being kept informed of the situation as new information becomes available.

When Will Guests Debark the Ship?

At the moment, Hondius is off the coast of Cape Verde and is unable to disembark guests without clearance from the authorities. There are 149 people onboard the ship, including 19 British nationals, 17 US citizens, 13 Spanish nationals, and others from a variety of countries, including Canada, Australia, Japan, the Netherlands, and Argentina.

Of those onboard, 61 are crew members, 38 of whom are Philippine nationals.

All cruise ships must abide by local restrictions for debarkation clearance, and medical concerns are always a factor. Strict protocols are in place to prevent the transmission of any contagious diseases, which can delay when a ship is able to debark.

Oceanwide Expeditions is working with local and international authorities, medical oversight organizations, including the World Health Organization, and different embassies to clarify the situation and next steps.

“The option of sailing on to Las Palmas or Tenerife are being considered to be the gateway for disembarkation, where further medical screening and handling could take place,” the cruise line noted, though no plans for this are yet confirmed.

The cruise line is also reaching out to those directly impacted by the situation, including families on land, to provide information and support.

More From Cruise Hive

The World Health Organization notes that there are several variations of hantavirus, all of which are carried by rodents and contracted by contact with the urine, feces, or saliva of infected rodents. Different strains of hantavirus have different symptoms and progression in those infected. Human-to-human transmission is rare.

Cruise Hive’s thoughts are with all those onboard during this frightening situation, as well as their loved ones at home who are awaiting new information about the incident.

1...678...601Page 7 of 601