Tag Archives: Cruise Sustainability

Cruise News, Travel News & Current Events

Cruise News Roundup: Hawaii Storm Changes, Carnival’s Forgotten Shoes & Flames From an American Airlines Engine

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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 brought us a little bit of everything this week: severe weather changing Hawaiian cruise itineraries, Carnival giving forgotten shoes a second life, and a frightening bird strike that sent an American Airlines flight safely back to the airport after flames were seen coming from an engine.

In this edition of Your Daily Boarding Call, we’re unpacking the headlines without charging you an overweight baggage fee.

Although after today’s Carnival story, you may want to make sure your shoes actually made it into the suitcase.

So grab your coffee, grab your boarding pass, and apparently…count your shoes.

It’s time for the Boarding Call.

This article is adapted from the original Cruise Therapy Podcast transcript for Friday, August 14, 2026.

Tropical Storm Forces Norwegian Cruise Line to Change Two Hawaii Sailings

Mother Nature has rewritten another cruise itinerary.

According to the original episode, a tropical storm approaching Hawaii forced Norwegian Cruise Line to change two sailings involving two ships: Pride of America and Norwegian Spirit.

Pride of America Returns to Honolulu Early

Pride of America, which operates year-round Hawaiian cruises from Honolulu, headed back to Honolulu earlier than originally planned.

Norwegian Spirit Cancels Two Hawaiian Ports

Meanwhile, Norwegian Spirit canceled its final two Hawaii port calls and also headed toward Honolulu early.

The changes came as the storm was strengthening and threatening portions of Hawaii with potentially dangerous conditions, including:

  • Strong winds
  • Heavy rainfall
  • Flooding
  • Dangerous surf
  • Changing port conditions

Missing a port is disappointing, especially when you have been dreaming about that stop for months.

You may have booked an excursion.

You may have researched the perfect beach.

You may already know where your first Mai Tai is supposed to come from.

But this is exactly why cruise itineraries are never guaranteed.

The captain is not sitting on the bridge thinking:

“You know what would be fun today? Disappointing 3,000 people.”

When severe weather starts knocking on the door, the correct response is:

We’re going the other way.

And that is exactly what you want the people responsible for your safety to do.

Mother Nature does not accept reservations.

Severe weather can force cruise lines to adjust ports and schedules quickly in the interest of passenger and crew safety. (AI-Generated Image)

Carnival Has a New Plan for All Those Shoes Guests Leave Behind

Now, from storm trackers to sneaker trackers.

Carnival Cruise Line apparently has one question:

Why do y’all keep leaving your shoes on the ship?

Carnival has partnered with Sneaker Impact, an organization that collects used footwear for reuse and recycling.

Under the program, Sneaker Impact can collect unclaimed shoes left aboard Carnival ships and send them to its facility in Miami instead of simply discarding them.

Guests and crew members may also donate footwear.

And I actually love this idea.

Because somewhere, somebody gets home from their cruise, opens the suitcase, looks around the bedroom, and suddenly yells:

“WHERE ARE MY CROCS?!”

Baby…

Your Crocs may have moved on.

They found purpose.

They’re healing.

Let them go.

Turning Lost-and-Found Into Something Useful

Jokes aside, the partnership provides another potential destination for shoes that might otherwise end up in a landfill.

It also gives guests and crew an opportunity to intentionally donate footwear they no longer need.

So before you leave your cabin on debarkation morning:

  • Check the safe.
  • Check the bathroom.
  • Look under the bed.
  • Check the closet.
  • Check behind the curtains.
  • And please…

Check your feet.

Carnival is partnering with Sneaker Impact to give eligible unclaimed and donated footwear another life. (AI-Generated image)

American Airlines Flight Returns Safely After Bird Strike

Now let’s head from the cruise terminal to the airport.

This next story sounds frightening—and it was certainly dramatic—but the most important part is that everyone landed safely.

According to the episode, American Airlines Flight 1760 departed Myrtle Beach International Airport in South Carolina for Charlotte, North Carolina.

Shortly after takeoff, the Boeing 737-800 reportedly encountered birds.

Video captured by passengers and people on the ground showed bursts of flames coming from the aircraft’s left engine.

The pilots declared an emergency and returned to Myrtle Beach.

The Most Important Detail: The Plane Landed Safely

The aircraft landed safely, and no injuries were reported.

American Airlines then took the plane out of service for inspection, while passengers were moved to another aircraft to continue their journey to Charlotte.

