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. 

Miami-Dade County and Royal Caribbean Group celebrated the groundbreaking of Cruise Terminal G at PortMiami, marking a major milestone in the continued evolution of one of the world's busiest cruise ports. 

The brand-new cruise terminal will cost $345 million and have the capacity to accommodate up to 7,000 passengers. Once completed, it will feature a dedicated parking garage, an intermodal facility, and other essential infrastructure to accommodate the world's largest Icon Class vessels. 

Terminal G will be located adjacent to Virgin Voyages’ Terminal V at PortMiami at the northern tip of Dodge Island. Comparatively, Terminal A is situated on the opposite end of the port. 

According to officials, Terminal G's estimated completion date is late 2027. However, an exact date has yet to be announced. 

"Cruise Terminal G represents a major investment in Miami's future. Built with advanced technology and sustainable design, this new facility will deliver a smarter, faster, more seamless experience for guests sailing with our industry-leading brands: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea," said Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty.

"It reflects what matters most to us: innovation, collaboration, and delivering the world's best vacations responsibly — while creating jobs and supporting the local economy for years to come."

Terminal G initially opened in 1999 to house Voyager of the Seas. At the time, she was the largest, most innovative cruise ship in the world. Voyager was the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet to introduce the Royal Promenade and to feature the industry’s first ice-skating rink at sea.

Since the opening of Terminal A in November 2018, Terminal G has largely functioned as a backup terminal for Royal Caribbean Group. 

As such, it wasn't uncommon for itineraries on older and smaller vessels to depart from Terminal G, reserving Terminal A for mega-ships like Oasis and Icon Class vessels. 

Demolition of the former Terminal G began in July 2025, clearing the way for the future LEED-certified cruise terminal. 

Read more: First look at the new cruise terminal Royal Caribbean is building in Miami

Not only will the terminal highlight the company's sustainability efforts, but it will also showcase cutting-edge technology designed to streamline embarkation and disembarkation. 

"This world-class facility will enhance Miami-Dade County's skyline while marking another milestone in PortMiami's evolution. Our modern terminals are transforming how we do business and move people, delivering greater efficiency through innovative technology," said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.

PortMiami set a record for cruise passenger traffic in 2025

According to Miami officials, PortMiami set a passenger record for fiscal year 2025, which ran from Oct. 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2025. 

The Miami port welcomed 8,564,225 cruise passengers, representing a 4.02% increase in cruise passenger totals compared to the 2024 record of 8,233,056.

This growth reflects the fact that PortMiami is home to some of the world’s largest cruise ships, including Icon of the Seas and MSC World America.

Read more: PortMiami, Port Canaveral set yearly records for cruise passengers

These record-breaking totals translate to significant weekly traffic. Each Saturday, more than 10,000 passengers embark on 7-night sailings to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from the cruise hub between these two vessels alone.

To help meet the growing demand in South Florida, MSC Cruises also opened a massive new terminal in March. The 492,678-square-foot Terminal AA was designed to simultaneously accommodate up to three ships from MSC’s World, Seaside, and Meraviglia Classes. This equates to a maximum of 36,000 embarking and disembarking passengers. 

Can you cruise with a criminal record? The answer isn't cut and dry. 

Understanding how different countries and immigration authorities handle felony records is important to ensuring a hiccup-free vacation. 

In most cases, felons can generally go on a cruise, as there's no law prohibiting someone with a criminal record from boarding a ship. 

Ron Harper, a Licensed Paralegal and owner of OTD Ticket Defenders Legal Service, told Royal Caribbean Blog that lines can deny boarding to individuals with felony convictions.

Additionally, some countries have strict entry restrictions and may refuse entry to felons. Harper explains,

"Just having a ticket to board a ship does not mean you will be allowed to enter each and every port of call."

Cruise lines are allowed to perform background checks

Cruise lines reserve the right to deny boarding to anyone with a criminal history that could put the safety of other passengers and crew at risk. 

"Although there is no federal law that prohibits someone convicted of a felony from boarding a cruise ship, several large cruise lines (e.g., Carnival, Royal Caribbean) perform criminal background checks," Harper said. 

According to Royal Caribbean's website, the cruise line checks booking details against law enforcement registers and its internal records for the safety of all customers.

