Hurricane season is right on schedule and that means cruisers need to be extra aware of how storm systems may impact their sailings. Waves crash onto rocks ahead of Tropical Storm Karen in Puerto Rico. Photographer: Gabriella N. Baez/Bloomberg UPDATE: Erin is now a hurricane and forecast to become a CAT4 over the weekend into early next week. This storm will stay east of Florida but produce dangerous rip currents and swell next week along the east coast. Tropical Storm Erin has officially formed and is on track to impact the Eastern Caribbean by the end of the week, making it the first hurricane of the season to impact this region. Of course, here is great uncertainty this far out in the forecast, but all cruisers should watch the storm carefully. No cruise line has made any itinerary changes yet, but they will be closely monitoring the storm and will make any adjustments necessary to keep ships safe. The cruise line will contact you if changes are necessary. On Monday morning, August 11, 2025, Tropical Storm Erin officially formed in the eastern Atlantic. The first official advisory for Tropical Storm Erin was issued by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) at 11 a.m. Eastern Time. While several days away, her path will likely bring the storm to the eastern Caribbean. This may impact a number of popular ports of call, as well as cruise ships with itineraries heading east over the next 7-10 days. At of 2pm CVT (Cape Verde Time), the storm had maximum sustained winds of 45 miles per hour and was moving west at 20 mph The minimum threshold for a tropical storm is 39 mph threshold, with a maximum of 73 mph before being classified as a hurricane. The westward track will bring Erin close to the top Eastern Caribbean ports on Friday and Saturday, August 15 and 16, before it is predicted she will turn north. Most models have her missing the Florida coast. (see graph below) Forecast predictions have the storm likely to be a major hurricane of Category 3 or higher by August 15-16. The ports likely to at least feel moderate impact include Barbados, St. Lucia, the US and British Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Depending on when and how Erin turns north, the Turks and Caicos as well as the Bahamas, including private islands, may also feel some impact. Ships departing on Eastern or Southern Caribbean itineraries this coming weekend are most likely to have at least some itinerary changes. Check your emails for any communication from the cruise line. There is no point in calling them - the call centers are not in direct communication with any ship. Shoreside will contact you if necessary. Remember, no cruise line has yet altered any sailings for Tropical Storm Erin. All cruise lines keep safety as their top priority and they will be monitoring the storm as she draws closer. How Strong Will Erin Become? The NHC’s forecast discussion advises caution this early, as it is always hard to predict how a tropical storm or hurricane will act several days in advance. “The intensity forecast in the short-term is a little tricky,” the NHC notes read. “The rate of intensification will likely increase in the second half of the forecast period.” Wind shear, ocean temperature, regional atmospheric conditions, and other factors all interact to determine how the storm may intensify and how she will move. Forecast tracks (the “spaghetti” plots) do show the storm likely to turn north long before impacting larger islands or the Florida eastern coastline, which includes Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral and Miami ports. That turn will not likely happen until the weekend, however, and could be significantly different than predicted so early in the storm’s formation. Though most believe she will remain no more than a Category 2 or 3 intensity, some forecast models show Erin reaching as high as a devastating Category 4 or 5 storm, Just as her path is difficult to predict precisely so many days away, her intensity can also vary tremendously as she gets closer. The overall size of Erin’s wind field will also determine how far away her impact may be felt. Very large storms can often impact ports of call or cruise homeports hundreds of miles from the storm’s eye, as the wind affects waves patterns and heights. The peak of hurricane season, when storms are strongest and most numerous, is typically around September 10. This does not mean that storms before or after this date are any less dangerous or disruptive. Any cruise guests with sailings booked over the next few days should watch Tropical Storm Erin carefully. Anyone with Caribbean sailings booked at this time of year should always stay informed about potential storms in case their cruise is impacted. For accurate and up-to-date information, follow Brian Shields...aka Mr. Weatherman on YouTube. He is a well-known and trusted Florida/Caribbean weatherman. To learn how hurricanes can affect your cruise and what to expect if they do, visit Hurricane Season and Your Cruise: What to Know. If you found the article informative and helpful, please comment below and follow Zest4Travel for cruise news and information. Let’s Connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise and travel even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies. It helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stayContinue reading "What to Know About Tropical Storm Erin and Your Cruise"
