The final show of 2020 brings the year full circle. We talk with a handful of cruisers and industry experts on the positives that came from the proverbial year from hell. 

Carnival Cruise Line's Brand Ambassador John Heald, Sheri from Cruise Tips TV, Nancy Schretter from the Family Travel Network, Matt from Royal Caribbean Blog, Cruise Radio Staff Writer Richards Simms, Cruise Writer Ashley Kosciolek, and Cruise Radio Listener Dr. Kris all drop by to share their thoughts of 2020.   

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We talk about seven of the hottest ships debuting in 2020. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras was officially delivered 
• Royal Caribbean sells two cruise ships 
• Royal Caribbean gives $40 million in loans to travel agents 
• The bitcoin cruise ship is headed to the scrapyard 
• Costa Cruises debuts a new cruise ship 

Listener Question: Should we park at the port or an offsite lot? 

Norwegian Cruise Line Holding's CEO Frank Del Rio has been tossing the idea of all cruise guests receiving an immunity passport. Basically, you would have to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to cruise. Is that legal? Are cruise lines allowed to do that? We discuss. 

Sherry Laskin has cruise news: 

• Carnival Panorama is headed back to North America 
• Virgin Voyages delays both new ships into 2021 
• NCL looking to make guests get a vaccine to cruise 
• You can lease a cruise cabin by the day, week or month
• Princess Cruises gives a money-back guarantee  

Listener Question: What can we do in Port Canaveral for four days? 

What is the status of Holland America Line's return to service? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

A seven-night review of Norwegian Epic from San Juan, Puerto Rico that was taken in early 2020. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

Listener Question: Should we take the future cruise credit or the full refund for our canceled cruise? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Most of us just accept the cruise contract and go on with our cruise vacation. But did you know there are some items buried in the ticket contract, otherwise known as the Contract of Carriage? We break down nine surprises you may find hidden in your long cruise ticket contract. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

Listener Question: We are a family of five and are all booked in the same cabin for late 2021. How involved is it to get our kids their own stateroom? - Lori, SD 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

A review of Norwegian Jade. This was not your average Norwegian Cruise Line sailing. The annual Star Trek cruise went to where no man has gone before. We get a comprehensive review of the cruise ship, the theme cruise, and the ports of call this ship went.

Sherry has cruise news: 

Listener Question: Is there any benefit of a solo cabin on NCL if it’s almost the same price as a regular cabin?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

A seven-night review of Carnival Panorama. As of 2020, this is the newest Vista-class cruise ship for Carnival Cruise Line. The seven-night Mexican Riveria cruises sailed from Long Beach, California. We get a detailed review from embarkation, the sailing experience, to the ports of call that were visited. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

Listener Question: Why won't it let me use onboard credit before my cruise? I'm trying to purchase the drink package before my sailing.

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

A review of Celebrity Equinox for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise. This was the last sailing the Equinox did before the shutdown. We get a review of the ship, the onboard experience, and what it was like sailing on the last voyage before the shutdown. 

Richard has cruise news: 

Listener Question: What can you tell us about Carnival's shore excursion best price guarantee? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

A 2020 review of Norwegian Breakaway to the Eastern Caribbean. This was a seven-night honeymoon cruise was from PortMiami. On top of it being the start of a new life, this was the husband's first time ever on a cruise ship. We get a comprehensive review of the ports of call, the dining, entertainment, and the overall cruise experience. 

Richard has cruise news: 

• Cruise lines are now part of the 2020 cancel culture 
• The no-sail order has expired, but now we have a conditional sail order in its place 
• A new medical testing laboratory is on a Viking Ocean cruise ship 
• Upgrades have been spotted at Port Everglades during the shutdown 
• The Bahamas now requires a special health travel visa to visit 

Listener Question: Our Bahamas cruise was canceled for December, can we still fly to Nassau, Bahamas? - April

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control announced on Friday that they would be lifting the no sail order on October 31. Cruise industry analyst Stewart Chiron stops by to break down what happens next and how long will it be until cruise ships will actually sail again in North America? 

Date: November 1, 2020

A five-night cruise out of Miami on Disney Cruise Line's Disney Magic. The cruise went out of PortMiami to the Bahamas. We get a comprehensive review of the ship and what Marvel at Sea days are like. This was the very last cruise for Disney before the cruise industry shutdown in the United States. 

Richard has cruise news on:

• Carnival Cruise Line also extended cancellations through November 2020 
• Mardi Gras completes sea trials in the Baltic Sea 
• Celebrity Apex arrives the Bahamas and readies for cruises 
• Another cruise ship debuted for the UK 
• Florida mayor reaffirms commitment to the cruise industry's restart 
• A cryptocurrency cruise ship could be coming soon 

Listener Question:  I have a Norwegian Cruise Line Cruise Next certificate, but it's about to expire. What should I do?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Take a luxury cruise to the Baltic this week aboard Silversea Cruises' Silver Spirit. This was an 11-night Baltic Cruise. 

