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New Terminal Opens as MSC Seascape Arrives at Texas Homeport

Melissa Mayntz
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New Terminal Opens as MSC Seascape Arrives at Texas Homeport

Key Aspects:

  • Port of Galveston has officially opened Cruise Terminal 16, its fourth cruise ship terminal, on Friday, November 7.
  • MSC Seascape is now in Galveston and will welcome her first Texas guests on November 9, 2025.
  • The new terminal will be used year-round by MSC Cruises and every winter by Norwegian Cruise Line.

Everything is bigger in Texas and the Port of Galveston is getting bigger and better than ever with the opening of its fourth cruise terminal, Cruise Terminal 16, at 1602 Harborside Drive.

A ceremony was held on Friday, November 7, 2025 to officially open the new terminal in conjunction with welcoming MSC Seascape to her new homeport.

More than 200 port officials and local dignitaries were in attendance for the momentous occasion, along with representatives from both MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. Both MSC Cruises ships and Norwegian Cruise Line ships will utilize the new terminal.

“This is a tremendous milestone in the port’s history as a major U.S. cruise port,” said Rodger Reese, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO. “We welcome MSC Cruises as a new cruise partner, as well as a Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), which has committed to more sailings from Galveston.”

MSC Seascape will set sail on Sunday, November 9, for her first Texas-based sailing, a 7-night Western Caribbean voyage with calls to Costa Maya, Roatan, and Cozumel.

The 170,400-gross-ton ship will remain in Galveston year-round, bringing the MSC Cruises experience to up to 5,877 guests on each sailing.

“MSC Seascape is arriving in Galveston with true Texas flair, adding to the blend of European style and American comfort our guests love,” said Lynn Torrent, president of MSC Cruises North America.

“Expanding our North American footprint to Galveston and cutting the ribbon on the port’s brand-new Cruise Terminal 16 are exciting steps for us on our path to making MSC Cruises a household name in the North American market.”

Norwegian Viva will set sail from the new terminal for the first time following her European season. On November 28, she will depart Lisbon for a 15-night transatlantic cruise that will bring her to the Lone Star State.

The Prima-class ship’s sailings include 7- and 14-night options with visits to Mexico, Belize, and Honduras. In January 2026, her two 14-night sailings are Eastern Caribbean voyages that will visit Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Grant Turk, the Virgin Islands, and more.

Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal 16
Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal 16

Norwegian Viva‘s first departure from Galveston will be on December 13. While the ship is only homeporting from Galveston in the winter season, she will return in October 2026 as well.

Read Also: Who Owns MSC Cruises? Behind the Global Cruise Line

“We want to give a warm Texas welcome to MSC Cruises as the world’s third largest cruise line enters the Galveston market,” said Vic Pierson, Galveston Wharves Board Chairman. “Having MSC and Norwegian Cruise Line homeporting in Galveston says a great deal about our position in the U.S. and global cruise markets.”

More Improvements and Cruise Options at Port of Galveston

Both MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings committed to long-term partnerships with Galveston Wharves in 2024.

Those agreements helped fun the $154 million new terminal, which includes the 165,000-square foot terminal as well as a new parking garage and boarding bridges to service homeported ships.

“Today we’re celebrating a major port milestone and what it means to our community, cruise guests and port partners,” said Craig Brown, Galveston mayor. “This new terminal will generate jobs and economic growth for the region, exciting new cruise choices for our market, and growth opportunities for our port partners.”

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In 2026, it is expected that the Port of Galveston will welcome 445 sailings with nearly two million cruise passengers. This will be a new record for the port and showcases its growth and popularity with eager cruise guests.

In addition to MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, ships from Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Cruise Line all set sail from the Lone Star State.

McConaugheys Christen New Star Princess Ahead of First Fort Lauderdale Sailing

Lissa Poirot
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McConaugheys Christen New Star Princess Ahead of First Fort Lauderdale Sailing

Key Aspects:

  • Star Princess was officially named on November 6, 2025, with Camila and Matthew McConaughey serving as godparents.
  • The McConaugheys christened the ship using a bottle of their brand, Pantalones Organic Tequila.
  • A drone show and plague ceremony also took place before the ship begins its first season in the Caribbean.

Cruise guests gathering at Port Everglades on November 6, 2025, were treated to an unusually celebrity-heavy scene for a ship naming.

