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Progress Spotted at First Royal Caribbean Beach Club

Melissa Mayntz
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Progress Spotted at First Royal Caribbean Beach Club

Key Aspects:

  • New photos of Royal Beach Club Paradise Island show great progress just weeks ahead of its December opening.
  • Some guests are concerned at the work that remains to be done, but construction has not been delayed.
  • The club should be open to its first guests on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

Great progress has been made at Royal Caribbean’s upcoming Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in the Bahamas, as colorful architecture is taking shape and one of the signature pools is now filled with water.

The update comes from Marc Walker, cruise director of Utopia of the Seas. With that Oasis-class ship’s “Ultimate Weekend” short sailings, Walker is in Nassau twice a week and can certainly see every step of progress on the new club.

“Wow this is speeding along. If you zoom in the pool now has water! 6 weeks to go,” Walker said the last time the ship was in port, on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

Utopia of the Seas visits Nassau on every voyage, typically on Saturdays for the 3-night weekend cruises that depart on Fridays and again on Tuesdays during the 4-night getaways that leave Port Canaveral every Monday.

While Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is not a destination like Perfect Day at CocoCay or other private islands, it will be an exclusive club option guests can enjoy whenever a ship visits Nassau.

Construction on the club has been ongoing for more than 18 months after the initial groundbreaking in April 2024. Prior to the start of construction, the narrow spit on the west end of Paradise Island had several abandoned, dilapidated homes that had never recovered from previous hurricane damage.

Now, eager guests can witness day-to-day changes in construction as cabanas are taking shape, bright colors appear on buildings, and beautiful palm trees are planted to ensure the best tropical ambience.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is scheduled to open on December 23, 2025 – what a holiday gift for eager cruisers! The first ships to have the opportunity to offer visits to guests will be Utopia of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas that day.

Nassau Beach Club Progress
Nassau Beach Club Progress (Photo Credit: Marc Walker)

Up next will be Wonder of the Seas, Vision of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas on Christmas Eve, followed by Odyssey of the Seas on Christmas Day.

Read Also: Is 3 Nights Enough Time on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas?

Day passes to the club range from $110 for young cruisers ages 4-12 to as high as $170 for adult guests who want the full drink package included. Royal Caribbean’s shipboard drink packages do not include the Royal Paradise Beach Club.

Prices are subject to change, of course, and may be adjusted on high occupancy days, holiday periods, or peak cruising season.

Will the Club Be Ready in Just Six Weeks?

Some guests looking over the club site from their cruise ships docked in Nassau may be concerned at the apparent progress.

With the projected opening just six weeks away, there is still scaffolding, bare ground, heavy construction equipment, and what appears to be a great deal of work left to accomplish.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, Bahamas
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, Bahamas

Walkways are not yet in place, the landscaping is far from finished, and some buildings appear to have just been started.

“[On] Utopia in Nassau right now,” a guest shared on Reddit the same day of Walker’s eager post. “I see the beach club and it looks like a disaster. Looks like more than a month of work remaining.”

To be fair, there IS more than a month before the club is expected to be open. Other guests did note that leveling out the landscaping and planting can be done quickly.

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“I’m in construction, this is easily done. 4-5 weeks is decent amounts of time,” another commenter added. “They’re building huts. Pools are done. All the electrical, plumbing done by this point. Put a couple of palm trees in and call it a day.”

It is possible that if anything happens to delay construction, the club may have a soft opening with some features unavailable in December. This might impact activities for guests or the overall capacity of the club until it is fully completed.

At this time, however, there appears to be no delay and the countdown to the most exclusive club in Nassau is underway.

Giant Wave Crashes Onto Pier Sweeping Cruise Ship Visitors Away

Lissa Poirot
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Giant Wave Crashes Onto Pier Sweeping Cruise Ship Visitors Away

Key Aspects:

  • A massive wave struck a pier in Tenerife on November 8, 2025, killing a Dutch cruise passenger.
  • Several other visitors suffered injuries and were transferred to the hospital.
  • Authorities are investigating why the pier lacked barriers or warnings during a red coastal alert.

