Cruise ships

Cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises all offer up some very cool activities and attractions onboard their cruise ships

Long gone are the days when entertainment on cruise ships consisted of lounging around by the pool all day before heading over to the buffet.

Yes, those experiences are still absolutely available for those who want them, but nowadays cruises have seriously upped the ante when it comes to their onboard entertainment. Cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises and Celebrity Cruises have pulled out all of the stops with onboard rollercoasters, go-kart tracks and thrill attractions for guests who are after an adrenaline rush during their holidays.

That’s not even including the epic water parks that often boast high speed slides and fun for the whole family (although make sure you’re aware of a little-known pool rule before getting in, or you could face having to leave the pool area!).

We take a look at some of the ridiculously cool attractions you can find on cruises – check out our top picks below!

1. Crown’s Edge, Royal Caribbean

Usually a stroll around a cruise ship involves a dedicated track, or just wandering through the decks; but Royal Caribbean has added a major thrill factor for those who dare to brave Crown’s Edge. Described as a “part skywalk, part ropes course, part thrill ride”, it’s definitely not one for the faint-hearted as you step onto the walkway that takes you right above the water below! The attraction is available on the cruise line’s newest ships, Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, which also happen to be sharing the title of world’s biggest cruise ship!

Find out more on royalcaribbean.com.

2. Robotron, MSC Cruises

If you love a fairground ride, then you’re going to want to check out Robotron onboard MSC Seascape. This terrifying ride involves a giant robotic arm that’s attached with a gondola to seat three guests, and sends them soaring 53 metres above the sea, with 360 degree views of the horizon (just be prepared to be flipped upside down and in all sorts of directions!).

Find out more on msccruises.com.

3. Go-karting, Norwegian Cruise Line

Get ready to show off your competitive side on board Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Bliss, where you can find some of the world’s longest race tracks at sea. Passengers can race their electric karts at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, with highlights including a pit lane, viewing spaces for spectators, and engine sounds through the headrest so you feel like you could be joining the F1 line-up.

Find out more on ncl.com.

4. BOLT, Carnival Cruise Lines

Riders who brave the world’s first rollercoaster at sea will not only be treated to epic sea views, but they’ll get to control the speed at which they ride on the motorcycle-style car, with the ability to reach up to 40 miles per hour. The ride is available on ships including Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.

Find out more on carnival.com.

5. AquaDuck, Disney Cruise Line

Thrill attractions don’t always have to be for adults and big kids; on Disney’s Cruise Line, the Aquaduck water ride can be ideal for smaller adrenaline-seekers. Families can get propelled along the water tunnels in a dinghy around the ship, across a four-deck drop.

The cruise line’s newest ships including the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny will feature a similar water ride, although this one is the AquaMouse and features cool features including screens as you join Mickey and Minnie Mouse on their adventures.

Find out more on disneycruise.disney.go.com.

6. Magic Carpet, Celebrity Cruises

Before you get visions of joining Aladdin for a quick-stop flight around the world, this one’s actually a bar! Celebrity’s cantilevered platform is a firm favourite with holidaymakers as you can enjoy a tipple or two while moving up and down the ship. Plus, as it’s on the edge of the ship, you can get unrivalled views of the ocean! You’ll find this very cool feature on Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Ascent.

Find out more on celebritycruises.com/gb.

7. Zip line, Royal Caribbean

If you’re not afraid of heights, then this suspended zip line that zooms over the Boardwalk, offering you brilliant views of the ship (if you dare keep your eyes open that is). You’ll typically find this attraction on the cruise line’s Oasis Class ships, including Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, and Utopia of the Seas.

Find out more on royalcaribbean.com.

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Cruise passengers have been warned to check certain items in their cabins before they start settling into their holiday – and it will only take a few minutes

When you board a cruise, it’s natural to want to ditch your bags and head straight to the pool or buffet, and get the holiday started as soon as possible.

However, insiders have suggested that before you head out, you should get settled in your cabin properly. That includes doing a quick sweep of the “high traffic areas” which previous passengers may have been touching, which may not fall into the crew’s list of deep cleaning priorities.

Unpacking your bags, getting your bearings and joining the safety drills before the ship sails are all on most people’s radars already, but according to industry experts, there are approximately seven items that you may want to sanitise before you can truly settle in.

When sharing their advice on the first things to do when you board a cruise, the team at Cruise Critic explained: “We’re not suggesting that your cabin steward isn’t doing a proper job at cleaning your room. But a little extra precaution never hurt anyone, and it will just take a few minutes to sanitise (or re-sanitise) certain areas of your cabin.”