Camila and Academy Award winner Matthew McConaughey stepped into their newest maritime role as godparents of Princess Cruises’ Star Princess, officially christening before it began its inaugural Caribbean sailing.

But rather than breaking a bottle of champagne against the hull as in maritime tradition, the couple broke a bottle of their own Pantalones Organic Tequila brand, kicking off a new partnership with Princess Cruises.

The ceremony took place inside the ship’s Princess Arena and was hosted by TV personality Dawn McCoy.

Passengers, invited guests, and members of the media, including Cruise Hive, looked on as the pair delivered brief remarks and carried out the naming.

“It’s an honor to follow in the footsteps of past godparents and welcome Star Princess into the Princess fleet,” the McConaugheys said.

“We are excited to share this moment with the guests who step aboard – coming together with family and friends, making new memories, and sharing a Pantalones cocktail, or two.

Star Princess Naming Ceremony
Star Princess Naming Ceremony (Photos Credit: Catie Kovelman / Cruise Hive)

Princess Cruises President Gus Antorcha and Captain Gennaro Arma both participated in the ceremony, with Antorcha saying the naming ceremony is a “milestone filled with pride and joy.”

“We’re grateful to Matthew and Camila McConaughey for joining the Princess family and know their warmth and infectious spirit will always be felt throughout Star Princess,” he added.

The ceremony also included a live performance by nine-time Grammy winner and friend of the McConaugheys Sheryl Crow. A drone display capped the night, tying into the ship’s future deployment to Alaska. 

Star Princess’ First Season

The 177,800-gross-ton Star Princess is the second vessel in Princess Cruises’ newest class and can carry 4,300 guests. Following its naming ceremony, the vessel officially begins its Caribbean deployment on November 7, 2025, from its Fort Lauderdale homeport.

To kick off this special milestone, a plaque ceremony took place aboard the ship with Port Everglades officials officially welcoming Star Princess home.

Read Also: Port Everglades Terminals: What You Need to Know

The inaugural Caribbean voyage is a short, 3-night preview sailing to the cruise line’s private Bahamian destination, Princess Cays, and Nassau, with the ship returning to Fort Lauderdale on November 10, 2025.

Star Princess Open Deck
Star Princess Open Deck (Photo Credit: Catie Kovelman / Cruise Hive)

Her next voyages will be longer, beginning with a 5-night journey to the Dominican Republic and Turks and Caicos and then a 7-night Western Caribbean adventure to Belize, Honduras, and Cozumel, Mexico.

Star Princess will offer alternating 7-night Eastern and Western routes with 14-night options for those who want to sample both.

Guests onboard enjoy more than 1,500 balcony staterooms, including the new Sanctuary Collection suites and mini suites that come with an exclusive restaurant, adults-only deck space, and elevated amenities.

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Public spaces include a redesigned Piazza enclosed in a glass sphere and used as a central gathering area for dining and daily activities. Additional venues include O’Malley’s Irish Pub with expanded seating and Love by Britto, a specialty dining room tied to artist Romero Britto’s “Love” theme.

The vessel also debuts two original productions – Meridian and Illuminate – staged inside the Princess Area, while the Dome, a glass-covered top-deck venue, will host a Candlelight Concert Series.

After the vessel’s Caribbean deployment, Star Princess will reposition to Alaska in the spring of 2026 for a summer in the Last Frontier.

First Carnival Cruise Ship to Return to Jamaica for Port Visit

Melissa Mayntz
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First Carnival Cruise Ship to Return to Jamaica for Port Visit

Key Aspects:

  • Carnival Paradise will make a guest port visit to Jamaica on the ship’s November 10 departure.
  • The ship was scheduled to visit Montego Bay, but will be going to Ocho Rios instead.
  • Not all ships can visit Jamaica yet, but this is a great step in the nation’s recovery from Hurricane Melissa.

Just over two weeks since the country was devastated by Hurricane Melissa, one port in Jamaica is ready to welcome back cruise guests, at least in a limited fashion.

Carnival Paradise will be the first of Carnival Cruise Line’s ships to visit the Caribbean nation as tourists. The ship will not be going to the original port on its itinerary, Montego Bay, but will visit Ocho Rios instead.