Carnival Cruise Line also conducts criminal background checks to safeguard Carnival guests and crew members. 

Their website is even more specific, adding that felons convicted of physical and/or sexual assault, armed robbery, and other violent crimes may be denied boarding. 

Where are felons allowed to cruise?

Generally speaking, most convicted felons can cruise to places like The Bahamas and the Caribbean. However, certain countries may restrict entry to people with a criminal record. 

"Most of the travelers believe that if they remain aboard the ship when they visit a port, they are not in trouble, but the fact is that the border agencies know about the ship by its manifest at least 96 hours before arrival," Barry Nussbaum, Owner and Senior Lawyer at Nussbaum Law in Ontario, said. 

Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand are among the countries that felons cannot travel to, even if the departing cruise leaves from the United States. 

According to Canada's laws, anyone with a criminal record is banned from entering the country, regardless of the crime's severity or when it was committed. Even minor offenses, like a DUI from college, may prevent entry unless an application for individual rehabilitation or a temporary resident permit is approved.

"I have witnessed families spend up to $5,000 on non-refundable tickets because they failed to obtain a Temporary Resident Permit or a full-fledged rehabilitation prior to going to the terminal," Nussbaum added.

With Canada being on the itinerary for nearly all Alaska cruises, voyages to The Last Frontier are off-limits to felons. The same applies to Canada/New England sailings from ports like Bayonne, New Jersey; Boston, Massachusetts; and Baltimore, Maryland.

Moreover, Caribbean cruises with scheduled stops in Mexico should be avoided, including popular Western Caribbean ports like Cozumel and Costa Maya, as well as Mexican Riviera destinations such as Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas.

While less severe than Canada's laws, those who have committed a serious crime — think murder, smuggling, tax fraud, human trafficking, and vehicular theft — could be denied entry to Mexico. Generally speaking, minor infractions, like petty theft, are unlikely to prevent entry to Mexico on a cruise. 

Moving on, travelers must meet the country’s character requirements to enter Australia or New Zealand, demonstrating that they are of good character.

When applying for New Zealand's Electronic Travel Authority clearance, travelers are required to disclose any issues or activities that could affect the country's decision. This means you must tell them if you've been involved in criminal or human rights abuse activities, or removed or deported from another country.

Similarly, to obtain the needed Electronic Travel Authority to enter Australia, you must declare all criminal conduct that you've been charged with, even if it is still awaiting legal action. 

Nussbaum summarized that while destinations like The Bahamas or Mexico are generally less restrictive, countries such as Australia and New Zealand have strict character requirements that could make a vacation void before its commencement. 

Harper continued to explain that those on probation may face even more issues:

"Probation can create yet another layer of complexity because, in general, international travel (or even intra-state travel) will require authorization from the probation officer who is responsible for supervising the individual."

If you're like me, you like to make your birthday a multi-day occasion. From dinners with friends to bar hopping and spa days, there are tons of ways to celebrate at home. However, there's nothing like celebrating your special day at sea. 

In fact, my partner and I both decided to celebrate our birthdays on a cruise this year. With nonstop entertainment, multi-course meals, and more, a cruise felt like the ultimate way to ring in our late-20s. 

It won't be the first time I've celebrated someone's birthday on a ship, either. Years ago, I remember my sister’s face flushing with embarrassment on a Disney cruise when the crew surrounded our dinner table and began singing to her.

The best part about taking a cruise for your birthday is how easy it is to make the celebration feel even more special. And yes, you can do way more than blow out a candle at dinner. 

Here are 8 ways you can elevate your birthday cruise and make it even more memorable. 

DISCLAIMER: We’ve included Amazon affiliate links in this article. Shopping through these links won’t cost you anything extra, but Royal Caribbean Blog may earn a small commission on your purchase. Thanks for your support!

Tell your server in the dining room

Like in restaurants at home, cruise waitstaff will bring you a special dessert for your birthday free of charge — if you let them know. Plus, you (or your loved one) will become the center of attention for a minute as they crowd the table and sing a celebratory song.  

