is carnival vista cruise cancelled

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Carnival Cruise Line Cancels a Month of Sailings in 2024

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• December 13, 2022

Today Carnival Cruise Line announced the cancellation of a month of voyages on Carnival Vista in early 2024 so the vessel can go into dry dock.

In an email to guests booked on voyages from January 7, 2024 through and including February 10, 2024, the line said “In our continuous efforts to enhance our product, Carnival Vista has now been scheduled for dry dock. As a result, we’re sorry to inform you that your reservation has been cancelled. We have a variety of alternatives and are confident you will find another Carnival cruise that is filled with an equal amount of FUN. Our team is ready to discuss options and rebook you on another Carnival cruise right away.”

Reasons for the unexpected dry dock were not detailed, but it’s safe to say it’s likely due to the propulsion issues that have plagued Carnival Vista essentially since the ship debuted in 2016. As recently as this past September, Carnival announced that six voyages this fall and winter had to be modified , telling guests ““We have had to implement a work schedule to address an unexpected issue on Carnival Vista and will be conducting maintenance on the ship during your cruise, which means the ship will be unable to sustain the maximum cruising speed necessary to operate your itinerary.”

Back in 2019, Vista was out of service for nearly three weeks to have both of its Azipods (thruster propulsion units) repaired. This past May, a scheduled port call in Grand Cayman was skipped during a western Caribbean itinerary due to propulsion issues, as well.

MORE: Newest Norwegian Cruise Ship Arrives in Winter Homeport

As for these early 2024 sailings that have now been canceled, guests have two options. They can rebook on a comparable sailing in a similar cabin and have the cruise rate that they originally paid protected (except for on select sailings such as those over a major holiday). They’ll also receive $50 in onboard credit per person, up to $100 per cabin.

Those who don’t want to reschedule can request a full refund.

Carnival Vista currently operates seven-night western Caribbean cruises from Galveston, Texas. In fall 2023, she’s scheduled to begin sailing six and eight-night Caribbean voyages from Port Canaveral.

READ NEXT: Carnival Venezia to Feature New Bars, Italian-Themed Guy’s Burgers & Activities

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Carnival Vista to Drydock in 2024

• December 17, 2022

The Carnival Vista is set to drydock in early 2024. Previously scheduled to offer itineraries out of Port Canaveral, the Carnival Cruise Line ship will now be out of service between Jan. 7 and Feb. 18, 2024.

“In our continuous efforts to enhance our product, Carnival Vista has now been scheduled for drydock. As a result, we’re sorry to inform you that your reservation has been cancelled,” Carnival said in a letter sent to booked guests.

Passengers are being offered “a variety of alternatives,” it added, including the choice of a full refund of the cruise fare and any pre-purchased items.

Guests may also opt to reschedule their departure with a protected cruise fare, choosing a comparable sailing and similar accommodations.

The rescheduled bookings will receive a $50 per person onboard credit, with a maximum of $100 credit per stateroom.

“We sincerely apologize for this change and thank you for your understanding. We look forward to having you sail with us,” Carnival said.

In September, the company also changed several itineraries onboard the Carnival Vista citing “unscheduled maintenance onboard.”

“We have had to implement a work schedule to address an unexpected issue on Carnival Vista and will be conducting maintenance on the ship during your cruise, which means the ship will unable to sustain the maximum cruising speed required to operate your itinerary,” Carnival said at the time.

As a result, the company altered the routes of a total of six Western Caribbean cruises departing from Galveston between late 2022 and early 2023.

Lead of the Vista Class, the Carnival Vista originally entered service in 2016 and has capacity for 4,000 guests.

After the pandemic operational pause, the 135,000-ton vessel became the first Carnival ships to resume service in July 2021 .

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• CruiseMapper

Carnival Vista accidents and incidents

Cabins 1965

Length (LOA) 322 m / 1056 ft

  Tracker   Ship Wiki

CruiseMapper's Carnival Vista cruise ship accidents, incidents and law news reports relate to a 4716-passenger vessel owned by Carnival Cruise Line . Our Carnival Vista accidents page contains reports made by using official data from renown online news media sources, US Coast Guard and Wikipedia.

Here are also reported latest updates on cruise law news related to ashore and shipboard crimes still investigated by the police. Among those could be arrests, filed lawsuits against the shipowner / cruise line company, charges and fines, grievances, settled / withdrawn legal actions, lost cases, virus outbreaks , etc.

• propulsion/power loss - 2016, 2019 (3 canceled cruises, drydocking for repairs), 2023
• deaths - 2019 (2), 2022
• medevacs - 2016, 2018, 2023 (2)
• Coronavirus - 2021 (27+51)
• 2016 - Messina incident (passing close to shore)

departure July 13

departure July 20

The cruise ship was taken out of service (July 5 through 23) for repairs. All canceled July 2019 bookings were provided with full refunds, refunds of pre-purchased items (prior departure), USD 200 pp to flight change fees/travel expenses, plus 100% future Carnival cruise credit (to rebook before Dec 20, 2020). Following a special 4-day voyage (departing July 23), Carnival Vista resumed its 7-day Caribbean cruise schedule from Galveston on July 27.

In July 2019, Carnival contracted the Dutch dredging and heavy-lift company Royal Boskalis Westminster NV (headquartered in Papendrecht, Holland) to lift Carnival Vista out of the water and onto the vessel BOKA Vanguard (IMO 9618783) and transport it to Grand Bahama Shipyard ( Freeport Bahamas ) for repairs.

This floating drydock operation (the world's first for a passenger ship) was required due to technical issues with the liner’s azipods (propulsion units positioned under waterline). For the operation, Boskalis deployed from Europe the heavy-load carrier BOKA Vanguard - currently the world’s largest heavy-lifting vessel (semi-submersible platform).

The carrier arrived in The Bahamas on July 5 to prepare for the liner’s arrival (July 12). The loading and lifting operation was planned for July 12-14. Carnival Vista's repairs took place whilst the liner was on BOKA Vanguard. Note: Grand Bahama Shipyard's drydock facility sustained damages when a crane collapsed onto Oasis OTS  (April 1, 2019).

01 June 2019 Crew / Passenger Deaths

(CruiseMapper emailed incident report by Barbara Dodson) I was on Vista from 06-01 to 06-08-19. We heard them call for a medical response team to go to a cabin on deck 9 and later heard someone on deck 9 had died of a heart attack. A passenger reported seeing the body being transported to the morgue and the cabin being sealed off. If the medical emergency and death were related, this happened on 06-01. I could've sworn we were still in port when the medical emergency was called, though. It may have been right after we left, though.

The incident occurred at the beginning of 7-day Western Caribbean cruise (itinerary June 1-8) roundtrip from homeport Galveston Texas to Montego Bay (Jamaica), George Town (Grand Cayman) and Cozumel (Mexico).

(2nd feedback from Barbara Dodson) I did confirm the call for a medical response team on June 1 was for this incident. We had actually just left Galveston when it happened. The body remained onboard the entire week (presumably in the morgue) until we got back to Galveston (June 8). Witnesses reported seeing a hearse pulled up to the ship before we disembarked. This incident did not cause any itinerary changes but was a sadly tragic event for this poor person's family.

08 July 2018 Coast Guard Medevacs

On July 8, 2018, an 89-year-old male passenger (suffering a stroke) was medevaced from the ship approx 140 ml (220 km) west of Great Inagua Island (Bahamas), en-route from Miami to Jamaica. The USCG dispatched  MH-60 helicopter crew from Clearwater, Florida. The man and a crew nurse were airlifted and flown to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre (Turks and Caicos).

The incident occurred during 6-day Western Caribbean cruise (itinerary July 8-14) roundtrip from homeport Miami to Ocho Rios (Jamaica), George Town (Grand Cayman) and Cozumel (Mexico).

02 December 2017 Other Incidents

On January 16, 2018, CDC issued a report regarding the Carnival Vista ship, inspected on December 2, 2017.  The sanitation inspection resulted in score 79.  Note: any CDC score of 85 or lower is failing. Sanitation inspectors caught the crew hiding perishable food and galley equipment in crew quarters, officially reported as "an organized effort to physically move several containers and trolleys of food equipment, utensils, spices, potentially hazardous food items, raw produce, and decorations to a crew cabin hallway and a crew cabin in order to avoid VSP inspection".

