In a significant update for cruise enthusiasts, Mexico has announced a new $5 fee for passengers docking at its ports, set to take effect on July 1, 2025. This fee is a substantial reduction from the originally proposed $42 tax, which had raised concerns among travelers and cruise operators alike. The new fee structure aims to balance the needs of the cruise industry with the economic benefits for local communities dependent on tourism.

Quark Expeditions has announced plans to charter World Voyager from Atlas Ocean Voyages for three consecutive Antarctica seasons, starting in November 2026. The 168-guest, all-suite, all-balcony expedition vessel will serve Quark’s Antarctic itineraries before returning to Atlas at the end of each 4.5-month season to operate in Northern Europe and the Arctic.

MSC Cruises has officially opened what it calls the world’s largest cruise terminal at PortMiami. The MSC Miami Cruise Terminal welcomed its first ship, MSC Seascape, on February 8.

The massive facility is designed to accommodate up to three ships at once and can process as many as 36,000 guests per day, according to MSC. This year, the cruise line will sail four ships from the terminal, including the highly anticipated MSC World America, which is set to debut in April with seven-night itineraries. The terminal will also serve MSC’s luxury sister brand, Explora Journeys.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced an exciting array of new onboard entertainment offerings set to debut throughout 2025. The luxury cruise line has curated six innovative shows featuring dynamic performances, immersive storytelling, and cutting-edge production, all shaped by guest feedback.

Disney Cruise Line has announced an ambitious fleet expansion, set to grow to 13 ships by 2031. The Disney Treasure, the newest ship, will debut in late 2024, followed by the Disney Destiny and Disney Adventure in 2025. In 2027, a fourth Wish-class ship will launch, capable of hosting 4,000 passengers and powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Princess Cruises has announced modifications to upcoming Regal Princess itineraries departing from Galveston, Texas, to address essential engine maintenance. The changes affect sailings scheduled for December 8, January 5, January 12, and January 19.

For the first three departures, the planned calls to Costa Maya, Mexico, will be replaced with extended overnight stays on the Honduran island of Roatan. On the January 19 voyage, the visit to Montego Bay, Jamaica, will also be substituted with a longer stay in Roatan.

The cruise industry has rebounded strongly in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic passenger numbers and shaking off its negative reputation. With growing interest across generations, cruise lines are exploring innovative ways to extend onboard experiences, catering to evolving travel preferences. Virgin Voyages has now joined the trend by launching an Unlimited Cruise Pass, allowing travelers to sail anywhere the brand operates for an entire year.