Paul Krieger

Paul lives in Orlando, Florida with his wife, Amy, and their three Spanish galgos, Hermès, Cinders, and Emerson. They’re Disney Vacation Club Members at five resorts, Disney World Annual Passholders, and always on the lookout for new ways to enjoy and maximize their DVC points. When he’s not at the parks or planning their next trip, Paul loves cooking (big Alton Brown fan), training for Disney races with Amy, and blasting Billy Joel in the background.

Disney Cruise Line Delays Debut of Disney Adventure Until March 2026

By Paul Krieger

September 10, 2025

Disney Cruise Line has officially announced that the highly anticipated maiden voyage of the Disney Adventure will be delayed. Originally expected to welcome guests in 2025, the ship will now set sail for the first time on March 10, 2026.

According to the company, the delay is due to “unexpected challenges in the shipbuilding process.” Disney emphasized that the decision was made to ensure the new vessel delivers the level of quality and immersive experiences fans expect.

Joe Schott, President of Disney Signature Experiences, explained:

“As we work on the final touches to bring the Disney Adventure to our guests, we’ve encountered unexpected delays in the shipbuilding process. To ensure the experience we deliver reflects our commitment to excellence, we’ve made the decision to adjust our timeline. We know this may be disappointing to our guests, and we’re working directly with them to offer flexible rebooking options and uphold the trust they place in us.”

Impact on Guests

Guests booked on the original maiden voyage are being given options to accommodate the change:

Automatic Rebooking: Reservations will be shifted to the new maiden sailing date of March 10, 2026, with a 50% discount on voyage fare.

Refund Option: Guests may request a full refund of all amounts paid if they are unable to sail on the new date.

Future Cruise Credit: A 50% discount on a future voyage is also available. The future cruise must be booked by March 31, 2026, and taken by March 31, 2027.

Disney has confirmed that affected guests will see the 50% future cruise discount noted in their accounts by October 8, 2025. However, the discount will not be visible at the time of booking; instead, it will be reflected in updated confirmation statements.

Looking Ahead

The Disney Adventure represents Disney Cruise Line’s boldest expansion yet, reimagining a partially completed ship into a one-of-a-kind experience at sea. While the delay is disappointing for eager guests, Disney has promised that the wait will be worth it once the ship is complete.

Additional 2027 Disney Adventure sailings are expected to open for booking in March 2026.

Stay tuned to The Cruising Compass for the latest updates on Disney Cruise Line and other cruise news as it develops.

Carnival Overhauls Loyalty Program with Carnival Rewards — But At What Cost?

By Paul Krieger

June 19, 2025

Carnival Cruise Line is making waves with a major update to its loyalty program. Starting June 2026, the current VIFP Club® will transition to the newly launched Carnival Rewards — a points-based system that aims to provide more flexible and personalized benefits for loyal cruisers. But while the update introduces exciting new possibilities, it also raises concerns about the future of cruise line loyalty programs as a whole.

What’s Changing?

Carnival Rewards will replace the current “cruise days sailed” model with a points-based structure that takes into account not only the number of cruises but also how much you spend on cruise fares and onboard purchases. A few key highlights of the new program include:

Earning Points based on cruise fare, onboard spending, and purchases made with the Carnival Rewards Mastercard.
Redeemable Rewards that can be used toward cruise fare, onboard purchases like shore excursions, spa treatments, retail, and specialty dining.
New Status Qualifiers (Stars) which determine your tier in the program, replacing the lifetime cruise-day model.
Phased Transition: Existing VIFP Club status will be honored for a limited time — two years for most tiers and six years for Diamond members — starting June 1, 2026.
Elimination of VIFP Club Gifts, such as branded merchandise.

Carnival emphasizes that this shift is meant to give guests more choices and control over how they are rewarded — a cruise-industry first that could soon be followed by other major lines.

Why the Change Was Necessary

Carnival’s reasoning is simple: too many guests are hitting elite tiers, diluting the value of benefits. Between 2021 and 2024, the number of Platinum members more than doubled, and Diamond members more than tripled. On newer ships like those in the Excel Class, more than 1,200 guests on a single sailing may qualify as Platinum or Diamond — making it nearly impossible to offer meaningful perks like priority boarding or exclusive event access.

This is a challenge that extends beyond Carnival. We’ve seen similar pressures on Royal Caribbean, where lounges meant for suite and certain loyalty level guests have become so crowded that certain sailings now restrict Crown Lounge access to Diamond Plus and Pinnacle members only. These loyalty tiers were originally designed to recognize a small percentage of guests — not thousands per cruise.

My Thoughts: Will This Hurt Long-Term Loyalty?

Here’s where I get personal. Amy and I have spent the last five years building our cruise habits around achieving Diamond status on Royal Caribbean. That decision came with intention — the perks (lounge access, free drinks, priority services) were worth the investment of time, money, and loyalty.

But if the industry moves toward points-based models that devalue those hard-earned tiers, the entire equation changes. If I can’t rely on consistent status benefits, then what’s the incentive to remain loyal to a single brand?

Points are great, but they’ve never held the same tangible value as elite perks. If all cruise lines go this route, I’ll likely start shopping around for better deals — maybe even sampling more cruise lines instead of sticking to one. And I doubt I’m alone in that sentiment.

So yes — while I understand the problem Carnival is trying to solve, I’m not sure this is the solution. The cruise industry has built powerful loyalty among its base, but eroding that loyalty in favor of generic “points” could backfire in the long run.

What do you think about these changes? Will Carnival Rewards enhance or diminish your experience? Share your thoughts in the comments or join the conversation in The Cruising Compass Facebook Group!

Is Disney Planning to Sail Year-Round from Galveston, Texas Starting in 2027?

By Paul Krieger

May 27, 2025

A recent city council meeting with the Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees may have just dropped a major hint about the future of Disney Cruise Line operations in Texas. While nothing has been confirmed by Disney just yet, remarks made during the meeting strongly suggest that year-round Disney sailings could soon be a reality out of Galveston starting in 2027.

Rodger E. Rees, Port Director and CEO of Galveston Wharves, stated during a discussion about the Port’s updated Master Plan:
“Disney is expanding to full-time here in Galveston starting in ’27.”
He went on to say:
“They’re putting a lot of money into that, and because of that… I believe what they’re planning on doing is bringing in… there’s a new ship. I don’t know if you recall the news that they bought a ship out of bankruptcy… it’s a bigger ship. That’s what they’re talking about bringing here.”

Is the Disney Adventure Heading to Texas?

That “bigger ship” could very well be the Disney Adventure. Originally known as the Global Dream, this ship was acquired by Disney Cruise Line out of bankruptcy during the pandemic. The ship is currently undergoing a full Disney-style reimagine and is scheduled to begin sailing in December 2025 out of Singapore on 3- and 4-night voyages.

Those sailings in Singapore are currently scheduled through September 2026. After that? Disney hasn’t confirmed its next move—but the Galveston news certainly makes you wonder. Could the Disney Adventure be headed to the Gulf Coast as part of Disney’s expanded presence?

A Growing Focus on the Western Caribbean

This move would align with a broader trend we’re seeing in the cruise industry. Royal Caribbean recently unveiled a massive Western Caribbean expansion, including its new Perfect Day at Mexico and a lineup of Royal Beach Clubs designed to enhance Western itineraries.

Disney seems to be following a similar trajectory. If they’re eyeing Galveston for year-round service, that could signal even bigger plans in the region.

Could a New Disney Destination Be Next?

Let’s take this one step further—could Disney be planning a third private destination somewhere in the Western Caribbean to support this expansion? With the popularity of Castaway Cay and the recent opening of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Disney add another island to its lineup. “Castaway Cay Cozumel,” anyone?

We’ll have to wait and see what officially gets announced, but for now, this Galveston news has certainly sparked excitement—and speculation.

Are you excited about the possibility of year-round Disney cruises from Galveston? Do you think the Disney Adventure could be headed to Texas? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or join the conversation in our Cruising Compass Facebook Group!

Royal Caribbean Announces MORE Details About Royal Beach Club Cozumel

By Paul Krieger

May 14, 2025

Royal Caribbean just keeps expanding its collection of exclusive beach destinations with the upcoming Royal Beach Club Cozumel, set to open in 2026. Located on the picturesque shores of Cozumel, Mexico, this all-new beach club promises a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Mexican flair.

A Beach Day Like No Other

Royal Beach Club Cozumel is designed to offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking to kick back by the pool, dive into thrilling water sports, or indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine. This destination will include:

Stunning Beaches: Sink your toes into the soft, white sand or soak up the sun from a comfortable lounger.
Expansive Pools: Enjoy a variety of pools to match every mood—relax in the chill-out pool, splash with the family in the activity pool, or grab a drink at one of the swim-up bars.
Private Cabanas: Elevate your beach day with private cabanas offering shade, comfortable seating, and personalized service.
Water Adventures: Explore the clear waters with snorkeling and kayaking, perfect for discovering Cozumel’s natural beauty.

A Taste of Mexico: Dining and Drinks

The Royal Beach Club experience wouldn’t be complete without a rich selection of dining and beverage options. At Cozumel, guests can look forward to:

Local Flavors: Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at a variety of eateries, including a restaurant, bar, and lounge with ocean views.
Street Market: Wander through a vibrant street market featuring freshly prepared local bites, offering a true taste of Cozumel.
Hands-On Experiences: Dive deeper into Mexican culture with tequila tastings, cooking classes, and other interactive activities.

Royal Beach Club Cozumel - Beach Picture

Authentic Mexican Vibes, Royal Caribbean Style

What makes Royal Beach Club Cozumel stand out is its commitment to capturing the spirit of Mexico. From the design and decor to the food and entertainment, every detail is meant to immerse guests in the local culture while maintaining the high level of service and quality that Royal Caribbean is known for.

And for those who want a more exclusive experience, private cabanas and poolside service offer a touch of luxury without sacrificing the laid-back beach vibe.

My Thoughts: Why I’m Excited for Royal Beach Club Cozumel

Having visited Cozumel last year, I absolutely loved this destination and the time I spent just lounging at a different private beach destination as part of an excursion. So the idea of Royal Caribbean bringing its own brand of luxury and adventure to the island feels like a perfect match. From the swim-up bars to the street market serving local bites, this feels like a destination that’s more than just a beach day—it’s an immersive experience.

Plus, I’m especially excited about the hands-on experiences like tequila tastings and cooking classes. It’s one thing to relax by the water, but getting to learn, explore the culture of Mexico, and EAT takes it to another level.

When Can You Experience It?

Royal Beach Club Cozumel is set to open in 2026, making it the second destination in Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Collection. This new addition is part of the brand’s ongoing commitment to providing guests with more exclusive, high-quality shoreside experiences.

Stay tuned to The Cruising Compass and the Cruising Compass Facebook Group for the latest updates on Royal Beach Club Cozumel and other exciting Royal Caribbean news.

Royal Caribbean Unveils Perfect Day Mexico: The Ultimate Adventure Destination

By Paul Krieger

May 14, 2025

Royal Caribbean is raising the bar on shore-side adventure with the announcement of Perfect Day Mexico, a record-breaking new destination set to open in Fall 2027. Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, this expansive 200-acre destination is packed with more thrills, chills, and never-before-seen experiences than any other private destination in Royal Caribbean’s portfolio.

Perfect Day Mexico: Double the Thrill, Double the Chill

From the moment the announcement dropped, it was clear that Royal Caribbean wasn’t holding back. This isn’t just another beach day—it’s a multi-neighborhood paradise with something for every type of traveler.

Loco Waterpark: The Biggest Splash Yet

The headline feature is Loco Waterpark, a world-class water adventure zone that’s home to more than 30 adrenaline-pumping waterslides, including:

Jaguar’s Peak: The tallest waterslide tower in all of North and South America, with 10 slides—including a two-minute, 170-foot plunge straight from the jaguar’s mouth.
The World’s Longest Lazy River: A mile-long float experience with a twist—calm waters give way to rapids and waves for those looking for a wild ride.
Family Raft Adventures: A towering slide designed for groups of four to six riders, perfect for families looking to brave the heights together.

But it’s not all about the adrenaline rush. The waterpark also includes multiple pools, including a massive 100,000-square-foot pool and a dedicated Splashaway Bay for the youngest guests.

Seven Neighborhoods, Endless Adventures

Perfect Day Mexico is divided into seven unique neighborhoods, each offering its own blend of excitement and relaxation:

El Hideaway: An adults-only escape with a swim-up bar, live DJ, and the exclusive Ultimate Party Cabana, perfect for groups.
Costa Beach Club: Elevated beachfront luxury with an infinity pool, private cabanas, and premium dining options.
Chill Beach North and South: Nearly two miles of stunning white-sand beaches with complimentary loungers and umbrellas.
Fiesta Plaza: A lively arrival zone featuring the world’s largest sombrero, live mariachi music, and local shopping.

Beyond the Beach: Dining, Drinks, and Culture

Perfect Day Mexico is more than just a collection of beaches and waterslides. It’s also a culinary destination, with 12 eateries and 24 bars, including six swim-up bars. The menus promise a mix of regional flavors and international favorites, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Live music, local art, and cultural performances will further enhance the experience, bringing an authentic Mexican vibe to this one-of-a-kind destination.

My Take: Why This is a Game-Changer

As someone who’s sailed on countless Royal Caribbean cruises and experienced the original Perfect Day at CocoCay, I wasn’t sure they could top themselves. But Perfect Day Mexico is on another level. The idea of a mile-long lazy river—especially one that can switch from calm to crazy—is wild in the best way. And I have to admit, the thought of taking a two-minute drop straight from a jaguar’s mouth at Loco Waterpark already has me planning my first visit.

The mix of family-friendly fun, adrenaline-pumping thrills, and adults-only relaxation means this is a destination that truly has something for everyone. It’s clear Royal Caribbean has put serious thought into making this a game-changing destination.

When Can You Experience It?

Perfect Day Mexico will begin welcoming guests in Fall 2027, with itineraries from Galveston, New Orleans, and Florida homeports becoming available to book this fall. Whether you’re chasing thrills at Loco Waterpark, floating through paradise on the world’s longest lazy river, or kicking back with a drink at Costa Beach Club, this is a destination you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned to The Cruising Compass for more updates on Royal Caribbean’s latest destination, including booking information and pro tips for making the most of your visit. Also join in the conversation in the Cruising Compass Facebook Group!

AquaDome Market Changes on Star of the Seas

By Paul Krieger

May 7, 2025

If you’ve sailed on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, chances are you’ve made a beeline for AquaDome Market – a standout spot for inclusive dining with an impressive array of global flavors. After all, we’ve been onboard Icon twice now, and AquaDome Market has quickly become one of our favorite places to grab a bite. That’s why we were a bit apprehensive when we first heard that Royal Caribbean was making changes to this popular venue for the upcoming Star of the Seas. But now that we’ve taken a closer look, we’re happy to report that the updates sound like a serious upgrade.

AquaDome Market on Star of the Seas will continue to offer its signature food hall experience, but with a few fresh additions. The market will now feature:

Pig Out BBQ: Savor smoky pulled pork and tender beef brisket, bringing Southern-style comfort to the high seas.
Mai Thai: Spice things up with regional favorites like pad thai and beef panang, a perfect option for those craving vibrant Asian flavors.
La Cocinita: A South American-inspired stand serving up hot, flaky empanadas, arepas, and other delicious staples.
Crème de la Crepe: Indulge in sweet and savory French delights, from classic crepes to delightful surprises.
Feta Mediterranean: A returning favorite where you can mix up fresh pitas, bowls, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

These new options replace a few of the previous offerings, including GNGR, Mac’s Mac & Cheese, and Toast and Garden. And honestly, we’re not too sad to see them go. While they were solid options, they felt a bit less adventurous and were dishes you could often find elsewhere onboard – especially at Windjammer Marketplace.

We’re particularly relieved to see that Feta Mediterranean has made the cut. Amy might’ve been ready to raise a pitchfork if they had dared to take it away! With these new food stands, AquaDome Market seems poised to become an even better go-to spot for a quick and satisfying bite onboard Star of the Seas.

We’re set to experience Star of the Seas this August, and we can’t wait to dive into these new flavors for ourselves. What do you think of these changes? Are you excited to try the new options? Let us know in the comments!

Disney Cruise Line Reveals Villainous Experiences Aboard the Disney Destiny

By Paul Krieger

April 14, 2025

Disney Cruise Line is pulling back the curtain on the dark side of its newest ship, the Disney Destiny, with a lineup of villain-themed experiences that promise to bring drama, flair, and plenty of mischievous fun to the high seas.

Today’s big reveal showcases how some of Disney and Marvel’s most iconic villains will take center stage aboard the Destiny—from immersive character encounters to atmospheric transformations that turn ship spaces into scenes worthy of the most wicked minds.

A Grand Hall of Heroes… and Villains

As with every sailing aboard Disney Destiny, the experience begins in the Grand Hall—but this isn’t your average welcome lobby. This stunning space, inspired by Marvel Studios’ Black Panther, has been reimagined to reflect the dynamic tension between heroes and villains.

Most of the time, the Grand Hall will radiate a bright, hopeful energy. But in true Disney fashion, things can change at a moment’s notice. Thanks to 360-degree lighting effects and reactive design elements, the hall will shift in tone when certain characters appear—plunging guests into a more shadowy, mysterious atmosphere.

One such transformation comes with the arrival of Loki, Marvel’s beloved God of Mischief. Known for rewriting stories and rewriting history, Loki is on a mission to win over the mortals of Midgard—one sarcastic speech at a time. From surprise proclamations to cruise-themed mischief (including commentary on soft serve ice cream), guests never quite know when or where Loki will turn up.

A Spotlight on Cruella de Vil

Style takes a sharp turn with the arrival of Cruella de Vil, who will have her own themed piano lounge onboard the ship. But it doesn’t stop there—Cruella will also take part in two exclusive entertainment experiences that blend fashion, music, and just the right amount of self-indulgence.

In one experience, fashion-forward guests will be invited to strut their stuff on Cruella’s “wretched runway,” receiving live commentary from the diva herself. Whether she’s celebrating your couture courage or offering brutally honest feedback, you can count on Cruella to tell it like it is. In another musical moment, Cruella may crash the party to rewrite her infamous theme song—this time, with lyrics more befitting of her fabulousness.

More Villainy to Come

Guests should also keep an eye out for Dr. Facilier, who brings his unique brand of magic and mischief to the Grand Hall with sleight-of-hand tricks and mysterious games of chance. And if dramatic flair is more your style, Maleficent will make her mark inside the Saga lounge, where daring guests may witness her magical demonstrations—or, for the bold, engage with the mistress of all evil directly.

From high fashion to high fantasy, the Disney Destiny is shaping up to be a ship where heroes may have the spotlight… but villains will have all the fun.

The ship sets sail for the first time on November 20, 2025, offering 4- and 5-night cruises from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean.

Want more updates about the Disney Destiny? Stick with The Cruising Compass for the latest cruise news, reveals, and in-depth coverage of this exciting new addition to the Disney Cruise Line fleet.
Be sure to follow us on social media and join the Cruising Compass Facebook Group for ongoing discussion and community updates!

First Look: Exclusive Disney Destiny Merchandise Collections Unveiled

By Paul Krieger

April 14, 2025

As the Disney Destiny prepares to set sail on its inaugural voyage this November, Disney Cruise Line has unveiled a dazzling lineup of exclusive merchandise collections that will debut onboard. From fashion-forward finds to ship-specific keepsakes, these four new collections are designed to help guests commemorate their legendary adventures at sea in true Disney style.

Whether you’re a collector, a casual souvenir shopper, or someone looking to sport your love for Disney Cruise Line, here’s what you can expect when it comes to Destiny-exclusive merch:

Disney Destiny Inaugural Collection

Every new ship deserves a signature collection, and the Disney Destiny Inaugural Collection delivers just that. Featuring a rich palette inspired by the ship’s Grand Hall—deep blue, royal purple, and shimmering gold—this elegant assortment will include wearables, homewares, and premium accessories from fan-favorite brands like Loungefly and Pandora. Guests sailing during the ship’s debut season will no doubt want to snag one of these limited-edition pieces as a commemorative keepsake.

Disney Destiny Logo Collection

For those who like their cruise apparel bold and modern, the Disney Destiny Logo Collection brings contemporary flair to sea day fashion. With tone-on-tone designs and a sleek black-and-gold color palette, this line includes trendy adult apparel and accessories that showcase both the Disney Cruise Line logo and a custom line-art rendering of the ship’s bow. These minimalist designs offer a standout, wearable way to celebrate your voyage.

Super Character Collection

Tapping into the ship’s heroes-and-villains theme, the Super Character Collection is fun for the whole family. The line reimagines Disney’s core characters—Minnie, Mickey, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto—as “Hydro Heroes,” each equipped with their own superpowers. The comic book-style graphics bring a pop of color and personality to this collection, which features plush toys, apparel, pins, drinkware, and more. It’s a playful nod to the ship’s adventurous spirit and sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Disney Destiny Ship Collection

Cruise collectors will love the Disney Destiny Ship Collection, which celebrates the ship’s unique character and design. This assortment includes a spirit jersey, ear headband, ornament, beach towel, pins, and more—all inspired by the vessel’s theming and its standout stern statue of Spider-Man. Like similar collections aboard other Disney ships, this one will be a must-have for fans of fleet-specific merch.

DisneyBand+ for the Disney Destiny

Rounding out the announcements is a brand-new Disney Destiny DisneyBand+, which will become available for pre-order in late May. Featuring Captain Minnie Mouse and the ship in a crisp nautical color scheme, this waterproof smart band adds convenience and flair to your cruise. Guests can use it for everything from boarding and room access to onboard purchases and photo linking.

Guests booked on the Disney Destiny’s maiden voyage on November 20, 2025, will be offered exclusive pre-order access to select items from these new collections later this summer. Details will be shared via each guest’s MyReservation page in the coming months.

Keep your eyes on The Cruising Compass for more Disney Destiny updates, including onboard experiences, dining, entertainment, and more as the ship’s debut approaches.
Be sure to follow us on social and join our Cruising Compass Facebook Group to chat with fellow cruisers and Disney fans planning their next great escape!

Disney Cruise Line Unveils First Dining & Beverage Experiences Aboard Disney Destiny

By Paul Krieger

April 14, 2025

As excitement builds for the upcoming debut of the Disney Destiny, Disney Cruise Line has offered a first taste—literally—of what guests can expect onboard when it comes to immersive dining and beverage experiences. Today’s media reveal introduces two standout venues that will bring Disney storytelling to life through sweets, sorcery, and showstopping drinks.

A Marvel-ous Lounge: The Sanctum

A highlight of today’s announcements is The Sanctum, a brand-new lounge inspired by the mystical world of Doctor Strange. Drawing visual inspiration from the Marvel sorcerer’s iconic New York Sanctum, this centrally located parlor blends magical ambiance with interactive beverage service.

The lounge’s design incorporates intricate Rune Shield symbols, spell books from Kamar-Taj, and nods to fan-favorite items like the Cloak of Levitation. The Sanctum will serve as a gathering space for guests of all ages throughout each sailing, offering a rotating slate of entertainment, plus a creatively curated menu of cocktails, mocktails, spirits, and coffees.

Signature drinks include the Circle of the Cosmos, crafted with Brunswick Aces Diamonds Gin and garnished with a lemon peel spiral, and the Vapors of Valtorr, a vibrant blend of vodka, ginger beer, and butterfly pea flower syrup topped with berry-flavored bubbles. Small bites like stuffed waffles with custard cream or mixed berry compote will also be available to round out the lounge’s mystical menu.

Edna Á La Mode Sweets: Style Meets Sugar

Also making its debut aboard Disney Destiny is Edna Á La Mode Sweets, a whimsical dessert venue inspired by everyone’s favorite superhero fashion designer from The Incredibles. The concept reimagines Edna Mode’s high-tech lab into a one-of-a-kind sweet shop, complete with repurposed sewing equipment that now serves up confections for the Parr family’s youngest hero, Jack-Jack.

Families will enjoy interactive displays, including a sculpture of Edna and Jack-Jack baking together and an appearance by Rocky the raccoon from the Auntie Edna short film. The venue’s design fuses futuristic tech with Pixar flair, featuring fashion sketches, costume models, and colorful treats.

The sweets menu includes an eye-catching lineup of cupcakes themed to the Incredibles characters, such as Violet’s Purple Velvet Cupcake, Mr. Incredible’s Double Chocolate Fudge, and Elastigirl’s Orange-Almond creation. Guests can also indulge in Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums, homemade gelato and ice cream, gourmet popsicles, and exclusive chocolate bark “postcards.”

These new venues are just the beginning of what’s to come aboard the Disney Destiny, which begins sailing on November 20, 2025, offering 4- and 5-night itineraries from Fort Lauderdale to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean.

Hungry for more? Stay tuned to The Cruising Compass for continuing coverage of Disney Destiny’s big reveal—including dining, entertainment, and onboard experiences you won’t want to miss.
Don’t forget to follow us on social and join our Cruising Compass Facebook Group to stay connected with fellow cruise fans and Disney Cruise Line enthusiasts!

Norwegian Cruise Line Says Farewell to Norwegian Sky & Norwegian Sun

By Paul Krieger

April 7, 2025

Big changes are on the horizon for Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) as two of their long-standing ships prepare to set sail into a new chapter—outside the NCL fleet.

Norwegian Cruise Line has officially announced that Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun will be leaving the fleet in the coming years, marking the end of an era for these beloved vessels. The news comes as part of NCL’s broader strategy to modernize its fleet and make way for the next generation of ships, including the cutting-edge Prima Plus Class.

Departure Dates and New Homes

Norwegian Sky will be leaving the NCL fleet on August 20, 2026
Norwegian Sun will follow in Q4 of 2027

Both ships have been chartered long-term by Cordelia Cruises, India’s leading premium cruise line. The move not only signals exciting growth for the Indian cruise market but also gives these two vessels a fresh start with a new audience.

Unfortunately, this also means that all sailings on Norwegian Sky starting August 20, 2026, and beyond will be canceled. Guests affected by the cancellations will receive a full refund automatically, along with a 10% Future Cruise Credit (FCC) as a gesture of goodwill. Commissions for fully paid bookings will also be protected.

For many NCL loyalists, Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun hold a special place in their cruise memories. Whether it was short Bahamas getaways or scenic Alaska adventures, these ships have been workhorses of the fleet and delivered unforgettable experiences for decades.

As Norwegian Cruise Line put it in their announcement:

“We are truly grateful for their years of service… it is the right time to say farewell.”

If you’re hoping to cruise on either ship one last time, NCL encourages guests to explore their remaining itineraries before they retire from the fleet.

What’s Next for NCL?

This transition is part of NCL’s larger fleet evolution plan, which includes an ambitious lineup of new ships through 2036. At the forefront are two eagerly awaited additions:

Norwegian Aqua – Delivering in 2025
Norwegian Luna – Joining the fleet in 2026

These ships are part of the Prima Plus Class, which builds upon the innovation introduced with Norwegian Prima and Viva. Expect boundary-pushing features like the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, and a revamped Game Zone experience that blends VR, retro arcade games, and interactive challenges.

With seven new ships currently on order, NCL is doubling down on enhancing guest experiences and bringing more of what cruisers love—innovative design, elevated dining, and immersive onboard entertainment.

While it’s always bittersweet to say goodbye to familiar ships, the future of Norwegian Cruise Line looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re planning to be part of Norwegian Sky or Sun’s final sailings or dreaming of future voyages aboard Aqua or Luna, The Cruising Compass will be here to guide you through every wave of change.

We’ll continue to keep you updated on the latest cruise news, fleet announcements, and tips for making the most of your time at sea. And hey, if you’ve sailed on Norwegian Sky or Sun—let us know your favorite memories! Drop a comment or join the conversation in our Cruising Compass Facebook Group.

Author: Paul Krieger

Impact on Guests

Looking Ahead

What’s Changing?

Why the Change Was Necessary

My Thoughts: Will This Hurt Long-Term Loyalty?

Is the Disney Adventure Heading to Texas?

A Growing Focus on the Western Caribbean

Could a New Disney Destination Be Next?

A Beach Day Like No Other

A Taste of Mexico: Dining and Drinks

Authentic Mexican Vibes, Royal Caribbean Style

My Thoughts: Why I’m Excited for Royal Beach Club Cozumel

When Can You Experience It?

Perfect Day Mexico: Double the Thrill, Double the Chill

Loco Waterpark: The Biggest Splash Yet

Seven Neighborhoods, Endless Adventures

Beyond the Beach: Dining, Drinks, and Culture

My Take: Why This is a Game-Changer

When Can You Experience It?

A Grand Hall of Heroes… and Villains

A Spotlight on Cruella de Vil

More Villainy to Come

Disney Destiny Inaugural Collection

Disney Destiny Logo Collection

Super Character Collection

Disney Destiny Ship Collection

DisneyBand+ for the Disney Destiny

A Marvel-ous Lounge: The Sanctum

Edna Á La Mode Sweets: Style Meets Sugar

Departure Dates and New Homes

What’s Next for NCL?