A review of a seven-night Greek Isles cruise on Norwegian Viva. Norwegian Cruise Line's second ship in its highly successful Prima-class.  Ben gives us a detailed bow to stern review. 

Scott gives us a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's first Prima-class ship, Norwegian Prima. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. 

A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's ship Norwegian Escape. 

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Ben shares his cruise on Norwegian Bliss to Southeast Alaska from Seattle, Alaska. 

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A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Pearl on a 10 night Mediterranean cruise from Venice to Rome. 

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Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news.

Frank just returned from a Mediterranean cruise aboard Norwegian Escape. He talks about the ship, the ports, and his overall thoughts about the cruise. 

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A review of the Norwegian Jewel in Alaska. The cruise went from Vancouver, British Columbia to Seward, Alaska (the port city for Anchorage). Amy provides a comprehensive review of the seven-night one-way cruise she and her husband experienced.

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The latest cruise industry news includes Carnival Cruise Line absorbing P&O Cruises Australia, the Villa Vie Odyssey world cruise facing a third delay this week, an Alaska cruise port is set to limit cruise passengers in 2026, refunding a Carnival cruise, and the story of a teen who left his parents on a Caribbean island because they wouldn't stop shopping.

We also cover the major renovation of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Joy in early 2024. Joining us is Chris Gray Faust, Executive Editor of CruiseCritic.com, who shares her insights from her recent Bermuda cruise on the newly refurbished NCL Joy. 

Chris discusses her experience and highlights the new features, including a revamped thermal suite, an expanded Vibe Beach Club, new cabins in the Observation Lounge, and solo staterooms.

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A Southern Caribbean review of Norwegian Viva from San Juan, Puero Rico. 

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A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's latest ships Norwgeian Viva on a 10-night cruise. 

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A seven night review of Norwegian Joy during Thanksgiving in 2023. 

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A review of Norwegian Cruise Line, Norwegian Escape.

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A seven-night review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Sky to the Caribbean. Staff writer Richard Simms has this week's cruise news. 

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A review of Norweigan Cruise Line's Norwegian Sky . Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. 

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A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's 2013-launched Norwegian Breakaway. Staff writer Richard Simms had cruise news.

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Today's episode features a review of a Norwegian Escape cruise in the Mediterranean by a Madison, as well as cruise news segments by staff writer Richard Simms. 

We discuss rumors about Carnival Cruise Line requiring passports for all passengers, which are later debunked, and stress the importance of having a government-issued birth certificate and a passport for cruises. Simms talks about Royal Caribbean's recent problem of overbooking their ships and offering compensation to passengers who opt out of their cruise.

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Richard shares his latest trip to Bermuda on a five night cruise from New York City on Norwegian Gem. 

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Daniel and his family took a five-night sailing in December aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Encore to what was planned to be a Western Caribbean sailing. The voyage was modified because of strong winds and it wound up having three sea days and two ports of call, Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Nassau, Bahamas. We get a comprehensive review of The Haven experience on Norwegian Cruise Line. 

Richard has cruise news: 

• Trouble in Paradise with Royal Caribbean 
• A cruise ship magician assaulted
• New alcohol-free drinks on Carnival Cruise Line 
• Royal Caribbean accidentally sells wrong package
• Busted for bringing plants ashore 
• Owl on a cruise ship 

On this episode, we get a review of a seven-night cruise aboard Norwegian Breakaway out of Florida to the western Caribbean. Adam goes over the experience his family — including two kids — had on the ship, plus gave details on Norwegian Cruise Line's private destination in Belize, Harvest Caye.

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Details on Norwegian Cruise Line's latest ship, Norwegian Prima.

Richard has cruise news: 

• Making changes at Carnival Cruise Line and the delivery of the Carnival Celebration 
• Details revealed for Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas 
• Pre-cruise testing has dropped on a lot of cruise lines
• A dog service dog reaches 700 days at sea 
• Norwegian Prima makes the rounds 

   

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A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, Norwegian Prima, as it sails its first revenue cruise in Northern Europe. 

A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Spirit that sailed from Hawaii to Tahiti earlier this summer. 

Richard has cruise news on: 

• An active week in the Caribbean with storms 
• Carnival Vista experiences another technical issue 
• Carnival Luminosa is making progress 
• A new class of Princess ships

Listener Question: Regarding the NCL Platinum specialty dining perks. I will be Platinum after my cruise next month and going on the NCL Prima in January. Some of the restaurants listed like Moderno aren’t on the Prima. Any idea if we will get to choose from any of the other restaurants instead?

