cruise news

Hurtigruten deploys the newly refurbished MS Midnatsol to Norwegian coastal and Svalbard expeditions in 2026, responding to record demand from Australian travellers seeking luxury slow-travel experiences and cultural immersion along Nordic coastlines.

A Carnival cruiser has petitioned the cruise line to install digital clocks in all ship cabins, citing challenges with timekeeping in inside staterooms. In 2026, Carnival shows no plans to implement the amenity despite passenger demand and growing debate.

Royal Caribbean dominates the cruise ships largest rankings in 2026, with Icon of the Seas commanding 248,663 gross tons. Nine of the industry's top 10 mega-ships fly the Royal Caribbean flag.

Carnival Cruise Line enforces strict camouflage dress code rules across Caribbean ports in 2026. A 12-year-old passenger was escorted back to Carnival Horizon in Jamaica after violating local clothing restrictions.

A Virgin Voyages passenger's viral $5,000 tip to housekeeping crew member Jinky has reignited cruise industry conversations about worker compensation and tipping culture in 2026.

A cruise Disney guest aboard Disney Wonder transformed 11 sea days into a Guinness World Record attempt in 2026, snapping 84 toothpicks during a transpacific voyage to Hawaii.

Princess Cruises is removing Istanbul from multiple 2027 Mediterranean sailings without compensation offers. Enchanted Princess and Sun Princess passengers face significant itinerary changes and rebooking challenges.

Barcelona's mayor accelerates cruise passenger tax from €4 to €8 daily in 2026, aiming to eliminate day-visit tourism within months. Major cruise lines face significant cost increases on port calls.

Viking ANZ reports robust cruise demand in 2026 with Australian and New Zealand travelers booking 380 days in advance. Despite Middle East uncertainty, luxury European voyages remain the top choice for discerning cruisers seeking cultural immersion and all-inclusive experiences.

Princess guests unexpected events unfolded when a burst pipe flooded Decks 5 and 6 aboard Enchanted Princess in May 2026. The Santorini port stop featured an unplanned waterfall, but swift crew response prevented itinerary delays.

Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas experienced a temporary power loss in the Gulf of Mexico on May 16, 2026, leaving 2,143 passengers without electricity during a Western Caribbean cruise from Tampa.

Carnival's Mardi Gras rescue ship demonstrated maritime excellence in 2026 when its crew saved nine people adrift near Sebastian Inlet, Florida. The Excel-class vessel responded swiftly to distress signals, coordinating with the U.S. Coast Guard to bring stranded individuals safely onboard.