A shore excursion for cruise passengers visiting Tenerife turned tragic on Saturday, November 8, 2025, when a massive wave slammed into a pier in Puerto de la Cruz, sending a group of tourists into the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the victims, a Dutch woman, died after suffering cardiac arrest during the incident that affected at least 10 guests from a cruise ship docked earlier that day, as well as locals.

A spokesperson for the coastal safety platform Canarias, 1,500 km of Coastline, Sebastian Quintana, said, no one was swimming but all simply observing the sea.

Officials confirmed that the victims had arrived that morning on a cruise ship at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and were touring the island when the wave hit. The region was under a red alert for coastal phenomena, with waves reaching up to 15 feet in height.

Wave Hitting and After
Wave Hitting and After

Despite the warnings, the pier area where the group stood reportedly had no visible cordon or safety tape at the time, and the woman, swept into the sea, was rescued but died before reaching the hospital.

Additionally, six French tourists were swept away by a wave on Playa del Roque de Las Bodegas, with emergency teams rescuing the visitors.

One woman was airlifted to the hospital with moderate injuries, and four additional people were taken by ambulance. The tourists had reportedly ignored a warning beacon.

Read Also: 11 Most Dangerous Cruise Ports You Should Be Extra Cautious About

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident on the pier to determine whether proper safety measures were in place and whether local alerts were adequately communicated to visiting tour groups.

In total, three people passed away and 15 were injured in just five hours in what Quintana called, “the most tragic day.”

Tenerife rescue after wave sweeps visitors into the sea
Tenerife rescue after wave sweeps visitors into the sea (Photo Credit: Square profile picture 112 Canary Islands)

No further details have been released about the woman who succumbed to her injuries or which ship passengers were sailing with but both Silversea’s Silver Dawn and TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 3 were docked in Tenerife on November 8.

Silver Dawn had been sailing a 24-night sailing from Southampton, England, to Lisbon, Portugal, and Mein Schiff 3 was on a 21-night roundtrip voyage from Bremerhaven, Germany.

Worth Reading: Cruise Ship Damaged by Rogue Wave Plans Return to Service

P&O Cruises’ Azura is currently homeporting in Tenerife and returned to port on November 7 with passengers and was awaiting to depart on a subsequent 14-night cruise on November 8.

Coastal Safety Under Scrutiny

The tragedy has raised renewed concern about coastal safety and warning enforcement across the Canary Islands, particularly as they remain a hub for international cruise traffic.

In 2024, more than 4 million cruise passengers visited Spain’s Cruise Atlantic Islands, which includes the Canary Islands.

Tenerife regularly experiences strong surf and “mar de fondo,” swells that can generate unexpectedly large waves even in calm weather.

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Officials routinely advise locals and visitors to stay clear of piers, breakwaters, and rocky promenades during high-wave alerts. However, the area where the cruise passengers were standing was reportedly accessible and unguarded, despite the formal warning being in effect.

Incidents like this are not rare in the Canary Islands. Canarias 1,500 km de Costa reported 54 drowning deaths in the Canary Islands between January and October 2025, when strong wave warnings had been released.

Tributes Pour In for Florida Teen Who Died Aboard Carnival Cruise Ship

Emrys Thakkar
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Tributes Pour In for Florida Teen Who Died Aboard Carnival Cruise Ship

Key Aspects:

  • The deceased guest onboard Carnival Horizon over the weekend has been identified as 18-year-old Anna Kepner.
  • Kepner was a senior at Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida with strong ties to the community.
  • The investigation into Kepner’s death is ongoing and no cause of death has yet been confirmed.

While few details have yet been confirmed about the deceased passenger aboard Carnival Horizon‘s recent sailing, family members have come forward to identify their lost loved one as Anna Kepner.

The 18-year-old high school senior was from Titusville, Florida, where she attended Temple Christian School, a private, faith-based school founded in 1994.

According to local news, Talk of Titusville, Kepner was slated to graduate in May and had just completed testing to join the US military before the family cruise vacation.

Kepner was found unresponsive aboard the Vista-class Carnival Horizon during the ship’s November 2, 2025 sailing, a 6-night Western Caribbean itinerary that included a relief supply stop (but not a port visit) in Jamaica.