Plan Ahead: Celebrity Cruises 2027-2028 Deployment Schedule
Celebrity Cruises recently released the deployment schedule for sailings in 2027-2028. This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Celebrity Cruises Opening Deployment Schedule 2027-2028 Week of August 4, 2025: Canada/New England, Europe, Japan, Spring Transatlantics Week of September 8, 2025: Alaska and Hawaii Week of September 29. 2025: Australia November 2025: Caribbean, Fall Transatlantics December 2025: Winter Asia The first set of sailings to be released on August 5 are for cruises to Canada/England, Europe, Japan and spring Transatlantics. Canada, New England & Bermuda Celebrity Silhouette will sail from Boston, Cape Liberty and Reykjavik, Iceland. These sailings will offer seven- to 13-night cruises that includes stops in Iceland and Greenland. One itinerary will visit Bermuda, three to Iceland Greenland, and four to Maine and Canada. Europe Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Infinity and Celebrity Xcel will all offer cruises in Europe. Celebrity Ascent will homeport in Civitavecchia (Rome) and offer 10-14 night to Greece, Italy, Turkey and Malta. Sailing from Southampton, the Celebrity Apex will cruise on 7 to 14 night cruises to the Norwegian Fjords and Scandinavia. From Barcelona and Italy, Celebrity Constellation will offer cruises that visit Croatia, France, Italy and Spain. Celebrity Eclipse will sail from Amsterdam, Athens, and Ravenna, Italy on 7 to 13 night cruises to Europe. Homeporting in Barcelona, Celebrity Equinox will offer 9, 10, and 11 night cruises around the Mediterranean. Celebrity Infinity will sail from Athens, Greece and 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 night cruises to Greece and Croatia. And the newest vessel in the fleet, Celebrity Xcel will sail from Barcelona and Athens on a variety of sailings to the Italian and French Riviera. Asia Celebrity Millennium will sail from both Tokyo and South Korea offering 12 and 13 night cruises around Japan and South Korea. One 15 night sailing will visit Hong Kong and Vietnam before ending in Singapore. These newly announced itineraries from Celebrity Cruises will open for bookings on August 5, 2025. Call your travel agent or book directly with Celebrity early for the best availability. Remember, you can reprice your cruise if there are better promotions or pricing available prior to final payment, so don't miss out on your favorite cabin! Let’s Connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies. It helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stay in business. Thanks for your support!
Maximize Your Cruise Savings with Celebrity Cruises “Spend to Save Event”
Turn your vacation into another cruise during the Spend to Save Event. All eligible purchases before and during your qualifying cruise will earn a percentage back as a future cruise credit. *Available on select qualifying cruises only. This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. How It Works On the app, click on the person icon at the top, then your Captain's Club information. If your cruise qualifies, it will show up under Special Events. Make purchases in the following categories prior to and during the cruise to start earning. Shore and ship excursions Drinks and drink packages Specialty dining and packages Spa treatments and fitness services Photos Internet Premium Access packages Onboard shop purchases Laundry Gifts and Extras Cashing In Approximately 7 days after your cruise, Celebrity will send an email with your future cruise credit (FCC). Find your next sailing within 60 days of receiving your FCC (and sail within 12 months), apply your credit and book it. That's all you need to do! FAQ's What is the Spend to Save promotion? The Spend to Save Challenge is a promotion available on select qualifying sailings. Guests on qualifying sailings will be eligible to earn a percentage of their pre-cruise and onboard purchases back as a Future Cruise Credit. Which pre-cruise purchases are eligible towards a Future Cruise Credit? Purchases made through Cruise Planner including beverages, specialty dining, photo, spa and fitness services, shore excursions, internet, laundry, Premium Access Pass, Gifts & Extras, and paid onboard Which onboard purchases are eligible towards a Future Cruise Credit? Onboard purchases made with your Seapass card are eligible. Please see exclusions in #4 below. What purchases are excluded from the Spend to Save promotion? The following purchases are excluded: cruise fare, future cruise purchases, stateroom upgrades, travel