Carnival Paradise‘s November 10, 2025 departure from Tampa is a 6-night Western Caribbean voyage with visits to Key West, Montego Bay, and Grand Cayman.

Naturally, booked guests have been wondering whether or not the visit to Jamaica would be possible, considering the damage and flooding caused by the Category 5 hurricane.

Carnival Cruise Line has notified guests that they will, in fact, be able to visit Jamaica during their sailing, though not quite at the planned port of call.

“We have been in close contact with Jamaican officials about our expected stop in Montego Bay for Thursday, November 13,” the email explained. “The city is still in recovery mode and regrettably, unable to accommodate our visit.”

At first, this is disappointing, but the notification goes on with good news.

“Currently, Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is more prepared to welcome cruise guests, so, we have revised our itinerary to call there instead,” the email confirmed.

Both Montego Bay and Ocho Rios are on Jamaica’s north shore, but Ocho Rios is located roughly 55 miles further east. Hurricane Melissa struck the western part of the country, and while the entire nation suffered from the devastating impact, Ocho Rios has been able to recover more quickly.

This does not mean the port will look pristine and as well-equipped as it may have been before the hurricane, but businesses will be open and ready to welcome cruise guests.

Visitors have a great opportunity to support Jamaica’s recovery by exploring the port, buying souvenirs, grabbing snacks, and otherwise enjoying their time in Ocho Rios.

“I encourage you to please think about taking an excursion from the ship,” John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador, urged. “We really want to support the local economy as much as we can, we want to keep you safe, so take an excursion.”

Different tours are available for guests to book online or through the Carnival Hub app, or they can be booked onboard at the Shore Excursions desk midship on Deck 7, Empress Deck.

Carnival Paradise Cruise Ship
Carnival Paradise (Photo Credit: DropAnchor9907)

“Thank you so very much for getting off the ship, maybe spending a few dollars at one of the shops or doing something in one of the markets,” Heald said. “I know how much they will appreciate you.”

Heald noted that guests will also have the opportunity to donate onboard the ship to help support the country’s recovery efforts in partnership with the cruise line’s generous $1 million relief donation to Jamaica.

The rest of Carnival Paradise’s itinerary is unchanged.

Are All Cruises Heading Back to Jamaica?

It is important for booked guests to realize that just because Carnival Paradise is able to arrange an alternative port and still visit Jamaica, this does not mean the island’s recovery is complete and all ships can resume.

For example, Carnival Liberty‘s November 9 departure from New Orleans was also scheduled to visit Montego Bay. An alternative port has been arranged for that cruise, and the ship will be sailing to Progreso, Mexico instead.

“It all depends on space at the pier and other operational factors,” Heald explained.

The Fantasy-class Carnival Paradise is one of the smallest ships in the Carnival fleet and can welcome 2,124 guests. Carnival Liberty is a mid-sized Conquest-class vessel that can welcome 2,980 guests.

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A smaller ship will be easier to accommodate while pier space may be limited or port personnel are short-staffed. Furthermore, if tour operations are more limited as locals rebuild, cruise lines will take that into account to be sure their guests will all have opportunities to enjoy the port.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has vowed that the country will be able to resume full tourism operations no later than December 15.

This is an ambitious goal, but Carnival Paradise‘s first port visit is certainly a great step in that direction.

In the meantime, multiple ships from multiple cruise lines will continue making relief visits to deliver critical supplies to help the people of Jamaica recover and rebuild.

Cruise Surge Positions Port Canaveral for Even Bigger Years Ahead

Melissa Mayntz
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Cruise Surge Positions Port Canaveral for Even Bigger Years Ahead

Key Aspects:

  • Port Canaveral saw an impressive $182 million in cruise-related revenue in fiscal year 2025.
  • This included 1,038 cruise ship calls, up 13% over 2024, with even more expected in fiscal year 2026.
  • A special note is that the port saw its 100 millionth cruise guest since homeport operations began in 1982.

Port Canaveral celebrated amazing growth and financial success with the annual State of the Port address on Wednesday, November 5.

Nearly 250 community, business, and government leaders were present for the report, which highlighted not only the port’s strong performance but also its economic contributions to the community.

The numbers for the port’s fiscal year 2025 (from October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025) are impressive and show fantastic growth and the overall impact of cruise travel on the Space Coast homeport.