Now imagine looking out the airplane window and seeing flames.

I do not care how calm the flight attendants look.

Internally, I am already holding a full emergency church service in seat 17A.

“Lord, remember when I said I was going to stop ordering shoes online? TODAY IS THE DAY!”

But incidents like this also demonstrate why pilots and cabin crews train repeatedly for emergencies.

The pilots:

  • Recognized the problem
  • Declared an emergency
  • Returned to the airport
  • Landed safely

That is the part of the story worth remembering.

An American Airlines flight returned safely to Myrtle Beach after a reported bird strike shortly after takeoff. (AI-Generated Image)

🌴 Travel Tip of the Day: Severe Weather Can Rewrite Your Cruise

Today’s Hawaii story offers a travel lesson every cruiser should remember:

Do not rely solely on the itinerary you printed months before departure.

When severe weather threatens a cruise destination, plans can change quickly.

Ports may change.

Arrival and departure times may change.

Excursions may change.

Sometimes an entire itinerary may need adjustment.

Before and during your cruise, regularly check:

  • Your cruise line’s mobile app
  • Email notifications
  • Text alerts
  • Official cruise-line announcements
  • Communications from your travel advisor

Independent Excursions Require Extra Attention

If you booked an excursion independently rather than through the cruise line, understand the company’s cancellation and refund policy before you leave home.

Ask what happens if:

  • The cruise ship skips the port
  • Your arrival time changes
  • The ship arrives too late for the excursion
  • Severe weather cancels the activity
  • Your itinerary is completely rerouted

And always pack flexibility.

It does not weigh anything, so TSA cannot charge you for it.

⚓ Key Takeaways

  • Severe weather approaching Hawaii prompted itinerary changes involving Pride of America and Norwegian Spirit.
  • Pride of America returned toward Honolulu earlier than originally planned.
  • Norwegian Spirit canceled its final two Hawaiian port calls.
  • Cruise itineraries can change when weather or port conditions make the original schedule unsafe.
  • Carnival Cruise Line has partnered with Sneaker Impact.
  • Eligible unclaimed shoes left aboard Carnival ships may be collected for reuse or recycling instead of being discarded.
  • Guests and crew can also donate footwear.
  • American Airlines Flight 1760 encountered a reported bird strike after departing Myrtle Beach for Charlotte.
  • Video showed flames coming from an engine.
  • The pilots declared an emergency and safely returned to Myrtle Beach.
  • No injuries were reported.
  • The aircraft was removed from service for inspection.
  • Travelers should monitor official cruise-line communications whenever severe weather threatens an itinerary.
  • Review independent shore-excursion cancellation policies before departure.
  • Flexibility may be one of the most valuable things you pack.

💬 Join the Conversation

Which story grabbed your attention?

Would you be disappointed if your Hawaiian cruise skipped two ports because of a tropical storm—or would you say:

“Captain, take me wherever it’s safe!”

Have you ever returned home from vacation and realized you left something behind?

Shoes?

A charger?

Sunglasses?

Your dignity after karaoke night?

And finally…

If you looked out an airplane window and saw flames coming from the engine, could you stay calm?

Because I already know my answer.

I may look calm on the outside, but internally?

Full emergency church service in seat 17A.

Drop your answers in the comments. I would love to hear your thoughts.

🚢 Ready to Plan Your Next Vacation?

Weather changes, missed ports, flight disruptions, and unexpected surprises are part of why having someone help coordinate your vacation can be valuable.

Atlanta Travel Associates can help with:

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

Ready to start planning?

Complete our Guest Information Form:

Follow the Cruise Therapy Podcast Group on Facebook for more cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, and, of course, a little 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 the Carnival Celebration over at Fahrenheit 555 for dinner.

Order me the prime rib.

Now the important question is…

What are YOU having?

Because if somebody says they’re ordering a salad, crewmates and cruise addicts…

We may need another therapy session. 🚢😂

Cruise News, Travel News & Current Events

Cruise News Roundup: Fake Ship Announcements, a Miami Overnight, Santorini Changes and Bunk-Bed Safety

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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 brought us alleged ship-system hacking, an unusual first night in Miami, a major transportation change in Santorini, a family-safety lawsuit and a new children’s book celebrating the people who keep cruise vacations running.

