Cruise Industry Faces Varied Challenges and Growth

The cruise industry experienced a dynamic week with notable events ranging from the launch of new vessels and confirmed orders for future ships to unusual passenger incidents and significant security breaches. These developments highlight both the ongoing expansion of the global cruise market and the operational complexities faced by cruise lines.

New Ship Navigates Tricky River Passage

The new Disney Destiny cruise ship recently completed a challenging journey along the Ems River in Germany. This maneuver is standard for vessels built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, which is located 20 miles inland from the North Sea.

The ship sailed backward for much of the journey. This method provides better control and visibility for the pilot. It also protects the ship's propellers from potential damage from the riverbed.

The 144,000-gross-ton Disney Destiny started its river transit on September 19, 2025. It arrived in Eemshaven, Netherlands, on September 21, 2025. The official handover to Disney Cruise Line is expected soon.

Guest Chooses to Depart Cruise Permanently

A unique incident occurred during a Carnival Horizon cruise when a 47-year-old female guest, Jessica Collins, did not return to the ship in Kralendijk, Bonaire. Carnival Cruise Line reported her missing to local authorities after she failed to re-board by the designated time on September 17, 2025.

The situation took an unexpected turn when Ms. Collins sent a text message to a ship's Care Team member. In the message, she stated she was safe and did not wish to be located or contacted. She had disembarked with all her belongings, which reportedly included only a backpack. She also left a thank-you note and a tip for her cabin steward.

"The guest texted one of the ship’s Care Team members with a message that said she is safe and does not want to be found or contacted."

Bonaire authorities initiated a search despite her message. Disembarking from a cruise ship at a port of call is not a legal method for immigration. The reason for her departure remains unknown.

Waterslide Incident Goes Viral on Social Media

A video showing a female passenger stuck inside a waterslide on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship gained widespread attention online. The 13-second video, posted on TikTok on September 19, 2025, quickly accumulated over 7 million views and nearly 10,000 comments.

The footage shows the guest halted in a section of the 'Ocean Loops' slide where the water flow was low. The slide is positioned high above the ocean, adding to the visual drama. She eventually managed to move past the stuck point and complete the ride.

The exact ship was not identified, but the Ocean Loops slide is featured on three Norwegian Cruise Line vessels: Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy, and Norwegian Encore. All three ships were operating Alaska itineraries around the time the video was shared.

Many online commenters expressed feelings of panic or claustrophobia at the thought of being stuck in such a position over the open water.

Major Car Theft at UK Cruise Terminal Parking

Cruise passengers returning to Southampton, England, faced an unwelcome surprise when they discovered their cars had been stolen from a parking facility near the port. A total of 17 vehicles were reported missing from a locked warehouse on September 9 and 10, 2025.

The parking lot, operated by Southampton Cruise Parking Services, is located on First Avenue in Millbrook. It offers a free shuttle service to and from the cruise terminals. The facility advertises 24-hour surveillance and CCTV security.

Local authorities are investigating how thieves managed to access a supposedly secure, locked warehouse to steal such a large number of vehicles. The incident has raised concerns among travelers who rely on such services.

Royal Caribbean Expands Icon-Class Fleet

Royal Caribbean International has confirmed an order for a fifth Icon-class cruise ship, currently referred to as 'Icon 5.' This expansion is part of an extended partnership with the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, with the new vessel scheduled to debut in 2028.

The agreement also includes an option for 'Icon 6' and adds a new option for 'Icon 7.' This extends Royal Caribbean's contractual commitments with the Finnish shipyard through the year 2036.

The Icon class was introduced with the 248,663-gross-ton Icon of the Seas in 2024. The Star of the Seas launched in August 2025, and the Legend of the Seas is set for summer 2026. Another ship, 'Icon 4,' is planned for 2027.

In addition to new ships, Royal Caribbean is developing several land-based attractions. The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in the Bahamas is slated to open in December 2025. A beach club in Cozumel, Mexico, is planned for 2026, and 'Perfect Day Mexico' is scheduled for 2027.

Technical Issue Delays Norwegian Escape's Return

Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Escape experienced a propulsion problem that reduced its speed, causing a significant delay in its return to New York. The vessel, carrying 4,200 guests, was on a 5-night Bermuda cruise that departed on September 19, 2025.

The ship was expected back in port by 7 a.m. on September 24, 2025. However, due to the technical issue, it sailed at approximately 16 knots, significantly below its top speed of around 23 knots. This resulted in an arrival time of approximately 2 p.m. that afternoon.

The delay impacted both disembarking and embarking passengers. Guests with early flights had to rebook. Norwegian Cruise Line automatically updated arrangements for those who booked air travel through the cruise line. For independent bookings, the line offered up to $300 USD in reimbursement for non-refundable or uncovered airline change fees.

The subsequent embarkation for the next cruise was also delayed. Guests for the September 24, 2025 sailing, who normally board around noon, were unable to embark until between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. The cause of the propulsion problem has not been publicly disclosed by the cruise line.

'Prank Ducks' Cause Confusion on Carnival Ships

A new trend involving "prank ducks" has emerged on Carnival Cruise Line ships, creating confusion among guests and crew. Cruise ducks are typically part of a game where passengers hide rubber ducks for others to find, often with attached tags. This activity is generally seen as harmless fun.

However, some individuals have begun hiding "prank ducks" with tags that falsely promise a free drink. The tags read:

"Congratulations! You have found one of our ducks! 1 free drink redeemable at the casino bar! Thank you for sailing with Carnival!"

Carnival Cruise Line has clarified that these prank ducks are not official and the free drink offer is invalid. John Heald, Carnival's brand ambassador, addressed the issue on his Facebook page. He asked those responsible to stop the practice, noting it puts casino bar staff in an awkward position when they have to deny guests the promised drink and explain the joke.