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Syndication

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

Direct download: EPI800MAR1424.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas from Kevin. Kevin's family took a three-night weekend cruise to The Bahamas from Port Canaveral on this Oasis-class ship. Staff writer Ricahrd Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI799MAR0724.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Will gives us a review of Carnival Spirit. This was a seven-night cruise to Southeast Alaska from Seattle, Washington. Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI798FEB292024.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Celebrity Silhouette during a transatlantic crossing. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news.

Direct download: EPI797FEB2224.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Full review of Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. 

Direct download: EPI796FEB1524.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Joe reviews his family's seven-night cruise on Carnival Jubilee from Galveston to the Western Caribean. 

Direct download: EPI795FEB1124.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Angie has a review of her seven-night cruise aboard Holland America Line's ms Eurodam. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI795FEB0824.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas review from a preview cruise with around 5,000 guests onboard. Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, stops by the talk about the new resort Celebration Key. 

Direct download: EPI794FEB0424_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

A review of MSC Meraviglia to the Bahamas and Florida. 

Direct download: EPI793FEB12024.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Carnival Vista during a Caribbean review. We are also answering your travel insurance questions. 

Direct download: EPI792JAN2524.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:15pm EDT

Sheldon took an Eastern Med cruise on Celebrity Apex last fall and gives us a comprehensive review of his sailing and trip. 

Direct download: EPI791JAN2124.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A seven-night review of Carnival Venezia cruise out of New York City to the Bahamas. Plus, this week's cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI790JAN1824.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Scott gives us a review of Virigin Voyages' Scarlett Lady from PortMiami. 

Direct download: EPI789JAN1224.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Cruise news with staff writer Richard Simms. 

Direct download: EPI788JAN052024.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:31am EDT

An overview of Carnival Cruise Line's new ship, Carnival Jubilee. Cruise news from staff writer Richard Simms. 

Direct download: EPI787DEC2823.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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

Direct download: EPI786DEC2122.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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

Direct download: EPI785DEC142023_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Kevin gives us his review of Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas. 

Direct download: EPI784DEC0723_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of P&O Cruises Iona. This was a 14 night cruise to Lisbon and Spain from the UK. 

Direct download: EPI783DEC032023mp3.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of the brand new Celebrity Ascent from Port Everglades, Florida. 

Direct download: EPI782NOV3023.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Direct download: EPI781NOV2323.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Margaritaville at Sea Paradise. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI780NOV1623.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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

Direct download: EPI779NOV0923.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Direct download: EPI778NOV0223.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of a Celebrity Millennium Alaska cruise that started in Anchorage, Alaska and went south to Vancouver. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news on Carnival Corporation losing a court lawsuit, a man overboard, data charges at sea, and a shipyard employee stealing trade secrets. 

Direct download: EPI777OCT2623P.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Adam gives us a review of Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas up to the Canada/New England area. Staff writer Richard Simms gives us this week's top cruise industry news stories. 

Direct download: EPI776OCT1923.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:04am EDT

Mark gives us a review of Disney Wonder out of San Diego. Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI775OCT1223.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Virgin Voyages latest vessel, Valiant Lady. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI774OCT0823.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Nick and his wife cruised on Carnival Vista from Galveston, Texas. We get a full review of the ships and the ports of call. 

Direct download: EPI773OCT0423_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

An eight-night Southern Caribbean review of Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Celebration. 

Direct download: EPI772SEPT2823.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Holland America Line's Nieuw Statendam to the Southern Caribbean. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news.

Direct download: EPI771SEPT2123.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas. Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI770SEPT142023.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of MSC Seaside from Port Canaveral, Florida. This was a three night cruise down to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. 

Dan Skilken of TripInsurance.com drops by the tackle some of your listener questions. 

Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI769SEPT72023.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Matt reviews his seven-night Mediterranean cruise on MSC Seaview that sailed roundtrip from Barcalona, Spain, over Memorial Day weekend. 

