Cruise Radio: Weekly Cruise News & Travel Tips

We break down the biggest cruise news stories of the week, including Carnival Cruise Line revealing its next-generation Carnival Destiny, a teacher fired from her school district for booking cruises around cheaper sailings, the latest Ruby Princess illness outbreak, Royal Caribbean's cruise port setback near Rome, and why an LGBTQ charter cruise aboard Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady was denied entry to ports in Turkey and Egypt. Later in the episode, listener Maureen shares her review of a five-night Celebrity Summit cruise sailing from Port Everglades to Key West and Nassau. She discusses Concierge Class, dining, entertainment, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, and whether Celebrity Summit is still one of the best values in premium cruising. Cruise News This Week Carnival announces Carnival Destiny, the first ACE Class ship UK school principal banned after changing school schedules to book cheaper cruises LGBTQ charter aboard Virgin Voyages denied entry to Turkey and Egypt Royal Caribbean's proposed Rome cruise port faces environmental setback Second illness outbreak reported aboard Ruby Princess Virgin Voyages spa employee charged after alleged onboard assaults Cruise Question of the Week: Are slot pulls worth joining? Celebrity Summit Review Embarkation at Port Everglades Concierge Class balcony review Oceanview Café and Main Dining Room La Petite Chef specialty dining Entertainment and nightlife Non-smoking casino Key West jet ski excursion Royal Beach Club Paradise Island review Crew service Is Celebrity Summit worth booking? Share your thoughts: [email protected]  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Doug Parker interviews Chris, who recently returned from a 10-night Southern Caribbean cruise aboard Princess Cruises' Enchanted Princess, sailing roundtrip from Port Everglades. Chris shares why Enchanted Princess is his favorite cruise ship, discussing the Princess Premier package, specialty dining, entertainment, and the ship's relaxed atmosphere. He also reviews ports including Princess Cays, St. Thomas, Dominica, Barbados, Martinique, and Antigua, highlighting the Titou Gorge and Hot Springs excursion in Dominica as the standout experience. Chris recommends this itinerary for cruisers looking to visit less-common Southern Caribbean islands while enjoying Princess Cruises' classic onboard experience. Share your thoughts: [email protected]  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Doug Parker interviews Jan, who recently completed a 16-night repositioning cruise aboard Explorer Journeys' Explorer One, sailing from Barcelona to Miami. Jan shares his enthusiasm for the cruise line, highlighting the exceptional food, spacious suites, inclusive amenities, and intimate atmosphere. He describes memorable ports including Cadiz, Madeira, Antigua, Tortola, and San Juan, along with standout onboard experiences like enrichment lectures and a culinary cooking class. Jan recommends Explorer Journeys as outstanding value for travelers seeking a luxury experience without ultra-luxury pricing. Share your thoughts: [email protected]  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Celebrity Solstice review and this week's cruise news. Steven shares his experience aboard Celebrity Solstice on a 16-night transpacific cruise from Sydney to Honolulu. We discuss the ship's renovation, dining, entertainment, sea days, ports of call in New Caledonia, Fiji, Samoa, and American Samoa, plus crossing the Equator and International Date Line. We also talk about an onboard power outage and Coast Guard medical evacuation that happened near the end of the voyage. Cruise Radio staff writer Richard Simms covers this week's headlines: • River cruise fire in France • Sun Princess overnight fire scare • Celebration Key expansion • Carnival crew member honored as a hero • Ruby Princess norovirus outbreak • Frank Del Rio's $18 million lawsuit Share your thoughts: [email protected]  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Corey joins Doug to share his review of a five-night cruise aboard Carnival Sunrise from Miami, featuring visits to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key. Taking advantage of a casino offer, Corey and his girlfriend booked an interior stateroom for her first cruise and explored everything from Carnival's newest private destinations to the ship's specialty dining venues. They discuss Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi, Cucina del Capitano, the Chef's Table experience, Carnival's new Bagels at Sea concept, and the overall food quality onboard. The conversation also covers entertainment, casino offers, crowd levels on a smaller Carnival ship, and how Carnival Sunrise compares to newer ships sailing today. Corey shares his thoughts on the grand reopening of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, his experience at Pearl Cove Beach Club at Celebration Key, and why he believes the combination of Carnival's two private destinations creates one of the strongest beach-focused itineraries in the Caribbean. In This Episode: Carnival Sunrise interior stateroom review Bagels at Sea and onboard dining Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse Chef's Table experience Nassau shore excursion RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay reopening Celebration Key and Pearl Cove Beach Club Carnival casino offers Tips for first-time Carnival Sunrise cruisers Share your thoughts: [email protected]  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009. Share your thoughts: [email protected]