Richard has cruise news on:

• The CDC extends no sail order
• More Caribbean cruise cancellations 
• Mandatory testing for all cruise passengers and crew 
• New cruise ship heading for North America 
• Cruise ship captain smacks down an internet troll 

Listener Question: When will we see a more detailed view of what the new health protocols will look like by individual companies?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

This is a seven-night review of Celebrity Summit from San Juan to the Eastern Caribbean. The cruise was expected to sail round trip from Puerto Rico but due to COVID-19, authorities did not let the ship back into San Juan. Instead, the cruise ended in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This seven-night cruise turned into a nine-night. 

Richard Simms has cruise news: 

• CDC and the cruise ship ban
• False Alarm on a European ship that resumed service last month. 
• Virgin Voyages pushed their return day back. 
• Carnival Mardi Gras is one step closer to Florida
• Princess Cruises takes delivery of its newest ship. 

Question: Is it true that you have to pay more for drinks while the ship is docked in port vs out to sea?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Glenn Aprile is a member of the design team for Carnival Cruise Line's upcoming Mardi Gras. Recently they just developed a new atrium concept for the Grand Central zone of the ship. Glenn talks about the design concept and why certain changes were made. 

Date: September 27, 2020 

A 7-night review of MSC Seaside. This cruise went to San Juan, St. Maarten, and Nassau, Bahamas. We get a comprehensive review of the ship and the Eastern Caribbean ports of call. 

Richard Simms has cruise news: 

• Return to cruising plans have been submitted to the CDC 
• Carnival Cruise Line debuts a new atrium for Mardi Gras 
• One of the founders of Norwegian Cruise Line passes 
• Princess Cruises is selling ships 
• Virgin Voyages announced longer itineraries 

Question: How likely is it that cruises will only go to private islands and the Bahamas for the foreseeable future? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We get behind the scenes look of a cruise terminal and find out what happens on embarkation day, how luggage gets sorted, and what really makes tempers flare at boarding. 

Date: September 20, 2020

A 2020 review of Norwegian Sky. This was a four-night cruise out of PortMiami that went to Nassau, Bahamas, and a scheduled stop at Great Stirrup Cay (which unfortunately was missed because of weather). 

A new entertainment option was rolled out this week involving cruise directors, we talk with the creators. 

Richard Simms has cruise news: 

• A handful of ships won't be returning until early 2021
• Royal Caribbean says Australian and New Zeland are done until next year 
• Carnival Corporation said they are selling more ships 
• A small Alaskan cruise destination has been nominated for Seatrade Cruise Awards 
• A cruise ship delay for Disney Cruise Line

Question: Do you think cruise lines will make a big push to add a lot of smart technology in order to eliminate "touchpoints" in staterooms and throughout their ships?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Staff writer Richard Simms talks to us about the meeting that PortMiami had about the state of cruising, Carnival Cruise Line ships returning to service in November, and Norwegian Cruise Line delaying a cruise update. Matt Hochberg from Royal Caribbean Blog answers questions on how Royal Caribbean has changed its app to facilitate the future of cruising and brand loyalty programs. 

Date: September 13, 2020

A Celebrity Edge review from March 2020. This was the last cruise before the cruise industry shutdown. Ashley gives a comprehensive review of Celebrity's newest cruise ship and what the onboard experience was like. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Carnival's Brand Ambassador said they could be returning to sea sooner than people think
• It's back to sea for one Carnival Corporation line
• Royal Caribbean CEO weighs in on returning to service
• Ghostship tours are a thing in the UK 
• One cruise line settles lawsuit with crew members 

Question: Is it a good idea to sail on the first cruise post-dry dock? I’ve heard there could be plumbing issues and them still trying to put things together while the first sailing is going on.

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Want daily cruise news? Subscribe to the Cruise Radio News podcast feed. 

Get in-depth cruise news and industry insight at www.cruiseradio.net.

A seven-night Western Caribbean review of Norwegian Cruise Line's ship Norwegian Escape. The vessel was launched in 2015 and offers Caribbean service from the east coast. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Popular Carnival Cruise Director announces retirement
• Another Carnival ship steams towards the scrapyard 
• Carnival Corp CEO optimistic about North American cruising
• The Pandemic is not slowing down cruise projects at port Miami
• Another cruise line is signing on for rapid testing 

Question: Where do you see cruises prices headed with supply and demand? It seems like starting out there will be fewer itineraries available. 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Want daily cruise news? Subscribe to the Cruise Radio News podcast feed. 

Get in-depth cruise news and industry insight at www.cruiseradio.net.