Direct download: EPI768SEP0323.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

In this podcast episode, Doug welcomes Heather as a guest to review her recent cruise on Carnival Glory. Heather and her husband chose this seven-night cruise out of New Orleans and booked a suite on the ship.

They had a smooth embarkation process and were impressed with the spaciousness and storage of their suite. Heather mentions that the ship sometimes felt crowded, especially in the atrium and pool deck areas. 

She also talks about their experiences in Key West, Freeport, and Nassau ports. Heather highlights the convenience and ease of disembarkation with a suite and shares some tips for first-time cruisers on Carnival Glory.

 
Direct download: EPI767AUG312023a.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Norwegian Sky review. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI766AUG242023.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Carnival Luminosa on an eight-night sailing from Seattle to Southeast Alaska. 

Direct download: EPI765AUG1723.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Celebrity Beyond. Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI764AUG1023.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of a Caribbean sailing aboard Scarlet Lady. 

Direct download: EPI763AUG0323A.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:05am EDT

Direct download: EPI762JUL2723.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A Christmas cruise that Dale and his family took aboard Carnival Magic. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI761JUL1923.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's 2013-launched Norwegian Breakaway. 

Direct download: EPI760JUL1323.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Celebrity Summit out of Bayonne, NJ that sailed a seven-night Bermuda cruise. 

Direct download: EPI759JUL0623.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Carnival Cruise Line's ship Carnival Panorama. This was a seven-night cruise from Long Beach, California down to the Mexican Riviera. 

Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news: 

Topic 1: Passenger Falling Overboard: A passenger on Mariner of the Seas fell off the ship while trying to take a selfie. The crew was able to rescue her after 45 minutes.

Topic 2: Carnival Corporation's Financial Success: Carnival Corporation announced during its quarterly report that they are making money again and have seen a record number of bookings. They currently have $72 billion worth of deposits for future cruises.

Topic 3: Port Miami Accident: An accident involving a 30-foot boat hitting a ferry boat caused Port Miami to be shut down, impacting about 30,000 cruise passengers. Three ships were waiting at sea to enter port, causing a chaotic situation.

Topic 4: Conversion of Jazz Clubs into Non-Smoking Casinos" Explanation of the conversion of jazz clubs on Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Allure of the Seas into non-smoking casinos.

Topic 5: Celebrity Cruises to Visit Perfect Day at CocoCay: Announcement that Celebrity Reflection and Celebrity Beyond will sail out of Fort Lauderdale Port Everglades to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay starting in the summer of 2024.

Carnival Panorama review 

Boarding the Carnival Panorama. Angie discusses their experience of boarding the Carnival Panorama, including the check-in process and the organization of the terminal.

First Impressions of the Carnival Panorama: Angie shares their initial thoughts on the Carnival Panorama, describing its fresh look, bright colors, and unique digital screen in the central atrium.

Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom: Angie describes their deluxe ocean view stateroom, highlighting its spaciousness, additional sofa, and the surprise of having two bathrooms. Discussion about cabin space, luggage storage, and availability of USB plugs.

Review of the buffet options on the ship, limited dinner offerings, and alternative casual dining options.

Experience with the main dining room, use of the Hub app for reservations, and overall satisfaction with the food.

Ship Crowds and Ocean Plaza Description: Angie discusses the crowded areas on the ship, mainly the Ocean Plaza venue and the small pools on Lido deck. 

Smoking in the Casino: Angie talks about the casino's smoking policy and the balcony cabins above the smoking area.

Exploring Puerto Vallarta Description: Angie shares their experience exploring Puerto Vallarta, including visiting art galleries, walking along the Malecon, and visiting the cathedral.

Late Night Departures. Discussion about the departure times of the itinerary, explicitly mentioning Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan.

Whale Watching in Cabo. Describing a whale watching tour taken in Cabo, including the option to book through Carnival or with local vendors.

Facial Recognition and Disembarkation. Talking about using facial recognition during embarkation and disembarkation, as well as the process of getting off the ship and organizing luggage.

