Grab Your Bags Travel

What's something you didn't know about cruising when you took your first cruise that you wish someone had told you?

1 day ago | [YT] | 1

Grab Your Bags Travel

Cruise Gratuities: What do you think?
I covered the latest gratuity increase in this week's Wake Report. Now I want your opinion! I'll share some of your thoughts in next week's episode. https://youtu.be/ELvfb07XKwM

1 week ago | [YT] | 2

Grab Your Bags Travel

Since I am traveling this week, The Wake Report is looking a bit different. Here are some news stories that affect cruisers.

1. Barcelona Proposes Major Cruise Tax Increase
Barcelona is moving forward with plans to significantly increase its cruise passenger tax, with fees potentially rising to €30.34 (about $35 USD) per passenger. City officials say the increase is intended to help offset the impact of overtourism and fund local infrastructure. If approved, the higher tax could make Barcelona one of the most expensive cruise ports in Europe and may eventually influence cruise fares or itinerary planning for ships visiting the popular Mediterranean destination.


2. Norwegian Gem & Norwegian Jade Receive Major Upgrades
Norwegian Cruise Line has completed extensive renovations to Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Jade, bringing several modern enhancements to the nearly 20-year-old ships. Highlights include the addition of the adults-only Vibe Beach Club, expanded thermal suites in the Mandara Spa, refreshed public spaces, and updated accommodations. The upgrades are part of NCL's ongoing effort to modernize its classic fleet while keeping these fan-favorite ships competitive with newer vessels.


3. Disney Cruise Line Makes History with First Female Captain of Disney Wish
Disney Cruise Line has appointed Captain Minnie Bodhanwala as the first woman to command the Disney Wish, marking a historic milestone for the company. Captain Bodhanwala, who has spent decades at sea and previously captained the Disney Magic, now takes the helm of Disney's flagship vessel. Her promotion represents another step forward for diversity in the maritime industry and serves as an inspiring achievement for aspiring female officers worldwide.


4. Low Water Levels Disrupt Danube River Cruises
Unusually low water levels on the Danube River are once again disrupting river cruise operations across parts of Europe. Several cruise lines have been forced to modify itineraries by swapping ships, transporting guests by bus between ports, or canceling sailings altogether where navigation is no longer possible. The recurring issue, driven by prolonged dry conditions and extreme weather, highlights the growing challenges climate-related events pose for Europe's popular river cruise industry. Travelers with upcoming Danube cruises are encouraged to monitor updates from their cruise line, as itinerary changes may continue until water levels improve.


Be sure to check out my new video this week where I share a story from a colleague's client. A snowball effect of problems which caused a missed cruise but an eventual happy ending.
Watch Here: https://youtu.be/BkHUV_GLn_w?si=IQooH...

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 0

Grab Your Bags Travel

What is your countdown?

1 month ago | [YT] | 1

Grab Your Bags Travel

Happy Father's Day!

1 month ago | [YT] | 1

Grab Your Bags Travel

Anyone else?

2 months ago | [YT] | 0

Grab Your Bags Travel

Here are some cruise news from The Wake Report

🛳️ Guests who sailed with Carnival Cruise Line are now reportedly receiving notifications tied to a recent data breach involving personal information. According to reports, impacted guests may have had sensitive data exposed, prompting concerns about cybersecurity and identity protection. Carnival says it is continuing to investigate the situation while notifying affected customers and offering guidance on monitoring their accounts.


🛳️ Royal Caribbean International has enhanced its travel protection plan, adding more flexibility and benefits for cruisers. The updated coverage now includes expanded cancellation protections and improved reimbursement options, making the plan more appealing for travelers concerned about unexpected disruptions. The move comes as more cruise passengers look for added peace of mind when booking vacations.


🛳️ Disney Cruise Line is tightening up onboard policies with updated rules covering alcohol limits, cabin decorations, and prohibited items. Under the new guidelines, guests are now limited to bringing one bottle of wine or six beers per person at embarkation, while decorations such as banners and magnets must not damage cabin surfaces or block doors and safety signage. The cruise line has also expanded its list of prohibited items, including certain heating appliances and extension cords, in an effort to improve safety and maintain a family-friendly environment across the fleet. Guests are being encouraged to review the revised guidelines before sailing to avoid issues during embarkation.