A review of Icon of the Seas.  Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. This week, we cover a record-setting day in Nassau as more than 33,000 cruise passengers arrived in port, ongoing chaos in Santorini as a controversial passenger distribution rule triggers another shutdown, and the tragic death of a pregnant fin whale believed to have been struck by Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas near Seward, Alaska. We also discuss Royal Caribbean's decision to allow suite guests to bring non-suite friends into Coastal Kitchen for a fee, a massive brawl at PortMiami that resulted in 16 Carnival passengers being permanently banned from the cruise line, and Carnival's new limited-edition Bulleit single-barrel bourbon being sold aboard select ships as part of America's 250th anniversary celebration. Michael and Tiffany return to Cruise Radio to share their review of a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. Sailing from Miami, they discuss what it was like experiencing one of the world's largest cruise ships and whether the hype lives up to reality. The couple shares their thoughts on the ship's layout, dining, entertainment, and crowd management, including why the vessel never felt crowded despite carrying more than 7,000 guests. They discuss favorites like Pearl Café, Giovanni's Italian Kitchen, Hooked Seafood, the AquaTheater production, and Royal Caribbean's adults-only Hideaway areas both onboard and at Perfect Day at CocoCay. They also talk about their visits to St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay, along with tips for navigating the ship, finding quiet spaces, and deciding whether Icon of the Seas is worth the premium price. In This Episode: Cruise news Icon of the Seas balcony stateroom review Pearl Cafe and included dining options Giovanni's Italian Kitchen and Hooked Seafood AquaTheater, ice show, and Wizard of Oz production St. Maarten and Maho Beach St. Thomas port day changes Hideaway Beach at Perfect Day at CocoCay Crowd levels on a 7,000+ passenger ship Tips for first-time Icon of the Seas cruisers Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009. Share your thoughts: [email protected]

Marcus joins Doug to review a 7-night cruise aboard Marella Voyager, sailing roundtrip from Tenerife to the Canary Islands and Madeira. In this episode, he shares his experience aboard the former Celebrity Mercury, including an upgrade to an Executive Suite, dining at the ship's included and specialty restaurants, entertainment, and what it's like sailing on Marella Cruises for the first time. He also discusses visits to Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Madeira, and La Palma, along with tips for embarking in Tenerife and navigating this port-intensive itinerary. Topics Discussed: Marella Voyager Executive Suite Dining and specialty restaurants The all-inclusive cruise experience Entertainment and onboard atmosphere Canary Islands ports of call Madeira highlights Embarkation and debarkation in Tenerife How Marella compares to Princess and Celebrity Cruise Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009. Share your thoughts: [email protected]  

A review of Norwegian Luna.  We cover recent cruise news, including the Anna Kepner murder case aboard Carnival Horizon, a video voyeurism arrest on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas, a brawl at Nassau Cruise Pier, a $1.9 billion lawsuit against MSC Cruises, and new dining announcements from Carnival and Holland America. Tony shares a detailed review of his seven-night family cruise aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's brand-new Prima class ship, the Norwegian Luna, highlighting dining, entertainment, ports of call, including a stop at the newly renovated Great Stirrup Cay, and gives us his overall impressions. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