Steve is the host of the DCL Podcast, a show all about Disney Cruise Line. This week he answers our questions about sailing on Disney, Castaway Cay, dining onboard, sailing without kids, and a whole lot of other questions. 

Date: August 30, 2020

A review of Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas. This was a nine-night cruise from Australia.

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Cruise port could remain closed until 2022
• Two Carnival Corp ships find a new home
• Carnival releases name of the upcoming ship 
• Former Carnival ship awaits fate
• Good news from MSC but also a delay  

Question: Is it okay to tip at the begging and the end of the cruise?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Nancy Schretter returns this week from the Family Travel Network to answer some questions about cruising to Cozumel with small children, how to deal with food allergies on a cruise ship, and keeping your child safe in a balcony. Tommy Casabona stops by to give details about sailing from Fort Lauderdale with factoring in a little bit of pre-cruise fun. Sherr from CruiseTipsTV answers a question about the Yacht Club experience on MSC Cruises. 

Date: August 29, 2020

Since MSC Cruises returned to cruising this past week, it's only appropriate to get a review of the MSC Meraviglia. Sheri and her family had an opportunity to sail the Yacht Club (ship within a ship concept) in the Mediterranean. We get a full review of one of MSC Cruises' newest ships. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Cruises are officially underway in Europe and a couple was kicked off the ship 
• Cruise line cleared of health incident 
• Carnival Corp compromised by hackers 
• Grand Cayman tells cruise ships no 
• Carnival Corp gives a financial update 

Listener Q:  We are in the early planning stages of our 2022 summer cruise. We are older and do not like crowds and crazy traffic. What is easier to navigate - Port Canaveral or Fort Lauderdale? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

In our series of exploring personalities within the cruise space, we speak with Bill Panoff. Bill started his career aboard a Carnival Cruise Line ship where he worked at sea for 13 years and then went launched Porthole Cruise Magazine, the largest cruise magazine in the world. 

• Porthole Cruise Magazine Digital: https://bit.ly/3atTJ9I
• Cruise Control Video Series: https://bit.ly/3kQuXFk 

Date: August 16, 2020

Nancy Schretter from the Family Travel Network joins us to talk about her seven-night Mediterranean cruise on Crystal Cruises' Crystal Serenity. Crystal Cruises recently announced that they will not welcome guests back until 2021. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Another round of cruise cancellations 
• Crew members file a lawsuit against the cruise company 
• Norwegian Cruise Line puts rumors to bed 
• Recapping Royal Caribbean Group's Q2 earnings call
• Med cruises were given the green flag for August 15

Listener Q: What is the difference between a Bahamas and a Bermuda cruise?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We tackle your listener questions this week. Sherry Laskin joins us to break down using onboard credits on multiple sailings and the best way to remove canceled guests from a cruise.  Barbara lets us know the main differences between the cruise line vacation planner and a travel agent. Richard talks about cruise embarkation out of New York City. 

Date: August 9, 2020 

Over a dozen cruise ships have been sold off throughout the cruise industry shutdown, with more likely to come. But what happens to cruise ships once they are sold? What do they do with the equipment? How long does the deconstruction process take? Maritime historian and journalist Peter Knego drops in to answer our questions. 

Peter also shares details about his collection of relics he's salvaged from the doomed ocean liners and some of his thoughts on modern-day cruising. 

Last Look: Carnival Fantasy Remembered: https://cruiseradio.net/last-look-remembering-carnival-fantasy/

MidShipCentury.com: https://www.midshipcentury.com/

The Sands of Alang documentary: https://www.midshipcentury.com/the-sands-of-alang

Date: August 2, 2020 

A 2020 review of Norwegian Cruise Lines Norwegian Gem. this was a 10-night cruise from New York City that went to the Southern Caribbean. 

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have published 28 questions to the general public. We read the questions and tell you how you can respond with your answers. 

You may submit comments, identified by Docket No. CDC-2020-0087 by any of the following methods listed below. CDC does not accept comments by email.

• Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
• Mail: Maritime Unit, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road NE, MS V18-2, Atlanta, GA 30329.

Date: July 25, 2020

PJ shares his experience of being on the last Disney Cruise Line ship before the industry shutdown. This is a seven-night review of Disney Fantasy that went down to the Eastern Caribbean with a stop at private island Castaway Cay.  

Sherry has cruise news: 

• CDC extending the No Sail Order, again 
• Carnival is almost done with crew repatriation 
• Grand Bahama Island on two-week lockdown
• Carnival Inspiration heads to the scrapyard 
• Two former Holland America ships find a new home 
• Update on two new cruise ships 

Listener Q: Can I transfer my future cruise credit and onboard credit to a travel agent — if so, what are the steps? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Cruise expert Stewart Chiron drops by the answer some listener questions. Matt Hochberg from Royal Caribbean Blog answer questions on Royal Caribbeans "Lift and Shift" program and the difference between a Quantum and Quantum Ultra class ship. 