Following a medical emergency alert to Deck 8 near the end of the sailing, she was confirmed as deceased before the ship returned to Miami.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was alerted to the incident and has begun investigating Kepner’s death. Carnival Cruise Line is cooperating in every way with the investigation.

Anna Kepner
Anna Kepner (Instagram: @anna.kepner16)

Because the investigation is ongoing, authorities have not released any details about Kepner’s cause of death or if there are any leads about the incident. It may be some time before the investigation is complete.

Read Also: Do Cruise Ships Have Morgues?

There has been no delay to Carnival Horizon, and the ship began its next cruise, an 8-night Southern Caribbean “ABC” voyage on Saturday, November 8.

Teen Remembered by School and Community

Kepner is described by her school administrators as a “bright, kind-hearted young woman whose presence brought warmth and energy into the classroom.” She was high-achieving and had plans for her future that have now been abruptly cut short.

She had previously attended Titusville High School, but transferred to Temple Christian School over the summer for her senior year. She was a varsity cheerleader, had earned both her boater’s license and scuba certification, and worked at a local aquarium supply store.

“She was always smiling,” her employer said in a Facebook post. “There won’t be a single day that goes by that we don’t think of her and remember all the good times we shared.”

Gentle, curious, kind, sweet, selfless, compassionate, and caring are other attributes ascribed to Kepner, who was honored on Monday morning at Temple Christian School with tributes on her car in the senior students’ parking area.

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Flowers, toys, and balloons show off Kepner’s bright spirit and the love of her classmates and teachers.

“I want to thank everyone that came out this morning for Anna and her family. The parking lot was full of so many that knew and loved her,” commented Andrea Stoner, the school’s administrator.

Temple Christian School is providing support to any students with counseling services. Carnival Cruise Line is likewise supporting the family as the investigation continues.

Cruise Hive’s thoughts are with Kepner’s family, friends, and classmates at this very difficult time.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Expands With Another New Ship Order

Melissa Mayntz
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Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Expands With Another New Ship Order

Key Aspects:

    Guests interested in an elevated cruise experience will be thrilled that Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the luxury line of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, has ordered a third ship of the already vaunted Prestige Class.

    The order has been secured through Fincantieri, the shipyard that has the first of the Prestige-class vessels under construction and an order for the second already confirmed.

    The new ship, one of the largest ever built for the luxury line at 77,000 gross tons, is scheduled for delivery in 2033, following Seven Seas Prestige in 2026 and the second in the new class in 2030.

    The ultra-luxury ship will be able to welcome 822 guests with the one of the best guest-to-space ratios in the cruise industry, ensuring outstanding experiences onboard and a unique sense of elegance, sophistication, and timelessness.

    “This newbuild order continues our measured, strategic expansion within the luxury space, providing guests with yet another way to experience the unrivaled aboard The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

    “It reflects our confidence in the growing demand for Regent’s best-in-class offering and reaffirms our long-standing partnership with Fincantieri, one rooted in craftsmanship and shared pursuit of perfection.”

    While no details of the new ship have yet been announced, the entire Prestige class will embody game-changing luxury for discerning cruise travelers.

    New public spaces with refreshing decor, updated suite categories, and elegant dining venues are sure to offer outstanding experiences for travelers with the unmatched opulence characteristic of the all-inclusive Regent Seven Seas brand.

    Of special interest is the already legendary Skyview Regent Suite aboard the Prestige-class ships. The two-level suite offers 8,794 square feet of living space and a wraparound balcony with an additional 3,700 square feet of outdoor space. For comparison, the average US home is less than 2,000 square feet.

    Regent Seven Seas Cruise Ship Deck
    Regent Seven Seas Cruise Ship Deck

    The suite will have a private gym and sauna, two bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, an in-suite elevator, skylights, a hand-carved bathtub, and so much more.

    Even with an overwhelming price of $25,000 per night (yes, PER NIGHT), the Skyview Regent Suite is already nearly sold out aboard Seven Seas Prestige for her inaugural season. It is sure to be equally popular on the third ship in the class.

