Cruise week report: Suspected norovirus outbreak, new Carnival menus, Royal Caribbean WiFi, and more!

Welcome to Cruise Blog's Weekly Roundup for the week of March 6, 2026!

This is a helpful post covering everything you may have missed this week, including a suspected norovirus outbreak on a Holland America Line ship and how the US-Israeli attacks in Iran are impacting cruise itineraries. 

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Suspected norovirus outbreak hits 76 passengers on two-week cruise

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Nearly 80 people fell ill during a suspected cruise ship norovirus outbreak aboard a two-week sailing from Japan to Hong Kong. 

According to Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection (CHP), 65 passengers and 11 crew members aboard Holland America Line's Westerdam cruise ship were reported ill during the February 15, 2026, voyage. 

The "suspected norovirus outbreak" was reported to the CHP on Feb. 27. There were around 2,000 guests and 800 crew members on the two-week cruise, with 38 males and 38 females between the ages of 24 and 92 falling ill.

Read more: Suspected norovirus outbreak hits 76 passengers on two-week cruise

How the US-Israeli attacks in Iran are impacting cruises so far

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Tensions in the Middle East remain high amid the ongoing conflict that erupted over the weekend. Travelers are understandably worried, with strikes and counter-strikes continuing across the region. 

The ongoing military actions have deeply affected civilian life and travel logistics. Airlines, for example, have canceled hundreds of flights and issued travel waivers to customers. 

And although the conflict is far away from Mediterranean ports in countries like Italy and Greece, itineraries around the Arabian Gulf region have been impacted by the violence.

Read more: How the US-Israeli attacks in Iran are impacting cruises so far

How much is WiFi on Royal Caribbean?

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Although Royal Caribbean's cruise fare is more inclusive than standard hotel rooms, there are a few add-ons that cost extra. Cruise WiFi, unfortunately, is rarely included and can be surprisingly expensive. 

When budgeting for your Royal Caribbean cruise, you must account for these add-ons. While specialty dining and drink packages may not be important to you, WiFi is often considered a must-have. Without it, it is impossible to stay connected with friends and family back home while on the ship

In our recent article, we break down everything you need to know about the Royal Caribbean internet package — from the cost to money-saving tips, where you can use it, and more!

Read more: How much is WiFi on Royal Caribbean?

"It is going to be a very, very big year for food": Carnival begins testing new main dining room menus

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Carnival is preparing to make major changes to its food offerings, starting with the classic main dining room. 

Last month, the popular cruise line began testing new dining room menus aboard the Carnival Magic on sailings out of Miami, Florida. 

John Head, Carnival's Brand Ambassador, confirmed that the test is part of a broader effort to refresh and modernize the line’s dining experience.

Read more: "It is going to be a very, very big year for food": Carnival begins testing new main dining room menus

8 Hotels Near Seattle Cruise Port

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The 2025 Alaska cruise season saw 1.9 million passengers sail from Seattle, Washington, a record-breaking number for the gateway port to The Last Frontier. 

With Seattle attracting travelers from around the world, demand for a hotel near the Seattle cruise ports has surged during the spring, summer, and fall months. 

Staying nearby is convenient and makes embarkation day easier, as you don't have to worry about last-minute flight delays or cancellations derailing your long-awaited travel plans.

Read more: 8 Hotels Near Seattle Cruise Port