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Royal Caribbean Opens 2025-2026 Itineraries

A bird’s-eye view of Odyssey of the Seas
A bird’s-eye view of Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International has revealed the next in its lineup of 2025-2026 adventures. For the summer and winter, seven favorites will cruise from seven U.S. cities in FloridaNortheastPuerto Rico and Texas on 5- to 12-night vacationsCrown & Anchor Society loyalty members can be the first to book on Royal Caribbean’s website starting today, ahead of the official opening on Thursday, Feb. 15.

The highlights in store for every type of family and adventurer include Odyssey of the Seas’ second consecutive winter season in the New York area and game-changing Oasis Class vacations to the eastern and western Caribbean with Allure of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Galveston, Texas, as well as Symphony of the Seas from Bayonne, New Jersey, and Miami.

Plus,travelers looking for more time in the picturesque northern Atlantic coast can have their pick from BrillianceJewelLiberty and Vision of the Seasacross a combination of Boston; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Bayonne; and Baltimore, Maryland.

From the pristine shorelines to turquoise waters and vibrant cultures in the southern, eastern and western Caribbean, and The Bahamas, the tropical destinations on the horizon have adventures of all kinds.

Vacationers can island hop to spots like Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis; Cozumel, Mexico; Castries, St. Lucia; St. Johns, AntiguaSt. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Royal Caribbean’s marquee private destinations, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas and Labadee, Haiti.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

With thrill and chill at Perfect Day at CocoCay’s two towers of adrenaline-pumping waterslides and the island’s first adults-only oasisHideaway Beach, plus Labadee’s five stunning shorelines, a vibrant local artisans market and the world’s longest overwater zip line, everyone can make memories in more ways than one.

And for adventurers looking to venture up the East Coast, there are memorable destinations to explore in New England and Canada, including Portland, MaineHalifax, Nova Scotia in Canada; andmore.

2025-2026 Northeast & Caribbean Highlights

Bold Quantum Class Experiences

With a bold lineup of thrilling experiences and signature adventures that vacationers know and love, Odyssey features experiences for all ages, including the deck-defying RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, the North Star all-glass observation capsule, and a vibrant resort-style pool deck inspired by the Caribbean. Plus, there are more than 25 restaurants, bars and lounges like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Teppanyaki and Wonderland; as well as one-of-a-kind entertainment in high-tech venues like Two70 and the Royal Theater.

  • Odyssey of the Seas – From Bayonne
    Following its second consecutive summer in Europe, Odyssey will call the New York area home once again. Vacationers looking to beat the winter blues can escape on 7-night vacations to The Bahamas, including the top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, The Bahamas

Oasis Class Adventures for the Whole Family

The original game-changers, Oasis Class ships feature a combination of ways to make memories across signature neighborhoods. Popular experiences include the 10-story Ultimate Abyss dry slideThe Perfect Storm trio of waterslidesfull-scale entertainment across four stages: air, ice, water and theater; a nine-deck-high zip line, twin FlowRider surf simulators; and more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges – from American steakhouse Chops Grille to Izumi, with Japanese-inspiredflavors and more.  

  • Symphony of the Seas – From Bayonne and Miami
    This Oasis Class favorite is back in the Northeast for the summer to visit Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, and Perfect Day at CocoCay ahead of returning to Miami in October 2025. On 7-night eastern and western Caribbean vacations, travelers can island hop from Royal Caribbean’s private destinations, Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee; Falmouth, Jamaica; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and more.
     
  • Allure of the Seas – From Fort Lauderdale and Galveston
    Vacationers looking for winter getaways from Fort Lauderdale can choose from alternating 6- and 8-night eastern and western Caribbean adventures to Charlotte AmalieSan Juan and The Bahamas’ historic capital of Nassau,plus each eastern Caribbean getaway will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay.To close out the adventure-packed season, Allure will return to Royal Caribbean’s first zero-energy terminal in the Lone Star State for 7-night getaways to the western Caribbean, which will visit Roatan, Honduras, and Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.

