We share a lot of cruise updates and advice on Cruise Blog, and this is a weekly roundup of everything you may have missed from this week, including Carnival's new partnership and a frequently overlooked cruise cabin you should book.
For busy bees who want to stay updated on all the helpful cruise advice we share, this is an easy-to-digest overview of our recent articles.
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Cruise passenger dies after fatal jet ski accident at Carnival's private island
An unidentified female cruise passenger died after a fatal jet ski accident at Carnival's private island, Half Moon Cay, in the Bahamas.
According to Eye Witness News, an investigation is underway following the tragic accident that took place on March 22, 2025.
Police in Eleuthera were contacted by the island's manager shortly after 1:00pm. Once they arrived on Half Moon Cay, the officers conducted an initial investigation that revealed the British/Czechoslovakian national allegedly lost control of her jet ski and collided with a rock.
Read more: Cruise passenger dies after fatal jet ski accident at Carnival's private island
I've taken over 20 cruises in inside and balcony cabins, but I think there's a better option
Elizabeth has been cruising for two decades and has sailed on over 20 ships. However, it wasn't until recently that she stayed in a frequently overlooked cruise cabin.
Most cruisers are die-hard fans of balcony staterooms. While having a private verandah is undoubtedly a huge perk, they aren't the most affordable cabins onboard. Similarly, though interior staterooms are often the cheapest option, they lack natural sunlight and are usually the smallest cabins on a cruise ship.
Enter the ocean-view stateroom. In her opinion, these cabins offer the perfect balance between price and comfort. You can wake up to a generous dose of natural light and ocean views without breaking the bank!
Read more: I've taken over 20 cruises in inside and balcony cabins, but I think there's a better option
Passenger thanked crew member with money. The extra tip started a debate
One cruise passenger unknowingly started a huge debate over tipping cabin stewards in cash.
John Heald, Carnival's Facebook-famous Brand Ambassador, took to the popular website to ask how other guests felt about giving crew members money as a tip. "Poll time. Things that I have been asked today," he begins, "Spelling thank you out in money."
30% of respondents indicated they have no problem with other passengers writing out "thank you" in cash, believing any extra tip is appreciated. Though a smaller number of Facebook users selected the poll option stating that spreading money on the bed is "demeaning" for the crew, many called out the controversial action in the comments.
Read more: Passenger thanked crew member with money. The extra tip started a debate
Carnival makes a major change to its dining menu
It's no surprise that cruise lines have been making cuts over the past few years. Royal Caribbean, for example, no longer offers twice-daily housekeeping in standard cabins.
Sometimes, supply chain issues might also mean a beloved favorite is unavailable or replaced. For instance, last year, reports were circling that Royal Caribbean and Celebrity were replacing the popular triangle hash browns! However, they're still available on certain ships.
Recently, one passenger called out Carnival Cruise Line for removing fresh fruit from its fleet of "FUN" ships.
Read more: Carnival makes a major change to its dining menu
Teen passenger molested on Royal Caribbean cruise ship, two suspects arrested
Two passengers sailing on Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas were arrested after being accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old boy.
Ricardo Daniel Mondragon Leal, 37, and Jose Prudencio Diaz, 36, of Mexico City were arrested in Miami, Florida, on Friday, March 21, on multiple criminal charges, including lewd and lascivious molestation of a child.
According to arrest reports from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, the crimes happened on Thursday, Mar. 20, in the ship's sauna, Miami Local 10 News reported.
Read more: Teen passenger molested on Royal Caribbean cruise ship, two suspects arrested
What Is Free at Perfect Day at CocoCay?
When people think of Royal Caribbean's private island, they often envision the massive waterpark, hot air balloon, overwater cabanas, and zipline. While Perfect Day at CocoCay has a slew of activities for cruisers to enjoy, not all of them are included in the cost of your cruise.
Thankfully, it's easy to plan a fun and relaxing day ashore without spending extra money. Unlike other ports of call, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers free activities and amenities that will keep you entertained while still sticking to your budget.
For example, did you know that there are free dining options ashore? Whether you want a quick snack or a traditional beachside BBQ, you can enjoy a bite to eat while on the island, instead of packing up to return to the ship for lunch.
Read more: What Is Free at Perfect Day at CocoCay?
I tried MSC Cruises for a cheap, 4-day getaway. I loved the food, but hated the nickel-and-diming
What is it really like to take a cheap, 4-day cruise with MSC Cruises?