protection, casino, taxes, gratuities, promotional and paid onboard credits (OBC), flights, hotels, and transfers. I booked All Included with my Celebrity Cruise; will drinks and wifi count toward my Future Cruise Credit? Yes. You will earn the promotional percentage back based on a per diem value of your All Included fare. I made pre-cruise purchases for my sailing prior to learning about this promotion; will those purchases be eligible? Yes, all eligible purchases made for the qualifying sailing will be eligible. Is there a minimum spend required to qualify for this offer? No, there is no minimum spending required. Is there a maximum amount that can be earned? No, there is no maximum amount that can be earned. How do I know if my sailing is part of the promotion? This promotion is only for select sailings. If your sailing is eligible, you will receive information in your stateroom upon embarkation, and promotional emails pre-cruise. You may also view the details about the Spend to Save promotion within the Celebrity Cruises App. I am sailing with others in my stateroom. Who will the Future Cruise Credit be issued to? The Future Cruise Credit for Cruise Planner purchases made before the cruise will be provided to the payer of guest account used to make eligible purchases. The Future Cruise Credit for onboard expenses will be issued to the Seapass card account payer to which qualifying purchases are charged during the qualifying sailing, including those purchases made by the account payer for other guests. How do I know if I am the Seapass account owner? Seapass account owners are guests who have elected to pay for their own onboard expenses; they may elect to pay for their party's expenses, as well. This selection is made during the online check in process and can be changed pre-cruise and during the check in process at the pier. What if I am in a stateroom with a friend or family member and we both have our own Seapass expense accounts? In this instance, each guest would receive a Future Cruise Credit for their individual onboard expenses. What happens if my cabin mate makes all the pre-cruise purchases but onboard the expense account is under my name? The guest who made the pre-cruise purchases will receive a Future Cruise Credit for those purchases, and the guest who owns the Seapass account will receive a separate Future Cruise Credit for the onboard purchases. Do I have to take any action to accept my Future Cruise Credit? No. The Future Cruise Credit will be emailed to you approximately 7 days after your completed sailing. I did not receive an email following my sailing. Who can I call to ensure I receive my future cruise credit? If you do not receive an email after your cruise, please check your Celebrity Cruises app. You can also call Celebrity Cruises at 844-418-6824. Celebrity will be able to validate your sailing and ensure you receive your Future Cruise Credit. My local currency is not in US dollars. How will my future cruise credit be issued to me? Your final future cruise credit will be issued in the local currency that you made your qualifying booking in. The exchange rate will be based on the sailing return date. Does my Future Cruise Credit have an expiration date? Yes, your future cruise credit must be redeemed within 60 days of issuance, and must be applied to a sailing departing within 12 months of the Future Cruise Credit issuance. Is my Future Cruise Credit applicable towards a future cruise I made onboard during my qualifying sailing? Yes, you can apply your Future Cruise credit toward an eligible booking you created with Future Cruise while onboard your qualifying sailing. Once you receive your Future Cruise Credit (approximately 7 days after returning home), you can apply your credit towards the booking you made onboard. How can I redeem my future cruise credit? Your Future Cruise Credit is redeemable online, through your travel partner or through our contact center team by calling us at 844-418-6824. I have an existing Future CruiseContinue reading "Maximize Your Cruise Savings with Celebrity Cruises “Spend to Save Event”"
Royal Caribbean Introduces a New Destination – Perfect Day Mexico
EDIT May 20, 2026: Royal Caribbean has confirmed that its private destination project near Mahahual, Mexico has been halted following a ruling by Mexico's Environmental Agency SEMARNAT (Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Humanos). The agency formally rejected the cruise line's plans, citing risks to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System and local coastal ecosystems. Press Release Reuters In October of 2024, Royal Caribbean announced it would be building another Perfect Day resort - a highly anticipated exclusive destination on Costa Maya, Mexico, This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. But there was a problem....the deal to purchase the Port of Mahahual and the surrounding land needed to be completed. Finally, the deal has closed after months of waiting – which means construction