You don’t need to be part of a large group to enjoy a cruise. In fact, cruising can be a safe and enjoyable way to travel solo. However, if you’re an extrovert, you might be wondering what opportunities you'll have to meet other travelers while on board. 

I've taken multiple solo cruises — from a short Bahamian getaway to a weeklong voyage to Alaska — and while I prefer traveling with my loved ones, I can attest that cruising alone gives you the chance to meet new people and form friendships that you might not otherwise encounter in your daily life. 

Making friends on a cruise is easier than you think. However, you must be willing to put in the effort, whether that means attending an event you'd typically avoid or striking up a conversation with a stranger at the bar. 

Here are 8 ways to embrace your social butterfly and meet people on a cruise ship. 

Join your sailing's Facebook group

Most cruises have an unofficial Facebook group started by other guests, giving you a dedicated space to ask questions about the itinerary, ship, or even arrange activities like bar crawls or slot pulls. 

These groups are a great way to break the ice and begin connecting with fellow guests before your sailing. While onboard, many passengers will continue to utilize the group to coordinate meet-ups, inquire about events, and share tips and experiences. 

To find your group, all you have to do is search your ship name and sailing date. Here are a few examples:

• Utopia of the Seas May 4-8, 2026
• Ovation of the Seas July 17-24, 2026
• Star of the Seas Aug. 2-9, 2026

Request to sit at a large table during dinner

The Main Dining Room has tables for two, which are ideal for solo travelers who prefer to dine alone. However, there are also larger tables that can accommodate 6, 8, or even 10 passengers. 

If you’d like to sit at a shared table, visit the maître d' on embarkation day. While shared tables aren’t guaranteed, you can make your request, and the crew will do their best to seat you with other passengers. 

Another option for those who want more flexibility is My Time Dining. If you meet guests you’d like to dine with during your cruise, you can request the next available table during the dining room’s operating hours.

Book a specialty restaurant with a shared table

Two specialty restaurants — the Chef's Table and Izumi Hibachi — have shared tables that encourage conversation among guests. While the meals aren't included in your cruise fare, they could be worth the extra charge if you want a more interactive and social dining experience. 

Even if you don't walk away with a new lifelong friend, the culinary experience is leagues above the standard fare in the dining room. At Izumi, for example, you can enjoy a lively Teppanyaki meal, complete with fried rice and your choice of protein prepared right in front of you!

The Chef's Table is the ultimate food experience on any Royal Caribbean ship. The six-course meal includes a wine pairing that's carefully selected to complement the savory appetizers, flaky fish, and decadent dessert. 

Read more: Guide to Izumi Sushi and Hibachi restaurant

Visit Adventure Ocean

If you aren't sailing alone but are worried about your children getting bored or feeling "stuck" with mom and dad, encourage them to visit Adventure Ocean, Royal Caribbean's award-winning youth program. 

The age-specific activities are supervised by trained staff, so you can have peace of mind while enjoying some much-needed adult-only time. 

After "graduating" from Adventure Ocean, pre-teens and teens can enjoy dedicated spaces just for them, including Social020, Social100, and the Living Room. 

Finally, young adults shouldn't overlook the Hyperlink events, which target guests between the ages of 18 and 25. Activities range from trivia to "frat" games and nightclub meet-ups. 

If they don't make a friend on the first visit, there are plenty of opportunities to try again. Just like in school, it is nearly impossible to make a solid connection in homeroom. 

Start a conversation at the bar

People (myself included) tend to get chattier after a drink or two. While I might find myself feeling reserved, I'll typically begin warming up to new people halfway through a drink. 

Royal Caribbean ships have the perfect bar for everyone, whether you like singing along to tunes at the pub or relaxing with a glass of wine at Vintages. 

Starting a conversation can be as easy as asking someone what drink they ordered or bonding over a favorite song. 

Join a trivia team

Trivia is a popular cruise ship activity and is offered multiple times throughout any sailing. Themes range from music to Harry Potter, geography, logos, and general knowledge. 

Royal Caribbean’s activities team allows players to form teams, which is a great way to bridge gaps in knowledge among team members.

If you show up alone, try seeking out a smaller team to join. Even if you aren't confident in your knowledge, trivia competitions are an easy way to break the ice and introduce yourself to others. 

Hang out in the Suite or Crown Lounge

Talking to cruisers in the Crown Lounge is a great way to meet like-minded travelers who also enjoy cruising. It's easy to strike up a conversation about your favorite ship, destination, or Cruise Director! 

The more you visit, the more chances you’ll have to mingle with others. Consider stopping by in the morning to use the upgraded coffee machine, as well as at night for a cocktail before dinner. 

The Suite Lounge has a similar vibe, though it's accessible by all guests staying in a suite, not just dedicated loyalty members with at least 80 cruise points. 

Read more: Inside Royal Caribbean's Crown Lounge: Perks, Access & What to Expect

Speak up during excursions 

While there are plenty of chances to meet new guests on the ship, it's just as easy to connect with fellow passengers on shore excursions. 

Since you'll be together for a few hours, whether on a bus during a panoramic sightseeing tour or on a boat for an afternoon snorkeling excursion, you have ample time to strike up a conversation about a shared experience. Perhaps you saw a sea turtle grazing on the ocean floor or enjoyed marveling at a historic landmark in Rome. 

During a snorkeling tour in St. Thomas, my partner and I happened to sit next to two couples who had either resided or were currently living in North Carolina, just like we do! 