In this edition of Your Daily Boarding Call, we are unpacking the biggest headlines without charging an overweight baggage fee—or asking whether you left anything at home after packing enough clothing for three climates and a formal dinner.

Grab your coffee or cocktail, your passport and your emotional-support luggage. Let’s get caught up.

This blog post is adapted from the original Cruise Therapy Podcast transcript.

Passengers Accused of Hacking a Cruise Ship’s Announcement System

Six young passengers reportedly faced charges after allegedly gaining unauthorized access to the public-address system aboard MSC Divina and broadcasting fake announcements.

There are plenty of ways to entertain yourself during a cruise:

  • Trivia
  • Karaoke
  • Live music
  • The pool
  • The casino
  • Comedy shows
  • Enough food to keep your stomach in a committed relationship

What you do not need is an unauthorized audition for cruise director.

A ship’s announcement system is used for operational information, safety messages and emergency instructions. Fake announcements could confuse passengers, interrupt legitimate communications and interfere with the crew’s ability to respond during an actual emergency.

The reported charges may include unauthorized access to a computer system, conspiracy and causing an alarm. The allegations would still need to be resolved through the appropriate legal process.

Why the Public-Address System Matters

On a cruise ship, announcements may communicate:

  • Emergency instructions
  • Muster information
  • Weather updates
  • Port changes
  • Tender procedures
  • Operational notices
  • Safety warnings
  • Calls for specific passengers or crew

Unless you are employed by the cruise line, remain in your lane. Let the cruise director handle the entertainment, and keep your hands away from anything labeled Emergency, Bridge, or Crew Only.

A ship’s announcement system is a critical safety and communication tool—not onboard entertainment. (Photo credit: MSC Cruises)

Norwegian Getaway Will Spend Its First Night Docked in Miami

An upcoming four-night sailing aboard Norwegian Getaway will spend its first night docked at PortMiami.

The ship is remaining overnight so the port can test its shore-power system. It is expected to depart the following morning, and the scheduled ports are not expected to change because the first day was already planned as a sea day.

So technically, the ship is not late.

It is simply enjoying a very extended Miami pre-cruise hotel stay—living la vida loca without leaving the pier.

What Is Shore Power?

Shore power allows a cruise ship to connect to the local electrical grid while it is docked instead of running its onboard engines for electricity.

Potential benefits include:

  • Reduced emissions while in port
  • Less engine noise
  • Improved air quality around the terminal
  • Lower fuel use while docked
  • Support for port sustainability goals

While the testing takes place, passengers should still be able to enjoy dinner, entertainment, and their first evening onboard.

Would a Docked First Night Matter?

For some travelers, watching the skyline from the ship may still feel like the vacation has started. Others may be disappointed that the traditional sail-away happens the following morning.

The most important questions are whether the itinerary, onboard services, and scheduled ports remain intact.

Norwegian Getaway will remain overnight in Miami while the port tests its shore-power system. (Photo credit: Miami In Focus Inc.)

Santorini Wall Collapse Changes Cruise-Passenger Access

A collapsed wall has forced the closure of the Karavolades Stairs, the well-known pathway connecting Santorini’s old port with the cliff-top town of Fira.

Organized cruise excursions are being redirected through Athinios, Santorini’s commercial port, until the original route can safely reopen.

Santorini said, “You wanted dramatic scenery? Here is some dramatic logistics.”

The closure may affect:

Tour meeting locations
Tender operations
Transportation plans
Return times
Independent shore excursions
Access to Fira
Walking routes near the old port

Travelers should follow instructions from their cruise line and tour operator rather than relying on an old travel video or outdated blog post.

Allow Extra Time in Santorini

Independent travelers should confirm:

Where their tender will arrive
Where their tour begins
Which return route is operating
Whether buses or transfers have changed
When the final tender departs
How much time they need to reach the ship

Santorini sunsets are beautiful, but they are not beautiful enough to make the captain wait while you search for the correct tender.

The closure of the Karavolades Stairs may change tenders, tours, and transportation for cruise visitors. (Photo credit: To Vima )

Disney Cruise Line Lawsuit Raises Questions About Bunk-Bed Safety

A family has filed a lawsuit against Disney Cruise Line after their child reportedly fell from an upper bunk aboard Disney Wonder and suffered fractures to both wrists.

The allegations have not been resolved in court, so it would be inappropriate to speculate about responsibility.

Our thoughts are with the child and family, and we wish the child a complete recovery.

