Los Angeles is ready to welcome a new era of cruise travel with a brand-new terminal project. 

(Credit: Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC)

On January 22, 2025, the Port of Los Angeles announced that Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC (PCT) was selected as the developer and operator of the new Outer Harbor cruise terminal. The project was initially announced in 2024. 

PCT, a joint venture between Carrix, Inc. and JLC Infrastructure, will also redevelop and operate the existing World Cruise Center on the Port's Main Channel. 

The Outer Harbor cruise terminal will be able to handle the newest and most environmentally sustainable cruise ships in California. It will also offer open spaces, recreational facilities, and enhanced access to the LA Waterfront for residents and tourists. 

(Credit: Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC)

"This new Outer Harbor cruise terminal and World Cruise Center redevelopment will allow us to capture more of the rapidly growing cruise business, while also establishing Los Angeles as the primary West Coast gateway for cruise operations," said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. 

"This project will also be a huge win for our Port communities, who will greatly benefit from the economic activity generated by such significant public and private investment in our LA Waterfront."

At the time of publication, PCT hasn't released an estimated timeline for when the terminal will be operational and open to cruise passengers. However, it's sure to boost Los Angeles’ position as a leading cruise destination for West Coast vacations. 

Read more: I flew across the country for a 3-day cruise. I maximized the trip by making a few smart decisions

Booming cruise passenger numbers drive LA's expansion

In 2025, the Port of Los Angeles welcomed over 240 cruise calls and a record-breaking 1.6 million passengers, up from 183 calls and 1.1 million passengers in 2024, according to the Port’s website. 

Last year, Royal Caribbean made the strategic decision to deploy Ovation of the Seas to California. As such, the Quantum Class ship became the largest cruise vessel to ever dock at the World Cruise Center. 

Moreover, Carnival Cruise Line announced plans to construct a new $26-million shoreside destination in Ensenada, Mexico, a popular cruise port on sailings from Los Angeles. 

Both these moves highlight a growing demand for bigger and more modern cruise ships in the region. 

Each cruise ship visit generates roughly $1.3 million in local economic activity, supporting thousands of jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors, along with crucial port operations. 

Carrix is the parent company of SSA Marine

SSA Marine recently announced it is pushing to build a new multi-berth cruise port in Manatee County, Florida. 

According to the proposal, the terminal would be built on a roughly 328-acre coastal property known as the Knott‑Cowen tract at the mouth of Tampa Bay. 

As such, situating the terminal beyond the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge would finally open Tampa to larger cruise ships. 

Currently, only smaller vessels, such as Royal Caribbean's Vision Class ships, can operate from Tampa due to the bridge's height restrictions. 

Although the new port project is in the early planning phase and has not been officially approved, initial work to identify and evaluate potential environmental, traffic, noise, and public access considerations has already begun.

Pending approval, construction of Tampa's newest cruise terminal would take three to five years.

Like the Port of Los Angeles, the Port of Tampa Bay had record-breaking numbers in 2025. The Western Florida cruise port welcomed over 1.6 million cruise passengers last year, along with over 262,000 shipping containers, as reported by Spectrum Bay News 9. 

Read more: A new proposal could solve the Tampa cruise problem that limits ship size

Royal Caribbean is ending one of its cruises early to avoid winter storm Fern.

Passengers on Harmony of the Seas were informed on Thursday that their sailing will be cut by a day because of the storm. The Oasis Class ship was supposed to call at Cozumel, Mexico, on Friday, January 22. However, the final port visit of the 7-night Western Caribbean cruise was canceled at the last minute. 

Now, the 226,963 gross-ton vessel will spend Friday at sea en route to Galveston, with plans to arrive in Texas around 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23. 

"We are tracking the development of a major winter storm expected to impact Southeast Texas beginning late Saturday. In order to give you the best chance at a safe and uninterrupted journey home by avoiding the winter weather impacts to local infrastructure and transportation, we have decided to arrive in Galveston one (1) day earlier than originally scheduled," read a letter delivered to current passengers. 

(Credit: OldPostageScale/X)

Guests do not have to disembark on Saturday. If they wish to remain on board until Sunday, they may do so. 

However, remaining passengers must inform their cabin attendant or Guest Services by 12:00 p.m. on Friday. Unfortunately, the stores and casino will be closed in Texas, though. 

"Due to Customs and Border Protection requirements, all guests extending their stay will be asked to debark the ship with their travel documents in hand and reboard once the ship has been fully debarked. Luggage can stay onboard, no need to bring it shoreside with you," the letter continued.