The port brought in $182 million in revenue from cruise operations, by far the bulk of its revenue generation. This included 1,038 ship calls for the year, a 13% increase over 2024.

The vast numbers of cruise visitors to the region also drives economic growth for land-based businesses. The report notes that 27% of cruise guests spend a night in a local hotel before sailing to or from Port Canaveral, which amounts to 2.3 million room nights in the region.

This is a significant boost for local hotels and resorts, as well as restaurants, nearby attractions, ride share services, retailers, and other businesses.

“We have an increasing responsibility to drive economic value in our region,” noted Captain John Murray, Canaveral Port Authority CEO. “Our growth is boosting the local economy with increased business investments in Port District communities that are creating new jobs and a growing tax base of revenues for local municipalities.”

Captain John Murray
Captain John Murray (Courtesy Port Canaveral)

Of special note is a fantastic historical milestone for Port Canaveral. In April 2025, the port reached 100 million passenger movements since the very first cruise ship was homeported from its terminal – Scandinavian Sea set sail in 1982.

That 502-foot ship was a far bit different than the largest ship sailing from Port Canaveral today. Star of the Seas is currently the largest cruise ship in the world at 1,196 feet long, and she is offering 7-night Caribbean itineraries from the Space Coast.

2026 Looks Even Better

There is no sign that Port Canaveral’s growth is slowing, as projections for 2026 look even more promising.

The port is expected to homeport an astonishing 18 ships in the coming year, including vessels from Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises.

A total of 1,083 ship calls are currently scheduled, but of course, ship itineraries can be fluid depending on weather impacts and other operational concerns.

Read Also: Port Canaveral Raises Cruise Parking Fees

To support the growth of the second busiest cruise port in the world, Port Canaveral is investing $255 million in improvement projects. This includes adding 4,500 new parking spaces in garages and surface lots to ensure adequate facilities for more guests, as well as expanding Cruise Terminal 5 and Cruise Terminal 10 to service larger ships more efficiently.

New passenger bridges, roadway paving, channel dredging, and utility improvements are also part of the ongoing projects that will directly impact cruise guests.

Additional improvements are planned to expand cargo operations and support local boating and fishing, as well as enhance nearby camping and beach facilities.

“The Port has been a part of the local community for more than 70 years and has contributed significantly to the growth of the region,” Murray said.

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“It takes a total team effort to fulfill our mission day in and out, and one that is only possible thanks to the commitment of our employees, partners and the continued support of our Port community.”

Port Canaveral remains committed to offering the best possible experience to cruise guests while still supporting the local community, a mission it is fulfilling bigger and better than ever each year.

Cruise Passengers Concerned as FAA Cuts Flights at Major US Airports

Lissa Poirot
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Cruise Passengers Concerned as FAA Cuts Flights at Major US Airports

Key Aspects:

  • The FAA’s 10 percent air-traffic reduction may cause passengers to miss their flights into major cruise ports, raising the risk of missing embarkation.
  • Because most travel insurance policies exclude government-shutdown-related cancellations, passengers may have limited or no reimbursement for missed sailings.
  • Guests with upcoming cruises may want to switch flights to arrive earlier than expected to allow for delays or cancellations.

Cruise guests heading for upcoming cruises are bracing for widespread flight disruptions after the FAA confirmed it plans to reduce air traffic by 10 percent beginning Friday, November 7, 2025, across 40 major US airports.

The move, tied to the ongoing government shutdown and staffing limits among air traffic controllers, has cruise passengers scrambling for answers days before they are set to fly to their cruise port.

On Reddit, questions poured in from passengers with upcoming sailings. One user wrote, “So, with the FAA announcing flight cancellations starting this Friday, what’s the back up if your flight ends up getting cancelled?”

Another added, “We leave for a November 16 sailing next week and I’m started to get a little stressed.”

Many cruisers are trying to figure out what a 10 percent reduction actually means for their own itineraries. Some commenters advised preparing for long delays. Others suggested renting cars if driving is possible.

But some guests from the West Coast and Midwest quickly noted that driving across the country is unrealistic. “There is no world in which a rental car is a feasible option for me,” one flyer said.

Airlines are beginning to issue their own warnings. American Airlines told passengers it expects less impact on hub-to-hub routes but cautioned that regional flights may see heavier cuts. United Airlines issued a similar statement, promising to refund passengers for cancelled flights.

