Cruise Radio: Weekly Cruise News & Travel Tips Star of the Seas Review, World's Largest Cruise Ship + Cruise News | Royal Caribbean
Jan 29, 2026
Richard Simms, a Cruise Radio staff writer who covers itinerary and port updates, joins to discuss major cruise headlines. They cover overnight stays at Great Stirrup Cay, Winter Storm Fern disruptions, Norwegian's new arrival rule, MSC’s Freeport plans, Scenic Eclipse ice assistance, Carnival labor disputes, and a hands-on review of Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas with family-focused features.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Unexpected Overnight Docking At Great Stirrup Cay
- Norwegian Encore stayed overnight docked at Great Stirrup Cay after a medical diversion and port issue, creating an impromptu island experience.
- Guests enjoyed beach activities, a glow party, and a full next-day beach day though they couldn't sleep ashore.
Buy Travel Insurance For Cruises
- Always buy travel insurance for cruises to protect against itinerary changes, delays, and airport closures.
- Doug Parker emphasized insurance after storms and cancellations disrupted many travelers.
Icebreaker Assisted Scenic Eclipse
- Scenic Eclipse encountered heavy ice in Antarctica and the U.S. icebreaker Polar Star assisted to speed passage.
- Passengers watched from deck with champagne while the icebreaker cleared a route, and nobody was in danger.