cruise news

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Cruise port Seward's $137M terminal opens May 22 instead of May 14, 2026, after inspection uncovers marine infrastructure requiring removal. Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines rerouted to Whittier.

A German tourist won €986 in a 2026 lawsuit against unenforced lounger reservation policies. The precedent could reshape how cruise lines enforce chair-hogging rules worldwide and establish new passenger rights standards.

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.

Royal Caribbean's The Key premium upgrade offers priority boarding and exclusive perks in 2026. Learn which benefits justify the daily cost for different cruiser types and embarkation styles.

Royal Caribbean forced an unexpected homeport switch in 2026 when Ovation of the Seas relocated from Seward to Whittier due to port construction delays, affecting thousands of cruise passengers mid-sailing.

Royal Caribbean cruise line cuts Allure of the Seas' inaugural Fort Lauderdale departure by one full day in May 2026, shifting from 8-night Southern Caribbean to 7-night Eastern route, leaving 6,780 passengers scrambling for alternatives.

Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship Norwegian Luna experienced a ceiling panel collapse in its dining venue on May 14, 2026, injuring multiple passengers. The incident raised safety concerns aboard the recently launched vessel.