Travel insurance repeatedly came up in the online discussion, with multiple commenters reporting that their insurers would not cover missed cruises caused by a government shutdown unless the policy specifically lists shutdown-related disruptions as a covered event.

What an Air Traffic Cut May Mean

The FAA’s planned 10 percent reduction applies to 40 major US markets, including several airports tied to major cruise departure ports.

A cut of this size does not mean every airport loses the same number of flights. Instead, the FAA limits how many aircraft can take off and land per hour, and airlines must decide which flights to cancel, consolidate, or delay to meet those caps.

Among the most affected is Miami International Airport, the primary air gateway for PortMiami and a large hub for American Airlines. While hub-to-hub service on American Airlines should be less disrupted, Miami still falls under the FAA’s reduction plan.

Similar ripple effects may extend to Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Orlando, New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Houston because aircraft and crews frequently rotate through affected hubs even when their final destinations are not on the list.

Read Also: How to Enjoy a Cruise Vacation in Uncertain Times

Travel insurance has become a major point of confusion, as most standard travel insurance policies do not cover delays or cancellations caused by a government shutdown.

Policies that do offer broader protection, such as “Cancel For Any Reason” plans, may reimburse only a portion of prepaid cruise costs and often require passengers to cancel before departure.

Miami Cruise Port Road Signs
Miami Cruise Port Road Signs (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze)

Some passengers have already reported denied claims tied directly to shutdown-related flight disruptions.

This is why cruise lines and travel advisors routinely stress the importance of flying in at least one day before a cruise. Because ships do not wait for delayed passengers, arriving the same day as embarkation leaves guests vulnerable to missing the sailing entirely.

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Passengers concerned about the upcoming cuts still have a few strategies. Consider switching to earlier flights, whether a day or two early or first thing in the morning, which is less likely to be canceled during FAA reductions because airlines will protect morning departures first.

For those within a reasonable distance of their cruise port, car rentals or driving can provide a backup option. 

Two Livestreamers Kicked Off Royal Caribbean Ship After Misbehaving

Melissa Mayntz
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Two Livestreamers Kicked Off Royal Caribbean Ship After Misbehaving

Key Aspects:

  • Two social media streamers have reportedly been removed from Harmony of the Seas following a fight incident.
  • The ship’s November 2 sailing has multiple streamers onboard, and there has been a great deal of poor behavior.
  • This behavior is a violation of the cruise line’s Guest Conduct Policy, and different consequences are possible.

Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas is enjoying a 7-night cruise with two fewer guests following an incident that happened early in the sailing.

The Oasis-class ship departed Galveston, Texas on Sunday, November 2, 2025 for the Western Caribbean itinerary, and the first two full days of the ship were relaxing days at sea.

During that time, however, two livestreamers got into a tense situation that came to repeated blows. The two, identified as David Ryan and Dave Willis, were arguing over another streamer when punches were thrown.

The two men grappled, tossed their equipment around, and wrestled to the floor during the altercation.

Guests onboard Harmony of the Seas who witnessed the situation noted that the two men had reportedly been drinking throughout the evening. Both had been streaming repeatedly, recording their interactions, and the conversation was less than civil.

Other clips online show the same individuals and other streamers earlier in the sailing interacting with other guests, not always in polite ways. For example, several streamers were knocking on decorated stateroom doors and asking if the individuals were swingers, filming the entire time.

Another incident took place in the ship’s Studio B arena on Deck 4 during a game show event. One of the streamers was standing to record and blocking views, deliberately goading other guests nearby, and filming the interaction.

Security did intervene at the fight (as well as several times previously), and the men were removed when the ship reached Roatan, Honduras, ostensibly to make their own way home.

Cruise Streamers Misbehave on Harmony of the Seas
Cruise Streamers Misbehave on Harmony of the Seas

This would be consistent with Royal Caribbean’s Guest Conduct Policy. Any “verbally abusive or offensive language” is prohibited, as is any abusive, discourteous, or disruptive behavior.

Any guests who violate the policy are subject to various security measures, including but not limited to:

  • Intervention by security personnel
  • Removal of onboard privileges, which could include being confined to one’s stateroom
  • Being removed from the vessel
  • Complete ban from future cruises

At this time, it is clear that the two individuals were removed from Harmony of the Seas. The pair was left in Roatan, Honduras, on November 5. However, there is no confirmation about whether or not they have been banned from the cruise line or other lines in the Royal Caribbean Group.

