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Cruise News, Travel News & Current Events

Cruise News Roundup: Odyssey of the Seas Guest Survives Nearly 20 Hours at Sea, NCL Warns of Booking Scams, Carnival Tests Dynamic Pricing & Venezia Gets a New Look

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Cruise News Roundup | Aired October 14, 2026| Episode 71

Prefer listening instead of reading? Enjoy the full episode of The Cruise Therapy Podcast, hosted by G-Free, your Cruise Therapist.

Cruise family, today’s Boarding Call starts with an extraordinary rescue in the Ionian Sea, followed by a cybersecurity warning every cruiser should know, changes to Carnival’s drink and Wi-Fi pricing, and a fresh look for Carnival Venezia.

One story is especially serious: a woman who went overboard from Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas was found alive after spending nearly 20 hours at sea.

Then we’re talking about Norwegian Cruise Line guests receiving scam emails that appear unusually convincing because they contain real booking information.

And Carnival?

Well, your drink package may soon start acting a little more like airfare.

Welcome aboard another edition of Your Daily Boarding Call with GFree, your Cruise Therapist.

Promotional graphic for 'Your Daily Boarding Call' by The Cruise Therapy Podcast Group featuring a cruise ship, palm trees, and ocean.

Odyssey of the Seas Guest Found Alive After Nearly 20 Hours at Sea

Cruise family, this is one of those stories that is hard to believe.

According to the original report discussed in the episode, a 44-year-old woman from El Salvador went overboard from Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas on Friday, October 9, while the ship was sailing through the Ionian Sea southwest of Zakynthos, Greece.

A major search followed, involving:

  • The Greek Coast Guard
  • Aircraft
  • Odyssey of the Seas
  • Nearby commercial ships
A Hellenic Coast Guard boat patrols the sea at sunset, with a lifebuoy floating in the foreground and a cruise ship illuminated in the background.
A woman who went overboard from Odyssey of the Seas was found alive after spending nearly 20 hours in the Ionian Sea. (Ai-generated image)

Then, approximately 20 hours later, the woman was found alive.

A cargo vessel reportedly spotted her inside a life ring, and Coast Guard crews brought her to safety before she was taken to a hospital.

Greek authorities said the woman later told rescuers that she had jumped because she wanted to disembark.

Investigators are still examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.

This is an extraordinary survival story, but also a serious one. Rather than speculate about why it happened, the key facts are that a large-scale search was launched, rescuers found her alive, and authorities continue investigating the circumstances.

Norwegian Cruise Line Guests Report Highly Convincing Scam Emails

Now, Norwegian Cruise Line guests, this story deserves your attention.

Passengers began reporting suspicious emails around October 10, and these messages reportedly looked very convincing.

Why?

Because some contained actual reservation details, including:

  • Passenger names
  • Ship names
  • Sailing dates
  • Booking numbers
A person reading an email on a laptop with a cruise booking confirmation, highlighting a payment verification alert. A smartphone displaying cruise details is beside the laptop, and a notebook with a to-do list is visible.
Norwegian Cruise Line guests have reported scam emails that appear convincing because they include actual reservation information. (Ai-generated image)

The fraudulent emails then asked guests to click a link to:

  • Verify credit card information
  • Complete a security check
  • Finish cruise check-in

According to the episode, Norwegian Cruise Line says the messages are fraudulent and is investigating.

And this is what makes scams like these particularly dangerous.

If an email knows your actual booking number, your first thought may be:

“Well, this must be real.”

Not necessarily.

The safest move is to avoid clicking the link entirely.

Instead:

Go directly to the cruise line’s official website.

Open the official cruise line app yourself.

Or contact your travel advisor.

Carnival Is Moving Toward Dynamic Pricing for Drink Packages and Wi-Fi

Your Carnival CHEERS! package may soon have something in common with airfare.

The price could depend on when and where you’re sailing.

Starting December 1, Carnival Cruise Line plans to change how it prices drink packages and Wi-Fi.

A person using a tablet to compare cruise sailings and prices with a coffee mug featuring a motivational quote in the background. The tablet displays options for sailings to the Western Caribbean, Bahamas, and Eastern Caribbean, with details about drink and Wi-Fi packages. A notebook and sunglasses are on the table, along with a brochure for cruise plans.
Carnival plans to introduce variable pricing for drink packages and Wi-Fi based on factors including itinerary, season, and cruise length. (Ai-generated image)

Instead of using one standard price across sailings, prices may vary based on factors such as:

  • Sailing length
  • Itinerary
  • Season

Carnival had not announced the exact upper or lower limits of the new pricing structure at the time of the episode.

For comparison, the transcript notes that the pre-cruise CHEERS! package currently costs $69.95 per person, per day.

Under dynamic pricing, however, the cost could differ from one sailing to another.

Cruise family, apparently the drink package looked at airline tickets and said:

“Teach me your ways, Sensei.” 😂

Translation?

If you see a price you like, don’t automatically assume it’ll still be there later.

Carnival Venezia Says Arrivederci to Its Yellow Funnel

Carnival Venezia has a new look.

On October 9, the ship’s former Costa Cruises-style yellow funnel was repainted in red, white, and blue.

But before Carnival fans start looking for the classic whale tail…

Side-by-side comparison of two ship funnels: the former yellow funnel featuring a blue 'C' and the new red, white, and blue funnel.
Carnival Venezia has traded its yellow Costa-style funnel colors for a new red, white, and blue Carnival-inspired design. (Photo credit: Carnival Cruise Line)

Not quite.

The funnel is still the same straight shape.

It hasn’t been converted into Carnival’s traditional whale-tail funnel, and according to the episode, Carnival hasn’t announced plans to end the ship’s Fun Italian Style branding.

So the Italian personality is staying.

The funnel just changed outfits.

Or, as GFree put it:

“Still Italian—but make it Carnival.” 🇮🇹🚢😂

A colorful logo for 'Travel Tip of the Day' featuring an illustration of the Earth, iconic travel items like a suitcase, camera, alarm clock, and checklist, surrounded by palm trees, an airplane, and a cruise ship.

GFree’s Travel Tip of the Day: Never Verify Cruise Payments Through an Unexpected Email

Today’s NCL story gives us one of the most important travel tips of the week:

Never use an unexpected email link to verify your cruise payment information.

That applies even if the email knows:

  • Your name
  • Your cruise ship
  • Your sailing date
  • Your booking number

Instead, take control yourself.

Open the official cruise line app.

Type the cruise line’s official website into your browser.

Contact the cruise line directly.

Or contact your travel advisor.

And be especially suspicious of messages that create urgency with statements like:

“Act now or your cruise will be canceled.”