The Main Dining Room is a staple experience on Royal Caribbean cruises. However, many passengers may opt to skip the dining room in favor of specialty restaurants or a quicker, casual meal at the buffet, leaving them wondering if they should tell their waitstaff that they won't be there for dinner. 

The question was recently asked in a Royal Caribbean dining Facebook group, where a cruiser debated whether they should let their waiter know about the nights they plan on dining elsewhere. 

"We have reserved specialty dining on days 3, 4, [and] 5 of our upcoming 8-day trip. Should we let the [Main Dining Room] know that we won’t be there for those dinners but WILL be back for days 6 & 7?" they asked. 

While you aren't required to let your waiter know, many cruisers consider it common courtesy. 

If you choose traditional dining (i.e., the early or late seating) and know you’ll be missing a night (or two), it's polite to let them know. 

That way, they won't be waiting on you and can better manage their table assignments and service flow for the dinner seating. It also helps them know if the table will be used for My Time Dining guests. 

The responses were largely in agreement, stating that it's polite to let your waitstaff know when you won't be there. 

"We always let our waiters know when we will not be there," said one user. 

Another added, "Assuming you have the traditional, set dining time, common courtesy would be to let your waiter know you won't be there on those nights so the waiter and your fellow table mates are not waiting on you before starting their meal."

"[T]hey will tell you it's not necessary, but it is common courtesy to let them know," someone else agreed. 

One cruiser wrote, "It's simple courtesy to let them know the evening before as often the waiters will have prepared for you to show up. Our waiters frequently have our preferred beverage ready and even the cheese plate that we usually order to share at the table."

If you have My Time Dining, your server may ask you to request them the next night. If you have no intention of returning to the dining room, you can simply say that you have other plans. 

However, if they don't ask, there's no need to inform them, as My Time Dining is on a first-come, first-served basis — it's not expected that you will have the same waitstaff each night, like with traditional dining. 

If you have traditional dining, you can relax knowing that your assigned table and servers will be ready to welcome you each night you choose to eat in the dining room, even if you skip a few.

Read more: Royal Caribbean My Time Dining versus Traditional Dining

Why cruisers might skip the Main Dining Room

The Main Dining Room is designed to be a flexible option for cruisers. Although many choose to eat there every night since it's included in your cruise fare, others may prefer the intimate setting of specialty restaurants. 

You can either purchase a specialty dining package or pay the individual cover charges at restaurants like Izumi, Chops Grille, Hooked, and more. 

Another reason passengers might skip the dining room is for a quick meal at the buffet, rather than devoting time to a multi-course dinner. There are also more choices than in the dining room, so you can mix and match to create your perfect plate. 

The good thing is that you can choose how you want to mix up your cruise dining experience (or not). 

And if you do decide on a whim to skip the dining room, it's okay. Cruising is all about flexibility, and your waiter will understand the last-minute change of plans. 

Read more: 11 reasons eating at the cruise buffet instead of the dining room is better

Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas has windowless cabins for budget-conscious travelers and lavish suites for high-end cruisers. However, you'll also find plenty of mid-range options for those who prioritize comfort without breaking the bank. 

Historically, suites on Royal Caribbean's newest ships aren't cheap. The Ultimate Family Townhouse, for example, costs well over $15,000 per person on a weeklong cruise. Although Star Class suites come with the most perks, entry-level suites still offer plenty of value and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Paul Cranston shared images of his Junior Suite on Star of the Seas in the Star of the Seas 2025/2026 Facebook group, showing a spacious cruise cabin, modern décor, and a larger-than-usual balcony. 

Junior Suites are typically the most abundant suite category available. On Star of the Seas, for example, there are over 60 Junior Suites on Decks 9, 10, and 11. 

The price of Junior Suites on Star of the Seas varies. At the time of publication, a Junior Suite for two on the October 18, 2026, voyage starts at $9,417.84. However, the price increases to nearly $12,230 on a weeklong cruise on Star in July 2027. 

Here's a photo tour of a Junior Suite on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship, sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Inside Junior Suite #10130 on Star of the Seas

During Cranston's cruise, he stayed in room #10130, a forward Junior Suite located over 10 cabins away from the elevator bank.

With 322 sq. ft. of interior living space, it's larger than standard oceanview balconies, which come in at around 204 sq. ft. The Junior Suite's balcony is bigger, too. Where standard balconies measure 50 sq. ft, the Junior Suite's personal verandah is 80 sq. ft. 

As the mega-ship's entry-level suite, the living and sleeping area is combined, rather than having a separate bedroom. Still, the layout feels open and airy. 

On older ships, the Junior Suite's bed is positioned against one of the cabin's walls, which can make the space feel slightly more enclosed. On Star of the Seas, however, the bed faces the balcony, allowing guests to wake up to natural light and enjoy the passing scenery. 

According to the ship's deck plan, the Junior Suites can accommodate up to four guests: two in the Royal King (or two twin) beds and two on the double sofa bed. Someone else in the comments added that when they stayed in room #10554, there was plenty of extra space for a portable crib. 

Moving on, Cranston's photos show that his Junior Suite on Star of the Seas had ample storage, a well-appointed bathroom, a small seating area, and a vanity area. 

As such, it's a versatile choice for couples or families who want more space but don't necessarily want to pay for a larger suite. 

The bathroom is designed with a large vanity and tub-shower combination. Conversely, standard cabins have a small sink area and a standalone shower. 