Cruise Hive has reached out to Royal Caribbean about the incident, but has not yet heard back as of this writing.

Read Also: Do Cruise Ships Have Jails? Here’s the Truth!

Harmony of the Seas‘ itinerary has not been impacted by the unfortunate incident. The ship is visiting Costa Maya on Thursday, November 6, and will visit Cozumel on Friday, November 7, before another day at sea, before she returns to Galveston on Sunday, November 9.

Should Streaming Be Banned From Cruise Ships?

Livestreaming and the presence of “influencers” onboard cruise ships has become increasingly controversial. Many cruise guests support banning this type of activity, particularly when streamers block views, film guests without permission, and may deliberately seek to push boundaries for the sake of views.

This is often called “nuisance streaming” with individuals deliberately trying to cause mayhem in order to elicit reactions from those around them, which they then post online.

Harmony of the Seas Balconies
Harmony of the Seas Balconies (Photo Credit: mridulablog)

Guests onboard ships where this is happening are angry about the behavior and how different cruise lines appear to look the other way.

Of course, different social media platforms have different guidelines for what users may post. Some are more lenient about offensive behavior than others.

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“Royal just needs to ban these streamers from streaming on the ship,” one guest suggested on a Reddit discussion, with more than 100 upvotes in agreement.

Unfortunately, it would be very difficult for a cruise line to ban simply recording videos, as many cruise guests love to capture the happy moments of their vacation to share with loved ones on land. Perhaps the idea to ban streaming could be added to the list of security interventions for these types of incidents.

Virgin Voyages’ Ship Cancels Port Calls to Storm-Ravaged Jamaica

Donna Tunney
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Virgin Voyages’ Ship Cancels Port Calls to Storm-Ravaged Jamaica

Key Aspects:

  • Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady has cancelled port calls to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, on her current sailing and her November 17, 2025 cruise.
  • The ship is instead calling at Cozumel, Mexico, on the current cruise and will visit Grand Turk on her next voyage.
  • The Grand Turk call will cause a visit to Grand Cayman to be replaced by the Dominican Republic.

Virgin Voyages has notified booked guests about upcoming itinerary changes due to damage caused by Hurricane Melissa when the monster storm made landfall in Jamaica in late October 2025.

The cruise line’s Brilliant Lady, its newest ship that entered service in September 2025, is impacted. Based at PortMiami, the 2,860-guest ship sails 7- to 12-night voyages to the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, with some that were to call at Ocho Rios, Jamaica, this week and in the coming weeks.

Ocho Rios is no longer a port call option, at least temporarily, and guests learned that Brilliant Lady’s November 8, 2025, departure will be affected. 

The 12-night “Colorful Curaçao to the Charming Caymans” cruise was to call at Ocho Rios on November 17, 2025.

Five port calls are scheduled. In addition to Jamaica, the ship is due to visit Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curacao; Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

“Originally set to visit Ocho Rios, Jamaica, on November 17, we’ll now sail to Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, arriving at 11 a.m. and departing at 6 p.m.,” states Virgin Voyages’ notice to guests.

“To ensure you’re able to visit as many ports as originally planned, we’ve chosen Grand Turk as an exciting alternative that keeps your itinerary full of adventure,” the statement continues.

Read Also: IDEAL Eastern Caribbean Cruise Ports You Should Visit

But there’s a catch. In adjusting the ship’s routing to Grand Turk, the itinerary will now drop Grand Cayman and instead call at Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.

Booked guests indicated they understand the need to temporarily avoid the Jamaica port, but some were frustrated about also missing Grand Cayman.

Jamaica Flag and Cruise Ship
Jamaica Flag and Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)

“Replacing George Town with Puerto Plata is like replacing a Lexus with a Pinto, and calling it a fair exchange. I’m not happy,” one guest posted on Reddit.

“Yeah, totally understanding about Jamaica but genuinely bummed about George Town, there were so many great excursions there,” posted another.

Brilliant Lady, in fact, already missed one scheduled call to Ocho Rios on her November 1, 2025 cruise, a 7-night “Western Caribbean: From Miami to Bimini” sailing. Her November 3, 2025 call to Jamaica was replaced with a visit to Cozumel, Mexico.