Discussion about trying different cruise lines and the motivation behind it.

Description of the Carnival Panorama ship and its comfortable spaces.

Conclusion of the interview with Angie about her first-time sailing experience with Carnival Cruise Line.

Direct download: EPI758JUN2923.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Carnival Cruise Line's new ship, Carnival Venezia, as it sailed its first cruise from New York City to Bermuda. 

he most valuable lesson from Ben's experience is that the ship is not designed for short cruises, as it is more suited for longer, relaxing trips. 

Ben recommends that those looking for a party cruise consider a four or five-day trip from Miami, which is better equipped for such an environment.

Direct download: EPI757JUN2323.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Bahamian government's plan to raise port taxes [00:01:00] The Bahamian government wants to raise port taxes, which is an expense that cruise lines pass on to cruisers. Christine Duffy, the president of Carnival Cruise Line, recently told Travel Weekly that Carnival would like to push these new fees off for a while.

NTSB report on a cruise ship collision in Alaska [00:03:52] The NTSB released their report about a cruise ship that hit the dock last year in Alaska, and it turns out that back in 2021, the pier had been extended as part of a renovation process, but the information was not actually passed along to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Royal Caribbean's new ship Utopia of the Seas [00:05:50] Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas, an Oasis class ship, will start sailing next summer and doing short cruises out of Port Canaveral. 

Princess Cruises' New Ship [00:07:36] Discusses Princess Cruises' new ship, Sun Princess, and its family-oriented features, including a new area called Park 19 with a sea breeze attraction, splash zone, and ping pong tables.

Norwegian Cruise Line's New Shows [00:10:34] Discusses Norwegian Cruise Line's decision to replace their Broadway-style shows with cheaper, jukebox musicals, and the potential impact on guest experience.

New Carnival Cruise Line Menus [00:13:22] Discusses the new menus being introduced on the Carnival Dream, which include more vegetarian options and the ability to order items from specialty restaurants for a surcharge.

Food Talk [00:15:38] Doug Parker and Richard Simms discuss the new menu on Carnival Cruise Line's Dream ship, including the steakhouse selections and the main dining room's comfort food.

Travel Insurance during Hurricane Season [00:20:55] Dan Silkin, President of tripinsurance.com, advises listeners to buy travel insurance to protect against hurricanes canceling their vacation, but notes that cruise ships are not considered destinations by insurance companies.

Compensation for Missed Ports [00:23:25] Doug Parker asks Dan Silkin if missing a port due to political unrest, like Royal Caribbean's abrupt departure from Haifa, would be compensated by travel insurance, but Silkin notes that ports of call may not be considered destinations by insurance companies.

Norovirus and COVID-19 [00:25:13] Discussion on how travel insurance policies cover norovirus and COVID-19, and the importance of having third-party medical proof for filing a claim.

Medical Coverage on Cruise Ships [00:30:38] Explanation of how travel insurance policies cover medical treatment on board a ship, even if the incident was not reported locally, and the importance of having travel insurance for medical coverage.

Primary Coverage for Medical Expenses [00:31:12] Importance of buying a travel insurance plan with primary coverage for medical expenses, as domestic health insurance policies may not cover medical treatment on board a ship or outside the United States.

Travel Insurance Coverage [00:32:18] Discussion on the importance of medical evacuation coverage and recommended coverage amounts for different travel destinations.

Disputed Insurance Claim [00:36:03] Advice on how to appeal a denied insurance claim and the option to file a complaint with the state insurance bureau.

Customer Perception of Carnival [00:40:12] Discussion on a customer's negative experience with Carnival Cruise Line and the importance of customer perception in the service industry.

How to Contact Trip Insurance [00:41:25] Dan Silkin, President of Trip Insurance, shares how to contact their customer support line or send an email for assistance.

Direct download: EPI756JUN2223.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

In this episode of Cruise Radio, we interview Chris about his 11-night cruise on Windstar Cruises' Star Breeze to Alaska.

Chris shares his pre-cruise thoughts, experience boarding the ship, and itinerary highlights. He recommends Windstar Cruises for their knowledgeable expedition leaders and the Star Breeze as an expedition ship. Doug and Chris also discuss dining options and enrichment and entertainment options on the ship.

 
 
 
Direct download: EPI755JUN1523_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

In this episode of Cruise Radio, host Doug interviews Mark about his 11-night Western Mediterranean cruise on Azamara Quest from Azamara Cruises. Mark shares his experiences on the ship, including the embarkation process, dining, entertainment, and amenities. He also talks about his time in various ports of call and his post-cruise time in Zurich. Mark highly recommends Azamara as a fantastic luxury cruise line and praises the attention to detail and the quality of the food.

Direct download: EPI754JUN0823_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:50am EDT

Doug shares his initial thoughts on Carnival Venezia. Staff Writer Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI753JUN0123_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

This podcast episode discusses Doug's 20-day sailing experience on the Holland America Line's ship ms Rotterdam. Doug and Richard discuss boredom with all those sea days, music, meals, and internet connectivity. 

Doug shares his experience at the exact spot where the Titanic sank, stepping out of his comfort zone by trying new things like painting and playing pickleball.

They also briefly mention the ports of call on Richard's Rotterdam sailing, including Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens and the Little Mermaid statue. Doug dispels some myths about cruising at the end of the episode.

Direct download: EPI752MAY2523.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

On this episode of the Cruise Radio podcast, host Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Simms discuss various topics related to the cruise industry.

They talk about the record-breaking number of passengers at PortMiami, the opening of the newly revitalized Nassau cruise port, Virgin Voyages' new ship, Carnival bringing another ship to Florida, and where to get your passport stamped in Nassau, Bahamas. 

We also get a review of a 10-night Carnival Miracle cruise to Alaska. Our guest shares his experiences on the cruise including embarkation, dining, entertainment, and ports of call. We offer tips for future cruisers, such as exploring the ship, booking excursions early, and purchasing trip insurance. Despite some minor hiccups, our guest and his family all had an enjoyable experience on their Carnival Miracle cruise to Alaska.

Direct download: EPI751MAY1823A.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas and share their experiences dining and exploring on the ship. 

This week we discuss recent incidents in the cruise industry, including MSC Cruises failing a CDC inspection, a Royal Caribbean guest arrested for placing a camera in a bathroom, and a man being airlifted from a Carnival ship for eating a battery. The hosts also discuss the impact of 9/11 on the cruise industry and share positive stories about Norwegian Cruise Line's Giving Joy contest and the Queen Mary hotel.

 

Direct download: EPI750MAY112023.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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.

Direct download: EPI749MAY0423.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

In this episode of Cruise Radio, Doug Parker interviews Lee Mason, the cruise director aboard Carnival Celebration. They discuss Lee's background, his journey to becoming a cruise director, and the difference between an entertainment director and a cruise director. Lee also talks about the new safety drill, e-muster, and how it has been received by guests and the US Coast Guard. Additionally, Lee shares his thoughts on the exclusive shows on Carnival Celebration, his preference for the main theater in the front of the ship, and his favorite itineraries. Finally, Lee gives advice to a listener on cruising for the first time and how to avoid seasickness.

 
 
 
Direct download: EPI748APR2723A.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:26am EDT

A review of Carnival Magic from New York City down to the Eastern Caribbean. 

Direct download: EPI747APR2023A.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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

Direct download: EPI746APR1323.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Royal Princess review. Kurt and his wife took a 15-night cruise aboard Royal Princess from San Francisco to Hawaii over Christmas and New Year's. He goes over his thoughts of his cabin and the dining and entertainment on board, how the weather was on the way to Hawaii that time of year, and what he did while in Hawaii for four days.