Still, the highlight of the Junior Suite is the 80 sq. ft. balcony. The private verandah has upgraded seating, an outdoor dining table, and a plush chair with a footrest. 

What perks come with a Junior Suite on Star of the Seas?

Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite Class is comprised of three different tiers: Sea, Sky, and Star. The Junior Suite falls within the entry-level Sea tier. As such, it comes with fewer benefits than Sky and Star Class suites.

Perks for the Sea Class Junior Suite include: 

• Dedicated Check-In Line
• Priority Boarding
• Dinner At Coastal Kitchen, Based On Availability (Reservations Required)
• Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes
• Luxury Pillow Top Mattress and Linen
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine

Read more: Photos show what suites on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas look like

A certain number of Junior Suites are classified as Sky Junior Suites. The rooms themselves are the same, but they come with upgraded Sky Class benefits. 

The perks, however, come with a greater price tag. For example, a standard Junior Suite on Star of the Seas' Feb. 14, 2027, sailing starts at $3,767 per person, while a Sky Junior Suite comes in at $4,796 per person. As such, the Sky Junior Suite is nearly $2,000 more for the weeklong Caribbean voyage. 

Sky Class benefits on Royal Caribbean ships include: 

• Concierge Service All-Day
• All-Day Access To Coastal Kitchen (Reservations Required For Dinner)
• Specialty Bottled Water
• VOOM, The Fastest Internet At Sea (Until May 2026)
• Flexible Arrival Boarding & Priority Departure
• Priority Dining Reservations
• Reserved Entertainment Seating
• Suite Lounge Access
• Access To Suite Sun Deck (The Grove)
• Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes
• Luxury Pillow Top Mattress and Linen
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine

One company is pushing to build a brand-new cruise terminal in Tampa, Florida, that could accommodate larger ships. 

SSA Marine, a marine terminal operator that's been around since 1949, said it's working with Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC on a multi-berth cruise port in Manatee County, according to the company's proposal. 

The terminal would be built on a roughly 328-acre coastal property known as the Knott‑Cowen tract at the mouth of Tampa Bay next to the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge. If approved, construction would take three to five years. 

Currently, only smaller ships, like Grandeur of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas, Carnival Paradise, Norwegian Star, Celebrity Constellation, and Margaritaville at Sea's Islander, can sail from Tampa due to the height restrictions of the Skyway Bridge. As such, a new cruise port on the seaward side of the bridge would allow larger, more innovative ships to call Tampa home. 

"A new cruise port will complement existing cruise activities in the region by being able to accommodate the newer, larger, low-emissions cruise vessels that would otherwise be unable to visit due to the height restrictions of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge," reads the proposal's website. 

"As cruise ships continue to modernize, the region will be well positioned to align with and support the cruise industry’s future growth. Additionally, locating a new cruise port on the seaward side of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge could serve as a valuable community asset in the event of extreme weather or other emergency situations."

Read more: I cruised Royal Caribbean from Tampa for the first time

Tampa's new port project is in the early planning phase and has not been officially approved yet

Although the project is still in the early planning phase, meaning it is subject to zoning and other necessary approvals, initial work to identify and evaluate potential environmental, traffic, noise, and public access considerations has already begun. 

The website notes that "these topics will be addressed in greater detail as part of the approval process, and opportunities for public input will be provided before any final decisions are made."

Public input will also be an important part of the process, including hearings with the Manatee County Planning Commission and the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners. 

SSA Marine Division is committed to environmental stewardship as a central part of this cruise port project. The company recently acquired the adjacent 710-acre Rattlesnake Key property through its subsidiary, the Rattlesnake Key Preservation Company, for $18 million. 

They aim to prevent private commercialization and ensure long-term conservation. Rattlesnake Key is one of the most intact natural landscapes at the mouth of Tampa Bay and is known for its expansive mangrove forests, bird rookeries, shallow-water wetlands, and fish nursery habitat. 

Moving on, SSA Marine Division estimates that the project could have a significant economic impact, with the construction investment of the project estimated to generate more than 31,000 jobs in industries directly and indirectly related to the port in the state and region. 

Once operational, the new terminal is projected to support over 13,000 direct, indirect, and induced jobs and generate roughly $40 million per year in tax revenue for the county and school district, while contributing billions to the state and regional economy.

Port Tampa Bay had record-breaking numbers in 2025

The Western Florida cruise port welcomed over 1.6 million cruise passengers in 2025, along with over 262,000 shipping containers, Spectrum Bay News 9 reported. 

Port Tampa Bay is in the midst of working on its $1.2 billion "Master Plan 2030" vision, which includes building warehouses, expanding terminals, and even constructing a brand-new passenger terminal. 

"For us, it’s playing, maintaining the maritime industry, protecting it, allowing it to grow, prosper and integrating ourselves with our future plans and the growth of the region — the city of Tampa," Port Tampa Bay Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Raul Alfonso told Spectrum News.

Since Alaska is part of the United States, many travelers wonder whether they need a passport for an Alaskan cruise.

The Alaska cruise season is short, with Royal Caribbean sailings beginning in early May and going through September. As such, planning ahead is important. 

Because voyages don't run year-round, it's not uncommon for Alaska cruises to sell out in advance. Before booking, travelers must have proper documentation to avoid last-minute surprises. 

Certain voyages require all passengers, regardless of nationality, to have a valid passport, while U.S. citizens can get away with bringing a valid birth certificate and government-issued photo ID on others. 

Here's everything you need to know about whether you need a passport to cruise to Alaska or not. 