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A seven-night review of Norwegian Breakaway from New Orleans. This was a Western Caribbean cruise with The Haven experience. 

Richard has cruise news on: 

• Two companies loosen COVID testing protocols
• NCL cancels another sailing of Norwegian Sun and wants more of your money before you cruise 
• Keel laid on the next Royal Caribbean LNG vessel
• Faster internet could soon be coming if Royal Caribbean has anything to do with it. 

A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's 2019-launched ship Norwegian Encore. Encore was only in service for a couple of months before the pandemic shut the cruise industry down.  

Richard has cruise news: 

• Two cruise lines have resumed full operation 
• CDC makes changes to cruise line rules 
• Carnival is sailing from San Fransico for the first time ever 
• Celebrity Cruises picks a godmother for Celebrity Beyond 
• Barnacles cause a cruise to be canceled

Listener Question: I heard Princess Cruises is now offering all-inclusive pricing, what can you tell me about that?  — Julie 

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Chris and his wife just returned from a five-night cruise to the western Caribbean aboard Norwegian Getaway. He tells us about his experience with a Haven aft balcony suite, the dining and entertainment on the ship, and his time in Cozumel and Norwegian’s private destination in Belize, Harvest Caye.

Richard has cruise news: 

• Carnival details more itineraries 
• 8 cruise lines drop masks mandates
• Norwegian details business in a latest earnings update 
• Could cruise ships become apartments?
• Norwegian Sky returns to sailings 

Listener Question: Should I prepay my gratuity or tip cash at the end?  

We get a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Gem. This was a five-night cruise to Bermuda from New York City, with a double-dip at the island. Daniel traveled as both a solo guest and for the first time on Norwegian Cruise Line. 

Cruise news will return next week. Check out the Cruise News Today podcast feed or the Cruise Radio YouTube Channel for daily news. 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Staff writer Richard Simms checks in with us from Carnival Cruise Line's newest ship Mardi Gras. He is on a seven-night cruise and gives us his first impressions and how he's enjoying his Excel suite (that includes access to Loft 19). 

Walter just returned from a seven-night cruise aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Jade from Athens, Greece. This was a Greek Isles cruise with vaccinated guests only. On top of sailing in the Mediterranean this summer, he also booked a Haven Suite. We talk about his experience and just how it was. 

Listener Q: Matt from Royal Caribbean Blog answers a listener question on getting a child tested for a Christmas sailing with a lot of the pharmacies being closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

• One of the big guys at Royal Caribbean is stepping down after 33 years 
• World's largest cruise ship hits milestone
• Carnival Vista will move ports in 2023 
• A milestone out in Los Angeles this past weekend. 
• Carnival is doing it again 
• This restart is ramping up quickly, what are the latest ships back in service? 

Listener Question: Can I buy a mask on a cruise? 

A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Encore. This ship was launched in 2019 and only sailed a couple of months before the cruise industry shutdown. William and his family sailed this seven-night cruise to Southeast Alaska from Seattle. 

Richard has cruise news on: 

• Grand Turk could see cruise ships by the end of 2021 
• More Carnival Corporation cruise ships returned to service over the weekend 
• San Francisco reopened to cruise ships this week 
• Nearly 250,000 guests have sailed Carnival Cruise Line over the past three months 
• Another cruise line adds a second world cruise

Listener Questions: 

If you've got a minute could you tell me if the Covid home test for Royal Caribbean can be done anytime during the day/night.  We are heading to Miami 2 days before sailing and need to be at the airport by 9:00 a.m. Thursday (sailing Saturday).  Would be nice if we could use the test kit around 7 a.m. — Carol

We are sailing Mardi Gras and have a question about Carnival Kitchen. How much does it cost, what is involved, and how do we make reservations for it? Is this like a chef's table experience?

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

In the episode, we interview Kerry about his seven-night Western Caribbean cruise aboard Norwegian Gem. This was the first Norwegian Cruise Line ship to depart Florida since the shutdown in March 2020. 

Kerry also discusses what life was like on board during the seven-night voyage and the kind of health protocols the company has in place. 

