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Cruise News Update: Cancellations, Technical Glitches, and Exciting New Ship Launches

Recent developments in the cruise industry have prompted important changes and updates to various cruise lines’ itineraries, technical issues, and new ship launches.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Homeport Swap

Norwegian Cruise Line recently announced the cancellation of over 40 voyages for the Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Prima during the winter 2026-27 season. The cruise line clarified that it has swapped the homeports of both ships. The Norwegian Breakaway will now sail from New Orleans instead of San Juan, Puerto Rico, while Norwegian Prima will make the reverse switch. Guests with original bookings will receive automatic refunds and a 10% future cruise credit, which they can use to rebook on the newly assigned ships.

Cancellations on Carnival Breeze

A revised dry dock schedule has led to the cancellation of five upcoming voyages on Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Breeze. All affected cruises, scheduled for early 2027, will no longer operate due to routine maintenance that requires more time and work than initially anticipated. Guests can expect full refunds on cruise fares and purchased packages, along with onboard credit incentives if they choose to rebook.

Celebrity Cruises’ New Ship Features

Celebrity Cruises has provided exciting details about its upcoming Celebrity Xcel, debuting in November 2025. New onboard attractions include the Celebrity Pool Club, enhanced spa facilities, and a flagship store for branded merchandise. This ship, capable of accommodating 3,260 guests, is being built in France and will operate from Fort Lauderdale after its launch.

Technical Issues on Celebrity Infinity

Celebrity Infinity has successfully departed from Kusadasi, Turkey, after experiencing a minor electrical fire in its engine room on July 7. The vessel had to remain docked longer than planned, leading to the cancellation of several scheduled port calls. Passengers chose to remain onboard or explore the local area during the delay. The ship is now on course to Piraeus, Greece.

Royal Caribbean Updates

Royal Caribbean took delivery of its newest Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas, from Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. This delivery means preparations are underway for its maiden voyage scheduled for August 31, 2025. Meanwhile, Serenade of the Seas faced technical issues that forced a change in its itinerary; it had to return to port shortly after departing due to further maintenance needs.

Conclusion

As the cruise industry navigates these developments, it is crucial for travelers to stay informed about itinerary adjustments, cruise line cancellations, and the launch of new vessels. Regular updates help guests adjust their plans and ensure a smooth cruise experience.

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