We cover major cruise news, including American cruise passengers arrested in Nassau, a foiled plot to bomb a cruise ship in Greece, a lawsuit against Royal Caribbean, updates on Perfect Day Mexico, and the delivery of Legend of the Seas. Richard also answers a listener question about casino bounce-back offers. The episode features a detailed review of the Majestic Princess by first-time cruiser Chris, who shares details including his inaugural cruise out of Port Everglades, how good the dining on board was, scuba diving in Cozumel, and Mayan ruins in Belize. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Doug chats with guest Tom about his three-night solo cruise aboard Celebrity Reflection, visiting Key West and Nassau. Tom shares his experience as a first-time Celebrity and solo cruiser, covering the smooth embarkation process, his interior stateroom, buffet and specialty dining highlights, and diverse entertainment options. He compares Celebrity favorably to other cruise lines, noting its calm, upscale atmosphere. Tom also offers practical tips for solo travelers, recommending short cruises as a starting point and encouraging passengers to engage socially onboard. We also feature a segment about travel insurance with Dan Skilken, President of TripInsurance.com. Dan discusses its importance for cruise travelers, what to look for in a policy, what "cancel-for-any-reason" travel insurance really means, and tips for making sure you have adequate coverage for your trip. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Doug Parker covers major cruise industry news, including Norwegian Viva's canceled San Juan sailings and a worker strike disrupting Royal Caribbean ports in Costa Maya, a heroic passenger rescue at Costa Maya and a mile long cruise ship.  Brand Ambassador John Heald discusses Carnival's new Relax Away section at Half Moon Cay, highlighting the new pier, free beach chairs, and natural surroundings. Kevin reviews Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas, praising its suite experience, dining, and ports while noting it lacks some newer ships' amenities. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.  

A review of Norwegian Gem on a five night Bahamas cruise from Jacksonville, Florida.  Staff writer Richard has cruise news. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of Carnival Vista. Doug Parker covers cruise industry news with staff writer Richard Simms, including a Carnival Corporation data breach, Costa Cruises' controversial 60 euro fee for removing food from a dining venue, a fake Carnival alcohol notice circulating online, Norwegian's new Great Stirrup Cay water park ticket sales, and a propulsion issue affecting Oasis of the Seas. A listener's question gets answered about Manhattan disembarkation timing. Andrew reviews his six-night Caribbean voyage aboard Carnival Vista, and talks all about the dining, ports of call, entertainment, and tips for solo travelers. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Sims discuss major cruise news, including Mexico blocking Royal Caribbean's second Perfect Day destination, a Carnival Spirit assault case resulting in lifetime bans, a hantavirus quarantine situation, incidents aboard Norwegian Luna and Enchanted Princess, and Carnival's new bow crest design. Michael shares his seven-night Alaska cruise experience aboard Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas, covering embarkation, dining, entertainment, port adventures in Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, and Victoria, and practical travel tips for sailing in Alaska. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

This week we cover major cruise industry news, including Carnival's pricing error controversy, an assault incident aboard Carnival Spirit, hantavirus and norovirus outbreaks affecting multiple ships, a tragic mobility scooter accident at Celebration Key, and Disney Adventure's abrupt canceled sailing in Singapore.  We also talk to Tony who took a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise from Tampa, and his first solo cruise.  He talks about this port days in Cozumel and Harvest Caye, specialty dining, entertainment, and how trip insurance saved him when his flight was canceled due to a winter storm in the Northeast.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

In this episode of Cruise Radio, host Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Simms cover major cruise industry news, including Carnival's loyalty program overhaul, a passenger assault aboard the Carnival Sunrise, a hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius, and Norwegian Cruise Line's gratuity increases. They also discuss Alaska's record cruise season and Holland America's ship refurbishment. Guest Jen then shares her firsthand review of the MSC Grandiosa in the Mediterranean, covering embarkation, dining, entertainment, and ports including Tunisia, Sicily, and Marseille, offering practical tips for travelers considering a European cruise experience. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

In this episode of Cruise Radio, guest Amy shares an in-depth review of her seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise aboard Norwegian Aqua. She discusses her travel logistics, ship impressions, dining experiences, casino adventures, and time spent in exclusive areas like Vibe Beach Club. Amy also details port visits to St. Thomas, Tortola, and Great Stirrup Cay, offering practical tips and honest feedback on excursions and amenities. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.  