Among the items found by the VSP staff were Lexan boxes with butter, buttermilk, whipping cream, raw seafood and meat (salmon, lamb, beef). In addition, the VSP staff found incomplete and/or inaccurate gastroenteritis (infectious diarrhea) illness logs and incorrect time control labels.

14 November 2016 Propulsion / Power Loss

On November 14, 2016, while operating in the Southern Caribbean, the ship experienced technical problems affecting its propulsion system. The incident resulted in lower speed. The incident affected the next scheduled 11-night repositioning cruise from NYC to Miami (itinerary Nov 16-27) – Grand Turk was replaced with Nassau.

22 October 2016 Coast Guard Medevacs

On October 22, 2016, a male passenger was medevaced (airlifted) from the ship in the Mediterranean while the liner was en-route from Barcelona to Gibraltar.

28 August 2016 Other Incidents

("Messina incident") On August 28, 2016, while operating maneuvers for leaving the port of Messina (Sicily Island, Italy), the vessel turned over some of the port’s boating piers (at Marina del Nettuno) and flooded several boats that were moored there. The port has a harbor bay (formed by a C-shaped land area) for docking large-sized ships. At the harbor’s entrance (bay’s northwestern part) there is a quay (called Marina del Nettuno) with several concrete piers where smaller boats and yachts are moored.

While the Carnival cruise ship was maneuvering to exit the port, it came too close to the quay. The thrust it produced and the unusual proximity resulted in strong waves reverberating close to the marina dock. This caused some of the piers to turn over and swamped all moored boats, some of which sunk at their moorings. Of the affected piers, two suffered structural damages (one destroyed beyond repair). The ship didn’t stop but was slightly delayed its departure.

The Harbour Master (Messina port authority) opened an investigation of the accident. According to Italian news media sources, the damages caused by the cruise ship were over EURO 250,000 – two piers, broken mooring lines, boats in poor condition.

The incident occurred on a good-weather day. and during a 9-day Barcelona round-trip Mediterranean cruise (itinerary Aug 26 – Sept 3) with call ports Messina, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), Livorno, Marseille, and Palma de Mallorca.

In a similar incident (passing too close to the shore), the Carnival Sunshine ship trapped a water taxi in Venice (Italy) in July 2013.

You can add more details on reported here accident or submit new / your own Carnival Vista ship incident ("Cruise Minus" report) via CruiseMapper's contact form .

• Cruise Ships
• Carnival Vista

Carnival Vista ®

• Dining & Activities
• Past Guest Photos
• Sails From:

We've built a lot of ships over the years, but for a truly unique experience at sea, you've gotta see Carnival Vista. Carnival Vista has a whole new relationship to the sea, and you get to experience this as you explore the Caribbean with all-new views. It's only natural that you'll want to start outdoors… so let's. Wait, are those flying bicycles? Pretty much! SkyRide ® at SportSquare ™ is a twin-track suspended bike course — strap in and race around for the win or just cruise for great views. At Havana Bar ™ & Pool you'll find an island retreat that evokes classic Cuban-style lounging with an emphasis on style... and on views, and on traditional cocktails! Carnival WaterWorks ™ is packed to the gills with wet ways to get-a-splashin', including Kaleid-O-Slide ™ , which adds funky light and color effects to the 'speed-n-splash' story. If you can't get enough Guy Fieri, we invite you to try at Guy's Burger Joint ™ and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse ™ . Rounding out this ship's sunlight highlights is Serenity Adult-Only Retreat ™ , the low-key grown-up spot that's more ‘lounging and hot tubs’ than ‘action and adventure.’ (But Serenity's complimentary chopped salad station gets our inner grown-up excited!) Indoors, things are every bit as cool. Take RedFrog Pub & Brewery ® for example — our Caribbean-cool pub has an onboard brewery producing exclusive craft beers you can enjoy just feet from the brewing kettle. We love to toast to what matters, so Heroes Tribute Bar was made for honoring service members. If you do seafood, you'll want to try Bonsai Sushi ™ or the seaside Seafood Shack ™ , while JiJi Asian Kitchen ® and Cucina del Capitano ® satisfy cuisine-specific cravings. Of course Carnival Vista features a Dr. Seuss Bookville ™ and youth activities for all kinds of kids (the smallers, the tallers and the in-betweeners). On the stateroom side, Carnival Vista adds new types of rooms to the mix: Family Harbor is a special area reserved for families and features a private lounge. All Havana staterooms and suites are located just off the Havana Bar & Pool and feature a unique tropical décor, while Havana Cabanas add a patio with hammock chair! One last thing you should know: on Carnival Vista more onboard places than ever before span the indoors and outdoors — so whether you set the thermostat to 'cool-and-crisp' or 'sea-breezy perfection' you'll enjoy your kind of Caribbean comfort on Carnival Vista.

• 133,500 Gross Tonnage
• 3,934 Guest Capacity
• 1,055 Length In Feet
• 1,450 Onboard Crew

INSIDE THIS SHIP

Just like a delicious cake, your ship is made of layers. Find out which fun ingredients — staterooms, dining, activities — go into each deck.

YOUR STATEROOM

Havana interior.

Amenities exclusive to Havana staterooms and suites:

• Exclusive access to Havana Pool area

Plus, every room includes:

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• In-room safe for valuables
• Stateroom climate control

Cloud 9 Spa Interior

Amenities exclusive to Cloud 9 Spa ™ staterooms and suites:

• Unique welcome ritual
• Priority spa reservations
• Unlimited use of Thermal Suites, plus scrub kit
• Two complimentary fitness classes (per guest)
• Complimentary body composition analysis
• Exclusive discounts on treatments during port days
• Cloud 9 Spa bathrobes and slippers
• Upgraded ELEMIS in-stateroom toiletries

Family Harbor Interior

Amenities exclusive to Family Harbor staterooms and suites:

• Exclusive access to the Family Harbor Lounge
• Daily breakfast and snacks in the Family Harbor Lounge
• A selection of board games, family movies and video games in the Family Harbor Lounge
• Kids eat free at most onboard specialty restaurants
• Free evening of Night Owls ™ babysitting service at Camp Ocean ™

Interior with Picture Window (Walkway View)

Every room includes:

Interior Upper/Lower (Porthole)

Interior upper/lower, cloud 9 spa ocean view (walkway view).

The best way to enjoy the relaxing, invigorating Cloud 9 Spa while on a cruise is in a spa stateroom, and this one fits the bill, providing comfy accommodations and convenient, priority access to treatments and services at the Cloud 9 Spa. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

Family Harbor Deluxe Ocean View

Let the whole family — especially the little ones — experience the wide-eyed wonder of a room with a view: a Family Harbor Deluxe Ocean View stateroom. Not only are the sky, the sea and the sights beautiful to behold from your window, but Family Harbor staterooms feature a unique nautical décor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. And while you sail along, the whole family will enjoy not only exclusive access to the nearby Family Harbor Lounge and more great perks around the ship, but a convenient full bathroom… plus a separate washroom.

Deluxe Ocean View

On Carnival Vista, Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are a great choice for families who want to let the sun shine in as they sail. Rooms of this type feature great views, a full bathroom — plus a separate washroom — and while stateroom configurations vary, certain Deluxe Ocean View rooms have space to sleep up to five cruisers.

Family Harbor Ocean View

Let the whole family — especially the little ones — experience the wide-eyed wonder of sailing in a room with a view: a Family Harbor Ocean View stateroom. Not only will a vacation with a view like this help cultivate a lifelong love of the ocean, but Family Harbor staterooms feature a unique nautical décor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. And while you sail along, the whole family will enjoy exclusive access to the nearby Family Harbor Lounge, plus more great perks around the ship.

Family Harbor Ocean View (Obstructed View)

Cruising goes great with sunshine… and for a room where the family can expect a little extra of the sun’s gold streaming in through their window, check out a Family Harbor Ocean View stateroom with obstructed views. All Family Harbor staterooms feature a unique nautical décor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. And while you sail along, the whole family will enjoy not only exclusive access to the nearby Family Harbor Lounge, but more great perks around the ship.

Ocean View (Obstructed View)

Havana premium vista balcony.