(Screenshot taken at 9:50 a.m. EST. Credit: Cruise Mapper) 

Cruise Mapper shows that as of Friday at 9:50 a.m. EST, Harmony of the Seas had already cleared the Yucatán Peninsula and was sailing north through the Gulf of Mexico toward Texas.

Harmony departed from Galveston on Sunday, Jan. 18. There were no impacts to the first part of the itinerary, with the ship calling at its scheduled ports of Roatán, Honduras, and Costa Maya, Mexico, before the sailing was adjusted.

Compensation for the early return

All passengers will receive a one-day refund of the paid cruise fare as an onboard credit. 

Additionally, all pre-paid Royal Caribbean shore excursions for Cozumel, Mexico, were automatically canceled and refunded as onboard credit to guests' SeaPass accounts. 

According to the letter, onboard credits can be used anywhere on the ship, and any remaining amounts will be refunded to the card on file at the end of the sailing. 

Thankfully, there's no impact on the Crown & Anchor loyalty benefits that guests will earn for the weeklong cruise. 

"You'll receive loyalty points for the original sail nights, instead of the nights sailed. For this sailing, you'll still receive 7 nights worth of loyalty points," the letter concluded. 

Winter Storm Fern has placed more than 200 million Americans under weather advisories

The potentially historic winter storm is expected to bring snow, high winds, and freezing temperatures to 230 million people in more than 30 states across the U.S., from Arizona to Texas, North Carolina, and Massachusetts. 

Local officials have told residents to prepare for widespread power outages, travel disruptions, and school closures. 

Airlines are also bracing for significant flight delays and cancellations, with more than 1,000 flights already canceled on Saturday, CNBC reported. 

As such, carriers have waived change and cancellation fees, as well as fare differences, for major airports across the country. Even restrictive basic economy fares can be changed without penalty. 

Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas was forced to skip a scheduled stop in Costa Maya because of reported damage to the cruise pier. 

Grandeur was expected to arrive in Costa Maya, Mexico, around 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 22. However, passengers were informed ahead of time that the visit would have to be canceled. 

"Grandeur of the Seas port stop at Costa Maya cancelled...due to damaged pier from today," shared Md Tag Service Agent on X. 

A letter was later delivered to impacted passengers explaining the last-minute change and shore excursion refund options.

"We hope you're enjoying your time onboard the beautiful Grandeur of the Seas! As we continue our voyage, we wanted to inform you about a change to our itinerary," the letter begins.

"Due to damage at the pier in Costa Maya, Mexico, we'll have to skip our visit and enjoy a [sea day] instead. We're terribly sorry for the last-minute change...We thank you for your understanding and look forward to the remainder of our time together!"

All pre-paid shore excursions booked through Royal Caribbean will be automatically canceled and refunded to guests' SeaPass accounts as onboard credit. Any remaining credits at the end of the cruise will be refunded to the card on file.

(Screenshot taken at 9:04 a.m. EST on Jan. 22. Credit: Cruise Mapper)

Cruise Mapper confirms that Grandeur was unable to arrive as scheduled. Instead of showing the Vision Class ship in Mexico, the popular tracking website shows the vessel sailing north along the Yucatán Peninsula.

Although Grandeur wasn't able to safely dock in Costa Maya, three other cruise ships — including Harmony of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas, and TUI's Mein Schiff 1 — were still able to call at the port on Jan. 22. 

This seems to indicate that the damage was limited to a single cruise pier area in Costa Maya. At the time of publication, it's unclear how long repairs might take or whether future Royal Caribbean sailings could be affected by the damage. 

Grandeur of the Seas is currently sailing a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise from Tampa, Florida. 

The Vision Class ship departed on Jan. 17 and called at Cozumel, Mexico; Roatán, Honduras; and Belize City, Belize, earlier this week. She's expected to arrive back in Florida as scheduled on Jan. 24. 

Norwegian Encore is also skipping Costa Maya

Norwegian Encore, a Breakaway Plus Class ship, won't be calling at Costa Maya as planned, either. In a letter delivered to guests shared in a public Facebook group, passengers were told they couldn't dock at Costa Maya because of circumstances "beyond [their] control." 

However, this last-minute change is allowing passengers to make history as the first overnight cruisers to visit Great Stirrup Cay.

"[W]e're thrilled to announce an extraordinary, first-of-its-kind experience, an overnight stay at our private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. This will mark the first overnight visit offered to Norwegian Cruise Line guests," the letter says. 

(Credit: Laura Clingo/Facebook)

"This moment gives you the opportunity to be among the first guests to experience Great Stirrup Cay after dark, truly making cruise history...As the sun sets, the energy shifts to an unforgettable evening celebration, with all nighttime activities focused on the vibrant Great Life Lagoon, the all-new pool area."

