Welcome to Cruise Blog's Weekly Roundup for the week of February 20, 2026!
This is a helpful post covering everything you may have missed this week, including a cruise ship fire that broke out early on Friday, February 20, and a sudden dress code change aboard Norwegian Cruise Line.
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Cruise ship fire leaves 1 dead and 4 hospitalized
At least one person died during a sudden cruise ship fire on a vessel en route to Singapore, with another four hospitalized.
The incident happened at around 4:00 a.m. local time on Friday, Feb. 20, aboard the Liberia-registered World Legacy ship, according to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA).
Preliminary findings reveal that the fire broke out in the lounge area of Deck 9, the MPA shared. Investigations, however, are ongoing.
Read more: Cruise ship fire leaves 1 dead and 4 hospitalized
11 Hotels Near Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal With Shuttle Service
Port Canaveral attracts travelers from around the world, many of whom choose to stay at nearby pre-cruise hotels to avoid missing their ship due to last-minute flight mishaps.
While it's easy to arrange your own transportation to the cruise port, some prefer staying at a hotel that offers convenient shuttle services.
In our recent article, we rounded up the best hotels near the Port Canaveral cruise terminal with shuttle services, starting with hotels that also offer transportation from the Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Read more: 11 Hotels Near Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal With Shuttle Service
I spent 5 days on Celebrity Reflection. Here's my full review of the Solstice Class cruise ship
Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned pro, Celebrity remains a popular choice for travelers who want an upscale getaway. Compared to its sister line, Royal Caribbean, the focus strays from adrenaline-pumping attractions and toward a more refined experience that's centered around world-class dining, craft cocktail bars, and sleek design.
In 2024, Elizabeth embarked on a short getaway aboard Celebrity Reflection to The Bahamas and Mexico. Although she isn't the newest ship in Celebrity's fleet, Celebrity Reflection left a lasting impression on her.
Measuring 125,336 gross tons with a passenger capacity of 3,046 at double occupancy, Celebrity Reflection's size is smaller than the line's award-winning flagship Edge Class ships. That said, those who prefer a more intimate cruise experience will appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and fewer crowds.
Read more: I spent 5 days on Celebrity Reflection. Here's my full review of the Solstice Class cruise ship
Margaritaville at Sea Drink Menu and Prices
Compared to other mainstream cruise lines, Margaritaville is more wallet-friendly. While the fares aren't all-inclusive, the essentials — including accommodations, dining, select beverages, entertainment, and more — are covered.
Still, guests can choose to splurge on add-ons like specialty dining, excursions, and premium drink packages to make the experience feel more inclusive.
If you aren't a big drinker and can't justify the daily price of the Margaritaville cruise drink package, you might be wondering what the à la carte drink prices are.
Read more: Margaritaville at Sea Drink Menu and Prices
Liberty of the Seas Rooms to Avoid
Choosing the right cabin can make all the difference when planning your Royal Caribbean cruise. For example, some staterooms are larger than others, while some are located near noisy public venues.
If you don't do your research, you'll discover just how easy it is to end up with a bad cruise room. While Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class vessels are no longer the largest at sea, they still feature an impressive selection of cabins, ranging from standard inside rooms to multi-room suites.
As such, there's the ideal cruise cabin for every type of traveler on Liberty of the Seas — if you know exactly what you're looking for and what to steer clear of.
Read more: Liberty of the Seas Rooms to Avoid
This cruise line confused its passengers with a sudden new dress code
One popular mainstream cruise line quietly updated its policies to tighten the dress code at a few of its onboard restaurants.
Now, casual attire — including flip-flops and shorts — is not permitted in certain specialty restaurants aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet.
It's important to note that the updated cruise dress code only applies to those five restaurants. No major changes were made to what passengers can wear in the other casual dining venues, including O'Sheehan's, the Indulge Food Hall, and the buffet.
Read more: This cruise line confused its passengers with a sudden new dress code
Carnival Cruise Line launches an "Ultimate Value Package"
Carnival Cruise Line just extended a popular deal that could save you money on pricey add-ons.
If you have an upcoming cruise booked, you may be wondering how to save money on Carnival's pricey CHEERS! Drink Package or Premium Wi-Fi Plan. While the cruise line doesn't offer pre-cruise sales to the same degree as Royal Caribbean or Celebrity, a new promotion could save you over $30 per person, per day.
The Essentials Value Package and Ultimate Value Package are available for purchase through February 24, 2026, and are valid on sailings departing from Feb. 28, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2026.
Read more: Carnival Cruise Line launches an "Ultimate Value Package"
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. 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!
In addition to writing for Cruise.Blog, Elizabeth has bylines in Business Insider, Royal Caribbean Blog, and Cruiseshipfood.com.