Since no other one will do, we'll go ahead and invent a Spanish word to describe the Havana Premium Vista Balcony stateroom: balconissimo. In this 'balconiest' of Havana staterooms, you'll find classic old-time Cuban decor that's practically overflowing with flavor. And outside — oh, that balcony! — it wraps around for maximum coverage, and the most sea-breezed private lounging area. For a mid-day change of scenery, you'll also have exclusive access to the Havana Pool area. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Havana Premium Balcony

There's more to a Havana Premium Balcony stateroom than just the extra outdoor space for staring out at the ocean. A view like this is entertaining, and this balcony is designed for sharing it. Invite someone special to come along and share the comfy interior as well, featuring classic Havana decor and exclusive access to the Havana Pool area. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Havana Aft-View Extended Balcony

For a stateroom with that classic Havana decor larger balcony and a great view, just look back. A Havana Aft-View Extended Balcony puts you in the rear of the ship, prime location already for enjoying a view of the sea and the ship's wake as you sail along... but perhaps even more so thanks to the larger balcony. And let's not forget about all that Havana flavor — both in-room and out — with exclusive access to the Havana Pool area. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Havana Cabana

There are amenities by the handful in this Havana-flavored stateroom, but the one that'll excite you most of all is likely to be this: Havana Cabana staterooms come with an outdoor patio — complete with your own loungy deck chairs — right outside your room. They also feature Cuba-inspired decor, exclusive access to Havana Pool area and loads of sunlight with floor-to-ceiling window, but like we said... your very own deck chairs! (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Premium Vista Balcony

Premium Vista Balcony staterooms were designed to wrap around the aft corners of Carnival Vista, giving you a unique vantage point from which to enjoy luxuriously panoramic views of the sky and the sea — and yes, take in even more of that sunshine.

Premium Balcony

We designed Carnival Vista balcony staterooms for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, and this stateroom features a balcony that's even wider than our standard balcony. Enjoy the extra outdoor space, along with all the standard Carnival stateroom amenities.

Cloud 9 Spa Balcony

Whether you're warming up for your spa appointment or winding down after your treatment, there's no better place to do it than on your Cloud 9 Spa Balcony. Breathing is important — take the ocean breeze in, then let it out — you're already getting the hang of the whole spa thing!

Aft-View Extended Balcony

Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, more kick-back space... not to even mention some of the best stern-side views you'll find anywhere. Get ready to relax as you gaze upon Carnival Vista's gentle wake from your spacious balcony.

Family Harbor Cove Balcony

If your group likes to sail a little closer to the waves — or just in a calm location at the aft of the ship — choose a Family Harbor Cove Balcony stateroom. You’ll find your outpost a wave-watcher’s paradise… and while we can’t promise, you just might catch a living, swimming marine biology lesson from your railing! This stateroom features a unique nautical décor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. The whole family will also enjoy exclusive access to the nearby Family Harbor Lounge, plus more great perks around the ship.

Balcony staterooms were designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, so look to a balcony if you're looking to cruise aboard Carnival Vista. Any time you're in your room, you're just steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis, featuring the sort of sea view you can also feel.

Cove Balcony

Love the sea? Carnival Vista Cove Balcony staterooms are the best way to see the sea — these rooms get you close to the waterline, and feature balconies that let you make the most of your location. Enjoy things from a whole new perspective: one amazing up-close view of the wake and seafoam as the ship cruises along.

Grand Suite

A Grand Suite aboard Carnival Vista features even more space than the standard suite — there’s plenty of room in your room! This stateroom is loaded for an unparalleled experience: VIP check-in, a huge balcony, and a convenient dressing area with vanity. And outside your room, you’ll even enjoy access to the Havana Pool.

(Guests 12 and up for this pool, please.)

Amenities exclusive to Grand Suites:

Plus, amenities exclusive to suites:

• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority Main Dining Room time assignment
• Priority debarkation at homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30 Am
• Two large bottles of water
• Pillow-top mattress

Havana Cabana Suite

You could call the Havana Cabana Suite the crème de la crème… but that's French. So here's your Spanish lesson for today: la habitación mejor. In "the best room" you'll find all the luxury of a suite, all decked out in Cuba-inspired decor. Outside your Havana Cabana Suite lies a private lounging area with your own deck chairs, plus exclusive access to Havana Pool area... not to mention amenities like VIP check-in, a walk-in closet, and a bathroom with one luxurious rain shower. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Plus, all suites include:

Cloud 9 Spa Suite

A Cloud 9 Spa Suite is the ultimate in both stateroom and spa accommodations. There's room for you and your things — with a large room and balcony — and a walk-in closet. The soothing in-room whirlpool tub will help you stay relaxed after your relaxing spa treatment. And like all suites, a Cloud 9 Spa Suite features VIP check-in, which lets you easily get right up to your amazing stateroom.

Cloud 9 Spa Suite (Obstructed View)

Family harbor suite.

Family life is the sweet life, whether on land or at sea… and especially when in a Family Harbor Suite. Your whole crew will enjoy not only the stretch-out space, huge balcony and other perks a suite offers, but a nautical décor specially-designed for Family Harbor staterooms. And while you sail along, the kids and the adults can make use of exclusive access to the nearby Family Harbor Lounge, plus other exclusive perks around the ship. In-room, there’s a full bathroom… plus the convenience of a separate washroom. A private yacht it’s not… but leave the sailing to us — you’d rather be relaxing anyway.

Ocean Suite

A Carnival Vista suite is the ultimate way to cruise. With more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors, try an Ocean Suite to experience private, luxurious relaxation. Ocean Suites also include VIP check-in, walk-in closet and bathroom with whirlpool tub.

Amenities exclusive to suites:

Junior Suite (Obstructed View)

As you step into a Junior Suite aboard Carnival Vista, you can't help but feel that you're stepping into full-size luxury in a smaller package. Featuring a standard-size balcony, in a Carnival Vista Junior Suite you'll find everything else there is to love about a suite, including VIP check-in, a walk-in closet; and even a whirlpool tub for relaxing. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

Onboard dining, where to for you.

This ship is always visiting great vacation spots. Where will your next vacation take you?

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

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Carnival cruise crew members help rescue 12 people from ocean after cargo vessel capsizes

Carnival vista crew, coast guard pull a total of 12 men out of the water.

Carnival Vista rescues 6 people after cargo vessel capsizes

Video shows the rescue of 6 people from the ocean near the Dominican Republic on Dec. 13, 2023. Courtesy: @torifoster2/LOCAL NEWS X /TMX

Crew members from a Carnival ship assisted in rescuing six men from the ocean after a small cargo vessel capsized, and a passenger captured some of the rescue on camera.

The men were stranded in the ocean near the Dominican Republic early Wednesday morning, Carnival said in a statement. 

"On the way to Amber Cove the Carnival Vista rescued this life raft," a woman posted along with the rescue video on TikTok.

"This is insane," the person believed to be filming can be heard saying. 

THREE-YEAR CRUISE CANCELED WEEKS BEFORE SHOVING OFF, AFTER ONE WOMAN SOLD HER APARTMENT TO JOIN UNIQUE VOYAGE

The rescue was caught on camera by a ship's passenger, identified by TMX as Victoria. (@torifoster2/LOCAL NEWS X /TMX)

Captain Paolo Severini was in command of the Carnival Vista at the time. He immediately altered the ship's course, in coordination with Carnival's Fleet Operations Center in Miami, when the onboard monitoring system received an emergency alert.

"The ship’s officers then spotted six men on a life raft and stopped to rescue them and bring them on board," the cruise line said. 

COAST GUARD CALLS OFF SEARCH FOR MISSING CARNIVAL CRUISE SHIP PASSENGER

A look at the Carnival Vista, the ship that stopped to rescue six men in the middle of the ocean. (Carnival Cruise Line)

The Carnival team learned of six additional crew members from the small cargo vessel, and alerted U.S. Coast Guard officials. The Coast Guard launched a search while Carnival Vista continued on its route to Amber Cove. 

Carnival said the Coast Guard successfully rescued the six additional people.

Carnival Vista's officers spotted six men on a life raft and stopped to rescue them. (Carnival Cruise Line)

The life raft carrying the men is seen right below the Carnival Vista. (Carnival Cruise Line)

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON FOX BUSINESS   

Carnival Vista is currently sailing a six-day itinerary, expected to port at Grand Turk Island on Thursday, according to CruiseMapper. 

The ship is expected back in Florida Saturday. 

• Carnival Cruise Lines

6/22 Carnival Vista delayed?