Cruise family, scammers love urgency.

Vacation planning should come with excitement—not panic.

An infographic contrasting unsafe email practices and safe methods for managing cruise bookings. The left side shows a laptop with a phishing email warning, highlighting red flags like unexpected sender and suspicious URL. The right side features a smartphone displaying the official cruise app, promoting direct access for bookings and payments.
Never provide payment information through an unexpected cruise email. Access your reservation directly through the official website, app, or your travel advisor. (Ai-generated image)
Graphic featuring a clipboard with checkmarks and a pencil, labeled 'Key Takeaways' on a blue circular background.

Key Takeaways

🚨 Odyssey of the Seas: A woman was rescued alive after nearly 20 hours in the Ionian Sea following an overboard incident. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances.

📧 Norwegian Cruise Line: Guests have reported fraudulent emails containing real-looking booking information and payment-verification links.

🍹 Carnival CHEERS! & Wi-Fi: Carnival plans to introduce dynamic pricing beginning December 1, meaning prices may differ based on the sailing.

🇮🇹 Carnival Venezia: The ship’s straight funnel has been repainted red, white, and blue while retaining its Italian-inspired identity.

🔐 Travel Tip: Never trust an unexpected email simply because it contains accurate information about your reservation.

Graphic featuring the phrase 'Join the Conversation' with colorful speech bubbles and stylized silhouettes of people; a ship silhouette is visible in the background.

Cruise Family, What Do You Think?

Odyssey of the Seas cruisers: Were you surprised that someone could survive nearly 20 hours at sea?

NCL cruisers: Would an email containing your real booking number make you more likely to believe it?

Carnival cruisers: What do you think about dynamic pricing for drink packages and Wi-Fi?

And Carnival Venezia fans…

Do you prefer the old yellow funnel or the new red, white, and blue look?

Drop your answers in the comments because I would love to hear from you.

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Ready to Plan Your Next Cruise?

Whether you’re planning your next cruise, comparing packages, organizing a group, adding pre- or post-cruise accommodations, or simply trying to keep all those reservation details straight, Atlanta Travel Associates can help.

👉 Start planning your vacation: Guest Information Form

Until Our Next Therapy Session…

Follow the Cruise Therapy Podcast Facebook Group for cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, and your regular dose of Cruise Therapy.

Again, I’m GFree, your Cruise Therapist.

Until our next therapy session:

Keep calm.
Keep cruising.
And keep listening.

And I’ll SEA you aboard Carnival Jubilee. 🚢🍹

Meet me at Dr. Inks, Ph.D.

I’ll be getting my doctorate in Cruise Therapy…

One cocktail at a time.

And if anybody asks about my dissertation?

It’s called:

The Therapeutic Benefits of Ordering Another Round. 😂🍸

Research is ongoing.

What are you having?

Thanks for listening.

BYEEEE! 👋🏾🚢✨

A vibrant graphic promoting a cruise on the Carnival Jubilee, featuring a cartoon character with a microphone, stylish glasses, and playful text announcing 'I'll SEA you aboard Carnival Jubilee'. The background includes a stunning ship at sunset and a cocktail from Dr. Inks, Ph.D., with text about getting a doctorate in 'Cruise Therapy'.

Cruise News, Travel News & Current Events

Cruise News Roundup: Nor’easter Disruptions Continue, Allure Offers a Possible “Free Cruise” Deal & Icon of the Seas Spends the Night in Miami

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Cruise News Roundup | Aired September 25, 2026| Episode 63

Prefer listening instead of reading? Enjoy the full episode of The Cruise Therapy Podcast, hosted by G-Free, your Cruise Therapist.

Cruise Family, today’s Boarding Call has more weather drama, a Royal Caribbean offer that may have some cruisers checking their calendars twice, and an unexpected overnight stay in Miami for Icon of the Seas.

The same powerful nor’easter that disrupted sailings yesterday is still forcing changes from Canada down the East Coast. Some Allure of the Seas guests have received an offer that could essentially mean getting their cruise fare refunded. And passengers boarding Icon of the Seas are spending their first night somewhere they probably did not expect:

Miami.

Grab your boarding pass, grab a drink from the bar, and let’s get into today’s cruise and travel news.

A cruise ship anchored near a tropical coastline, with a vibrant blue sky and palm trees in the background, promoting the Cruise Therapy Podcast Group's daily updates on travel news and industry trends.

🌧️ The Nor’easter Is Still Rearranging Cruise Schedules

This storm has officially taken over the cruise planner.

The nor’easter moving through the Northeast and Atlantic Canada region is forcing cruise lines to adjust departure times, routes, ports of call, and in at least one case, an entire itinerary.

For anyone wondering exactly what a nor’easter is, it’s a strong low-pressure system that develops along the East Coast of North America. These storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, snow in colder months, coastal flooding, and rough seas.

And cruise ships really do not care whether the storm has a cute name.

Map showing coastal hazards for the Atlantic coast, including gusts of 30-40 mph, rough surf, beach erosion, and coastal flooding. Locations highlighted include New York, Ocean City, Virginia Beach, and other coastlines.
Photo Credit: Yahoo

Rough seas are rough seas.

Norwegian Escape Heads Back Early

Norwegian Escape left New York on September 19 for a seven-night Canada and New England cruise.

Norwegian shortened its time in Halifax, Nova Scotia, so the ship could get ahead of the worst weather and return to New York earlier.

Instead of arriving Saturday morning, the ship was expected to reach New York Friday evening, remain docked overnight, and allow guests to debark on schedule Saturday morning.

Carnival Venezia Feels the Storm Again

We talked about Carnival Venezia yesterday.

Carnival shortened the ship’s Bermuda visit and slowed the vessel on the return trip for a more comfortable ride.

That delayed its return to New York and also delayed embarkation for the next cruise, which in turn shortened that sailing’s Bermuda visit too.

This is exactly why the weather affecting the cruise before yours can suddenly become your problem.

Vision of the Seas Goes South

Then there is Vision of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean did not just tweak this itinerary.

They picked it up, turned it around, and sent it south.

Guests had booked a nine-night Canada and New England cruise from Baltimore and were expecting fall foliage.

Instead, the ship stayed overnight in Baltimore and departed at 3 p.m. the next day for:

  • Port Canaveral
  • Nassau
  • Grand Bahama Island

More ships sailing from New York, Boston, Baltimore, New Jersey, and Maine could still see changes depending on how the storm moves.

So if you are cruising from the Northeast this weekend:

Check your email.

Check your cruise-line app.

Check your text messages.