A review of Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas from Port Miami, Florida to the Eastern Caribbean.  Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news on:  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Staff writer Richard Simms cover major cruise industry news and gives us a review of Celebrity Apex from Port Canaveral in March 2026.   News highlights include two tragic incidents aboard Carnival Splendor, an update on a murder trial involving Carnival Horizon, Margaritaville banning a couple over a negative TikTok review, Virgin Voyages facing backlash over an itinerary change, AI booking technology announcements, and Princess Cruises ordering three new ships. Richard also gives us a detailed review of the Celebrity Apex, praising its design, suite perks, specialty dining, and entertainment, while recommending Eden restaurant and the Retreat experience above all else.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Haley shares her experience on a nine-night Mediterranean cruise aboard Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Equinox, sailing from Barcelona to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Haley reviews the ship's service, buffet, and specialty dining, while discussing port days, including visiting a dog shelter in Portugal. She also shares valuable tips on Celebrity's status matching perks and advice for managing jet lag on European cruises. Dan Skilken, President of TripInsurance.com, answers questions about travel insurance coverage for geopolitical events, missed ports, and flight delays. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas. Staff writer Richard Simms cover major cruise industry news, including Carnival's $300,000 negligence verdict for over-serving alcohol, Norwegian Cruise Line's $2 million COVID-era settlement, and a tragic murder aboard Carnival Horizon. Updates include MSC Cruises raising gratuities and Holland America's $500 million fleet refurbishment featuring solo cabins. Guest Rob reviews Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas on a nine-night Canada and New England itinerary, highlighting excellent dining, impressive entertainment, and memorable port calls in Boston, Sydney, Halifax, and Saint John. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

In this episode of Cruise Radio, host Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Sims cover major cruise news, including a video voyeurism arrest on Celebrity Beyond, a fishermen's protest blocking ships in Corsica, a grounding incident in Fiji, Holland America's gratuity increase, Miami's proposed airport-to-port train link, Alaska's Tracy Arm Fjord closure due to a landslide, and recent upgrades to Holland America's ms Koningsdam. Tim from Fargo, North Dakota, shares his review of a spontaneous four-night Carnival Radiance cruise from Long Beach, highlighting dining, entertainment, ports of call, and a pre-cruise stay on the historic Queen Mary. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of Princess Cruises' newest ships, Star Princess. This was a seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing from Port Everglades.  Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Doug Parker and Richard Simms discuss major cruise news, including a man-overboard prank, new residential cruise concepts, Disney's plans in Japan, and Norwegian's Philadelphia debut. Guest Heather shares her solo experience aboard Norwegian Joy, covering stateroom comfort, dining, entertainment, and excursions, and an awesome food tour in Cozumel. She offers practical tips for first-time and solo cruisers, praises Norwegian's solo traveler community, and recommends specialty dining. The episode provides valuable insights into cruise trends, ship life, and making the most of solo travel at sea. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of Celebrity Infinity.  Doug interviews Andrea about her ten-night "Best of Greece" cruise aboard Celebrity Infinity. Andrea discusses the ship's recent technical issues, her decision to sail, and highlights from the itinerary, including ports like Nafplio, Heraklion, Rhodes, Kavala, Kusadasi, and Athens. She shares insights on dining, entertainment, and shore excursions, noting the ship's age but praising its cleanliness and crew. Despite minor setbacks prior to her sailing, Andrea describes the cruise as a bucketlist itinerary and well-paced, with a focus on exploring Greek destinations rather than what the ship offers onboard.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of Carnival Cruise Line's first Excel ship Mardi Gras.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Doug Parker and cruise correspondent Richard Simms discuss the latest cruise news, including Carnival's new express dining, Princess Cruises' gratuity increases, and a proposed Tampa mega terminal. They also cover a man overboard false alarm and entertainment updates from Royal Caribbean and Norwegian.  Guest Daniel reviews his seven-night luxury cruise on MSC's Explorer One, sharing insights on the ship's all-suite accommodations, exceptional dining, unique ports, and overall experience. The episode offers listeners a comprehensive mix of industry updates and an in-depth review of MSC Cruises' new luxury cruise brand, Explora Journeys. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