By MsRay1961 , June 15, 2019 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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  received this email from Carnival regarding our 6/22 8 days cruise:  

"Dear Carnival Vista Guest,

Carnival Vista is experiencing an issue affecting its maximum cruising speed. Our technical team completed their full assessment of the necessary work once the ship arrived in Galveston today. Unfortunately, due to the reduced cruising speed, it was necessary to extend the cruise departing on June 15 to an 8 day sailing, returning June 23.    We apologize for the impact this will have on your vacation plans. Our team is in the process of assessing the status of your cruise and we will get back to you with an update no later than 6:00 PM (EST) Tuesday, June 18, 2019.   If you have air travel plans, please do not reschedule your flights until you receive our update. In the event you have any air related change fees, Carnival will provide reimbursement.    We appreciate your patience and understanding."

So, I assume our 6/22 cruise would now depart on 6/23, but still waiting to hear back from Carnival.  They'll have to get back to Saturday-Saturday schedules soon, so I think they will shorten our 8 day cruise.  I hope they don't remove Belize from the itinerary.  

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19 minutes ago, MsRay1961 said: received this email from Carnival regarding our 6/22 8 days cruise:   "Dear Carnival Vista Guest,   Carnival Vista is experiencing an issue affecting its maximum cruising speed. Our technical team completed their full assessment of the necessary work once the ship arrived in Galveston today. Unfortunately, due to the reduced cruising speed, it was necessary to extend the cruise departing on June 15 to an 8 day sailing, returning June 23.    We apologize for the impact this will have on your vacation plans. Our team is in the process of assessing the status of your cruise and we will get back to you with an update no later than 6:00 PM (EST) Tuesday, June 18, 2019.   If you have air travel plans, please do not reschedule your flights until you receive our update. In the event you have any air related change fees, Carnival will provide reimbursement.    We appreciate your patience and understanding."

19 minutes ago, MsRay1961 said: So, I assume our 6/22 cruise would now depart on 6/23, but still waiting to hear back from Carnival.  They'll have to get back to Saturday-Saturday schedules soon, so I think they will shorten our 8 day cruise.  I hope they don't remove Belize from the itinerary.     TIA, Vickie

They will most likely reduce the number of days from 8 days to 7 days. I assume that you were originally going to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan and Costa Maya. Chances are that you will miss Costa Maya, but not any other port. 

eccentricfang

I'm on the June 22nd cruise on the Vista and it wasn't an 8 day cruise...it was a 7 day that was leaving Saturday and returning Saturday...we scrambled to get a hotel room for the extra night in Galveston and just have to wait to see what the length will end up being.

I called Carnival today due to their email being very vague. It does not state when our previously scheduled 6/22 cruise on the Vista will leave. After speaking to 4 customer service representatives, I spoke with a mngr. She stated the cruise will now be shortened to 5 days or be canceled all together. The decision will not be made until 6/18. Great job Carnival, way to leave your customers hanging.

TNcruising02

Oh wow, how disappointing for the people scheduled on this cruise!!

39 minutes ago, Tagb123 said: I called Carnival today due to their email being very vague. It does not state when our previously scheduled 6/22 cruise on the Vista will leave. After speaking to 4 customer service representatives, I spoke with a mngr. She stated the cruise will now be shortened to 5 days or be canceled all together. The decision will not be made until 6/18. Great job Carnival, way to leave your customers hanging.

I really hope this is not the case. Hopefully only shortened to 6. We payed way too much for it to only be 5 days.

Carnival did state they will reimburse for the 2 days or the full cruise if canceled. It's very disappointing they add an extra day to the cruise sailing before ours, but then decide to shorten or cancel the 6/22 cruise. I was told to just "book" another cruise if it's canceled. Obviously Carnival does not understand most people have jobs and a lot of planning goes into vacations. We cannot just change our vacation to another week. I will never book another cruise with Carnival again. I understand things happen but the way they speak to their customers is uncalled for. Extremely disappointed our vacation is on the verge of being canceled and told to just wait it out....

2 minutes ago, Tagb123 said: Carnival did state they will reimburse for the 2 days or the full cruise if canceled. It's very disappointing they add an extra day to the cruise sailing before ours, but then decide to shorten or cancel the 6/22 cruise. I was told to just "book" another cruise if it's canceled. Obviously Carnival does not understand most people have jobs and a lot of planning goes into vacations. We cannot just change our vacation to another week. I will never book another cruise with Carnival again. I understand things happen but the way they speak to their customers is uncalled for. Extremely disappointed our vacation is on the verge of being canceled and told to just wait it out....  

Yeah we're pretty disappointed too. I already looked at Carnivals other ships leaving Galveston and they are all booked. Pretty much all the way through July. Not sure how they can tell us to re-book. We brought our grandma from mexico to come with us on this cruise and here we are... A possibility of it being cancelled or shortened.

Vista isn't that old. Why does she have such a huge problem? That's at least 3 cruises in a row with issues. This must not be a small repair.

This really sucks for everyone booked that week.

3 minutes ago, Whatnah78 said: Yeah we're pretty disappointed too. I already looked at Carnivals other ships leaving Galveston and they are all booked. Pretty much all the way through July. Not sure how they can tell us to re-book. We brought our grandma from mexico to come with us on this cruise and here we are... A possibility of it being cancelled or shortened.

It's hard to know what to do when they are not making a decision until 6/18. Our travel plans are up in the air until they decide what they're doing. I'm so disappointed with Carnival.

4 minutes ago, Tagb123 said: It's hard to know what to do when they are not making a decision until 6/18. Our travel plans are up in the air until they decide what they're doing. I'm so disappointed with Carnival.

It really is difficult. Right now me and my family are just here waiting till the 18th so we know what we need to do. My hope is they just fix the propulsion issues on the cruise that's going on right now and maybe they could get back to port on time. Or they email every future cruises and tell them the Vista will now be sailing from sunday-sunday but that is lots to ask for in itself.

I was hoping the same, Sun-Sun. The Carnival representative who called her self a manager stated they do not want to disrupt anymore cruises following ours. That is why ours is taking the brunt of it. She was pretty certain it would become a 5 day or be canceled if they could not accommodate that. 

1 minute ago, Tagb123 said: I was hoping the same, Sun-Sun. The Carnival representative who called her self a manager stated they do not want to disrupt anymore cruises following ours. That is why ours is taking the brunt of it. She was pretty certain it would become a 5 day or be canceled if they could not accommodate that. 

Did she mention where it will be going? If anything i hope it will go to Roatan and Belize cause on our previous cruises with Carnival we have been to cozumel multiple times.

She could not tell me an itinerary. She stated if it's not canceled we would set sail 6/23, 24 or 25 and the cruise would be shortened. Her guess was a 5 day cruise, she mentioned that she has been with Carnival for a long time and this is what usually happened. Although no guarantees until the itinerary is released 6/18. I was disappointed how it was not a big deal to her. We've had this vacation planned for months and I was basically told my best bet is to cancel, receive 100% refund and rebook. 

6 minutes ago, Tagb123 said: She could not tell me an itinerary. She stated if it's not canceled we would set sail 6/23, 24 or 25 and the cruise would be shortened. Her guess was a 5 day cruise, she mentioned that she has been with Carnival for a long time and this is what usually happened. Although no guarantees until the itinerary is released 6/18. I was disappointed how it was not a big deal to her. We've had this vacation planned for months and I was basically told my best bet is to cancel, receive 100% refund and rebook.   

This is crazy. This cruise was also fully booked so there are many disappointed people such as me and you. They are about to make people switch to Royal Caribbean. They better give a very good compensation. Hopefully %100 cruise credit for future cruises with Carnival. No matter how many days it is.

If I have to cancel....I will definitely never book with Carnival again. We will go with another cruise line. I've never been treated so poorly by a company in my entire life. Again I realize things happen beyond their control but they need better customer service. 

Amanda who called herself a mngr. Said if I canceled I'd only be compensated for my cruise....so dissappointing!

Just now, Tagb123 said: If I have to cancel....I will definitely never book with Carnival again. We will go with another cruise line. I've never been treated so poorly by a company in my entire life. Again I realize things happen beyond their control but they need better customer service. 

Honestly i just hope they AT LEAST make it a 6 day. if not i would expect a refund on the ports we don't go to and a darn good Cruise Director. I just want my grandma to go on her first cruise before she can't walk anymore.

1 minute ago, Tagb123 said: Amanda who called herself a mngr. Said if I canceled I'd only be compensated for my cruise....so dissappointing!

All we can hope for is for Amanda to be wrong.