Guests can freely roam the island until midnight, but they won't want to miss the Glow Party under the stars from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The next day, passengers will have until 5:00 p.m. to enjoy the island’s beaches, pool, and other amenities. 

Read more: Cruise line spends $150 million to make its private island even better

Grandeur of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's oldest cruise ship 

Grandeur of the Seas entered service in December 1996. Not only is she currently the oldest operating ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet, but she is also the smallest. 

Grandeur measures just 73,817 gross tons with a passenger capacity of 1,992 at double occupancy. Comparatively, Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship, comes in at 248,663 gross tons and can carry 5,610 guests at double occupancy. 

Grandeur of the Seas will offer Caribbean cruises from Tampa, Florida, through May 2026. Afterward, she'll move to Central and South America and embark on a series of Southern Caribbean cruises from Colón and Cartagena. 

Then, beginning in April 2027, Grandeur will sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a few months before moving back to Central and South America in December. 

You don’t need to be part of a large group to enjoy a cruise. In fact, cruising can be a safe and enjoyable way to travel solo. However, if you’re an extrovert, you might be wondering what opportunities you'll have to meet other travelers while on board. 

I've taken multiple solo cruises — from a short Bahamian getaway to a weeklong voyage to Alaska — and while I prefer traveling with my loved ones, I can attest that cruising alone gives you the chance to meet new people and form friendships that you might not otherwise encounter in your daily life. 

Making friends on a cruise is easier than you think. However, you must be willing to put in the effort, whether that means attending an event you'd typically avoid or striking up a conversation with a stranger at the bar. 

Here are 8 ways to embrace your social butterfly and meet people on a cruise ship. 

Join your sailing's Facebook group

Most cruises have an unofficial Facebook group started by other guests, giving you a dedicated space to ask questions about the itinerary, ship, or even arrange activities like bar crawls or slot pulls. 

These groups are a great way to break the ice and begin connecting with fellow guests before your sailing. While onboard, many passengers will continue to utilize the group to coordinate meet-ups, inquire about events, and share tips and experiences. 

To find your group, all you have to do is search your ship name and sailing date. Here are a few examples:

• Utopia of the Seas May 4-8, 2026
• Ovation of the Seas July 17-24, 2026
• Star of the Seas Aug. 2-9, 2026

Request to sit at a large table during dinner

The Main Dining Room has tables for two, which are ideal for solo travelers who prefer to dine alone. However, there are also larger tables that can accommodate 6, 8, or even 10 passengers. 

If you’d like to sit at a shared table, visit the maître d' on embarkation day. While shared tables aren’t guaranteed, you can make your request, and the crew will do their best to seat you with other passengers. 

Another option for those who want more flexibility is My Time Dining. If you meet guests you’d like to dine with during your cruise, you can request the next available table during the dining room’s operating hours.

Book a specialty restaurant with a shared table

Two specialty restaurants — the Chef's Table and Izumi Hibachi — have shared tables that encourage conversation among guests. While the meals aren't included in your cruise fare, they could be worth the extra charge if you want a more interactive and social dining experience. 

Even if you don't walk away with a new lifelong friend, the culinary experience is leagues above the standard fare in the dining room. At Izumi, for example, you can enjoy a lively Teppanyaki meal, complete with fried rice and your choice of protein prepared right in front of you!

The Chef's Table is the ultimate food experience on any Royal Caribbean ship. The six-course meal includes a wine pairing that's carefully selected to complement the savory appetizers, flaky fish, and decadent dessert. 

Read more: Guide to Izumi Sushi and Hibachi restaurant

Visit Adventure Ocean

If you aren't sailing alone but are worried about your children getting bored or feeling "stuck" with mom and dad, encourage them to visit Adventure Ocean, Royal Caribbean's award-winning youth program. 

The age-specific activities are supervised by trained staff, so you can have peace of mind while enjoying some much-needed adult-only time. 

After "graduating" from Adventure Ocean, pre-teens and teens can enjoy dedicated spaces just for them, including Social020, Social100, and the Living Room. 

Finally, young adults shouldn't overlook the Hyperlink events, which target guests between the ages of 18 and 25. Activities range from trivia to "frat" games and nightclub meet-ups. 

If they don't make a friend on the first visit, there are plenty of opportunities to try again. Just like in school, it is nearly impossible to make a solid connection in homeroom. 

Start a conversation at the bar

People (myself included) tend to get chattier after a drink or two. While I might find myself feeling reserved, I'll typically begin warming up to new people halfway through a drink. 

Royal Caribbean ships have the perfect bar for everyone, whether you like singing along to tunes at the pub or relaxing with a glass of wine at Vintages. 

Starting a conversation can be as easy as asking someone what drink they ordered or bonding over a favorite song. 

