The US Coast Guard concluded an investigation that puts the blame for a canceled SpaceX rocket firmly in Royal Caribbean’s hands. The Harmony of the Seas departed Port Canaveral back in January when it sailed into one of the exclusion zones the Coast Guard had created to protect the public in case of an emergency.
Due to the vessel being in the wrong place at the wrong time, the rocket’s launch had to be canceled. Harmony of the Seas had no authorization to be in the area. However, the US Coast Guard did admit that communication protocols between the vessel’s Captain and the authorities were lacking.
Rocket Launch During Busiest Time of The Week
Having the world’s most important rocket launch site and one of the biggest cruise ports in the world in virtually the same place could be considered a potential hazard.
Yet, Port Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center launch pads are just a few miles apart. No wonder a problem came up during one of the busiest days of the week for cruise ships.
Harmony of the Seas had just departed Port Canaveral on January 30 when it sailed into the exclusion zone the Coast guard keeps during rocket launches. The launch was scrubbed just seconds before blast-off, with the launch director calling out, “Hold! Hold! Hold! Aborting launch auto. This is the launch director calling a hold. We have a red range for a fouled range, with a ship in the hazard area.”
Standing down from today's launch of COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation FM2 due to ship in the hazard area; team is setting up for next opportunity tomorrow, January 31 at 6:11 p.m. EST
The exclusion zones, also known as Launch hazard areas, are areas of the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Florida that are closed to maritime traffic during rocket launches. The rocket’s trajectory and payload define the launch hazard areas.
While the locations are communicated to ships, communication broke down due to the busy schedules on Sunday in Port Canaveral.
“This is the second-busiest cruise ship port in the world,” Capt. Mark Vlaun, head of the Jacksonville Coast Guard unit responsible for monitoring launch zones, said: “There are times, particularly like a Sunday night, when you’re going to have 11 to 15 cruise ships departing this port.”
The Coast Guard enforces the safety zones per Title 46 U.S.C. § 70002 and 70036. If a vessel does violate them, the Coast Guard may pursue action, including monetary fines or vessel control actions.
Although Royal Caribbean was found in violation during the January 30 launch, the Coast Guard did not say if and what fines would be handed to the cruise line. SpaceX finally managed to launch the Falcon 9 rocket a day later on the fifth attempt. Harmony of the Seas cruise remained unaffected.
New Measures Implemented
To ensure the same does not happen again, the Coast Guard has been working on implementing several new rules intended to prevent the same from happening again. However, some of the blame lies squarely with the maritime industry, which still relies on paper for disseminating information.
Capt. Mark Vlaun: “In the maritime industry, rocks don’t pop up overnight. Buoys don’t move every day. We can publish these on paper. Four or five days or even a week old is probably still good data. But five-day-old space launch information is not worth the paper it’s printed on.”
Photo Credit: Robert Michaud / Shutterstock.com
The changes include updated exclusion zones and new modern ways of disseminating launch updates to ship captains. The new rules also consider the possible delays a rocket launch could have on cruise ships.
If a launch were to delay a ship from coming into port, it could cause significant disruptions; tens of thousands of cruisers could see ripple effects that would lead to possible flight delays at airports and delayed departures for cruises.
To prevent this from happening, the Coast Guard is reviewing the routes cruise ships take from Port Canaveral, implementing consistent, predictable routes, which will help with de-conflicting issues before they arise.
Ships and rockets are not always a bad combination. This week guests onboard Carnival’s Mardi Gras had a front-row seat during a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Kennedy Space Center, just as the vessel left port.
Some guests booked on upcoming Cunard Line sailings have had their cruises unexpectedly canceled. The cruise line is citing crew shortages for the disruption, as guest capacity will need to be limited in order to deliver their signature impeccable service.
A number of sailings on the Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 are being affected.
Crew Shortages Impacting Cunard Line
Ongoing travel difficulties across international borders are making it challenging for Cunard Line to fully staff its vessels, which often have some of the best guest-to-crew ratios for larger ships in the cruise industry.
The difficulties are related to COVID-19 travel restrictions, which often include testing requirements, quarantine periods, and other health and safety protocols that can make it difficult for crew members traveling through multiple countries to join a ship.
Necessary visas and other international documentation can also make travel challenging at the moment, especially for crew members.
In communication with guests, the cruise line has stated, “As you may have seen in the news, the wider impact of COVID-19 is affecting hospitality and is disrupting airlines and as such this is impacting the number of crew members we are able to get to our ships.”
Photo Credit: Jane Rix / Shutterstock.com
With fewer crew members on board, lines and waits may be longer and not all onboard services could be offered.
“We naturally want to ensure that all guests across the fleet experience the high standards of service on board that they would expect from Cunard and which we are committed to delivering,”the notice continued. “We are therefore limiting the number of guests sailing as we build crew numbers back up.”
Another statement reads, “Due to our framework of protocols to protect the health and wellbeing of all crew and guests we are currently operating at a reduced guest capacity and we need to take an approved number of staterooms out of service.”
There is no word on whether any bookings for Queen Anne have been affected, though the new ship is not scheduled to set sail until January 2024.
Thus far, the impacted sailings are reported to be during June and July 2022, though some sailings in August may also be affected.
While there has been no direct announcement about which guests, cabins, or sailings are immediately impacted, Cunard Line has been contacting guests directly if they are affected.
It is important to note that the impacted sailings are still planned to set sail, but will host fewer guests in order to maximize service and ensure a high quality experience.
Compensation Offered
All guests whose bookings have been canceled are automatically being given a 100% refund of their cruise fare, taxes, and prepaid items. Refunds are being processed back to the original form of payment, with no penalties deducted.
Photo Credit: Wayleebird / Shutterstock
In addition, all affected guests are also being given a 25% Future Cruise Credit (FCC) based on their fare paid, which can be used on any future Cunard Line sailing.
The FCC must be booked no later than December 31, 2024, which means it may also be able to be used aboard the new Pinnacle-class Queen Anne when she debuts at the beginning of that year.
Other Crew Shortages Impacting Sailings
Cunard Line is not the first to be affected by crew shortages. Just one month ago, P&O Cruises canceled seven sailings of Arcadia just after the vessel officially reentered service, citing crew availability.
At that time, P&O Cruises stated, “The current and extraordinary impact of COVID-19 in the UK, in the wider hospitality, service, and airline industry as a whole, has resulted in a temporary disruption to crewmembers available to join our ships.”