READ MORE: World’s first cruise ship exclusively for solo travellers set to sail in 2027

The seven “high-traffic areas” in your cabin which you may want to check are the “doorknob, deadbolt, TV remote, light switches, bathroom faucets, thermostat, safe keypad”, as well as other items you think might have been picked up a lot by previous passengers. (We know, it’s not nice to think someone else has been in the room before you but of course that’s the reality!). The experts added: “If you want to go the extra mile, rewash the bar glasses if your cabin has them.”

Before the ship sails off, you may also want to check your phone, or you may end up facing some hefty bills when you get home. In fact, there’s a costly mistake which quite a lot of passengers make with their phones onboard the ship.

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You may not be getting any signal at sea, but that doesn’t mean that data roaming charges won’t apply. Most people assume that because they are unable to connect to the internet unless they opt for a cruise line’s Wi-Fi package, then their phone won’t be incurring data charges. However, even at sea your phone may intermittently connect to maritime networks and satellites – and you’ll be hit with the fees that come alongside this.

Opting for a Wi-Fi package can be an easy way to avoid these types of costs, but of course these can be quite expensive. If you’re sticking to a budget or you’re quite happy to ditch your social media feeds and emails for a few days, then one of the easiest ways to avoid the potentially high costs is to switch off data roaming, or at least put your phone on airplane mode.

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The world’s first cruise ship for solo travellers is set to sail in 2027 with a series of glamorous European sailings – and bookings have already opened

Solo travellers who want to book cruise holidays often have to face the likes of single supplements as cruise ships often have cabins that are designed for at least two people.

However, a new offering from Riviera Travel could be the answer to their problem, as the brand is launching the world’s first river cruise ship aimed exclusively at solo travellers.

MS George Eliot will set sail in 2027 on a series of European itineraries along the likes of the Rhine and Danube, with eight-day itineraries from £2,449pp, as well as two brand new 15-day itineraries.

The move comes after Riviera Travel saw a 66% year-on-year increase in solo river cruise bookings. In fact, solo travellers now make up nearly 13% of all bookings, with half of guests being repeat travellers.

Research from the travel firm also found that 64% of solo travellers preferring a solo-exclusive trip, as they embrace the freedom of exploring alone while also having the option to travel with like-minded adventurers.

To celebrate the new launch, the company is offering holidaymakers a free upgrade from middle to upper deck on European river cruises departing in 2027 (excluding long-haul). You’ll need to book by the 31st October 2025, and travellers will need to use the code ‘Upgrade 27’. You can find out more on rivieratravel.co.uk.

It’s not the only new launch for the brand. Riviera Alba will also sail in 2027, and will be the first-ever ship outside Europe for the cruise brand, with itineraries along the Mekong River in Southeast Asia.

In the meantime, there are plenty more cruise ships to get excited about. Disney Cruise Line, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises have all revealed plans for new ships in 2027, although you’ll need to watch this space for updates on the names and exactly what passengers will get to enjoy onboard.

For those who can’t wait to sail, there’s more good news as Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises and TUI Cruises are all set to welcome new ships in 2026. In fact, Royal Caribbean celebrated a milestone for its upcoming mega ship Legend of the Seas, as the vessel was floated out earlier this month ahead of its summer 2026 maiden season.

Legend of the Seas will be the third of the cruise line’s Icon Class ships, with the world’s biggest cruise ships Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas being the other two. It will be the first of this ship class to offer sailings around Europe on itineraries from the likes of Barcelona and Rome. Meanwhile with a passenger capacity of up to 5,628, this huge ship will boast the largest waterpark at sea, a 40ft-long FlowRider surf simulator, dazzling theatre shows, epic dining venues and plenty more for passengers to enjoy.

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Patricia Wooding gets lost roaming the world’s biggest cruise ship, the Star of the Seas, on the first passenger voyage of a vast ship with a 250,000 gross tonnage

The world’s biggest and newest cruise ship has set sail on her debut passenger voyage – and already she’s a legend in her own launch-time.

Star of the Seas, a 250,000 gross tonnage floating metropolis built at a cost of £1.6billion, has all you need for the ultimate family holiday crammed on 20 fun-filled decks.

This giant, ocean-going resort simply blows all rival cruise ships out of the water. The Royal Caribbean ship is so huge and packed with so many attractions that at one stage I actually forgot that I was at sea.

In fact, after four days on board I had hardly begun to experience all this supership has to offer.

There are 40 restaurants and bars to suit all tastes, seven swimming pools, shops, theatres, a casino, ice rink, live bands and nightclubs. There’s even a ship’s dog – Sailor – to comfort any of the 5,600 passengers who are missing their own pets while at sea.

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Jewel in the crown is Thrill Island, a theme park on the top deck which boasts six record-breaking waterslides.