Join a trivia team

Trivia is a popular cruise ship activity and is offered multiple times throughout any sailing. Themes range from music to Harry Potter, geography, logos, and general knowledge. 

Royal Caribbean’s activities team allows players to form teams, which is a great way to bridge gaps in knowledge among team members.

If you show up alone, try seeking out a smaller team to join. Even if you aren't confident in your knowledge, trivia competitions are an easy way to break the ice and introduce yourself to others. 

Hang out in the Suite or Crown Lounge

Talking to cruisers in the Crown Lounge is a great way to meet like-minded travelers who also enjoy cruising. It's easy to strike up a conversation about your favorite ship, destination, or Cruise Director! 

The more you visit, the more chances you’ll have to mingle with others. Consider stopping by in the morning to use the upgraded coffee machine, as well as at night for a cocktail before dinner. 

The Suite Lounge has a similar vibe, though it's accessible by all guests staying in a suite, not just dedicated loyalty members with at least 80 cruise points. 

Read more: Inside Royal Caribbean's Crown Lounge: Perks, Access & What to Expect

Speak up during excursions 

While there are plenty of chances to meet new guests on the ship, it's just as easy to connect with fellow passengers on shore excursions. 

Since you'll be together for a few hours, whether on a bus during a panoramic sightseeing tour or on a boat for an afternoon snorkeling excursion, you have ample time to strike up a conversation about a shared experience. Perhaps you saw a sea turtle grazing on the ocean floor or enjoyed marveling at a historic landmark in Rome. 

During a snorkeling tour in St. Thomas, my partner and I happened to sit next to two couples who had either resided or were currently living in North Carolina, just like we do! 

The Main Dining Room is a staple experience on Royal Caribbean cruises. However, many passengers may opt to skip the dining room in favor of specialty restaurants or a quicker, casual meal at the buffet, leaving them wondering if they should tell their waitstaff that they won't be there for dinner. 

The question was recently asked in a Royal Caribbean dining Facebook group, where a cruiser debated whether they should let their waiter know about the nights they plan on dining elsewhere. 

"We have reserved specialty dining on days 3, 4, [and] 5 of our upcoming 8-day trip. Should we let the [Main Dining Room] know that we won’t be there for those dinners but WILL be back for days 6 & 7?" they asked. 

While you aren't required to let your waiter know, many cruisers consider it common courtesy. 

If you choose traditional dining (i.e., the early or late seating) and know you’ll be missing a night (or two), it's polite to let them know. 

That way, they won't be waiting on you and can better manage their table assignments and service flow for the dinner seating. It also helps them know if the table will be used for My Time Dining guests. 

The responses were largely in agreement, stating that it's polite to let your waitstaff know when you won't be there. 

"We always let our waiters know when we will not be there," said one user. 

Another added, "Assuming you have the traditional, set dining time, common courtesy would be to let your waiter know you won't be there on those nights so the waiter and your fellow table mates are not waiting on you before starting their meal."

"[T]hey will tell you it's not necessary, but it is common courtesy to let them know," someone else agreed. 

One cruiser wrote, "It's simple courtesy to let them know the evening before as often the waiters will have prepared for you to show up. Our waiters frequently have our preferred beverage ready and even the cheese plate that we usually order to share at the table."

If you have My Time Dining, your server may ask you to request them the next night. If you have no intention of returning to the dining room, you can simply say that you have other plans. 

However, if they don't ask, there's no need to inform them, as My Time Dining is on a first-come, first-served basis — it's not expected that you will have the same waitstaff each night, like with traditional dining. 

If you have traditional dining, you can relax knowing that your assigned table and servers will be ready to welcome you each night you choose to eat in the dining room, even if you skip a few.

Read more: Royal Caribbean My Time Dining versus Traditional Dining

Why cruisers might skip the Main Dining Room

The Main Dining Room is designed to be a flexible option for cruisers. Although many choose to eat there every night since it's included in your cruise fare, others may prefer the intimate setting of specialty restaurants. 

You can either purchase a specialty dining package or pay the individual cover charges at restaurants like Izumi, Chops Grille, Hooked, and more. 

Another reason passengers might skip the dining room is for a quick meal at the buffet, rather than devoting time to a multi-course dinner. There are also more choices than in the dining room, so you can mix and match to create your perfect plate. 

The good thing is that you can choose how you want to mix up your cruise dining experience (or not). 

And if you do decide on a whim to skip the dining room, it's okay. Cruising is all about flexibility, and your waiter will understand the last-minute change of plans. 