Still More Itineraries Are Likely to Be Revised

It is too soon to know exactly when Jamaica’s cruise ports will reopen, but the Jamaican Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has said that the goal is to resume all tourism operations by December 15, 2025.

Brilliant Lady is next scheduled to call at Ocho Rios on her December 7, 2025 cruise. The 11-night “Aruban Sunsets & Calm Cayman Days” cruise will also call at Aruba, Grand Cayman, and Colombia. The cruise line has not yet revealed an itinerary change for that voyage.

A second Virgin Voyages ship, Resilient Lady, includes Ocho Rios on some itineraries from her homeport of Miami. The ship’s November 22, 2025 sailing, the 7-night “Cayman Coves & Jamaican Waterfalls” cruise is slated to visit the destination on November 24, 2025.

No announcement has been made regarding that ship’s itinerary either. Other port calls are Grand Cayman and Bimini Islands, Bahamas.

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The other two ships in the Virgin fleet, Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady, do not feature any Jamaica ports on their voyages from Miami and San Juan, Puerto Rico, respectively.

Virgin Voyages is not the only cruise line temporarily adjusting itineraries away from Jamaica. Royal Caribbean, for instance, has altered the itineraries of several ships that were scheduled to call at Jamaica.

Like other cruise lines, Virgin Voyages has pledged to support Jamaica’s recovery with a donation.

Royal Caribbean Begins Diverting Ships From Jamaica

Melissa Mayntz
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0
Royal Caribbean Begins Diverting Ships From Jamaica

Key Aspects:

  • Royal Caribbean is confirming itinerary changes to remove Jamaica on several different ships in November.
  • This is not unexpected, as Jamaica cannot yet welcome cruise ships until more post-storm repairs are made.
  • Whenever possible, alternatives are being arranged for impacted sailings so guests can still enjoy port visits.

Royal Caribbean has begun notifying guests booked on sailings that include stops in Jamaica that their itineraries have been changed. This is not unexpected, as port facilities in the Caribbean nation remain damaged from Hurricane Melissa and it may be several weeks before cruise calls can resume.

Whenever possible, the cruise line is arranging substitute port visits for the impacted ships. For example, on Symphony of the Seas‘ November 16 departure from Miami, the 7-night sailing is unable to call at Falmouth, Jamaica.

Instead, the ship will be visiting Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic on day five (Thursday, November 20). That is the same day Symphony of the Seas was to have been in Jamaica.

“We’re excited to bring you this refreshed experience and appreciate your understanding, as itinerary planning is an ongoing process that requires cruises to have a certain level of flexibility,” the notification email explains.

“Sometimes, these changes are the result of a weather impact or issue avoidance, speed restrictions, berth or scheduling conflicts, and agreements we have with the ports we visit.”

A similar change has been made to Oasis of the Seas‘ November 23 departure from Fort Lauderdale. That 6-night itinerary was also supposed to visit Falmouth, but will now be going to Cabo Rojo in the Dominican Republic instead. The same explanation, word-for-word, is part of that itinerary notification.

“While these itinerary changes are occasionally necessary, please know they’re made thoughtfully, with your experience and enjoyment in mind,” the email continues. “We know it’s not the original itinerary we planned; however, we’re excited to explore this destination together!”

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship in Falmouth
Photo Credit: David Magorian / Shutterstock

Read Also: The Best Way to Help Cruise Ports After a Hurricane

It’s likely that many upcoming sailings to Jamaica will have similar adjustments. This could include voyages not only aboard Symphony and Oasis, but also on Rhapsody, Independence, Adventure, and Freedom of the Seas in November and early December.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has already declared that Jamaica will be ready for full tourism operations to resume on or before December 15, 2025. This is an ambitious goal, but it may certainly be doable, depending on what types of repairs different facilities need.

In the meantime, Royal Caribbean is not the only cruise line diverting sailings away from Jamaica. Disney Cruise Line has already cancelled Disney Treasure‘s visit to Falmouth on November 5, and undoubtedly, additional sailings will also be impacted.

Not All Cruises Are Completely Skipping Jamaica

While guests will not be able to visit Jamaica for the next few weeks, not all cruise calls are completely cancelled.