Richard has cruise news

  • Guest dies on a Virgin Voyages sailing 
  • Port of Galveston sees more growth 
  • All you can cruise pass for $899
  • Next Disney Cruise Line ship underway 
  • 6 Changes in the cruise industry, effective this month

Listen to unedited interviews with cruise line executives. Join the Cruise Radio Extra Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

 

Direct download: EPI745APR0623.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Tim and his wife recently took a seven-night eastern Caribbean cruise aboard Carnival's newest ship Carnival Celebration. He goes over his first impressions of an Excel-class ship, what he thought of the BOLT roller coaster, how he liked the dining and entertainment options on board, and what he and his wife did while in port.

Richard has cruise news: 

 

Listen to unedited interviews with cruise line executives and public figures. Join the Cruise Radio Extra Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

 

Direct download: EPI744MAR3023.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Adam, his three-year-old daughter, and his father-in-law took a cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas out of Bayonne, New Jersey, this past December. The cruise visited Florida and the Bahamas. He goes over why Anthem is the perfect ship for chilly winter weather, what their experience was with the entertainment, how his daughter liked the kids' club, and what they did during their day at Royal Caribbean's private island Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Richard has cruise news

  • Royal Caribbean gets rid of the Sky Pad feature 
  • Norwegian Cruise Line reverts back to e-muster drill 
  • Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings CEO Frank Del Rio steps down 
  • Carnival Corporation sells Seabourn ship 
  • Costa Venezia transferred to Carnival Cruise Line, and work beings 
  • Celebrity Ascent opens two preview sailings for booking before the christening 

 

Direct download: EPI743MAR2323.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A 2023 review of Carnival Luminosa. This was a three-night sailing from Brisbane, Australia with no ports, otherwise known as a cruise to nowhere. A frequent Carnival Cruise Line cruiser, John gives us the details about the ship and his initial thoughts on the refurbishment that Luminosa underwent following its transfer from Costa Cruises. 

Listen to unedited interviews with cruise line executives and public figures. Join the Cruise Radio Extra Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

Direct download: EPI742MAR1923.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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 

You're invited to the conversation. Join the Cruise Radio Extra Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

Direct download: EPI741MARCH1623.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Getting you caught up on this week in the cruise industry.

Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news on:

  • Royal Caribbean changing room service from twice to once
  • Death on a Carnival Cruise Line ship in which the FBI is involved 
  • Royal Caribbean detailing its Royal beach Club in Nassau, Bahamas 
  • Disney Cruise Line giving details about its Lighthouse Point opening soon 
  • Norwegian Cruise Line skipping a port over port congestion and detailing where Norwegian Sky is going 
  • Holland America Line launching a new series of journeys that sail round trip from North America 

Want to support Cruise Radio? Join the Cruise Radio Extra Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

Direct download: EPI740MAR1223.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:43pm EDT

A review of Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Valor. 

Want to support Cruise Radio? Join the Cruise Radio Extra Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

Direct download: EPI739MAR0923_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

In this episode, we get a review of a four-night voyage to Bermuda aboard Carnival Magic out of Norfolk, Virginia.

Richard has cruise news.

Want to support Cruise Radio? Join the Cruise Radio Extra Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

Direct download: EPI738MAR0323_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas from Cruise Tips TV. This was a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral.  

Want to support Cruise Radio? Join the Cruise Radio Extra Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

Direct download: EPI737FEB2323_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Kabir recently took an eight-night Caribbean cruise aboard Virgin Voyages' ship Valiant Lady out of PortMiami. He goes over what sets this cruise line apart from others, how the food and entertainment were on board, and what he did in each port of call.

Richard has cruise news on:

  • Carnival's oldest ship is back in service after a two-week dry dock
  • Royal is making something free that once had a cost attached
  • That pesky rock slide in Alaska may soon go away
  • One island is considering limiting the number of cruise ships
  • Heads up, if you're getting a passport soon

Listener Question: Selina asks, I’m going on a cruise in December. My passport expires three days after we’re supposed to board. Will that be a problem?