The story also serves as an important reminder for families to inspect cabin sleeping arrangements before bedtime.

What Families Should Check

Families should inspect upper bunks, ladders, and guardrails before children go to sleep. (AI-Generated Image)

When entering a cruise cabin, inspect:

Ask the cabin attendant to demonstrate how the bed should be opened, secured, and stored.

Do not attempt to adjust a wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted berth yourself unless a crew member has instructed you to do so.

If anything appears loose, unstable, or unsafe, contact the cabin attendant or Guest Services immediately.

A New Children’s Book Celebrates Cruise-Ship Crew Members

Now for something uplifting.

A new children’s book called Dogtoon Adventures: Cruise Crew is available exclusively aboard Oceania Cruises.

The illustrated story uses 21 dog characters to introduce young readers to the professionals who keep a cruise ship operating.

Children can learn about roles such as:

  • Captains
  • Engineers
  • Doctors
  • Chefs
  • Environmental officers
  • Cruise directors
  • Shore-excursion teams
  • Housekeeping staff
  • Technical crew
  • Other onboard professionals

Finally, a book explaining that the cruise director is not personally steering the ship, preparing dinner, repairing the toilet and hosting the Love and Marriage show at the same time.

Helping Children Appreciate the Crew

Passengers see the pools, entertainment, meals and beautiful destinations. Behind every vacation, however, thousands of details are handled by crew members working in different departments.

A book like this can help young cruisers understand:

  • How many people operate a ship
  • Why teamwork matters
  • What different crew departments do
  • How safety and service work together
  • Why crew members deserve courtesy and appreciation

It is a fun way to introduce children to the people behind the vacation—before anyone complains that the cabin is not ready at 10:15 in the morning.

Dogtoon Adventures: Cruise Crew teaches young travelers about the teamwork behind a cruise vacation. (Photo credit: Dogtoon Books)

Travel Tip of the Day: Inspect Your Family’s Cabin Immediately

When traveling with children, inspect every sleeping area as soon as you enter the cabin.

Do not wait until everyone is exhausted and ready for bed.

Family Cabin Safety Checklist

Check:

  • Guardrails are secure.
  • Ladders are stable.
  • Mattresses fit properly.
  • Sofa beds open correctly.
  • Wall-mounted beds are locked into position.
  • Balcony doors and locks work.
  • Sharp furniture corners are visible.
  • Walkways remain clear.
  • Night lights are available.
  • Children can safely reach the bathroom.

Ask your cabin attendant how each bed should be prepared and secured.

Once the sleeping arrangement is correctly set up, take a picture. You can use it to confirm that everything remains in the proper position each evening.

If the arrangement does not work for your family, speak up before bedtime. Guest Services generally has more options at 4 p.m. than at 1 a.m., when everyone is tired, upset, wearing one shoe and crying in pajamas.

Key Takeaways

  • Six passengers reportedly faced charges after allegedly accessing MSC Divina’s announcement system.
  • A ship’s public-address system is used for important operational and emergency communication.
  • Passengers should never interfere with crew-only equipment or safety systems.
  • Norwegian Getaway will spend the first night of one sailing docked at PortMiami.
  • The overnight stay will allow shore-power testing.
  • Shore power can reduce emissions while a ship is docked.
  • A wall collapse closed Santorini’s Karavolades Stairs.
  • Cruise excursions and passenger transportation are being redirected through Athinios.
  • Travelers should confirm current tender, meeting-point, and return information.
  • A lawsuit involving a reported upper-bunk fall aboard Disney Wonder raises family-safety concerns.
  • The lawsuit remains unresolved, and responsibility has not been determined.
  • Families should inspect bunks, guardrails, ladders and balcony locks immediately after boarding.
  • Dogtoon Adventures: Cruise Crew introduces children to the professionals working aboard cruise ships.
  • Parents should report unsafe cabin arrangements before bedtime.

Join the Conversation

What consequences should passengers face if they interfere with a ship’s announcement system?

Would spending your first night docked in Miami bother you if the itinerary remained unchanged?

Have Santorini’s transportation changes affected how you would plan your day ashore?

And families—do you inspect cruise-cabin bunk beds before allowing your children to use them?

Share your thoughts in the comments or join the conversation in the Cruise Therapy Podcast Group on Facebook.

Ready to Plan Your Next Vacation?

Whether you are planning a family cruise, a Mediterranean adventure, a Miami departure, or your first vacation at sea, Atlanta Travel Associates can help you compare ships, cabins, itineraries, and travel-protection options.