Both P&O Cruises and Cunard Line are based out of the United Kingdom, with Arcadia and Cunard’s Queen Victoria sailing from Southampton, while Queen Mary 2 is sailing various itineraries from Southampton, New York, and Hamburg during the affected time period.
Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth is currently repositioning from Southampton to Vancouver to begin her summer season in Alaska in early June, and no reports have been confirmed of booking cancelations for that vessel.
With the weather warming up and restrictions lifting, many people are looking to book cruises for their upcoming vacation. For those who want to keep their teens entertained or indulge in a weekend of partying, we highlight the best party cruises.
This Mediterranean cruise line has recently gained popularity in the American market due to its family-friendly appeal. It also has several vessels specially equipped with activities to keep teens entertained.
The MSC Meraviglia is the newest ship in the fleet. It contains activities like a bowling alley, waterpark with a body slide, a sportsplex, 4D cinema, a Cirque du Soleil show, and two Formula 1 VR race cars.
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock.com
In addition to activities, the Meraviglia has two teen clubs, one for 12–14-year olds and another for 15-17-year-olds. The clubs have board games, air hockey, table tennis, and foosball.
Teens can sip on non-alcoholic cocktails, mix beats from the DJ music center, learn how to dance, stay up late at the disco, and challenge others at video games.
Royal Caribbean International
Cruise ships like Wonder of the Seas contain a Hideout Hangout designed especially for teens aged 13-17 years old. There is a dedicated area where they can chill by playing video games, jam out to music or movies, and relax on an outdoor patio.
Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean
Other cruise lines in the fleet have The Living Room and Fuel Teen Club geared towards this age group. They allow teens to freely come and go which makes this perfect for both age groups.
In addition, there is mini-golf, Spotlight Karaoke, the Ultimate Abyss waterslide, Aquawater shows (inTENse), zip line, Flowrider, rock climbing, ice skating, sports court, and an arcade.
Princess Cruises
The Emerald Princess may not be a large-scale party cruise, but it does have a great program for teens. The teen club aboard the Emerald Princess is known as “The Beach House” and contains a relaxing and modern vibe. It has movies, gaming competitions, classes, and sports contests.
Emerald Princess hosts “Voice of the Ocean”, designed after a popular talent show. With its partnership with Discovery, teens can earn from educational speakers about different destinations, and they can even go stargazing.
Photo Credit: Joseph Paguio / Shutterstock.com
There is also a sports court with a basketball hoop, sports tournaments, dance classes, parties, a nine-hole mini-golf course, and movies under the stars.
This cruise has been designated the best for activities and one of the best for teens. With five waterslides (the fastest at sea), four hot tubs, and two swimming pools, it is easy for teens to find activities that will keep them entertained.
Norwegian Cruise Line
The Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway class has a huge sports complex containing a rope course, basketball court, and rock-climbing wall. Teens also have their own club called “Entourage.” During the day, it is a place for themed events, theater/fashion workshops, pool parties, and other events. During the night, it transforms into a teen dance club.
Photo Credit: Mia2you / Shutterstock
These cruise ships contain incredible live entertainment like stand-up comedy, productions, and their own rendition of the popular game show, “Deal or No Deal.” Plus, with freestyle dining, families can enjoy the flexibility of when and where to dine while they sail.
Disney Cruise Line
Most Disney ships are known for their programming for a much younger crowd. However, many of them are known for their dedication to teens as well. Furthermore, Disney is not just for little kids but can be enjoyed by the entire family.
For entertainment, teens can enjoy the AquaDuck water coaster, virtual porthole windows, and Midship Detective Agency interactive scavenger hunts. Parents and teens can download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App for the full range of available activities.
Photo Credit: Jen Helton / Shutterstock
Many cruise ships like the Disney Fantasy also have clubs for teens and tweens. Edge is for ages 11-14, and Vibe is for ages 14-17. Both clubs contain video/gaming systems, high-tech music, scavenger hunts, dance floors, karaoke, themed nights, and various events.
Disney has also launched a new ship called “Disney Wish”, with the teen clubs mentioned above, cinematic dining experiences with Marvel characters, and the Hero Zone with physical challenges and game shows.
Best Party Cruises for Young Adults
Carnival Cruise Lines
Many Carnival cruise ships contain places like The Brass Magnolia, which incorporates the New Orleans motto of flavor, fun, and a great time. Fortune Teller is where suspense and mystery await around every corner. Talented bartenders serve up a plethora of spirits just waiting for your enjoyment in a party-like atmosphere.
If you want to party all night under the stars, there is the Red Frog Tiki Bar, the Havana Bar and Pool, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, and Playlist Productions for endless entertainment.
Carnival Cruise Line is the most popular among young adults due to its “fun factor”. This cruise line feels like having a non-stop festival while at sea offering pool parties, international DJs, dance classes, and more activities. Some contain a craft brewery containing their own craft beers.
Another reason for the popularity among young adults is Carnival’s low fees. They also aren’t known for charging for extras like other cruise lines. The only downside is that Carnival is also popular for families, so young adults may be sharing the cruise line with younger kids. However, if this isn’t a concern, this can be a great option for your cruise vacation.
Virgin Voyages
This is a unique cruise line created specifically for young adults. It focuses on a lively nightlife, a laid-back atmosphere, and offers an incredible dining experience.
Young adults can leave any formalities behind on this voyage. There are no established dining times as everything is very casual, and the nightlife provides an ongoing party atmosphere which is perfect for the best party cruises.
Scarlet Lady (Photo Courtesy: Virgin Voyages)
Virgin Voyages has made food their top priority. They have removed main dining rooms and buffets. Instead, they offer 20 restaurants that are onboard. Each one has a distinctive dining experience with exceptional menus generated by Michelin-starred chefs.
Entertainment is also a priority. Shows range from Cirque du Soleil to comedy and everything else you can imagine. Shows run less than one hour, so you can enjoy other activities while on the cruise ship.
At night, there are late-night parties, a tattoo and piercing parlor, rooftop pajama parties, and live DJs.
Royal Caribbean International
This cruise line is known for active young adults and caters to a younger crowd. It contains climbing walls, martini-mixing robots, surfing simulators, entertainment venues, and nightclubs.
Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean
Many cruise ships offer superb global dining experiences accompanied by luxurious resort-style pool decks providing a chill island vibe. Many also contain nine different bars on the ship.
