The recent turnaround of Celebrity Millennium at Mumbai’s Ballard Pier underscores the city’s ability to meet global cruise standards while retaining its local charm. With 2,062 guests onboard, this event demonstrated Mumbai’s capacity for high-volume cruise operations, enhancing hospitality and efficiency, and signaling potential for future lucrative itineraries in the Arabian Sea.
On January 19, 2026, Meyer Turku shipyard began production of the fifth Icon Class vessel for Royal Caribbean Group. The steel-cutting ceremony marked the start of over two years of construction. Scheduled for delivery in summer 2028, this ship will enhance the Royal Caribbean fleet with innovative holiday experiences.
Imagine unwinding on the deck of a cruise ship, soaking in the ocean views, when flashes of light from a small raft disrupt the peace. On September 28, 2025, Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas diverted course to rescue 8-12 stranded individuals, showcasing the crew’s bravery amid a raging storm.
A norovirus outbreak has impacted passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas, with 71 out of 1,874 affected since the voyage began on September 19. Symptoms include diarrhea and vomiting. The CDC is monitoring the situation, while the cruise line has implemented enhanced cleaning protocols and isolated those ill.
A Royal Caribbean crew member died after allegedly stabbing a colleague and jumping overboard aboard the Icon of the Seas near San Salvador Island. The 35-year-old man attacked a 28-year-old woman before fleeing into the water. He was later found unresponsive and pronounced dead, while she remains in stable condition.
Over 140 individuals aboard the Royal Caribbean ship Navigator of the Seas fell ill during a cruise from Los Angeles to Mexico, as reported by the CDC. Symptoms included diarrhea and vomiting. In response, Royal Caribbean intensified cleaning and isolated affected passengers while the CDC investigates the outbreak’s cause.
Royal Caribbean Group, a prominent player in the vacation industry, has joined the Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII) to reduce methane emissions in the maritime sector. With a focus on transitioning to LNG fuels, the initiative aims to combat methane emissions with industry collaboration. Royal Caribbean Group’s involvement is crucial in driving sustainability efforts.
Royal Caribbean has appointed Sailor as the chief dog officer (CDO) for the upcoming ship, Star of the Seas, following the success of Rover on Icon of the Seas. The new ship will offer waterparks, dining options, and a refreshed Empire Supper Club. Legend of the Seas will debut in 2026.
Royal Caribbean is poised for a successful year in 2025, with a projected 23% increase in earnings. Share prices surged by 12% on the news, exceeding analysts’ estimates. The company’s record-breaking start to the “WAVE” season is attributed to new ship investments. CEO Jason Liberty announced plans for Celebrity River Cruises, impacting industry rival Viking Holdings.
The Vizag International Cruise Terminal (ICT) in Visakhapatnam is set to open in March, costing Rs 96.05 crore. It can accommodate 2,000 passengers and has various facilities. Discussions with major cruise lines are ongoing. The Vizag Port also completed the Vizag International Cruise Terminal (VICT) to attract more ships and boost tourism in the region.
Michael Virgil, a 35-year-old man, passed away aboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas after being subdued by the security team following an outburst. The cause of death is still unknown, and steps are being taken to protect the privacy of those involved. Virgil leaves behind a wife and 7-year-old son.
A Royal Caribbean cruise departing from San Pedro, California, turned chaotic when a drunk passenger caused a violent scene on the Navigator of the Seas. The incident occurred just an hour after the ship set sail for Ensenada, Mexico. Despite the security team’s efforts, the incident marred what was supposed to be a celebratory vacation.
Royal Caribbean has raised its annual profit forecast for the fourth time this year due to strong demand and higher prices for its private destinations, European, and Alaskan vacations. Analysts expect a healthy 20% profit growth in 2025, reflecting the company’s evolution into a more consistent, higher-return business.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings raised its profit forecast for the third time, benefitting from high demand for luxury travel. CEO Harry Sommer reported record bookings for budget cruises, leading to increased ticket prices. Despite strong earnings in Q2, the company’s shares declined due to rising oil prices and slightly lower revenue expectations.
Cruise operator Royal Caribbean Group is seeking to hire thousands of workers to keep up with the record demand for cruises worldwide. Bookings hit a new high in 2023, prompting the company to increase its workforce. With plans to hire over 10,000 employees and commission new ships, their growth strategy is in full swing.