crews can start work!. Included in $292 million USD purchase is the cruise port and 34 of the surrounding properties. This will be turned into Perfect Day Mexico over the next two years and open in the fall of 2027. Local news outlet Riviera Maya News reported that the announcement of the deal’s closing was made on July 11, 2025, by Jay Schnaider, the Director of Product Innovation for Royal Caribbean. “We are now administrators of the port and have begun working on the development of Perfect Day Mahahual,” the company representative stated. This means that Royal Caribbean can officially assume operations because both the legal and the financial transaction has been completed. The Port of Costa Maya and the Port of Mahahual are basically the same place. Mahahual is the name of the small fishing village near the port, while Costa Maya (or Puerto Costa Maya) is the cruise port’s official name. It was confirmed that the cruise port, which receives hundreds of cruise ship calls every year, will remain open during construction. Costa Maya will also continue to accept other mainstream brands like Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and MSC Cruises that sail to the popular spot on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula after Perfect Day Mexico opens, But of course, only Royal Caribbean passengers (and guests of sister-brand Celebrity Cruises) will have access to Perfect Day Mexico. What to Expect at Perfect Day Mexico Perfect Day Mexico will span more than 200 acres on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, making it considerably larger than the original Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, which is 125 acres. Perfect Day Mexico will raise the bar on vacations with record-breaking experiences, industry firsts and twists on Royal Caribbean favorites when it all comes to life in Fall 2027. There will be something for adventurers of all ages across seven neighborhoods. The new resort will be big enough to accommodate approximately 20,000 guests daily. In comparison, CocoCay can handle around 13,000 guests per day Highlights include: Loco Waterpark – Thrill-seekers can conquer more than 30 adrenaline-pumping waterslides across five slide towers, including the tallest waterslide tower – and waterslides – across North and South America. The more than 170-foot-tall Jaguar’s Peak features two dueling slides, taking riders through more than two minutes of pure thrill and the longest coaster waterslide in the world. Vacationers can scale new heights across the tower’s 10 slides, and they can even do so together on the tallest family raft slide, designed for four to six riders at once. There are more thrills across the waterpark with hydrolaunch slides that shoot riders into the air and the world’s first sombrero slide, modeled after Mexico’s iconic sombrero. Plus, adventure pools, a wave pool and slides designed for younger kids ensure there’s something for everyone. Splash Cove – The central neighborhood for guests of all ages to go all-in will introduce the longest lazy river in the world – with a crazy side. Along the hour-long float are multiple entry and exit points and plenty of ways to stay hydrated with float-up bars and a cupholder in every tube. And for those who dare, an optional crazy section of the river features unexpected twists and turns with waves, rapids and spins. In the center of it all is a seemingly never-ending 100,000 square foot pool – just one of Perfect Day Mexico’s more than 10 expansive pools that together span the size of four football fields. The little ones have their own adventures at Royal Caribbean’s largest Splashaway Bay with waterslides sized just for them. The first-ever Splashaway Cabanas right nearby make it the perfect home base for families. El Hideaway – At this adults-only neighborhood, day pass holders 18 years and older can party all day long with a zero-entry pool, swim-up bar and in-pool DJ. Those looking to celebrate big can max out the party vibes at the new Ultimate Party Cabana for 20 guests, with its own pool and bar. For unmatched chill, El Hideaway sets the scene with live music, toes-in-the-sand bars and cabanas. Costa Beach Club – Guests looking to upgrade their beach day to the next level of exclusivity can enjoy the white sand beaches, heated infinity pool and premium dining of Costa Beach Club. And for the ultimate retreat, adventurers can spend the day in a private cabana with a personal cabana attendant, thoughtful amenities and a dedicated pool. Chill Beach North and South – Vacationers looking to kick back can enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico along nearly 2 miles of white sand beaches at Chill Beach, spanning north and south from the pier. Guests can enjoy complimentary loungers, umbrellas and towels at all beaches and pools at Perfect Day Mexico. Fiesta Plaza – Where all the festivities begin: a vibrant arrival area transports vacationers straight to the heart of Mexico with live music and