Explora Journeys marked a milestone with the delivery of Explora III at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard. This vessel, the third in a luxury cruise series, highlights MSC Group’s fleet expansion. Notably, Explora III is the first to use liquefied natural gas, reducing emissions and supporting eco-friendly operations.
A 33-year-old stewardess aboard the Celebrity Constellation was found dead in her cabin after the ship docked in La Spezia on July 19. Discovered by her partner, medical personnel pronounced her dead shortly after. Italian authorities are investigating the incident, treating it as a suspected suicide, while the family seeks legal representation.
A crew member tragically lost their life after going overboard from the Regal Princess cruise ship near Cancún, as confirmed by Princess Cruises. The cruise line expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the family. Local authorities assisted in search efforts, while the ship continued its Caribbean voyage.
A family aboard a Carnival Cruise made headlines after their eco-friendly “poop sponge,” or xylospongium, was confiscated, forcing them to abandon their trip. TikTok user Heather Farley expressed frustration over the cruise line’s hygiene policies, highlighting their commitment to sustainability while facing skepticism about the cleanliness of such ancient tools.
A crew member from Virgin Voyages has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting two passengers. The 26-year-old Indian national faces charges of abusive sexual contact. This incident raises serious concerns about passenger safety and crew conduct, prompting discussions on industry protocols for handling such allegations and ensuring a secure environment for travelers.
Greece has arrested the captain of a Bahamas-registered cruise ship after a passenger fell into the water at Corfu’s port on July 1. Strong winds caused securing lines to snap, leading to the incident. The captain faces charges for endangering a passenger’s life and neglecting his duties during the event.
The Ruby Princess is currently under lockdown in San Francisco due to a norovirus outbreak affecting over 100 passengers and 20 crew members. Princess Cruises has enacted enhanced sanitation protocols, isolating affected individuals and collaborating with the CDC. The ship is undergoing thorough cleaning before its next voyage.
A former Royal Caribbean crew member from Honduras has pled guilty to sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl aboard the Rhapsody of the Seas nearly 23 years ago. This resurfaced case highlights ongoing safety and accountability issues within the cruise industry, calling for stricter measures to protect vulnerable passengers, especially minors.
Construction has begun on a new 48-meter catamaran passenger ferry for Hy-Line Cruises, designed by Incat Crowther at Midship Marine in Louisiana. This vessel will connect Hyannis, Massachusetts, with Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, accommodating 493 passengers and achieving speeds over 30 knots, tailored for Cape Cod’s conditions.
A crew member aboard the luxury cruise ship Hebridean Princess tragically fell overboard while navigating the Sound of Mull. Police Scotland confirmed a body was found in Oban on June 16. The incident is not deemed suspicious, and authorities are investigating, with the cruise operator expressing deep condolences.
Oceanwide Expeditions announced that all remaining crew members of the Hondius completed their quarantine on June 18, 2026, and are returning home. No health complaints or further hantavirus cases were reported. CEO Remi Bouysset praised the crew’s professionalism during challenging times, with support from Dutch health authorities throughout the process.
AIDA brand of Carnival Corporation celebrated its 30th anniversary in June, highlighting its transformative impact on the German and European cruise markets. Founded in 1991, AIDA pioneered a casual cruising experience, attracting over 17 million passengers. The brand continues to innovate with sustainable technologies, ensuring a bright future for the industry.
Hebridean Island Cruises confirmed an immediate response aboard their ship following a serious incident, alerting HM Coastguard and Police Scotland. A spokesperson expressed condolences to the deceased’s family, stating cooperation with authorities as investigations continue. At the time, 38 people were on board, and the death is not deemed suspicious.
Chennai Port is set to unveil its upgraded cruise terminal following a ₹29.8 crore modernization project. Under the Cruise Bharat Mission, the terminal’s capacity has increased from 1,000 to 1,800 passengers. Key improvements include enhanced immigration facilities, modernized interiors, and dedicated customs areas, positioning Chennai as a key cruise tourism hub.
Royal Caribbean has celebrated a significant milestone with the keel-laying of its seventh Oasis Class vessel at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France. Scheduled for launch in 2028, this new ship will enhance the esteemed lineup, continuing the brand’s commitment to innovative cruising experiences and setting new industry standards.
