BREAKING CRUISE NEWS - CRUISE LINES ANNOUNCE INNOVATIONS
Major Cruise Changes Just Announced
I’ve been catching up on some of the more unusual cruise news from last week that I missed while on our river cruise. Some interesting changes are coming to the cruise industry, and we’re not sure how to feel.
Leading up to the main cruise season, cruise companies such as Carnival Corp, Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages and Marella amongst others have come up with some innovative approaches to trial and they might change the way we sail forever! - Here is a roundup.
🔹 Pre-Booked Sunbeds Only
To stop the dreaded sunbed wars, guests will soon be required to pre-book their loungers in advance, on the App. No more early-morning towel reservations! Guests will keep the same bed for the duration of their cruise.
🔹 Muster Drills Now Available as a Pre-Cruise Online Course
To save time on embarkation day, guests will soon have the option to complete their safety briefing at home before boarding, with additional OBC being offered to guests providing their own life jackets.
🔹 Seasickness Training Now Mandatory
First-time cruisers will now be required to attend a motion sickness preparation course. This includes a simulated “rocking ship” experience and advice on seasickness management. 🤢
🔹 Buffet Reservations Now Required
To improve flow and reduce waste, guests will now need to pre-book buffet time slots. Miss your slot? You’ll have to wait for the next availability.
🔹 Dress Code Crackdown at the Buffet
Cruise lines are trialling a buffet dress code, banning swimwear and enforcing formal nights at the carving station.
🔹 Buffet Traffic Lights Installed
Another cruise line is going further and trialing new buffet “traffic management systems. These will include stoplights, “pedestrian crossings” at pinch points, and buffet speed limits. VIP guests may receive fast-track access to the carvery station/Full English Breakfast lines.
🔹 Infinity Pool Cabins Announced
Several new ships are to offer select new suites which will feature private infinity pools 🌊 also under development are New Underwater Balcony Cabins! – Forget ocean views—immersive cabins below the waterline are the next big thing!
🔹 “Soft Waves Mode”
Another innovation announced this week for Haven guests will allow guests to “simulate gentle rocking” in their cabins—even in port.
🔹 Fresh Air Fee Introduced
Starting next month, cruise lines will reportedly charge guests for stepping onto outdoor decks. Standard air will be metered, while “VIP Breeze” packages offer premium oxygen flow for an extra fee. 😮💨
Good ideas, or taking things too far?! Let us know what you think! 👀 in comments.