Freedom Class Getaways

Vacationers can enjoy the amplified experiences on Liberty of the Seas. Highlights include thrills like The Perfect Storm dual-racing waterslides and the FlowRider surf simulator, and restaurants serving up everything from sushi and sashimi at Izumi to Tuscan classics at Giovanni’s Table. Plus, there’s original entertainment and ways to go for a night out on the town – whether it’s dancing, bar hopping or watching a movie under the stars on the pool deck.

  • Liberty of the Seas – From Bayonne
    Returning to the Northeast, Liberty brings a varied combination of 4-, 5- and 9-night adventures to the eastern Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England. Vacationers can have their pick of short escapes or longer getaways to Halifax and Sydney in Canada, Royal Caribbean’s Labadee, San Juan and Philipsburg

Radiance & Vision Class Vacations

The Vision Class and Radiance Class ships feature pools, views and experiences made for memory-making from day to night. Whether kicking back on the pool deck or at the adults-only Solarium, finding Zen at the Vitality Spa, adventuring to new heights on Royal Caribbean’s signature rock climbing wall or breaking bread over prime cuts at Chops Grille or five courses at Chef’s Table, vacationers can make the most of their getaway every minute of the day.

  • Brilliance of the Seas –From Boston and San Juan
    Vacationers can enjoy coastal adventures up north when the beloved Radiance Class ship returns to Boston after a decade, sailing 7-night adventures to Portland Saint John, New Brunswick; Halifax; and more. In the winter, Brilliance will call San Juan home for the first time since 2013. Vacationers can set their sights on visiting a variety of southern Caribbean destinations like ArubaBonaireCuracaoTortola, British Virgin Islands;and for the first time, Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago.
  • Jewel of the Seas – From San Juan
    In the winter, Jewel will set sail on 7-night Southern Caribbean getaways to picture-perfect beaches like St. Croix; Roseau, Dominica; Philipsburg; Charlotte Amalie; and Bridgetown, Barbados.
  • Vision of the Seas – From Baltimore
    The year-round Baltimore resident makes its way to Bermuda, Perfect Day at CocoCay or Canada on 5- and 9-night vacations for the summer. The winter will bring another lineup of adventures to the table, including 8-night getaways to The Bahamas and 12-night sailings to destinations in the southern Caribbean like St. Croix, Roseau and Philipsburg.

More ways to see and explore the Caribbean will be revealed. Vacationers can book the new and upcoming adventures by visiting Royal Caribbean’s website.  

Carnival Celebrates Valentine’s Day With Fleet-Wide Vow Renewal

Carnival Cruise Line Celebrates Valentines Day With Fleetwide Vow Renewal Event
Carnival Cruise Line Celebrates Valentines Day With Fleetwide Vow Renewal Event

Carnival Cruise Line is celebrating Valentine’s Day in a big way this year by inviting couples sailing on its ships to take part in its largest-ever vow renewal at sea. Virtually officiated by Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal, the fleetwide ceremony is even bigger than last year – since two new ships – Carnival Venezia and Carnival Jubilee – are giving even more guests the opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to each other.

Carnival’s Fleet-Wide Vow Renewal

An onboard reception follows each ceremony, including a DJ and a champagne toast to celebrate the newly renewed couples. And to add to the fun, there is an onboard kiss-cam spotlighting couples on the big screen of the Seaside Theater.

Sailing Away With Love

“People meet, get engaged and get married on Carnival cruise ships and our Valentine’s Day vow renewals are an extension of how couples love to cruise with Carnival, and we’re delighted to offer this ceremony to more guests than ever before,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Love and fun go hand in hand, so a vow renewal or wedding ceremony is even more special when it’s part of a Carnival cruise. We have a team of experienced planners who make it their mission to ensure unforgettable celebrations between loved ones and their friends and families.” 

Carnival Celebrates Valentine’s Day

Carnival gives thousands of guests the opportunity to sail away with love by offering a variety of ceremonies at sea or on beautiful destinations through the Weddings by Carnival program. Last year, more than 1,220 weddings and vow renewals took place. Whether guests want to plan an engagement, wedding, honeymoon or vow renewal, Carnival offers a wide selection of personalized packages and itineraries to make this an unforgettable moment. For more information, click here

Building on an already large portfolio of options for hosting special celebrations, Carnival also recently announced its upcoming exclusive destination Celebration Key will include an events pavilion that is dedicated to hosting weddings, vow renewals and other special events. 