The biggest is not for the faint-hearted but a must for the adventurous.

It’s part skywalk and part ride 154ft above the ocean.

Adrenaline-seekers have to navigate a suspended walkway and experience a controlled freefall before gliding down a zipline to the deck below. It is meant to test the bravery of the thrill-seeker – and it certainly does that. There’s no need to leave the ship if you fancy a bit of surfing, either. Flow-rider is a wave machine which allows you to go “boogie boarding” and simulate real Surfing USA. Incredibly, 30,000 gallons of water a minute rush under the rider at 30mph creating a 5ft foot wave. Watch out for the height restrictions of 4ft 10in for stand-up surfing or 4ft 4in for boogie boarding.

If you’d rather chill than thrill, head to the adults-only area at the rear of the ship – or the aft as we rookie seafarers call it. There you can relax in the suspended infinity pool and enjoy vast ocean views with a cocktail in hand while grooving to the beat of an Ibiza-style DJ. There’s also a shady bar nearby and a terrace with whirlpools.

Don’t worry about dashing to the bar for a refill. The efficient waiters attend to your needs and keep glasses well topped up.

There’s also a three-deck area for holidaymakers to kick back at four pools, including the Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea.

Guests can enjoy live bands while they sip tropical cocktails from the swim-up bar called The Swim and Tonic. If you’re travelling with a young family, head for Surfside. It’s THE place to stay and play all day, however old the children are.

Younger kids and toddlers will have great fun at Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay. There are plenty of lifeguards, constantly on full alert, so no reason to worry about their safety.

There’s a multi-level playground called Playscape, which includes a rock climbing wall, with safety harnesses provided. Just like Star of the Seas they can take cruising to another level.

There’s bags of entertainment for the kids and sporty types, including a spectacular mini golf course and a sports court offering five-a-side football and basketball on the top deck.

You don’t need to worry about the ball going overboard, either, as it’s entirely covered by netting.

There’s so much to do on board that you will forget you’re at sea. This was a surprise to me, as someone who suffers travel sickness on a park boating lake.

After one day at sea, I actually had to pinch myself to remember I was not on land. There wasn’t even a gentle movement. I sat through a performance of Back to the Future, the Musical, performed with a full cast and 16-piece band in a 1,400-seat theatre and left thinking I was actually in the West End. But it’s not the only show in this ocean-going town. Torque, a spectacular featuring champion swimmers and divers packed them in at the AquaTheater to see the aquabatics involving a 55ft waterfall and two 60ft diving platforms.

There are thrills and spills on ice with a huge skating cast, including Olympians, in the show Sol. Stars of this show were extreme skaters, former roller skaters who switched to the ice. There’s even a version of the TV Show The Price is Right where you can win a car.

The ultimate family room was an incredible sight with a kiddie slide, video games, personal access to decks and Jacuzzi and stairs which look like and play like piano keys!

Fitness, yoga, sunrise moments, balloon rides and pickleball – you name it – are part of the entertainment. There’s music for almost every taste, including a resident DJ, karaoke, jazz club, duelling pianos, and a harpist, plus a stand-up comedy theatre. You can shop till you drop with lots of high end boutiques – but don’t go overboard.

Even arriving for breakfast is fun as a pair of dancers greet you, reminding you in song to wash your hands at the row of basins at the restaurant entrance.

Star, sister ship to Icon of the Seas, hit the ocean waves this month to deliver seven-night Caribbean adventures with stops at its top-rated private island in the Bahamas.

Sailing from Port Canaveral in Florida, we stopped at Perfect Day at CocoCay, bought by Royal Caribbean in 1988 and turned into a dream resort. My first glimpse of the tropical paradise was when I drew back the cabin curtains at 7am to see the island glistening like a jewel in the ocean. It contains miles of white, sandy beaches and attractions you’ll find in the world’s top resorts. After breakfast on board, we headed down the gangway and were greeted by staff ready to whisk us about by mini electric train.

Most of it is free – including food, drink and sun loungers – for passengers who pull up for the day. There’s water slides, balloon rides and lots of nature to discover.

But it was pure magic simply to relax on the silver sands of Hideaway Bay, sip a complimentary cocktail and take in the view. We visited Coco Beach Club which boasts a magnificent swimming pool, bars and wooden cabanas which were available for private hire. While bathing in clear, shallow water we came across a 4ft lemon shark. No need to panic, as the lifeguard assured us, as they are not considered dangerous to humans.

Still, it set the heart pounding to see such a magnificent creature swimming so close in barely three feet of water. The great thing about visiting this island is that it’s a home from home for cruisers.

Just flash your passenger identity card and you get complimentary food, drinks, towels and sunbeds, so you can leave your cash and credit cards in the safe in the cabin. Even the free wi-fi you get on board works on the island and is part of your package.

I sampled a Bahama Mama cocktail, enjoyed a refreshing dip in the sparking, turquoise water and felt relaxed with a capital R.

At 4.30, we made our way back aboard the ship to take a shower and freshen up for dinner and the evening of lavish entertainment.

As I finished getting ready, I glanced out of the cabin window to see we were setting sail again and waved goodbye to the magic island.

It truly had been a Perfect Day. But with so much still to see and do on board Star, the adventure was only just beginning…

GET ON BOARD

Royal Caribbean offers a seven-night round trip on Star of the Seas, sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, on November 2 and calling at Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas; Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Philipsburg, St Maarten. From £1,321pp, flights extra. royalcaribbean.com/gbr

MORE INFO

bahamas.com visitusvi.com vacationstmaarten.com

Cruise ships have plenty of entertainment for passengers but there’s one clever ‘blue mind effect’ that can be key to whether they feel calm while they’re on the ship

Cruise holidays offer up plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation whether that’s sitting poolside on the top deck, unwinding in the spa or tucking into some delicious food. Then of course there are all of the thrilling destinations to be explored whether you’re sailing along the Mediterranean coast or going in search of winter sun in the Caribbean.

Most people tend to feel happier or more relaxed on a holiday, but according to industry insiders, cruise ships use a clever tactic to try and maximise that feeling of joy for passengers.

It all comes down to the ‘blue mind effect’. This theory suggests that if you’re close to water or immersed in water, it can encourage a meditative and relaxed state of mind, and therefore play a key role in your wellbeing. Of course cruise ships are surrounded by water, and according to experts, cruise lines use this to their advantage.

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The insiders at Iglu Cruise explained: “Taking this into consideration, cruise ships are designed with as many positions to view the sea as possible. There are floor-to-ceiling windows in public areas offering uninterrupted views of the ocean, open decks to view the horizon and private balconies allowing passengers to have their own private “blue mind” sanctuary, and there’s nothing quite like falling asleep to the sound of the sea.”

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The ‘blue mind effect’ isn’t the only way a cruise can offer up useful ways to boost your mental wellbeing. Another perk of being at sea is that in the middle of the ocean, you’re unlikely to get good signal. While most lines do offer up Wi-Fi packages for those who want to stay connected, if you’re after a digital detox then a cruise can be the ideal opportunity to take one.

READ MORE: ‘I watched Disney’s new ship float out and it was more nail-biting than expected’

In fact, according to Iglu Cruise, “it’s been found that a “digital detox” can reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus, improve sleep, decrease FOMO (fear of missing out) and deepen relationship”. Their experts added: “This newfound freedom whilst onboard, encourages disconnection from devices and instead, engaging with the surroundings, embracing the present moment and enjoying precious time with loved ones. It’s also the perfect justification for not feeling obliged to respond to people right away.”

Of course while it’s lovely to have some R&R, some holidaymakers also like a bit of adventure on their holidays, so the fact that you can visit multiple destinations on one holiday can appeal. Then there’s the upping of the ante when it comes to onboard entertainment from rollercoasters at sea to West End-worthy shows, and epic waterparks. With an increasing demand for entertainment at sea, new ships are bigger than ever before – and experts predict that they could soon be the size of small cities.

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Luxury cruising has become synonymous with opulence and service, and these ships are some of the most expensive in the world – but they offer something a little bit special

Luxury cruising has evolved beyond simply travelling from port to port – it’s now about embracing a way of life filled with sophistication, comfort and carefully crafted experiences on the open seas.

Throughout the last ten years, cruise operators have revolutionised their fleets into floating masterpieces, combining the personal touch of boutique accommodation with the magnificence of top-tier resorts.

These ships are crafted not merely to ferry passengers to stunning locations but also to envelop them in the most exquisite facilities conceivable, reports theluxurytravelexpert just days after a new 129-day cruise was launched from Sydney to London with unlimited food and drink.

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1. CRYSTAL SERENITY – CRYSTAL CRUISES.

Freshly rejuvenated, the Crystal Serenity merges traditional elegance with modern luxury. Cabins and suites boast generous proportions, showcasing premium furnishings, private balconies and considerate details including pillow menus and bespoke evening service, reports the Express.

Restaurant options include the Waterside main dining room serving internationally influenced dishes, an elegant Marketplace buffet and the exclusive Vintage Room offering wine-pairing experiences.

6. SCENIC ECLIPSE – SCENIC LUXURY CRUISES & TOURS.

Frequently dubbed the globe’s inaugural “discovery yacht,” Scenic Eclipse provides ultra-premium expedition adventures that merge luxury with exploration. Equipped with twin helicopters, a submersible and numerous Zodiacs, it provides access to isolated locations such as the Arctic, Antarctica and the Mediterranean.