In this Cruise Radio episode, Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Simms cover cruise news about:  Conflict in the Middle East Cruise line financials  Private island news from Norwegian Cruise Line Drink package news from Royal Caribbean  Brian gives us a recap of his six-night solo sailing on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas from Galveston. Brian shares insights on booking, embarkation, and onboard experiences, highlighting the ship's entertainment, dining, and amenities. He reviews port visits to Costa Maya, Roatan, and Cozumel, including a rainy day at Mr. Sancho's resort.  Brian offers practical tips for solo cruisers and praises the ship's layout and value, concluding with a strong recommendation for Harmony of the Seas and Oasis-class ships overall. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Doug Parker interviews Madison about her seven-night family cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line's new Prima-plus class ship, Norwegian Aqua, sailing from New York City to Bermuda. Madison shares detailed insights on embarkation logistics, stateroom comfort, the different dining experiences, onboard entertainment, and memorable Bermuda excursions. She offers practical tips for booking shows, specialty dining, and shore activities, highlighting the ship's spacious design and the value of planning ahead.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of Princess Cruises' Sky Princess. This was a 14 night land of the midnight sun cruise from Southampton, UK up to Norway and back.  Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news on the latest events with Carnival Cruise Line in Mexico, a lawsuit against Princess Cruises, a former Norwegian Cruise Line employee arrested, Carnival's new onboard lotto.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Tim talks about his eight night sailing on Carnival Magic to Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao in the Southern Caribbean. This ABC cruise left from Port Miami and had an extended stay at each of the islands lasting into the evening.  Doug Parker and cruise news reporter Richard Simms discuss major cruise industry updates. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

In this Cruise Radio episode, Doug interviews Rick about his recent transatlantic voyage on Cunard's Queen Mary 2, sailing from Southampton to New York. Rick shares highlights including pre-cruise adventures in London and Paris, smooth embarkation, stateroom selection, dining experiences, and unique onboard amenities like lectures, a planetarium, and a vast library. He describes witnessing whales, enjoying the ship's stability in rough seas, and the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. Rick offers practical tips for first-timers and dispels myths about formality, ultimately recommending the Queen Mary 2 crossing as "a memorable, classic travel experience." Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

In this episode of Cruise Radio, host Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Simms cover the latest cruise news, including dramatic man-overboard incidents, a major Carnival IT outage, a man unhappy with an onboard purchase, and cruise line Royal Caribbean Group shareholder updates.  A review of Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas during a festive New Year's Eve sailing. Jason shares insights on embarkation, dining, entertainment, specialty packages, and the new Royal Beach Club in Nassau, offering practical tips for first-time cruisers. The episode blends news, personal experiences, and expert advice for cruise planning. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of a Hawaii cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America.  Richard has cruise news on:  Carnival Hikes Gratuities & Drink Package – Starting April 2, gratuities rise to $17/day in standard rooms and $19/day in suites. Bottomless Bubbles soda package also increases to $11.99/day. Trevi Fountain Adds Entry Fee – Visitors must now pay $2.40 to get close to Rome's iconic fountain; locals and kids under 6 exempt. Jazz Cruise Tragedy – Renowned jazz musician Ken Peplowski passed away onboard Celebrity Summit during the annual Jazz Cruise. Drug Bust at PortMiami – Five passengers arrested with narcotics before boarding Symphony of the Seas for a themed Atlantis cruise. MSC Guests Left Behind – MSC Orchestra couldn't dock in Marseille due to port protests, forcing guests to rejoin in Genoa. MSC Adding Yacht Club – MSC Musica and Orchestra will receive the Yacht Club luxury enclave during upcoming refurbishments. Disney Adventure Breaks Record – Becomes the largest passenger ship to transit the Panama Canal on its way to Singapore homeport. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