Read more: 11 reasons eating at the cruise buffet instead of the dining room is better

Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas has windowless cabins for budget-conscious travelers and lavish suites for high-end cruisers. However, you'll also find plenty of mid-range options for those who prioritize comfort without breaking the bank. 

Historically, suites on Royal Caribbean's newest ships aren't cheap. The Ultimate Family Townhouse, for example, costs well over $15,000 per person on a weeklong cruise. Although Star Class suites come with the most perks, entry-level suites still offer plenty of value and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Paul Cranston shared images of his Junior Suite on Star of the Seas in the Star of the Seas 2025/2026 Facebook group, showing a spacious cruise cabin, modern décor, and a larger-than-usual balcony. 

Junior Suites are typically the most abundant suite category available. On Star of the Seas, for example, there are over 60 Junior Suites on Decks 9, 10, and 11. 

The price of Junior Suites on Star of the Seas varies. At the time of publication, a Junior Suite for two on the October 18, 2026, voyage starts at $9,417.84. However, the price increases to nearly $12,230 on a weeklong cruise on Star in July 2027. 

Here's a photo tour of a Junior Suite on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship, sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Inside Junior Suite #10130 on Star of the Seas

During Cranston's cruise, he stayed in room #10130, a forward Junior Suite located over 10 cabins away from the elevator bank.

With 322 sq. ft. of interior living space, it's larger than standard oceanview balconies, which come in at around 204 sq. ft. The Junior Suite's balcony is bigger, too. Where standard balconies measure 50 sq. ft, the Junior Suite's personal verandah is 80 sq. ft. 

As the mega-ship's entry-level suite, the living and sleeping area is combined, rather than having a separate bedroom. Still, the layout feels open and airy. 

On older ships, the Junior Suite's bed is positioned against one of the cabin's walls, which can make the space feel slightly more enclosed. On Star of the Seas, however, the bed faces the balcony, allowing guests to wake up to natural light and enjoy the passing scenery. 

According to the ship's deck plan, the Junior Suites can accommodate up to four guests: two in the Royal King (or two twin) beds and two on the double sofa bed. Someone else in the comments added that when they stayed in room #10554, there was plenty of extra space for a portable crib. 

Moving on, Cranston's photos show that his Junior Suite on Star of the Seas had ample storage, a well-appointed bathroom, a small seating area, and a vanity area. 

As such, it's a versatile choice for couples or families who want more space but don't necessarily want to pay for a larger suite. 

The bathroom is designed with a large vanity and tub-shower combination. Conversely, standard cabins have a small sink area and a standalone shower. 

Still, the highlight of the Junior Suite is the 80 sq. ft. balcony. The private verandah has upgraded seating, an outdoor dining table, and a plush chair with a footrest. 

What perks come with a Junior Suite on Star of the Seas?

Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite Class is comprised of three different tiers: Sea, Sky, and Star. The Junior Suite falls within the entry-level Sea tier. As such, it comes with fewer benefits than Sky and Star Class suites.

Perks for the Sea Class Junior Suite include: 

• Dedicated Check-In Line
• Priority Boarding
• Dinner At Coastal Kitchen, Based On Availability (Reservations Required)
• Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes
• Luxury Pillow Top Mattress and Linen
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine

Read more: Photos show what suites on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas look like

A certain number of Junior Suites are classified as Sky Junior Suites. The rooms themselves are the same, but they come with upgraded Sky Class benefits. 

The perks, however, come with a greater price tag. For example, a standard Junior Suite on Star of the Seas' Feb. 14, 2027, sailing starts at $3,767 per person, while a Sky Junior Suite comes in at $4,796 per person. As such, the Sky Junior Suite is nearly $2,000 more for the weeklong Caribbean voyage. 

Sky Class benefits on Royal Caribbean ships include: 

• Concierge Service All-Day
• All-Day Access To Coastal Kitchen (Reservations Required For Dinner)
• Specialty Bottled Water
• VOOM, The Fastest Internet At Sea (Until May 2026)
• Flexible Arrival Boarding & Priority Departure
• Priority Dining Reservations
• Reserved Entertainment Seating
• Suite Lounge Access
• Access To Suite Sun Deck (The Grove)
• Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes
• Luxury Pillow Top Mattress and Linen
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine

One company is pushing to build a brand-new cruise terminal in Tampa, Florida, that could accommodate larger ships. 

SSA Marine, a marine terminal operator that's been around since 1949, said it's working with Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC on a multi-berth cruise port in Manatee County, according to the company's proposal. 

The terminal would be built on a roughly 328-acre coastal property known as the Knott‑Cowen tract at the mouth of Tampa Bay next to the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge. If approved, construction would take three to five years. 