    A History of Successful Collaboration

    This latest order between Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings continues a long-standing partnership of excellent design and outstanding collaboration.

    The Italian shipbuilder has already delivered 10 ships to Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings different brands, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

    “Our long-term strategic expansion with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., established over the past years through multiple successful orders, continues to strengthen our collaboration, especially within the ultra-luxury segment represented by Regent Seven Seas Cruises,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri. 

    “This latest contract confirms the trust NCLH places in Fincantieri’s expertise to deliver innovative, sustainable, and exquisitely crafted ships that meet the evolving aspirations of the luxury cruise market.”

    Read Also: Who Owns Norwegian Cruise Line?

    For Norwegian Cruise Line, the partnership includes all three of the innovative Prima-class ships, Norwegian Prima (2022) Norwegian Viva (2023), and Norwegian Aqua (2025).

    More From Cruise Hive

    As part of the Oceania Cruises family, Fincantieri has built two complete classes, the Oceania class with Marina (2011) and Riviera (2012), as well as the Allura class with Vista (2023) and Allura (2025).

    For Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Fincantieri has already built Seven Seas Explorer (2016), Seven Seas Splendor (2020), and Seven Seas Grandeur (2023).

    Royal Caribbean Ship Swaps Itinerary Due to Winter Weather

    Melissa Mayntz
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    Royal Caribbean Ship Swaps Itinerary Due to Winter Weather

    Key Aspects:

    • An incoming cold front is forcing a port visit change for Utopia of the Seas on the ship’s November 10 departure.
    • While the ship will still visit all planned ports, the order of the ports has now been changed for smoother sailing.
    • Shore tours will be automatically rescheduled for Nassau, but no other ports are impacted.

    While it’s still hurricane season until November 30, it isn’t a tropical system that is forcing an itinerary change for Utopia of the Seas‘ November 10, 2025 departure.

    An incoming cold front that is already causing winter weather and plummeting temperatures in the northern states and will pass through the Sunshine State on Monday is causing the schedule adjustment, as booked guests have been informed.

    “Due to inclement weather we’ve been tracking along our path, we’ve swapped the days we’ll visit Nassau, Bahamas and our Day at Sea,” the notification sent to guests the day before embarkation explained.

    The 4-night Bahamas cruise was originally scheduled to first have a visit to Nassau, followed by Perfect Day at CocoCay, then a day at sea before the ship returns to Port Canaveral on Friday, November 14.

    Now, the Oasis-class ship’s schedule will be as follows:

    • Monday, November 10 – Depart Port Canaveral at 4 p.m.
    • Tuesday, November 11 – Day at Sea (formerly Nassau)
    • Wednesday, November 12 – Perfect Day at CocoCay from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Thursday, November 13 – Nassau from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (formerly at sea)
    • Friday, November 14 – Arrive Port Canaveral at 6:30 a.m.

    The time the ship is to spend in Nassau is slightly different, now from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. when the original schedule called for the visit to be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This actually gives guests an extra hour to enjoy the capital of the Bahamas.

    Any pre-booked shore tours for Nassau reserved through Royal Caribbean are being automatically rescheduled to Thursday instead of Tuesday, and guests do not need to take any action for those changes.

    Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas
    Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas (Photo Credit: Justin Kozemchak)

    There is no other change to the itinerary, including the departure from Port Canaveral, the port visit time at CocoCay, and the return to Port Canaveral.

    Read Also: What to Do Onboard a Cruise Ship in Bad Weather

    Weather-related changes are always made with safety as the first priority. Guests’ comfort is also a concern, and switching the schedule can ensure smoother sailing and a more pleasant cruise experience.

    How Rough Will the Water Be?

    The cold front moving down through the US is scheduled to pass through Florida on Monday afternoon, bringing with it a potentially strong line of thunderstorms.

    In the Port Canaveral area, Wesh2 forecasts the strongest storms will hit from 2-8 p.m. Utopia of the Seas will not depart the port until 4 p.m., but may miss the worst of the afternoon’s weather as she heads south toward the Bahamas.

    Icy cold air will follow as the cold front continues to move south, so cruise guests will be glad to be sailing away from temperatures that may be in the low 30s.