Want to support Cruise Radio? Join the Cruise Radio Extra Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

Mentioned in the show:

 

Direct download: EPI736021623.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Kristin and her husband Scott recently took a seven-night western Caribbean cruise out of Miami aboard MSC Cruises’ newest ship, MSC Seascape. Hear what they thought of their cabin, the food on board, the entertainment, and how they ended up with an extra day at MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay.

Richard Simms has cruise news on

  • Royal Caribbean Group (RCL) is moving the financial needle in the right direction 
  • Carnival Cruise Line releases a lot of sailings from 15 to 31 nights to and from the Pacific region
  • Nearly half of Princess's cruise fleet will sail Alaska next year 
  • Details revealed on Sun Princess 
  • Crystal Cruises is back and will sail this summer 

Cruise Radio Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cruiseradio 

Direct download: EPI735FEB0923.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Kevin, his wife, and their two-year-old son took a Thanksgiving cruise aboard Carnival Horizon to Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel. He shares their thoughts on their Grand Suite stateroom, the dining on board (including the Thanksgiving feast!), the kids’ club, and more.

Richard has cruise news:

  • Cruise line cancels sailing over food and drink technical issues
  • Smoking in Mexico could land you in jail or a $550 fine
  • Protests in Cozumel over new cruise pier
  • Norwegian Cruise Line adds ship to Baltimore, MD 
  • Carnival Cruise Line sends letters to guests asking them to behave
Direct download: EPI734FEB0223.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

We get a five-night review of Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Beyond. The ship debuted in the Spring of 2022 and sailed its inaugural sailing in November 2022. This sailing went to Mexico, calling at Cozumel and Costa Maya. 

Richard has cruise news: 

  • Two changes at Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Nassau, Bahamas, admits they were wrong when it comes to cruise passengers 
  • Carnival Corporation makes changes to the internet 
  • Another ship floats out and picks the captains 
  • Brooklyn's cruise terminal houses migrant workers 
Direct download: EPI733JAN2623.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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.

Direct download: EPI732JAN1923_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

On this episode, we get a review of a special seven-night 'The Love Boat' themed cruise aboard Princess Cruises' newest ship, Discovery Princess out of Los Angeles. We hear details on the food, entertainment, and all of the special activities that took place with the cast of 'The Love Boat.'

Direct download: EPI731JAN1223.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:20am EDT

A review of Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas to Southeast Alaska that sailed from Vancouver, British Columbia. 

Richard Simms has cruise news: 

  • Carnival raises gratuities and internet prices
  • Norwegian Cruise Line cuts back on turndown service and eliminates cabin stewards 
  • Ship goes to dry dock mid-cruise
  • Norwegian restarts testing for select guests  

Dan from TripInsurance.com drops by to answer listener questions on navigating their way around airline cancellations and delays. 

 

Direct download: EPI730JAN0523.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Review of Carnival Pride in Northern Europe and the Baltic. 

Direct download: EPI728DEC3122_EDIT_FINAL.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:27pm EDT

The top cruise news stories of 2022 and a question about visiting St. Thomas. 

Direct download: EPI728DEC2922.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of MSC Cruises Seashore from PortMiami that was taken in summer 2022. 

Direct download: EPI727DEC2222.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Carnival Celebration's first passenger voyage: a two-week transatlantic crossing from the UK to Miami with seven sea days in a row. 

Direct download: EPI726DEC1522_EDIT-1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Why you need to travel with trip insurance in 2023. Richard Simms has cruise news. 

Direct download: EPI725SDEC0822.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas from Bayonne, NJ. 

Direct download: EPI724DEC0122.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Looking at some of the changes of Carnival Celebration, Carnival Cruise Line's newest excel class ship.

Richard Simms has cruise news on:

  • Diamond Princess returns to sea
  • Royal Caribbean tests changing main dining room menu
  • Carnival Celebration christened 
  • Disney brings back old-school mustering 
  • MSC drops the testing requirement 
Direct download: EPI723NOV2422.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

The first sailing on Carnival Cruise Line's newest ship Carnival Celebration. We give some initial thoughts and feedback. 