For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

Fourth Excel-Class Ship Ordered For Carnival Cruise Line

Excel-Class Ship
Excel-Class Ship

Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK) has announced it has signed an agreement with leading German shipbuilder Meyer Werft to build a fourth Excel class cruise ship for its namesake Carnival Cruise Line brand. The ship, the 10th Excel class ship in the corporation’s fleet across four of its world-class brands, is expected to enter service in Spring 2027.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Excel-Class Ships 

Mardi Gras ship tour and review by Cruise Addicts

Joining current Carnival Cruise Line Excel-class ships Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee, the new 180,000-ton ship will carry over 6,400 guests and be powered on a liquefied natural gas (LNG) technology platform. This new ship is the first newbuild order placed by Carnival Corporation in five years.

“Our Excel class ships have been a tremendous addition to the Carnival fleet and proven very popular with our guests,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “As the world’s most popular cruise line, this new ship enables us to continue the growth of our incredible fleet as we welcome our loyal guests back to cruise more frequently and attract new-to-cruise guests to experience all that a Carnival cruise has to offer.”

Carnival’s Growing Capacity

Fourth Excel-Class Ship Ordered For Carnival Cruise Line | 1
Mardi Gras was the first ship to feature a roller coaster.

“Building on our strong performance and growing momentum around the world, we are excited to resume our newbuild program and further enhance our global fleet with yet another state-of-the-art ship that will wow Carnival Cruise Line’s guests,” said Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation. “With one newbuild scheduled for delivery in 2025, none for 2026, and this order being our only expected newbuild in 2027, our responsible capital approach will support utilizing our substantial free cash flow over the next several years to strategically improve our balance sheet, significantly reduce our leverage levels and continue to transfer value from debt holders to shareholders.

Carnival Celebration's Center Stage
Carnival Celebration’s Center Stage

“We are following through on our measured capacity growth strategy, with the addition of one to two ships per year beginning in 2027 which will be allocated to our cruise lines that most need the capacity to satisfy outsized demand, delivering an attractive payback period. We also remain focused on driving revenue growth throughout our portfolio of world-class cruise lines by continuing to improve execution across all aspects of our operation, yielding higher return on invested capital,” said Weinstein.

“We are very pleased that the partnership between the MEYER Group and Carnival Corporation will continue with this new order,” said Bernd Eikens, CEO MEYER Group.

Get To Know Carnival Corporation & plc

Carnival Corporation & plc is the largest global cruise company, and among the largest leisure travel companies, with a portfolio of world-class cruise lines – AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises (Australia), P&O Cruises (UK), Princess Cruises, and Seabourn.

For more information you can visit www.carnival.com

11 Photography Trick Shots During Cruise Traveling

Cruising is like going on a big adventure on the sea, and I want to help you make your memories extra special with some cool photo tricks!

Spending a lot of time in photography, I have put together 11 easy ways to take awesome pictures during your cruise, from beautiful night shots to fun pictures of your new friends.

So, grab your camera, let out your creative side, and let’s make your cruise memories look amazing! I am here to guide you through the world of photography and turn every photo into a story. Ready to set sail on this photo journey? Let’s get started!

Long Exposure Pool Reflections

Transform the cruise ship’s pool into a tranquil canvas using a slow shutter speed. This technique captures reflections with a silky smoothness, creating a dreamy and ethereal effect. The water becomes a mirror, reflecting the surroundings in a unique way.

Photography Trick Shots
11 Photography Trick Shots During Cruise Traveling 18

Try taking pictures with different brightness levels to create a dreamy effect. The outcome? Amazing photos make the pool look like a calm paradise surrounded by the lively atmosphere of the cruise, making people feel like they’re right there in that captured moment.