1. When a ship is said to be 130,000-tons, what does that mean? 

A review of Carnival Cruise Line's ship Carnival Sunrise for a Canada/New England itinerary. This ship used to be Carnival Triumph before it underwent a $200 million renovation in 2019. The ship splits time between New York, Virginia, and Florida. 

Sherry Laskin has cruise news on: 

• This could be the end for Carnival Fantasy
• Key West looking to ban large cruise ships 
• Florida based cruise line extends cruise suspension 
• Carnival CEO shares optimism in an earnings call 
• The caribbean island makes masks mandatory for visitors 

Listener Question: What do all the added taxes and fees go to when you buy a cruise? Sometimes they are 25% of the cruise fare. - Steve

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We talk to the granddaughter of the architect of the SS United States. At one time, this ship broke the speed record and went across the Atlantic Ocean in three days. 

Date: July 12, 2020 

Aside from wearing masks on a cruise ship, buffets at sea have been another hot button topic. Royal Caribbean first said they would not have one, and then backpedaled. Norwegian Cruise Line had a computer glitch that issued everyone extra loyalty points - will they honor or take away? Staff writer Richard Simms weighs in on both topics. 

Date: July 5, 2020

A preview of what casinos at sea may look like after sailing a five-hour gambling trip. A look at what we saw with protocols and safety procedures. 

Sherry Laskin has cruise news: 

• Carnival Corporation sells off a cruise ship during the shutdown
• Cruise ships head to the West Coast of North America
• MSC Cruises starts construction on a new class of ship 
• An Asian cruise line will be the first major cruise line to resume sailing 
• Norwegian Cruise Line cancels the remainder of Alaska 2020 sailings 
• Carnival Cruise Line rescues a distressed vessel 

Listener Question: The map shows three cruise docks in Cozumel, how will I know where Carnival Vista is going to dock. - Kayla 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We answer your listener questions on this weekend's episode of Cruise Radio Rewind. What is the best way to get from San Pedro cruise port to Los Angelos airport? Is an overnight stay on the Queen Mary in Long Beach, California worth it? Where can we find an affordable hotel somewhere near Port Canaveral? If the cruise line books my air, does it protect me if my flight is delayed? 

Date: June 28, 2020 

A review of Carnival Conquest on a seven-night cruise from Port Miami. This sailing went to the Eastern Caribbean with stops in Amber Cove, Grand Turk, San Juan, and St. Thomas. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• More cruise lines announced cancellations 
• Nassau, Bahamas could get strict on cruise passengers 
• Rapid covid testing could be coming to a cruise line near you
• Carnival Corporation announced the sale of six cruise ships 
• Another cruise line is bringing two ships to Port Canaveral

Listener Question: What are the top three things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska? We are in our early 30s and very active. - Ellie

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Masks, social distancing, modified or no buffets, elevators, casinos, there are a lot of potential deal-breakers when it comes to cruising as the industry ramps up again. Cruise Radio Staff Writer Richard Simms and Host of the Always Be Booked Podcast, Tommy Casabona weighs in. 

Date: June 21, 2020

A Panama Canal cruise review aboard Princess Cruises' Caribbean Princess. This was a roundtrip voyage from Port Everglades. Mary first sailed Caribbean Princess back in 2005, she compares and contrasts the vessels over the past 15 years. 

Sherry Laskin has cruise news: 

• Norwegian Cruise Line cancels additional sailings
• Bankrupt cruise ship goes to auction 
• Carnival Cruise Line crew member head home
• CDC implements a color system for cruise ships 
• The second Virgin Voyages ship is floated out

Listener Q: On a cruise ship, would a medical plastic face shield that flips up and stays in place (only for eating) be better and more comfortable than a face or cloth mask? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We get a detailed review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Joy. Joy was first launched for the Asian market, in 2018, the cruise line announced that the ship would move from Asia to North America. The first North American cruise season, the ship sailed Alaska and then the Mexican Riveria. 

Date: June 14, 2020

A 2020 review of MSC Grandiosa. This was a Mediterranean cruise that was cheaper than a lot of his other vacation options. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Royal Caribbean announces delays and cancellations 
• Good news for 3,000 Carnival Cruise Line crew members
• A cruise line will be sailing from Port Canaveral for the first time 
• Norwegian Cruise Line talks masks, buffets, and muster drills 
• You must test negative for COVID-19 to come to Alaska

Listener Q: What is the best way to go about seeing how booked a cruise is before we sail?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We discuss picking and booking a cruise ship stateroom. Every person has a different strategy when it comes to booking a stateroom. Cruise Radio Staff Writer Richard Simms and Always Be Booked Podcast Host Tommy Casabona weigh in on the cruise ship cabins. 