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    On Tuesday morning, when Utopia of the Seas was to have been docking in Nassau, Windy expects winds near the port to be 22-24 knots (25-28 miles per hour), with potentially higher gusts. On Thursday, the winds will have dropped to approximately 12 knots (14 mph).

    This will make it much easier for the 236,500-gross-ton ship to safely maneuver into the busy harbor and dock smoothly.

    On Thursday, Utopia of the Seas will join four other ships in Nassau – Norwegian Joy, Carnival Spirit, Carnival Conquest, and Mardi Gras.

    Virgin Voyages Guarantees Guests Won’t Miss Out Despite Flight Chaos

    Melissa Mayntz
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    Virgin Voyages Guarantees Guests Won’t Miss Out Despite Flight Chaos

    Key Aspects:

    • Virgin Voyages is offering future voyage credits if guests miss sailing due to cancelled flights from the US government shutdown.
    • Guests must submit an airline cancellation confirmation to receive the credit and airfare costs are not included.
    • Flight cancellations and delays at 40 major US airports are impacting thousands of cruise guests.

    With the growing disruptions at major US airports as a result of the prolonged government shutdown and air traffic reductions, cruise guests are understandably nervous about reaching their cruises in the coming days.

    Even if travelers may be flying in a day or two before sailing, it is possible that cancelled flights or rescheduling delays could still cause them to miss their cruise ship.

    Virgin Voyages, however, is making sure booked guests don’t need to stress. In a Facebook post, the cruise line confirmed that they will stand behind impacted guests to make sure they still get their vacation.

    “Flight cancellations = uncertainty. Who needs more stress before their vacation’s even started?” the social media post said. “This isn’t what you signed up for or what you deserve, and it certainly isn’t your fault.”

    “Virgin Voyages has always been for you. If your flight gets canceled and you can’t make your voyage, reach out to Sailor Services with your airline cancellation confirmation – we’ll grant you an immediate future voyage credit.”

    To be clear, the cruise line is not offering refunds to impacted guests, but the future credit will help them rebook their vacation for a more manageable time when flights aren’t quite so crazy.

    “What we can’t guarantee: no cancellations. What we can guarantee: we’ll take care of you,” the cruise line said. “When things get back to normal, we’ll be right here – ready to take you away from all of it. You’re definitely going to need it. The smiles are on us.”

    While Virgin Voyages is not offering reimbursement for the flights themselves (guests would need to work that out with their airline), this is an exceedingly generous offer and it is amazing for the cruise line to step up when guests need the assistance.

    Naturally, guests would be disappointed to miss their cruise, but knowing their vacation investment is safe with Virgin Voyages can make the frustration just a little less.

    Are Cruisers’ Flights Really Being Impacted?

    The possibility of flight cancellations or delays has always been a concern for cruise travelers who aren’t able to drive to homeports, but how much of a concern is it really?

    On Sunday, November 9, the flight data website FlightAware notes that Miami International Airport (MIA) has had 66 cancelled flights and 326 flight delays.

    Miami International Airport is roughly eight miles from Terminal V at PortMiami, where three of Virgin Voyages’ ships are currently homeported: Scarlet Lady, Brilliant Lady, and Resilient Lady.

    Meanwhile, Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL), just 25 miles north of PortMiami, is also experiencing issues. There have been 57 cancelled flights and 256 flight delays on Sunday.

    Virgin Voyages Cruise Ship in Miami
    Virgin Voyages Cruise Ship in Miami (Photo Credit: Just dance)

    In comparison, on Thursday, November 6, the last day before the flight reductions were instituted, MIA had no flight cancellations and 231 delays, while FLL also had no cancellations and only 188 flight delays.

    Bear in mind, delays might range from just a few minutes to several hours, but the change in the number of flight cancellations is shocking.

    Read Also: Virgin Voyages Simplifies Names for 17 Caribbean Itineraries

    Most cruise lines have firm policy that unless airfare is booked through the cruise line, flight disruptions are not their concern. No refunds, future cruise credits, or other compensation will be offered if guests miss their cruise departure due to flight problems.