dance. Plus, the world’s largest sombrero sits atop the Tipsy Sombrero bar, welcoming guests with margaritas, cervezas and more. Along with all the fun are 12 regionally inspired dining options, from sit-down spots to grab-and-go eateries, with nearly all food spots complimentary to guests. Plus, there are endless reasons to toast “¡Salud!” at 24 bars, including six swim-up bars. Mariachi performances, art installations, and local artisans for souvenir shopping further bring the Mexican culture to life. By 2027, 90% of Royal Caribbean's Caribbean vacationers will be able to experience a Perfect Day across Perfect Day at CocoCay and Perfect Day Mexico. Vacationers sailing fromContinue reading "Royal Caribbean Introduces a New Destination – Perfect Day Mexico"
Amazon Prime Days Deals
Don't miss out on these great deals for travel and cruising! Amazon Prime Days are October 7 & 8....don't miss out on these great discounts! This post contains affiliate links, if you click and buy a product, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Literine PocketPaks Cool Mint Breath Strips, Portable Pocket-Sized Oral Care Mouth Freshener 43% off BAGSMART Cord Organizer Travel Cable Bag, Compact Tech Electronic Organizer Travel Case, Essentials for Charger, Cable, Phone, Flash drive, Double Layers (Pink) 20% off Travel inspira Luggage Scale, Portable Digital Hanging Baggage Scale for Travel, Suitcase Weight Scale with Rubber Paint, 110 Pounds, Battery Included 40% off BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank 10,000mAh, Portable Wireless Charger, 20W Fast Charging External Battery Pack with USB C for Cell Phones 43% off EACHY Travel Makeup Bag,Large Capacity Cosmetic Bags for Women,Waterproof Portable Pouch Open Flat Toiletry Bag Make up Organizer with Divider and Handle 30% off Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder Supplement, Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides Travel Pack, 20 Individual Packets 20% off Coolife Luggage 4 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock 15% off Beats Studio Pro - Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones 51% off Large Travel Backpack Carry on Flight Approved Laptop Work Business Backpack 15% off Baggallini The New Classic Collection Uptown Bagg 44% off Multi Plug Outlet Splitter with USB, TESSAN 4 Electrical Outlet Extender Surge Protector with 3 USB Wall Charger Blocks 26% off Clear Makeup Bags, TSA Approved 6Pcs Cosmetic Makeup Bag Set Clear PVC with Zipper Handle Portable Travel Luggage Pouch Airport Airline Vacation. Other colors available. 20% off 10x25 Binoculars for Adults and Kids, Large View Compact Binoculars with Low Light Vision, Easy Focus Small Binocular 30% off 3 Packs Foldable Pail Bucket with Shovels & Mesh Bag, Collapsible Buckets Multi Purpose for Beach, Camping Gear, Beach Party, Fishing, and Fun Summer Activities (Yellow/Blue/Green) 33% off Magnetic Hooks for Cruise Cabins, 60Lbs Swivel Magnetic Hooks Heavy Duty, Cruise Ship Essentials 15% off Small Crossbody Bags for Women Belt Bag Fanny Pack with Adjustable Strap 40% off 16 Pack Silicone Bottle Cover,Travel Essential for Women Men,Cruise Ship Essentials 2025,Beach Vacation Essentials,Travel Size Toiletries,Airplane Travels Accessories Elastic Sleeves for Leak Proofing 33% off Waterproof Bag for Beach, Sandproof Fanny Packs for Women, Waterproof Pouch for Phone Passport Purse, Floating Dry Bags for Cruise Travel Water Park Boating Fishing Diving Surfing Kayaking Accessories 35% off 276PCS First Aid Kit Home Car Camping Hiking Emergency Supplies Small Compact Lovely Bag for School Outdoor, Basic Outdoor Essentials Survival Kit for Travel 20% off AI Neck Fan, 6 Speeds Adjustable Portable Personal Fan Rechargeable, 6000 mAh Battery Faster Cooling Wearable Fan, Ultra Quiet for Home, Office, Travel, Outdoor 38% off BAGAIL 4 Set/6 Set/8 Set Compression Packing Cubes Travel Accessories Expandable Packing Organizers (Half Mesh, 6-Black) Other colors available 32% off Repel Umbrella - Windproof Travel Umbrellas for Rain - Engineered to Withstand 85MPH Winds, <1lb - Lightweight, Durable, Compact, Waterproof, Auto Open Close, Fiberglass Frame Other colors available. 49% off 2 Pack Floating Waterproof Phone Pouch Up to 7", IPX8 Underwater Phone Case Dry Bag for iPhone 16 15 14 13 12 11 Pro Max Xs Max XR X 8 7 Plus SE/Galaxy S24 S23 S22 Other colors avaiable 20% off TESSAN European Travel Plug Adapter USB C 3 Pack, US to Europe Plug Adaptor with 4 AC Outlets 3 USB Charging Ports, Type C Power Adapter for USA to EU Euro Spain France Iceland Italy Germany Greece 20% off Cruise On Royal Caribbean Cruise Luggage Tag Holder (4 Pack) – Fits All Carnival & Royal Caribbean Ships, Durable Travel ID Holders for 2025-2026 Cruises, Clear Waterproof Cruise Essentials 35% off Click this link to find even more Travel Prime Day Deals! Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies, it helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stay in business. Thanks for your support!
