We are always sharing the latest cruise news, tips, and advice on Cruise.Blog, and this roundup is your chance to catch up on anything you might’ve missed.
This week, we covered everything from Netflix's new documentary about the infamous Carnival "poop cruise" to which cruise line is starting to charge parents for reservations to the kids' club.
Want it sent straight to your inbox? Sign up for our convenient Cruise.Blog Newsletter to never miss an update!
Carnival’s infamous "poop cruise" ship is still in service — but under a different name
Carnival Cruise Line has faced intense backlash this week after making unpopular changes to its loyalty program. However, with the release of Netflix's new documentary on June 24, 2025, the criticism shows no signs of slowing down.
Trainwreck: Poop Cruise recounts the infamous disaster aboard Carnival Triumph in 2013. What was supposed to be a short 4-night sailing from Galveston, Texas, to Cozumel, Mexico, turned into a nightmare after guests were awoken one morning by an emergency alert for the "alpha team."
The end of the documentary shocked many long-term cruisers who didn't know Carnival Triumph was still in service under her new name: Carnival Sunrise.
Read more: Carnival’s infamous "poop cruise" ship is still in service — but under a different name
I tried the cheapest WiFi on my cruise ship. I had some issues, but it was better than I thought
Elizabeth recently decided to disconnect for the week and save money, purchasing the cheapest internet package on her 7-night Celebrity cruise.
When she and her partner booked their cruise to Norway, Celebrity's basic wi-fi package was included in the bundled fare pricing, along with the line's classic drink package. They decided to upgrade to the premium drink package but didn't want to pay for two premium internet packages. Instead, they paid just under $50 to upgrade one of them.
Although they noticed a difference between the premium and basic connection speeds, she's glad they didn't pay to upgrade both. The basic WiFi was sufficient for simple internet browsing, checking her email, and chatting with friends and family back home.
Read more: I tried the cheapest WiFi on my cruise ship. I had some issues, but it was better than I thought
Cruise line now charging for kids’ club reservations sparks debate
With everything from accommodations to food and even childcare included in the cost of a cruise vacation, they're a popular choice for families. However, one cruise line plans to start charging for reservations to its youth club.
P&O Cruises, a British cruise line owned by Carnival Corporation, will require parents to pay a nominal fee to guarantee their child's spot at the onboard kids' club, "The Reef," for children 12 and under.
Supposedly, the change is meant to provide families with more certainty about availability and ensure that kids who are signed up have a spot, especially during peak times.
Read more: Cruise line now charging for kids’ club reservations sparks debate
1 simple trick for a common cruise cabin problem
Between being in a different environment and external stimuli like creaking walls and a rocking ship, it can be tough to unwind in a cruise cabin.
Thankfully, there are a few ways to improve your sleep on a ship. One simple trick you can try is removing the hangers from your closet.
Hangers clashing together can be disruptive when trying to sleep, especially on itineraries more prone to rough waters. By removing empty hangers, you will notice less noise at night.
Read more: 1 simple trick for a common cruise cabin problem
Last minute cruise cancellation serves as a warning to avoid these itineraries
Passengers sailing aboard Carnival Liberty's July 6, 2025, cruise out of New Orleans, Louisiana, were informed that the voyage has been canceled — but not for bad weather or maintenance issues.
According to Carnival Cruise Line, the sailing was unexpectedly canceled due to a workers' strike at the Navantia shipyard in Spain.
It can be exciting to be one of the first passengers on a refreshed ship; however, booking a sailing right after a dry dock comes with risks.
Read more: Last minute cruise cancellation serves as a warning to avoid these itineraries
I spent $2,400 on cruise drink packages in the last year. Here's why I don't plan on stopping
Over the past 12 months, Elizabeth has taken five cruises and spent $2,400 on drink packages — and she has no regrets. Cruise drink packages are expensive, but they're not always a smart investment. Personally, though, she has found that cruising without a drink package feels limiting.
She hates constantly keeping an eye on her onboard statement when she is supposed to be relaxing. Instead, she has learned to include packages in her budget for each voyage.
As a result? She's been able to try new cocktails that she wouldn't normally order, kickstart her day with specialty lattes, and hydrate with premium bottled water.
Read more: I spent $2,400 on cruise drink packages in the last year. Here's why I don't plan on stopping
7 things cruisers do that instantly give away they’re new
Taking your first cruise is an exciting milestone. Although it's easy to make a few rookie mistakes, nobody's first voyage is ever perfect. Believe it or not, it's easier to spot a novice cruiser than you think. Certain behaviors tend to instantly give them away.
These small, telltale signs separate first-timers from experienced sailors who know the ins and outs of a cruise vacation. Don't worry, though — every seasoned cruiser had to start somewhere!
The good news is that with some preparation and awareness, you can act like a veteran cruiser, even if it's your first time on a cruise ship!
Read more: 7 things cruisers do that instantly give away they’re new
Cruise shore excursions: What are they, and what are the best ways to book them?
Shore excursions are available on every cruise itinerary, from 3-night Bahamas getaways to 16-night Transatlantic voyages.
Although many people see the ship as a destination, the ports of call are just as important. Some cruisers even choose specific sailings just for the itinerary! As such, it's crucial to have a strong understanding of shore excursions, so you can plan the most memorable day ashore.
Shore excursions vary widely in terms of activity level, duration, and price. Knowing what to expect ahead of time is key when planning your cruise.
Read more: Cruise shore excursions: What are they and what are the best ways to book them?
How the Israel-Iran conflict is impacting cruises so far
Tensions in the Middle East remain high after the uncertainty of the ceasefire declared by President Trump. Travelers are understandably worried, especially as several countries have closed their airspace, leading to disrupted flight plans.
With the conflict far enough away from ports in countries like Italy, Greece, and Turkey, cruisers likely don't have much to worry about. That said, cruise operators are remaining vigilant and will make any necessary changes as the geopolitical situation continues to unfold to ensure passenger and crew safety.
During Carnival Corporation's Q2 earnings call on Tuesday, June 24, C.E.O. Josh Weinstein gave a brief statement about the company's position.
Read more: How the Israel-Iran conflict is impacting cruises so far
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 over 30 cruises across different lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, Margaritaville at Sea, and Princess, she loves sharing her insight and expertise on all things cruising!