We also learn what it was like being in the Caribbean while a hurricane is spinning around. 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We get a review of a cruise aboard Norwegian Epic. This was a seven-night sailing from Rome that hit all the popular ports of call. We learn what it is like sailing Norwegian Cruise Line in Europe and how it differs, if at all, from sailing in the Caribbean. 

Sherry Laskin has cruise news: 

• Carnival reveals details about a space onboard the upcoming Mardi Gras 
• Carnival publishes return to cruise protocols early, then pulls them off the website. 
• Mexico is suggesting that some cruise lines homeport in Cozumel 
• The future looks grim for the Alaska 2021 cruise season 
• Viking Cruises starts construction on the new ship 

Listener Question: I am curious about this Titanic II ship. Was wondering if this for real? Mike 

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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 

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 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 

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 

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.

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. 

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

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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 

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?

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 

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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 

We get a review of a seven-night Bahamas cruise on Norwegian Bliss from New York City. The cruise went to Nassau, Port Canaveral, and Great Stirrup Cay. Norwegian Bliss was launched in 2018 from Norwegian Cruise Line. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Holland America ship cancels sailing from Port Everglades 
• Royal Caribbean will bring a mega-ship to Texas 
• Cruising is only getting bigger according to a new report
• Port Everglades breaks a cruise world record 
• Carnival says watch what you wear onboard

Listener Question: Best places to stay before sailing out of Long Beach?

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Rachelle and her family just returned from one of the very last cruises of the 2019 Alaska season. She sailed on Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Jewel with her family of five, and they all stayed in The Haven. The Haven is Norwegian's ship within a ship concept. Hear what it's like cruising in The Haven and sailing Alaska. 

Date: October 20, 2019 

A seven-night Western Caribbean cruise review aboard Norwegian Breakaway. Since Breakaway was first launched in 2013, she has been all over the world. As of August 2019, she is based in Miami, Florida. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Carnival Cruise Line guest that rolled off the pier in St. Thomas 
• Royal Caribbean refurbishing their Freedom of the Seas 
• Princess Cruises has a new stage show 
• Pier repairs are forcing Carnival Sunrise to use a new pier in NYC

Listener Question: Buying the drink package when only one of us drinks. 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

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A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Bliss on a seven-night cruise. We get a comprehensive review of this Breakaway-plus class ship from a guest who traveled solo. Bliss spends the summers in Alaska and winters sailing the Caribbean. 

We answer your travel insurance questions regarding sailing during hurricane season, the difference between credit card insurance and a regular policy, and the cut off line for buying a travel insurance policy. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Political unrest diverts cruise ships from San Juan
• Allure of the Seas getting a massive makeover
• Carnival is beefing up Bermuda calls 
• Western Caribbean beaches are still struggling with seaweed
• Tropical Storm diverts, extends, and shortens Caribbean cruises 

Listener Question: We are light sleepers, can you recommend a deck that we won't hear much noise from the engine, dining, or elevators? 

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We get a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Pearl. This was a 13-night transatlantic cruise from New York City to Amsterdam.

Since the cruise was so long, we were able to find out what the ship was like during multiple sea days with no stone left unturned.

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Cruises to Cuba are officially canceled
• MSC Cruise ship crashed into a dock in Venice over the weekend
• Carnival Cruise Line got slapped with a big fine for violating probation
• Another Celebrity Cruise underwent a refurbishment

Listener Q: What is the weather like in Alaska in July?

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We get a first look at Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship to the Alaska market, Norwegian Joy. This was the very first passenger sailing in North America and we covered a lot of ground.

With 18 dining options, go-karts, laser tag, a virtual reality gaming complex; Footloose, the musical, and other shows - it was a very packed sailing. 

Norwegian Joy is the sister ship to Norwegian Bliss (launched in 2018). Many people don't know that Joy was launched first in 2017, but was purpose-built for the Chinese market. 

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A review of Norwegian Getaway, a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise ship that is currently based in Manhattan. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Norwegian Cruise Line has a new cruise ship on the west coast
• Disney Cruise Line has a new captain 
• 911 operators were fired after calling in sick to cruise 
• Carnival Corporation in hot water of environmental issues
• Nassau warns visitors not to rent scooters and bikes

Listener Question: How soon is Faster to the Faster on sale for Carnival Cruise Line? 