We get a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Star. This was a seven-night cruise that sailed round trip from Venice. 

Richard has cruise news:

• Norwegian's return-to-cruising health details 
• Canada extending its cruise ship ban 
• Carnival Cruise Line doubling down on thermal imaging cameras
• River cruising is back 
• So is ocean cruising in Asia 

Listener Question: Hardcore Royal Caribbean cruise and tinkering with the idea of sailing Norwegian Cruise Line. With Norwegian doing the five free perks with any booking, is that a good deal? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Where is my cruise refund? That is a question that is being asked by thousands of people. Are the cruise lines really doing the best they can or are they holding on to your money until the last minute possible? After all, the Fair Credit Bill Act The FCBA has set strict guidelines for creditors to follow that protect consumers. 

Date: May 31, 2020

A back-to-back review of Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas. This was a three and four-night cruise that went to Nassau, Bahamas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay. We learn about the recent Mariner refurbishments and what it's like sailing two cruises in a row. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Australia extending their cruise ship ban
• Royal Caribbean backtracks on no buffets. 
• Royal Caribbean gave us a financial update 
• We start starting to see where the first cruise ships may sail from 
• Virgin Voyages has delayed their inaugural cruise - again 

Listener Q:

Cruise Director Kabir returns this week to discuss your questions about life at sea. Some of the questions he tackles is what a cruise director's day is like, is there a hookup culture onboard the ship, social distancing, and speculation on what it could be like as we resume cruising. 

Date: May 24, 2020 

We get a review of Holland America's Zuiderdam. This was a seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing. This cruise went to Grand Turk, San Juan, and the private island Half Moon Cay. 

Sherry has cruise news:

• The Bahamas could welcome cruisers back as early as July 
• Massive layoffs across multiple cruise lines 
• Disney Cruise Line has extended its cancellation
• Carnival Breeze made it to Southampton to disembark crew
• Norwegian Cruise Line has extended their Peace of Mind policy

Listener Question: What itinerary has the best beaches for relaxing? We are looking into sailing Mardi Gras in 2021. I have to choose between Costa Maya, Roatan, and Cozumel or San Juan, Grand Turk, Amber Cove. - Sandy

Royal Caribbean hinted this week that they could be getting rid of its cruise ship buffets once they start sailing again.

The cruise industry is going through a financial nightmare right now. They are all in a zero revenue environment. Norwegian Cruise Line recently had its first-quarter earnings call late last week, we break down the findings. 

Date: May 17, 2020

We talk to a cruise director who was onboard a cruise ship during the COVID outbreak. Our guest chats with us what it was like being onboard when the cruise industry shutdown and how he had pivot as they attempted to get cruisers home. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Grand Cayman isn't ready to take back cruise ships 
• Marine firm launches a project to keep ships clean
• A video could show the future of cruising 
• Norway-based cruise company will return to service in June
• Norwegian Cruise Line opens sailings through 2023 

Listener Question: How early can I drop by bag off at the Long Beach Cruise Terminal? 

Hear Cruise Director Kabir's podcast here. 

Cruise lines are doing a phased-in approach when it comes to return-to-service. In this episode, we discuss how the landscape and policies are changing with the post-COVID. We answer some listener questions on what to look for when buying a policy and how to rebook your policy if your vacation got canceled.

Find more information about travel insurance policies here.

Date: May 10, 2020

We get a review of Carnival Inspiration. This was a short four-night cruise out of Long Beach, California to Ensenada and Catalina Island with only one sea day. Carnival Cruise Line sails two Fantasy-class ships out of Los Angeles, Carnival Inspiration and Carnival Imagination. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Carnival is shooting for a new return-to-service 
• An investigation has been launched into Carnival Corporation
• Royal Caribbean and Celebrity are doing what it takes to get the crew members home. 
• Two cruise terminals are delayed over uncertainty. 
• Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings had some good news by mid-week

Listener Question: We are debating on taking Queen Mary from New York to Southampton. Can we survive by eating in the pub and buffet only wearing shorts on board -- or will we go hungry? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

This is a 58-night cruise aboard Princess Cruises Island Princess (sister ship to the Coral Princess). This ship was launched back in 2003 and is one of the cruise line's smaller ships. 

An interesting angle with this sailing is that COVID-19 events were happening around the world. So they were experiencing in real-time what changes were being made as the globe was continuously learning about coronavirus. 

Date: May 3, 2020

A review of a seven-night cruise on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas from San Juan, Puerto Rico. This cruise went down to the Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Carnival sends 10,000 crew members home
• Disney Cruise Line extends its cancellation
• How Norwegian Cruise Line is weathering the financial storm 
• The new Cruise Terminal 3 in Port Canaveral is close to opening 
• Ship designers are pivoting when it comes to future cruise concepts

Listener Question: If I reach platinum status on day three of my cruise, when will I get the perks? 