If you're traveling with a large party, you can purchase a full-sized cake for a nominal fee. According to the website, each cake costs $25.99 and comes in two flavors: spongy vanilla and decadent chocolate. Additionally, they're 6" round and serve 2 — 10 people. 

Let passengers and crew know you're celebrating with festive door decorations

Decorating cruise cabin doors is a fun and popular tradition. You don't have to be celebrating a birthday to spice up your door with fun magnets. However, it's not uncommon to see doors honoring someone's birthday with colorful décor and festive messages. 

In addition to pre-made birthday magnets, you can add a whiteboard, so fellow passengers can write dedicated birthday messages — just make sure the whiteboard has a magnetic dry-erase marker! 

Here are a few door decoration packs available from Amazon for inspiration: 

• LEIFIDE 12 Pcs Cruise Door Decorations
• Dazoratix Birthday Cruise Door Magnets
• 27PCS Cruise Door Decorations Magnetic, Large Birthday Cruise Magnets
• Xuhal 25 Pcs Birthday Cruise Door Magnets

Spruce up the inside of your cabin

Don't stop at the door! You can also decorate the inside of your cruise stateroom. Some guests prefer to bring their own decorations, including streamers and balloons. You can do this affordably at stores like Dollar Tree or Five Below, just be sure you have enough space in your suitcase to bring everything. 

Alternatively, you can buy Royal Caribbean's decoration kit. One advantage to this option, though more expensive, is that it will be set up upon your arrival if bought through the Cruise Planner. 

For an upcoming cruise on Utopia of the Seas in July 2026, the "Happy Birthday Decorations" pack costs $55.99 and includes a mirror cling, magnetic door sign, wire photo cable with clips, hanging ceiling décor, and one photo frame. 

There are also more expensive options that include fresh roses, a premium birthday cake, Moët Champagne, and more. 

Hide rubber ducks

Hiding rubber ducks has become a popular trend among cruisers, and some guests attach small notes or letters to the ducks to let others know where the hider was from and if they're celebrating anything. 

Instead of just letting your birthday sailor collect their own cruise ducks, you can also hide them around the ship, adding a small sticker or note to let finders know the ducks are part of a fun birthday celebration at sea!

Read more: Hiding ducks on a cruise got an upgrade

Bring a birthday sash

Before you head out the door, make sure you have a special birthday sash to wear on the ship! You can go one step further and wear a tiara, hat, and/or a t-shirt to really stand out. 

Wearing a themed birthday outfit not only makes the guest feel celebrated, but it also makes it easy for fellow passengers to wish them a happy birthday. I love seeing guests dressed up and try to say, "Happy Birthday" to everyone I see celebrating on the ship or ashore!

Here are a few birthday sashes available from Amazon for inspiration: 

• CAVETEE Birthday Crown and Sash for Women
• 2 Pack "It's my Birthday Sash"
• "It's My Birthday" Glitter Sash
• King Crown and Birthday Sash

Book a special dinner

Royal Caribbean ships offer several complimentary dining options, so you can enjoy the included food without spending extra. However, if you’re looking to make your birthday a little more special, treating yourself to a specialty restaurant is a great way to splurge. 

From the classic Chops Grille steakhouse to the lively Izumi Hibachi experience and whimsical Wonderland restaurant, there's a range of specialty venues to suit every taste. Each venue is more intimate than the dining room and promises an elevated dining experience with premium menu options and ingredients. 

Make sure you book in advance, though. This will ensure that you secure the best rate through the Cruise Planner and get your desired dining time. 

Read more: I'm a travel writer who cruises on Royal Caribbean every month. These 6 extra cost restaurants are worth booking and the 2 you can skip

Reserve a spa treatment

Another way to make your otherwise normal cruise feel more special is by booking a spa treatment.

Normally, I’m against cruise ship spas since they can be more expensive than similar treatments at home, but splurging on a massage, facial, or other pampering service for your birthday is worth it.

Like specialty restaurants, though, consider booking in advance. Another way you can save money on the cruise spa is by looking for port day specials. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean Spa Package Prices

Stay in a suite

Finally, for the ultimate birthday experience at sea, consider booking a suite instead of a standard cruise cabin. While more expensive, suites come with extra perks and upgraded amenities — like access to a private restaurant and sun deck — that can further differentiate your birthday cruise from the average vacation.

