Nieuw Statendam Taps into Shore Power as Holland America Returns to Rotterdam
Holland America Line officially launched its 2025 Europe season on April 20 with a dual homeport celebration in Rotterdam. Nieuw Statendam, one of two ships based in the city this year, became the first in the fleet to connect to Rotterdam’s new shore power system. Throughout the season, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam will operate 29 […]
Cruise Passenger Misses $15,000 Cruise After the U.S. Denied Entry
A dream vacation became a nightmare for an Australian cruise passenger who was denied entry to the United States after flying to New York via Hong Kong. Upon arrival at JFK Airport, the cruise passenger en route to Florida for a $15,000 cruise vacation was stopped by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Denied Entry […]
I Took a 7-Night Alaska Cruise on Holland America — Here’s How It Went
After years of hearing that Holland America Line “does Alaska best,” I finally took a seven-night round-trip Inside Passage cruise from Vancouver aboard the ms Koningsdam. This wasn’t my first Alaska cruise, but my first time sailing the region on a Pinnacle-class ship (most of my sailings have been out of Seattle). Quick Overview Category […]
Beginner’s Guide to Carnival Cruise Line
Planning your first Carnival Cruise? If you feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, you’ve landed in the right place. As a seasoned Carnival cruiser for over twenty years, I’ve gathered everything you need to know—from choosing your ship and itinerary to understanding onboard costs, dining options, and insider tips. Quick History of Carnival Cruise […]
Cruise Line Brings Back Classic Sailaway Parties With Champagne and Music
Holland America Line is bringing back the timeless tradition of the sailaway party, enhancing it with Champagne toasts, live entertainment, and regionally inspired appetizers. In a move that blends old-world charm with modern cruise experiences, the line has partnered with French Champagne house Taittinger to elevate the moment ships depart port — a highlight on […]
Mechanical Trouble Axes Bahamas Cruise From New York
MSC Cruises has canceled the May 11, 2025, sailing of MSC Meraviglia from New York City, citing a mechanical issue that impacts the ship’s ability to operate at normal cruising speeds. The 7-night itinerary was set to visit Port Canaveral, Nassau, and the line’s private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Guests were notified on […]
Holland America Changes Tamarind Restaurant Menu Fleetwide
Holland America Line’s acclaimed Pan-Asian specialty restaurant, Tamarind, is introducing a refreshed dining experience featuring over a dozen new dishes inspired by the bold flavors of Asia. Originally launched aboard the Eurodam in 2008, Tamarind is best known for a menu that draws from Southeast Asia, China, and Japan. The updated menu includes new sharing-style […]
Cruise Port Plans Hull Cleaning Station to Remove Invasive Species From Ships
In response to the decline in cruise ship visits, the Port of Auckland is considering establishing a hull cleaning station to assist cruise lines in complying with New Zealand’s stringent biofouling regulations. This program aims to mitigate one of the primary obstacles deterring cruise ships from entering the country’s waters, particularly ecologically sensitive areas like […]
Princess Heads into 2025 Alaska Cruise Season With New Itineraries
Princess Cruises is preparing to launch its 56th Alaska season in early May. The company will offer a wide range of cruise and cruise tour options across seven ships and five wilderness lodges. Glaciers cruises between Vancouver and Whittier, Inside Passage roundtrips from Seattle and San Francisco, and various southeast Alaska cruises from Vancouver. Guests […]
Mobile Port to Get Busier in 2026 With Two Cruise Lines
The Alabama Cruise Terminal in Mobile will welcome two separate cruise lines owned by different parent companies next year. This will be the first time this has happened in 20 years, the city says. The port will simultaneously handle two ships of contrasting sizes in late March 2028. The double-ship operation will take place in late March […]