Because Mother Nature has apparently logged into the cruise planner. 😂

A cruise ship navigating rough seas in the Atlantic Ocean on the left side, transitioning to a sunny beach scene in the Bahamas on the right, with palm trees and a resort in the background.
The continuing nor’easter is forcing several cruise lines to adjust routes, port calls, and arrival times along the East Coast. (AI Generated Image)

💰 Would You Move Your Cruise for a Refund?

Now let’s talk about an email I would very much like to receive.

Some guests booked aboard Allure of the Seas for September 27 received an offer from Royal Caribbean asking:

“How flexible are you?”

Allure is scheduled to sail from Fort Lauderdale on a six-night Western Caribbean itinerary visiting:

  • Perfect Day at CocoCay
  • Falmouth, Jamaica
  • Nassau

But select guests have been offered the option to move to the October 11 sailing instead.

Same ship.

Same itinerary.

Same ports.

Just two weeks later.

And here’s where it gets interesting.

Option 1: Move the Cruise

Guests who volunteer to move can receive a full refund of the cruise fare.

They would still pay taxes, fees, and add-ons on the new sailing, but Royal Caribbean would refund the actual cruise fare.

The cruise line would also reimburse certain non-refundable travel expenses such as flights and hotels.

Option 2: Cancel Completely

Guests could also cancel and receive a full refund of everything paid, including non-refundable deposits.

On top of that, they would receive a future cruise credit worth 100% of the cruise fare.

So yes.

You could potentially cancel, get your money back, and still have cruise credit to use later.

Royal Caribbean had not publicly stated exactly why the offers were being made. The episode notes that cruise lines have used similar incentives when sailings appear overbooked and volunteers are needed to change plans.

Now before everybody starts yelling:

“TAKE THE DEAL!”

Not everybody can.

People have:

  • work schedules
  • birthdays
  • anniversaries
  • babysitters
  • pet sitters
  • group travel plans
  • flights
  • hotels

Moving a vacation by two weeks may simply not be possible.

But if you are retired, working remotely, or your calendar says:

“I ain’t got nowhere to be…”

That offer could look very tempting. 😂

A person holding a smartphone displaying an email from Royal Caribbean about a cruise rescheduling offer, with a beach scene in the background featuring a lounge chair, sunglasses, and a tropical drink.
Some Allure of the Seas guests were offered incentives to move their vacation to a later sailing. (AI Generated Image)

🛳️ Icon of the Seas Is Spending Its First Night in Miami

Guests boarding Icon of the Seas are getting a slightly unusual start to their vacation.

They are still boarding Saturday.

But the ship will remain overnight at PortMiami for scheduled maintenance.

Icon is now expected to depart at 4 p.m. Sunday, September 27.

Because of the delayed departure, the scheduled Costa Maya, Mexico, visit has been canceled.

Royal Caribbean says the rest of the seven-night itinerary is currently unaffected, and guests are receiving refundable onboard credit as compensation.

Picture it:

Everybody is standing at sailaway Saturday afternoon.

Drinks in hand.

Music playing.

Everybody yelling:

“BYE, MIAMI!”

And Miami answers:

“See you tomorrow!” 😂

The good news?

Guests are already aboard Icon of the Seas.

And if there is one ship where you could probably spend an extra day without going anywhere, it is Icon.

You still have:

  • pools
  • restaurants
  • bars
  • entertainment
  • AquaDome
  • Surfside
  • Central Park
  • Thrill Island

You could spend a week onboard and still end the trip asking:

“Wait…where was that?”

Of course, if Costa Maya was an important part of your vacation, losing that port is disappointing.

Royal Caribbean had not publicly detailed the exact maintenance work involved.

The key point is that the cruise is still sailing, the remaining itinerary is intact, and Icon is simply getting a little extra quality time with Miami first.

A large cruise ship named 'Icon of the Seas' docked at PortMiami during sunset, with a vibrant skyline in the background and people gathered at the terminal.
Icon of the Seas will spend its first night docked in Miami before departing Sunday after scheduled maintenance. (AI-Generated Image)
Colorful graphic featuring a globe, suitcase, camera, alarm clock, checklist, and travel icons, with the text 'Travel Tip of the Day'.

⚓ Travel Tip of the Day: Your Cruise Itinerary Is Not an Appointment Calendar

Today’s nor’easter and Icon stories give us one important reminder:

Never treat a cruise itinerary like a guaranteed appointment calendar.

Ports can change because of:

  • weather
  • maintenance
  • medical emergencies
  • port congestion
  • mechanical issues
  • operational needs

Before your cruise, avoid making tightly connected, expensive, non-refundable plans around a single port.

Keep cruise-line notifications turned on.

Download the cruise line’s app.

Watch your email.

Watch your text messages.

And if one particular port is the only reason you are taking the vacation, think carefully before making expensive non-refundable arrangements around it.

Because the cruise contract says:

“Itinerary subject to change.”

And Mother Nature?

She always reads the fine print. 😂

A person holding a tablet displaying a cruise itinerary with various destinations, including Grand Cayman and Cozumel, alongside a calendar for April 2025 and a coffee mug on a table.
Cruise itineraries can change for many reasons, so travelers should avoid building non-refundable plans around a single port. (AI-Generated Image)
A colorful graphic featuring a clipboard with checkmarks and the text 'Key Takeaways' in a banner, accompanied by a pencil.

⚓ Key Takeaways

Nor’easter: Norwegian Escape, Carnival Venezia, Vision of the Seas, and potentially other Northeast sailings have seen route, timing, or port changes.

Allure of the Seas: Select passengers were offered incentives to voluntarily move or cancel their sailing.

Icon of the Seas: Guests will spend the first night in Miami while the ship undergoes scheduled maintenance.

Costa Maya: Icon’s scheduled stop has been canceled, while the rest of the itinerary remains intact.

Travel Tip: Treat every cruise itinerary as flexible and avoid tightly connected non-refundable plans.

Graphic promoting participation in discussions, featuring colorful speech bubbles and silhouettes of people with a ship in the background.

💬 Join the Conversation

Cruise Family, I need answers today.

🍁 If you booked Canada and New England and suddenly ended up sailing to Florida and the Bahamas, would you be:

A. Devastated
B. Disappointed but still happy to cruise
C. In the cabin throwing sweaters everywhere yelling, “SOMEBODY FIND MY SWIMSUIT!” 😂

💰 If you received the Allure of the Seas offer, would you move your trip two weeks later in exchange for getting your cruise fare refunded?

🛳️ And Icon cruisers: would you be upset about spending your first night in Miami if it allowed the ship to complete needed maintenance before heading to sea?

Drop your answer in the comments.

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🧳 Ready to Plan Your Next Cruise?