John Heald posted on Facebook that the passengers on the current cruise are receiving very generous compensation for the changed itinerary: $200 onboard credit, 50% future cruise credit, up to $200 for change fees for flights, plus free gratuities for the extra day and extending any week-long packages for internet and drinks a day at no additional cost. I'm sure the passengers scheduled to leave next week will receive something generous as well. I would wait until Tuesday before deciding whether to cancel or not. A 5- or 6-day cruise can still be a lot of fun. 

7 hours ago, Whatnah78 said: This is crazy. This cruise was also fully booked so there are many disappointed people such as me and you. They are about to make people switch to Royal Caribbean. They better give a very good compensation. Hopefully %100 cruise credit for future cruises with Carnival. No matter how many days it is.

You're not going to get a free cruise just because you were inconvenienced for one or two days. That's not how any of this works.

Inconvenienced a day or 2? So far Carnival customer service is stating the cruise will be shortened, no idea how long yet or just canceled. Vacationers have travel plans that just can't change on a whim. It's beyond our control. This is more than a day or 2 inconvenience. Our vacation that has been planned for months is now on hold, no idea when we'll leave or if we will ever leave. They are telling customers to "just cancel" if you call their customer service, no info is available and the cruise is less than a week away.....DISAPPOINTING!

2 hours ago, geoherb said: John Heald posted on Facebook that the passengers on the current cruise are receiving very generous compensation for the changed itinerary: $200 onboard credit, 50% future cruise credit, up to $200 for change fees for flights, plus free gratuities for the extra day and extending any week-long packages for internet and drinks a day at no additional cost. I'm sure the passengers scheduled to leave next week will receive something generous as well. I would wait until Tuesday before deciding whether to cancel or not. A 5- or 6-day cruise can still be a lot of fun. 

I would sure hope it's a generous compensation. The Cruise that's current has amazing compensation and an extra day!!!

1 hour ago, Sean_B said: You're not going to get a free cruise just because you were inconvenienced for one or two days. That's not how any of this works.

More than one of two days... Especially if it's cancelled I'm pretty sure it's a possibility.

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Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise of the Port Canaveral-based ship for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the ship's next two cruises are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

Thousands of passengers with scheduled cruises will be affected by the canceled cruises during a busy spring break period for Carnival and other cruise lines.

Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cay due to adverse weather.

Details of previous fire: Fire breaks out on Carnival Freedom while Port Canaveral-based ship was in Grand Turk

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

The Freedom sailed into the channel at Port Canaveral around 7:30 a.m. Monday, and docked at Cruise Terminal 6, letting off the passengers who were on the cruise. Carnival then awaited a Coast Guard inspection of the ship before it could be cleared to leave Port Canaveral for the Freeport shipyard for repairs. The ship left the port about 6:20 p.m.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The sailing had about 3,700 passengers onboard. And the two upcoming sailings that were canceled each likely would have had a similar passenger count, because this is a busy time for the cruise industry.

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022, a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54

Video shows Carnival Freedom on fire, again. Two upcoming cruises were canceled. Here's what to know

The Carnival Freedom 's next two sailings have been canceled after the cruise ship, based out of Florida, caught fire . Again.

Carnival initially said there were no expected changes in its schedule but on Sunday afternoon announced cancellations of the Monday and Friday cruises out of Port Canaveral, which come during a busy spring break period.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

This is the second time in less than two years this cruise ship's funnel has caught on fire and disrupted the schedule.

Carnival cruise fire: Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

When did the Carnival Freedom catch on fire?

The fire broke out on the port side of the ship's exhaust funnel area at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, Carnival said.

The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas. It was intended to call on the Carnival private island of Princess Cay but had rerouted toward Freeport due to adverse weather.

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. The fire was put out by 5:20 p.m., the cruise line said.

Why did the Carnival Freedom cruise ship catch fire?

Unknown at this time.

"Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated," Carnival said, "but cannot yet be confirmed."

Was anyone hurt in the Carnival Freedom fire?

The cruise line said there were no reports of passenger injuries, although two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation and part of the funnel fell onto Deck 10, according to Carnival.

There were about 3.700 passengers aboard.

Which Carnival Freedom cruises have been canceled?

While initially the cruise line said the schedule would not be affected, further investigation found more damage than suspected. Scheduled cruises for Monday, March 25 and Friday, March 29 have been canceled.

Can I get a refund for my canceled Carnival Freedom cruise?

"We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation<' Carnival Cruises said in a statement. "We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

Where is Port Canaveral?

Port Canaveral, Florida is located on a barrier island between the Banana River and the Atlantic Ocean just north of Cape Canaveral. The port is 54 miles from Orlando and 75 miles from Daytona Beach.

What is the funnel on a cruise ship?

A cruise ship exhaust funnel works as a smokestack to lift emissions away from the deck and from passengers and crew. They're often called stacks.

The Carnival Freedom debuted a new stylized winged funnel in October last year after a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain. Carnival cruise funnels are referred to as the whale tail.

Has the Carnival Freedom cruise ship caught on fire before?

A fire broke out in the funnel area in May 2022 while it was docked in Grand Turk. Three scheduled sailings were canceled while the ship was repaired at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

The ship was carrying about 2,500 passengers at the time and a crew of about 1,100, according to the cruise line. There were no injuries reported.

Which cruise ship caught fire?

The  Carnival Freedom  caught on fire on Saturday, March 23.

The 110,000-ton vessel made its inaugural sail in 2007.  The Freedom, which has 13 decks, can hold up to 3,754 passengers and 1,150 crew members. 

Has a Carnival cruise ship ever sank?

No. But one has been shipwrecked.

On Jan. 13, 2012, the Costa Concordia struck a reef and capsized off the Tuscan island of Giglio. The ship, which was owned by a Carnival Corporation subsidiary, when the captain steered the 952-foot, 13-deck ship close to the shore to "impress the passengers" and tore a 160-foot gash in the port hull.

Captain Francesco Schettino was found guilty of manslaughter in 2015 and sentenced to 16 years in prison for the deaths of 32 passengers and crewmembers.

Cruises canceled following Carnival Freedom fire during busy spring break season

T wo cruises have been canceled this week during the busy spring break travel season, following a fire on the Carnival Freedom  the second on the ship in less than two years. 

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," a Carnival spokesman told Fox Business.

Initial information from Carnival about the fire came on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, confirming the fire broke out at 3:15 p.m. ET Saturday on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel while it was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas.  

Passengers with upcoming cruises nearly immediately began asking if they would be canceled, and at the time Carnival said no. However, "a thorough assessment" was completed in Freeport on Sunday, requiring it to return to the shipyard on Monday afternoon for the required repairs to stabilize the funnel. 

CARNIVAL FREEDOM CRUISE SHIP CATCHES FIRE FOR SECOND TIME IN LESS THAN 2 YEARS

While multiple witnesses reported a lightning strike, Carnival is investigating the cause of the fire. The ship's onboard team quickly extinguished the fire and no injuries were reported.

READ ON THE FOX BUSINESS APP

"It was scary, very scary, fire on a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean," passenger Jamie Eubanks told FOX 35 Orlando while disembarking in Port Canaveral on Monday.

CARNIVAL FREEDOM CRUISE SHIP SEEN ON FIRE AT GRAND TURK

Cruisers told the TV station the top deck was closed the rest of the trip, and they did not get to visit all the ports planned for their itinerary. 

"We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation," the Carnival statement reads. The cruise line is providing guests on both canceled cruises with a full refund and a 100 percent future cruise credit. 

COAST GUARD CALLS OFF SEARCH FOR MISSING CARNIVAL CRUISE SHIP PASSENGER

Carnival thanked the passengers who were onboard during the fire, noting their "outstanding cooperation and support."

The Freedom's exhaust funnel previously caught fire in May 2022 while the ship was docked at Grand Turk Island in Turks and Caicos. Video from then also showed the ship’s funnel – referred to by some as the whale tail – consumed by flames and smoke. 

CARNIVAL CRUISE CREW MEMBERS HELP RESCUE 12 PEOPLE FROM OCEAN AFTER CARGO VESSEL CAPSIZES

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON FOX BUSINESS  

The part of the ship that caught fire is designed to help direct the flow of exhaust gases away from the ship, according to the Crown Cruise Vacations website. 

Fox Business' Greg Norman contributed to this report. 

Original article source: Cruises canceled following Carnival Freedom fire during busy spring break season

Don't be dissuaded: Days at sea can be the best thing during a cruise

I woke up on the last morning of a cruise last month with big plans to do nothing.