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Alaska?

Not all Alaskan cruises require passengers to have a passport. However, before booking your dream voyage to The Last Frontier, it's important to understand the various caveats. 

For starters, if you're not a U.S. citizen, you will need a valid passport on embarkation day to board your Alaska cruise, regardless of where it starts or ends. 

Similarly, U.S. citizens need a valid passport for one-way cruises from Seward, Alaska, or Vancouver, Canada. These include "Northbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier" and "Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier" itineraries. 

Passports are also required on round-trip cruises from Canada. In 2026, for example, Royal Caribbean is offering round-trip sailings from Vancouver on Serenade of the Seas. 

However, you aren't out of luck if you don't have a valid passport; U.S. citizens on a round-trip (or closed-loop) sailing from Seattle, Washington, don't need a passport for Alaska cruises. 

You'll notice on every round-trip sailing from Seattle that Royal Caribbean's ships stop in Victoria, British Columbia. This is because closed-loop cruises from the U.S. must visit a foreign port of call so as not to violate the Passenger Vessel Services Act. Don't worry — you still don't need a passport for these itineraries. That said, having one is always, always recommended. 

Read more: You can take a cruise without a passport, but some require one

What's the best Alaska cruise itinerary?

One-way cruises tend to be more immersive since less time is spent in transit from the continental United States. For example, one-way cruises often include a glacier viewing day at Hubbard Glacier, which is rare to find on round-trip sailings from Washington or Vancouver. 

Another benefit to one-way cruises is that it's easier to explore inland Alaska before or after your sailing. Seward, Alaska, for example, is about 360 miles from the Denali National Park and Preserve. Royal Caribbean will even take care of the planning if you book one of their cruisetours.

Sometimes, they're cheaper than round-trip cruises, too. Since planning pre- and post-cruise travel from two different destinations is more costly, it's not uncommon for cruise lines, Royal Caribbean included, to price these itineraries competitively to encourage travelers to choose them.

Round-trip sailings from Seattle, on the other hand, are the only option for travelers without a passport. While you won't visit remote glaciers, these itineraries still call at must-visit Alaskan ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, with scenic cruising through the Inside Passage.

In 2026, Royal Caribbean is deploying two ships to Washington: Anthem of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas. Two ships — Ovation of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas — will also offer cruises from Seward and Vancouver. As such, you can experience The Last Frontier on a Quantum Class ship regardless of whether you choose a one-way or round-trip sailing.

Read more: How to choose the right Alaska cruise itinerary

Alaska cruise cost in 2026

The cost of an Alaska cruise varies greatly based on which month you sail, as well as your stateroom category. 

June, July, and August see the highest demand. As such, cruise fares can be more expensive during the summer months. On the flip side, the shoulder season months of May and September see less demand and, therefore, more competitive prices. 

Additionally, interior, ocean-view, balcony cabins, and suites all come with varying price points. Windowless inside staterooms are typically the cheapest, with balconies and suites offering more space and premium views — along with a higher price tag. 

At the time of publication, the cheapest Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise in 2026 is aboard Ovation of the Seas on August 21. Inside cabins start at $657 per person, while the price of a balcony shoots up to $1,055 per person. 

The one-way cruise departs from Vancouver, British Columbia, and has scheduled visits to Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Skagway, and Hubbard Glacier before ending in Seward. 

The cheapest round-trip cruise is aboard Voyager of the Seas from Seattle on the Sept. 11, 2026, sailing. Prices start at $714 per person for a standard interior stateroom, with the cost of a balcony increasing to $1,694 per person. 

In addition to the base cruise fare, you'll have to factor in the price of add-ons like drink packages, specialty meals, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions. Ship-sponsored tours in Alaska tend to be pricier in Alaska than in The Bahamas or Caribbean. 

For example, it is not uncommon to see excursions for once-in-a-lifetime experiences like visiting a sled dog musher's camp or a glacier helicopter ride cost $250 or more per person. 

Read more: I booked a 7-day cruise to Alaska for $1,500 per person, but spent nearly $2,400 with extras. Take a closer look at how much my cruise cost

One cruise passenger missed their ship's departure in Port Canaveral, Florida, after traveling to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. They then tried to meet up with the Oasis Class ship in Nassau. However, their request was denied, causing them to miss out on their entire cruise vacation. 

Nobody wants their long-awaited vacation ruined before it even begins. Unfortunately, that was the case for Redditor Crispy-Don, who shared how they accidentally missed Utopia of the Seas' departure from Port Canaveral on January 12, 2026, in the r/royalcaribbean thread. 

"[W]e pulled a major travel fail today and showed up at Port Everglades instead of Port Canaveral (which is 3 hours away from Fort Lauderdale). We’ve obviously missed the ship’s departure. We are currently at FLL trying to book a flight to Nassau to meet the ship tomorrow morning," they wrote. 

"We have already contacted Royal Caribbean’s emergency travel line to request approval for a "downline join" in Nassau. They told us they have to review it and will email us if approved." 

Initially, Crispy-Don planned to spend the night in Fort Lauderdale and catch an 8:00 a.m. flight to Nassau on Tuesday, Jan. 13, from Miami International Airport (MIA). 

However, their hopes of rejoining the ship were quickly thwarted by Royal Caribbean, which proved that meeting up with a cruise in the next port of call isn't always a guarantee. 

In a follow-up post, Crispy-Don explained that they received an email from the cruise line, denying their request to board Utopia of the Seas in Nassau. 