Some cruise ships contain “Next Level Game Time” with glow-in-the-dark laser tag, bumper car showdowns, and Sky Pad. Passengers can enjoy dance classes, Flowrider, Seaplex, billiards, game shows, a music hall, live bands, a romantic movie night under the stars, and an incredible nightlife with locations throughout the ship.
Final Thoughts on Best Party Cruises
The challenge with many cruises is that they are geared toward families rather than singles. However, there are many cruises geared towards college spring breakers as well as many adults-only fleets.
There is certainly no shortage of quality entertainment onboard party cruise lines for young adults and teens. Whether you want to dance the night away, party like there is no tomorrow, or unwind with a drink, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
To celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, Grammy award-winning pop artist and television star Kelly Clarkson has announced that she is teaming up with Norwegian Cruise Line as part of the annual Giving Joy contest. Clarkson announced that she will be part of the festivities honoring the contest’s finalists onboard Norwegian Prima in October.
Clarkson to Perform at Award Ceremony
The Giving Joy program recognizes and celebrates the connection between travel and education by encouraging nominations of influential teachers in the U.S. and Canada.
This year, 100 teachers – 3 grand prize winners and 97 additional finalists – will win an exclusive sailing aboard Norwegian Prima, during the ship’s 5-night inaugural voyage from Galveston, Texas, from October 27-31, 2022.
Clarkson will be aboard that sailing and will perform live at the awards ceremony, as well as host a private meet-and-greet with the grand prize winners.
“Teachers deserve every recognition for their relentless commitment to inspiring students every day,”said Clarkson.“This community does incredible work, and through this annual program, I get to play a small role in showing our gratitude to these educators with an opportunity of a lifetime.”
“I can’t wait to celebrate the 100 deserving winners this October, as I welcome them to my home state of Texas before they set sail.”
Clarkson was named godmother to Norwegian Encore in 2019, the same year the contest began. Since then, Norwegian Cruise Line has awarded 130 teachers free cruises and given more than $185,000 to schools.
“Not only has Kelly been a wonderful friend of our Cruise Line since joining our NCL family as godmother to Norwegian Encore, but she has also been a steadfast supporter of educators through the years,”said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line.“Kelly shares our strong appreciation for this community of unsung heroes, making her the perfect partner to help us bring this special program to life once again.”
100 Teachers to Win in 2022
This year’s contest began accepting entries on May 2, and the nomination period will run through June 3. Eligible teachers must be currently employed at a public or private elementary, middle, or high school, or an accredited university or college in Canada (excluding Quebec) or the 50 United States (including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico).
Photo Courtesy: Norwegian Cruise Line
Public voting will determine the top 200 semi-finalists, and after their credentials are verified, the entries will be judged and the top 100 finalists and grand prize winners selected.
For the 2022 contest, not only will all the finalists and grand prize winners receive a cruise aboard the new and innovative Norwegian Prima, but the first, second, and third grand prize winners will also receive $25,000, $15,000, and $10,000 respectively for their schools, plus an additional 7-night cruise of their choice.
While its inaugural voyage in Europe was recently canceled due to supply chain concerns, Norwegian Prima is still poised for an on-time debut in North America.
The ship, the first of six vessels ordered for the line’s new Prima class, will introduce a variety of unique features, including the first three-level racetrack at sea, a charcoal sauna, record-breaking slides, spacious accommodations, and expansive deck space. The vessel will weigh in at 142,500 gross tons, with a guest capacity of 3,215.
Over the past few decades, cruise ships have become more diverse in the activities, restaurants, itineraries, and accommodations offered. This diversity has caused the industry to boom, becoming one that generates multiple billions of dollars.
Over 27 million people enjoy cruises annually. We outline the best cruise lines for adults, both adults-only and those with adult amenities.
Adult-only cruises are an emerging category within the cruise ship industry. As the name suggests, these are cruises geared only towards adults.
This trend resulted from the increasing popularity of adult-only areas scattered aboard ships. Many cruise lines took note of this and began offering cruises geared toward adult entertainment and activities.
These cruises are either adult-only, meaning there are no kids allowed, or they do not have child-friendly activities, which deters families from selecting them. The key to finding the best cruise line for adults is to look for ones without children’s facilities or with a focus on food, history, and culture.
U by Uniworld
U by Uniworld changed age restrictions in 2018 for the river cruises they offer in Europe. Originally, this cruise line was intended for millennials. The company still focuses on young adults in its marketing and branding, making them stand out over other lines.
Uniworld River Cruise (Photo Credit: Bjoern Wylezich / Shutterstock)
Itineraries have cultural programs, social events, and immersive activities. They perfectly cater to a millennial lifestyle where experience ranks higher over materialism. U by Uniworld offers cruises in Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia. Guests can enjoy bike rides along the countryside, cocktail workshops, kayaking, and walking tours.
Some of this cruise ship’s itineraries are unique, ranging from tent camping on the rooftop of the ship, to top deck wine and painting, to silent disco parties.
Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages launched in 2020 with a fully adults-only cruise. To go on board any of its ships, passengers must be over 18.
This cruise line caters to younger adults. Its lines are described as sexy, hip, and cool, and its goal is to draw in those who have never previously considered taking a cruise. Their amenities are cutting edge, with test kitchens, the largest daybed found at sea, and extravagant nightclubs.
Photo Courtesy: Virgin Voyages
The fleet contains three ships that cater to the adults-only crowd. The Scarlet Lady is a very modern, high-end ship accommodating 2,770 passengers. Its focus is on the mind and body.
Adults can expect pampering at a spa with hydrotherapy pools, salt rooms, quartz beds, and mudrooms. An outdoor yoga area and sundeck are flanked by running tracks. It also has a boxing ring, indoor gym, and group classes. Guests can expect entertainment and culinary venues geared toward adults.
Viking Ocean Cruises
This line has a strict 18 years or older policy. They have created adults-only cruises from their inception. Revolutionizing the river cruise industry, they have stylish ships appealing to older generations. Viking Ocean Cruise’s dedication to catering to this niche has allowed them to be the leading cruise line for adults.
Photo Credit: Anton Garin / Shutterstock.com
Itineraries generally focus on food, culture, and onshore activities, making them ideal for a longer and more sophisticated type of cruise. Instead of non-stop entertainment and continually open buffets, passengers can relax between ports. With a Viking cruise, passengers can expect a cruise completely designed to immerse them in the destination.
Activities include wines guided using a sommelier, guest lectures, and cooking classes. They also have opportunities for relaxation with various spas, baths, and pools.
Cruises with Adult Amenities
Several cruise lines cater mostly to adults but aren’t classified as adults only. They are an excellent choice when you want a more mature and sophisticated cruise. You will not find many children on board, but there may be the occasional family.
Azamara Cruises
Azamara discourages families with children under 18 as the atmosphere and experiences onboard cater directly to adults. There are no activities for children, nor are there babysitting services. Azamara has clearly established itself as geared toward adults.
Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia / Shutterstock
It is a great cruise line for adults who enjoy immersing themselves in a destination, spending leisure time in ports, enjoying local cuisine, and shopping in high-end boutiques.
Oceania Cruises
This cruise line caters mostly to adults. While babies and children are permitted, there are restrictions and few services. The minimum age is one year, and those under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. They also must remain in the same cabin as an adult.
Courtesy: Oceania Cruises
These ships contain many services and facilities focused on adults, like an artist loft, a culinary center, a running track, and lecture rooms. They are also very affordable for a small ship catering to adults.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival’s Serenity Adult-Only Retreat is what originally sparked its adult-only cruises. Carnival tends to be family-friendly for the most part. However, its 21-plus retreats have become very popular among adults.
Photo Credit: LisaCarter / Shutterstock
Adults can stay on the same cruise as children, but while the young ones are engaged in themed events or activities, adults can be relaxing, soaking up some sun, or enjoying a drink at the bar.
Carnival also has honeymoon cruises with adult-only areas. There are several bars geared towards those over 21 accompanied by nightclubs with the latest hits and a Cloud 9 Spa for relaxation.
Silversea
This cruise line does not accept children over six months, and there are limited children’s programs onboard. It does not offer kids’ entertainment, supervision, or childcare services. While children can board the ship, there are no activities for them to enjoy, limiting the number of families who would embark on this cruise.
Photo Courtesy: Silversea
Silversea provides guests with a luxurious experience. It is one of the top luxury lines in the world, offering all-inclusive cruises to exceptional destinations. It has butlers, first-class wines, award-winning entertainment, and all-day gourmet dining. This cruise has been dubbed a high-end cruise for adult guests.
Seabourn Cruises
Seabourn has cruises focused on all-inclusive adults. There are no children’s programs, and it is highly unusual to see any children. While parents are permitted to take children, they would be responsible for taking care of them at all times.
Seabourn Cruises are wonderful for travelers who want to experience lavish cuisine aboard a small and intimate ship. It offers exceptional cuisine, relaxed luxury, and world-class services. They also have exceptional cruise destinations.
Activities are geared more towards relaxation with an on-deck yoga stretch, lounging on private verandas, attending lectures, watching movies in bed, or swimming in the pool. For physical activities, guests can enjoy a nine-hole putting course, or go to the casino.
Entertainment onboard includes the Grand Salon, which has cooking demonstrations, stand-up comedy, cabaret performances, and live music. Guests can also enjoy the various lounges and bars.
Windstar Cruises
This cruise line cannot accommodate kids under eight. Passengers under 21 need to be accompanied by an adult who is a minimum of 25 years or older.
Equipped with an intimate environment and elegant design, this small ship is adult-oriented and not for kids. There are no child-friendly activities, services, entertainment, or childcare, and they don’t offer a child rate. You must pay a third-person rate for each child.
Photo By: Windstar Cruises
The atmosphere is that of being on a private yacht. There are only 148-342 guests on each voyage. Guests can experience hidden beaches, sail into small ports, visit penguins, experience spicy Norwegian Bacalao stew, and explore various cultures.
Windstar offers the most exceptional culinary experiences led by globally-recognized chefs. The Star Plus Class features additional space, a new pool, and two new restaurants. This cruise line places visitors in the lap of luxury throughout their excursion.
Royal Caribbean
This Royal Caribbean International cruise line specializes in an over-the-top experience. The company sets itself apart by pushing the possibilities for entertainment, activities, and technology.
Depending on the season, there may be some younger children on board. However, since its inception, Royal Caribbean International has marketed itself as one of the best cruise ship lines for adults.
Royal Caribbean contains an adult-only solarium providing relaxation with padded loungers, refreshing pools, a complete liquor bar, and hot tubs. To gain entrance, people need to be over 16. This vessel is often chosen because it is the largest globally.
Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean
In the Oasis or Quantum-class ships, many venues and activities are strictly for adults. The Boleros Latin Bar and English Pub are home to adults of varying ages and are perfect for singles or those without kids.
This ship does have activities to keep children entertained from dusk until dawn, allowing adults to enjoy some time for themselves. Royal Caribbean has Quest Game Show, nightly single cruiser rendezvous, and silent disco parties.
While this cruise still allows children, there are enough options for kids to enjoy that it feels like an adults-only cruise.
Holland America Line
Holland America tends to cater to an older demographic, but it does have exceptional service and dining at sea. Guests will enjoy top-notch live music with blues and classic rock genres.
Princess Cruises
While it has more of a “Love Boat” type of feel, this line has been known for specializing in events and weddings. It is a cruise line for all ages, but the average guest tends to be between 45 and 70 years old.
Photo Credit: Anutr Yossundara / Shutterstock.com
Princess Cruises caters to older people by incorporating longer and more exotic destinations through the Panama Canal and Alaska.
Final Thoughts
Adults need to recharge, too! Enjoy some alone time with these best cruise lines for adults. While there are several geared to adults, some offer children’s services as well.
With this niche gaining popularity, many cruise lines have either categorized these cruises as adults only or have discouraged families from attending. By eliminating or scaling back services for children, the cruises are less appealing for families as they will have to tend to their kids.
Therefore, guests aboard these ships can expect to see very few, if any, children. This makes it an enjoyable, relaxing vacation away from home, allowing you to recharge and re-energize. Many of them cater directly to what adults enjoy, bringing a range of culinary experiences, exotic destinations, and learning experiences to their clientele.
Whether you choose an adult-only vacation or one with children’s amenities, you will have an enjoyable time on any one of these cruise ships.
Loyalty programs offer incentives to cruisers who stick with their favorite cruise lines, and MSC Cruises has announced even more great reasons to remain loyal with a recent overhaul of the MSC Voyagers Club.
Included are new benefits and double points for earlier bookings to help members gain exclusive rewards even more quickly as they sail with MSC Cruises.
Voyages Selection Discount Replaced
One of the biggest changes to the Voyagers Club, which was last overhauled in 2015, is the removal of the limited “Voyages Selection” discounts that previously applied only to a few upcoming cruises in MSC Cruises’ global calendar.