Cruise vacations are exciting, but flexibility matters.

Atlanta Travel Associates can help coordinate your:

  • cruise
  • airfare
  • pre- and post-cruise hotels
  • transfers
  • shore excursions
  • travel protection
  • vacation planning

📝 Start planning here: Client Request Form

🎙️ Keep Up With Cruise Therapy

Follow the Cruise Therapy Podcast for cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, cruise tips, and your regular dose of Cruise Therapy.

Again, I’m GFree, your Cruise Therapist.

Until our next therapy session:

Keep calm.
Keep cruising.
And keep listening.

And I’ll SEA you aboard Icon of the Seas.

Meet me at the Hideaway Bar.

You’ll find me by the infinity pool.

Grab a drink…

…and let’s mind our own cruise business. 🍹🌊😂

A vibrant promotional image featuring the cruise ship Icon of the Seas, surrounded by tropical elements. In the foreground, a stylish character holds a cocktail while wearing sunglasses and a medical uniform. The text invites viewers aboard the ship and to the Hideaway Bar, showcasing a lively bar scene and groups of people enjoying drinks by a pool.
Cruise News, Travel News & Current Events

Cruise News Roundup: Nor’easter Reroutes Cruises, Royal Caribbean Card-Counting Dispute, Half Moon Cay Gets a Beach Club & River Cruising Heats Up

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Cruise News Roundup | Aired September 24, 2026| Episode 62

Prefer listening instead of reading? Enjoy the full episode of The Cruise Therapy Podcast, hosted by G-Free, your Cruise Therapist.

Cruise Family, today’s Boarding Call has weather drama, a casino dispute, a new VIP-style private-island experience, and even more competition coming to Europe’s rivers.

A powerful nor’easter is forcing itinerary changes for both Carnival and Royal Caribbean. One Royal Caribbean passenger is challenging a cruise ban tied to alleged card counting. Holland America is adding a new premium beach club at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay. And both Celebrity Cruises and Explora Journeys are making moves into river cruising.

Grab your boarding pass, grab something from the bar, and let’s get into today’s cruise and travel news.

A large cruise ship docked in a tropical location, with a clear blue sky and mountains in the background. The image features the title 'Your Daily Boarding Call' and mentions cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, and industry updates.

🌧️ Nor’easter Says: “Your Itinerary? That’s Cute.”

Mother Nature is rearranging cruise vacations along the East Coast.

Carnival Venezia departed New York for a four-night Bermuda sailing, but rough conditions developing along the route home forced Carnival to make changes.

The ship arrived in Bermuda earlier than planned and also departed earlier on September 22, giving the captain more flexibility to take a safer and more comfortable route back to New York.

So if you packed that perfect overnight Bermuda outfit?

Back into the suitcase it goes.

But Carnival wasn’t the only cruise line adjusting plans.

Royal Caribbean took an even bigger detour.

Guests boarding Vision of the Seas in Baltimore expected a nine-night Canada and New England itinerary featuring Boston, Portland, Saint John, Halifax, fall foliage, sweaters, and maybe a little lobster.

Instead?

“How do you feel about Florida?” 😂

The sailing was rerouted south to:

  • Port Canaveral
  • Nassau
  • Grand Bahama Island

The ship also remained overnight in Baltimore and was scheduled to depart the following day after conditions improved. Royal Caribbean will refund guests for shore excursions booked for the original Canada and New England ports.

Imagine packing fall boots and a raincoat for New England…

…and suddenly somebody yells:

“Beach day!”

Who is helping me turn this cardigan into a cover-up?

The serious point, though, is that cruise ships can move when dangerous weather develops. That flexibility can mean shorter port calls, different destinations, or a complete itinerary change.

In this case:

Bermuda got shorter, and Canada became the Bahamas.

A cheerful group of six adults walking together along a wooden boardwalk with a scenic waterfront and a large cruise ship in the background, surrounded by colorful autumn foliage.
A powerful nor’easter forced major itinerary changes, including a Vision of the Seas sailing that was rerouted from Canada and New England to Florida and the Bahamas. (AI Generated Image)

🎰 Royal Caribbean Passenger Challenges Casino-Related Cruise Ban

Now to a cruise casino story with a lot of moving parts.

An Australian passenger named Mark Timothy Grant is challenging Royal Caribbean after the cruise line canceled five complimentary cruises he says he earned through Casino Royale.

One of those cruises was scheduled aboard Quantum of the Seas from Brisbane in 2025.

According to the episode, Royal Caribbean contacted Grant three days before departure and told him the cruise was canceled.

Then all five of his complimentary sailings were canceled.

Grant still went to the terminal but was denied boarding.

Later, Royal Caribbean told a tribunal that its global security team had placed Grant on a no-sail list after reviewing his casino activity.

The cruise line alleged that he violated casino rules involving advantage play, including alleged card counting.

Grant disputes Royal Caribbean’s action and is seeking more than $22,000 Australian dollars in compensation for the canceled cruises.

His original case was dismissed over jurisdiction.

However, that decision was later overturned on appeal, allowing the underlying dispute to return to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

And this distinction matters:

The appeals ruling did not determine whether Grant counted cards.

It also did not decide whether Royal Caribbean had the right to ban him or whether compensation is owed.

Those questions remain unresolved.

So for now?

To be continued.

Or as GFree put it:

Casino Royale said know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em…

…and Royal Caribbean apparently added:

“Know when you’re not getting back onboard.” 😂

A luxurious cruise ship interior with a casino table featuring poker chips and cards, alongside a canceled boarding pass for the Ocean Horizon cruise.
A Royal Caribbean passenger is challenging the cancellation of five complimentary cruises after the cruise line alleged casino-rule violations involving advantage play. (AI Generated Image)

🏖️ Holland America Is Adding a New Beach Club at Half Moon Cay

Now let’s get off the ship and find a lounge chair.

Holland America has announced a new premium beach club at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay as part of upgrades ahead of the private island’s 30th anniversary in 2027.

Bookings for the new beach club are expected to open in early October.

A day pass is expected to include:

  • priority tendering
  • dedicated waiter service
  • all-inclusive alcoholic drinks
  • all-inclusive non-alcoholic drinks
  • beach accessories
  • specialty food and beverage options

And outside the premium beach club, Holland America is also making broader island improvements.

Those upgrades include:

  • a complimentary island food pavilion
  • a new barbecue menu
  • refreshed bars and restaurants
  • upgraded cabanas
  • more daybeds
  • more canopy loungers
  • additional beach chairs
  • four pickleball courts

Yes.

Pickleball.