(Credit: Crispy-Don/Reddit)

"We regret to inform you that your request to embark in Nassau, Bahamas has been denied by port authorities. The reason provided does not meet the established criteria for authorization to embark at an alternate port of call. Please note that this decision is final and cannot be appealed," the email reads. 

According to their post, Crispy-Don said that they told the cruise line they had confused Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale for Port Canaveral and were over 3 hours away by the time they realized the mistake on embarkation day. 

Despite the disappointment, Crispy-Don took full responsibility for the mistake, saying, "Obviously we [are] crushed as we booked our Nassau flight tickets (refundable) hoping it would work, but this was my own mistake to learn from. Good to know that Royal won’t just green light you to join at a different port."

In the end, Crispy-Don lost about $1,000 on two cruise fares, though with Royal Caribbean refunding taxes and fees of roughly $200, the actual loss was closer to $800.

Other users flocked to the comments to share their own travel mishaps

Perhaps because it was the way that Crispy-Don handled the situation (i.e., taking responsibility and not taking their frustration out on the cruise line), but Redditors flooded the comments with support, sharing their own travel mistakes. 

"I once missed a flight because I went to the gate of my seat number instead of the correct gate which was in a different terminal. My seat number gate was completely empty and I sat there like an idiot until it was too late," one person wrote. 

Another added, "Was going through a divorce and needed to get away. Booked last minute trip. Price was really good. I arrived at my big city airport. Good news; my ticket was for that day; bad news; not for that year."

Read more: I spent 73 days on Royal Caribbean cruise ships this year. Here are 6 travel mistakes I won't be making in 2026

The cruiser's unfortunate incident serves as a cautionary tale to always check and double-check every aspect of your travel plans before departure

Cruising is essentially a form of time-sensitive travel. As such, flights, pre-cruise accommodations, and embarkation details require careful attention before and during your vacation. 

If you arrive at the port too late, whether because of an unexpected traffic jam or flight delay, you may miss your cruise ship entirely. So, it's important to plan ahead. For example, if you know you need to fly to your embarkation port, plan on arriving at least one day before embarkation. 

The same goes for during your sailing. If you venture off the ship alone, whether independently or with a third-party tour agency, give yourself a buffer to return before the all-aboard time. 

A few Redditors thanked Crispy-Don, as his experience was a reminder to double-check their own travel details ahead of time. 

"Whew made me double check that I am indeed flying into Orlando and not [Fort Lauderdale]," said one user. 

Another commented, "I’m sorry this happened. I leave on a cruise on Friday and I’m checking to make sure I have the right port."

The Government of The Bahamas is planning on developing a new cruise port. However, unlike Nassau, Freeport, Bimini, and other cruise line private destinations, the island has remained largely undeveloped and sparsely populated.

On January 7, 2026, the Office of the Prime Minister announced its intention to develop a cruise port on the island of Mayaguana, The Bahamas' easternmost island, through a new public-private partnership.

"The Office of the Prime Minister advises that the Government of The Bahamas has entered into a Public Private Partnership (PPP) to advance the Port at Mayaguana, a major maritime and logistics project intended to strengthen economic activity in Mayaguana and across the South East Bahamas," the press release reads. 

Continuing on, "This PPP positions Mayaguana to play a stronger role in regional trade, cruise activity, and related services."

As such, the new port won't be designed to cater solely to cruise tourism; it will also serve as a cargo port for vessels heading to the Panama Canal and other major ports. 

The new port project is to be jointly owned by the Government of The Bahamas, the Mayaguana Island Development Fund, and Global Lead Consultant Group Limited. Development will be split into three phases:

1. Construction of a "Temporary Marine Offloading Facility (TMOF)" and a deep-water port
2. Cruise ship terminal construction
3. Deep-water port enhancements and a terminal for larger vessels, plus adjacent land development and handling components

Detailed planning will continue in 2026. At the time of publication, the timeline for when the new port would welcome cruise passengers was unknown. 

Based on preliminary estimates included in the press release, the project team anticipates the venture will create approximately 2,000 full-time jobs.

"The Government will continue to keep the public informed as the project advances through required approvals and consultation processes, with a focus on jobs for Bahamians, strong standards, and clear community benefits for Mayaguana," the press release concludes. 

Where is Mayaguana?

(Credit: Google Earth)

The 110-square-mile island is roughly 66 miles west of Turks and Caicos and approximately 334 miles southeast of Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas. Additionally, according to the Islands of The Bahamas Visitor Guide, Mayaguana has a population of just 277, based on the 2010 census. 

Its location makes it ideal for Eastern Caribbean itineraries, positioning the island as a strategic stop between developed cruise ports like Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. 

Mayaguana was once home to the Lucayans, the original inhabitants of The Bahamas, and a branch of the Arawak Indian tribe. In fact, Mayaguana is the only Bahamian island that has retained its original Arawak name over the years. 

In addition to its small population and laid-back villages, the island is renowned for its unspoiled beaches, including Horse Pond Beach, Pirate's Well, and Betsy Cay. 

It's also surrounded by largely untouched coral reefs, offering great snorkeling and diving opportunities. For divers, specifically, the offshore reefs reach depths of 45 to 60 feet. 

Nobody wants to get sick on vacation. Unfortunately, one family's New Year's cruise became one they'd never forget — all thanks to the new "super flu."

Ellie Doyle, a mom from Connecticut who shares her family adventures on social media under the name @reheatedcoffeeclub, posted multiple videos about her experience on Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas. 

