Key Aspects: In the first half of 2025, 5.6 million cruise passengers called at Mexican ports. The arrivals hike translates to an 8.4% spike. Cozumel alone welcomed 2.4 million cruise guests. Mexico tourism officials are looking back on the first half of 2025 with glowing pride, thanks to cruise arrival numbers showing a big increase
Key Aspects Last-minute bookings played a key role in the sharp rise in revenue. The company’s multiple brands welcomed 2.3 million guests in the second quarter. New-builds Star of the Seas and Celebrity Xcel are in high demand. Royal Caribbean Group, the parent company of five global cruise brands, welcomed 2.3 million passengers across its
Key Aspects: 15 Norwegian Cruise ships will be sailing to Great Stirrup Cay in 2026 to experience the new Great Tides Waterpark. Some of the newest ships in the fleet will be sailing to the private destination, including the soon-to-debut Norwegian Luna. Cruise fans can also try to win their way in by entering the
Key Aspects: The 6-acre Great Tides Waterpark will open on Great Stirrup Cay in the summer of 2026. The new waterpark will feature 19 slides, a lazy river, cliff jumps, children’s play areas, and more. Additional enhancements to the private island will begin opening later this year. Just over a year ago, Norwegian Cruise Line
Key Aspects: A cruise guest died onboard Carnival Dream during a Western Caribbean sailing on July 23, 2025. The FBI is now in the middle of conducting an investigation into the death. Carnival Cruise Line confirmed in a statement that the death isn’t suspicious, and the standard protocols are simply being followed. Carnival Dream returned
Key Aspects: Star of the Seas departed Cadiz, Spain on July 27 and is now making her way across the Atlantic Ocean. Artwork installation, crew training, stunt practices, and more are all happening onboard without guests. The ship’s first four cruises are showcase sailings ahead of her inaugural 7-night voyage on August 31. Every “loyal
Key Aspects: A guest has asked if Carnival’s onboard fitness centers could be open earlier than 7 a.m. Gym hours are typically 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., but do vary slightly across the Carnival Cruise Line fleet. John Heald has explained that instructors must be present whenever the gym is open for guests. The early
Cruisers who grew up watching The Love Boat in the 1970s and 1980s once again have a chance to set sail with the brand that inspired the hit TV show on a special themed voyage in November 2025. But now, they will be thrilled to learn that some new original cast members are joining the fun. Princess
Key Aspects: Viral video shows a guest falling over the railing and outside Icon of the Seas‘ Hideaway Pool on Deck 15. A small walkway and second safety railing undoubtedly saved the guest’s life following their reckless behavior. The incident occurred on the same sailing when a crewmember tragically jumped overboard and was not able
Key Aspects: Norwegian Getaway‘s October 29, 2025 cruise now has two Bahamas ports cancelled and the ship will visit Cozumel instead. Berth availability is cited as the reason for the dramatic itinerary change, but no further details are provided. Cruise lines reserve the right to alter itineraries at any time, and port of call changes
Key Aspects: Amendments to Mexico’s wildlife laws now prohibit some signature interactions with captive dolphins, with Royal Caribbean now informing booked guests. Less intrusive activities with dolphins will still be available and tours are still being offered. These changes are not unlike other laws to protect sloths and monkeys in Honduras or other wildlife, such
Key Aspects: A Carnival guest has complained that profanity and sexual innuendos don’t belong on the family-friendly cruise line even at adults-only comedy. John Heald has noted that jokes often come at the expense of a victim, no matter what the type of gag. Carnival Cruise Line offers plenty of alternative activities suitable for all