Staff writer Richard Simms joins us to talk about the details of Norwegian Cruise Line's extension of their suspension of cruises. A company has an idea of putting mobile ICU units in cruise ports across the Caribbean. Norwegian Holdings and Royal Caribbean bolster liquidity. 

Listener Question:

• Should we use a travel agent? 
• What is the status of Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras inaugural season?

Date: April 26, 2020

We get a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Jewel. Part of the Jewel-class of vessels, the ship carries 2400 guests and 93,500-tons. This was a cruise down under, leaving from Sydney to Auckland. We get all the details of the cruise, itinerary, and how to approach this bucket list trip. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• The White House tapped travel execs to help open the county for tourism
• CDC gave guidance on what cruise lines need to do in order to sail again
• Carnival Cruise ships take on a new mission
• Royal Caribbean has extended its cancellations
• Could a part of NCLH be for sale?

Listener Question: What advantages does an aft balcony have over a normal balcony, aside from the obvious?

We are answering your questions this week, covering everything from cruise price drops, casino offers, drink packages, to how to use onboard credit. 

Special guests this weekend: 

• Sherry Laskin, CruiseMaven.com 
• Matt Hochberg, Royal Caribbean Blog 
• Becky Smith, Becky's Travel Biz

Date: April 19, 2020 

We get a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise review from a family who sailed aboard Carnival Vista. The sailing was from Galveston, Texas and went to Mahogany Bay, Belize City, and Cozumel. Here how Carnival Vista compares to a most recent sailing on Carnival Horizon. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Carnival Cruise Line extends its pause in operations 
• Norwegian Cruise Line is downsizing a Free at Sea perk 
• CDC extends No Sail Order for cruise ships for 100-days 
• Royal Caribbean founder passes away 
• One cruise line has detailed their new sanitation policies and procedures

Listener Question: I'm getting a divorce and getting my name back to my maiden name ASAP!! I booked the cruise under my married name last year.  What is involved in changing the name with the cruise line from married to maiden? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Already we are getting a glimpse of how differently cruising will be moving forward.

Staff writer Richard Simms discuses how cruising will change once the cruise industry starts back up again and we move past COVID-19.

Date: April 13, 2020

Cruise industry analyst Stewart Chiron joins us to talk about the Centers for Disease Control's decision. We discuss the financial status and how the cruise lines are raising money to keep them afloat until the return to business. 

We also discuss where the cruise ships will go when they start sailing again. 

Date: April 12, 2020

Disney Fantasy first entered service in 2012. We get a detailed review of a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise aboard the vessel. This ports of calls on this cruises we St. Thomas, Tortola, and Disney's private island Castaway Cay. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Carnival successfully raised funds to help weather the financial storm
• CDC released new guidelines if your cruise ship is caught in a COVID-19 outbreak
• Both Holland America's ships and Coral Princess successfully made it back to Florida 
• Three ships were ordered by the state to leave the port
• Cruise lines are having virtual events to help pass the time until we can cruise again

We have a chance to talk with maritime historian, journalist, and filmmaker Peter Knego. Peter shares the experience of going to the cruise ship graveyard in Alang, India, where cruise ships are cut up and sold for scrap metal. We also get details of what it's like being one of the last people on board the ship before it disappears forever. 

Peter also shares details about his collection of relics he's salvaged from the doomed ocean liners and some of his thoughts on modern-day cruising. 

MidShipCentury.com: https://www.midshipcentury.com/

The Sands of Alang documentary: https://www.midshipcentury.com/the-sands-of-alang

Date: April 5, 2020 

We get a review of Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. This cruise left Miami, Florida and went to the Bahamas. 

Sherry Laskin has cruise news on: 

• More cruise lines extending their suspension
• Carnival Cruise Line cancels sailings into the summer 
• Celebrity Cruises launched a new ship in a unique way 
• The first ship to act as a hospital has arrived in New York City
• We learn how much it costs to keep Carnival Corporation's ship afloat while they are laid up 

We could all use a break right now, so we try something a little different.

I want you to imagine your dream cruise ship.

What would it be like? Where would you sail? What dining venues would it have? What would your stateroom be like? Remember, this is your dream cruise vacation so nothing is off-limits. 

Tommy Casabona takes us through his mind and talks to us about a dream cruise he just returned from. The cruise went to San Juan, St. Thomas and Aruba. 

Remember, this cruise really did not happen. We are only having fun here. 