Now, Voyagers Exclusives offers greater incentives for members, all of whom will automatically benefit from a minimum 5% discount for any cruise booked at any time.
“The new Voyagers Exclusives scheme is set to reward each and every member of our loyalty program with every booking made for our entire portfolio of ships and itineraries year round,” said Achille Staiano, Vice President of Global Sales for MSC Cruises.
The earlier a guest books their upcoming cruise, the greater the discount they can receive.
Any sailing booked at least six months prior to departure will result in a further 5% discount, on top of the minimum 5% loyalty discount. Silver, Gold, and Diamond tier members who book at least nine months ahead of departure will also receive onboard credit of €50 or $50 (USD) per member, depending on departure port and applicable currency.
For a limited time, MSC Cruises is also offering a new Summer 2022 promotion exclusively for the MSC Voyagers Club. Members who book any cruise before June 30, to sail before October 30, 2022, will receive the onboard credit plus 700 extra points on top of the usual 5% discount.
The extra points will be credited to the guests’ account before departure, helping them to reach the next status level faster, and enjoy their new benefits sooner.
Points Doubling for Earlier Bookings
Another great benefit is that Voyagers Club members who book more than 12 months in advance will now receive double points for their booking, allowing even faster advancement through the program’s benefit tiers.
“We know that our Voyagers Club members are always keen to move from one tier up to another and the double points available for bookings made 12 months prior to departure are a fast track to success on all counts,” said Staiano.
Photo Credit: aappp / Shutterstock
Guests earn points based on their type of booking, pre-paid purchases before sailing, and onboard purchases. The MSC Voyagers Club had five tiers of benefits, with members entitled to exclusive benefits as soon as they begin earning points.
“All-in-all, Voyagers Exclusives has benefits for everyone who joins up when they book a holiday at sea with MSC Cruises,” said Staiano.
Depending on the program tier a guest has earned, benefits include welcome back cocktail parties; discounts for onboard photos, fitness packages, laundry services, internet connectivity, and spa treatments; priority debarkation for tender ports; and a variety of free gifts. Discount amounts increase in higher program tiers.
Guests’ memberships and points totals remain valid for three years after a cruise. If a guest does not sail with MSC Cruises for 36 months, their membership is invalidated and points are lost, though guests can re-enroll with their next sailing. Expired points are not reinstated, but re-enrolling members will get a fixed amount of 500 points added to their accounts.
Use MSC Status Match for Immediate Benefits
Frequent cruisers who are loyalty members of other cruise lines, hotels, or tour operators can also take advantage of MSC Cruises’ Status Match incentive, which assigns new members’ to the proper Voyagers Club tier based on their loyalty earnings with other programs.
Registration for status match consideration must be done pre-cruise and is not available onboard MSC Cruises’ ships.
Benefits between programs are compared, and travelers are assigned to the Voyagers Club tier that most closely matches the benefits they have received with similar programs. Guests may only use status match comparison one time, even if they belong to multiple loyalty programs.
Vancouver is a stunning waterfront city located in British Columbia, Canada and a popular departure point for cruises to Alaska, Hawaii and California. If you’re lucky enough to be departing on a cruise out of Vancouver, or perhaps staying in the city before or after your cruise, you may need to know the best hotels near Vancouver cruise port for your stay.
Vancouver has a modern award-winning cruise ship terminal at Canada Place. Located downtown in the heart of this compact modern city, there are plenty of hotels near Vancouver cruise port to suit all budgets and tastes.
There are many good reasons why booking a night in a Vancouver hotel near the cruise port is a smart move. Arriving in the city the day before your cruise departure means you can relax, knowing that flight delays, bad weather or unforeseen travel disruptions cannot cause you to miss your cruise as you’re already in the city.
Choosing a Vancouver hotel close to the cruise port means you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making a relaxed trip to the cruise terminal to check-in. On your return, why not enjoy a few days in a downtown hotel exploring this world-class city with its many outstanding sights, boat trips, museums and natural beauty?
We’ve picked the best and closest hotels near Vancouver cruise port as well as listing both the cheapest hotels and luxury hotels closest to the cruise terminal. We’ve also found some Vancouver hotels with a cruise shuttle service to make the transfer to and from the port very convenient and stress-free.
Check out our list of the best hotels near Vancouver cruise port to suit your budget and requirements!
Located on the waterfront near Canada Place, Fairmont Pacific Rim offers incredible views across the harbor to the North Shore Mountains. This ultramodern five star hotel near Vancouver cruise port is one of the best luxury hotels in the city.
Just a four-minute stroll from the cruise ship, it makes a glamorous statement of opulence with marble pillars and golden chandeliers. Elegantly furnished rooms are complemented by sophisticated bars, a rooftop pool, restaurant, nightclub and paid parking onsite.
Distance from port: 0.2 miles
Hotel address: 1038 Canada Place, Vancouver
Shuttle? Yes
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Vancouver
Check out the Hampton Inn and Suites located in downtown Vancouver. There are classic rooms available that include Wi-Fi, desks, TVs and amenities such as a microwave, mini fridge and a coffee maker. Suites offer separate living spaces with an additional sofa bed and small kitchen area.
You’ll be just a five-minute walk from the SkyTrain Station and only 15 minutes from False Creek. This hotel offers guests a free breakfast each morning. There is also a fitness room, sauna and whirlpool on the rooftop and a business center with multiple meeting rooms. You are allowed to park underground while staying here for an additional fee.
Distance from port: 0.76 miles
Hotel address: 111 Robson Street, Vancouver
Shuttle? Yes
Landis Hotel
The smart Landis Hotel and Suites has 53 newly renovated rooms and suites with two bedrooms as well as a luxury penthouse. Ideal for a longer stay in Vancouver, this mid-range hotel has paid parking onsite, a pool, fitness gym and a business centre to cater for both business and leisure guests.
Air-conditioned rooms include blackout curtains, cable TV, tea/coffee maker as well as a microwave and refrigerator in the kitchenette. Make use of the safe and daily housekeeping during your stay.
Distance from port: 1.0 miles
Hotel address: 1200 Hornby Street, Vancouver
Shuttle? Yes
Hyatt Regency Vancouver
The Hyatt Regency Vancouver is located a short distance from the Vancouver Convention Center, between the Vancouver Aquarium and the VanDusen Botanical Gardens. It offers Park and Stay packages for those departing on a cruise.