Night Sky With Ship Illumination

When it gets dark, reveal the beauty of the night sky with the cruise ship lit up against the dark background. Use a longer camera exposure to bring out the details of the ship in the darkness. The pictures you get show off the ship’s grand and detailed design with a cinematic touch.

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This method captures the essence of the ship and the stunning beauty of the night, creating a visual masterpiece that celebrates the cruise’s nighttime charm. It’s like pausing time to admire the ship’s elegance in the dark, making a special artwork that captures the magic of the cruise after sunset.

Framing Ports With Portholes

Enhance your cruise photography by framing picturesque ports through the ship’s charming portholes. This unique perspective adds elegance and storytelling to your shots, transforming simple views into artistic compositions. The circular framing of the portholes serves as a natural vignette, drawing attention to the captivating scenes beyond.

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Whether you’re taking pictures of a busy harbor or a calm coastal scene, using good photography tricks lets you capture the feel of each port. This way of taking pictures helps make images that show the charm and wonder of your cruise adventures. This is the same feeling you observe while availing assignment writing help successfully. It’s like putting memories in the ship’s comfy windows, making each photo a doorway to the beauty of the ports you visited.

Cityscape through Cabin Windows

Your cabin window is your private picture frame! Let’s make it special by framing cityscapes or landscapes outside. Add a personal touch to the destinations you visit by capturing the view through your window. It’s like bringing the world to your room!

These photos will be your visual postcards, reminding you of the unique charm each cityscape holds. So, grab your camera, look out the window, and let’s turn your cabin into a gallery of breathtaking views!

Cruise Ship Light Trails

Get ready for some nighttime magic! Secure your camera on a tripod and let’s capture the cruise ship’s lights as it gracefully glides through the water. Using a camera trick called long exposure, watch the lights paint mesmerizing trails in the dark. It’s like a glowing dance on the sea!

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This simple technique turns the ship’s movements into a stunning visual masterpiece, preserving the magic of the cruise’s nighttime journey. So, grab your tripod and let the ship’s lights be the stars of your photos!

Balcony Self-Portraits

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Your balcony is your personal stage, so let’s turn it into a selfie haven! Take advantage of this cozy spot to snap creative self-portraits with the ocean or ports as your backdrop. Whether it’s a casual smile or a dramatic pose, your balcony is the perfect frame for your cruise memories. So, grab your camera, strike a pose, and let’s make each selfie a piece of your unforgettable journey!

Dramatic Clouds Over Open Sea

Time to capture the drama in the sky! Grab your wide-angle lens and emphasize the vast open sea views with dramatic cloud formations. It’s like painting the sky with emotions! This simple technique creates a sense of scale and grandeur, showcasing the breathtaking expanse of the open sea.

From fluffy clouds to stormy spectacles, each photo tells a story of the ever-changing beauty above the waves. So, get ready to capture the poetry in the clouds and let your photos speak volumes about the awe-inspiring journey across the open sea.

Candid Moments in Common Areas

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Get ready to catch the real moments of joy! Bring your camera to the common areas and capture spontaneous scenes of fellow passengers enjoying various cruise activities. From laughter at the deck to smiles over dinner, these candid shots emphasize genuine emotions and the heartwarming connections made on your journey. It’s about freezing those happy cruise moments in time, creating a photo album full of smiles and shared adventures.

Deck Symmetry With Leading Lines

Time to add some magic to the ship’s deck! Notice those cool patterns? Let’s use them! Grab your camera and capture the symmetrical beauty of the ship’s deck. Use leading lines, like invisible paths, to guide the eyes through your photo. It’s like creating a visual adventure! This simple trick makes your photos visually appealing and tells a story about the order and elegance of the cruise journey. So, let’s explore the symmetrical wonders of the deck together!

Sunset Silhouettes on Deck

When the sun takes its final bow, capture the enchantment on the cruise deck. Find the perfect spot to snap fellow passengers or ship features as dark silhouettes against the vibrant sunset. The colors create a stunning contrast, turning ordinary scenes into extraordinary snapshots.

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Watch how the shadows and colors play together at sunset, telling a story in each photo. It’s like a beautiful symphony as the day ends, capturing memories with the colors of the sunset and creating lasting moments with every picture taken.

