The Barefoot Brief: August 1st
Asia-Pacific Waits on Deck as Cruises Pull Back
Cruise industry giants—including Disney Cruise Line, Princess, and P&O—are stepping back from Australian waters, citing steep port fees, infrastructure headaches, and a weak Aussie dollar. Disney’s Wonder will bid the region adieu after the 2025–26 season, as lines shift focus to North America’s fatter margins. Still, Royal Caribbean and a few others are hanging in—hoping future investment and reform bring them back down under.
Royal’s New Godmother Is Astronaut Kellie Gerardi
After Diana Ross had to step away for health and family reasons, Royal Caribbean named space research astronaut—and STEM advocate—Kellie Gerardi the new godmother of Star of the Seas. Gerardi, the 90th woman in space, will christen the vessel on August 20 in Port Canaveral. It’s a stellar choice that blends science, inspiration, and cruise line flair.
Serenade Skips Glacier Fjord After Landslide
Natural drama kept Serenade of the Seas off its usual Alaska course—Tracy Arm Fjord—after a landslide sent a wall of debris crashing into the water. The ship adjusted its scenic route to keep the views coming, but safely. Just a reminder that even in cruise paradise, Mother Nature calls some shots.
Star of the Seas Gets Ready for Liftoff
Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon-class colossus, Star of the Seas, is gearing up for its grand debut on August 31. Built in Finland and destined for Port Canaveral, she arrives boasting record-breaking waterpark thrills, skywalks, adults-only zones, and enough entertainment to keep everyone dazzled. If cruise ships had personalities, this one would be “family-fun unicorn.”
Building Tomorrow’s Comfort—Short Cruises on the Rise
Guests who prefer quick getaways, this one's for you: Carnival’s Excel-class Mardi Gras will be the first of its kind to offer shorter, 4–5 day sailings starting in 2027. Think weekend magic—slide, sip, repeat in just a few days. It’s efficiency meets indulgence.
⚓ That’s the deck wrap for early August! Check back next week for more unsinkable cruise news, ship stories, and sea-worthy style.