The ship, Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Venezia , was making its return to New York from Bermuda and I was staring down an entire day at sea. I found the ship’s remote position in the North Atlantic Ocean made a great excuse to be lazy.

After several early mornings in a row with jam-packed daily agendas, I slept in late, lounged on my stateroom balcony and caught up on my reading. Surrounded by water, the restless impulse that would have prompted me to run errands or do chores at home eased, too, even with a long list of available activities on the ship’s daily schedule.

“There’s plenty of stuff to do on a sea day as far as I'm concerned,” said Valerie Dorsey, a franchise owner and travel adviser at Cruise Planners. “And there's nothing to do if that's what you want.”

Unlike some other kinds of travel, cruises can be as much about the journey as their destinations, and sea days are different from port days. Here’s how to make the most of them.

Check the ship’s sea day schedule

Cruise ships can feel relatively quiet on port days when guests disembark to explore. “But on a sea day, you're going to have everybody occupying every available space and doing many more activities,” Dorsey said. To meet that demand, cruise lines generally offer more programming.

On my cruise, Carnival’s Hub app showed various kinds of trivia, volleyball and dodgeball tournaments, an art auction, a seminar on improving posture, karaoke and more on the docket.

Cruise lines may also offer sales at onboard shops during sea days, Dorsey said, and she even took a mixology class on a recent Antarctica cruise with Celebrity Cruises.

Kevin and Frank Cefalu-McNamara have a strategy for narrowing so many options down. The couple, who have been on more than 30 cruises and make cruise content under the name Cruising With Wheels , mark up the daily program cruise lines distribute with different colored highlighters over breakfast.

Frank might have a yellow highlighter, for instance, while Kevin has blue, which the Rochester, New York, pair use to note agenda items that look appealing. “And yellow and blue make green, so all the green things we know we're going to do,” said Kevin, 48, who also works as a hairdresser.

Mother Nature can also dictate what the ship offers. In bad weather, cruise lines often cancel activities on outside decks and replace them with others inside, Kevin said.

Watch out for crowds

More guests on the ship also mean more crowds. On sea days, cruise passengers may find themselves scouring the pool for open lounge chairs or waiting in longer lines for food.

Many passengers try to sleep in on those days, according to Dorsey. “But if the pool is your destination, getting there and claiming a seat right away is important,” she said. However, travelers should note that cruise lines ask guests not to save seats they aren’t using.

Dorsey recommended exploring the ship after boarding, which can help passengers find quieter areas to sunbathe. “I would say scope out where you want to go and keep it in mind for the day that you know you're going to be at sea,” she said.

The very back of the ship often provides a reprieve from congestion elsewhere on board.

Want a Caribbean getaway?: Celebrity Cruises adds new weekend sailings, more

The Cefalu-McNamaras also avoid certain parts of the ship at certain times. “We don't go to the buffet for breakfast, and we don't go to the buffet for lunch because it is going to be the most crowded area during those times,” Kevin said. Instead, they might start the day at a sit-down restaurant, which tends to be less packed.

Dorsey said “timing is everything.” If lunch opens at 11 a.m., for instance, the rush may have died down by 1 or 2 p.m.

As alternatives, the main dining room is usually open for lunch, as are some specialty restaurants, according to Dorsey – though the latter comes with an extra charge . There may also be small venues around the ship “nobody thinks of,” she said.

“So, you kind of need to scout around,” she said. “If you're not set on what you want to eat, and the buffet looks crowded, start walking.”

For extroverted travelers, though, sea days can present an opportunity. “If you don't mind the crowds, it’s a good day for meeting people,” Dorsey said.

Seize the opportunity to chill

Just because a ship stacks its schedule doesn’t mean you have to partake, though. Guests may find the days between ports of call provide a chance to get the rest many travelers seek on vacation.

“There's a lot to be said for finding quiet spots to read on a sea day,” Dorsey said. “If you've got a balcony, you're more likely to sit out there and put your feet up and maybe take a nap, because that is something that you don't get to do when you're working every day.”

Some trips may also lend themselves to chilling on board more than others. On a Mediterranean cruise, Frank said his days in port were “go go go go go, and on the ship (during) sea days, it is mostly drinking and relaxing.”

Caribbean cruise port days, on the other hand, may be more relaxed, leaving guests extra energy for when they get back on the ship.

Even in the face of so much to do, consider giving yourself permission to relax. “We're so trained to be alert and aware and ever vigilant that sometimes just resting is an activity,” Dorsey said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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The 26 best new cruise ships for 2024.

Check out these exciting new vessels before booking your next cruise.

The Best New Cruise Ships

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas will be the world's biggest new cruise ship.

Cruising is one of the fastest growing sectors of tourism, with passenger numbers projected to reach 37.2 million by 2025, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Cruise lines are responding to this growth by building new (and often, larger) vessels with all the bells and whistles, including technological advancements that are more environmentally friendly and create the capability to use alternative fuels.

U.S. News has compiled this roundup of new cruise ships that have just set sail or are scheduled to launch later in 2023 and in 2024, plus a preview of new ships coming in 2025 and beyond. The list includes everything from expedition and luxury yacht-style vessels to reimagined ships and megaships – plus the debut of a brand-new cruise line.

• New ships for 2023
• New ships for 2024
• New ships for 2025 (and beyond)

Oceania Vista: May 2023

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Top feature: Luxurious, distinctive spaces

Fares begin around: $2,899 per person (double occupancy) for a 10-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean

Debuted in May 2023, Oceania Vista is the first ship in Oceania Cruises ' new Allura class and the line's first new ship in 10 years. The 1,200-passenger, all-veranda vessel features a fresh interior design inspired by nature. The elegant new signature spaces include the dramatic Grand Staircase, the reimagined Martinis bar, the clubby Grand Lounge and 180-degree ocean views from the floor-to-ceiling windows at Horizons.

Another highlight of the new ship is the luxurious Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. Elevated dining concepts on Oceania Vista include the new venue Ember, wellness-inspired cuisine at Aquamar Kitchen and The Bakery at Baristas, which specializes in French and Italian pastries.

Book an  Oceania  cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Carnival Venezia: May 2023

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Top feature: Italian-style ship

Fares begin around: $419 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night cruise to the Bahamas

Sails to: Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England, Panama Canal

Originally built for the Chinese cruise market in 2019, Carnival Venezia first sailed throughout Asia under the Costa Cruises brand. It headed to Europe in 2020, then was reintroduced as a Carnival Cruise Line vessel in 2023. The rebranded ship, now homeported in the U.S., features Carnival's "Fun Italian Style" concept, with Venetian-style artwork and the Piazza San Marco atrium – not to mention Italian-inspired beverages and dishes at venues like Frizzante, Amari, Marco Polo, the Canal Grande Restaurant and La Strada Grill.

The 4,090-passenger ship has classic Carnival favorites, too, like Bonsai Teppanyaki, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Piano Bar 88 and the Serenity Bar. Guests will also find Carnival's Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, three kids clubs, the outdoor SportSquare and onboard water park WaterWorks.

Find a  Carnival  cruise on GoToSea.

Resilient Lady: May 2023

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Top feature: New and exciting entertainment offerings

Fares begin around: $2,550 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to the Greek islands

Sails to: Europe, Middle East, Asia, Australia and South Pacific

Virgin Voyages' third adults-only ship , Resilient Lady , debuted with its MerMaiden voyage sailing the Greek islands in May 2023. The new 2,762-passenger ship offers the same features as its sister ships, including more than 20 dining venues with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs, an impressive fitness and wellness program, and superyacht-inspired cabins.

The immersive entertainment is one highlight on the new Virgin ship, with shows like rock 'n' roll "Persephone," a concept from the Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes produced by Kaleidoscope Immersive. The Supper Club Series featuring Another Rose is a new show by Randy Weiner of theatrical performance "Sleep No More." The evening with the Supper Club includes a dining experience with cabaret and acrobatic performances in a tale of ill-fated love.

Explore  Virgin Voyages  deals on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia: June 2023

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Top feature: Commitment to sustainable cruising and environmental stewardship

Fares begin around: $219 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Northern Europe cruise

Sails to: Northern and Western Europe

The LNG-powered MSC Euribia has several features that exemplify the line's commitment to sustainable cruising , including an advanced onboard wastewater treatment system and energy-saving equipment like smart heating, air conditioning and ventilation. MSC Euribia's hull, decorated with the hashtag #SaveTheSea, was designed by artist Alex Flämig and is also a symbol of MSC Cruises ' dedication to preserving our fragile marine ecosystem.