Underwater Perspectives In Clear Ports

Ever wondered what’s below the water’s surface? If your cruise ship stops in clear water, let’s find out! Grab your camera and capture the underwater world through the transparent port. It’s like peeking into a secret kingdom!

Photograph marine life or even the ship’s structure from a unique angle. These photos will be like underwater postcards, showcasing the hidden beauty beneath the surface. So, put on your imaginary scuba gear, dive into creativity, and let’s explore the mesmerizing underwater perspectives together!

Conclusion

As our photographic cruise journey comes to a close, we’ve unveiled a treasure trove of tricks to elevate your travel snapshots. From capturing the fiery embrace of sunsets on the deck to framing cityscapes through cabin windows, each technique paints a vivid canvas of your cruising adventures.

The mesmerizing light trails, candid moments, and dramatic cloudscapes all find a place in the photo album of your memories. Whether you’re exploring symmetrical wonders on the deck or peering into the underwater realm through clear ports, each shot tells a unique tale.

So, as you reflect on the visual symphony of your cruise, remember that each click is a portal to the laughter, awe, and connections experienced on the high seas. Dear fellow photographers, may your future journeys be as picture-perfect as the memories you have captured!

Author Bio

Liza Brooke is a passionate blogger from Royton who loves photography. She is passionate about travelling and often travels solo to enjoy nature. In her free time, she shares her work and writes articles and blogs for her audience.

Celebrity Ascent, Earns Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Award

Celebrity Cruises, the first ocean cruise line to earn the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide (“FTG”) Star Awards in 2023, continues to collect accolades with six of its ships receiving an official rating in 2024. Illustrating the importance of innovation and guest centric service is the addition of Celebrity Ascent, the newest Edge Series ship, to the Four-Star list. 

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity’s six premium ships earning Star Ratings are Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity FloraCelebrity EdgeCelebrity Millennium, and Celebrity Summit.

Forbes Travel Guide

Forbes Travel Guide is the global authority on luxury hospitality and the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises. FTG’s professional inspectors travel the world to anonymously evaluate hospitality providers based on hundreds of standards that determine their annual Star Ratings.

“We strive to exceed all expectations for our guests seeking the best in premium vacations, from our level of elevated service, thoughtful amenities, and the highest quality of experiences both on and off our ships. We are honored to be recognized again by the only global rating system for the ocean cruise category,” says Laura Hodges Bethge, Celebrity Cruises President. “We applaud our incredibly talented and dedicated Celebrity crew for another year of international recognition.”

“Celebrity embodies the modern-day ethos of elevated service, elegant facilities and upscale dining options with the added benefit of being on the move to a variety of destinations,” said Hermann Elger, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide. “We congratulate Celebrity for its Star Award achievements for six ships.”

For more information and to book a sailing with Celebrity Cruises, visit www.celebrity.com, contact a trusted travel advisor, or call Celebrity Cruises at 1-800-CELEBRITY.

Seabourn Unveils New Fine-Dining Experience “SOLIS”

A rendering of Solis aboard Seabourn Encore
A rendering of Solis aboard Seabourn Encore

Seabourn is transforming their ships to feature its new fine dining restaurant, Solis, to be as fresh and inviting as the Mediterranean cuisine on the menu. Set to debut on Seabourn Quest in January 2024, Solis will offer a distinctive space for guests to enjoy dishes inspired by destinations along the Mediterranean Sea.

Solis will feature design touches that create a warm and inviting ambiance for our many guests,” said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. “Our expert in-house interior design team designed the perfect setting to celebrate the Mediterranean atmosphere combined with our signature Seabourn style. I hope our guests will feel the elevated style of fine dining while also experiencing the warmth that you would typically feel when visiting a Mediterranean family restaurant.”