    Furthermore, many travel insurance policies do not cover government shutdowns, and so no reimbursement for lost cruises, airfare changes, or other fees would be possible.

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    Many cruise travelers are now grappling with the flight uncertainties and attempting to switch to earlier flights to permit more of a buffer in case of changes.

    Another option for some guests is to give up on flights altogether and instead make lengthy drives to their cruise homeports, though this may not be practical or possible for everyone.

    Cruise Lines Tempt Guests With Black Friday Cruise Deals

    Donna Tunney
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    Cruise Lines Tempt Guests With Black Friday Cruise Deals

    Black Friday is still a few weeks away, but cruise lines are already getting in on the traditional consumer spending spree with a wide range of tempting offers, such as cruise fare discounts, onboard credits, special packages, and free amenities.

    In This Article:

      MSC Cruises

      The cruise line is getting in on the action when it comes to Black Friday! Starting from November 11, MSC is having a flash sale with cruises from $159 on select voyages for MSC Divina, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seascape, MSC Seaside, and MSC Seashore. Do keep an eye out, as there may be more incentives on the way from the cruise line!

      Royal Caribbean

      Royal Caribbean launched its “Beat the Clock” Black Friday sale, offering up to $1,000 in savings, free fares for the third and fourth guests in a cabin, and up to half off cruise extras.

      Under the offers, each discount or benefit has a specific booking window. The free fare for third and fourth guests in a stateroom has a booking window through December 8, 2025 for cruises departing between November 8, 2025 and December 31, 2026.

      Royal Caribbean Black Friday Deal
      Royal Caribbean Black Friday Deal

      The booking window for up to $1,000 in savings is November 7 to 10, 2025, for sailings departing on or after that date.

      Guests can receive up to $950 in savings on bookings made from November 11 to 12, 2025 on cruises departing on or after November 11, 2025.

      Find Your Cruise: Start Searching the Best Cruise Prices

      And, cruisers can receive an onboard credit up to $900 for bookings made on November 13, 2025 for voyages departing on or after that date.

      Certain holiday and summer season cruises, and Alaska cruisetours are excluded from these offers.

      Norwegian Cruise Line

      Norwegian Cruise Line launched its biggest sale of the year with a 50% discount on all voyages — and that means all itineraries and all ships. The sale rollout coincided with the line’s announcement that it is bringing back its former Free at Sea package.

      Norwegian Aqua Pool Deck
      Norwegian Aqua Pool Deck

      That value-added package features around $2,000 in savings that come in the form of a beverage and WiFi package, dining offers, and onboard credits that can be applied to shore excursions.

      Celebrity Cruises

      Celebrity Cruises’ Black Friday deals took effect on November 6, 2025 and continue through December 8, 2025. The second guest in a cabin can sail for up to 75% off the regular fare, and for those who book by November 10, 2025, the line offers up to $700 in other savings.

      Celebrity Beyond Cruise Ship
      Celebrity Beyond Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: JSvideos)

      The deals are available on cruises departing through May 10, 2028, and include special voyages such as those with routings perfect for viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. 

      The offers do not apply to Galapagos Island cruises or to Celebrity River Cruises.

      Virgin Voyages

      Cruisers looking for a big bargain can check out Virgin Voyages’ Black Friday sale that offers an 80% discount on the second guest in a stateroom.

      Virgin Voyages Cruise Ship
      Virgin Voyages Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: EQRoy)

      The deal is available on bookings made through December 4, 2025, and features a Bar Tab credit up to $400. Some Virgin cruises are priced at $99 per person, per night, a rate that the cruise line says is the lowest fare it has ever offered.

      Margaritaville at Sea

      Margaritaville at Sea unveiled its Black Friday sale that features a “Cruise + Bundle” package combining a beverage and WiFi plan for $199, which is a savings of 50% off the regular cost of the two plans. 

      The Bundle plan covers the cruise fare, 15 alcoholic drinks per day and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, plus unlimited WiFi for one device.

      Pool Deck of Margaritaville at Sea Islander
      Pool Deck of Margaritaville at Sea Islander (Photo Credit: Feng Cheng)

      Moreover, the Black Friday sale knocks 60% off all cruise fares and includes preview pricing on sailings aboard the line’s newest ship, Beachcomber, which will join the fleet in 2027.