Experience Paradise: Royal Caribbean’s Beach Club Opening Soon
Looking for something new to do in Nassau? Remember looking out to the ocean and seeing the island with deserted homes? Royal Caribbean recently purchased it and has turned it into an amazing Beach Club! Starting December 2025, you will be able to experience the new Royal Beach Club by RCL. Beach days will hit next level at the first of its kind Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, Nassau's newest beach club. Here, exclusive meets all-inclusive. From your first water transportation ride to your last drink at the swim up bar, each mouthwatering bite and everything in between, it's all complimentary with their Unlimited Open Bar Day Pass. Swim, sip, and unwind on the powdery white sands of Family Beach or Chill Beach. Be sure to indulge in irresistible island fare like Pinwheel Shrimp Skewers and Vanilla Bundt Cake with guava sauce, all while soak up sweeping Caribbean views from three pools, each with its own vibe. Or you can head to Party Cove for the world's largest swim-up bar fueled by dancing and nonstop beats. The ultimate beach day debuts in Nassau, The Bahamas December 2025. Cost: Day Pass (Unlimited Open Bar & Dining): Starting from $169.99 Day Pass (Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks & dining): $129.99 guests 13+, $109.99 guests 4-12 (ages 3 and under are free). All admissions include unlimited dining, unlimited beverages, free Wi-Fi, round-trip transportation and all general amenities. Want to bring the whole family with friends, try a cabana. Cabana rentals come in a few different sizes, with some of Royal Caribbean's biggest (and most expensive) cabana rentals ever. Ultimate Family Cabana: $9,999.99 Includes day passes for up to 12 people Royal Pool Cabana: $2,999.99 Includes day passes for up to 10 people Royal Beach Cabana: $2,999.99 Includes day passes for up to 10 people Beach Cabana: $2,199.99 Includes day passes for up to 8 people The Ultimate Family Cabana comes with a cabana attendant, welcome amenity, dining area, private bathroom, private shower, private changing room, wet bar, reserved beach space, heated whirlpool, spiral slide, wooden swing, cozy hammock, loungers, suspended net lounger, frozen drink machine, TV, Bluetooth connection, charging outlets, lockable storage, and mini fridge. Those looking to party all day might consider renting the party deck. Located on the second floor of The Floating Flamingo (the world’s largest swim-up bar), it includes dedicated food & beverage service, lounge seating, mini fridge, cooler table, charging station, beach towels, ceiling fan, shoe cubbies and lockable storage. For larger parties, you can reserve both east and west sides of the Party Deck. For parties larger than 12 guests, entry to The Party Deck for up to 6 additional guests can be purchased separately. Party Deck: $4,999.99 Includes day passes for up to 12 people Located at Party Cove, the Day Bed comes with day passes for up to 2 guests, complimentary dining, unlimited drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic), free Wi-Fi, roundtrip transportation, and all general amenities. Day Bed: $649.99 Includes day passes for up to 2 people Deluxe Beverage Package (Full Cruise) + Royal Beach Club Combo: $139.99 per adult, per day Refreshment Package (Full Cruise) + Royal Beach Club Combo: $84.99 per adult, per day / $69.99 per child, per day Deluxe Beverage Package (Full Cruise) + Thrill & Chill Combo: $159.99 per adult, per day Refreshment Package (Full Cruise) + Thrill & Chill Combo: $109.99 per adult, per day / $99.99 per child, per day Bundle pricing for Coco Key and The Beach Club Want to experience the best of fun in the sun at both the beach club and Perfect Day at CocoCay, there's a bundle option. The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island Refreshment Package + Thrill & Chill Combo includes: Royal Beach Club Day Pass Thrill Waterpark Day Pass Refreshment Package It's priced per day of the cruise, rather than a flat fee like the other options. Royal Caribbean says the price of the bundle at checkout is up to 45% less than those products added to cart individually. Ultimate Beach Day offering The concept is to offer the very best beach experience. Royal Caribbean has two goals: offer an unparalleled beach experience and give passengers a high quality shore excursion choice in Nassau. Located on 17 acres at the western end of Paradise Island in Nassau, there's a mix of party and family time. Regardless of which zone you end up spending most of your time, expect high energy throughout the club. Royal Caribbean did a lot of research from its customers, and they want a day with music, drinks, and a fun vibe. It's not meant to be a quiet spot, even if you're in Chill Beach. "It will be the most amazing beach day in essence," said Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's chief product innovation officer, earlier this year when he spoke about the plans they had to develop The Beach Club. "Chill is not quiet… It is relaxed, but there is a little bit of energy built into what our guests expect out of Chill," Schneider said. Family Beach is designed for what Royal Caribbean calls “relaxed energy” because it's a space where families can play, swim, and unwind together without sacrificing convenience or comfort. Family Beach 1 The Shallow End Pool & Swim Up Bar A zero-entry pool where you can walk right into the water and grab a drink or mocktail at the swim-upbar without leaving the water. 