Soft, Stunning and Inviting

The interior design for Solis is spearheaded by two highly talented design masters at Seabourn, My Nguyen, director of interior design, and Linh Nguyen, senior interior manager. They took a thoughtful path with the design to incorporate sustainable materials. Solis will feature new, soft wool carpeting that extends wall to wall customized by carpetmaker Dansk Wilton, a carpet pioneer in sustainability with a Cradle-to-Cradle certification. In addition, materials were selected through textile partners who create fabrics with at least 50% recycled content. Other design elements of Solis include the bespoke blue and cream leather from Penelopeoggi and custom-made outdoor chair covers by Trimline with Gtex fabrics.

My and Linh had a design vision for Solis, blending modern lines with natural elements creating a light and sophisticated palette taking shapes from the sun and hues from the Mediterranean cuisine. The colors are showcased in the overhead beams with shades of blue while chairs and banquettes are reimagined in a blue and cream leather accenting with gold geometric pillows. Inspired by the tile work at the entrance and behind the bar of each dining space, the carpet will shimmer with patterns of gold, olive and blue that radiate like the sun, a nod to the restaurant’s new name, on a background of warm cream that is bright enough to stand out amid the bustle of elegant service.

“We are most proud of the team collaboration across key departments to fully realize the Solis concept and transforming the existing design into a new, light and warm restaurant that reflects the very inspiration behind the concept,” said My. “The goal was to create a space that feels organic, sophisticated, and elegant without being pretentious. We are excited with the material and color combinations selected for this space to create an inviting experience for guests to be delighted by all senses from the interior design to the cuisine.”

Designing for Ultra-Luxury Guests

Based in Seattle, My and Linh came together more than a decade ago following their respective studies in interior design. My, who earned a Bachelor of Fine Art at the University of Puget Sound before completing the interior design program at the Art Institute of Seattle, interned with Holland America Line before joining a local residential and hospitality design firm. She then circled back to the line in 2013 to lead a team that manages the interior design and refurbishments for the line’s ships. She began working on Seabourn’s ultra-luxury cruise ships in 2013.

Linh earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Washington followed by an Associate of Arts in interior design from Bellevue College. She joined Holland America Line and Seabourn in 2013.

Both agree that interior design for Seabourn requires a delicate touch. “With their ultra-luxury standards and feel, Seabourn ships are all about texture, material, and finesse because the spaces onboard are so intimate,” notes My, adding that guests of the line are equally elevated in their appreciation of design. “They notice the finer details and refinement on board, and our work for Seabourn is all about nuanced luxury.”

Solis debuted on Seabourn Quest in January 2024 and will be implemented on Seabourn Ovation, Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Sojourn by spring 2024. The new fine dining restaurant will offer light, modern Mediterranean cuisine bursting with color and character, prepared fresh and entirely from scratch.​ Solis will showcase a vibrant, chic atmosphere with meticulously curated background music and a menu reminiscent of guests’ and team members’ favorite travel memories.​ Solis was developed in collaboration with longtime Seabourn partners, Master Chef and Culinary Partner Chef Anton Egger, and Senior Corporate Chef Franck Salein.

For reservations or more details, please contact a professional travel advisor; call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.  

New Ways to Dine and Celebrate on Utopia of the Seas

The ultimate short getaway, Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas is setting the table for memories and weekend energy with more than 40 ways to dine and celebrate any occasion.

The world of flavors in store for vacationers include a new, one-of-a-kind adventure that combines food, technology and a train to travel to any place and time, a debut omakase-inspired private experience at the signature Izumi and new convenient, casual spots for quick bites like The Spare Tire.

In summer 2024, Utopia makes it way to Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, to visit the cruise line’s top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay and more year-round.  

What’s on the menu? Here are the highlights:

  • Royal Railway – Utopia Station: This new, one-of-a-kind dining experience combines adventure, food and tech to travel – by train. The journey starts with pre-dinner drinks at the station platform where, at the sound of the train whistle, guests board the dining car for a multisensory culinary adventure that will transport them to any place and time, from America’s Wild West to far-off destinations across the globe, all without leaving the ship.
  • The Spare Tire: Vacationers can refuel with quick bites and handheld favorites to keep the party going at this new poolside food truck. From delicious pulled pork sandwiches, cheeseburger flatbread, daily rotating desserts and more, there is a truckload of flavor to be explored.
  • Izumi and Izumi in the Park: Joining the Royal Caribbean staple in its new Central Park location is a convenient pickup window that serves up sushi, Japanese-inspired street food and sweets. Next door is a reimagined Izumi restaurant, with a new multicourse omakase-inspired private dining experience paired with sake cocktails, more teppanyaki tables, al fresco dining and more.