Complete the Guest Information Form to begin planning:

Follow the Cruise Therapy Podcast Group for more cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends and practical travel tips.

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 Margaritaville at Sea at the sail-away party. I’ll bring the salt shakers so we know exactly where they are—and then we can waste away with a margarita onboard.

Margarittaville At Sea Fleet
Cruise News, Travel News & Current Events

Cruise News Roundup: Double Points, Solo Balconies and a $53,500 Vacation Injury

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

Cruise and travel news is serving expensive excursion lessons, loyalty rewards, solo-cruiser upgrades, mysterious discoveries at sea, and plenty of airport turbulence.

In this edition of Your Daily Boarding Call, we are unpacking the biggest headlines without charging an overweight baggage fee—or asking you to share an armrest with a stranger.

Grab your coffee or cocktail, your passport, and your emotional-support luggage. Let’s get caught up.

Cruise Excursion Injury Leads to a $53,500 Bill

One traveler’s cruise excursion took a painful and extremely expensive turn after she was seriously injured while using a rope swing during a stop in Honduras.

The injury reportedly resulted in more than $3,500 in shipboard medical expenses and approximately $50,000 in emergency transportation and evacuation costs. The activity was reportedly not sponsored by the cruise line.

That rope swing said, “Come make a vacation memory.”

The hospital said, “We accept Visa, Mastercard and your firstborn.”

The incident is an important reminder that accidents can happen during both independent and cruise-line-sponsored activities. Medical treatment outside the United States may require payment before services are provided, and a traveler’s regular health insurance may offer limited—or no—international coverage.

Why Travel Insurance Matters

Depending on the policy, travel insurance may help cover:

  • Emergency medical treatment
  • Medical evacuation
  • Trip interruption
  • Emergency transportation
  • Certain delays and cancellations
  • Other covered travel emergencies

Nobody enjoys spending extra money on insurance. But nobody wants to return home with a medical bill that costs more than a balcony cabin for the next ten years.

Before purchasing a policy, review the medical and evacuation limits—not only the trip-cancellation benefit.

Emergency medical and evacuation coverage can be especially important when traveling internationally or participating in adventurous excursions. (AI-Generated Image)

Royal Caribbean Brings Back Double Cruise Points

Royal Caribbean has brought back its popular Double Cruise Points promotion for Crown & Anchor Society members.

Eligible new individual and named-group reservations must be made between July 21 and July 31, 2026. Qualifying cruises must depart between September 1, 2026, and April 30, 2027. Transatlantic and Transpacific sailings are excluded, and the promotion may be used on up to two cruises during the eligible sailing period.

The clock is ticking.

This promotion is like the last piece of bacon at the buffet. Look away for too long, and someone else will grab it.

Crown & Anchor members typically earn one point for each cruise night, with additional points available for qualifying suite and solo reservations. The promotion may help loyal guests reach their next membership tier faster.

Before Booking for the Points

Consider:

  • The total cruise fare
  • Taxes and fees
  • Airfare and transportation
  • The itinerary
  • The cabin category
  • The promotion’s exclusions
  • Whether the trip fits your existing vacation plans

Double points are exciting, but the cruise and price should still make sense.

Do not spend $4,000 chasing a complimentary tote bag. That math needs therapy.

Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor members can earn double points on qualifying new reservations made by July 31, 2026. (AI-Generated Image)

Holland America Introduces Solo Balcony Cabins

Holland America Line is showing solo cruisers some balcony love through its major fleet-refurbishment program.

The line plans to add 30 purpose-built Solo Verandah staterooms to Oosterdam. Each cabin will include a private balcony, a dedicated workspace, a glass-walled shower, and standard Holland America amenities.

Finally, a cruise line has realized that solo passengers enjoy fresh air too.

Traditionally, travelers booking a cabin designed for two may face a single supplement, which can push the cost close to the price paid by two passengers.

Purpose-built solo accommodations can provide independent travelers with more suitable pricing and a space designed specifically for one guest.

Dynamic pricing will still mean that rates vary by sailing and demand. The imaginary roommate may be disappearing, but dynamic pricing still knows how to find you.

Still, this is positive news for travelers who want their own space without paying for someone who does not exist.