Currently, only smaller ships, like Grandeur of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas, Carnival Paradise, Norwegian Star, Celebrity Constellation, and Margaritaville at Sea's Islander, can sail from Tampa due to the height restrictions of the Skyway Bridge. As such, a new cruise port on the seaward side of the bridge would allow larger, more innovative ships to call Tampa home. 

"A new cruise port will complement existing cruise activities in the region by being able to accommodate the newer, larger, low-emissions cruise vessels that would otherwise be unable to visit due to the height restrictions of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge," reads the proposal's website. 

"As cruise ships continue to modernize, the region will be well positioned to align with and support the cruise industry’s future growth. Additionally, locating a new cruise port on the seaward side of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge could serve as a valuable community asset in the event of extreme weather or other emergency situations."

Read more: I cruised Royal Caribbean from Tampa for the first time

Tampa's new port project is in the early planning phase and has not been officially approved yet

Although the project is still in the early planning phase, meaning it is subject to zoning and other necessary approvals, initial work to identify and evaluate potential environmental, traffic, noise, and public access considerations has already begun. 

The website notes that "these topics will be addressed in greater detail as part of the approval process, and opportunities for public input will be provided before any final decisions are made."

Public input will also be an important part of the process, including hearings with the Manatee County Planning Commission and the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners. 

SSA Marine Division is committed to environmental stewardship as a central part of this cruise port project. The company recently acquired the adjacent 710-acre Rattlesnake Key property through its subsidiary, the Rattlesnake Key Preservation Company, for $18 million. 

They aim to prevent private commercialization and ensure long-term conservation. Rattlesnake Key is one of the most intact natural landscapes at the mouth of Tampa Bay and is known for its expansive mangrove forests, bird rookeries, shallow-water wetlands, and fish nursery habitat. 

Moving on, SSA Marine Division estimates that the project could have a significant economic impact, with the construction investment of the project estimated to generate more than 31,000 jobs in industries directly and indirectly related to the port in the state and region. 

Once operational, the new terminal is projected to support over 13,000 direct, indirect, and induced jobs and generate roughly $40 million per year in tax revenue for the county and school district, while contributing billions to the state and regional economy.

Port Tampa Bay had record-breaking numbers in 2025

The Western Florida cruise port welcomed over 1.6 million cruise passengers in 2025, along with over 262,000 shipping containers, Spectrum Bay News 9 reported. 

Port Tampa Bay is in the midst of working on its $1.2 billion "Master Plan 2030" vision, which includes building warehouses, expanding terminals, and even constructing a brand-new passenger terminal. 

"For us, it’s playing, maintaining the maritime industry, protecting it, allowing it to grow, prosper and integrating ourselves with our future plans and the growth of the region — the city of Tampa," Port Tampa Bay Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Raul Alfonso told Spectrum News.

Since Alaska is part of the United States, many travelers wonder whether they need a passport for an Alaskan cruise.

The Alaska cruise season is short, with Royal Caribbean sailings beginning in early May and going through September. As such, planning ahead is important. 

Because voyages don't run year-round, it's not uncommon for Alaska cruises to sell out in advance. Before booking, travelers must have proper documentation to avoid last-minute surprises. 

Certain voyages require all passengers, regardless of nationality, to have a valid passport, while U.S. citizens can get away with bringing a valid birth certificate and government-issued photo ID on others. 

Here's everything you need to know about whether you need a passport to cruise to Alaska or not. 

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Alaska?

Not all Alaskan cruises require passengers to have a passport. However, before booking your dream voyage to The Last Frontier, it's important to understand the various caveats. 

For starters, if you're not a U.S. citizen, you will need a valid passport on embarkation day to board your Alaska cruise, regardless of where it starts or ends. 

Similarly, U.S. citizens need a valid passport for one-way cruises from Seward, Alaska, or Vancouver, Canada. These include "Northbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier" and "Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier" itineraries. 

Passports are also required on round-trip cruises from Canada. In 2026, for example, Royal Caribbean is offering round-trip sailings from Vancouver on Serenade of the Seas. 

However, you aren't out of luck if you don't have a valid passport; U.S. citizens on a round-trip (or closed-loop) sailing from Seattle, Washington, don't need a passport for Alaska cruises. 

You'll notice on every round-trip sailing from Seattle that Royal Caribbean's ships stop in Victoria, British Columbia. This is because closed-loop cruises from the U.S. must visit a foreign port of call so as not to violate the Passenger Vessel Services Act. Don't worry — you still don't need a passport for these itineraries. That said, having one is always, always recommended. 

Read more: You can take a cruise without a passport, but some require one

What's the best Alaska cruise itinerary?

One-way cruises tend to be more immersive since less time is spent in transit from the continental United States. For example, one-way cruises often include a glacier viewing day at Hubbard Glacier, which is rare to find on round-trip sailings from Washington or Vancouver. 

Another benefit to one-way cruises is that it's easier to explore inland Alaska before or after your sailing. Seward, Alaska, for example, is about 360 miles from the Denali National Park and Preserve. Royal Caribbean will even take care of the planning if you book one of their cruisetours.

Sometimes, they're cheaper than round-trip cruises, too. Since planning pre- and post-cruise travel from two different destinations is more costly, it's not uncommon for cruise lines, Royal Caribbean included, to price these itineraries competitively to encourage travelers to choose them.

Round-trip sailings from Seattle, on the other hand, are the only option for travelers without a passport. While you won't visit remote glaciers, these itineraries still call at must-visit Alaskan ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, with scenic cruising through the Inside Passage.

In 2026, Royal Caribbean is deploying two ships to Washington: Anthem of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas. Two ships — Ovation of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas — will also offer cruises from Seward and Vancouver. As such, you can experience The Last Frontier on a Quantum Class ship regardless of whether you choose a one-way or round-trip sailing.

Read more: How to choose the right Alaska cruise itinerary

Alaska cruise cost in 2026

The cost of an Alaska cruise varies greatly based on which month you sail, as well as your stateroom category. 

June, July, and August see the highest demand. As such, cruise fares can be more expensive during the summer months. On the flip side, the shoulder season months of May and September see less demand and, therefore, more competitive prices. 

Additionally, interior, ocean-view, balcony cabins, and suites all come with varying price points. Windowless inside staterooms are typically the cheapest, with balconies and suites offering more space and premium views — along with a higher price tag. 

At the time of publication, the cheapest Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise in 2026 is aboard Ovation of the Seas on August 21. Inside cabins start at $657 per person, while the price of a balcony shoots up to $1,055 per person. 

The one-way cruise departs from Vancouver, British Columbia, and has scheduled visits to Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Skagway, and Hubbard Glacier before ending in Seward. 

The cheapest round-trip cruise is aboard Voyager of the Seas from Seattle on the Sept. 11, 2026, sailing. Prices start at $714 per person for a standard interior stateroom, with the cost of a balcony increasing to $1,694 per person. 

In addition to the base cruise fare, you'll have to factor in the price of add-ons like drink packages, specialty meals, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions. Ship-sponsored tours in Alaska tend to be pricier in Alaska than in The Bahamas or Caribbean. 

For example, it is not uncommon to see excursions for once-in-a-lifetime experiences like visiting a sled dog musher's camp or a glacier helicopter ride cost $250 or more per person. 

Read more: I booked a 7-day cruise to Alaska for $1,500 per person, but spent nearly $2,400 with extras. Take a closer look at how much my cruise cost

One cruise passenger missed their ship's departure in Port Canaveral, Florida, after traveling to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. They then tried to meet up with the Oasis Class ship in Nassau. However, their request was denied, causing them to miss out on their entire cruise vacation. 

Nobody wants their long-awaited vacation ruined before it even begins. Unfortunately, that was the case for Redditor Crispy-Don, who shared how they accidentally missed Utopia of the Seas' departure from Port Canaveral on January 12, 2026, in the r/royalcaribbean thread. 

"[W]e pulled a major travel fail today and showed up at Port Everglades instead of Port Canaveral (which is 3 hours away from Fort Lauderdale). We’ve obviously missed the ship’s departure. We are currently at FLL trying to book a flight to Nassau to meet the ship tomorrow morning," they wrote. 

"We have already contacted Royal Caribbean’s emergency travel line to request approval for a "downline join" in Nassau. They told us they have to review it and will email us if approved." 

Initially, Crispy-Don planned to spend the night in Fort Lauderdale and catch an 8:00 a.m. flight to Nassau on Tuesday, Jan. 13, from Miami International Airport (MIA). 

However, their hopes of rejoining the ship were quickly thwarted by Royal Caribbean, which proved that meeting up with a cruise in the next port of call isn't always a guarantee. 

In a follow-up post, Crispy-Don explained that they received an email from the cruise line, denying their request to board Utopia of the Seas in Nassau. 

(Credit: Crispy-Don/Reddit)

"We regret to inform you that your request to embark in Nassau, Bahamas has been denied by port authorities. The reason provided does not meet the established criteria for authorization to embark at an alternate port of call. Please note that this decision is final and cannot be appealed," the email reads. 

According to their post, Crispy-Don said that they told the cruise line they had confused Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale for Port Canaveral and were over 3 hours away by the time they realized the mistake on embarkation day. 

Despite the disappointment, Crispy-Don took full responsibility for the mistake, saying, "Obviously we [are] crushed as we booked our Nassau flight tickets (refundable) hoping it would work, but this was my own mistake to learn from. Good to know that Royal won’t just green light you to join at a different port."

In the end, Crispy-Don lost about $1,000 on two cruise fares, though with Royal Caribbean refunding taxes and fees of roughly $200, the actual loss was closer to $800.

Other users flocked to the comments to share their own travel mishaps

Perhaps because it was the way that Crispy-Don handled the situation (i.e., taking responsibility and not taking their frustration out on the cruise line), but Redditors flooded the comments with support, sharing their own travel mistakes. 

"I once missed a flight because I went to the gate of my seat number instead of the correct gate which was in a different terminal. My seat number gate was completely empty and I sat there like an idiot until it was too late," one person wrote. 

Another added, "Was going through a divorce and needed to get away. Booked last minute trip. Price was really good. I arrived at my big city airport. Good news; my ticket was for that day; bad news; not for that year."

Read more: I spent 73 days on Royal Caribbean cruise ships this year. Here are 6 travel mistakes I won't be making in 2026

The cruiser's unfortunate incident serves as a cautionary tale to always check and double-check every aspect of your travel plans before departure

Cruising is essentially a form of time-sensitive travel. As such, flights, pre-cruise accommodations, and embarkation details require careful attention before and during your vacation. 

If you arrive at the port too late, whether because of an unexpected traffic jam or flight delay, you may miss your cruise ship entirely. So, it's important to plan ahead. For example, if you know you need to fly to your embarkation port, plan on arriving at least one day before embarkation. 

The same goes for during your sailing. If you venture off the ship alone, whether independently or with a third-party tour agency, give yourself a buffer to return before the all-aboard time. 

A few Redditors thanked Crispy-Don, as his experience was a reminder to double-check their own travel details ahead of time. 

"Whew made me double check that I am indeed flying into Orlando and not [Fort Lauderdale]," said one user. 

Another commented, "I’m sorry this happened. I leave on a cruise on Friday and I’m checking to make sure I have the right port."

The Government of The Bahamas is planning on developing a new cruise port. However, unlike Nassau, Freeport, Bimini, and other cruise line private destinations, the island has remained largely undeveloped and sparsely populated.

On January 7, 2026, the Office of the Prime Minister announced its intention to develop a cruise port on the island of Mayaguana, The Bahamas' easternmost island, through a new public-private partnership.

"The Office of the Prime Minister advises that the Government of The Bahamas has entered into a Public Private Partnership (PPP) to advance the Port at Mayaguana, a major maritime and logistics project intended to strengthen economic activity in Mayaguana and across the South East Bahamas," the press release reads. 

Continuing on, "This PPP positions Mayaguana to play a stronger role in regional trade, cruise activity, and related services."

As such, the new port won't be designed to cater solely to cruise tourism; it will also serve as a cargo port for vessels heading to the Panama Canal and other major ports. 

The new port project is to be jointly owned by the Government of The Bahamas, the Mayaguana Island Development Fund, and Global Lead Consultant Group Limited. Development will be split into three phases:

1. Construction of a "Temporary Marine Offloading Facility (TMOF)" and a deep-water port
2. Cruise ship terminal construction
3. Deep-water port enhancements and a terminal for larger vessels, plus adjacent land development and handling components

Detailed planning will continue in 2026. At the time of publication, the timeline for when the new port would welcome cruise passengers was unknown. 

Based on preliminary estimates included in the press release, the project team anticipates the venture will create approximately 2,000 full-time jobs.

"The Government will continue to keep the public informed as the project advances through required approvals and consultation processes, with a focus on jobs for Bahamians, strong standards, and clear community benefits for Mayaguana," the press release concludes. 

Where is Mayaguana?

(Credit: Google Earth)

The 110-square-mile island is roughly 66 miles west of Turks and Caicos and approximately 334 miles southeast of Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas. Additionally, according to the Islands of The Bahamas Visitor Guide, Mayaguana has a population of just 277, based on the 2010 census. 

Its location makes it ideal for Eastern Caribbean itineraries, positioning the island as a strategic stop between developed cruise ports like Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. 

Mayaguana was once home to the Lucayans, the original inhabitants of The Bahamas, and a branch of the Arawak Indian tribe. In fact, Mayaguana is the only Bahamian island that has retained its original Arawak name over the years. 

In addition to its small population and laid-back villages, the island is renowned for its unspoiled beaches, including Horse Pond Beach, Pirate's Well, and Betsy Cay. 

It's also surrounded by largely untouched coral reefs, offering great snorkeling and diving opportunities. For divers, specifically, the offshore reefs reach depths of 45 to 60 feet.