Princess Cruises ship gets banned from entering Caribbean port
If you've sailed on multiple Caribbean cruises, it's pretty likely that on one of your voyages, you've received the dreaded news that your ship will miss one of its planned ports of call.
It happens most often when poor weather conditions prevent a cruise ship from entering a port. For example, on my very first cruise many years ago, rough seas led our captain to divert from the Cayman Islands toward better weather in Costa Maya, Mexico.Occasionally, however, a different kind of reason prevents a cruise ship from visiting one of the destinations on its itinerary.
Passengers sailing on Princess Cruises' Enchanted Princess just found out what that's like, as their ship was turned away from the highly anticipated final port of call on its Caribbean itinerary on May 22.
Doug Parker shared details on why the Princess Cruises ship wasn't permitted to visit the destination, and other cruise news, on the May 23rd edition of Cruise News Today.Transcript:
Cruise News Today with Doug Parker.
Good morning, here's your cruise news for Friday, May 23rd.
A cruise ship was turned away from the Grand Turk cruise port yesterday after dozens of passengers were sick. The Princess Cruises Enchanted Princess reported 50 cases of respiratory illnesses, flu, and stomach issues.
Health officials reviewed the ship's medical report and decided the risk was just too high for the island. Because Grand Turk is so small and easy to get around, sick passengers could quickly spread the illnesses.
Health Minister Kyle Knowles said that protecting residents and visitors comes first. Enchanted Princess is on a seven-night cruise from Port Everglades and returns tomorrow.And Carnival Cruise Line is warning guests not to try sneaking into its exclusive Havana pool area using counterfeit or resold wristbands. Yeah, this is a story.
Brand Ambassador John Heald says some passengers have been buying Havana access bands online and attempted to pass them off as premium guests. Carnival uses random wristband colors that change each cruise, and the crew are trained to spot intruders. Carnival says violators risk being removed from the area or even the ship. I'm sorry.And Carnival Splendor's crew rescued four sailors and three dogs from a disabled catamaran in the South Pacific on Thursday morning. The ship was sailing just south of New Caledonia when it received a distress call and diverted course, reaching the vessel five hours later.
The catamaran had suffered engine failure and a broken mast in bad weather. All four people and three dogs were safely brought on board and given food, water, and medical care.
Carnival says the rescue won't impact the ship's itinerary. Way to go.And the photo of the week comes from Connie: Carnival Luminosa here in Skagway, Alaska. Beautiful picture here. Got a nice rainbow, too. Love this.
Send yours in. Photos@cruiseradio.net. All photos are subject to broadcast.
And cruise stocks were up on Thursday. Carnival Corporation: up 1.7%, 22.43. Royal Caribbean: up slightly, 238.40. Norwegian: up 1.3%, 17.44. And Viking: up slightly, 43.17.
If you have a lead on a story, let us know. Tips@cruiseradio.net.
Have yourself a great weekend. I'm Doug Parker with Cruise News Today.
(The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.)
, or email Amy Post at or call or text her at 386-383-2472.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
3 hours ago
- Forbes
How To Vacation Like A Billionaire In The British Virgin Islands
Virgin Gorda is the third-largest of the British Virgin Islands. The British Virgin Islands draw crowds each year to explore sites like Cane Garden Bay and the Soggy Dollar Bar, but when it comes to experiencing unparalleled luxury, it's tough to find a better destination than Virgin Gorda. Along the island's North Sound, a multitude of world-class luxury communities have cropped up in recent years, earning the region the nickname 'the Billionaire's Playground'—and few sites exemplify the moniker as well as Oil Nut Bay. Home to fifteen distinct neighborhoods across 400 acres, this seaside escape offers a truly staggering array of high-end amenities, offering an opportunity for guests to experience the pristine beauty of the British Virgin Islands at their most luxurious. Oil Nut Bay is only accessible via boat or helicopter. Immediately upon arrival, Oil Nut Bay guests will be greeted with dazzling views of turquoise water, towering seaside cliffs and fascinating avifauna, all of which can be encountered in abundance during a stay at the property's Cliff Penthouse. Measuring in at 1,334 square feet, this palatial space offers some of the finest views in all of the Caribbean, with floor-to-ceiling windows, an expansive outdoor shower and an open-air terrace perched high above the water's edge—and to sweeten the deal, it also comes equipped with a marvelous infinity pool. Designed to enhance the beauty of the Virgin Gorda coastline, this sleek feature is perfect for soaking in the sun all throughout the day, while twilight brings the opportunity to catch a stellar sunset. While it may be tempting to spend your entire stay lounging poolside in view of the cliffs, Oil Nut Bay offers a wealth of can't-miss amenities found just beyond villa limits. Across the community, guests can make use of the fitness studio or stroll along one of the five separate hiking trails—but for a truly relaxing experience, it's tough to beat the Sundara Spa. A recent addition to Virgin Gorda, this polished venue serves as the first overwater spa in all of the British Virgin Islands, with multiple design flourishes that enhance the rich beauty of the surrounding sound. Treatments span from aromatherapy massages to seaweed body wraps, and each session offers plenty of opportunity to gaze at the colorful fish that call the region home, with large windows installed under each massage table to showcase the ocean below. Virgin Gorda's North Sound is renowned for its optimal sailing conditions. Lavish amenities abound across Oil Nut Bay, but the community also offers an opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with the native flora and fauna of Virgin Gorda. All throughout the day, guests can marvel at tropicbirds soaring along the cliffs or swing by the nature center to catch a glimpse of wild flamingos—but for best results, be sure to spend some time on the water. Stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling and kayaking are just a few of the activities offered by Oil Nut Bay, while the North Sound has earned worldwide acclaim for its exemplary sailing opportunities, providing guests with a chance to surge along the surf and bask in the vibrant beauty of the coastline with an experienced captain. Sea turtles, rays, and reef fish have all flourished across the North Sound for eons, and Oil Nut Bay has made it their mission to ensure a promising future for all native flora and fauna. From its earliest conceptualization, Founder David V. Johnson has made sustainability a central pillar of the Oil Nut Bay ethos, with a robust range of programs in place spanning from desalination and rain collection to extensive use of solar panels. Beyond these initiatives, the community also reserves 200 acres as green space, leaving plenty of room for the indigenous Turk's head cactus to flourish—and aside from plants, Oil Nut Bay also serves as a crucial haven for orphaned animals across Virgin Gorda, operating an on-site Rescue Barn that's home to cats, tortoises, horses and emus. Salt fish plays a prominent role in many Caribbean cuisines. You're certain to build up an appetite after a day of sailing, and fortunately, Oil Nut Bay excels at the art of high-end drinking and dining. During a trip to the waterfront Marina Village, guests can find a particularly lively lunch and dinner spot in the form of Nova, with a wealth of dishes that highlight local cuisine as well as flavors from far beyond the Virgin Islands. Sushi fans can spring for spicy tuna, salmon and rainbow rolls, while the venue also crafts an ultra-flavorful green coconut curry—but for a taste of the rich flavors of the Caribbean at their best, be sure to order the grilled whole Anegada lobster, a savory option that's elevated with a citrus-heavy dose of mango salsa. While Nova is certainly impressive, the Beach Club is also prime territory for fine dining with the added bonus of three separate pools and a swim-up bar. During morning hours, guests can gear up for their day with a hearty serving of johnny cake and salt fish, while rum fans should be sure to indulge in an afternoon tasting designed to showcase some of the Caribbean's most established brands—and come evening time, the main dining space is perfect for a romantic meal bathed in the golden glow of sunset. While options span from eight-ounce beef fillets to rosemary-infused racks of lamb, the venue is particularly adept at seafood, providing diners with an opportunity to feast on top-quality dishes like spaghetti frutti di mare and roasted red snapper.
Forbes
6 hours ago
- Forbes
Royal Caribbean Credit Card Review 2025: Sailing Nowhere Fast
The sea may be calling, but the Royal Caribbean Visa Signature Credit Card* is not. Though the card carries so much potential, most cruisers will be disappointed by its low earning rates and distinct lack of benefits while traveling. For a no annual fee card, the welcome bonus delights. You have the opportunity to earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 and a $50 discount for flights booked with Royal Caribbean's Air2Sea program after spending $3,500, both within the first 90 days of account opening. You can double the value of each point by choosing your reward redemptions carefully. Saving up your points for cabin upgrades, companion fares or cruise vacations can lead to returns of up to 2 cents per point, which is a good return if you're willing to patiently wait for your next reward. Why you can trust Forbes Advisor Our credit card editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Advertisers do not and cannot influence our ratings. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the credit card methodology for the ratings below. This card could feel like a cruise to nowhere based on how low the earning rates are. There's only one bonus category—charges made with Royal Caribbean or its sister brands—and purchases top out at 2 points per dollar spent. The vast majority of your purchases will only earn a single point per dollar. Airline and hotel credit cards typically lavish cardholders with extras like status boosts, priority boarding or discounts, but the Royal Caribbean Visa doesn't offer a single benefit while cruising. The Royal Caribbean Visa Signature earns MyCruise points at the following rates: Additionally, as a new cardholder, you can earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 and a $50 discount for flights booked with Royal Caribbean's Air2Sea program after spending $3,500, both within the first 90 days of account opening. Royal Caribbean (and its sister brand, Celebrity Cruises) offer an assortment of redemption options for MyCruise points. Of these, onboard credit, discounts on cruises and charitable donations have the easiest-to-understand values: Your points are worth 1 cent each, meaning 15,000 MyCruise points would buy you $150 in onboard credit or as a discount off your cruise fare. More exciting options—with a higher return per point—include stateroom upgrades, complimentary companion fares or entirely free cruises. The exact value per point on these varies by the precise sailing you're booking, but could increase your point value up to two cents each. For example, the same 15,000 MyCruise points that are worth $150 in onboard credit are also enough to cover the cost of an upgrade on a four to eight-night cruise from an interior to oceanview stateroom valued at up to $300. Free cruises begin at 50,000 MyCruise points for a three or four-night cruise in an oceanview stateroom (valid on cruise fares up to $1,000). Eligible seven night sailings may be redeemed for 125,000 points. This could be a nice incentive for saving your points until you have enough for a larger redemption. Cardholders can also redeem their points for merchandise, though it generally represents poor value. Forbes Advisor uses estimated spending amounts to simulate the number of points you might earn from this card in one year. Based on data from multiple government agencies, our research shows that a household earning in the 70th percentile brings in $127,200 of income and can reasonably charge $40,398 to a credit card across the following categories: Royal Caribbean Visa Signature Credit Card* Rewards Potential The Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature Credit Card* is nearly identical to the Royal Caribbean card—both cards have no annual fee, no foreign transaction fee and earn MyCruise Rewards points at the same rate. For the most part, you'll simply need to choose between the branding that shows on your card name and design. With the Celebrity Cruises Credit Card, you'll still have access to redemptions, including cruise vacations, discounts and onboard credit at the same prices. Currently, there's one slight advantage to choosing the Royal Caribbean version of the card: Only the Royal Caribbean credit card offers new cardholders a small discount on Air2Sea bookings. The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a fantastic, flexible rewards card, especially if you're looking for one without an annual fee (rates & fees). It has no foreign transaction fee and features flexible rewards. While you can't redeem Capital One miles directly for a free cruise, you can reimburse yourself for any travel expenses charged to the card. That's similar to the rate you'd get for onboard credit or fare discounts with the Royal Caribbean card. There are two reasons why the VentureOne could be a better choice for your needs. First, it has a higher base earning rate of 1.25 miles per $1 spent, which means your rewards will add up 25% faster. Additionally, your rewards can be transferred to partnering airlines and hotels. Not only does that add versatility, but it could lead to even greater values. One of the best ways to earn rewards on your cruise fare is with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. If you're willing to reserve your cruise through Chase Travel rather than directly with the cruise line or another agency, you can earn 5 Ultimate Rewards® points per dollar on your fare. Onboard charges earn 2 points per dollar, which is the same multiplier you'd get from the Royal Caribbean card. The Sapphire Preferred has an annual fee, though most cardholders find they get enough value from the card to offset it. You'll get a $50 credit for hotel bookings made with Chase Travel annually, perfect for a night if you arrive at your point of embarkation the night before. The card also includes numerous forms of travel insurance and the ability to transfer points to airlines or hotels for additional redemption options. Additionally, your points are worth 25% more, or 1.25 cents each, when used for travel booked through Chase Travel (including cruises). Unfortunately, the Royal Caribbean Visa Card doesn't quite hit the mark when choosing a travel rewards credit card. We love that it offers no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, but it lags many other cards in terms of earning rates, redemption versatility and the value per point. Unless you have a massive amount of regular spending with Royal Caribbean, you're likely better off looking for a card with broader options. Forbes Advisor considers a variety of criteria when assigning credit cards a rating. Cards are graded based on numerous factors, including: We give greater weight to the card features we believe cardholders will use most frequently. These factors combine to generate a star rating for each card. To learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process, check out our guide on how Forbes Advisor rates credit cards. *The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: Royal Caribbean Visa Signature Credit Card, Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature Credit Card. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Forbes
9 hours ago
- Forbes
Retiring Abroad On A Military Pension—3 Expat Havens For U.S. Veterans
Bavaro beach, Dominican Republic. Over the past three decades, the number of Americans who want to retire overseas has tripled—that's according to a recent Monmouth University poll. Among them is a growing community of U.S. veterans. According to John H. Davis, an author, veteran advocate, and co-founder of Veterans in Paradise, veterans are particularly suited to expat life. 'Serving in the military provides you with a unique comfort with change, resiliency in unfamiliar surroundings, and diverse perspectives,' says John. 'Veterans are adaptable, adventurous, and after navigating foreign countries, eating diverse cuisines, and experiencing different cultures they've practically earned a PhD in cultural immersion.' As is the case for most retirees, a move overseas can be transformative. Benefits can include a lower cost of living, a more laidback lifestyle, a more favorable climate, and a chance to pursue your passions and reinvent your life. For veterans, there are other key factors to consider too. 'As well as taking into account practical needs such as where one can live well on a military pension and other personal preferences, for most veterans countries with an already existing veteran expat population will go to the top of the list,' says John. 'They will also want to consider health care options geared towards veterans and locations where veteran programs and organizations are established.' Taking those factors into account, here are three destinations where U.S. veterans can enjoy a comfortable retirement. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic is one of the most affordable spots in all of the Caribbean. It's blessed with beautiful beaches, lush jungle, mountain getaways, and offers an easy path to residency. It's also close to the U.S. and allows expats full ownership rights of real estate. Indeed, it's where John and his friend, fellow retired veteran and co-founder of Veterans in Paradise, Keith Pyron have chosen to call home. They're part of a 20,000-strong community of retired veterans in the DR. 'There are veteran health care centers around the island, catering specifically to American veterans who accept the Foreign Medical Program of the Veterans Administration,' adds John. 'The Dominican people are very welcoming, friendly, and love to have a good time. It's the birthplace of Bachata, baseball is king, and it's the only country in the world with the Bible on its flag.' Of course, as with anywhere there are some downsides to life in the DR. Power outages are not uncommon and certain areas are prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, but for most, the positives here far outweigh the negatives. 'I'll tell every veteran, this place saved my life,' says Keith. El Nido, Palawan Island, The Philippines, The Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, has much to recommend it to retirees including stunning white-sand beaches, established expat communities, and an extremely low cost of living—on average around half that of the U.S. During World War II, more than 250,000 Filipino troops fought under U.S. command. A treaty, signed after WWII ended, led to the establishment of U.S. military bases within the country. In addition, The Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) was built by the U.S. in Quezon City as a gift of gratitude to those Filipino soldiers who served. For U.S. veterans living in The Philippines today, the VA Manila Regional Office and Outpatient Clinic—the only VA clinic outside the U.S.—provides health care and benefits. Another big draw for The Philippines is that English is one of the country's official languages and is widely spoken. Plus, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion operate posts in the country, making it a great option for veterans. Red frog beach, Basimentos Island, Bocas del Toro, Panama. Panama has long been a haven for expats, from mountain town Boquete to beach town Bocas del Toro to bustling Panama City, there's truly something to suit everyone in this diverse isthmus. U.S. veterans have a long history with Panama and many veterans that served there opted to stay on or return in retirement. In Panama City, you'll find every modern convenience, impressive infrastructure, world-class health care, and a welcoming community of English-speaking expats. Plus, Panama uses the U.S. dollar and offers a gold-standard visa program for retirees—the pensionado—and you don't need to be of retirement age to qualify. If you're 18 years of age or above and receive a monthly income of at least $1,000 you may qualify. You also need to provide a police record check and a health certificate as part of the application process but generally speaking it's quick and straightforward. Plus, the Panamanian people are welcoming, you can find a climate to suit your preferences, and a move there can cut your cost of living considerably.
