We share lots of cruise updates and advice on Cruise Blog, and this is a weekly roundup of everything you may have missed from this week, including major drink package changes, a debate over cell phone bans on Carnival, and the beginning of an FBI investigation into the death of cruise ship passenger.
If you are busy but want to keep up with all the helpful cruise advice we share, this is an easy-to-digest look at our recent articles.
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6 big changes coming to Carnival Cruise Line in 2025
If you're planning a Carnival cruise in 2025, you’ll want to become familiar with the upcoming changes and additions the cruise line is making.
While they won’t welcome any brand-new ships to the fleet, Carnival is making several exciting updates to enhance the guest experience, as well as some that have outraged loyal customers. For example, guests sailing on Carnival ships in 2025 for 6+ nights will have to pay more for their drink packages.
Read more: 6 big changes coming to Carnival Cruise Line in 2025
MSC Cruises makes controversial decision to overhaul its drink packages
Speaking of drink packages, MSC Cruises overhauled its beverage program for cruises sailing to the Caribbean, North America, and Pacific Ocean regions.
Instead of offering three alcoholic packages, the cruise line will reduce the number of options to one simplified plan. The Premium Extra Package costs $70 per day. Not only that but the package is capped at 15 drinks per day. However, guests can purchase additional beverages once the maximum is met.
Read more: MSC Cruises makes controversial decision to overhaul its drink packages
I took my 60-year-old dad to CocoCay for the first time. He liked the food but hated the chaotic waterpark lines
In November, Elizabeth took her 60-year-old dad to Royal Caribbean’s private island for the first time since its multi-million dollar renovation. The last time he visited CocoCay was over a decade ago!
They were excited to spend a day together on the island, and while he would return, he learned a few pointers to make the most of the day ashore. Read more about his experience below!
Three major cruise drink package changes coming in 2025
MSC isn't the only cruise line shaking things up in 2025. Carnival and Norwegian also announced changes to their drink packages.
Three major shared significant changes to their drink packages which will cost passengers more money. Though these adjustments aim to streamline the beverage experience, prioritize safety, and improve overall service, they reflect an industry-wide trend toward higher cruise costs.
Read more: Three major cruise drink package changes coming in 2025
I sailed on 11 cruises this year. This was my least favorite because of the bland food and cramped bathroom
Before this year, Elizabeth had never cruised on a ship she swore she'd never return to. Though every vacation has pros and cons, she believes the experience always has something redeeming, whether it's a great crew or fun activities.
However, her cruise aboard Carnival Elation left her feeling frustrated, and by the end of the voyage, she was excited to be disembarking in Jacksonville and heading home.
Tour of Cruise Director's Massive Cabin Is Different From Tiny Crew Cabins
Gage Griffin, a Cruise Director with Holland America Line, recently took to social media to share a glimpse at his living accommodations while at sea.
Cruise Directors like Griffin live onboard ships for multiple months during their contracts. While you'll frequently see them in guest areas, their "home away from home" is below deck where passengers can't go.
Read more: Tour of Cruise Director's Massive Cabin Is Different From Tiny Crew Cabins
I tried Bahamas cruises on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Carnival ships, and there's one I wouldn't choose again
Within the past year, Elizabeth tried cruises to the Bahamas on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Carnival ships to compare the experience.
Each line is known for something different, so she kept a positive attitude throughout her time onboard. However, while Royal Caribbean and Celebrity impressed her, Elizabeth's Bahamas cruise on Carnival was somewhat of a letdown.
Will Carnival ban cell phones on cruise ships?
One frustrated cruiser asked Carnival's Brand Ambassador whether they'd consider banning cell phones in the dining room.
The anonymous passenger said they don't allow their three children to use phones or tablets during dinner and felt that other families should adhere to similar standards on Carnival ships. Check out our blog to find out what John Heald said about the silly request.
Read more: Will Carnival ban cell phones on cruise ships?
I cruised with Disney and Royal Caribbean. Both have their strengths, but you get more for your money with the latter
Growing up, Elizabeth cruised with Royal Caribbean and Disney but was unaware of the difference in pricing. As an adult, she's become more conscious about seeking the best value for cruise vacations.
This year, she sailed on two of Royal Caribbean's and Disney's oldest ships to compare their offerings. Though the price point was similar, she found that Royal Caribbean offered the best overall value.
FBI investigating death of cruise ship passenger who allegedly attacked crew and threatened passengers
A Royal Caribbean passenger died after being detained by cruise ship security following a violent tantrum onboard Navigator of the Seas. His family claims he was injected with a sedative and passed away within an hour.
Laura Eimiller, a spokesperson for the FBI's Los Angeles field office, confirmed that the FBI is investigating the incident.
5 things I learned will change how I cruise in 2025
Elizabeth considers herself a seasoned traveler and cruiser. However, this year pushed her to new limits, with each voyage presenting its own challenges and rewards.
Though every cruise was a win in its own way, she learned valuable lessons that will change how she cruises in the future. Check out her article about the 5 things she learned in 2025!
Read more: 5 things I learned will change how I cruise in 2025
Couple forced to pay $10k bill for medical emergency on cruise ship sparked debate over travel insurance
Travel insurance is important for more than just protecting against lost luggage or flight delays, especially for trips like cruises.
In a Reddit post titled, "Appendix burst on honeymoon!" user jellocore explained how they were forced to spend $10k on emergency medical bills while on their honeymoon cruise because they didn't purchase insurance.
I took 3 Carnival cruises this year. One was by far the best, and it's not even close
In 2024, Allie sailed on three different Carnival ships: Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Sunshine, and Carnival Valor. These vastly different cruise vessels represent three distinct eras of Carnival's long history in the cruise industry.
Any cruise has its pros and cons. Nothing is ever perfect when traveling, which highlights the importance of realistic expectations and flexibility; however, she found the experiences to range from impressively spectacular to disappointedly subpar.
Read more: I took 3 Carnival cruises this year. One was by far the best, and it's not even close
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Growing up, she had the privilege of traveling frequently with her family and fell in love with cruising after sailing on the Oasis of the Seas her freshman year of high school. She wanted to pursue a career that highlighted her passion for travel and strengths as a writer.