What was supposed to be a fun getaway to celebrate her parents' 50th wedding anniversary quickly turned into a stressful vacation when her daughter fell ill on the first night. 

Doyle is an avid cruiser who grew up in Florida and has previously sailed on multiple lines, including Disney, Norwegian, and MSC. However, even with years of cruising experience under her belt, Doyle said this outbreak was unlike anything she had experienced at sea before. 

"If you guys have seen the Netflix documentary 'Poop Cruise,' this was like 'Puke Cruise'"

(Credit: @reheatedcoffeeclub/TikTok)

Doyle recalled a terrifying night spent in the ship's medical center in a TikTok posted shortly after the vacation ended. 

On the first night of the 7-night cruise to Nassau, San Juan, and St. Thomas, her two-year-old daughter, Norah, woke up coughing and wheezing. 

Because she was diagnosed with childhood asthma, they tried to rush her to the ship's medical center. However, it took them 15-20 minutes and a few inconvenient roadblocks to actually locate it on Deck 1. 

(Credit: @reheatedcoffeeclub/TikTok)

Doyle's family didn't have travel insurance, so the nurse began explaining that all treatment would have to be paid out-of-pocket. 

"So while Norah is like wheezing, [the nurse is] like, 'So it's gonna be a $250 inspection, and then it's gonna be whatever medicine she needs, whatever treatments, it's just gonna keep going up,'" Doyle said. 

The first thing Norah received was a nebulizer treatment to ease her breathing. She was also prescribed an antibiotic and a steroid for inflamed airways. 

(Credit: @reheatedcoffeeclub/TikTok)

Additionally, while Doyle was at the medical center with her daughter, the nurse and doctor were clear that Norah’s condition wasn't a medical emergency. As such, they could not turn the ship around. Doyle, however, never asked if that was an option. 

Ironically, according to Doyle in another TikTok, the ship had to change its course twice to evacuate other passengers who required urgent care.

During the sailing, they returned to Nassau and Turks & Caicos, which wasn't on the itinerary, to evacuate the critically ill guests. 

The "super flu" swept through her family of 21 

Thankfully, Norah tested negative for the flu. However, Doyle told the Daily Mail that more than a dozen other family members ended up testing positive for the flu. There were a total of 21 people, including Doyle, her husband Michael, their three children, and four siblings, traveling together. 

Their son Porter was the next person to get sick, followed by their six-year-old daughter Maisie. The bug continued to spread through the family, infecting Doyle's 77-year-old dad, 73-year-old mom, three nephews, and two adult siblings. 

The symptoms weren't consistent, either. Some had a sore throat, body aches, a fever, and congestion. In other cases, the symptoms were milder. 

"[I don't think Royal Caribbean] was prepared for the amount of people that were gonna be sick at once," she added. 

Doyle recalled seeing multiple public bathrooms closed during the sailing, saying, "I have a sneaking suspicion [that it's] because of all the puke on the cruise."

Massive spike in flu activity nationwide

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there was a 24.7% increase in people testing positive for influenza between Dec. 27, 2025, and Jan. 3, 2026. 

While this marked a slight decrease from the week prior, infection levels remained high, with the most frequently reported influenza viruses this week being influenza A (H3N2), known as subclade K and dubbed the new "super flu."

During that same week, most reported influenza cases were type A, with H3N2 accounting for over 90% of subtyped cases.

Moreover, weekly hospitalization rates remained elevated at 54.1 per 100,000 residents. Of those, 39,945 patients were admitted to hospitals with influenza. 

The CDC estimates that, so far this season, there have been at least 15 million illnesses, 180,000 hospitalizations, and 7,400 deaths from the flu.

Symptoms of the "super flu" include:

• Fever and chills, often above 100.4°F
• Severe muscle and body aches
• Fatigue
• Cough and sore throat
• Headache or head pressure
• Nasal congestion or a runny nose

Norovirus cases have also been on the rise

Norovirus is a highly contagious stomach bug that's often referred to as the "cruise ship virus." However, that nickname is misleading. According to the CDC, norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships account for around 1% of all reported outbreaks.

In reality, norovirus cases are on the rise at sea and on land. Concentrations have risen 45% since November, Marlene Wolfe, Ph.D., professor at Emory University and program director at WastewaterSCAN, told TODAY.com.

Between Aug. 1 and Dec. 11, 2025, 268 norovirus outbreaks were reported by states in the CDC’s NoroSTAT program, including Wisconsin, Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, Oregon, Ohio, North Carolina, New Mexico, New Hampshire, Nebraska, Minnesota, Michigan, and Massachusetts. 

Norovirus is spreading rapidly in part because of a newer strain, GII.17, that emerged in Asia about a decade ago, with the CDC reporting that GII.17 was responsible for 75% of norovirus outbreaks in the U.S. during the 2024–2025 season.

I’ve been cruising with Royal Caribbean since I was 11. Over the past 15 years, I’ve sailed on nearly a dozen of their ships, gaining extensive firsthand experience along the way.

Nothing comes close to your first cruise, though. Even if it is on an older vessel, like Grandeur of the Seas, the excitement of stepping onboard and exploring the ship is unforgettable. 

Still, before you dream of sipping poolside piña coladas, planning dreamy shore excursions, or dropping your kids off at Adventure Ocean, it's important to understand what to expect on the cruise ship. 