By request, a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Manhattan-based Norwegian Gem. This was a 10-night Southern Caribbean cruise that went to St. Thomas, San Juan, St. Maarten, St. Lucia and Antigua. We get a bow-to-stern comprehensive review of this sailing as well as details about the cruise ship. 

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A review from Norwegian Cruise Line's latest ship Norwegian Bliss. This was a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise to Miami that went to Tortola, St. Thomas, and Nassau. 

Did Viking sail into the storm knowing that bad weather was on the radar? Action News Meteorologist Greg Dee to let us know how forecastable these storms in the North Sea area.

Listener questions about Northern Europe shore excursions. 

Sherry Laskin has cruise news on: 

• Viking Ocean Cruises incident in the North Seas during rough weather
• A famous cruise ship is getting sued because of a bed bug problem in 2018
• Celebrity Summit is sailing again after a massive refurbishment
• Princess Cruises confirms two more new cruise ships

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 A full review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Sky. This ship is one of Norwegian's smaller cruise ships and sails year-round from Miami, Florida. Matt did a back-to-back sailing on this one so he sailed a four-night and then a three-night sailing. The itinerary on the cruise included Cuba, Nassau, Bahamas and the cruise line's private island of Great Stirrup Cay. 

To catch up on this week's cruise news please check out the Cruise Radio News feed by clicking here or by typing in Cruise Radio News where you listen to your favorite podcast. 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

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We get a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Hawaii-based ship Pride of America. This ship sails year-round in Hawaii and even does overnights in select ports of call. We talk about the ship, the ports of call, and dining on the ship. 

In 2018, Hawaii was plagued with natural disasters like a volcano and bad storms. What a lot of people don't realize is how quickly it bounced back. After spending a week in Hawaii, Ashley from Cruise Critic stop by the give us a progress report. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Carnival Cruise Line changing their smoking policy
• Symphony of the Seas was officially christened in Port Miami 
• Celebrity Edge has arrived at her new home in Florida 
• Carnival Cruise ship debuts a new fast food restaurant 
• Norwegian Cruise Line ship breaks down in San Juan and sends passengers home

Listener Q: What island has better snorkeling: St. Kitts or Grand Turk?  

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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.

We get a review of of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Gem on a 10-night Southern Caribbean sailing. We get a comprehensive review of the ship and the onboard experience. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Carnival's latest ship refurbishment 
• Carnival increasing the Faster to the Fun rate
• Royal Caribbean increasing drink package
• Florida man pretending to be homeland security on a cruise 

Question: I've got my first cruise in DEC. 2018 on Carnival Magic. I was just wondering if there are smoking sections on this ship?

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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.

Matt gives us a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Escape. This was a seven-night cruise from New York City to Bermuda. We get a comprehensive review of Norwegian Escape, the dining venues, entertainment, and the nightlife offered onboard. 

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Carnival Cruise Line's $200M announcement of Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival is doing away with public health forms at embarkation
• Princess Cruises reveals details about Sky Princess
• Royal Caribbean is updating their booking policy 
• Cruise ship employee kills a polar bear on an excursion

Cruise Critic stops by the give us a recap of their 2018 Cruisers' Choice Destination Awards. 

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We get a seven-night Western Caribbean review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Breakaway-class ship Norwegian Getaway. We get a comprehensive review from this first time Norwegian Cruise Line guest.

Sherry has cruise news on: 

• Carnival Cruise Line going to another West Coast port
• Carnival rescuing an NCL crew member that went overboard
• Holland America ditching another cruise ship 
• Cruise line helping fund a Statue of Liberty museum 

Listener Q: Where does the crew tips go when you hand them over directly?

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Visit the newly launched Cruise Radio YouTube channel. 

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

We get a review of a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Epic. This is a very polarizing ship, folks either love it or hate it. Steven gives us his thoughts of the ship, the experience he had, and a comprehensive review. 

Visit the newly launched Cruise Radio YouTube channel. 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

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

Kris recently returned from one of the first guest sailings aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, Norwegian Bliss. The cruise went from Miami, Florida through the Panama Canal and ended on the west coast. We get a review of this newest ship, including the Haven experience, food, entertainment, and all the things to do outdoors like the go karts and laser tag. 

