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

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

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

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

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. 

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. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 

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

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

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

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

A review of a Caribbean sailing aboard Scarlet Lady. 

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

 

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.

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

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

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 

 

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 

 

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 

 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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:

• www.cruisedirectorkabir.com
• www.instagram.com/kabirbageria
• www.twitter.com/kabirbageria
• www.youtube.com/c/travelwithkabircd

 

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 

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

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 

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.

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.'

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. 

 

Review of Carnival Pride in Northern Europe and the Baltic. 

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

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

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. 

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

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

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 

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

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.

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 

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

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

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 

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?

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 

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

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

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

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 

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. 

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 

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 

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 

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? 

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 

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 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 

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. 

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 

This week we get a review of Celebrity Reflection. 

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Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

A review of Holland America Line's 2016 built ms Koningsdam from San Diego, California. This was a California Coastal cruise with a stop in Ensenada, Mexico. 

Richard has cruise news on: 

• Could Carnival Corporation offload Seabourn Cruises? 
• Two cruise ships are for sale in The Bahamas 
• Norwegian Cruise Line has staffing issues on one ship and redeploys another 
• A full return to service for Royal Caribbean International 
• Carnival Cruise Line sees two-million guests since the cruise industry restart 

Listener Question: Can I use a birth certificate to board a cruise ship? 

XXXX

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

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

A review of Carnival Cruise Line's last Vista-class ship, Carnival Panorama. This was a seven-night cruise from Long Beach, California, to Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan, Mexico. We get a comprehensive review of the cruise ship, dining onboard, and ports of call down in the Mexican Riviera.  Richard Simms has cruise news: 

• Australia has reopened its cruise industry 
• Grand Cayman drops cruise ship restrictions 
• Jimmy Buffett's cruise ship is being converted to a Margaritaville at Sea 
• Self-serve buffets are back on Royal Caribbean 
• Norwegian Escape returns to service 
• Another drug bust on MSC Seaside in Europe

This week we get a review of Celebrity Constellation. This was an 11-night cruise from Tampa, Florida to the Caribbean and Central America.

We get a full review of the ship, the destinations, and what Kirk and his wife thought of a longer-than-normal cruise. 

Richard Simms has cruise news on: 

• Cruising is back for Canada and Alaska
• Royal Caribbean cuts steel for one ship and names the next vessel 
• Prices are on the increase at Carnival Cruise Line 
• Another Fantasy-class ship scrapped 
• 10 guests on MSC Seaside were busted for transporting drugs 

Listener Q: What are the requirements for iFly on Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas? 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

We get a review of Disney Dream. This was a three-night cruise from Port Canaveral to Nassau, Bahamas, and the private island Castaway Cay. 

Dan Skilken from TripInsurance.com drops by discussing the importance of travel insurance over the past few months, including the Crystal Cruises' bankruptcy, Norwegian Escape running aground, CDC lifting cruise travel advisory, and canceling an Eastern European vacation because of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. 

A review of Carnival Cruise Line's Miami-based Carnival Sunrise. This vessel used to be Carnival Triumph before a $200 million refurbishment in 2019. The five-night cruise stopped in Ocho Rios and Bimini Island before returning to PortMiami.  ---

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

A review of Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Richard has cruise news: 

• The CDC lowers the cruise travel health warning
• Norwegian Escape cancels voyage mid-cruise after running aground
• Australia is returning to cruising in April 2022 
• Princess Cruises adds two more U.S. homeports this year 
• Carnival Cruise Line wraps its 50th birthday with a giant party on Carnival Conquest

Listener Question: Was your cruise on Norwegian Getaway free? 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

In this week’s episode, we speak with Adam about his five-night Mariner of the Seas voyage out of Port Canaveral in December 2021. He discusses his cabin, the ship’s food and entertainment, and what he did at Royal Caribbean’s private island Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Richard has cruise news:

• Norwegian details upcoming cruise ship
• Carnival's 50th anniversary meet up 
• MSC goes year-round in NYC 
• Carnival Spirit and Carnival Esctasy return to service
• Allure of the Seas goes to three- and four-night sailings in 2023 

Listener Question: What is cruising like in 2022?

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

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?  

Marc and his family recently returned from a six-night New Year's Eve cruise aboard Carnival Miracle from Long Beach, Califonia. This cruise went down to Cabo and Ensenada. We get a comprehensive review of the ship, what he thought of the food, the condition of the vessel, and his overall thoughts of this Carnival Miracle cruise. 

Richard has cruise news on: 

• CDC drops cruise travel warning down one level
• Crystal Cruises hangs it up after 30 years 
• Smoking in the casinos are back for Carnival Cruise Line 
• Virgin Voyages opens its new terminal in PortMiami 
• Most 2023 Norwegian Sky sailings go dark

Listener Q: What is a Carnival Sailabration cruise and are they still available to book? 

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 

A Sky Princess review is on deck this week with Marc. This was his very first Princess sailing and it won't be his last. The ship sailed from Port Everglades on a seven-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary with stops in Princess Cays, Nassau, Amber Cove, and Grand Turk. 

Richard Simms has cruise news: 

• A cruise ship on the run 
• Carnival opens bookings for new ship 
• Virgin Voyages is already doing a cabin refresh 
• COVID tests could soon be $10 on Carnival 
• Carnival doubles down on COVID protocols with masks, testing, and vaccinated-only sailings 

Listener Question: Will Carnival Cruise Line require a booster shot? 

 

 

We talk with Isaiah about his recent seven-night cruise aboard Carnival Magic out of Port Canaveral, Florida. He goes over his experience in a balcony cabin for the first time, the food and entertainment onboard, and his time in the ports on this eastern Caribbean itinerary.

Richard has cruise news on: 

•  The CDC has let the Conditional Sailing Order expire
• Crystal Crusies' parent company has filed for bankruptcy 
• Norwegian changes its Free at Sea program 
• Royal Caribbean debuts a new venue on Wonder of the Seas 
• Celebrity is delaying the return of a west coast ship, and canceling a Mediterranean season for one ship
• Mardi Gras cruise director takes a promotion 

Listener question: I signed up for the free testing kit the the United States Postal Service is sending out. Will that test work for my pre-cruise testing requirement? — Billy 

 

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net 

Chad chats with us about his recent sailing aboard MSC Cruises' new ship MSC Seashore. He discusses his stay in the vessel's ship-within-a-ship complex The Yacht Club, as well as his experience with other dining, activities, and entertainment around the ship.

Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net