Passengers can enjoy helicopter excursions for panoramic viewing, explore underwater in the submarine, or paddle alongside marine life in pristine waters. 5.

EVRIMA – THE RITZCARLTON YACHT COLLECTION.

Evrima, the inaugural yacht of The RitzCarlton Yacht Collection, sets a new standard by combining the intimate feel of a private yacht with the brand’s signature service and sophistication. Suites are designed with warm natural materials, plush furnishings and luxurious amenities to create serene retreats.

Its intimate size allows access to exclusive, lesser-travelled ports and hidden coves that larger ships cannot reach, delivering unique, immersive destination experiences.

4. EXPLORA 1 – EXPLORA JOURNEYS.

Explora 1, the flagship of Explora Journeys from MSC Group, aims to redefine elegant ocean travel with sustainability and personalisation at its core. Hosting around 918 guests, it offers an intimate atmosphere with spacious, contemporary suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces and a minimalist aesthetic inspired by the Mediterranean.

State-of-the-art technology reduces its environmental footprint, including advanced wastewater treatment and energy-efficient systems.

3. SILVER ENDEAVOUR – SILVERSEA CRUISES.

Purpose-built for polar exploration, Silver Endeavour brings ultra-luxury to the world’s most remote regions without compromising comfort. With an ice-class 6 rating, it navigates Arctic and Antarctic waters to reach pristine destinations such as the Ross Sea and the Northwest Passage.

Onboard, spacious suites offer floor-to-ceiling windows or private verandas, plush bedding and personalised butler service to ensure every detail is attended to.

2. SEABOURN VENTURE – SEABOURN CRUISE LINE.

Seabourn Venture represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury expedition cruising, combining extraordinary adventures with the brand’s lavish comforts. Carrying just 264 guests and built to a robust Polar Class 6 standard, it explores remote polar regions and hidden tropical paradises with confidence.

All-suite accommodations feature elegant furnishings, private verandas and modern amenities including custom-designed beds and deep soaking tubs.

1. SEVEN SEAS SPLENDOR – REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES.

Seven Seas Splendor is widely described as the most refined ship ever built, with a construction cost exceeding $600 million – the most expensive cruise ship on a per-passenger basis. Designed for just 750 guests, it delivers exclusivity and sophistication, from custom-crafted furnishings to fine Italian marble.

Suites rank among the most spacious at sea, complete with private balconies, expansive living areas and indulgent marble bathrooms.

Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is the world’s biggest cruise ship alongside sister ship Icon of the Seas and we got a first look onboard

The world’s biggest and newest cruise ship set sail on her maiden passenger voyage – and I was lucky enough to be on board. Star of the Seas is a giant floating city with 20 decks crammed with top-notch attractions for the whole family, including a water park, swimming pools, crazy golf, theatres, an ice skating rink, 14 shops and 40 bars and restaurants.

It is so big, it feels quite odd as it will take you a few days to find your way around this monster which set sail from Port Canaveral, Florida, on Wednesday night. But after dashing around the decks, here’s a few highlights of the Royal Caribbean ship that you won’t want to miss. Thrill Island is the largest waterpark at sea with SIX record-breaking water slides.

The biggest is not for the faint-hearted but a must for the adventurous. One of its most daring features is Crown’s Edge, part skywalk and part ride 154ft above the ocean. Adrenaline-seekers navigate a suspended walkway and experience a controlled freefall before gliding down a zipline to the deck below. It is meant to test the bravery of the thrill-seeker – and it certainly does that. After all, it’s the sister ship to Icon of the Seas which is also a hit with adventurous holidaymakers.

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There’s no need to leave the ship if you fancy a bit of surfing, either. The Flow-rider is a wave machine which allows you to go “boogie boarding” and simulate real Surfing USA. Incredibly, 30,000 gallons of water a minute rush under the rider at 30mph creating a five-foot wave. Watch out for the height restrictions of 4ft 10in for stand-up surfing or 4ft 4in for boogie boarding.

If you’d rather chill than thrill head to the adults-only area at the rear of the ship – or the aft as we rookie seafarers call it. There you can relax in the suspended infinity pool and enjoy vast ocean views with a cocktail in hand while grooving to the beat of an Ibiza-style DJ. There’s also a shady bar nearby and a terrace with whirlpools.

Don’t worry about dashing to the bar for a refill. The efficient waiters will attend to your needs and keep your glasses well topped up. Chill Island is a three-deck area for holidaymakers to kick back at four pools, including the Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea. Guests can enjoy live bands while they sip on tropical cocktails from the swim-up bar called The Swim and Tonic.

The bags of entertainment for the kids and sporty types, including a spectacular mini golf course and a sports court offering five-a-side football and basketball on the top deck. Don’t worry about the ball going overboard, either, as it’s entirely covered by netting.

If you’re travelling with a young family, head for Surfside. It’s THE place to stay and play all day, however old the children are. Younger kids and toddlers will have great fun at Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay, while parents can relax nearby. There are plenty of lifeguards, constantly on full alert, so no reason to worry about their safety.

There’s a multi-level playground called Playscape, which includes a rock climbing wall, with safety harnesses provided. Just like Star of the Seas they can take cruising to another level.

You can find out more about Star on the Seas including rates and itineraries on royalcaribbean.com.

Disney Cruise Line marked another milestone for their new cruise ship Disney Destiny set to sail in November with tributes to Hercules, the Lion King and Marvel

Disney Cruise Line marked another milestone its the expansion of its fleet as the latest of its cruise ships, Disney Destiny, was floated out earlier this week.

I was lucky enough to be invited to the Meyer Weft shipyard in Germany for the highly-anticipated event, which gave fans a first look at the 1,122ft-long ship, which is estimated to have cost up to $1.1billion (approx £743million) to build.

While a float out is a big deal for cruise lines, I wasn’t prepared for how much of an event it would turn out to be. My first clue was when we turned up to find that hundreds of locals had already been camping in the parking lot for days beforehand, and were already lining up near the shipyard’s riverbanks to get some of the best views of the ship.

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Meyer Weft and Disney Cruise Line pulled out all the stops too; there were food and drink stalls, iconic Disney songs playing in the background, and of course those all-important fireworks when the ship made its grand appearance. Minnie Mouse herself made an appearance, dressed in a new superhero outfit in a nod to the artwork that features on the bow of the Destiny.

There was a general buzz of anticipation, and considering a float out takes a couple of hours, the atmosphere was impressive.

Although it was all a very smooth process, it was nail-biting to watch all the same. For a start, although the ship’s engines have been built and are powerful enough for the ship to move forward, these don’t actually get used because there’s such a small margin of error in terms of navigating the riverbank and space.

Instead, a tiny (well, tiny compared to the cruise ship) tug boat sailed out and was hooked up to the ship with ropes; and that turned out to be the way they would be dragging out the huge ship which boasts a 144,000 gross tonnage. The smaller boat slowly zig zagged as it pulled the Disney Destiny out of the construction hall. There were only a few metres either side with room for error, so precision was key, and I felt nervous for the captain whose responsibility it was to ensure that the ship stayed well away from the sides!

There were around four or five shipyard workers who also walked along the edge of the riverbank, reportedly to keep an eye out in case the ship got too close, and to help assist the smaller boat with ropes.

Luckily, they knew what they were doing and the ship was floated out seamlessly, with fireworks and pyrotechnics going off once it had officially left the hall, as well as a new upbeat song being unveiled that will be the ship’s anthem.

As for the Disney Destiny itself, there’s going to be plenty for Mickey Mouse fans to get excited about. A sister ship to the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, this new addition to the fleet boasts a ‘heroes and villains’ them complete with a Cruella De Vil themed bar, a Marvel lounge inspired by the Sanctum from Doctor Strange, and a Pirates of the Caribbean themed pub.

Disney Destiny will sail on her maiden voyage on November 20, 2025 from Fort Lauderdale, with itineraries to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean. You can get more details about the ship and book sailings at disneycruise.disney.go.com. You can also find out more about the shipyard at meyerwerft.de.

A travel expert has shed fresh light on what goes on below deck of commercial cruise ships – including what happens when passengers die onboard and the cryptic codes shared on the PA system

Netflix’s new documentary Trainwreck: The Poop Cruise has caused quite the commotion, leaving many curious about the inner workings of mega cruises. One travel expert has the answers, sharing insider secrets of life below deck. Global Work & Travel ’s Jessie Chambers shares five of the most surprising secrets from the cruise world, including onboard jails and morgues.

She also unpacks common codes blasted over the PA system. According to Chambers, most cruise ships have a brig which is essentially a “secure jail-like room” to detain unruly or dangerous passengers. The brig houses these passengers until they can be removed at the next port.

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Cruise ships also have a place to house deceased passengers. Given that some cruises have an older average passenger age, it isn’t altogether uncommon for deaths to occur onboard. For this reason, most cruise liners are equipped with morgues that can hold multiple bodies until the ship reaches land.

In rare cases, families can potentially request burials at sea – a practice that still exists under strict regulation. According to Chambers, some passengers even pre-plan their final voyage, ashes included.