On older Royal Caribbean ships (i.e., Vision, Radiance, Voyager, and Freedom Class vessels), the suite program is more straightforward, while on Quantum, Oasis, and Icon Class ships, the top-tier Royal Suite Class rooms include perks like a Deluxe Beverage Package, Royal Genie service, and much more.

Even if you don't have thousands of dollars to blow on accommodations, consider an entry-level suite for added space. The larger balcony is perfect for enjoying breakfast at sea, while the tub-shower combo is ideal for taking a relaxing soak after a long day ashore.

Royal Caribbean has quietly updated its prohibited items list to tighten onboard safety and cybersecurity. 

Previously, "Cybersecurity and deliberate electronic crime equipment" was listed under "Prohibited Items: What can’t you bring onboard?" 

However, the verbiage was recently updated to read: "Cybersecurity and deliberate electronic crime equipment (included satellite dishes, routers, and other networking equipment, any other deliberate electronic interference which would constitute criminal activity)." The change was made sometime after December 10, 2025. 

Ships rely on digital systems for navigation, communication, and entertainment. As such, the clarification helps protect the critical systems from interference. 

Additionally, the new wording is much more precise and explicitly targets devices intended to hack, disrupt, or manipulate the onboard systems, including signal jammers, hacking toolkits, and unauthorized travel Wi-Fi routers. 

This means that ordinary electronics — think laptops, tablets, smartphones, and smartwatches — are still allowed on Royal Caribbean ships. 

Satellite dishes, routers, and other networking equipment were previously listed on the prohibited items list. However, the recent addition hones in on the purpose of the device.

While many passengers used travel routers to save money by extending one internet package's connectivity to multiple devices, they can also be used to create rogue networks that interfere with the ship’s Wi‑Fi system or even bypass security controls.

Royal Caribbean wasn't the first cruise line to ban travel routers, either. For example, Carnival's prohibited items list clearly states that "satellite dish[es], routers and other internet related equipment" are not allowed onboard.

Read more: What can you not bring on a cruise

Cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses

A new survey released by the consulting firm Protiviti found that cybersecurity is a top concern across organizations of all sizes, as reported by Cybersecurity Drive. 

According to the report, corporate leaders, including board members, chief financial officers, and chief operating officers, are "increasingly aware that cyber resilience must be embedded into enterprise strategy."

"This widespread prioritization underscores the almost universal recognition that cybersecurity is no longer a siloed IT issue but rather a strategic enterprise risk with implications for brand reputation, operational continuity, and regulatory compliance," Protiviti said. 

Following cybersecurity, third-party risks, or threats from outside vendors or partners that an organization works with, ranked second on the executives’ list of concerns. 

Royal Caribbean’s updated policy reflects a recognition that cybersecurity at sea is equally important as on land. 

By banning devices that could cause "deliberate electronic interference which would constitute criminal activity," the cruise line is ensuring that its digital infrastructure, along with the safety of guests and crew, remains secure. 

A Long Island travel agent has been charged with multiple counts of grand larceny and schemes to defraud after stealing over $50,000 from clients, police confirm. 

Tavia Thomas, 47, of Hempstead, New York, was the CEO and Destination Travel Specialist of her company, Destiny Travel. 

Authorities allege that she defrauded families by taking payments for vacations and failing to actually book them, PIX 11 reported. 

Some of the victims were hoping to sail on Royal Caribbean cruises. In July 2024, for example, she supposedly received $35,753.98 from nine people to book a Royal Caribbean cruise out of Bayonne, New Jersey. 

(Credit: LongIsland.com)

Unfortunately, when the victims arrived at the terminal to board their cruise, they were informed that their booking confirmations were fake, officials said. As such, they were denied boarding. 

Just one week later, Thomas was hired to arrange a resort reservation for a destination wedding through ALG Vacations. However, the reservation was never made, and the clients did not receive a refund for the $5,000 they had paid. 

LongIsland.com shared that several members of the wedding party also made payments to Thomas, totaling over $2,600, which were never refunded. 

A reporter from The Shade Room spoke with Denise Perez-Horton to learn more about the impact of Thomas' alleged actions. 