Direct download: EPI722NOV172022.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:02pm EDT

On this week's episode, we get a review of a western Caribbean voyage out of Port Everglades aboard one of Princess Cruises' newest ships Sky Princess. This interview was recorded in May 2022.

Direct download: EPI721NOV1022_EDIT.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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 
Direct download: EPI720NOV0322.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Royal Caribbean's Jewel of the Seas from the summer 2022. 

Direct download: EPI719OCT2722.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Carnival Cruise Line's ship Carnival Splendor to southeast Alaska from Seattle. This voyage was taken in summer 2022. 

Direct download: EPI718OCT2022.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

We get a review of Disney Cruise Line's brand new ship Disney Wish. This was a three-night cruise to Nassau, Bahamas, and the private island Castaway Cay. 

Richard Simms has cruise news

  • A busy week in the Caribbean with Hurricane Ian 
  • Canada and two more cruise lines drop vaccination mandates 
  • Carnival Luminosa is now sailing and picking up crew ahead of its Australian season 
  • Port Saint John has welcomed its three millionth cruise passenger 
  • Saying goodbye to Celebrity Cruises' former ship Horizon 

Listener Question: When is the deadline for buying travel insurance during hurricane season? 

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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.

Direct download: EPI715SEPT2922.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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?

Direct download: EPI714SEPT2222.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas on a nine-night cruise to Bermuda, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and the Bahamas. 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

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

Direct download: EPI713SEPT152022.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A seven-night Western Caribbean cruise review of Carnival's Mardi Gras. 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

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

Direct download: EPI712SEP0822.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A seven-night review of Disney Crusie Line's Disney Fantasy. 

Direct download: EPI711SEPT0122.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A 2022 review of Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas from Port Canaveral, Florida. 

Richard has cruise news

  • Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises drop mandates on most cruises 
  • Carnival Luminosa itineraries now listed on the Carnival Cruise Line website
  • Grand Cayman lifts COVID protocols for all visitors and could get a pier
  • Princess goes all in on bidding for an upgrade
  • You can live on a cruise ship for as little as $600,000

Listener Question: What is a cruise duck? 

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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.

Direct download: EPI710AUG2522.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

Seven-night cruise on Celebrity Eclipse to Southeast Alaska sailing from Vancouver, British Columbia.  

Richard has cruise news

1. More cruise lines relax or drop vaccination mandates and pre-cruise testing

2. This past Monday, Carnival Cruise Line had a recording booking day for the first time since 2019 

3. Virgin Voyages is getting a surge of a half billion dollars in fresh capital

4. An extra day for guests sailing Carnival Splendor in Australia in October

5. The rockslide in Skagway, Alaska, has closed one pier for the rest of the 2022 season 

6. Princess Cruises partners with a NASCAR race team

Listener Question: Should I buy the Cloud 9 Thermal Suite on Carnival in advance for $199, or will it be cheaper once onboard? We are on a week-long cruise on Carnival Panorama in October. 

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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.

Direct download: EPI708AUG112022.mp3
Direct download: EPI709AUG1821.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of a six-night Caribbean sailing on Carnival Magic from Port Canaveral. The ports of call on this sailing were Carnival's private island Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, and Amber Cove. We get a bow-to-stern review from this family of three. 

Richard Simms has cruise news

  • Cruise protocols are changing again
  • More changes at Carnival Cruise Line
  • Norwegian Cruise Line had a Q2 business update 
  • Hawaii-based Pride of America is sailing at half capacity because Americans don't want to work
  • Diamond Princess is back in America but won't be going anywhere until November 

Listener Question: What are the best Haven upgrade strategies? My assumption is eggs in one basket. Daniel 

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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.

 

---

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.

Direct download: EPI708AUG112022.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A seven-night cruise on MSC Cruises MSC Lirica that was roundtrip from Athens, Greece. 