      The sale also features discounts on the 2026 Paradise Pass, which provides unlimited cruises with special perks onboard Paradise, which sails year-round from Palm Beach, Florida.

      Oceania Cruises

      Oceania Riviera Cruise Ship
      Oceania Riviera Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Alexandre Prevot)

      Upmarket Oceania Cruises kicked off its Black Friday sale with an offer of up to 50% off cruise fares on 170-plus voyages with departure dates in 2026 and 2027. The offers became available on November 5, 2025.

      The discount is valid on cruises in Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, and Asia.

      We’ll keep updating this list as more cruise lines start their Black Friday Cruise Deals! If you book through Cruise Hive, you can also take advantage of bonus offers and our exclusive up to $1,500 Visa gift card!

      Carnival Cruise Line Updates Onboard Party Schedules

      Melissa Mayntz
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      Carnival Cruise Line Updates Onboard Party Schedules

      Key Aspects:

      • Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed the updated list of parties and events onboard every ship in the fleet.
      • All ships will feature the signature 80s Rock-N-Glow party and its totally rad, day-glo vibes.
      • Exact events will vary on different ships and sailings based on cruise length and available space.

      Carnival cruisers are generally a lively crowd, enjoying music, dancing, and fun.

      The cruise line leans into that vibe with multiple parties onboard, with every ship in the fleet having at least 1-2 signature events during even the shortest sailings.

      Worth Reading: Top Salsa Stars to Entertain on Carnival Ship’s Spanglish Party Cruise

      Some events change seasonally as ships shift to new homeport regions. It does not make sense, for example, to offer a “Tropical Nights” party for ships sailing in Alaskan waters.

      Some events are also only offered on longer sailings when there is more time to schedule parties.

      Now, the cruise line has updated the event schedule for the winter season (or in Australia, the summer season), and guests will be thrilled to enjoy the most popular event, the 80s Rock-N-Glow party, on every single ship on every single sailing.

      So pack the leg warmers, day-glo, and shoulder pads to strut your 80s vibe, but don’t miss out on these other parties across the Carnival fleet as well:

      • Adventure: White Hot Party, Silent Party, 90s, Decades Party, Abba Party, Island Party
      • Breeze: Silent Party, Motown, Lonestar Party, Country Party
      • Celebration: White Hot Party, Motown, Evolution (exclusive to Carnival Celebration)
      • Conquest: Farewell Party
      • Dream: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Lonestar
      • Elation: Silent Party, Motown, 90s
      • Encounter: White Hot Party, Silent Party, 90s, Decades Party, Island Party
      • Firenze: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Motown
      • Freedom: Silent Party, Motown, Farewell Party
      • Glory: Farewell Party
      • Horizon: White Hot Party, Motown, Silent Party
      • Jubilee: White Hot Party
      • Legend: White Hot Party, Motown
      • Liberty: White Hot Party, Motown, Farewell Party
      • Luminosa: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Abba, Backyard Bash, Island Party, Superhero Party
      • Magic: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Motown, Farewell Party
      • Mardi Gras: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Motown, 90s
      • Miracle: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Motown
      • Panorama: White Hot Party, Motown
      • Paradise: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Motown
      • Pride: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Motown, Farewell Party
      • Radiance: Motown, 90s
      • Spirit: White Hot Party, Silent Party
      • Splendor: Silent Party, Island Night Party, Abba, Superhero Party
      • Sunrise: White Hot Party, Motown, 90s, Farewell Party
      • Sunshine: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Motown, Farewell Party
      • Valor: Motown, Farewell Party
      • Venezia: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Motown, Festa Italiana (exclusive to Carnival Venezia)
      • Vista: White Hot Party, Silent Party, Motown

      While these are the planned events for all Carnival ships, schedules can vary from sailing to sailing depending on different factors.

      It can be difficult to have multiple deck parties if the weather is poor, for example. Similarly, if space may not be available due to group events, some parties might be relocated or cancelled.