Sherry has cruise news on:

• Carnival ship delayed from Tampa for two days
• Royal Caribbean ship is out of dry dock with the new skypad 
• Virgin Cruises reveals more inside spaces
• Hawaii cruises still impacted by volcano eruptions 
• Disney Cruise Line rolls out new itineraries 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We are aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, Norwegian Bliss to test out all the new offerings. Norwegian has really upped the game with Norwegian Bliss bringing onboard go karts, laser tag, interactive shows, food options, and lots of observation areas which makes it perfect for Alaska. 

Thoughts or questions? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

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

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We get a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Pearl on a cruise out of New Orleans. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• World's Largest Cruise Ship is Delivered 
• Royal Caribbean's $900M Royal Amplify program 
• Carnival Paradise Completes Massive Makeover 
• Carnival Cruise Line Adds Photo Packages 
• Norwegian Encore is Open for Bookings 
• Carnival Horizon is delivered 

We get a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Escape. Plus, Stewart has our weekly dose of cruise news and industry insight. 

Dan from TripInsurance.com answers questions on picking the right travel insurance policy.

Stewart has cruise news on: 

• Vista and Breeze fail USPH inspection. 
• Jumper on Carnival Triumph 
• Norwegian Epic heading to San Juan 
• Cruise stock prices are on the rise!
• Celebrity Edge floats out 

Listener Question: Booking a future cruise and not knowing who you are going to bring.  

Thoughts or suggestions? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.

Richard shares his seven-night review of Norwegian Cruise Line's New York City based Norwegian Breakaway. This cruise hit Orlando, private island Great Stirrup Cay, and Nassau, Bahamas. Being this is his fifth time sailing Norwegian Breakaway, Richard offers a unique perspective. 

Stewart Chiron the Cruise Guy has cruise news:

• Norwegian Cruise Line named Godfather of upcoming ship
• Carnival Cruise Line hikes drink package 
• Carnival adds news menu items, takes some away
• MSC Seaside is delivered and more ships announced 
• Princess Cruises names fourth Royal-class ship 

Listener Question:

When will St. Maarten be 100 percent recovered? Steve - Dallas

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We talk to Celebrity Chef Guy Fieri about his partnership with Carnival Cruise Line and the launch of the new sit down restaurant on Carnival Horizon, Guy's Pig and Anchor Smokehouse/Brewhouse. Plus, he answers some of your cruise and Guy's Burger Joint questions.

Sherry has cruise news on:

• The first cruise line that goes adults-only
• Disney Cruise Line is returning to the west coast
• Carnival Cruise Line is showcasing digital artwork on Carnival Horizon
• 23 countries. 40 ports. 90 days. Hear about this world cruise!  

Listener questions about a passenger with mobility issues and how accessible the private island with a wheelchair. Also about being lactose intolerant and cruising. 

With Norwegian Breakaway heading to the Baltic next year, we've been getting a lot of shore excursion questions on Northern Europe. Shelly from CruisingExcursions.com stops by to answer your Baltic cruise questions. 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

This week we get a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America. Tommy Casabona stops by from the Always Be Book podcast to talk this past week's solar eclipse. 

Sherry Kennedy has cruise news: 

• Carnival extending their sailings to Cuba 
• Carnival is testing a new port day menu
• Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas has dreaded technical issues 
• San Juan is seeing record cruise traffic 

Thoughts or review? Email me doug@cruiseradio.net.

EDITED TO REMOVE TROPICAL STORM STORY ON AUG 24.

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We get a review of a 10-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Gem. Craig gives us the details of the Norwegian Gem, what he thought of the ship and what he did on his Caribbean ports of call. 

Sherry Kennedy has cruise news on: 

• Carnival's Senior Cruise Director celebrates 30 years with the company 
• Captain Kirk to NCL: Save the Dolphins! 
• Carnival LIVE adds another performer for the fall 
• Why one cruise line is hiking cruise prices 
• Celebrity Cruises adds another female captain 

Listener Questions

• Room locations 
• Using Norwegian Cruise Line's bidding system

Thoughts or questions? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

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• Norwegian Cruise Line just made some announcements
• Carnival's third Vista-class is underway 
• Carnival hosts first social media powered bbq
• Royal Caribbean is testing a new drink program that is aligned with the other cruise lines
• Norwegian Cruise Line is ditching their Second City comedy partnership

Cruise lately? Come share your review. doug@cruiseradio.net. 