In this episode of Cruise Radio, host Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Simms discuss the latest cruise industry news. Topics include:  Norwegian Cruise Line's first overnight docking at Great Stirrup Cay. The impact of Winter Storm Fern on cruise itineraries, and the importance of travel insurance. Royal Caribbean debuts cruise ship earlier than planned MSC developing a Freeport cruise port on Grand Bahamas Island. Norwegian's new policy requiring early arrivals for air program guests. Cruise ship Scenic Eclipse receiving icebreaker assistance in Antarctica. Carnival crew member labor disputes in Australia.  The episode also features Kevin's review of Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Star of the Seas, showcasing family-friendly amenities, food & dining, and the value of cruising on a large, modern ship in 2026 as a family. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of Norwegian Getaway in 2026. Plus staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

In this episode of Cruise Radio, host Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Simms cover the latest industry news, including Royal Caribbean's extended suspension of Haiti port calls, norovirus outbreaks, Norwegian Cruise Line branding changes, and the end of free cabin upgrades or "upgrade fairy." Ryan shares a detailed review of his five-night Carnival Paradise cruise, highlighting his suite upgrade, dining experiences, New Year's Eve festivities, and port visits to Nassau and Celebration Key.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

In this episode of Cruise Radio, Ralph shares an in-depth review of his seven-night cruise on MSC Grandiosa, a ship that recently started sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida after repositioning from Europe.  He discusses embarkation, ship design, cabin comfort, dining experiences, entertainment, and port visits. Ralph highlights the ship's European and Latin influences, standout live music, Cirque-style shows, and the relaxing private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. He also offers practical tips for booking activities and navigating the ship's amenities. The episode provides valuable insights for cruise passengers considering MSC, highlighting both the ship's strengths and challengesin the North American market. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of Carnival Venezia on a nine-night Caribbean cruise from New York City. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. TripInsurance.com president Dan Skilken answers some listener question. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

This week on Cruise Radio, we cover cruise news along with a ship review of Disney Wish. Stories include a rescue at Celebration Key, Hawaii's new cruise passenger tax, and changes at Norwegian Cruise Line's private destination, Great Stirrup Cay. In this episode: A four-year-old fell between Carnival Sunrise and the pier at Celebration Key and was rescued by her mother and crew members  Hawaii implemented an 11% cruise passenger tax effective January 1, 2026 Around 100 passengers reported gastrointestinal illness on Celebrity Eclipse Coral Adventurer ran aground on a reef near Papua New Guinea, and passengers were evacuated Norwegian Cruise Line opened a new pier and amenities at Great Stirrup Cay, with drink package changes Review of Disney Wish Ship review: The three-night sailing aboard Disney Wish departed from Port Canaveral, with a planned stop at Nassau changed to a sea day due to weather, and a visit to Castaway Cay. The review covers rotational dining across three themed restaurants, Broadway-style shows, and adult-only spaces. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A seven-night cruise on Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas from Bayonne, New Jersey to Florida and The Bahamas. This cruise had a stop in Nassau, Port Canaveral, and Perfect Day at CocoCay.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

An eight-night review of Carnival Panorama from Long Beach, California to the Mexican Riviera.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of the newly launched Celebrity Xcel on a two night preview cruise from Port Canaveral. Hear first impressions of the fifth Edge-class ship.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of the brand new Star Princess, the second Sphere class. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of Norwegian Jade on a repositioning cruise from Vancouver to San Diego, California, with stops in Southeast Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Staff writer Richard Simms has this week's cruise news.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of the inaugural cruise of Disney Destiny.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of a five night Western Caribbean cruise on Carnival Valor to Progresso, Mexico and Cozumel from New Orleans. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A Bahamas review of Norwegian Escape. Richard Simms has cruise news. Learning about how travel insurance impacts passengers during air traffic control delays and flight cancellations. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

Margie gives a review of her second Virgin Voyages cruise. This time she sailed from Athens on an eight-night Greek Isles cruise in a balcony cabin. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

A review of the ABC islands from Dale. He sailed Celebrity Reflection earlier this year out of Port Everglades. This was his first time sailing with Celebrity Cruises. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news.  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.  Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. Follow Cruise Radio's Socials: LinkedIn  | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube  | Twitter | Patreon About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.