From knowing what’s included in your cruise fare to understanding the cruise contract's policies and dining options, a little preparation can go a long way in making your first Royal Caribbean cruise enjoyable and stress-free. 

Here are 9 things everyone should know before their first Royal Caribbean cruise. 

New doesn't always mean better

I've sailed on ships as old as Vision of the Seas and as new as Icon of the Seas. While there’s no denying that the gigantic Icon Class mega-ships are impressive, they certainly aren’t for everyone. 

Older vessels offer a level of intimacy that larger ships simply can’t replicate. Rather than focusing on flashy attractions, the emphasis is on connecting with the sea and with fellow passengers. 

As a result, you won’t find water parks, surfing simulators, or ice skating rinks onboard, but that doesn’t make these ships bad. 

Pros of smaller ships include diverse itineraries, a greater focus on intimacy, more affordable fares, better quality control, and less nickel-and-diming. 

That said, if Royal Caribbean's commercials showcasing adrenaline-pumping attractions are what first caught your attention, a smaller ship won't deliver the experience you’re expecting — just be prepared to pay a premium. 

Read more: I've cruised on one of Royal Caribbean's smallest ships and one of its biggest. I was surprised how much I liked the small ones

Travel agents can help save time and money

It can be hard to give up control over your vacation, but trust me — you won't regret working with a travel agent. A good agent will meet you wherever you are in the planning process, whether you're trying to pick an itinerary, ship, or cabin. 

They can break down the pros and cons of different staterooms, suggest excursions, make pre-cruise travel arrangements, and even talk with Royal Caribbean on your behalf if plans change. 

If you’re lucky, your agent may have access to a special group rate for your sailing, which could save you hundreds compared to the fare advertised on the cruise line’s website.

Read more: Top things you didn't know travel agents can do for your cruise vacation

Passports aren't always required, but they're always recommended 

Although passports are recommended for all cruises, whether a short 3-night voyage to CocoCay or a port-intensive voyage to The Last Frontier, they aren't always required.

Still, it is in your best interest to travel with a valid passport on any cruise. Unexpected itinerary changes or medical emergencies could require you to disembark the ship early and re-enter the United States by air. In those situations, a passport will minimize delays, stress, and complications.

Plus, having a passport will open doors to a wider range of itineraries. When you're traveling with a valid birth certificate and government-issued photo ID, you’re limited to closed-loop sailings that depart from and return to the same U.S. port. With a passport, however, you can sail on international itineraries and unique one-way voyages. 

On a similar note, if you do have a passport, check its expiration date well in advance of your cruise. Royal Caribbean defines a valid passport as one that's not set to expire within six months of your return date. 

So, for example, if your cruise ends on August 15, 2026, your passport needs to be valid through at least February 15, 2027, to meet the six-month requirement.

Read more: You can take a cruise without a passport, but some require one

Speak up if you have a problem

Whether it’s an issue with your cabin or a concern about the dining room's food quality, it's important to address any problems early to make things better on your vacation. 

Crew members are there to help. If Guest Services doesn't have an answer, they will direct you to the correct department. 

For example, if you are unhappy with your service in the Main Dining Room, ask to speak to the head waiter to alert them of the problem. Additionally, Guest Services can help resolve billing disputes. 

You don't have to sit through every event

Cruise ships have seemingly endless activities, from trivia competitions to sports tournaments, production shows, karaoke, themed parties, and more. 

It's tempting to want to do it all, but trying to cram every activity into your schedule is exhausting. Instead, don't feel like you have to commit to full events. Rather than sitting through an entire evening of karaoke, you can start your evening by listening to a few songs, trying your luck in the casino, and ending by attending a late-night dance party. 

One of the great things about a Royal Caribbean cruise is that the schedule was designed to be flexible, so you can enjoy what interests you without feeling like you're missing out on other experiences. 

Keep all essentials in your cruise carry-on bag

When you arrive at the cruise terminal, you will be greeted by a porter who will ensure your suitcases are properly tagged; you won't see them until you've boarded. 

Because it could be hours until your bags are delivered to your stateroom, you will want to have important documentation and other valuables packed in your carry-on bags. 

This includes passports (or your birth certificate/valid photo ID), credit cards, jewelry, electronics, and medication. Some cruisers also like to bring a swimsuit on board to enjoy the pool deck on the first day. 

If you are carrying on soda or a bottle of wine, you'll also want to pack it in your carry-on. Note that security has the right to search for prohibited liquids, such as hard liquor, beer, and hard seltzers.

Read more: 15 things to pack in your cruise carry-on

Don't forget to bring cash

Although your cruise card serves as your identification, credit card, and room key, you may also want to bring a little cash with you. 

Cash is useful for tipping cabin stewards, bartenders, and dining room waitstaff. It's also required when playing table games in the ship's casino. 

That said, cash is also handy when going ashore for excursions, where cards may not always be accepted. Local artisans, for example, might not have a card reader to accept payments. 

If you're traveling abroad, like to Europe or Australia, make sure you bring the local currency with you. While USD is generally accepted in The Bahamas and the Caribbean, you won't be able to buy anything with U.S. dollars in places like Norway, Spain, or Italy. 

Read more: How much cash should you bring on a cruise?

Bring a European power adapter 

If you're sailing on an older Royal Caribbean ship (i.e., Vision, Radiance, Voyager, or Freedom Class vessels), you'll want to bring a European power adapter to maximize your stateroom's charging options. 