High-end rooms come with free Wi-Fi, a large flat screen TV, iPod docks and comfy beds. Upgraded rooms have access to a balcony with stunning view. Spacious rooms and suites boast a mini fridge, coffee maker and a work desk. During your stay, don’t forget to take advantage of the outdoor heated pool and hot tub. There’s also a gym, a Starbucks, restaurant and a bar in the hotel.
Distance from port: 0.49 miles
Hotel address: 655 Burrard Street, Vancouver
Shuttle? Yes
Closest Hotels to Vancouver Cruise Port
The Pan Pacific Hotel in Vancouver (Photo Credit: Jennifer Jessica Peck / Shutterstock)
Pan Pacific Vancouver
You’ll find the five star Pan Pacific Vancouver right above the Canada Place Convention Center and cruise terminal, so it doesn’t get closer than this! Many rooms have breathtaking views of the mountains and waterfront and it’s just a short walk from high-end shopping.
If you opt for a suite, you’ll get stunning panoramic views that can be enjoyed from your private balcony or from the outdoor heated saltwater pool and hot tub. Bathrooms have luxurious Italian marble and all the rooms have modern furniture and decor.
There is free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast as well as hors d’oeuvres in the evening. The hotel has a casual dining cafe as well as an upmarket restaurant. Don’t miss the chance for pampering in the luxury spa.
Distance from port: 300 feet
Hotel address: 999 Canada Place Way, Vancouver
Shuttle? No, but there is a shore to ship luggage transfer service by hotel staff
Fairmont Waterfront
The Fairmont Waterfront Hotel is an easy four-minute walk from the Waterfront Station, making it one of the closest hotels to the cruise port. Depending on which room you choose, you may get views of the harbor, mountains or downtown. For cruisers, this luxury hotel near Vancouver cruise port is a five-minute walk away from Canada Place Convention Center.
Premium rooms in this hotel offer floor-to-ceiling windows, along with TVs and coffee machines. If you opt for a suite, look forward to higher ceilings, terraces, separate living spaces, and your own wet bar and whirlpool bath. There is room service available 24/7 and the hotel has a luxury restaurant, ballroom and a heated rooftop pool.
Distance from port: 0.15 miles
Hotel address: 900 Canada Place Way, Vancouver
Shuttle? No, but connected directly to the cruise ship terminal
Kingston Hotel
The Kingston Hotel is another hotel near Vancouver cruise port that is a great place to stay. Across the street there is a casual restaurant and bar with a gorgeous patio. Located in a 1910 heritage building, the hotel itself is right in between the Vancouver City Center Station for the SkyTrain and the Pacific Center Mall.
The rooms come with en suite bathrooms, traditional decor, free Wi-Fi and flat screen TVs. There is a continental breakfast available daily and a communal living room.
Distance from port: 0.62 miles
Hotel address: 757 Richards St, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
Blue Horizon Hotel
The Blue Horizon Hotel is a high-rise with corner rooms and balconies offering amazing views of the harbor. This Travelers’ Choice awarded hotel has modern decor and tasteful furnishings in each room. It is a seven-minute walk from stunning waterfront dining at Harbor Green Park. You’ll also be close to the shopping area in Bentall Center.
Each room has a balcony, a mini fridge, a Keurig coffee maker, iPod dock, a flat screen TV and Wi-Fi. One bedroom suites offer stunning water views, a separate living room and pull-out sofa bed. This boutique hotel has a bar and coffee shop and excellent amenities such as fitness centre and business hub.
Distance from port: 0.75 miles
Hotel address: 1225 Robson St, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
Hotels Near Vancouver Cruise Port with Shuttles
Photo Credit: Oleg Mayorov / Shutterstock
Days Inn by Wyndham Vancouver Downtown
Just a five-minute walk away from the Canada Place cruise terminal Days Inn by Wyndham in downtown Vancouver combines affordability with convenience. It’s one of the closest hotels neat Vancouver cruise port. The Waterfront SkyTrain is nearby for visitors who don’t want to rent a car.
Each hotel room comes with a TV, desk, coffeemaker, and free Wi-Fi. For a longer stay, upgrade to a suite and enjoy a sitting room, microwave and mini-fridge. The hotel has a meeting room, business center and a restaurant onsite along with paid parking.
Distance from port: 0.31 miles
Hotel address: 921 W. Pender Street, Vancouver
Shuttle? Yes
Best Western Plus Uptown Hotel
Close to Vancouver Pacific Central Station, the Best Western Plus Uptown Hotel is a beautiful place to stay on a budget. It’s within walking distance from the historic Gastown quarter and Vancouver Art Gallery in downtown.
This hotel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat screen TV, Keurig coffee maker, microwave and mini fridge. Rent a suite and enjoy a sofa, whirlpool bath in your room and stunning views of the city. This hotel has a great Italian restaurant and bar on-site as well as a business center and gym.
Distance from port: 1.96 miles
Hotel address: 205 Kingsway, Vancouver
Shuttle? Yes
Luxury Hotels near Vancouver Cruise Port
Exchange Hotel (Photo Credit: Benson Truong / Shutterstock)
Exchange Hotel Vancouver
Built in 1929 to house the Vancouver Stock Exchange, the Exchange Hotel is now one of the most exclusive boutique hotels near Vancouver cruise port. It’s in the heart of the CBD and was designed to LEED Platinum environmental standards with a full range of rooms, suites and amenities.
As well as a gym, pool, bar/lounge, up-market Mediterranean restaurant and fitness center, this four star hotel has electric car charging points and valet parking.
Distance from port: 0.3 miles
Hotel address: 475 Howe Street, Vancouver
Shuttle? Yes, by private car transfer
Auberge Vancouver Hotel
The Auberge Vancouver Hotel is best known for having rooms with amazing views of the mountains and the waterfront. It’s also less than a 10-minute walk away from popular downtown attractions including shopping and fine dining.
This hotel has modern interior design and each room comes with a flat screen TV, microwave, mini fridge and a Keurig coffee maker. There’s an indoor swimming pool and a hot tub in addition to the fitness center, saunas, steam rooms and squash courts.
Distance from port: 0.24 miles
Hotel address: 837 Hastings St W, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
Residence Inn by Marriott Vancouver Downtown
The Residence Inn by Marriott in downtown Vancouver is a high-rise hotel that’s convenient for visiting attractions such as the Vancouver Art Gallery and Vancouver Aquarium. Studios come with complete kitchens, desks, a flat screen TV with cable, and free Wi-Fi.