Because apparently somebody looked at a beautiful private island in the Bahamas and said:

“You know what this beach needs? A paddle sport.” 😂

Linda and Leroy can go play.

I’ll be over here making friends with the waiter and protecting my lounge chair.

A beachside scene with a server bringing drinks to a couple lounging on a comfortable sofa. The couple enjoys a sunny day with palm trees and a cruise ship in the background.
Elegant private-island beach club with turquoise water, white cabanas, shaded loungers, attentive waiter service, tropical cocktails, and a subtle Holland America-style ship offshore. (AI Generated Image)

🚢 River Cruising Is Entering Its Main-Character Era

Ocean cruise lines are coming for the rivers.

Explora Journeys has announced plans to enter the European river cruise market.

According to the episode, Explora signed a letter of intent with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard.

The company has not yet revealed:

  • what the ships will look like
  • how many ships are planned
  • exact launch dates
  • which European rivers will come first

But sales are expected to open in 2027.

That’s a big move for a cruise brand that only launched its first ocean ship in 2023.

And Explora isn’t alone.

Celebrity Cruises is already further along.

Its first river ship, Celebrity Compass, touched water for the first time on September 12 in the Netherlands.

The ship completed its first float-out in Rotterdam before traveling roughly 40 miles to another shipyard for the next phase of construction.

Celebrity Compass is scheduled to debut in August 2027 and sail the Rhine and Danube rivers.

Eventually, it will be joined by Celebrity Seeker.

So now we have Celebrity coming.

Explora coming.

And you already know everybody else is watching.

Why?

Because river cruising offers something different:

  • smaller ships
  • city-center docking
  • longer destination time
  • intimate itineraries
  • European scenery
  • and, most importantly…

European wine. 🍷😂

Somebody in a cruise-company boardroom is already saying:

“Build me a river ship.”

River cruising may officially be entering its main-character era.

A scenic riverside view at sunset featuring a cruise ship sailing on a river, surrounded by picturesque houses and vineyards, with a table set for dining, showcasing glasses of white wine and a platter of cheese and fruits.
Celebrity Cruises and Explora Journeys are both expanding into European river cruising, adding new competition to the river cruise market. (AI Generated Image)
Colorful logo featuring a globe, airplane, ship, suitcase, camera, alarm clock, and checklist, titled 'Travel Tip of the Day'.

🌦️ Travel Tip of the Day: Watch the Cruise Before Yours

Today’s weather stories give us an important travel-planning reminder.

If severe weather is developing around your cruise, don’t only monitor your sailing.

Watch the cruise immediately before yours too.

Why?

Because even if the weather is beautiful on your embarkation day, your ship may still arrive late after having to:

  • slow down
  • change course
  • wait for rough seas to improve
  • divert around a storm

That delay can affect:

  • embarkation
  • your first port
  • excursions
  • onboard scheduling
  • or even the entire itinerary.

Keep your cruise line’s app notifications turned on.

Check:

✅ email
✅ text messages
✅ app notifications
✅ itinerary updates

And please do not ignore a cruise-line message on embarkation morning.

Because Mother Nature does not care that you booked the 11:30 a.m. arrival appointment.

She did not read your boarding pass. 😂

A person using a smartphone to check a cruise app showing a weather alert, while packing for a trip with a suitcase, passport, and cruise documents visible. A large cruise ship is docked outside the window.
When severe weather threatens a sailing, monitor both your cruise and the voyage immediately before yours for possible delays or itinerary changes. (AI Generated Image)
A colorful graphic featuring a clipboard with checkmarks, a pencil, and the text 'Key Takeaways' at the bottom.

⚓ Key Takeaways

Today’s Boarding Call covered weather, casinos, beach clubs, and river cruising.

Nor’easter: Carnival Venezia shortened its Bermuda visit, while Vision of the Seas was rerouted from Canada and New England to Florida and the Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean Casino Dispute: A passenger is challenging a no-sail decision and the cancellation of five complimentary cruises connected to alleged advantage play.

Half Moon Cay: Holland America is adding a new premium beach club and broader island upgrades.

River Cruising: Explora Journeys is planning to enter European river cruising, while Celebrity Compass has already completed its first float-out.

Travel Tip: When weather threatens your sailing, watch the ship’s current itinerary—not just your own departure date.

Graphic with the text 'Join the Conversation' over silhouettes of three people in different colors, with speech bubbles, and a ship in the background.

💬 Join the Conversation

Cruise Family, I want to hear from you.

🍂 If you booked a Canada and New England fall cruise and suddenly got rerouted to Florida and the Bahamas, would you be:

A. Disappointed
B. Just happy to be cruising
C. Looking for somebody to find you some shorts 😂

🎰 Casino players: what do you think about the Royal Caribbean dispute?

🚢 And river cruisers: would you consider trying a river cruise if one of your favorite ocean cruise brands offered it?

Drop your thoughts in the comments.

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🧳 Ready to Plan Your Next Cruise?

Whether you’re looking at the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, an ocean cruise, or even a future river cruise, Atlanta Travel Associates can help coordinate the details.

That includes:

  • cruises
  • hotels
  • transfers
  • flights
  • pre- and post-cruise stays
  • excursions
  • vacation planning

📝 Start planning here: Trip Inquiry Form

🎙️ Keep Up With Cruise Therapy

Follow the Cruise Therapy Podcast for cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, cruise tips, and your regular dose of Cruise Therapy.

Again, I’m GFree, your Cruise Therapist.

Until our next therapy session:

Keep calm.
Keep cruising.
And keep listening.

And I’ll SEA you aboard Legend of the Seas at Dueling Pianos. 🎹🍹🚢

The drinks are flowing.

The crowd is singing.

The piano battle is on.

And please pour me a tequila shot because I’m about to sing like nobody knows me.

If somebody hands me the microphone after that tequila kicks in?

It’s between the piano player, me…and the Lord. 😂

What are you having?

A lively dueling pianos performance on the ship 'Legend of the Seas', featuring an animated singer with curly hair in sunglasses and a microphone, with a pianist in the background, vibrant lighting, and an audience enjoying the show.
Cruise News, Travel News & Current Events

Cruise News Roundup: Carnival Tropicale Opens for Booking, Venezia Says “Don’t Come Early,” Sun Princess Tragedy & Disney Adds a Port

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Cruise News Roundup | Aired September 10, 2026| Episode 57

Prefer listening instead of reading? Enjoy the full episode of The Cruise Therapy Podcast, hosted by G-Free, your Cruise Therapist.

Cruise Family, today’s Boarding Call has a Texas-sized ship reveal, an embarkation reminder for overexcited cruisers, a heartbreaking update from Sun Princess, and a little Disney holiday magic to close things out.