Some ships are using planned port calls to the island as an opportunity to deliver relief supplies. Carnival Horizon dropped off pallets of bottled water, baby food, diapers, canned goods, and hygiene supplies to Ocho Rios on Tuesday, November 4, exactly one week after the storm tore across the island.

Similarly, Rhapsody of the Seas delivered more than 120 pallets of supplies to Falmouth, also on Tuesday, November 4.

These relief stops are not actually port visits, as guests are not permitted to debark the ship. Instead, each vessel stops just long enough to safely unload materials that are being donated to help the island recover, then they resume sailing for a day at sea.

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It is possible that similar relief calls will be made over the next few weeks as enough supplies are collected and packaged for efficient delivery.

Different cruise lines have also pledged to make significant financial donations toward Jamaica’s storm recovery, vowing to support the communities they visit and to resume cruise stops as soon as possible.

Royal Caribbean Ship to Host Motorcycle-Theme Cruise in 2026

Donna Tunney
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Royal Caribbean Ship to Host Motorcycle-Theme Cruise in 2026

Key Aspects:

  • Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas will host the 2026 High Seas Rally motorcycle theme cruise.
  • The 7-night voyage will sail from PortMiami in November 2026 and call at three destinations.
  • The cruise raises money for the High Seas Dialysis Fund and the Wounded Warrior Project.

The 2026 High Seas Rally, a themed cruise for motorcycle enthusiasts, will be held aboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class Allure of the Seas, organizer Entertainment Cruise Productions has announced.

The 7-night “Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day” cruise sets sail from PortMiami on November 1, 2026, and features calls at Perfect Day at CocoCay, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Basseterre, St. Kitts.

The High Seas Rally cruise attracts motorcycle riders from across the US. With capacity for 5,500 guests in double occupancy, Allure of the Seas — second in the Oasis class following the pioneering Oasis of the Seas — has an abundance of space.

But the sailing is not a full-ship charter; it is open for sale with a per-person base cruise fare starting at $927.

“For those who live for the ride, High Seas Rally 2026 is more than a cruise. It’s a weeklong celebration of freedom, friendship and full-throttle fun for those who live loud and ride proud,” states Entertainment Cruise Productions.

The production company stages several themed voyages each year, including a Star Trek cruise, the Ultimate 80s Cruise, and the 90s Cruise, among others.

Read Also: Eastern vs. Western Caribbean Cruise: Which Will I Prefer?

While the port calls on the 2026 itinerary and a wide variety of onboard activities offered on Allure of the Seas are sure to keep guests entertained, the High Seas Rally voyages serve another purpose, as fundraisers for important causes.

Various raffles, auctions, and games organized for the motorcycle group raise funds for two charities: the High Seas Dialysis Fund and the Wounded Warrior Project. In fact, since their inception in 2003, the theme cruises have raised close to $3.75 million for these causes.

World’s Only Motorcycle Rally on a Cruise Ship
World’s Only Motorcycle Rally on a Cruise Ship (Photos: High Seas Rally)

Allure of the Seas features five swimming pools and nine hot tubs, 20-plus dining venues, and nearly 20 bars and lounges.

With her seven neighborhoods — Central Park, Boardwalk, Royal Promenade, Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place, and Youth Zone, there is something for everyone.

Live Music, Custom Bike Builder to Join Voyage

Entertainment aboard Allure of the Seas ranges from a comedy club and karaoke to ice skating shows and Aqua Theater productions.

However, the High Seas Rally also provides its own entertainment in the form of live music by Steel Rod, the theme cruise’s own party band, plus the Black Smoke Sinners, Kevin Hamel, and the Retro DJ Travis Bell.

Also onboard will be Xavier Muriel of Providence Cycle Worx, a custom motorcycle builder. Indeed, all High Seas Rally cruisers will be entered to win one of Muriel’s custom-made bikes.

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The organizer’s cruise package covers the base fare, port fees and taxes, crew gratuities, a deluxe beverage package, and a WiFi plan, with inside cabin prices starting at $2,910 per person, for new High Seas Rally cruisers. Those who have cruised on a previous theme voyage pay $2,660 per person.

Ironically, the 2025 High Seas Rally cruise is currently underway. The 7-night voyage is aboard Margaritaville at Sea’s Islander, which departed on November 2, 2025 from Tampa. The Western Caribbean cruise will call at Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico, Roatan, Honduras, and Belize City, Belize.

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