2 Beach Bars A great place to chill out with a refreshing beverage. 3 Paradise Grill Crush your tastebuds with delicious snacks and meals. 4 Ultimate Family Cabana* A one-of-a-kind private retreat with two stories of the best premium experiences. 5 Beach & Pool Cabanas* Get your own shaded retreat with personal attendant service and upgraded amenities. Party Cove 6 The Floating Flamingo and Swim Up Bar Sip through the day at the world's largest swim-up bar - a two-story watering hole fueled by DJ beats and incredible views. 7 Bars Relax with a refreshing beverage 8 Paradise Grill Crush yourContinue reading "Experience Paradise: Royal Caribbean’s Beach Club Opening Soon"
How to Travel from Schiphol to Amsterdam Easily by Train
Flying to Schiphol and want to get into the city quickly? Whether you have gotten off the plane or the train, you can be in the centre of Amsterdam in under 20 minutes. Trains leaves from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central from platform 3 every 7 minutes! The train ticket doesn’t cost much and it’s faster than traveling by taxi. Super convenient! This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Traveling by public transport to/from the airport is a smart choice: it saves costs, is environmentally friendly, and offers convenience and comfort. In addition, from a safety perspective, it is wise to choose public transport, especially if you are tired after a long flight. Where can I find the train to Amsterdam? Schiphol Airport station is just below the airport. From the arrivals hall, follow the 'Trains' signs to Schiphol Plaza, where you take the escalator or elevator down to the platforms. Go to platform 3 for the sprinter train to Amsterdam. You never have to wait long....the train leaves for Amsterdam Central eight times an hour, seven days a week! There are slightly fewer trains after 11:00pm. Get from Schiphol to Amsterdam under 20 minutes The train is your smartest and fastest choice. You can get from the airport to the center of Amsterdam in under 20 minutes. Amsterdam Central station is located at the heart of the city, close to the famous Dam Square and Kalverstraat. The airport sprinter runs between Amsterdam CS, Sloterdijk, Lelylaan, Schiphol Airport and Hoofddorp, and is usually faster (and cheaper) than taxis or cars. If you want to visit Amsterdam, buy an Amsterdam Travel Ticket. It allows you to make unlimited use of the train and bus to and from Schiphol, and all trams, metros and buses in the city centre for up to 24 hours. Where can you buy a train ticket? There are ticket machines close to platform 1 and Starbucks. You can also pay with your bank card, credit card or mobile phone by checking in at the public transport check-in points. At Schiphol these can be found at the top of the stairs/escalators to the platform and near the lift at Schiphol Plaza. A train ticket to Amsterdam Central is not expensive, approximately 5.20€ one way at the time of writing. If you use your bank card or mobile phone, don't forget to check out once you are in Amsterdam. Are you boarding a ship at the Passenger Terminal? You are an easy 20 minute walk away or 4 minute taxi ride away. You can buy a ticket for public transport at the airport from the blue/gray Public Transport Tickets machines. These are located at the baggage belts of Arrivals 1, 2 and 3 and at Schiphol Plaza. You can buy a ticket for a single trip or various 1, 2 or 3-day travel tickets. Is the train accessible? The airport sprinter between Schiphol and Amsterdam has a level entrance. You can easily get on and off the train, even if you are less mobile or have a lot of baggage with you. No big steps to get onto the train! You also don't have to worry about waiting long – the train leaves every eight minutes. Final Thoughts Public transportation in Amsterdam is quick and easy to use. Enjoy your visit! Wondering how to best pack your carry-on bag? You might find these packing tips helpful. Essential Travel Items for Your Carry-On Bag Do you have travel insurance for your next cruise? The best day to buy it is the day you book so get it now. Insubuy has policies for all travelers. Have you booked your excursions yet? Check out my recommended provider. Stay up-to-date on all the Cruise News: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise and travel even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies. It helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stay in business. Thanks for your support!
