Cruise News for November 3, 2022
Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas was unable to port in Lyttelton, New Zealand due to high winds making navigation too hazardous. This ship is on its first sailing of the Australian season and is also the first Royal Caribbean ship in Australia since 2019.
“Unfortunately, Ovation of the Seas was unable to berth this morning due to strong north-west winds in the forecast for the day here at Lyttelton,” said Phil de Joux, Lyttelton Port Company chief corporate affairs officer.
“Safety is always the first priority and there are wind speed limits for all berths and vessel types here in Lyttelton as at other ports.”
Hurricane Lisa has caused Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady to change ports on her mermaiden voyage.
In an effort to move from the path of Hurricane Lisa, Valiant Lady canceled a stop at Costa Maya and is visiting Cozumel instead. Cozumel is about 130 miles north of Costa Maya.
Fortunately, Valiant Lady should not need to adjust any more of her ports of call before returning to Miami on Saturday, November 5.
Citing increasing supply costs and concerns over waste, Carnival Cruise Line is making changes to dining options.
Carnival Cruise Line has announced new costs to several main dining room entrees, increases to specialty dining costs and they have discontinued the 24/7 ice cream option. Complimentary ice cream is not discontinued completely as it is still available from 11 a.m. to midnight daily.
Norwegian Cruise Line has launched a Military Appreciation Program. This affords 10% off all cruise fares, exclusive experiences, and onboard recognition. The program applies to all cruises beginning January 1, 2023, on all 18 Norwegian ships.
The program is for all active and retired United States military and their spouses and booking began on November 2. The offer can be combined with NCL’s Free at Sea which gives even more discounts.
Matthew Lewis, Senior Vice President and Chief Security Officer for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, is a retired member of the U.S. Navy and explained that the program was designed by and for veterans to commend and thank them for their service and dedication.