Carnival has officially opened reservations for Carnival Tropicale, its future Galveston-based Excel-class ship. Guests boarding Carnival Venezia in New York are being reminded not to arrive hours before their assigned boarding time. A Minnesota family is mourning the loss of a loved one following a serious accident aboard Sun Princess. And Disney Cruise Line has reportedly added another port to a Very Merrytime sailing from Galveston.

Here’s what cruisers need to know.

Graphic promoting 'Your Daily Boarding Call' by The Cruise Therapy Podcast Group, featuring a cruise ship in a harbor with text highlighting cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, and industry updates.

🤠 Carnival Tropicale Says “Howdy, Y’all”

Carnival Cruise Line has officially opened reservations for Carnival Tropicale, while construction on the future ship reaches another major milestone at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.

And because Tropicale will eventually call Galveston, Texas home, Carnival brought a little Texas flavor all the way to Germany.

Think:

  • Cowboy hats
  • Western attire
  • Texas decorations
  • Barbecue
  • Plenty of Lone Star energy

Somewhere in Germany, somebody was probably looking around that shipyard thinking:

“Why does everybody suddenly look like they’re heading to a rodeo?” 😂

Carnival Tropicale will become the fifth and final ship in Carnival’s Excel class and is scheduled to begin sailing from Galveston in April 2028.

The ship is leaning heavily into its Texas connection, including a Star of Texas displayed on the bow.

Planned itineraries include four-, five-, six-, and eight-day cruises visiting destinations such as:

  • Celebration Key
  • RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay
  • Isla Tropicale in Roatán
  • Puerta Maya in Cozumel
  • Progreso
  • Nassau

And Carnival is packing the ship with family-friendly attractions.

One of the biggest additions is Sunsation Point, featuring Carnival WaterWorks Ultra with six waterslides, plus a Route 66-inspired miniature golf course, an adventure trail, retro arcade-style entertainment, and new dining concepts.

Six waterslides?

At my age, I just need to know one thing:

Is there an elevator back to the top?

I will absolutely slide down.

But I am not climbing 84 flights of stairs just to prove I still know how to have fun. 😂

A large cruise ship with a Texas flag design is docked at a shipyard during sunset, surrounded by construction scaffolding. Workers are present, and banners display messages celebrating Texas and German engineering.
Carnival Tropicale is leaning into its future Galveston homeport with Texas-inspired branding, attractions, and celebrations. (AI-Generated Image)

⏰ Carnival Venezia Guests: Please Stop Showing Up Early

Carnival had a message for guests boarding Carnival Venezia in Manhattan:

Please arrive during your assigned terminal appointment.

Translation?

Stop showing up three hours early. 😂

Carnival Venezia was scheduled to depart New York for a four-night Bermuda cruise, and because embarkation was expected to be busy, Carnival reminded guests to follow the arrival appointment selected during online check-in.

Not two hours before.

Not:

“Well, my friend’s appointment is at 10:30, so I came with her.”

Your appointment, friends.

Not hers. 😂

The arrival-time system is designed to spread thousands of passengers throughout the day instead of having everyone descend on the terminal at once.

That matters even more in New York, where the cruise terminal is much smaller than major embarkation hubs such as Miami or Port Canaveral.

Arriving too early can mean:

  • more congestion
  • longer waits
  • crowded terminal areas
  • being asked to wait until your actual appointment anyway

So if your appointment says 12:30 p.m., that does not mean standing outside the terminal at 9:15 a.m. staring through the gates.

Go eat breakfast.

Have a second cup of coffee.

Enjoy late checkout if you have it.

The ship will still be there.

Crowd of people in line at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal in New York City, with a large Carnival cruise ship docked in the background.
Carnival is reminding guests that arriving hours before an assigned terminal appointment can create unnecessary congestion and longer waits. (AI-Generated Image)

💔 Family Mourns Passenger After Serious Sun Princess Accident

Now we move to a much more serious story.

A Minnesota family is mourning the loss of Stephen Junker, 58, a pastor and father of five who died after suffering a severe injury aboard Sun Princess.

According to the family account discussed in the episode, Junker was traveling in Italy with relatives to celebrate his son’s wedding.

On August 16, he reportedly fell into a swimming pool aboard the ship and was found face down and unresponsive.

He had suffered a serious spinal cord injury.

The Sun Princess medical team responded, and he was transferred ashore to Naples, Italy, for emergency care, where he underwent surgery.

His family later arranged his return to the United States.

On August 23, he was transferred to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, for additional treatment.

Sadly, doctors determined that his injuries could not be successfully treated, and he died on September 4, surrounded by family and friends.

Princess Cruises expressed condolences to his loved ones.

Junker served as pastor of Chippewa Lutheran Church in Brandon, Minnesota, for nearly a decade and was remembered by those close to him as someone devoted to his family, faith, and helping others.

This family boarded a cruise expecting to celebrate a wedding.

They came home facing an unimaginable loss.

Today, we simply extend our condolences to his wife, children, family, church family, friends, and everyone whose life he touched.

A cruise ship named Discovery Princess sailing on the ocean during sunset, with a vibrant orange and yellow sky in the background.
A Minnesota family is mourning the loss of Stephen Junker following a serious injury suffered during a family cruise in Europe. (AI-Generated Image)

🎄 Disney Magic Adds More Holiday Magic

Let’s end with something lighter.

Usually, when cruise passengers get an itinerary-change email, somebody is asking:

“Why did they take away my port?”

But guests booked on the December 22 Very Merrytime sailing aboard Disney Magic from Galveston reportedly received the opposite kind of surprise.

Disney Cruise Line added another port to the five-night holiday itinerary.

Originally, the sailing featured Progreso, Mexico, along with multiple sea days.

Now, booked guests are getting extra destination time.

That is the kind of email I want to receive.

Not:

“Dear Guest, due to operational considerations…”

Because when an email starts like that, your itinerary is about to get rearranged like living-room furniture. 😂

I want:

“Dear Guest, SURPRISE! We bought you another vacation.”

The Very Merrytime sailing already includes:

  • Christmas decorations
  • holiday entertainment
  • seasonal character appearances
  • festive activities
  • holiday-themed experiences

And now?

Another place to explore.

Disney basically said:

Merry Christmas, baby. We got you a port. 🎁🚢

And that gift doesn’t need batteries.

A festive cruise ship adorned with holiday decorations, docked in Galveston, Texas, during sunset. The image features a colorful water tower, a ferris wheel, and a decorative gift box with tropical elements, conveying a sense of adventure and celebration.
Guests booked on a Disney Magic Very Merrytime sailing received an unusual itinerary change: an additional port of call. (AI-Generated Image)
Logo featuring travel-themed elements including a globe, airplane, cruise ship, suitcase, camera, alarm clock, and a checklist, with the text 'Travel Tip of the Day'.