      Themed Music Party on Carnival Cruise Ship
      Themed Music Party on Carnival Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz / Cruise Hive)

      The most updated event schedule will be in the Carnival Hub app when guests board their cruise ship. Events are also printed in the FunTimes newsletter, and will often be announced by the cruise director each day.

      Parties May Not Be for Everyone

      While these signature events are popular onboard Carnival ships, no one is ever forced to join in if they aren’t interested.

      Furthermore, there is no established dress code, dance move, or other qualification to participate in different parties.

      More From Cruise Hive

      Want to be part of the White Hot Party but don’t pack along white clothes on a cruise? No worries, just go ahead and have a good time! Don’t fit into your 80s leggings anymore? That’s okay, you can show off your moves all the same.

      All these events are free and open to all ages, so everyone can enjoy the fun onboard, no matter how they prefer to party.

      Death Onboard Carnival Horizon Sparks FBI Investigation in Miami

      Melissa Mayntz
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      Death Onboard Carnival Horizon Sparks FBI Investigation in Miami

      Key Aspects:

      • The FBI is investigating a guest’s death following Carnival Horizon‘s November 2 sailing, a 6-night cruise.
      • No details about the guest’s age, identity, or cause of death have been confirmed by authorities.
      • There has been no delay to Carnival Horizon and the ship has already set sail on her next voyage.

      A cruise vacation is supposed to be a fun and memorable time, but some guests aboard Carnival Horizon will be remembering their sailing for all the wrong reasons.

      When the ship returned to PortMiami on Saturday, November 8, 2025, members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) were on hand to look into the death of a passenger.

      Few details are available at this time, but according to CBS Miami, Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed that it is cooperating with the FBI Miami office to facilitate the investigation.

      “Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI,” a statement from the cruise line read.

      This only confirms that it is a guest who is deceased, but no further details have been released. There is no information about the guest’s age, traveling party, or the cause of death.

      There are various rumors on social media groups about the incident, including the suspicion of foul play or substance abuse, that the guest was found unresponsive in a stateroom, and that it may have been a young woman. These are not officially confirmed, however, and are speculation only.

      Some guests onboard the sailing have recalled a medical emergency call to Deck 8 on the last day of the sailing, but this may have been unrelated. Medical emergencies are not uncommon on cruise ships.

      Some guests on Deck 8, however, did receive notification in their staterooms that they would have priority debarkation in order to stay clear of investigators.

      “Authorities will be joining the ship first thing upon arrival to complete an investigation and will be in the area of your hallway,” the notification said. “It could be noisy and disruptive, so we kindly ask that you be out of your stateroom by 7:00 am.”

      Carnival Horizon in Miami
      Carnival Horizon in Miami (Photo Credit: Just dance)

      Those guests had an option for breakfast, then were escorted first off the ship. It is unclear, however, whether they were personally involved in the investigation or simply in nearby staterooms that needed to be emptied to facilitate the investigation and protect the privacy of those involved.

      An FBI spokesperson also released a brief statement confirming the investigation.

      “I can confirm that the FBI has responded to the scene,” the spokesperson said. “Because this is an ongoing matter, no further information is available at this time.”

      Is the Next Sailing Impacted?

      Carnival Horizon just completed a 6-night Western Caribbean itinerary that initially departed on Sunday, November 2. The ship delivered relief supplies to Ocho Rios, Jamaica and enjoyed port visits to Grand Cayman and Cozumel before returning to Miami.

      It is not known when the guest may have passed, though cruise ships are equipped with morgues if necessary. A Medical Examiner van from Miami-Dade County was on hand when the ship arrived back to port.

      While some guests noticed a delay with the morning’s debarkation, there was no delay to Carnival Horizon‘s next voyage. The Vista-class ship has already departed on the 8-night Southern Caribbean “ABC” itinerary.

      More From Cruise Hive

      Carnival Horizon can welcome 3,960 guests aboard at double occupancy, or as many as 4,977 travelers when fully booked with all berths filled. There are also roughly 1,400 international crew members onboard.

      Cruise Hive’s thoughts are with the impacted guests and crew members aboard Carnival Horizon at this troubling time.

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