Cruise Radio: Weekly Cruise News & Travel Tips

In this episode of Cruise Radio, host Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Simms cover the latest industry news, including Royal Caribbean's extended suspension of Haiti port calls, norovirus outbreaks, Norwegian Cruise Line branding changes, and the end of free cabin upgrades or "upgrade fairy." Ryan shares a detailed review of his five-night Carnival Paradise cruise, highlighting his suite upgrade, dining experiences, New Year's Eve festivities, and port visits to Nassau and Celebration Key. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekky since 2009.

Ralph shares his highlights from a seven-night cruise on MSC Grandiosa, emphasizing the ship’s blend of European and Latin influences. He discusses the embarkation experience, cabin comfort, and various dining venues, including critiques of the layout and service. Entertainment shines with standout live music and Cirque-style shows, although some elements fell flat. Ocean Cay Marine Reserve earns praise as a favorite private island. Practical tips are provided for future cruisers, emphasizing the importance of utilizing the app for bookings.

A review of Carnival Venezia on a nine-night Caribbean cruise from New York City. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. TripInsurance.com president Dan Skilken answers some listener question.

This week on Cruise Radio, we cover cruise news along with a ship review of Disney Wish. Stories include a rescue at Celebration Key, Hawaii's new cruise passenger tax, and changes at Norwegian Cruise Line's private destination, Great Stirrup Cay. In this episode: A four-year-old fell between Carnival Sunrise and the pier at Celebration Key and was rescued by her mother and crew members Hawaii implemented an 11% cruise passenger tax effective January 1, 2026 Around 100 passengers reported gastrointestinal illness on Celebrity Eclipse Coral Adventurer ran aground on a reef near Papua New Guinea, and passengers were evacuated Norwegian Cruise Line opened a new pier and amenities at Great Stirrup Cay, with drink package changes Review of Disney Wish Ship review: The three-night sailing aboard Disney Wish departed from Port Canaveral, with a planned stop at Nassau changed to a sea day due to weather, and a visit to Castaway Cay. The review covers rotational dining across three themed restaurants, Broadway-style shows, and adult-only spaces. Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips every week since 2009.

A seven-night cruise on Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas from Bayonne, New Jersey to Florida and The Bahamas. This cruise had a stop in Nassau, Port Canaveral, and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

An eight-night review of Carnival Panorama from Long Beach, California to the Mexican Riviera.

Ashley Kosciulik, a travel journalist and cruise reviewer, shares her insights from a two-night preview on Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ship, Celebrity Excel. She highlights the smooth embarkation process and her first impressions of the grand atrium. Ashley raves about the unique staterooms, specialty dining options like Raw on Five and Bora, and upgraded entertainment experiences. She also discusses the refreshing ambiance of the Bazaar and the impressive nightlife offerings, concluding that the Celebrity Excel is a fantastic addition to their fleet.

Richard Sims, a staff writer and cruise news contributor, joins to discuss the impressive new Star Princess, part of the Sphere class. They cover the ship's unique design, family-friendly amenities, and dining experiences, including the magical Spellbound speakeasy. Richard shares insights on the bustling Port Canaveral and the innovative Ocean Medallion technology. From lively pubs to serene outdoor spaces, the Star Princess promises an unforgettable cruise experience, making it a must-consider option for future trips.

Guest Stephen, a recent passenger on the Norwegian Jade, shares insights from his 12-night repositioning cruise from Vancouver to San Diego. He praises the ship's cleanliness, friendly crew, and the surprising value of his ocean-view cabin. Stephen highlights enjoyable dining experiences, particularly at Cagney’s and specialty restaurants. He also reflects on Alaska's stunning scenery, relaxing sea days, and a memorable stroll through San Francisco. With a focus on relaxation and strong overall satisfaction, Stephen thinks repositioning cruises offer exceptional value.

A review of the inaugural cruise of Disney Destiny.