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This show is dedicated to Jeff. Rest in peace, my friend. 

Brad and his wife just returned from a Hawaii sailing on Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America. Pride of America spends the whole year sailing the Hawaiian islands on seven-night voyages. Brad gives us pre-cruise information, what it was like getting to Hawaii, the whole cruising experience, and the excursions he did. 

Stewart Chiron has cruise news on:

• Carnival debuting Dr. Seuss-themed water park 
• Norwegian Bliss entertainment is revealed 
• Norwegian add lifeguards 
• Royal Caribbean on first Cuba cruise - any word on how it's going?
• Silversea’s Silver Muse recently christened - what makes this the most luxurious ship in the world?

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

• Virgin Voyages starts construction on their first cruise ship
• Norwegian Crusie Line details a new class of ships 
• Norwegian raises their daily surcharge 
• Carnival expands the Fun Hub app to more ships 
• You can now cruise to the Titanic 

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Cruise Guy has news on:

On this episode we get a review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Escape. Hear a detailed review of this massive ship, the dining options, entertainment, and staterooms. 

Sherry Kennedy has cruise news on: 

• Carnival Corporation's announcement on their new digital technology rolling out on Princess Cruises 
• Royal Caribbean wants to send you onboard and pay you to take pictures 
• Listener question: Can we bring a power strip on the ship? 
• Listener question: Should I prepay my tips? 

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

We get a comprehensive review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Breakaway from Richard Simms today. Richard just returned from a seven-night Florida-Bahamas cruise on Breakaway from New York City. He leaves no stone unturned on this review. 

Sherry has cruise news: 

• Half Moon Cay gets new additions 
• Harvest Cay opens to cruise ship guests 
• Fathom cruise line going away in 2017
• Celebrity Cruises cuts steel on new class of ships 
• MSC Seaside is floated out of dry dock where construction continues 

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Today we get a review of Norwegian Sky. Norwegian Sky is currently sailing three- and four-night cruises from Miami to the Bahamas with stops at the private island Great Stirrup Cay, Freeport, and Nassau. The ship introduced an exciting new concept starting in January 2016 where alcohol is included in the cost of the cruise. We get a full review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Sky.

We get tips on maximizing your inside cabin from CruiseTipsTV. CruiseTipsTV was born over a family dinner table conversation- they love to cruise and felt the had a secret to share. So, in 2013, they took the plunge and decided to try YouTube as their format for creating full ship video tour and cruise related tip videos. Their CruiseTipsTV and CruiseGear channels have grown to a library of over 200 videos, ranging from interactive vlogs and Q&A with our subscribers, to packing and fashion tips, using technology to enhance your cruise, and even food videos.

We get a detailed review of Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, Norwegian Escape. John and his wife just returned from a seven-night Western Caribbean sailing. He gives a detailed review of the sailing, the itinerary, and what to do on Norwegian Escape. A lot of first time tips for cruisers considering Norwegian Escape.

On this episode, we get a detailed review of Norwegian Jade. 

Plus Cruise Guy has cruise news on: 

• Royal Caribbean upgrades
• Norwegian upgrades
• Norwegian's private island upgrades
• Queen Mary 2 remastered
• Faster passport re-entry program arriving to Port Everglades

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

• Carnival Vista completes sea trials
• Royal Caribbean's newest ship delivered 
• 5 more ships for Carnival Corp confirmed
• Fathom's Cuba problem
• MSC orders 4 more mega ships. Nearly a dozen new ships in next few years 

Listener Q: We leave in 16 days and I just realized that marriage license has my name from my previous marriage on it and maiden name on birth certificate of course and then my married name now is on my drivers license so I don't know if that's OK?

Tina just returned from Norwegian Escape where she did a seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship. She gives us a comprehensive review. 

• Anthem of the Seas safely back in port 
• Princess Cruises changes their hull on all ships 
• Carnival Inspiration out of dry dock with Fun Ship 2.0 
• Carnival reveals 3,500 itineraries through April 2018
• How is Harmony of the Seas shaping up?
• Carnival Vista update

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Jessica and her family just returned from a seven-night Western Caribbean sailing aboard Norwegian Star, a ship that sails seasonally from the port of Tampa. Being Jessica's first time aboard, she gives a comprehensive review of embarkation from Tampa, first impressions, staterooms, dining, entertainment and ports. 