Holland America solo verandah cabin designed for one cruise passenger. (Photo Credit: Holland America)

Princess Cruise Guests Discover a Mysterious Lifeboat

Guests aboard Emerald Princess encountered an unexpected mystery while sailing off Alaska: an empty lifeboat drifting in the water.

The ship investigated and reported the sighting as required. The boat was later connected to the Morning Midas, a cargo vessel that caught fire and was abandoned in the North Pacific in 2025. Its crew had been safely rescued before the ship later sank.

A ghost lifeboat in Alaska?

This is how every maritime thriller begins—right before someone says, “Let’s get closer and take a look.”

An apparently empty or abandoned boat must be treated seriously because it could indicate that someone needs assistance, even when there are no obvious signs of distress.

For passengers, it was certainly an unusual addition to the glacier-viewing schedule.

You book Alaska expecting whales, waterfalls and icebergs—not an audition for Unsolved Mysteries at Sea.

Emerald Princess investigated an abandoned lifeboat spotted off Alaska during a recent sailing. (Photo Credit: Cruise Hive)

Royal Caribbean and The Wiggles Are Planting Trees

Royal Caribbean has partnered with The Wiggles and Planet Ark on a tree-planting initiative in Australia.

A native tree will be planted in Queensland or New South Wales for each of the first 1,000 families that book one of three eligible Wiggly-themed sailings during the 2026–2027 Australian summer season. The sailings will take place aboard Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas.

The family cruises are expected to include:

  • Wiggly-themed parties
  • Live performances
  • Family discos
  • Meet-and-greets
  • Appearances from the Tree of Wisdom character

The Tree of Wisdom is going on a cruise and helping plant trees.

Meanwhile, some of us can barely keep a rosemary plant alive while away on vacation.

The partnership connects a family cruise experience with a longer-lasting environmental benefit in Australian communities.

Royal Caribbean, The Wiggles and Planet Ark are helping plant native trees in Australia through eligible family cruise bookings. (Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

Severe Weather Creates Airport Chaos in the Northeast

Severe storms caused widespread flight delays and cancellations across New York and other parts of the Northeast.

More than 630 flights were reportedly canceled at New York-area airports on July 21, with LaGuardia, JFK and Newark among the most heavily affected. American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue and United issued travel waivers covering certain airports and travel dates.

Depending on the airline and waiver conditions, affected travelers may be able to change their flights without paying the usual change fee or fare difference.

Please read the conditions carefully.

An airline waiver does not mean, “Choose any flight, travel any day and bring your cousin for free.”

Before Leaving for the Airport

Travelers should:

  • Check the airline’s app
  • Review text and email alerts
  • Confirm the flight status
  • Read the waiver conditions
  • Explore rebooking options
  • Check connecting flights
  • Avoid relying only on airport departure boards

Nothing ruins a travel day faster than arriving three hours early only to discover that your flight left the schedule before you left the house.

Severe weather caused widespread flight disruptions and airline travel waivers across the Northeast. (AI-Generated Image)

Travel Tip of the Day: Read the Entire Insurance Policy

When shopping for travel insurance, do not focus only on the trip-cancellation benefit.

Review:

  • Emergency medical limits
  • Medical evacuation limits
  • Adventure-activity exclusions
  • Pre-existing-condition rules
  • Deductibles and reimbursement procedures
  • Requirements for contacting the insurer
  • Coverage for independent excursions
  • The insurer’s emergency-assistance number

Confirm that the policy covers the activities you plan to participate in.

The cheapest policy may look wonderful—right up until it excludes the exact activity that sends you swinging toward the emergency room.

Save the insurer’s assistance number in your phone and keep a copy of the policy with your travel documents.

Travel insurance is not one-size-fits-all.

Key Takeaways

  • A serious excursion accident reportedly resulted in approximately $53,500 in medical and evacuation expenses.
  • Travelers should review emergency medical and evacuation coverage before leaving the country.
  • Royal Caribbean’s Double Cruise Points offer applies to qualifying reservations made through July 31, 2026.
  • Holland America is introducing purpose-built solo balcony cabins aboard Oosterdam.
  • Emerald Princess investigated a drifting lifeboat connected to a previously abandoned cargo vessel.
  • Royal Caribbean, The Wiggles and Planet Ark are partnering to plant native trees in Australia.
  • Severe storms caused extensive airport delays and cancellations across the Northeast.
  • Airline travel waivers come with specific dates, airports and rebooking conditions.
  • Travel insurance policies should be reviewed for medical limits, exclusions, and emergency procedures.