When it comes to the code system used by staff, Chambers explains that these are used to signal emergencies. Cruise staff are trained to use discreet codes (i.e. “Code Oscar” or “Code Alpha”) to flag medical incidents, man overboard alerts, or even biohazard events like mass vomiting.

Chambers’ last insider secret is that not all ports will welcome all passengers, even if they have paid already. She says that if your cruise ship has a health issue onboard or if weather turns, your port stop can be cancelled.

If this happens, passengers can be left with no recourse or compensation. She says this has happened frequently in the post-COVID era.

Despite some of the less glamorous aspects and potential dangers, Chambers says cruises are still a great way to travel. “Cruises are brilliant fun – but they’re also floating cities, and that means everything from crime to chaos has to be accounted for.

“The Trainwreck: Poop Cruise documentary might seem extreme, but outbreaks, delays, even onboard arrests are all part of the behind-the-scenes reality. It’s important travellers know what they’re signing up for – not to scare them, but to empower them,” she concludes.

That said, there are some passengers of the infamous cruise that argue that the documentary “doesn’t even scratch the surface” of how horrific the experience was.

The cruise voyage from Texas to Mexico descended into chaos after an engine room fire caused a massive electrical failure, leaving over 4,000 passengers and crew to wade through urine and feces and camp on deck.

Tay Redford, 24, a passenger who was only 12 at the time of the incident, says she felt “hurt” by the portrayal after watching the trailer. Tay vividly recalls the fear and chaos, arguing that Carnival failed to provide meaningful support after the ordeal.

“I’ve only seen the trailer, but from what I saw, it doesn’t even scratch the surface,” she said. “It’s just Carnival workers telling the story. It’s really hard watching the documentary come out and seeing all these people making money from it.

The infamous ‘Poop Cruise’ – where passengers were left stranded without any power and had to poo in bags – made global headlines back in 2013 as the chaos unfolded

Netflix documentary series Trainwreck explores some of the most bizarre, jaw-dropping, and at times downright revolting events in recent history. One particularly unforgettable episode focuses on a maritime disaster that made global headlines: the infamous “Poop Cruise”.

In February 2013, the Carnival Triumph cruise ship set sail from Galveston, Texas, with more than 4,000 passengers and crew onboard, bound for a leisurely four-day Caribbean getaway. But the holiday quickly unravelled into chaos.

On the third day, a fire erupted in the aft engine room. Though the blaze was quickly extinguished and no injuries were reported, it critically damaged the ship’s main power systems. The Triumph was left drifting in the Gulf of Mexico without propulsion, or basic functioning utilities.

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With the power out, vital systems failed, including air conditioning, refrigeration, and most importantly, the sewage and sanitation infrastructure. What followed was a nightmare.

Toilets stopped working. Raw sewage began leaking into hallways and cabins, filling the ship with a stench described by passengers as unbearable. Many were forced to relieve themselves in plastic bags and red biohazard bags, as bathrooms became unusable.

With the air conditioning offline, temperatures inside soared, making the interior suffocatingly hot and humid. Dozens of passengers chose to sleep on open decks just to escape the heat and foul odours.

Food quickly became scarce. Without refrigeration, the crew did what they could, serving cold sandwiches and sparse meals often consisting of little more than bread and vegetables. Water was rationed, and tensions steadily rose.

Although communication with the outside world was limited, word of the ship’s grim conditions quickly spread. Images of the stranded vessel and its desperate passengers went viral, drawing international media attention.

After five gruelling days, the Carnival Triumph was finally towed to port in Mobile, Alabama, bringing an end to the ordeal, but not to the controversy.

In the aftermath, investigations uncovered troubling details. CNN obtained documents showing only four of the ship’s six generators were functioning before departure, and that Carnival had prior knowledge of both fire hazards and fuel line issues. Records revealed nine separate fuel line incidents in just two years, raising serious questions about the company’s maintenance practices and safety protocols.

As lawsuits mounted and scrutiny of the cruise industry intensified, Carnival found itself in damage control.

Then-President and CEO Gerry Cahill issued a public apology, saying: “I want to again apologise to our guests and their friends and families. The situation on board was difficult and we are very sorry for what has happened. We pride ourselves on providing our guests with a great vacation experience and clearly we failed in this case.”

Kimberly Townsend, a 54-year-old mother of two and grandmother of three, was among 31 passengers who sued Carnival, holding the company accountable for what they describe as a disastrous voyage.

In her testimony, Townsend gave a vivid and emotional account of the harrowing days spent aboard the disabled ship stranded in the Gulf of Mexico. She described terrified passengers crowding the decks, worried for their safety, while foul-smelling toilets overflowed into hallways. There was no power, near-total darkness, long waits for limited water, and a severe lack of food.