Plus, Utopia is home to Royal Caribbean staples that are among 20-plus dining experiences, including:

  • Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar: Now spanning two stories, the reimagined favorite and menu of authentic Italian dishes, varietals and classic cocktails with a twist extend to the new outside terrace – Gio’s Terrazza – that overlooks the signature Boardwalk.
  • Other returning favorites on the table are hot spots such as The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar, Hooked Seafood, Chops Grille, now connected to the signature Trellis Bar; and more.

Seabourn Ovation Receives Forbes Travel Guide Award

Forbes Travel Guide
Seabourn Ovation

Seabourn is celebrating Seabourn Ovation, which has earned the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide (“FTG”) Star Awards. The Star Awards are the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and ocean cruises. Seabourn Ovation’s new Forbes Travel Guide award is showcased with other honorees on ForbesTravelGuide.com.

Seabourn Ovation

Launched in 2018 and designed in partnership with Tihany Design, Seabourn Ovation features a yacht-like ultra-luxury atmosphere and a high ratio of space per guest, enabling highly intuitive and personalized service for each guest on board. Carrying just 600 guests, based on double occupancy, the all-suite ship offers a number of desirable in-suite amenities to provide guests with a “home away from home” onboard experience. In every luxurious suite is a private veranda, providing sweeping oceanfront views and spacious enough for private al fresco dining. Seabourn Ovation offers an abundance of space and elegance, including seven lounges and bars, world-class dining and culinary experiences, a wellness and spa center, two outdoor swimming pools, six outdoor whirlpools, an expansive sun terrace, complimentary water sports from the ship’s unique marina and much more.

“Since 2018, Seabourn Ovation has delivered many out-of-the-ordinary experiences to our extraordinary guests while sailing around the world to many amazing destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Caribbean. Just like the rest of the ships in the Seabourn fleet, Seabourn Ovation delivers truly ultra-luxury experiences, from the elegant ship design to outstanding culinary offerings to one-of-a-kind warm and personalized service,” said Natalya Leahy, President of Seabourn. “I am delighted that Forbes Travel Guide and others have recognized Seabourn’s exceptional experience. This honor is a wonderful testament to our entire team who delivers unforgettable ‘Seabourn Moments’ and incredible experiences to guests when they sail on the best ultra-luxury cruise line at sea.”

Seabourn pioneered small-ship, ultra-luxury cruising, and continues to represent the pinnacle of that unique style of travel. The Seabourn fleet includes seven ultra-luxury small-ship vessels, including Seabourn Ovation, which are arrayed with a wealth of onboard touches to ensure smooth sailing and delightful voyaging enroute to every destination on their itineraries. Its fleet of intimate, all-suite ships, carrying between 264 and 600 guests each, sail to more than 400 ports and destinations on all seven continents around the world.

Forbes Travel Guide

Forbes Travel Guide is the world-renowned authority on excellence in hospitality, and Seabourn Ovation is the latest addition to its illustrious annual Star Rating list.

“This year’s Star Awards reflects the forecasted surge in demand for more thrilling travel experiences,” says Amanda Frasier, President of Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide. “They are delivering at the very top of their game and reimagining the future of luxury across design, dining and well-being. Our 2024 winners include more special places to visit across the Middle East and Africa, with a record number of list additions for the region. We commend all the 2024 winners for continuing to deliver a fresh new guest experience.”

To view the new Star Award winners, visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.

To learn how Forbes Travel Guide compiles its Star Ratings, click here.