This hotel also offers a penthouse suite with a separate living area and private balcony with stunning views of the waterfront. Every day there is free breakfast and complimentary snacks in the evening. Don’t forget to relax in the indoor pool and hot tub or take advantage of the gym and business center.
Distance from port: 1.08 miles
Hotel address: 1234 Hornby Street, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
Cheap Hotels near Vancouver Cruise Port
YWCA Hotel in Vancouver (Photo Credit: Jennifer Jessica Peck / Shutterstock
YWCA Hotel Vancouver
TheYWCA Hotel in Vancouver is a comfortable two-star hostel/hotel near Vancouver cruise port and just a four-minute walk from the SkyTrain Station. You can easily access explore downtown Vancouver using this public transportation. Bedrooms are private and sleep 1-5 guests as well as larger dormitories.
They have free Wi-Fi along with a mini fridge, work desk and a shared or private bathroom. There are three kitchens within the lobby, next to the cafe. Guests can also make use of the meeting room, TV lounge and parking for an additional fee.
This hostel-like hotel is a short walk away from popular tourist attractions including the Rogers Arena and the Vancouver Aquarium.
Distance from port: 0.72 miles
Hotel address: 733 Beatty Street, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
Hotel Ambassador
This economy-priced hotel is a little further from downtown than the other options, but the price makes it a steal. The Hotel Ambassador is an 11-minute walk away from downtown and is close to both Stanley Park and Canada Place. It’s located above a great bar and restaurant for the ultimate convenience.
The rooms are complemented by shared bathrooms and guest lounge with TV and free Wi-Fi. If you want to catch a sports game on the television, you can do so at the bar and grill inside the hotel. There is also a communal kitchen where you can make your own meals.
Distance from port: 1.07 miles
Hotel address: 1212 Granville St, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
Victorian Hotel
The Victorian Hotel is a two star budget hotel within easy reach of trendy bars and restaurants. If you like the theater, you can take a short bus ride over to Tickets Tonight for cheap theater tickets. The rooms in the hotel are decorated with antique furniture and modern decor, a flatscreen TV and free Wi-Fi.
There are upgraded rooms available with gorgeous hardwood floors, chandeliers and sitting areas near large windows. The Victorian Hotel has complimentary breakfast in addition to the open kitchen that serves European dishes.
Distance from port: 0.44 miles
Hotel address: 514 Homer St, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
Patricia Hotel
If you’re on a budget, you won’t find a hotel near the Vancouver cruise port that’s closer and cheaper than the Patricia Hotel. It’s just a block from Chinatown and five blocks from Gastown. You’ll be within walking distance of popular restaurants and bars. If you’re seeing a concert or have tickets to a game, BC Place’s Stadium is just a five-minute taxi ride away.
Tastefully furnished, each guest room has a private bathroom, cable TV,and free Wi-Fi. You can upgrade to a room with a mini fridge, stunning views of the city, and a claw-foot bathtub. There is an on-site bar, a relaxing lobby with a piano and parking available for an additional fee.
Distance from port: 0.89 miles
Hotel address: 403 Hastings St E, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
Barclay Hotel
The two star Barclay Hotel is right next to Port Alberni Highway. If you like to go golfing or you’re interested in local culture, you’ll be close to both the Alberni Golf Club and the Port Alberni Maritime Discovery Center. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. There is a coffee machine in all rooms. There is paid parking nearby.
Distance from port: 0.84 miles
Hotel address: 1348 Robson St, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites IHG Vancouver Downtown
If you like to be close to shopping, theHoliday Inn Hotel and Suites in downtown Vancouver is a short walk from all the shops on Robson Street. You will also be close to the Hornby Street Aquabus for a trip to Granville Island.
Rooms at this mid-range hotel have flat screen TVs, desks, mini fridges, coffee makers and free Wi-Fi. Upgrade to a suite where you can also enjoy a separate living area and a kitchenette. This hotel also has a lounge bar, gym, and an indoor heated pool.
Distance from port: 0.96 miles
Hotel address: 1110 Howe St, Vancouver
Shuttle? No
FAQ on Hotels Near Vancouver Cruise Port
How far is Vancouver cruise port from the airport?
Vancouver cruise port is just 10 miles from Vancouver (YVR) International Airport. There are several different transit options including ride share services, shuttles, taxis, rental cars, buses and more.
Which hotel is the truly closest to the Vancouver cruise port?
The hotel that is closest to the Vancouver cruise port is the five star Pan Pacific Vancouver right above the Canada Place Convention Center and 300 feet from the cruise terminal – it doesn’t get closer than this!
Where do the cruise ships leave from in Vancouver?
Vancouver has an award-winning cruise ship terminal at Canada Place right on the waterfront in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia. It is close to popular attractions, hotels and restaurants.
Where should I stay in Vancouver before a cruise?
If you’re planning to stay in Vancouver before a cruise, consider staying at the Pan Pacific Vancouver or the Fairview Waterfront, both located near the Canada Place Terminal just a short walk with your luggage from the cruise terminal.
Staying close to the port is a good idea as it reduces transfer costs and ensures that you make it to the port on time. If you’re on a tight budget, you could stay at the Kingston Hotel or Patricia Hotel.
Cruise ships are impressive structures. These vessels are enormous, towering 20 stories above the water. They are long and weigh an enormous amount.
Most people can only speculate how much a cruise ship weighs. We are here to provide you with the impressive facts and figures, according to popular cruise ship lines.
Many wonder how such a massive, heavy ship can glide so effortlessly across the seas. They float with such grace that people often wonder whether they weigh as much as their appearance leads them to believe.
Cruise ships are modern engineering wonders. Their designs are continually being improved. Many new ships are taking cues from ocean liners in terms of durability.
While it is true that cruise ships will either change course or slow down when approaching bad weather, the design is changing slightly to enable these ships to better handle storms when they arise.
AIDA Cruises introduced the AIDAprima, which added a vertical bow like classic ocean liners. The purpose of this style of bow is to enable the ship to handle tougher waters and provide a smoother experience while on board. The bow is placed at a 90° angle and allows this area to be filled with a greater amount of steel.
Most ships contain a bulbous bow that rests below the surface of the water. The design creates an improvement in the flow of water, generating reductions in drag and better fuel efficiency. The design of the AIDAprima allows it to cut through waves more efficiently.
Norwegian Cruise Line revealed that Project Leonardo would contain a slightly inverted blunt bow. Known as the “X-BOW,” it is curved backward to provide more volume in the ship’s fore. This makes the design of the bow particularly well-suited to sailing through rough waters.