Richard Simms has cruise news

  • Policy changes regarding testing across most major cruise lines 
  • Norwegian Cruise Line is changing up menus and celebrating the float-out of its next Prima-class ship
  • Carnival Cruise Line has over three million guests served 
  • Glacier Bay National Park is tightening the reins on cruise ships
  • A fishing boat hit a cruise ship in New England 

Listener Q: I have a medical condition and can not get the drink package. Can my wife get one on our Royal Caribbean cruise next summer? — Tim

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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.

Direct download: EPI707AUG0422.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A seven-night review of Princess Cruises' Regal Princess in the Med. 

Richard Simms has cruise news

  • More developments on the rock slide impacting an Alaska cruise port 
  • Another U.S. cruise line drops pre-cruise COVID-19 testing before embarkation 
  • Carnival is re-opening another dining venue after being shutdown over the summer 
  • One cruise line is celebrating a year back to service with some cool facts 
  • Virgin Voyages is coming to a TV near you

Listener Q: Does NCL now have an Unlimited Starbucks Coffee Package for purchase? 

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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.

Direct download: EPI706JUL2822.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of a 10-night cruise on Royal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas. This was a Baltic cruise from Northern Europe that was very port intensive. We get a bow-to-stern review of the cruise ship and the itinerary. 

Richard has cruise news on

  • CDC drops cruise ship program for cruise ships 
  • One cruise line takes a public approach to get more to sail while the other drops negative testing
  • Royal Caribbean Group purchases a former Crystal Cruises ship 
  • A couple spends 1,000 days on one cruise line 
  • Record cruise week in Central Florida 

Listener Question: I have a treatment booked in the spa, does this mean I'll be able to use the thermal suite that day? 

Direct download: EPI705JUL2122.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

We get a review of an eight-night southern Caribbean voyage on Carnival Freedom out of PortMiami.

Richard Simms has cruise news:

  • Carnival provides updates on crew shortages, the kids' clubs, and pre-cruise testing
  • Disney Cruise Line is increasing the recommended daily gratuity amount
  • Norwegian's PortMiami terminal has a new mural, Norwegian Sun is returning to service
  • Explora Journeys orders two additional ships

Listener Question: We are going to Bermuda this summer and keep reading that we need a health passport to get to Bermuda. Is this something that we should take care or does the cruise line satisfy it for us? — Heather

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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.

Direct download: EPI704JUL1422.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

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. 
Listener Q:  Looking at Disney Wish for our honeymoon cruise next summer. Is it really true that there's a 5,000-dollar drink onboard? And WHY? I can't be the only person fascinated by this. — Katie 
 

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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.

Direct download: EPI703JUL0722.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A 2022 review of Carnival Radiance from Long Beach, California. 

Richard has cruise news: 

  • Disney Wish has been christened in Port Canaveral, Florida 
  • Carnival Corporation releases Q2 earnings and makes money again 
  • Carnival Cruise Line debuts new food menu item, new ship entertainment team 
  • Norwegian cruise ship damaged when hitting an iceberg in Alaska 
  • Celebrity Cruises' full fleet is back in service, completing all 63 Royal Caribbean Group vessels 

Listener Q: Any idea when Carnival will bring back some of their VIFP perks? — Donna 

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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.

Direct download: EPI702JUN2922.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

A review of Discovery Princess in Alaska. Dan from TripInsurance.com answers your listener questions as the U.S. government drops restrictions on inbound COVID testings for flights. 

Direct download: EPI700JUN1622.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT

This week we get a review of Carnival Sunshine, a Sunshine-class ship that is sailing year-round from Charleston, South Carolina. This was a Bahamas cruise calling to Princess Cays and Nassau. 

Richard has cruise news on

  • Carnival Celebration details revealed 
  • Norwegian Escape sailings canceled 
  • Carnival Freedom set to return after fire 
  • Two more lines complete the restart 
  • Holland America Line ship christened in Rotterdam 
  • A bankrupt cruise line starts over 

---

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.

Direct download: EPI699JUN0922.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am EDT