Tag Archives: Carnival Cruise Line

Galveston Port Off to a Strong Start in 2023

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The Port of Galveston is off to a strong start in 2023 with increased performance for cargo and cruise ships in February this year, compared to last year, according to a statement.

Port of Galveston welcomed a total of 71 cruise sailings compared to February last year, up 22 per cent and recorded 521,503 passenger movements (embarkations and debarkations) which is an increase of 123 per cent

“Solid financial performance is helping our self-sustaining port fund major capital projects, including cruise terminal and cargo facility expansions. All of this translates into more jobs and regional economic growth,” said Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port director and CEO.

The port also saw an increase in cargo (52 total, a 13 per cent increase) and lay ship calls, (55 total, a 10 per cent increase).

“As these numbers reflect, cruising from Galveston Island has never been better. We estimate 355 sailings in 2023, a new record in the port’s 22-year history as a cruise homeport. We’re also on track to break our previous record of more than 1 million cruise passengers last year.”

Rees said that the factors contributing to the industry growth include the growing popularity of cruise vacations, the port’s location and the opening of a third cruise terminal in November 2022, among other factors.

“With all of this going for our port, it’s no surprise that popular cruise lines Carnival and Royal Caribbean, both long-time port cruise partners, are investing in cruise terminal infrastructure and newer and larger ships for Galveston. Other major cruise lines, Disney, Norwegian and Princess, have seasonal sailings from Galveston.”

“This cruise and cargo growth translates into new jobs and more hours for union workers. Experts forecast more than 650,000 union hours on the Galveston waterfront in 2023, the highest in years, “ added Rees.

Carnival Elation Resumes Service After Drydock

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The Carnival Elation is welcoming guests back today following a routine drydock at the Grand Bahama Shipyard.

After two weeks out of service, the 1998-built cruise ship is departing on a short cruise to the Bahamas.

Sailing from Jacksonville, the five-night itinerary features visits to Nassau and Princess Cays, as well as two full days at sea.

Now one of the oldest ships in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, the Elation underwent routine maintenance during the shipyard visit.

Work carried out in the period included class inspections, technical overhauls and upgrades, as well as hotel upkeep and minor updates to public areas and cabins.

The vessel also became the latest to receive the Carnival’s new hull livery, which includes a stately navy-blue hull along with vibrant red and white accents running the entire length of the entire ship. First introduced by the Mardi Gras, the new colours are being added to the entire fleet.

In 2020, during its previous drydock, the Elation received several new venues, such as Bonsai Sushi Express, JavaBlue Café and Alchemy Bar.

A few years before, in 2017, the 70,367-ton vessel had also seen the addition of other signature venues and experiences of Carnival Cruise Line, including the company’s WaterWorks aquapark and new dining options like Guy’s Burger Joint, RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Cantina and BlueIguana Tequila Bar.

The Elation also received new cabins during both refits, with 38 extra cabins added in 2017 and 30 more added in 2020. Private balconies were also added to a total of 98 existing staterooms during the first refurbishment.

Sailing year-round from its homeport in Jacksonville, the 2,040-guest vessel offers a series of four- and five-night cruises to the Bahamas.

In addition to Nassau and Freeport, the itineraries feature visits to Bimini and Princess Cays – a private island destination owned by Princess Cruises.

Along with the Carnival Paradise, the Elation is one of the original eight Fantasy-Class ships that remains in service.

Carnival Cruise Line Raises Gratuities and Wi-Fi Prices

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Carnival Cruise Line is adjusting gratuity levels for all of its U.S. and European cruises, raising the values of the recommended daily crew tips starting on April 1, 2023.

According to a letter sent to booked guests, the gratuities for both standard staterooms and suites will be increased by $1.50.

“Our shipboard team members work hard to provide exceptional and friendly service, so we hope you will agree that this slight increase is well deserved,” Carnival stated.

With the change, passengers of standard cabins will now be suggested to pay $16 per guest per day, while for suite guests, the recommended amount will be $18 per guest per day.

Prepaid gratuities will be honoured, the company said, with passengers being able to secure the current rates if they pay the fees online before April 1.

If not paid in advance, the recommended gratuity value will be added to passengers’ onboard account during their cruise “as a convenience,” Carnival added in the letter.

However, while onboard, guests are also free to adjust the values at their own discretion, the company explained.

In addition to raising gratuity levels, Carnival Cruise Line is also raising the prices of the onboard Wi-Fi internet access plans.

According to the same statement, the increase will be effective for all embarkations starting on January 16, 2023.

The Social plan had its fare adjusted to $12.75 per day, up from $10.20, while the Value plan will be priced at $17 per day, up from $14.45. The Premium plan will cost $18.70 per day, up from $17.

Passengers are also welcome to prepurchase their internet plans at the current rates, the company added.

Carnival last adjusted the value of the recommended daily gratuities in April 2022. At the time, the amounts were increased by $0.50.