One of the most striking features on MSC's fifth (and final) Meraviglia-class ship is the two-story Galleria Euribia. The 360-foot-long Mediterranean-style promenade – lined with shops, restaurants and bars – sits beneath the longest LED dome at sea. Another highlight is the Carousel Lounge at the aft of the ship. The new space features floor-to-ceiling windows, indoor and outdoor areas, and Big Band at Sea: a 19-piece in-house group of musicians and entertainers. MSC Euribia can accommodate up to 6,327 passengers.

Compare  MSC Cruises  on GoToSea.

Viking Saturn: June 2023

Courtesy of Viking

Top feature: "Residential design" (found on all Viking ocean vessels)

Fares begin around: $2,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Mainland Europe, British Isles, Iceland, Mediterranean and India

The 930-passenger Viking Saturn is the ninth ship in the Viking Ocean Cruises fleet and identical in design to its eight sister ships. The all-veranda vessel offers six categories of accommodations ranging from the 270-square-foot Veranda Stateroom to the spacious 1,448-square-foot Owner's Suite. On board, guests will enjoy the sleek, elegant Scandinavian-inspired public spaces and lounges. The line's enrichment program includes lectures with resident historians, TED Talks and sessions with world-renowned guest speakers. There are eight dining venues featuring destination-focused cuisine, the Nordic Spa with its snow grotto, two pools and hot tubs, and a sports deck.

Book a  Viking Ocean cruise on GoToSea.

Norwegian Viva: August 2023

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Top feature: Indulge Food Hall

Fares begin around: $629 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night Greek islands cruise

The line's second Prima-class ship, Norwegian Viva mirrors the elevated design of sister ship Norwegian Prima . The new ship features six complimentary dining venues, including globally inspired dishes at Indulge Food Hall, pub fare at The Local Bar & Grill and 270-degree ocean views at the beautifully redesigned main restaurant, Hudson's.

The Haven on Viva is the most exclusive and spacious private enclave in Norwegian Cruise Line 's fleet; it was designed by one of Italy's leading designers, Piero Lissoni. Guests will also find updated styling at Mandara Spa. There's no shortage of entertainment on Viva; it's home to the first free-fall dry slide in the world, a three-story racetrack, high-tech mini-golf and the musical "Beetlejuice." Viva has the capacity to carry up to 3,099 guests.

Find a  Norwegian Cruise Line  itinerary on GoToSea.

Explora I: August 2023

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

Top feature: Luxury details and design, with a focus on sustainability

Fares begin around: $3,000 per person (double occupancy) for a six-night cruise to the Caribbean and Columbia

Sails to: Mediterranean and Western Europe, Caribbean and Central America, U.S. (including Hawaii) and Canada, Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula

Explora I is the first of six luxury vessels for new cruise line Explora Journeys. Owned by the Aponte family and MSC Group, the elegant 922-guest ship combines Swiss precision with modern European craftsmanship, offering suites and residences that are comfortable and spacious enough to be considered "homes at sea."

Guests can explore 14 decks offering nearly 27,000 square feet of outdoor space. Lounge at four pools (one with a retractable glass roof), book a rejuvenating body treatment at the spa, work out at the fitness center or browse the boutiques. There are also six dining venues, 12 bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen for culinary classes and private dining. Regional wine pairings will accompany the onboard dining experience, which includes Pan-Asian, Mediterranean and French cuisine, as well as classic steakhouse offerings.

Compare  Explora Journeys  cruises on GoToSea.

Silver Nova: August 2023

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Top feature: Ship's asymmetrical deck plan, which offers more open spaces and higher ceilings

Fares begin around: $3,850 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Central and South America

Sails to: Caribbean, Central America, South America, U.S. West Coast, Alaska, Canada, Asia, Australia and New Zealand

Silversea Cruises' newest ship is the 728-guest Silver Nova . The 12th vessel in the fleet is ultra-luxurious and offers one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the industry. Two highlights are the ship's asymmetrical design and aft suites, which have 270-degree views. Silver Nova's nine dining options include S.A.L.T. Kitchen's destination-inspired menus, Silversea 's classic dining experience at Atlantide and French cuisine at La Dame. Silver Nova is also Silversea's most environmentally friendly vessel yet.

Explore  Silversea  cruises on GoToSea.

Seven Seas Grandeur: November 2023

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Top feature: "Journey in Jewels," the first Fabergé egg at sea

Fares begin around: $3,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Mexico and Central America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean and Panama Canal

The 746-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur will be Regent Seven Seas Cruises' third Explorer-class vessel when it launches late this fall. While Grandeur is similar to its two sister ships, Explorer and Splendor , the new vessel features updated lounges, restaurants, spa spaces and suites. The line's signature Regent Suite – coming in at an impressive 4,443 square feet – has also been redesigned by Miami firm Studio DADO.

A few additional standout spaces include the art nouveau design of the Observation Lounge (located at the bow of the ship) and the reimagined Serene Spa. The stunning new Compass Rose is the ship's main dining room. Meanwhile, the onboard art collection is also notable: Seven Seas Grandeur will set sail with the first Fabergé egg at sea.

Compare  Regent Seven Seas  cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Ascent: November 2023

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Top feature: 32 restaurants, bars and lounges, including the redesigned Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud

Fares begin around: $756 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean

Sails to: Europe, Caribbean

The fourth ship in Celebrity Cruises' Edge class, Celebrity Ascent , will accommodate up to 3,260 passengers and offer the same features as other ships in the series. There are 32 bars, lounges and restaurants, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud.

Other favorites from the Edge-class ships will return on Ascent, such as the multideck Sunset Bar and an open-air Rooftop Garden with floating pools that are cantilevered over the edge of the ship. It's also home to Celebrity's Magic Carpet, a multipurpose 90-ton deck that moves up and down the side of the ship between Decks 2, 5, 14 and 16; it's used for everything from tendering passengers to hosting happy hours and private functions and late-night parties. Guests will also find Celebrity 's innovative Infinite Veranda staterooms and the exclusive ship-within-a ship concept of The Retreat.

Book a  Celebrity Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea.

Carnival Jubilee: December 2023

Top feature: Two new ocean-themed zones, Currents and The Shores

Fares begin around: $669 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Western Caribbean

Carnival's newest ship in the Excel class, Carnival Jubilee , will offer six zones (fun themed areas) for up to 6,631 passengers. The LNG-powered vessel features two new zones: Currents and The Shores. Currents is an immersive space with innovative technology such as LED windows and a wave-shaped LED Ceiling. Located on Decks 6 and 7, the space offers new venues for imbibing, dining and listening to live music, such as casual bar Inks, Ph.D and stylish lounge The Golden Mermaid. This is also where you'll find Emeril's Bistro 717.

The Shores, located on Deck 8, features a three-deck-high art installation of a school of fish, a boardwalk, and vibrant colors throughout the indoor and outdoor spaces. Dining and bar venues include Rudi's Seagrill, Cucina del Capitano and Marina Bar. Enjoy other returning Carnival favorites on Jubilee such as the BOLT sea coaster, Waterworks, SportSquare, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina.

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Icon of the Seas: January 2024

Top feature: Largest cruise ship in the world, carrying up to 7,600 passengers

Fares begin around: $1,930 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean

Icon of the Seas is the first Icon-class vessel in the Royal Caribbean International fleet – and the first new class of ship since 2014. When the massive vessel debuts in January 2024, it will replace Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas as the largest ship at sea (Icon of the Seas is 6% larger). The ship features eight distinct neighborhoods – including the new Surfside neighborhood, a colorful space geared toward family fun with kids clubs, Splashaway Bay, themed eateries and bars, adjacent staterooms and more.

There are four additional new neighborhoods as well. Thrill Island features Category 6, the largest water park at sea, while Chill Island boasts the line's first swim-up bar and The Hideaway features the first suspended infinity pool at sea. AquaDome, the impressive glass-enclosed space at the top of the ship, is home to the AquaTheater, panoramic ocean views, a waterfall, and bars and restaurants.

Sun Princess: February 2024

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Top feature: Princess Cruises' largest ship and the first in the line's Sphere class

Fares begin around: $577 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean, Mediterranean

Sun Princess will have many new attractions when it launches in early 2024. It has the most balconies on any Princess Cruises ' ship, and you'll find exciting new dining, activity and entertainment offerings. One notable highlight is Park19, a top-deck space with activities for kids of all ages, including the Sea Breeze Rollglider, the first ride of its kind on a cruise ship. This new attraction soars 19 decks high and offers unparalleled views of the ocean below.