"Final payment comes, and I’m like, 'Okay, where’s the reservation number?'" she told Justin Carter. "…She’s like, 'Well, the resort had a child that was electrocuted in the pool…and they have mold...' downplaying the resort, and I’m like, 'What? What is going on?'"

Perez-Horton was then informed that the reservation was moved to another resort, though they still did not receive flight or hotel confirmations. When she called the resort, she learned that the business "never" got the booking from Thomas. 

In another case, a family of 50 paid Thomas over $10,000 for a celebratory birthday trip to the Dominican Republic. According to Nassau County police, she never booked the accommodations and failed to return the family’s money.

Thomas faces three counts of third-degree grand larceny, three counts of first-degree scheme to defraud, and two counts of fourth-degree grand larceny.

Her arraignment was held on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, at the First District Court in Hempstead. 

It's important to do your research before trusting a travel agent

A travel agent's job is to make your life easier by handling all the meticulous details of planning a trip, from confirming your stateroom to helping book specialty restaurants and arranging transportation. If they do it right, all you have to do is focus on enjoying your well-earned vacation.  

Unfortunately, as Thomas proved, not all travel agents operate with the same level of professionalism or client care as others.

That's why it is important to check reviews, verify credentials, and even ask for references before giving a stranger any payment information. 

If you aren't sure where to start, ask friends and family members for recommendations. You can also look for agents affiliated with reputable organizations, like the American Society of Travel Advisors (the world's leading association of travel professionals). 

At Royal Caribbean Blog, we love working with MEI-Travel. Having now booked over one dozen cruises with MEI, I can attest that their employees are professional, timely, and dedicated to ensuring you have the best experience possible from start to finish. 

Read more: I always ask my travel agent for 4 things on every cruise I book to make my cruise easier

Crew members typically don't have large cruise ship cabins. Oftentimes, they have to share a tiny stateroom with another coworker, with the cabins barely large enough to fit bunk beds, a small desk, and a closet. Cruise ship captains, however, live very differently. 

Captains oversee all onboard operations to ensure that the ship is safely operating during each and every voyage. As such, their living quarters reflect the level of responsibility they carry. 

Their luxurious staterooms often feature a spacious bedroom and living area, easy access to the Bridge, panoramic views, and more. 

TikTok user Allie Rae shared a rare look at a captain’s cabin, posting a 30-second clip of her father's living quarters aboard the Independence of the Seas. 

The video, which was shared on Wednesday, January 5, has already received over 190,000 views and 18,400 likes. 

Thoughtfully designed to balance comfort with functionality

Rae opens up the door to reveal an expansive entryway before heading into the main living area. The elegant columns have been wrapped with tinsel for the holidays. 

The living room is anything but cramped, with a large entertainment center, flat-screen television, a couch, loveseat, recliner, and dining table. 

Tucked into the corner is a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, while the bar has been fully stocked with wine and glassware. 

Finally, the living room is bathed in natural light from three portholes. This differs from most crew staterooms, as the majority of the cabins are windowless. 

The stateroom also has a large office with two massive portholes. As such, the captain has a quiet, functional space to review CCTV footage, plan routes, and handle other important administrative duties. 

Rae pans over to her father, who is hard at work in his office. "My name is Tor, and I work here," he jokingly says. 

(Credit: Tor I. Olsen/LinkedIn)

According to his LinkedIn page, Tor I. Olsen has been in the maritime industry since 1978. 

He began his career with Royal Caribbean in January 1987 aboard the Song of America and has since worked on several of the line’s most notable ships, including Empress of the Seas, Splendour of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas.

Rae's TikTok account also features videos highlighting the behind-the-scenes life of cruise ship crew members

For example, Rae posted a day-in-the-life video, showing her enjoying lunch in the Main Dining Room with her family before accompanying her father to help judge the crew's various holiday competitions, including the Christmas door, tree-making, and office decorating contests.

"After lunch, I got to go with my dad and the Executive Team here on board to judge some of the Christmas trees that were put in for a Christmas decorating contest," she says. 

"On top of that, I also got to go around with them and see the different doors that had entered in the door decorating contest. There were so many cute ones, [and] it was very hard to choose a winner," she adds.