Jenna shared the story of Jackie and her husband Joe, who recently embarked on a 4-night MSC cruise. They wanted to escape Ohio's frigid winter, so when the couple came across a cheap, last-minute cruise fare, they didn't hesitate to book the sailing.
For $970 total, they sailed in a balcony cabin on MSC Seashore, one of the cruise line’s most modern ships. Jackie and Joe experienced a lot in 4 days, whether visiting MSC’s private island or trying new foods in the dining room.
Read more: I tried MSC Cruises for a cheap, 4-day getaway. I loved the food, but hated the nickel-and-diming
What does Carnival Cruise Line do with all its uneaten food?
Cruise ships have to feed thousands of people on any given sailing. As such, it's not uncommon to hear concerns about food waste.
From the Lido Marketplace buffet to the Main Dining Room and fast-casual spots like BlueIguana Cantina and Guy's Burger Joint, plenty of dining options on a Carnival cruise offer generous portions and variety to appease different taste buds.
Carnival, like many other cruise lines, strives to reduce its waste and negative environmental impact through various initiatives. For example, did you know all Carnival ships have biodigesters, which naturally break down and responsibly dispose of 80% of uneaten food onboard?
Read more: What does Carnival Cruise Line do with all its uneaten food?
Royal Caribbean abruptly bans popular electronic device
Royal Caribbean has quietly banned personal speakers from its private island in the Bahamas.
Passengers on Icon of the Seas' March 15 cruise from Miami, Florida, reported seeing a new tip on the Cruise Compass advising guests not to bring personal speakers ashore on Perfect Day at CocoCay.
The notice reads, "Glass bottles and personal speakers are not permitted on the island."
Read more: Royal Caribbean abruptly bans popular electronic device
Passenger who smuggled illegal drugs on a cruise ship faces life in prison
One passenger was recently charged after a cruise ship docked in Sydney, Australia, and over 20 pounds of cocaine was discovered in his stateroom.
The 48-year-old Brazilian national hid the drugs in the ceiling cavity of his cabin, according to the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
When the Australian Border Force (ABF) searched his stateroom, they found 28 individually wrapped packages of a substance that tested positive for cocaine.
Read more: Passenger who smuggled illegal drugs on a cruise ship faces life in prison
Carnival Cruise Line unveils an unusual partnership
Carnival, one of the most popular cruise lines in the world, teamed up with Wyndham Rewards to make earning points on fun-filled cruise vacations easier than before.
Starting March 25, Wyndham Rewards members can book Carnival vacations through Wyndham Travel Bundles, making it easier to plan everything from flights to pre-cruise hotel stays and excursions while earning Wyndham Rewards points for future trips.
Members earn one Wyndham Rewards point per dollar on all cruise bundles, airfare, car rentals, and airport transfers, as well as up to 10 points per dollar on qualifying hotel stays and activities. Plus, Wyndham offers a special discount on the cruise fare, helping reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
Read more: Carnival Cruise Line unveils an unusual partnership
Royal Caribbean makes a major change to a convenient VIP perk
Royal Caribbean removed one of the free perks of its extra-cost VIP program.
The Key is an optional add-on that passengers can purchase for exclusive benefits like a private embarkation lunch, reserved seating during theater shows, priority tender access, and more.
However, an update was sent to guests who bought The Key to let them know one of the best features was dropped. Previously, The Key included complimentary private time for the FlowRider, the onboard surf simulator. Now, guests with The Key will receive a 25% discount on select sports activities.
Read more: Royal Caribbean makes a major change to a convenient VIP perk
First photos: Inside Norwegian Aqua, the impressive new cruise ship from Norwegian
Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest cruise ship, Norwegian Aqua, has officially set sail in Europe. As the first vessel in Norwegian’s brand-new Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Aqua incorporates modern luxury with bold innovation and boundary-pushing thrills.
Norwegian Aqua is a major evolution for the cruise line, featuring an enhanced design, cutting-edge amenities, and one-of-a-kind onboard attractions. One of the ship’s standout features is the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide on a cruise ship.
Here’s a first look at Norwegian’s newest ship from photos taken by Michaela Freehand and shared on the Facebook page, NCL AQUA 2025.
Read more: First photos: Inside Norwegian Aqua, the impressive new cruise ship from Norwegian
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 traveled frequently with her family and fell in love with cruising after sailing on the Oasis of the Seas during her freshman year of high school. Having sailed on nearly 30 cruises across different lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, and Princess, she loves sharing her insight and expertise on all things cruising!