For example, when I sailed on Vision of the Seas, there were just two standard American outlets, as well as two 220V European outlets. Between cell phones, laptops, smartwatches, and earphones, it's easy to run out of outlets if you aren't prepared. 

Additionally, there aren't any bedside outlets on older ships. As such, a long charging cable will enable you to charge your devices conveniently from across the room while in bed. 

Read more: The 1-item upgrade you need for a better cruise ship cabin experience (it’s already in your house)

Prepare to be seasick (but hope you aren't)

Even if you've never suffered from motion sickness before, the swaying of a cruise ship can affect anyone. Before your cruise, pack common seasickness remedies, including medication like Bonine and Dramamine, SeaBands, and motion sickness patches. 

When I took my partner on her first cruise, she assumed she wouldn’t get seasick on a short Bahamas voyage. But just a few hours after we set sail, she started feeling unwell, and we had to pick up over-the-counter remedies from Guest Services.

Since then, she's learned to always come prepared. In preparation for our cruise to Bermuda last fall, she got a Scopolamine patch prescribed by her doctor. Although it’s supposed to prevent seasickness, she experienced blurred vision. Now, she prefers to stick with over-the-counter remedies and behind-the-ear patches from Amazon. 

Read more: I tried the most common seasickness hacks on my cruise. Here’s what works best 

Royal Caribbean could be getting close to finalizing an order for a new kind of cruise ship, according to a French media outlet. 

According to the report, Royal Caribbean Group is on the verge of ordering a new class of cruise ships from the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shi[yard in Saint-Nazaire, France.

The report claims the new order is for a class of medium to large tonnage ships for Royal Caribbean International — more specifically, the cruise line's long-awaited Discovery Class. 

The cruise line has been silent on an official announcement, but there have been rumors of the Discovery Class for years.

(Credit: Le Marin)

Royal Caribbean began hinting at a new, smaller ship class in July 2023. During a sailing on Allure of the Seas, Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International's President and CEO, shared that the company was "deeply considering" expanding its fleet with smaller vessels. 

Over the years, Royal Caribbean’s Discovery Class has been one of the most intriguing rumors in the industry. Although the cruise line is known for building giants like Utopia and Icon of the Seas, many claim that the older ships are outdated and don't meet the standards of modern travelers. 

In September, Bayley seemed to confirm that the Discovery Class project was moving forward, revealing tidbits like where the cruise line expected to deploy the ships and their estimated size. However, he was firm in emphasizing that no formal announcement could be made at that time.

For example, although he didn't give exact measurements, Bayley said that Discovery Class ships would be small enough to sail through the Panama Canal. 

To date, the largest cruise ship to successfully sail through the Panama Canal was the Norwegian Bliss. Based on this fact, it's fairly safe to assume that the Discovery Class ships won't be larger than 168,000 gross tons and 1,094 feet long.

Additionally, instead of offering voyages to The Bahamas or the Caribbean, markets that are heavily dominated by Oasis and Icon Class ships, Discovery vessels will likely sail to exotic ports in regions like the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia, Alaska, and the South Pacific.

While details still have not been confirmed, the promise of a smaller class of ships that combines innovation with access to smaller ports has generated significant excitement among loyal Royal Caribbean fans. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean CEO talks rumored new ship size and where it could sail

What would the order of the Discovery Class ships mean?

If the French article is correct and an official Discovery Class order is in the foreseeable future, it would mean that Royal Caribbean is moving forward with a highly-anticipated project to modernize its offerings by phasing out its older ships. 

It would also mark a strategic shift in Royal Caribbean’s fleet composition, as the older ships would likely be replaced with vessels that are smaller but still packed with upgraded features and amenities, such as modern staterooms, new dining concepts, innovative entertainment options, and more. 

That said, based on past projects, even if the Discovery Class is ordered soon, passengers won’t see the first ship for several years. 

Royal Caribbean, for example, placed an order for the first Icon Class ships in Oct. 2016. Steel-cutting Icon of the Seas didn't begin until June 2021, with Icon's maiden voyage commencing in Jan. 2024. 

Similarly, in Feb. 2024, Royal Caribbean ordered the seventh Oasis Class ship from the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard. This unnamed vessel isn't expected to enter service until 2028. 

Another ship class too?

In addition to this possible ship class in France, there's another project on the horizon.

In September, Royal Caribbean confirmed the order of the fifth Icon Class ship with Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. However, the announcement also alluded to the possibility of another ship class. 

"This multi-year agreement strengthens Royal Caribbean Group's relationship with Meyer Turku, one of the world's largest and most modern shipyards specializing in cruise ships, and readies Royal Caribbean Group for a new, game-changing class of ship beyond Icon," the press release said. 

This could possibly mean, because again, this is all speculation, that Royal Caribbean is actively planning more than one new class of ships. 

Even as the company looks forward to welcoming at least three more Icon Class vessels to the fleet, it appears that they're also focusing on long-term investment in innovation and fleet diversification.

Additionally, the mention of the "game-changing" class emphasizes that Royal Caribbean wants to maintain an edge in the cruise industry, a position it has held for well over a decade since the launch of Freedom of the Seas in 2006. 

Since then, Royal Caribbean has consistently pushed the boundaries of design, entertainment, and technology — both on board and ashore at private destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay and the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. 

To be very clear: We can’t confirm whether Royal Caribbean is planning a class larger than Icon or is on the verge of officially ordering Discovery Class ships. However, it's clear that Royal Caribbean’s ambitions are helping to shape the future of cruising for decades to come.