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

On this episode, Tommy gives us his review of his latest cruise aboard Norwegian Pearl. This wasn't an ordinary cruise, though. It was a themed cruise put on by country superstars Florida-Georgia Line. Tommy gives his impressions of the cruise overall, the food, staterooms, and, most importantly, the entertainment. 

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Brand new ship alert! We are broadcasting aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Escape. There are over a dozen dining venues, tons of partnerships like Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville and more. We give you a comprehensive Norwegian Escape review. 

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Theresa just returned from a seven-night Caribbean cruise aboard Norwegian Getaway, a Norwegian Cruise Line ship that does seven-night Caribbean cruises from Miami, Florida. She leave no stone unturned in this Norwegian Getaway talking about embarkation, dining, staterooms, ports and pre-cruise. 

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Richard just returned from a seven-night Florida-Bahamas sailing aboard Norwegian Gem from Manhattan. Being a NYC resident, Richard loves sailing from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal because it's a short walk from his house. Richard leave no stone unturned on this Norwegian Gem review and covers all the bases of this cruise ship. 

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Theresa just returned from an 18-night repositioning sailing aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Jewel from Houston to Seattle. Hear a comprehensive Norwegian Jewel review.

Theresa Norton-Masek has cruise news:

• New class of service for Royal Caribbean
• Carnival WIFI soon to go fleetwide
• Houston loses cruise ships, again
• Hawaii seeking consultants to boost cruise business
• Norwegian Cruise Line extending Seattle

We talk to a couple from Florida who have done 100 cruises on the same ship from Port Canaveral, Florida. They tell us why they have been on the ship 100 times, what keeps them coming back, and if they plan to cruise elsewhere. 

Josh the Cruise Director from Carnival Sensation drops by the talk about Carnival Sensation and what makes it so appealing. 

A listener gives us a review of their eight-night Florida/Bahamas cruise on Norwegian Gem. 

Listener, Richard, gives us a Norwegian Getaway review after returning from his seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing out of Miami.

Plus, travel expert Jason Coleman and answers listener questions about U.S. Customs and Immigration, passport stamps, and seasickness medication.

On this episode, we get a comprehensive review of Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America from Theresa Russell. She shares her Hawaii cruise experience, what is was like sailing on a U.S. flagged ship, and what the Hawaiian Islands were like. 

Cruise News

• Norwegian revamps their dining package
• Cruises to nowhere ending
• Recapping Carnival's no bottle policy 
• HAL Noordam rescues sightseeeing boat
   

  Listener question:

   

  A Villa on Carnival's private island Half Moon Cay for 8 people is $499.99. The villa itself holds 18 people. Every person over 8 is required to pay $49.99 per person.

  We have 11 people in our party total - I am confused why we have to pay extra if the villa itself is designed for 18 people in the first place. Any ideas?

   

  Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

   

  Find in-depth cruise news and ship reviews at https://cruiseradio.net

On this episode, Jeff from Tampa gives us a comprehensive review of his latest four-night Bahamas sailing aboard Norwegian Sky from Miami.

Jeff covers his impressions of Norwegian Sky; the stateroom, food, entertainment, and what he did in Freeport and Nassau, Bahamas.

Last week, we had Nancy Schretter on from Family Travel Network about her review of Norwegian Jade. Listener, Jessica, emailed in to ask a couple questions about sailing Europe with her family – so Nancy is back to answer those questions.

On this episode, Nancy Schretter stops by to give us her Norwegian Jade review. She just returned from a 10-day cruise in the Eastern Mediterranean.  

Stewart Chiron the Cruise Guy has cruise news:

• Allure of the Seas dry dock complete
• NCL reverse food only in dining room policy
• Three queen meet up in Liverpool
• Queen Elizabeth 2 left to rot
• New guesses on Carnival Corp. announcement

Listener Tommy lives in NYC and just took a 9-night Eastern Caribbean sailing aboard Norwegian Gem. On this sailing they hit San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, USVI; Philipsburg, St Maarten; and Tortola.

Tommy gives his first impressions of the ship, and reviews Freestyle Dining, his stateroom, entertainment, ports, and gives his final thoughts of Norwegian Gem. He leaves no stone unturned on this Norwegian Gem review!

Plus, we talk upcoming cruise ships!

