Cruise and Travel Brief
A New Day on the Waves — January 15, 2026
Breaking: In a decisive itinerary shift, Royal Caribbean has confirmed it will suspend all calls to Labadee, Haiti, through the end of 2026. This expansion of previously temporary cancellations reflects ongoing hazard concerns and aligns with the highest‑level U.S. travel advisory, prompting the line to elevate guest security by substituting alternative ports of call such as Nassau, Cozumel, and Grand Turk.
Meanwhile, the broader travel landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for refined explorers:
The U.S. government has raised its advisory for Grenada, urging visitors to exercise increased caution as crime indicators climb; popular Eastern Caribbean cruise itineraries could require heightened situational awareness.
On home shores, the Port of Galveston advances its infrastructure with over $8 million in grants for pedestrians and traffic safety — part of a strategy to improve the embarkation experience amid an expected 2026 passenger boom.
Health remains in focus at sea: the Rotterdam has reported one of 2026’s first significant norovirus outbreaks; comprehensive cleaning protocols are in effect to safeguard the well‑being of future sailings.
From the fleet perspective, Oceania Cruises is redefining its guest environment with an adult‑only reservation policy, catering to a sophisticated, tranquil travel sensibility.
On the experiential front, standout cruise concepts continue to flourish. Alaska’s 2026 travel season beckons with expanded options, while 2026 travel trends spotlight a surge in ultra‑luxury experiences — from bespoke polar expeditions to tailored island sojourns — resonating with seasoned globetrotters and connoisseurs of refined adventure alike.
Stay tuned for more curated insights as the year’s journeys unfold.