Join the Conversation

Has a large medical bill ever convinced you to purchase travel insurance?

Would Royal Caribbean’s Double Cruise Points promotion encourage you to book another cruise?

Solo cruisers, would you reserve one of Holland America’s new balcony cabins?

Share your answer in the comments or join the conversation in the Cruise Therapy Podcast Group on Facebook.

Ready for More Cruise Therapy?

Follow the Cruise Therapy Podcast Group for more cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, and practical travel advice.

You can also support the show by:

  • Following or subscribing to the podcast
  • Leaving a rating and review
  • Sharing the episode with your favorite travel buddy
  • Contacting Atlanta Travel Associates to begin planning your next vacation

Again, I’m GFree, your Cruise Therapist.

Until our next therapy session, keep calm, keep cruising, and keep listening.

And I’ll SEA you up at the Rooftop Garden. Save me a lounge chair—and order me an Old Fashioned!

Celebrity Edge Rooftop Garden (Photo Credit: Celebrity Cruise Line)
Cruise News, Travel News & Current Events

Cruise News Roundup: Gulf Storm Watch, Disney’s Historic Captain and Rising Travel Costs

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

Cruise and travel news is making waves this week—from a developing Gulf storm and a history-making Disney captain to Celebration Key’s busy first year and higher food prices at Disneyland.

In this edition of Your Daily Boarding Call, we are unpacking the biggest headlines without charging an overweight baggage fee or making you fight for the last overhead bin.

Grab your coffee or cocktail, your passport and your emotional-support luggage. Let’s get caught up.

Developing Gulf Storm Could Affect Cruise Itineraries

Tropical Depression Two became better organized over the northeastern Gulf and was expected to strengthen into a tropical storm. The National Hurricane Center warned that tropical-storm conditions could affect portions of the Gulf Coast from the Florida Panhandle to southeastern Louisiana.

Travelers sailing from Gulf Coast ports should closely monitor:

  • Cruise-line apps and emails
  • Official weather reports
  • Airline and hotel reservations
  • Port transportation updates
  • Embarkation times

Depending on a storm’s path, cruise ships may change routes, skip ports, delay departures or add more time at sea.

Mother Nature does not care that you already purchased a nonrefundable beach cabana. She looked at your itinerary and said, “Oh, that’s cute.”

What Cruisers Should Do

Do not rely on social-media rumors from someone whose source is their cousin’s neighbor who works near the port. Check the National Hurricane Center and contact your cruise line directly.

Cruise Therapy Takeaway: During hurricane season, flexibility is just as important as sunscreen.

AI-generated image: Cruise ship changing course as a tropical storm develops over the Gulf.

Disney Cruise Line Names Its First Female Captain

Disney Cruise Line has reached an important milestone by naming Captain Maria Gotor its first female ship captain.

Captain Maria now commands the Disney Wish after building a maritime career that began when a ferry ride inspired her to leave the legal profession and pursue life at sea.

Her appointment is especially meaningful in an industry where senior shipboard leadership positions have traditionally been held by men.

The glass ceiling has officially been replaced by a glass-bottom boat.

Captain Maria is steering the ship, commanding the bridge, and probably still hearing someone ask, “But who is really driving?”

Congratulations, Captain Maria!

Disney Cruise Line Captain Maria Gotor standing on a cruise-ship bridge.

Celebration Key Marks a Busy First Year

Carnival Cruise Line’s Celebration Key opened on Grand Bahama on July 19, 2025. The private destination includes freshwater lagoons, a large swim-up bar, beaches, dining venues and entertainment areas.

As Celebration Key approached its first anniversary, reports estimated that it had welcomed approximately 2.5 million guests. A newly completed pier extension now allows the destination to accommodate as many as four ships at once.

That represents millions of guests enjoying the pools, beaches, food and music—and at least one person in every group refusing to leave their lounge chair until someone brings another drink.

It also represents millions of opportunities for somebody to leave their sunglasses back on the ship.

Carnival’s Celebration Key welcomed millions of guests during its first year on Grand Bahama.

Carnival Expands Its Surplus-Meal Donation Program

Carnival Corporation is continuing to expand a program that donates prepared but unserved food from its cruise ships to organizations in port communities.

By the end of 2025, the program had provided more than 320,000 meal portions and expanded to 19 ports, with additional destinations planned.