🛳️ Protests in Costa Maya, Mexico recently disrupted shore excursions for guests sailing with Royal Caribbean International, forcing some tours to be canceled as demonstrators blocked access routes near the port. The unrest appears connected to growing tensions over tourism development in the region and follows backlash surrounding Royal Caribbean’s previously canceled plans for a private beach club Perfect Day at Mexico. Protesters say they haven't been paid by Royal Caribbean. Local residents and business owners have raised concerns about how large cruise developments could impact public beach access and the local economy, creating ongoing friction between tourism expansion and community interests.


🛳️ The battle against “chair hogs” is heating up across the cruise industry, with Norwegian Cruise Line reportedly stepping up enforcement by marking unattended pool chairs and removing belongings after extended periods of inactivity. The crackdown has sparked major debate online, with many cruisers applauding the move while others argue guests’ personal items shouldn’t be touched. The issue continues to be one of the most controversial onboard etiquette battles in cruising.


Personally I think a one hour hold to grab lunch in the buffet or maybe run back to the cabin for something is fair. What do you think?
#cruisenews #CruisePlanning

2 months ago | [YT] | 1

Grab Your Bags Travel

What ship am I on today?!

2 months ago | [YT] | 1

Grab Your Bags Travel

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2 months ago | [YT] | 0

Grab Your Bags Travel

I have your weekly cruise news for you with Royal Caribbean being in the headlines a lot this week!

🛳️ Royal Caribbean’s plans for its highly anticipated Perfect Day Mexico project have hit a major setback after Mexican environmental officials reportedly rejected key permits tied to the development. Concerns were raised about the project’s environmental impact, particularly on local ecosystems and coastal areas. While Royal Caribbean says it is still committed to bringing the destination to life, the decision could delay construction timelines and adds uncertainty to what was expected to become one of the cruise line’s biggest private destination expansions. It was set to open in 2027


🛳️ Royal Caribbean has extended its suspension of visits to Labadee, Haiti through the end of 2026 due to ongoing safety and security concerns in the region. The cruise line says guest and crew safety remains its top priority as Haiti continues to face severe political unrest and gang violence, with the U.S. State Department still maintaining a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory. Affected itineraries are being adjusted with alternate ports and sea days while passengers wait to see when the private destination may safely reopen.

Who thinks they should continue to even have this destination in their itinerary?


🛳️ Passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas voiced frustration after the ship unexpectedly canceled its scenic visit to Alaska’s Hubbard Glacier, one of the highlights of the itinerary. Guests reportedly gathered at Guest Services chanting “We Want Hubbard” after learning the stop was removed due to operational changes tied to ongoing delays at Seward’s cruise terminal and the ship’s rerouting to Whittier. While Royal Caribbean automatically issued onboard credits as compensation, many passengers felt the missed glacier experience — often a major reason travelers book Alaska cruises — was not adequately replaced.


🛳️ And speaking on Alaska -
Virgin Voyages is taking a different approach to Alaska cruising with the debut of Brilliant Lady by focusing less on traditional cruise entertainment and more on immersive destination experiences. Instead of treating Alaska as just another itinerary, Virgin is adding onboard naturalists, Alaska Native cultural programming, wildlife talks, regional food and cocktail experiences, and even storytelling performances tied to local history. The adults-only cruise line is also partnering with sustainable tour operators and emphasizing authentic connections to Alaska’s culture, nature, and wildlife — creating a more modern, experience-driven take on Alaska cruising.
Frankly- from my experience, Princess already offers these things on their Alaska cruises but I am intrigued on how Virgin has put their own spin and branding to it.
Would you consider giving Virgin a chance in Alaska?


#cruisenews #cruisenewsupdate #Cruise #CruiseVacation #thewakereport

2 months ago | [YT] | 1