Discover the Redesigned Celebrity Solstice for 2026 – Update with Progress Photos!!
Explore the full Celebrity Solstice refurbishment 2026, including new dining, entertainment, outdoor spaces, and upgraded staterooms debuting in March 2026.
Update on Celebrity River Cruises
Celebrity Cruises’ President Laura Hodges Bethge revealed that the cruise line’s first river itineraries in 2027 will take place on the Rhine and Danube rivers. The announcement was made during Celebrity’s 2025 president’s cruise aboard the Celebrity Apex during the President’s Cruise. Hodges Bethge held a presentation and Q+A session with other members of the cruise line’s executive ream. The executive explained that the Rhine and Danube rivers were at the top of the wishlist for Celebrity cruisers. “The are the two biggest rivers and it’s where we hear you all want to go,” explained Laura “We’ve also announced that we will be on all of the big European rivers, so over time we will get to all of them.” According to information made available when Celebrity originally announced its plans to launch a river product., the cruise line will launch with two ships in 2027; four in 2028; and four more in 2029. During the presentation, images of destinations like Amsterdam, Cologne, Budapest, Vienna and Paris were shown, with the later city hinting that the cruise line may introduce Seine itineraries in the near future. Hodges Bethge also spoke briefly about the offerings on board the new river itineraries, revealing that Celebrity will most likely offer an all-inclusive product. “I reserve the right to change or tweak that just a little bit because we’re still fine-tuning the details,” said Celebrity’s president. “That said, the intention is that our river cruises will be all inclusive – drinks, wifi and one shore excursion per port. And then there’d be opportunities if you wanted to upgrade those things” Please join other cruisers at A Celebrity River Cruises Forum on Facebook. Updates will be shared there when available. BE SHARE THIS EXCITING NEW WAY TO RIVER WITH YOUR FRIENDS Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies, it helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stay in business. Thanks for your support!
Prepare for REAL ID Requirements: Your Travel Checklist
Starting May 7, 2025, state-issued driver’s licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports for domestic travel. Passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, like a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices. Travelers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance, may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening. This includes TSA PreCheck passengers. Acceptable ID The list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. TSA strongly encourages you check this list again before traveling, so you do not arrive at the airport without acceptable ID. REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles. A temporary driver’s license is not an acceptable form of identification. State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID) U.S. passport U.S. passport card DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST) U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents Permanent resident card Border crossing card An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs) HSPD-12 PIV card Foreign government-issued passport Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766) U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) Don’t have your acceptable ID? The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where you may be subject to additional screening. You will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you choose to not provide acceptable identification, you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed. Expired ID TSA currently accepts expired ID up to two years after expiration, for the above listed forms of identification. Children TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18. Names with suffixes TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and ID. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes. If there is a suffix on the boarding pass, and there is not one on the ID or vice versa, that is considered an acceptable variation. What to do if you don’t have a REAL ID? Don’t panic. The good news is there’s about a two-year “wiggle room period” that gives airports discretion, on a case-by-case basis, to subject travelers to additional screening instead of requiring a REAL ID. You could still be turned away, but systems are expected to allow passage with extra screening. Expect delays if you don’t have the proper form of identification. Do I need real ID for my cruise? For cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port, you don’t need a REAL ID to board the ship. You can use either a passport, a birth certificate accompanied by a state-issued photo ID, or a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license. However, if your cruise requires you to fly to the cruise port, you will need REAL ID or an accepted form of documentation. Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies, it helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stay in business. Thanks for your support!