A dengue fever outbreak has emerged in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a popular port for cruise ships in the Caribbean. Health authorities have urged caution, particularly for vulnerable populations including children and pregnant women. As the Caribbean faces a rise in dengue cases this year—double the number reported during the same period last year—cruise-goers are advised to take preventive measures, such as using insect repellent, to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Always best to keep health in mind while enjoying your travels!
Across the pond, as families eagerly anticipated their holiday adventures aboard the Disney Dream in Liverpool, what was meant to be a cheerful day turned dangerous. Over the weekend, a riot broke out in the vicinity of the cruise port. Parents, children, and other passengers found themselves in a chaotic scene as opposing protest groups clashed, leaving many scrambling for safety. Protesters hurled bricks and bottles, resulting in significant injuries to several police officers trying to manage the situation. Thankfully, none of this unrest was directed at the cruise industry itself. However, the chaos created an unsafe environment for docking and left many families with unforgettable memories of an entirely different sort.
Meanwhile, things are heating up in the weather department. In the Atlantic, Hurricane Debbie made landfall, prompting significant disruptions to cruise operations in Port Tampa Bay. As a precaution, the port closed on Sunday, stranding the Carnival Paradise and Margaritaville at Sea Paradise cruise ships as they were unable to return as scheduled. Another Carnival vessel, the Jacksonville-based Carnival Elation, was forced to adjust its itinerary and depart a day earlier to avoid the storm. It’s a reminder to always stay updated on weather conditions during hurricane season, especially if you’re in that region.
For those planning ahead, Holland America Line has opened reservations for its 2026 European cruise season. This announcement captures the growing trend of booking early, which can often lead to better deals. With an array of ships sailing from 11 different departure cities, eager travelers might want to jump on this opportunity to secure their dream European getaway.
Carnival Cruise Line has unveiled plans for an exclusive adults-only area at their forthcoming private destination, Celebration Key, set to launch in July 2025. Dubbed the Pearl Cove Beach Club, this serene setting will feature an expansive 11,000-square-foot pool with a swim-up bar, private beach access, and a full-service restaurant. Reservations are already open for those interested in experiencing this luxurious escape. Sounds like the perfect getaway for those looking to relax without the little ones around!
In an alarming incident last week, five cruise passengers were struck by lightning in St. Martin while their ships were docked. Reports indicate that three of them required hospitalization after the unfortunate event. Two individuals were holding an umbrella when the incident occurred while the others were enjoying the water. It’s a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of Mother Nature, even on vacation.
Lastly, two men who made headlines for a brazen jewelry heist aboard the MSC Virtuosa have been sentenced for their crime. Caught on surveillance stuffing valuable jewelry worth over £76,000 down their pants on the first day of their cruise, the duo was clearly under the influence. They received a 15-month suspended prison sentence along with a hefty dose of community service, putting a swift end to their ill-gotten cruise ‘treasures.’
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