Townsend recalled finally managing to reach her mother by phone once the crippled ship was towed into Mobile, Alabama – arriving days late from what was meant to be a dream vacation. She told the court she had begged her mother to come get her right away. As she recounted the moment, her voice faltered, she looked down, and began to sob in the witness chair.

She was one of several passengers from the Carnival Triumph who took the stand, some breaking down in tears, as they spoke about the ordeal and the emotional toll that still lingers a year later.

“I did not get physically injured. I got mentally injured,” testified Jean Cripps, a 74-year-old grandmother who suffers from Parkinson’s disease. She went on the cruise with her husband, Alton, who has diabetes and a hurt leg that forced him to retire disabled. The elderly couple was on the cruise as a present from their son, David, and grandson, Easton, who went with them.

“It never ends, the whole experience never ends,” testified Cripps. “It’s over and over again. We had two good days,” she said, referring to the first days of the cruise.

“But that’s not what I think about. I think about the smell, the stench and the bad things. All the memories come flooding back, and I can’t stop them.”

Among the worst memories, Cripps testified, was the fear that the ship, which listed severely after the fire, would actually turn over and sink.

“It was a horrible experience,” testified Michelle Key, 48, who went on the cruise with her mother, Fleda Key, 68. “I walked through water and faeces and urine, no telling what else,” she testified. “We would slip and slide through greasy, gross, slippery muck,” she said, adding “it was very difficult” for her mother.

Fleda Key described having terrible diarrhoea on numerous occasions and having difficulty finding any toilets that were not overflowing.

“There was lots of urine and faeces all the way up to the rim of every one,” she said, explaining she “choked away the smell”. Like many of the witnesses, she testified that she lived for days in total fear that they might not finish the voyage alive. “I was fearful, downright afraid and scared,” said Fleda.

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One simple trick can help you get plenty more cabin storage space on your cruise ship without having to upgrade to a suite or larger room on holiday

Brits heading on cruise holidays this summer won’t need to fork out for a cabin upgrade if they want extra storage, thanks to a simple but effective trick.

While cruise suites often come with perks like extra storage space, they’re not always within your budget; but opting for a cheaper cabin doesn’t mean you’ll need to pack a little more lightly. In fact, there’s one clever trick that cruise regulars swear by, and all you need to do is pack one extra item.

The insiders over at Cruise Critic revealed the trick, explaining: “In many onboard bathrooms, there’s just not enough space for all your toiletries, cosmetics, jewellery and other personal items you like to keep by the sink and shower. An old favourite trick of many cruisers is to hang up an over-the-door shoe organiser and fill the pockets not with footwear but with hairbrushes, detangling spray and other beauty needs. The cloth organisers are easily foldable to fit in your cruise luggage.”

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It wasn’t the only tip they had. If you’re packing lots of toiletries but think you won’t have enough space for things like your shampoo or razor, then the travel experts recommend also bringing a “magnetic or suction hooks to hang on doors and walls to hang toiletries from etc too”.

Of course one of the perks of cruises is that the ships don’t tend to have strict luggage limits, so you can often rock up with two large suitcases and a personal bag (although if you’ve booked a cruise that departs from abroad, check your airline’s luggage limits as these will apply!).

Whatever itinerary you’ve got planned, one cruise expert recently revealed the six items he recommends that you always pack. Out of those, there’s one easy mistake that a lot of people can avoid with a bit of planning.

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According to Bob McGowan, Chief Experience Officer at Ambassador Cruise Line, most people only pack a rucksack for shore excursions in mind, or poolside days on the deck. However, when it comes to the evening time, they suddenly find that they don’t have an appropriate bag for the restaurants and bars. He explained: “There is a common misconception that cruises are only about lounging around”. He explained that while you’ll want a backpack for your onshore excursions, it’s worth thinking about an evening bag too when you’re on the ship.

“Having a compact bag whilst at dinner, enjoying a show or popping to the bar can be handy – helping to avoid that moment of panic when you realise you’ve left your phone in the restaurant – whilst a rucksack is great for a big day of exploring once in port.”

Speaking of the evening, don’t forget to bring something a little fancier than your T-shirt and shorts combo for your adventures. He added: “Whilst the flamboyant and grandiose clothing once associated with cruising is less common now, it is definitely a good idea to bring along a smart outfit with gala dinners and speciality dining options often available on board. On most cruises there will be at least one black tie evening and it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underprepared. Plus, you’re on holiday – the perfect excuse to get suited and booted for the occasion!”

Do you have a simple travel hack you want to share? Email us at [email protected].