The bow is designed to effortlessly slice through waves. It prevents them from crushing while at the hull and permits the cruise ship to proceed on a smooth course. Guests experience a softer motion with fewer vibrations or jarring.
Render Courtesy: Norwegian Cruise Line
This type of design displaces more water, beginning from the waterline. This design allows for quicker speed, lower air emissions, and improvements in fuel consumption.
Over half of new cruise ships ordered this year and in subsequent years will be powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), which is the cleanest fossil fuel available.
It is a better alternative to diesel fuel and reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emissions affecting climate change. Liquified Natural Gas contains almost zero emissions of sulfur.
How Can Something that Weighs So Much Effortlessly Glide Through Water?
The steel contained in cruise ships is what tends to make them so heavy. Generally, cruise ships contain steel that is thinner than the steel of ocean liners. However, with new changes being made to bows and design, we may see an increase in tonnage.
Yet despite the increased tonnage of these vessels, they are buoyant enough to slice through waves due primarily to design.
In order to float, cruise ships are required to displace a set amount of water. Additionally, large cruise ships will rest under 10 meters below the surface. This allows them to navigate through ocean water more easily than smaller ships. This allows for improvements in forward navigation despite their huge size.
Measuring a Cruise Ship’s Weight
Cruise ships are measured in gross registered tons. This unit of measurement is calculated from space. Tonnage is generally a measurement regarding the ship’s measurement. Thus, we automatically assume the weight of the ship is the gross tonnage. But this is not the case.
Gross tonnage is not a weighted measurement; it’s measured in volume. A cruise ship’s gross tonnage is determined by the volume inside. To put it in perspective, if you had 100 cubic feet containing closed space located on a cruise ship, it would register at one gross ton (GT).
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock
Today, ships weighing over 100,000 GTs are being designed at double the weight of the ships designed a century ago.
Heaviest Cruise Ships Globally
This is the gross tonnage of some of the largest cruise ships in the world:
Cruise Ship
Gross Tonnage
1. Wonder of the Seas
236,857
2. Symphony of the Seas
228,081
3. Harmony of the Seas
227,500
4. Oasis of the Seas
226,838
5. Allure of the Seas
225,282
6. Costa Toscana & Costa Toscana
185,000
7. P&O Iona
184,700
8. AIDAnova & AIDAcosma
183,900
9. MSC Grandiosa & MSC Virtuosa
181,541
10. Mardi Gras
180,800
Impressively, Royal Caribbean International pushes the boundaries of designing cruise lines each year. Symphony of the Seas had a long-standing record of being the heaviest and largest ship. Yet the recent addition this year of the Wonder of the Seas has pushed the limits even further.
In fact, Royal Caribbean’s fleet ranks in the top five of the largest and heaviest ships.
Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean
The second two on the list belong to Costa Cruises. In terms of weight, these ships are identical. P&O Cruises sneaks in at No. 7 with the Iona, while AIDA Cruises brings up the rear.
Larger cruise ships can accommodate more passengers. This equates to a ship that has increased tonnage. The bigger the vessel, the more space is available for relaxation, activities, or privacy. The cabins and activity spaces all add to the increased tonnage of the vessel.
In determining how much a cruise ship weighs, the average answer for a modern large ship is 200,000 GTs. A higher gross tonnage means more passengers, restaurants, entertainment, and activities can be contained within the ship.
With ships becoming larger, people can expect the gross tonnage to increase. However, this increase in gross tonnage may be due to improvements made in designs, not the increased capacity of more passengers, areas for entertainment, culinary experiences, etc.
Cruise lines will always strive to create bigger and better amenities on board. They will also strive to increase the number of passengers the vessel can comfortably hold. These increased activities will fill the cabin spaces and drive more revenue to the company. Yet with safety always being the primary concern, increases in weight may eventually be attributed to changes in design.
A search is underway for a male passenger overboard the Mardi Gras cruise ship, operated by Carnival Cruise Line. It occurred as the Carnival flagship was sailing back to Florida to end its seven-night Caribbean cruise.
Carnival Mardi Gras Overboard
The U.S. Coast Guard is searching for a man overboard Carnival’s Mardi Gras cruise ship. The cruise line confirmed on Saturday morning that the crew reported that an adult man went overboard in the early hours of Saturday morning.
According to passengers onboard, it occurred at approximately 1:00 AM, 55 miles off Port Canaveral, Florida.
At the time, the ship was heading back towards Port Canaveral, Florida, to end its seven-night Eastern Caribbean voyage, which included calls at Nassau in The Bahamas, Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, and Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Photo Credit: Marc Mayntz
Cruise Hive reached out to Carnival Cruise Line and received the following statement:“The crew of Carnival Mardi Gras reported to the U.S. Coast Guard that an adult male guest jumped overboard early Saturday morning during the ship’s return to Port Canaveral.”
The cruise line continued with,“The ship’s crew participated in search and rescue efforts until the ship was released by the U.S. Coast Guard, which continues the search. The Carnival Care Team is supporting the guest’s family. Mardi Gras has arrived to Port Canaveral and will be sailing its next itinerary. Our thoughts and prayers are with the guest and his family.”
Mardi Gras was initially involved in the search but was later released from its efforts by the U.S. Coast Guard. The Coast Guest continues to search the area at this time.
The Carnival Elation was also involved in the search effort early on and was also released. The fantasy-class vessel has already arrived back in Port Canaveral.
April 16 Departure Delayed
Due to the late arrival into Port Canaveral on Saturday morning, the following April 16 will be delayed by one hour. The cruise line sent an update to impacted guests saying,“The ship arrived into Port Canaveral later than scheduled this morning and this will impact your embarkation today.”
The cruise line continues with,“Please delay your Arrival Appointment by 1 hour (for example, 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM appointment will become 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM). Guests who arrive prior to their new time will be asked to return at their assigned time.”
Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line
The ship will sail a seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary with calls to Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Mahogany Bay. The ship is 180,800 gross tons with a guest capacity of 5,282 at double occupancy, along with 1,735 crew members.
There have been other overboard situations recently from Carnival cruise ships. The most recent was from the Carnival Horizon in March 2022, when a guest jumped off the vessel while sailing near the Turks and Caicos Islands. Also, in February 2022, a guest went overboard the Carnival Valor cruise ship while heading back to New Orleans.
This is developing news and Cruise Hive will update the post accordingly with any additional facts.
