Crystal has announced a leadership change on the bridge of Crystal Serenity, with veteran Captain Placido Libro taking command of the luxury cruise ship beginning August 14, 2026.
Captain Libro succeeds Captain Birger J. Vorland, who recently retired after a maritime career spanning nearly 50 years.
Six passengers have been reported to Italian authorities after allegedly unauthorized access to MSC Divina onboard PA system and broadcasting false emergency announcements that caused concerns among passengers during the ship's voyage to Naples.
Starting tomorrow, August 1, 2026, cruise passengers visiting Mexican ports will pay a higher Non-Resident Duty (DNR) as the country's phased tourism fee increases from $5 to $10 per person.
The increase is part of an agreement reached between the Mexican government and the cruise industry after negotiations over the originally proposed $42 fee. The phased approach was designed to support tourism while helping Mexican cruise destinations remain competitive.
A 44-year-old Georgia man was arrested after the cruise ship Carnival Glory returned to Port Canaveral, Florida, following allegations that he assaulted two children while they were playing aboard the ship.
Spanish National Police have arrested an 18-year-old man in connection with an alleged sexual assault reported by an 18-year-old woman during a cruise sailing between Barcelona and Mallorca. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under review.
A Florida man is facing federal charges after U.S. authorities discovered child sexual abuse material on his phone during an inspection at PortMiami following a cruise to the Bahamas.
According to a federal criminal complaint, Steve Lee Lawson, age 45 from Florida, arrived at PortMiami on July 24 aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Getaway after completing a Bahamas itinerary. Homeland Security Investigations launched the case after Lawson was referred for a secondary inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Aroya Cruises will continue its partnership with Saudi football powerhouse Al Nassr FC after renewing its sponsorship agreement for the 2026-2027 season, extending a collaboration that began in 2023.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has reached an agreement to sell Oceania Sirena, continuing the gradual transition away from the classic R-class ships that helped define the Oceania Cruises brand for more than two decades. The company has not disclosed the buyer or financial details of the transaction.
Celebrity Cruises has increased its automatic daily gratuities for all guests, with the new rates taking effect immediately on July 29, 2026.
The cruise line informed booked guests of the change, explaining that the daily service charges help support the crew members who contribute to the onboard experience.
The updated gratuity rates are:
