Cruise News & Clues 12.18.25

Welcome aboard our latest wave of cruise news and clues! We’ve scoured the seas of social media, cruise groups, and online articles to bring you the best of what’s making waves. With so many tips, tricks, and Q&As floating around out there, we’re here to help you navigate the chatter and find the real treasures. Let’s dive in.

Cruise News

• And the winners are:

  https://www.travelweekly.com/Readers-Choice-2025/list-of-winners-2025-Readers-Choice-Awards

• Virgin is not your typical crowded cruise

  https://www.virginvoyages.com/ahoy/stories/why-virgin-voyages-cruise-ships-feel-spacious-not-crowded

• Bookings are now open on MSC World Atlantic!

  https://www.travelweekly.com/Cruise-Travel/Reservations-open-MSC-World-Atlantic

• MSC bans Smart Glasses.

  https://www.thetravel.com/msc-cruises-beats-royal-caribbean-to-it-and-generates-standing-ovation-for-newest-ban-on-annoying-sunglasses/

• Jamaica ports are back in business!

  https://cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/2025/12/main-jamaica-cruise-ports-now-open-after-hurricane/

• You DON'T want to miss this Status Match program Virgin launched!

  https://www.virginvoyages.com/press/latest-releases/sailing-club-status-match

• Carnival will sponsor the July 4th fireworks in San Diego 2026

  https://www.carnival-news.com/2025/12/11/carnival-cruise-line-to-help-light-up-san-diego-bay-for-americas-250th-birthday

• Carnival offers "Inclusive" package deals through 12.18.25.

  https://cruisepassenger.com.au/news/carnival-pilots-new-all-inclusive-packages-but-aussies-miss-out-again/

• Grandmother boards cruise ship with firearm and is detained in the Bahamas.

  https://people.com/grandmother-caught-with-loaded-gun-on-royal-caribbean-cruise-in-the-bahamas-fox-hill-prison-nassau-11865532

Clues & FAQs

Disney Q&A

• Can I book Bibbidy Boutique more than once during my cruise?

  • It’s not possible to book it twice.

MSC Q&A

• Is there Bingo on board?

  • Yes!

Royal Q&A

• I have food sensitivities (gluten and dairy) Is it easy to navigate around allergens?

  • I have always found it very accessible and accommodating.

  • They have always been kind enough to make requested items and in the back they have GF breads, buns, etc. You can always ask to have someone show you around the buffet, and always let your servers know of your sensitivities.

• Is it worth it to buy the Wow Bands?

  • Yes, it makes it so easy to get in your room. I didn’t have to dig for my sea pass and they can be reprogrammed for use on other ships.

  • The convenience was well worth it.

  • No, it was a pain having to take it off for purchases, always having to give it to the bartender.

  • The only thing I find them useful for is getting into your cabin.

Virgin Q&A

• What daytime activities are there during sea days?

  • Once you board, the app will show you the daily activities. Trivia, bingo, puzzles, arts & craft, live music, karaoke, board games, they do give aways in the shopping area and spa.

  • VV has a lot of athletic/workout options (Zumba, cycle, run, aerobics, kickboxing, pickle ball, dodge ball, etc). The Happening Crew have scheduled performances and pop ups. And yes, the shows, restaurants, and casino.

Please remember, the above Q&A are what cruisers have posted on social media forums. Facts, opinions, charges, policies, etc., may change. Please refer to your specific cruise line or your travel agent to receive the most up-to-date and accurate information.