Get To Know Seabourn

Seabourn represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury ocean and expedition travel and operates a suite of seven modern ships. The all-inclusive, boutique ships offer all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; award-winning dining; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available at all times; renowned service provided by an industry-leading crew; a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home; a pedigree in expedition travel through the Ventures by Seabourn program and two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ships, including Seabourn Venture that launched in 2022 and Seabourn Pursuit in 2023. Seabourn takes travelers to every continent on the globe, visiting more than 400 ports including marquee cities and lesser-known ports and hideaways. Guests of Seabourn experience extraordinary offerings and programs, including partnerships with leading entertainers, dining, personal health and wellbeing, and engaging speakers. 

For more details about Seabourn, or to explore the worldwide selection of Seabourn cruising options, contact a professional travel advisor, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.

Gwen Stefani Will Be Godmother of Carnival Jubilee

Gwen Stefani
Gwen Stefani announced as the Godmother of Carniva; Cruise Line's new flagship Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Cruise Line has announced that global music superstar Gwen Stefani will be honored as the godmother of Carnival’s new flagship, Carnival Jubilee, at a naming ceremony and celebration in Galveston, Texas on Saturday, Feb. 24.

Gwen Stefani

A three-time GRAMMY® Award winner, Gwen Stefani has achieved global success as a songwriter, performer, charismatic frontwoman of No Doubt and as a multi-platinum solo artist. Throughout it all, Stefani has remained a trend-setting music and fashion icon with an impressive array of honors – four MTV Video Music Awards, two Billboard Awards, an American Music Award and a Brit Award. To date, she’s sold more than 60 million units worldwide. Stefani also returned for her seventh season as a coach on the Emmy®-winning NBC series The Voice this past fall.

Stefani is also recognized for her philanthropic work, including her support of children’s causes.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be welcoming Gwen Stefani onto Carnival Jubilee so we can honor her as the ship’s godmother,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “She has demonstrated her commitment to our Carnival values, including promoting diversity and inclusion, supporting charitable causes, being a leader in her field, and of course, having fun. We are going to show her an enthusiastic welcome in only the way Carnival can when she joins us on February 24.”

“I am honored to be the godmother of the new Carnival Jubilee,” said Stefani. “Carnival is taking it to the next level of fun while being committed to children’s causes and supporting our military families and veterans.”

Carnival Jubilee

Gwen Stefani Will Be Godmother of Carnival Jubilee | 1
Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Jubilee entered service on Dec. 23, 2023 and is homeported year-round from the Port of Galveston. The ship is the third of Carnival’s Excel class, is powered on a liquefied natural gas (LNG) technology platform and can hold 6500 guests and 1750 crew.

The naming ceremony is an invitation-only event that will be held on board the ship. A portion of the event will be broadcast live on Carnival’s Facebook page starting at 3:30 CST on Feb. 24.

Carnival Vista Reveals New Livery, Expanded Casino, Heroes Bar and Retail Stores

Carnival Vistas ClubO2
Carnival Vistas ClubO2 has been completely redone in a new location for teens

Carnival Vista is returning to her homeport of Port Canaveral, Fla. following a 30-day dry dock where she received several enhancements including Carnival’s signature red, white and blue hull livery, a new Heroes Tribute Bar & Loungeretail stores, a teen club, arcade and expanded casino.

On the exterior, Carnival Vista now sports Carnival’s signature red, white and blue livery on her hull. Among several interior public areas refreshed, one of the most significant new features is the addition of a Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, which is an expanding venue across the Carnival fleet and honors military veterans and active-duty service members. The casino was expanded with a new layout and a separate non-smoking annex has also been added.

For shoppers, there’s an all-new Effy Jewelry store and a new Cherry on Top. A new Club O2 for teens was created in a new location and the ship’s arcade was relocated and redone as well. The Lido Marketplace was also refreshed with a new look.

The 4,000-guest Carnival Vista will resume year-round sailing from Port Canaveral, offering mostly six- and eight-day itineraries that feature popular destinations, including Half Moon Cay, Bahamas; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos; Aruba; San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Maarten and St. Thomas. The vessel is part of Carnival’s four-ship deployment in Central Florida, which is also home to Carnival Freedom, Carnival Liberty and Mardi Gras.

For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.