🚢 Travel Tip of the Day: Your Arrival Appointment Is There for a Reason

Today’s Carnival Venezia story gives us the perfect embarkation reminder.

Arriving extremely early does not necessarily mean you’ll board earlier.

Before embarkation morning:

  • check your boarding pass
  • verify your cruise terminal
  • confirm your arrival appointment
  • allow extra travel time for traffic
  • know where you can wait if you arrive in the area early

If you get to the port area ahead of schedule, consider:

  • staying at your hotel a little longer
  • grabbing breakfast
  • having coffee nearby
  • relaxing somewhere outside the terminal

There is an important difference between:

Getting to the port area early

and

Walking into the terminal early

We want you early enough that you don’t miss the ship.

We do not need you early enough to help them tie the ship to the dock. 😂

A graphic showing a clipboard with check marks and a pencil, labeled 'Key Takeaways' on a blue circular background.

⚓ Key Takeaways

Today’s Cruise News Roundup covered four very different stories.

Carnival Tropicale: Reservations are open, construction is progressing, and the future Galveston ship is embracing its Texas identity.

Carnival Venezia: Guests are being reminded to respect assigned terminal arrival times instead of crowding the terminal early.

Sun Princess: A family is mourning the loss of a passenger following a devastating onboard accident.

Disney Magic: Guests on a holiday sailing received the rare itinerary-change email everyone wants—the one that adds another destination.

Graphic promoting engagement with the text 'Join the Conversation,' featuring colorful silhouettes of people and speech bubbles, with a boat in the background.

💬 Join the Conversation

Cruise Family, I want to hear from you.

🤠 Are you excited about Carnival Tropicale and all the new features coming to Galveston?

⏰ When you receive a cruise terminal arrival appointment, do you actually follow it?

Or are you standing outside two hours early saying:

“Maybe they’ll let us in.” 😂

🎄 And Disney cruisers—how happy would you be to get an itinerary change that actually adds another port?

Drop your answers in the comments.

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🧳 Ready to Plan Your Next Cruise?

Whether you’re interested in Carnival, Disney, Royal Caribbean, Princess, or another cruise line, Atlanta Travel Associates can help you compare ships, itineraries, hotels, transfers, excursions, and pre- or post-cruise stays.

📝 Start planning your next vacation with our online Guest Form:

🎙️ Keep Up With Cruise Therapy

Follow the Cruise Therapy Podcast for more cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, travel tips, and—of course—Cruise Therapy.

Again, I’m GFree, your Cruise Therapist.

Until our next therapy session:

Keep calm.
Keep cruising.
And keep listening.

And I’ll SEA you aboard Disney Treasure at the Haunted Mansion Parlor. 👻🍸

I’m ordering the Chilling Challenge—the drink with a secret message that only appears under a black light.

I’m just hoping that message says:

“Have one more drink.”

And Cruise Family…

Who am I to argue with the spirits? 😂

What are you ordering?

A vibrant collage promoting the Haunted Mansion Parlor aboard the Disney Treasure cruise, featuring an illustration of a character with glasses holding a purple drink, a ship at sunset, and elements from the Haunted Mansion theme.
Cruise News, Travel News & Current Events

Cruise News Roundup: Disney Wish Heads to New York, Norwegian Aqua Goes Short, Puerto Rico Faces Historic Drought & More

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Prefer listening instead of reading? Enjoy the full episode of The Cruise Therapy Podcast, hosted by G-Free, your Cruise Therapist.

Cruise and travel news is bringing us a little bit of everything today—from exciting new Disney Cruise Line itineraries and quick Norwegian getaways to a major Carnival retirement announcement, a heartbreaking incident aboard Norwegian Getaway, and an important Puerto Rico travel update.

So grab your boarding pass, secure your valuables, and pick up your favorite drink from the bar.

It’s time for another Your Daily Boarding Call.

This article is adapted from the original Cruise Therapy Podcast transcript for Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

Disney Wish Is Heading to New York City

Mickey finally handed over the map.

After teasing mysterious geographic coordinates on social media, Disney Cruise Line officially announced its Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 itineraries on August 25, 2026.

And the big headline?

Disney Wish is heading to New York City.

Starting in late September 2027, Disney Wish is scheduled to operate seven special cruises from New York, ranging from four to seven nights.

Some itineraries will visit Bermuda, while others will head north toward Canada and New England.

Just imagine Disney Wish sailing past the Statue of Liberty.

(Photo Credit: Disney Cruise Line)

Cue:

“Start spreading the news…”

Don’t worry. I’m not singing.

Maybe at karaoke night.

Disney Also Announced More Deployment News

Disney also announced:

  • A new Panama Canal crossing aboard Disney Magic
  • Additional cruises from San Juan
  • New deployment options throughout the fleet
  • Early booking beginning August 31 for select Castaway Club members
  • General reservations opening September 8

So if you’ve been waiting for Disney Cruise Line to return to New York…

Your Wish has come true. Literally.

Disney Wish is scheduled to sail a limited series of cruises from New York beginning in late September 2027. (AI-Generated Image)

Norwegian Aqua Is Going Short With Three- and Four-Night Cruises

For the cruisers who say:

“I want to cruise, but I don’t have seven days.”

Norwegian Cruise Line heard you.

Beginning April 28, 2028, Norwegian Aqua is scheduled to begin sailing three- and four-night Bahamas cruises from PortMiami.

We are talking:

Long-weekend Cruise Therapy.

Three-night cruises are expected to depart on Fridays, while four-night sailings are expected to leave on Mondays.

Great Stirrup Cay (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)

Each itinerary is scheduled to include:

  • Nassau
  • Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian Aqua is expected to offer more than 50 short cruises between late April and late October 2028.

That makes it easier to squeeze in a cruise between work schedules, school calendars, or one of those weeks when you suddenly realize:

I need to get on a ship before somebody gets on my nerves.

And now, when somebody asks:

“Didn’t you just get back from a cruise?”

You can respond:

“That was last weekend. Three nights. That wasn’t a vacation. That was maritime self-care.”

Norwegian Aqua will offer three- and four-night Bahamas cruises from Miami beginning in 2028. (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)

Carnival Cruise Director Robby Howell Announces Retirement

Now for a bittersweet Carnival update.

Popular Carnival Cruise Director Robby Howell announced that he is retiring from ship life after approximately 10 years at sea.