Upcoming Ships 2015/2016

• Anthem of the Seas
• Viking Star
• Norwegian Escape
• Carnival Vista
• Holland America's Koningsdam

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Listener Kabir just returned from a sailing aboard Norwegian Epic, taking him on a seven-night jaunt around the Western Caribbean. Kabir gives us a full Norwegian Epic review, including embarkation, the stateroom, dining options, entertainment, and shares his tips and secrets.

Bill Panoff, president and CEO of Fort Lauderdale-based PPI Group, began his career as a cruise director and went into cruise publishing. Bill took his company a step further and now has over 60 port shopping lecturers. No one knows cruise port shopping like Bill. He joins us to answer a listener question about Caribbean port shopping.

Stewart Chiron the Cruise Guy has cruise news on:

• Carnival Vista itineraries
• Norwegian Cruise Line tipping increases
• New venue for upcoming Holland America ship
• Disney adds Star Wars themed cruises
• Captain of Costa Concordia sentenced

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Craig Storm and his wife just returned from a two-night cruise to nowhere, thanks to a 40th birthday gift from his parents. Being a first time cruiser, we ask Craig a lot of questions about his experience, if he had any preconceived notions about cruising the Norwegian Breakaway and the overall cruise experience.

Craig goes into detail about the dining aboard Norwegian Breakaway, the food options, entertainment, things to do aboard the ship and gives tips for cruisers considering Norwegian Breakaway.

Theresa Masek from TravelPulse.com has Cruise News on:

• Carnival Corp aired their Super Bowl commercial and used content from a JFK speech -  why?
• The old Carnival Celebration, now operating as the Grand Celebration, didn't quite make it out of port - what happened?
• Is it still considered wave season? - any deals to be had
• Royal Caribbean's Dynamic Dining issues 
• Carnival Cruise Line changing their loyalty program

January has proven to be a busy month for the cruise industry with the reveal of Norwegian Cruise Line's upcoming Norwegian Escape, Carnival Cruise Line announcing a new smartphone app and brand new internet at sea packages, and New Orleans hitting one million cruise passengers. 

We were in New York City aboard Norwegian Breakaway when they revealed more details about the upcoming Norwegian Escape, like: a brew hall, tapas bar, new shows, and more. We get the overall response. 

Carnival Cruise Line just announced their new smartphone app that allows you to talk to other cruisers and keep track of your onboard spending. This app is aligned with other cruise line apps in the industry. On top of the app, Carnival announced internet packages aboard their ships for as little as $5 a day.

Adrian Greystone, Director of Guest Technology stops by the gives us the scoop on the new smartphone app.

On this episode, Jason Leppert, editor of Popular Cruising joins us to talk about his latest experience aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America, a cruise ship based year-round in the Hawaiian islands. Jason gives us a full review of the itinerary, the ship, dining venues and entertainment aboard the ship.

Finally, a cruise that over-nights in different ports!

MSC Cruises has launched Inclusive Experiences, a new pricing structure in which guests choose an “experience” based on their own personal preferences and amenities desired while cruising. Valued at up to $700+ per person, guests have the option of selecting from four different experience categories — Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and MSC Yacht Club — ranging from a la carte to all-inclusive amenities. As a positioned industry expert, Theresa Masek, editor-in-chief of Vacation Agent Magazine, chats with us about the packages and gives her thoughts.

We are aboard Norwegian Getaway for the inaugural sailing from her new home in Port Miami. We hear from guests onboard the ship, journalists, and give you a run down of activities, entertainment and dining options. Listen and learn about Norwegian Getaway!

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

Nancy Schretter with the Family Travel Network reviews her seven-night Western Caribbean sailing aboard Norwegian Pearl. Hear a detailed review about the ship, the dining options, entertainment venues, kid's program and the itinerary. Listen and learn! 

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

This week, we talk to Simon and Tim, co-hosts of CruiseChat; they were aboard Norwegian Breakaway for the big christening event in New York City. Hear all about the ship and their first impressions.

Plus, Cruise Guy with Cruise News.

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

This week, we get a full review of Norwegian Epic plus cruise news from Stewart Chiron The Cruise Guy.

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net 

This week, Simon Veness, editor in chief of World of Cruising joins us to share his latest voyage aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Hawaii-based Pride of America.

Cruise Guy stops by with our weekly Cruise News.

Thoughts or reviews? Email me: doug@cruiseradio.net