Cruisers can enjoy additional spaces like a two-story dome that is a pool during the day and a stage for shows at night; the European-inspired Piazza, which offers ocean vistas from nearly every angle; the Princess Arena, a high-tech performance space; the elegant three-story Horizons Dining Room; and the new Wake View Terrace with an infinity pool. There are also new styles of accommodations and expanded offerings for young children, tweens and teens. Sun Princess can accommodate up to 4,300 passengers.

Queen Anne: May 2024

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Top feature: The Pavilion, a glass-enclosed pool area with a retractable roof

Fares begin around: $1,199 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Canary Islands, Mediterranean, Northern and Western Europe, Iceland, British Isles, Australia, Asia, Africa and Indian Ocean

When Queen Anne launches in spring 2024, it will be Cunard Line's 249th ship since the company's inception in 1840, and the line's first new vessel in 14 years. The 3,000-passenger ship will feature a fresh, modern design, yet still give a nod to the Cunard's art deco past.

Once on board, guests will discover new entertainment venues like the Bright Lights Society show bar and more wide-open spaces throughout the ship, as well as Cunard 's first two-story theater. New international dining options include Japanese restaurant Aji Wa with sushi and omakase menus, plus Indian cuisine at Aranya. Queen Anne also offers an extensive health and wellness program in collaboration with health group Mareel that features a large thermal suite, a spa pool and a top-deck wellness studio.

Find a  Cunard  cruise on GoToSea.

Utopia of the Seas: July 2024

Top feature: Three- and four-night ultimate weekend getaways

Fares begin around: $471 per person (double occupancy) for a three-night Bahamas cruise

Sails to: Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's private island)

Utopia of the Seas will be Royal Caribbean's sixth (and final) Oasis-class ship when it debuts in summer 2024. With a capacity of 5,668 passengers, the vessel will join the line's other Oasis- and Icon-class ships as the largest cruise ships sailing on the high seas. The ship will have the same eight neighborhoods as other Oasis-class ships, including Central Park, The Boardwalk and the Pool & Sports Zone.

The 40-plus food and beverage options will include new additions like the Pesky Parrot bar and a themed "mixed reality" dining experience that takes place on a train. A reimagined playscape is another addition, with nets, games, puzzles, slides and climbing walls for junior cruisers. The line's Ultimate Abyss – a dry slide with 10 stories of thrilling twists and turns – will now stretch an additional 43 feet, making it the longest dry slide at sea.

Explora II: August 2024

Top feature: Luxurious cabins

Fares begin around: $4,500 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean and Central America, Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula and Red Sea, India, Indian Ocean and Africa

As sister ship to Explora I, Explora II will offer the same transformative travel experience for 922 guests. The luxury vessel will feature 461 oceanfront suites with private terraces. Cruisers can take advantage of 11 culinary options across six dining venues, a dozen indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen. Guests will also have access to four pools, 64 private cabanas and wellness facilities.

Silver Ray: Summer 2024

Top feature: One of the most spacious ships ever built; extraordinary space-to-guest ratio

Fares begin around: $4,000 per person (double occupancy) for a nine-night cruise to South America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, British Isles, South America, Caribbean and Central America

Silver Ray, Silversea's second Nova-class ship, is scheduled to set sail in summer 2024. The 728-passenger, low-emissions vessel will offer the same advanced hybrid fuel technologies as its sister ship, Silver Nova. It will also have Silver Nova's horizontal layout and asymmetrical design, creating more open public areas and providing suites with 270-degree views. In addition, guests on board the luxury vessel will have their choice of eight dining venues and a wide selection of bars and lounges, including The Marquee, a new alfresco restaurant.

Viking Vela: December 2024

Top feature: Larger than Viking's other ocean vessels, carrying up to 998 passengers

Fares begin around: $4,999 per person (double occupancy) for a 12-night northern lights cruise

Sails to: Scandinavia, British Isles, Iceland

Measuring 748 feet long and 101 feet wide, Viking Vela will be the line's largest ship when it debuts at the end of 2024. It will accommodate 68 more passengers than its sister ships, but feature Viking's signature veranda staterooms, public spaces, amenities and dining venues. Seasoned Viking cruisers can look forward to favorites like The Nordic Spa, the Wintergarden, Mamsen's, the Explorers' Lounge, the Sports Deck, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and The Chef's Table.

Disney Treasure: December 2024

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Top feature: Debut of new Disney Parks-inspired onboard venues

Fares begin around: $4,028 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean, Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line's private island)

Fans of Disney Cruise Line will find many familiar venues, attractions and restaurants on the new Disney Treasure, sister ship of Disney Wish . However, there will also be plenty of new features, including the theme of the ship: adventure. The Grand Hall, inspired by the movie "Aladdin," is designed with dark shades of blue, turquoise and gold and features a golden statue of a magic carpet with Aladdin and Jasmine.

Plaza de Coco replaces Disney Wish's "Frozen" dining experience with a two-night Mexican, "Coco"-themed theatrical dinner show. Meanwhile, "Disney The Tale of Moana" – a Broadway-style production based on the film "Moana" – will be exclusive to Disney Treasure. Adults will also find new lounges, such as the Jungle Cruise-themed Skipper Society and the Periscope Pub, which is inspired by "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." Disney Treasure can carry up to 4,000 passengers.

Explore  Disney Cruise Line  deals on GoToSea.

MSC World America: Spring 2025

MSC's new futuristic ship – and sister ship to MSC World Europa – will be based in Miami and sail the Caribbean. The LNG-powered, 6,762-passenger ship will offer more than 420,000 square feet of public space and many of the attractions found on World Europa, such as the MSC Luna Park Arena and World Galleria. There will also be more than 30 dining venues, bars and lounges, as well as the line's private enclave, MSC Yacht Club.

Oceania Allura: June 2025

Oceania Allura will be the eighth ship in Oceania's fleet, the second vessel of the line's Allura class and the sister ship to Oceania Vista. The 1,200-passenger Allura will offer the same upscale amenities as Vista, as well as a new Chef's Studio and one of the highest space-to-guest and staff-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry. Allura is scheduled to debut in June 2025.

Star Princess: August 2025

Star Princess is scheduled to set sail in 2025 as the sister ship to Sun Princess. The 4,300-passenger, LNG-powered ship will offer the same features as Sun Princess, including the Dome, the Piazza and the line's Signature Collection Suites. The vessel will also have 29-plus restaurants and bars.

Star of the Seas: Summer 2025

Royal Caribbean plans to introduce Star of the Seas – the second Icon-class vessel and sister to Icon of the Seas – in summer 2025.

Disney Cruise Line: 2025

Disney purchased the former Global Dream from Genting's Dream Cruises in 2022, when it was still being built at the German shipyard MV Werften. Disney plans to base the ship in Singapore for at least five years, offering Disney vacations to the Southeast Asian market. When it launches in 2025, the vessel will be the line's seventh ship and is expected to carry 6,000 passengers. Another newly built, currently unnamed Disney ship is planned to debut in 2025, as well.

Norwegian Cruise Line: 2025 and beyond

The third Prima-class ship is expected to be approximately 10% larger than the first ship in the class, Norwegian Prima (143,535 gross tons). The following ships for the line are anticipated to be even larger, with the fifth and sixth Prima-class vessels (debuting in 2027 and 2028) weighing as much as 171,000 gross tons.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's fifth Edge-class ship will be more eco-friendly, thanks to the addition of a new tri-fueled engine model and the capacity to store three different kinds of fuel, including methanol. The effort toward net-zero emissions and more sustainable cruising is a partnership between Royal Caribbean, the French shipyard Chantiers de L'Atlantique and the technology firm Wärtsilä. A debut date for this ship has not yet been announced.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. She used her extensive experience with cruises to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

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• The Best Cruise Lines
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• The Best Gay Cruises
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Carnival Freedom's next two sailings canceled after funnel fire, second within 2 years

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the Florida-based ship's next two sailings are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

There were about 3,700 passengers onboard the ship when the fire occured. And the two upcoming sailings, which were canceled, likely would have had a similar passenger count amid the busy Spring Break season.

Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cays due to adverse weather.

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

How safe are cruise stops? Travel advisories are only one marker for destinations

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022 , a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] .