The program helps reduce food waste while supporting organizations that serve people experiencing food insecurity.

Finally, leftovers are doing something more productive than sitting in the refrigerator until we become emotionally prepared to throw them away.

It is a positive example of cruise tourism making an impact beyond the pier.

Prepared surplus meals being donated from a cruise ship to a local community.

You May Already Qualify for TSA PreCheck Benefits

Before paying to enroll in TSA PreCheck, check whether the benefit is already available through your employer, military status, trusted traveler membership, or credit card.

Active-duty military members and other eligible uniformed-service members can use TSA PreCheck benefits without paying the standard enrollment fee. Certain Department of Defense civilian employees may also participate after completing the required opt-in process.

Travelers enrolled in Global Entry, NEXUS or SENTRI generally receive TSA PreCheck access as part of those programs.

Children 17 and younger may accompany an eligible adult through the TSA PreCheck lane when the required indicator appears on their boarding pass. Travelers 18 and older need their own Known Traveler Number.

Some travel credit cards may also reimburse the application fee.

In other words, check your wallet before paying. You may already own the benefit and not know it—like the gym membership you have been generously funding since January.

Important Reminder

TSA PreCheck may help you move through security faster, but it does not mean you should arrive at the airport 15 minutes before departure.

It speeds up screening. It does not give you the ability to teleport.

Airline passenger using the TSA PreCheck lane at an airport security checkpoint.

Disneyland Raises Food and Beverage Prices

Disneyland Resort has increased prices on hundreds of food and beverage items across Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure and resort dining locations.

Reports indicate that approximately 800 menu items were affected, with the average price rising by about 8%. Items including churros, coffee and Mickey-shaped beignets were among the foods that increased in price.

The churro went up. The coffee went up. The beignets went up.

Apparently, the only thing not going up is the amount of money remaining in your bank account.

Ways to Control Theme-Park Food Costs

Families can reduce spending by:

  • Reviewing menus and prices before arriving
  • Setting a daily food budget
  • Sharing larger portions
  • Bringing permitted snacks
  • Ordering complimentary cups of water
  • Limiting souvenir drinks and specialty beverages

Disneyland may be the Happiest Place on Earth, but your credit-card statement is going to need a quiet place to process its feelings.

AI-Generated Image: Popular Disneyland snacks displayed on a table inside the theme park.

Travel Tip of the Day: Prepare for Hurricane-Season Changes

Never depend only on the original itinerary printed in your cruise documents during hurricane season.

Before leaving for the port:

  • Download the cruise line’s app.
  • Turn on notifications.
  • Check your email for schedule changes.
  • Confirm your flight and hotel arrangements.
  • Verify port parking and transportation.
  • Review your travel-insurance coverage.

Keep essential medications, identification, chargers, and at least one change of clothes in your carry-on—not in checked luggage.

A cruise line can reroute a ship around bad weather. Unfortunately, it cannot reroute your medication from a suitcase sitting in another terminal.

Key Takeaways

  • Tropical systems may cause cruise lines to change routes, ports and departure times.
  • Travelers should follow official cruise-line and National Hurricane Center updates.
  • Captain Maria Gotor has become Disney Cruise Line’s first female captain.
  • Celebration Key welcomed millions of guests during its first year.
  • Carnival’s surplus-meal program is reducing food waste while helping port communities.
  • Some travelers may already qualify for TSA PreCheck or receive reimbursement through a credit card.
  • Disneyland food and beverage prices have increased across hundreds of menu items.
  • Essential medication and travel documents should always remain in your carry-on.
AI-Generated Image

Join the Conversation

Would a developing storm make you nervous about cruising during hurricane season?

What do you think about Disney Cruise Line appointing its first female captain?

Have Disneyland’s rising food prices changed how you budget for a theme-park vacation?

Share your thoughts in the comments or join the conversation in the Cruise Therapy Podcast Group on Facebook.

Ready for More Cruise Therapy?

Follow the Cruise Therapy Podcast Group for more cruise news, travel alerts, destination trends, and practical travel advice.

You can also support the show by subscribing to the podcast, leaving a rating and review, sharing the episode with your favorite travel buddy or contacting Atlanta Travel Associates to begin planning your next vacation.

Again, I’m GFree, your Cruise Therapist.

Until our next therapy session, keep calm, keep cruising, and keep listening.

And I’ll SEA you at the Rise & Tide Bar for drinks!

Rise & Tide Bar on Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas