Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) is making significant waves in the industry with a historic new order. The cruise giant, in collaboration with Italian...
*Please note this post is not sponsored. We paid for our stay. Our opinions are our own.*
For our recent girls’ weekend, we chose the Hampton Inn Rochester Greece, and it turned out to be the perfect home base for our trip. The hotel’s location was a major plus—within walking distance of several great local restaurants and just a short drive to The Mall at Greece Ridge for shopping.
We selected this hotel based on its reviews and were happy with our decision. One of the highlights for us was the indoor pool, though we were a bit surprised to find that the hot tub shown in online photos was no longer there.
Some of our group also took advantage of the fitness center, which, while compact, offered weight machines, a treadmill, a Peleton and mats for stretching or yoga.
Each morning, we enjoyed the complimentary breakfast, which included two kinds of waffles, hot items like eggs, sausage, potatoes, and ham, along with pastries and cereal—plenty of choices to start the day.
Our double queen room had everything we needed for a comfortable stay.
The large bathroom with a tub made it a great option for families.
The room’s entertainment area featured a large flat-screen TV with a variety of channels, plus a single-serve coffee maker, microwave, and mini fridge.
We also appreciated the individual temperature control, allowing us to keep the room just how we liked it. Overall, the hotel was clean, well-kept, and provided a great experience. Coffee and warm beverages in lobby were a nice touch after a day out.
If we visit the area again, we’d definitely stay here!
Things to Do in Rochester
Rochester is home to a variety of attractions and museums, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway. On Saturday night, we headed downtown for a fun evening at Bad Axe Throwing, a unique and entertaining way to spend the night. If you’re in the area, don’t miss a visit to High Falls, a scenic spot right in the heart of downtown.
On previous trips, we’ve explored some of Rochester’s top attractions, including:
The Strong National Museum of Play – an interactive space that offers a perfect blend of fun, learning, and nostalgia for visitors of all ages
Letchworth State Park – Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
George Eastman Museum – A fascinating stop for photography and film enthusiasts.
Genesee Country Village & Museum – A step back in time with historic buildings and live demonstrations.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) is making significant waves in the industry with a historic new order. The cruise giant, in collaboration with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, has announced a deal for four brand-new cruise liners, a contract reportedly valued at around 9 billion euros ($9.34 billion). This marks the single largest order ever secured by Fincantieri, emphasizing the growing demand for next-generation cruise experiences.
Fincantieri, which has previously constructed two ships for NCL, will deliver a third vessel—the highly anticipated Norwegian Aqua—set to launch in the coming months. The newly commissioned ships will be constructed at the Monfalcone shipyard in northeastern Italy, with the first ship expected to set sail in 2030, followed by subsequent deliveries in 2032, 2034, and 2036.
Few details are available about the ships. Each of these forthcoming vessels will be approximately 226,000 gross tons and will accommodate more than 8,300 people, including crew, setting a new benchmark for Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet. As cruise lines push the boundaries of ship design, these behemoth vessels highlight the industry’s commitment to larger, more innovative, and more immersive experiences for passengers worldwide.
Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean International continues to dominate the world of mega cruise ships with its groundbreaking Icon Class. The first ship in this class, Icon of the Seas, currently holds the title of the world’s largest cruise ship, boasting a gross tonnage of approximately 250,800 and a maximum occupancy of around 7,600 passengers, including crew. This record will soon be joined by its sister ship, Star of the Seas, launching in August 2025, followed by a third Icon Class vessel set to debut in 2026.
In a story of remarkable courage and resilience, a young boy has been found alive after surviving five harrowing days in Zimbabwe’s Matusadona Game Park—a sprawling wilderness teeming with lions and elephants. The incident has captured global attention, showcasing the power of human spirit and survival instincts even in the face of life-threatening danger.
The ordeal began when seven-year-old Tinotenda Pudu wandered 23 km (14 miles) from his home into Matusadona Game Park, a vast, untamed expanse in northern Zimbabwe. The park, known for its rugged beauty, is also infamous for hosting one of Africa’s densest lion populations. According to African Parks, the 1,470-square-kilometer (570-square-mile) reserve is home to zebras, hippos, antelope, and over 40 lions.
Mashonaland West MP Mutsa Murombedzi shared details of Tinotenda’s ordeal on X, calling the terrain “perilous.” The young boy navigated the harsh environment by sleeping on rocky outcrops to avoid predators and foraging for wild fruits.
Survival Against the Odds
Tinotenda demonstrated incredible ingenuity by using survival skills taught in his drought-prone community. He dug small wells into dry riverbeds with a stick to access drinking water—a technique that likely saved his life.
For five days, he endured close encounters with roaring lions and passing elephants, all while battling hunger and fatigue. The community of Nyaminyami played a vital role in the search effort, forming a search party and beating drums daily to guide him home. However, it was ultimately park rangers who rescued him.
On the fifth day, Tinotenda heard a ranger’s vehicle and sprinted toward it, narrowly missing being spotted. Fortunately, the rangers noticed fresh footprints and scoured the area until they found him. “This was probably his last chance of being rescued after five days in the wilderness,” said MP Murombedzi.
The Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority confirmed the rescue, correcting earlier reports that the boy was eight years old. Across social media, Tinotenda has been lauded as a symbol of resilience and bravery. “This is beyond human comprehension,” one person wrote on X. Another quipped, “He’s going to have one hell of a story to tell when he gets back to school.”
A family’s visit to Kaluapele (Kīlauea Caldera) nearly ended in tragedy when a toddler wandered into a closed area at Kīlauea Overlook and ran toward the edge of a 400-foot cliff. In a heart-stopping moment, the child’s mother managed to grab him just a foot away from disaster. The shaken family left safely, but the incident highlights the importance of adhering to park safety rules.
Park rangers are now reminding visitors to stay on marked trails, avoid closed areas, and keep children close while exploring Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, especially during high-risk activities like viewing volcanic activity along the Crater Rim Trail.
“The hazards associated with an eruption are real and dangerous,” said Park Superintendent Rhonda Loh. “We have safety measures in place—barriers, closure signs, and traffic management—but we depend on visitors to act responsibly. National parks showcase nature’s splendor, but they are not playgrounds.”
Eruption Hazards and Increased Risks
The recent eruption of Kīlauea, which began on December 23, has entered a second pause, but hazards remain. Toxic gases, unstable cliff edges, and hidden terrain pose significant risks, especially at night. Glassy volcanic particles, called tephra, blanket parts of Crater Rim Drive, while elevated sulfur dioxide emissions continue to affect air quality.
Increased visitation during eruptions has added to the risks. Drivers are urged to slow down, watch for pedestrians and nēnē (Hawaiian geese), and use low beams to avoid blinding others.
Visitors with respiratory or heart conditions, pregnant women, and children are especially vulnerable to volcanic gases and should check air quality conditions before and during their visit.
Safety Tips for Volcano Viewing
Viewing an eruption is a rare and memorable experience, but it requires preparation and caution. The National Park Service offers the following tips to ensure visitor safety:
Stay in designated areas: Never enter closed or restricted zones. Viewing overlooks are established for your safety.
Stay on marked trails: Avoid hazardous terrain, including unstable cliff edges and lava flows.
Check volcanic activity updates: Stay informed about current conditions.
Monitor air quality: Volcanic gases can be harmful; check alerts before visiting.
Wear appropriate clothing: Bring sturdy footwear, warm clothing, and raingear, especially for nighttime visits.
Be prepared: Carry a flashlight, first aid kit, and extra water.
Use protective gear: Masks and goggles are recommended during ashfall.
Follow ranger guidelines: Always adhere to evacuation routes and ranger instructions during unsafe conditions.
The National Park Service urges all visitors to appreciate Kīlauea’s awe-inspiring power while respecting the natural dangers that come with it. By following safety measures, families can enjoy the wonder of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park responsibly and safely.
Set to open in December 2025, Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Paradise Island promises to redefine the ultimate beach day for vacationers. This marks the debut of the vacation brand’s Royal Beach Club Collection, blending the pristine beauty of Paradise Island’s beaches with Royal Caribbean’s renowned experiences and a vibrant infusion of Bahamian culture. Designed as an all-inclusive retreat, the new destination offers everything from tranquil beaches and pools to thrilling experiences like the world’s largest swim-up bar and live performances by local musicians.
All-Inclusive Experience with a Bahamian Flair
According to Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, the new offering caters to every type of vacationer: “The Royal Beach Club Collection is designed for every type of family and vacationer to get everything they want out of their ideal beach day – no matter the vibe they’re looking for.”
Spanning 17 acres on the western end of Paradise Island, the beach club combines exclusivity with all-inclusive amenities. Visitors purchasing a day pass will enjoy a seamless experience, starting with a scenic water taxi ride and extending to unlimited food, beverages, and activities. The club will feature:
Stunning beaches and pools tailored to different preferences.
Three swim-up bars and seven beach bars for endless refreshment options.
Over 40 cabanas, including the innovative Ultimate Family Cabana with its own slide, whirlpool, and frozen drink machine.
The Ultimate Beach Day Across Three Zones
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is designed to offer distinct experiences through its three unique zones:
Family Beach
Ideal for vacationers of all ages, Family Beach offers shaded retreats and shallow waters, making it perfect for families. The nearby Shallow End pool and various beach games like tug-of-war and paddle ball add to the fun.
For a luxurious family retreat, the Ultimate Family Cabana boasts two stories of amenities, including a thrilling slide and a dedicated whirlpool.
Chill Beach
Vacationers seeking relaxation can lounge by The Deep End pool or unwind on the powdery white sands of Chill Beach. This zone also highlights Bahamian culture through artisan shops and island-inspired cuisine, featuring dishes like grilled shrimp skewers and fire engine fritters.
Party Cove
The place to keep the energy high, Party Cove features The Floating Flamingo, the world’s largest swim-up bar. Adventurers can enjoy DJ-spun beats or elevate their experience with VIP poolside service and stunning ocean views.
A Community-Centric Approach
Developed in partnership with the Bahamian government, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island showcases Bahamian culture in every aspect, from its architectural design to live music, local artisan shops, and authentic culinary offerings. This project also underscores Royal Caribbean’s dedication to supporting the local economy through hundreds of job opportunities for Bahamian workers and entrepreneurs.
The public-private partnership model represents a groundbreaking collaboration that benefits both visitors and locals. “This partnership builds on nearly five decades of collaboration with the community and government of The Bahamas,” said Bayley.
Accessible Luxury
Starting in 2025, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will be accessible via Royal Caribbean cruises departing from six U.S. cities: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral (Orlando), Cape Liberty (New Jersey), Galveston, and Baltimore. These itineraries include everything from short three-night getaways aboard Utopia of the Seas to seven-night escapes on Symphony of the Seas, providing the option for all cruisers.
Expanding the Destination Lineup
Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is the latest addition to the brand’s growing portfolio of destination experiences, which already includes the top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Future plans include the Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026 and Perfect Day Mexico in 2027, offering vacationers even more ways to create unforgettable memories in the Caribbean.
The Corning Museum of Glass is a unique destination for those looking to explore the world of glassmaking. Located in Corning, New York, this world-renowned museum showcases 3,500 years of glass history, blending art, science, and history in one experience.
We’ve visited the museum a few times and are always in awe of the stunning glass sculptures from around the world. While the museum is family-friendly, it may not be ideal for toddlers or very young children, as much of the focus is on history, which they might not fully appreciate. However, exposing them to such beauty and craftsmanship could spark their interest for future learning. Older kids, especially teens, might find it fascinating to connect the exhibits to what they’ve learned in history classes, as my teens did.
Getting There and Parking The museum offers ample parking with several large lots, making it easy to access and navigate. They have a line painted on the sidewalk that takes you from the parking lot to the front door.
Exhibits and Highlights Upon entering, the first space you’ll encounter is the Collidoscope exhibit, featuring the work of Einar and Jamex de la Torre. These Mexican-American brothers are celebrated for their intricate glass sculptures and mixed-media installations, which combine traditional glassblowing with digital and multimedia elements. Their kaleidoscopic creations weave together pre-Columbian art, religious iconography, pop culture, and themes of identity and globalization.
Just beyond Collidoscope, the Contemporary Art + Design gallery houses iconic pieces like the Forest Glass exhibit, Raining Knives, and the Glass Lynx.
The Hot Shop is a must-see. Here, glassblowing demonstrations take center stage in an amphitheater setting. Each 20-minute session walks visitors through the process of creating vases, bowls, and sculptures, showcasing the skill and precision involved in every step.
The Innovation Center dives into the science of glass, exploring early glass-making techniques and the role glass plays in modern technologies, from fiberglass to fiber optics.
One of my personal favorites is tucked away in 35 Centuries of Glass. This section features two standout areas:
Global Glass History: Pieces dating back to 350 CE, categorized by region, showcasing the evolution of glass from its origins in Mesopotamia and Egypt to global artistry.
Tiffany Studios: A collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s stained glass windows, lamps, and mosaics from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, highlighting his innovative designs and the beauty of Favrile glass.
Don’t Miss the Gift Shop No visit is complete without a stop at the museum’s expansive gift shop—one of the largest I’ve ever seen in a museum. It offers a large selection of glass art, souvenirs, books, and even museum pieces displayed on the second floor. During our fall visit, the shop was filled with gorgeous blown-glass pumpkins, perfect for Halloween.
Tips For Visiting:
Arrive Early: The museum is expansive, and arriving early allows you to explore at your own pace.
Set Aside Enough Time: Allocate at least 3-4 hours to see the galleries, participate in workshops, and shop.
Reserve Ahead: Workshops like Make Your Own Glass (MYOG) fill up quickly. Book your spot online in advance.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: If you’re participating in glassmaking, avoid open-toed shoes and wear comfortable clothes suitable for hands-on activities.
Schedule Check: Check the daily schedule for live demonstrations. They’re informative and fascinating to watch.
Potential Savings Through Local Hotels: Many nearby accommodations offer package deals that include discounted admission.
Enjoy The Museums Cafe: The café has an excellent selection of meals, snacks, and beverages. It’s a great place to refuel before continuing your visit.
Plan To Visit Nearby Attractions: Corning is part of the Finger Lakes region. Consider exploring nearby wineries, hiking trails, or Watkins Glen State Park.
Cunard is ushering in a new era for its Queen Elizabeth ship, marking an exciting milestone as it prepares to debut in the Caribbean and Alaska in 2025. This transformation represents a bold step forward for the iconic cruise line, blending tradition with modernity to create a luxury experience for travelers.
From February 25 to March 13, 2025, Queen Elizabeth will undergo an extensive refurbishment at Seatrium’s Admiralty Yard in Singapore. This transformation sets the stage for two remarkable chapters in her journey: a dazzling inaugural Caribbean season departing from Miami in October 2025 and her highly anticipated Alaska program, launching from Seattle in June.
The Caribbean itinerary will begin with a 12-night roundtrip voyage, inviting guests to explore Bridgetown’s UNESCO-listed Garrison and the vibrant markets of Castries, St. Lucia. Queen Elizabeth will also make history as the first Cunard ship to spend an entire season based in Miami. Guests can choose from a range of itineraries, from nine to 28 nights, that include stunning destinations such as Montego Bay, Jamaica; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and St. John’s, Antigua.
Enhancements to Signature Spaces
Signature spaces will be thoughtfully redesigned to enhance guest comfort while connecting them to the surrounding ocean.
Key updates include:
Queens Room: This iconic venue, home to Cunard’s celebrated Afternoon Tea and ballroom dancing, will feature a refreshed dancefloor, new furniture, and enhanced soft furnishings.
Commodore Club: Boasting redesigned fixtures, fittings, and furniture, this elegant lounge will offer an elevated space for guests to unwind with bespoke cocktails and panoramic sea views.
Pavilion Pool: Enhancements include stylish new poolside furniture and the introduction of The Pavilion Wellness Café, offering a menu of plant-based cuisine alongside sustainably sourced meat, fish, and dairy.
Staterooms and Suites: Guests can look forward to luxurious updates, including new balcony furniture, upgraded mattresses, USB ports, and refined soft furnishings, ensuring unparalleled comfort.
Elevating the Grills Experience
For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, the Grills experience on Queen Elizabeth is set to reach new heights. The exclusive Grills suites and lounges will undergo significant enhancements, featuring elegant decor and sumptuous furnishings. Guests in these premium accommodations will also enjoy a bespoke dining experience crafted by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux.
The new three-course Gala Evening menu, available exclusively to Grills guests, is a testament to Roux’s culinary expertise. Dishes are designed to celebrate the finest ingredients, delivering a dining experience as memorable as the voyage itself.
“Crafting exclusive new menus for Cunard’s Grills guests is an extraordinary privilege,” says Michel Roux. “This project allows me to blend my passion for fine dining with the timeless elegance and sophistication that define the Cunard Grills experience.”
Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea
Queen Elizabeth will also feature the Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea program, introduced on the newly launched Queen Anne. This innovative offering provides tailored three-day wellness packages designed to restore energy, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being.
Cunard’s Vision for the Future
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, reflects on the significance of this transformation:
“As Queen Elizabeth prepares for her debut seasons in the Caribbean and Alaska, this refurbishment marks a pivotal moment for Cunard. Inspired by the beauty of these extraordinary destinations, the revitalized ship will seamlessly blend timeless elegance with modern comforts, offering guests an unparalleled experience. We are especially thrilled to introduce Chef Michel Roux’s exclusive Gala Evening menu, a highlight of the Grills dining experience.”
The Mexican Congress has announced plans to introduce a $42 immigration tax on cruise passengers visiting its ports, slated to take effect in 2026. The tax, part of a broader effort to address the nation’s fiscal deficits, has sparked a heated debate within the tourism industry and beyond. Cruise lines, local businesses, and industry experts warn that the levy could jeopardize Mexico’s standing as a top cruise destination in the Caribbean.
The new immigration tax aims to generate additional revenue for Mexico, with a significant portion reportedly earmarked for military spending. However, critics argue that this allocation could hinder tourism development, the very sector the tax relies on. Historically, cruise passengers have been exempt from such fees since they typically remain aboard their ships during port visits. Instead, port fees—paid as part of the cruise fare—cover costs like pilotage, docking, and per-passenger charges.
Under the new legislation, the tax applies to every cruise passenger, regardless of whether they disembark, adding to the costs already borne by tourists and cruise lines.
Major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, have vocally opposed the tax. These companies fear that the added expense could deter travelers, prompting them to choose alternative destinations. The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) has formally urged Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to reconsider, warning that the tax could discourage over 10 million annual cruise passengers from visiting Mexico.
The Mexican Association of Shipping Agents echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the tax might make Mexican ports among the most expensive worldwide. A spokesperson noted that such a move could significantly reduce Mexico’s competitiveness in the region, potentially shifting itineraries to neighboring nations with more favorable conditions.
For local communities, particularly in regions like the Yucatán Peninsula, cruise tourism is a vital economic driver. Destinations such as Cozumel, often dubbed the “cruise capital of the world,” welcome millions of passengers annually. These visitors inject significant revenue into local economies through hospitality, retail, and transportation.
Number of cruise passengers in Mexico in 2022, by port
A decline in cruise tourism due to increased costs could spell trouble for small businesses and workers who rely on the industry. Reduced visitor numbers may lead to lower incomes, job losses, and an overall economic downturn in these regions.
The $42 tax is not the only new charge on the horizon. Beginning in 2025, cruise passengers will also face a $5 fee aimed at supporting Mexico’s National Disaster Prevention Fund. While this initiative focuses on recovery efforts from hurricanes and other natural disasters, the cumulative effect of these taxes could make Mexico less appealing to travelers compared to neighboring Caribbean destinations.
Mexico’s Caribbean coast is a fiercely competitive tourism hub, with countries like the Bahamas, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands vying for cruise itineraries. These destinations boast lower fees and established infrastructures, making them attractive alternatives for cruise lines and passengers.
The $42 tax could tip the scales further in favor of Mexico’s competitors, leading to potential losses in market share and revenue.
Proponents of the tax suggest it may help address over-tourism by reducing the influx of visitors to popular destinations. However, experts warn that higher fees could backfire, driving tourists to less regulated areas or countries with lower costs.
Sustainable tourism initiatives, such as improving infrastructure and adopting environmentally friendly practices, are seen as more effective solutions for managing over-tourism. Critics argue that Mexico risks undermining its reputation as a cruise destination by focusing on short-term revenue generation at the expense of long-term viability.
The Senate’s ongoing debate over the tax offers a chance for stakeholders to find common ground. Industry leaders have called for greater transparency in fund allocation, advocating for investments in tourism infrastructure rather than military expenditures. Such measures could help preserve Mexico’s appeal while addressing fiscal challenges.
Negotiations may also explore alternative funding mechanisms that balance national priorities with the needs of the tourism sector.
Mexico’s decision to impose a $42 immigration tax on cruise passengers represents a pivotal moment for its cruise tourism sector. While intended to address fiscal deficits, the tax risks alienating cruise lines, reducing visitor numbers, and harming local economies.
With cruise prices already at an all-time high, the move could prompt vacationers to choose other options entirely. As an avid traveler, I’m not paying additional costs on top of the port charges and fees we already pay to cruise. At a certain point, it feels like a cash grab with no additional value for the visitor.
For travelers, food can make or break the journey. Delta Airlines is rewriting the in-flight dining playbook with a bold new partnership: Shake Shack. Beginning December 1, Delta will serve Shake Shack Cheeseburgers on select First-Class flights departing from Boston, making it possible to enjoy an iconic burger at 30,000 feet.
This collaboration is part of Delta’s ongoing mission to elevate its onboard experience, and what better way to start than with a beloved American classic? The initiative will initially launch on flights longer than 900 miles out of Boston, with plans to expand to additional U.S. markets throughout 2025.
A Game-Changing Approach to Airline Dining
Shake Shack’s signature Cheeseburger is at the heart of this sky-high menu. Featuring a 100% Angus beef patty, melted cheese, and a toasted potato bun, the burger is served with customizable toppings—like tomato, lettuce, and the brand’s famous ShackSauce—offered on the side. The meal is rounded out with chips, a Caesar salad, and a dark chocolate brownie reminiscent of Shake Shack’s decadent dessert offerings.
Stephanie Laster, Managing Director of Onboard Service at Delta, highlighted why this partnership is a natural fit. “A delicious cheeseburger is an iconic comfort food. Our customers know that, which is why burgers are one of the top menu items we offer. With Shake Shack, we’re taking that offering to the next level,” she said.
But it’s more than just the food. Laster emphasized how Shake Shack’s people-first culture and commitment to community resonate with Delta’s own values of service excellence. “This collaboration goes beyond the burger—it’s about creating an experience that enriches the journey for our customers,” she added.
Shake Shack’s First Foray into the Skies
This marks the first time Shake Shack has brought its burgers to the in-flight dining scene. Michael Kark, Shake Shack’s President of Global Licensing, is excited about the innovation. “At Shake Shack, we’re always looking for new and creative ways to meet our guests where they are—even at 35,000 feet,” said Kark. “Partnering with Delta allows us to share our beloved cheeseburgers with travelers across the country in a whole new way.”
The collaboration also reflects Shake Shack’s origins with Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG), led by founder Danny Meyer. Delta’s relationship with USHG has already brought meals from Union Square Events to flights out of JFK, and this partnership further strengthens their shared commitment to exceptional dining experiences.
Seamless Pre-Selection
For those looking to indulge, Delta offers an easy pre-selection process. First-class customers can choose the Shake Shack Cheeseburger as their entrée option through the Fly Delta app or an email link, starting seven days before departure and up to 24 hours prior to takeoff.
Beyond Burgers: Delta’s Seasonal Refresh
Just in time for the holiday season, Delta is also rolling out updates to its food and beverage program. Alongside the Shake Shack collaboration, the airline is refreshing its seasonal wine offerings and introducing new snacks and meals curated by award-winning chefs.
For years, pet parents have had to leave their beloved dogs behind when embarking on a cruise. But that’s about to change in a major way. While Cunard has long been the only cruise line allowing pets onboard—albeit restricted to kennels below deck—Margaritaville at Sea is setting sail into new waters with an innovative pet-family cruise.
Launching in November 2025, this groundbreaking voyage aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Islander will welcome 250 dogs and their families for an unforgettable pet-friendly adventure. Sailing out of Tampa, Florida, this special itinerary will cruise to Key West and Mexico, offering amenities and activities tailored to humans and their four-legged companions.
“This cruise is more than a vacation — it’s a celebration of the unbreakable bond between people and their dogs,” Dawn von Graff, owner of Expedia Cruises of West Orlando told Travel And Leisure. Designed for dog lovers, the cruise promises a unique experience where everyone—both two-legged and four-legged—is made to feel like part of the family.
Each dog-friendly cabin comes with its very own pet butler to maintain cleanliness and comfort throughout the trip. Balconies are outfitted with private dog relief stations, ensuring your pup’s needs are met with ease.
Activities and Amenities for the Pack
The Margaritaville at Sea Islander cruise will feature a range of dog-themed activities and amenities, including:
Dog shows, training sessions, and costume contests.
Guest speakers and workshops on canine health and behavior.
Dog-friendly splash stations to cool off and play.
Onboard services like grooming appointments and relaxing puppy massages.
Gifts and samples from top pet brands.
For passengers seeking a break from the canine commotion, the ship offers dog-free zones, such as its casino and various lounges, for a bit of tranquility.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for all, dogs must meet strict health and vaccination requirements. They must remain leashed in public spaces and are not permitted in human dining areas.
Passengers will also sign a photo waiver, as the cruise promises to generate plenty of buzz on social media. With contests, sponsorships, and viral moments likely to abound, this voyage is perfect for social media-savvy pet parents—but not ideal for anyone preferring to stay out of the spotlight!
The Margaritaville at Sea Islander, which launched earlier this year, offers a host of amenities for both humans and dogs. The ship features multiple restaurants, lounges, and unique spaces, including a three-story poolside LandShark Bar and a stunning 14-story atrium.
While the cruise is still more than a year away, excitement is already building. Registrations are expected to open as early as December 2024, with detailed protocols to be released soon.
Whether you’re a devoted dog parent or simply a dog lover eager for a unique travel experience, this voyage promises to be a tail-wagging good time. So pack your bags—and your pup’s favorite toys—and get ready to cruise into history as part of Margaritaville’s first-ever pet-family cruise.
Will you be among the lucky 250 to embark on this pawsitively perfect adventure?