Date: March 29, 2020 

This is a 2020 review of Carnival Magic. This is a Carnival Cruise Line Dream-class ship that is currently sailing out of Port Everglades. The ports of call were Nassau, Bahamas; Grand Turk, and Amber Cove. 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Sheri from Cruise Tips TV stops by to discuss ways to pass the time until our next cruise. 

Sherry Laskin has cruise news on: 

• Royal Caribbean's new start-up date
• Seattle pausing 2020 cruises 
• Carnival Radiance delayed 
• Cruise line financial sustainability 

Listener questions: 

• What is the Jones Act? 
• What should I bring to kill germs on my cruise?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Cruise industry analyst Stewart Chiron weighs in on cruise ships being used as floating hospitals. Travel industry bailouts - should cruise lines be involved? How could the industry shut down impact future cruise ship launches and christenings? How vital are travel agents when it comes to kickstarting the cruise industry again. And will they ever homeport more than one ship in Jacksonville, Florida. 

Date: March 22, 2020

We talk to a cruise passenger who was the last ship to sail after the announcement was made that the cruise industry was taking a voluntarily 30-day suspension.  

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• San Juan turning away cruise ships 
• A Norwegian Cruise Line ship finally finds a home 
• Cruise ship moves from Alaska to Mexico

Listener Questions: 

1. Do we take the refund or the future cruise credit? 
2. Where are all the ships going during the shutdown?

We have more follow-up questions from our segment with Dan Skilken from TripInsurance.com. 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Cruise industry analyst Stewart Chiron joins us to talk about the current state of the cruise industry, their financial outlook, and how long it could take to rebound once the industry reopens. 

Dan Skilken of TripInsurance joins us to answer listener questions about cancellations over coronavirus (COVID-19).

Date: March 15, 2020 

A review of Norwegian Joy in Alaska. This was a round-trip cruise from Seattle, Washington. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• The State Department's latest travel advisory 
• Cruise lines relaxing their cancelation policies
• Carnival skips Grand Turk this week  
• Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady arrives in PortMiami 
• Royal Caribbean and Celebrity offer first responder cruises 

Listener question: We're sailing Royal Caribbean for the first time and receiving onboard credit. Is there anything that I can not use the onboard credit for? - Mark 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Cruise Industry Analyst Stewart Chiron joins us once again to answer a listener question about how cruise lines protect themselves against financial risk. Staff writer Richard Simms gives us five reasons why this might be the perfect time to buy cruise line stocks. 

Date: March 8, 2020

A review of Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas. 

Richard has cruise news on: 

• Carnival Cruise Line skipping some Western Caribbean ports of call
• Royal Caribbean’s CEO declaring coronavirus sucks
• A cruise line’s data being hacked
• Daily gratuities being raised on a cruise line yet again
• Virgin Voyages canceling their New York City stop

Listener Question: What is my Carnival Cruise Line stock shareholder benefit on a seven-night cruise?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

On this week's rewind, we bring on a meteorologist to discuss the different types of sea fog and why the Caribbean is so windy this winter. Cruise industry analyst discusses the dip in cruise line stocks over the past week, coronavirus hysteria in the Caribbean, and the outcome of the two Carnival Corporation ships in Asia. 

Date: March 2, 2020

We get a review of Azamara Club Cruises' ship Azamara Journey. This was a 17-night Panama Canal sailing. We discuss the ship, onboard features, and the ports of call. 

Rob from CruisingExcursions.com answers your listener shore excursion questions. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Carnival Magic heading to Norfolk
• Carnival Elation experiencing technical issues
• Scarlet Lady heading to New York City 
• Princess Cruise ship fails its health inspection 
• Cruise ship comedian breaks quarantine and flies home

Listener Question: Transportation options in Vancouver, Canada for our Alaska cruise? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

 We tackle your listener questions on this week's episode.

• What is the difference in food between Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean in the buffet and main dining rooms?
• How does Carnival's Players Club and Royal Caribbean's casino program stack up against each other? 
• We have a late flight leaving New York City and looking for suggestions on how to spend the day in Manhattan and the best option to getting to Newark on a budget. 

Send your questions to doug@cruiseradio.net.  

Date: February 23, 2020

We get a review of Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Equinox. This was a seven-night cruise down to the Eastern Caribbean from Port Everglades. This cruise went to San Juan, St. Thomas, Tortola, and Nassau. Sarah gives us a bow to stern to review of the ship and the ports. 

Sherry Laskin has cruise news on: 

• Holland America guest getting coronavirus 
• Princess Cruise guests start heading home and redeploy Sapphire Princess 
• Scarlet Lady was delivered to Virgin Voyages 
• Norwegian Cruise Line ship gets $100 million refurbishment 
• Royal Caribbean starts on new development in the Caribbean

Listener Question: What is a family-friendly safe activity we could do in Cozumel, Mexico? 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We answer your listener questions about bidding for an upgrade on Norwegian Cruise Line. Details on cruise line apps. Is it really cheaper to book a cruise as a group? What to do in Antigua. And a suggestion for Naples, Italy. 

Email your questions to doug@cruiseradio.net. 

Date: February 16, 2020

We get a review of Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas. This was an eight-night cruise to their private destination Labadee, San Juan, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. We get details about the ship and ports of call on this Eastern Caribbean cruise. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• A cruise was cut short of an outbreak that wasn't coronavirus related
• A port finally accepted the displaced Holland America ship
• Royal Caribbean ship has coronavirus scare
• Carnival Cruise Line has started showcasing Mardi Gras 
• There's a Disney Cruise Line ship at a new homeport 

Listener Question: Looking for a non-crowded family-friendly beach club in Cozumel. 

Heather gives us a review of Carnival Victory. This was a four-night cruise to Half Moon Cay and Nassau, Bahamas. In Spring 2020, Carnival Victory will head to Cadez, Spain for a massive makeover to become Carnival Radiance. 

We get the details on Carnival Cruise Line food, service, the overall experience. 

Orlando Ashford, President of Holland America Line stops by to talk about the Culinary Council, the changes at Holland America over the past few years, and some insight into the renovations at Half Moon Cay. 

Date: February 9, 2020

Coronavirus is all over the news where both travel and cruising are concerned. This week we talk week with cruise industry analyst Stewart Chiron about the impacts on the industry and how cruise lines are being proactive. 

Travel insurance could play a factor in the coronavirus cancellations and delays. We answer some of the dozens of emails we relieved about this outbreak. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• A Princess Cruise ship was impacted with the deadly coronavirus 
• Carnival announces new officers for Carnival Radiance 
• Carnival adds another transatlantic voyage in 2021
• Disney Cruise Line launches a website detailing their new destination 
• Holland America Line brings on a new chef 
• Royal Caribbean opened a new section at Perfect Day at Cococay

Listener Q: Is Royal Caribbean's The Key program worth it? - Julie from Layton, Utah 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We recently had a chance to check out MSC Cruises brand new Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This is MSC's new private destination in the Bahamas that was developed exclusively for MSC Cruise guests. We speak with the General Manager of the island and MSC Cruises COO Ken Muskat. And staff writer Richard Simms asks some questions about the new private island. 

Date: February 2, 2020

Chris gives us a review of Norwegian Crusie Line's brand new Norwegian Encore. This was a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Carnival Mardi Gras floated out of dry dock 
• Cruise ships are canceling voyages because of coronavirus
• There's a lawsuit against a major cruise line 
• A new cruise port has opened in Jamaica 
• A man goes overboard on Oasis of the Seas

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Carnival Horizon review to the Western Caribbean. Hear this detailed ship review that involves a submarine excursion in Cozumel. 

Sherry has cruise news on:

• Carnival Mardi Gras is closer to float out 
• A cruise line is starting service in the Great Lakes
• Celebrity Apex now has a godmother 
• Princess Cruises returns to Kangaroo Island after the wildfires 
• The ultimate retirement cruise 

Listener Question: Best place to go ship spotting in Port Canaveral? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

An Alaska review of Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas. This was a seven-night cruise and it happened to be the very last voyage of the 2019 Alaska cruise season. 

Date: January 19, 2020

We tackle your question. Parking at PortMiami versus an offsite lot. How strict is Carnival Cruise Line when it comes to their cancelation policy? How to get around Bermuda when there for three days. And what is the best time to embark the ship on cruise day? 

Date: January 12, 2020

A review of Royal Caribbean's Miami-based Symphony of the Seas. This was a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. Get this very detailed review from this first-time Royal Caribbean cruise passenger. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Pricing glitched caused ultra-low cruise fares
• Norwegian Cruise Line ditches water bottles
• Cruise ship stuck in Caribbean port
• Norwegian raises room service
• January 2020 cruise ship dry dock schedule

Listener Q: How can we see the donkeys on Grand Turk? 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We tackle your listener questions on this week's show.

• What is there to do in St. Thomas for first-time cruisers?
• How do we get from West Palm Beach to Port Miami?
• What are the major differences between Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Gem?
• Breaking down the Norwegian Cruise Line dining program

Date: January 5, 2019

A review of MSC Meraviglia. This is one of MSC Cruises Meraviglia-class ships that is now sailing seasonally from Port Miami. Hear how this stacks up against other cruise ships sailing from Miami and what it's really like. 

Richard has cruise news on: 

• Another cruise line raises gratuities
• Celebrity Cruises is dropping a surcharge
• A man went overboard on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship 
• Princess launched what they are calling their "best sale ever" - is it a good deal? 
• MSC cruise ship hits the dock in Italy

Listener Question: What happens if we don't use up all our onboard credit on Harmony of the Seas?