Carnival Cruise Director Robby Howell is preparing to retire after about 10 years at sea. (Photo Credit: Robby Howell)

Howell said the decision was entirely his and that he is looking forward to starting a new chapter on land with his wife.

But he isn’t gone just yet.

His final cruise aboard Carnival Venezia is scheduled to leave Port Canaveral on November 1, with his Carnival career concluding when that voyage ends on November 8.

He is calling the remaining stretch:

“Robby’s Retirement Run.”

And I love that.

After spending a decade getting thousands of people to dance, laugh, sing, and participate in activities, Robby finally gets to wake up without having to say:

“GOOD MORNING, CARNIVAL FAMILY!”

Congratulations, Robby.

Somewhere, his alarm clock is already celebrating.

Passenger Dies After Fall Aboard Norwegian Getaway

We need to shift gears for the next story.

A male passenger aboard Norwegian Getaway died after falling from a balcony onto a lower deck late Sunday night, August 23.

The ship was on the final night of a three-night Bahamas cruise from Miami after visiting Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay.

Norwegian Cruise Line confirmed that the guest fell from a balcony to a lower deck.

Crew members immediately responded and attempted lifesaving measures, but sadly, the passenger did not survive.

His identity had not been publicly released at the time of the incident.

Most importantly, authorities had not determined the cause of the fall.

The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office was investigating the incident as an unclassified death investigation.

There is no need for speculation here.

Behind every headline is a family receiving news that changes their lives forever.

Our thoughts are with the passenger’s family, friends, fellow travelers, and the crew members who responded.

Sometimes Cruise Therapy takes on a very different meaning.

Authorities are investigating the death of a passenger aboard Norwegian Getaway after a fall from a balcony. (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)

Puerto Rico Faces Historic Drought and Water Rationing

Now let’s head ashore to Puerto Rico.

If you have an upcoming Puerto Rico vacation, cruise pre-stay, post-cruise hotel stay, or San Juan getaway, this is one update worth paying attention to.

Puerto Rico is facing a severe, historic drought.

According to the episode, San Juan had its driest July in 120 years, while nearly a quarter of Puerto Rico faced severe drought conditions.

Because of the water shortage, some areas began a 48-hours-on, 48-hours-off water rationing schedule on August 7.

That means water service alternates every two days in affected municipalities.

Travelers to Puerto Rico are being encouraged to conserve water and check conditions with their hotel before arrival. (Photo Credit: Reuters)

Should Travelers Cancel?

Not necessarily.

Hotels remain open.

Visitors are still welcome.

Many hotels have contingency plans in place.

But travelers are being asked to conserve water.

That includes:

  • Taking shorter showers
  • Turning off faucets while brushing your teeth
  • Reusing towels when possible
  • Avoiding unnecessary water use
  • Contacting your hotel before arrival

And yes…

This may finally be the vacation where that little bathroom sign saying:

“Help us save the planet—reuse your towel”

isn’t just the hotel trying to avoid doing laundry.

This time?

They really mean it.

Contact Your Hotel Before Traveling

Before leaving home, ask:

  • Is water service normal?
  • Are pools operating?
  • Are hotel restaurants open?
  • Are excursions running?
  • Are any services limited?
  • Is the property affected by rationing?

Five minutes on the phone could save you a lot of surprises after arrival.

Because the only hotel surprise I want is:

“Ms. Freeman, you’ve been upgraded to the Presidential Suite.”

That surprise?

I accept.

🌴 Travel Tip of the Day: Call the Hotel, Not Just the Airline

When a destination is experiencing a drought, storm, wildfire, flooding, or other local disruption, do not rely only on your airline or cruise line for information.

Your flight may be operating normally.

Your cruise may still be sailing.

But conditions at your hotel or destination may be very different.

Before departure, contact the property and ask:

  • Is water service normal?
  • Are restaurants operating?
  • Are pools open?
  • Are excursions running?
  • Are any areas closed?
  • Should I prepare differently?

Also review:

  • Your travel insurance
  • Hotel cancellation policies
  • Transportation arrangements
  • Excursion policies
  • Local emergency notices

A quick phone call before departure can prevent a vacation from starting with:

“Wait…nobody told me THAT.”

⚓ Key Takeaways

  • Disney Cruise Line announced Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 itineraries.
  • Disney Wish is scheduled to operate seven cruises from New York beginning in late September 2027.
  • New York itineraries will include destinations such as Bermuda, Canada, and New England.
  • Disney Magic will offer a new Panama Canal crossing.
  • Disney is adding more cruises from San Juan.
  • General reservations are scheduled to open September 8, 2026.
  • Norwegian Aqua will begin three- and four-night Bahamas cruises from Miami in April 2028.
  • Each short Norwegian Aqua itinerary is expected to include Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay.
  • More than 50 short sailings are planned through late October 2028.
  • Carnival Cruise Director Robby Howell announced his retirement after about 10 years at sea.
  • His final Carnival Venezia sailing is scheduled to end November 8.
  • A passenger aboard Norwegian Getaway died after falling from a balcony onto a lower deck.
  • Authorities had not determined the cause of the fall at the time of the episode.
  • Puerto Rico is experiencing severe drought conditions.
  • Some municipalities are using a 48-hours-on, 48-hours-off water rationing schedule.
  • Travelers are still welcome but are being asked to conserve water.
  • Travelers should contact hotels directly when local conditions may affect a destination.

💬 Join the Conversation

Which story caught your attention?

Are you excited to see Disney Wish sailing from New York City?

Would you book a three-night Norwegian Aqua cruise just for a quick weekend getaway?

And if you had a Puerto Rico vacation planned during water rationing, would you still go and adjust your habits—or postpone the trip?

Drop your thoughts in the comments.

I want to hear from you.

🚢 Ready to Plan Your Next Vacation?

Whether you’re dreaming of Disney Wish from New York, a quick Norwegian Aqua getaway, Puerto Rico, or another cruise vacation entirely, Atlanta Travel Associates can help coordinate the details.

We can assist with:

  • Cruise vacations
  • Pre- and post-cruise hotels
  • Flights
  • Transportation
  • Travel protection
  • Shore excursions
  • Resort stays
  • Group travel

Ready to get started?

Complete our Guest Information Form:

Follow the Cruise Therapy Podcast Group on Facebook for more cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, and, of course, Cruise Therapy.

Again, I’m GFree, your Cruise Therapist.

Until our next therapy session:

Keep calm, keep cruising, and keep listening.

And I’ll SEA you aboard Explora III at Fil Rouge, the French-inspired restaurant.

Order me the Tuna Tataki.

Now tell me…

What are you having?

Because if we’re aboard Explora III, I’m not looking at the prices.

We’ve already committed. 🚢🥂