The Barefoot Brief: October 17, 2025
Princess Cruises Cancels Asia Deployments Amid Staffing & Port Turbulence
In yet another twist worthy of soap operas, Princess Cruises has pulled multiple ships from its Asia itineraries citing crew shortages, regulatory headaches, and port access issues. Recent schedules formerly promising Japan, Korea, and Taiwan have been quietly scrubbed in favor of more stable Caribbean or Australasian routes. (Yes, your “Asia dream” cruise may now end up being the 7-night Coconut Shuffle.)
Affected passengers are being offered full refunds or rebooking options, but the scramble is real — many are discovering the changes mid‑vacation. This feels like airlines canceling flights but with bigger lifeboats and fancier buffets.
Overboard Tragedy on Icon of the Seas — Crew Member Dies in Rescue Aftermath
A crew member aboard Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas tragically lost their life after falling overboard while the ship was sailing near the Bahamas. The ship initiated a large search‑and‑rescue, turned around, and slowed its course in response. Sadly, despite recovery efforts, the crew member was pronounced dead.
In moments like this, the sarcasm goes quiet. Our deepest condolences to the family, and a reminder: no itinerary is worth risking lives.
P&O Plans 124‑Night 'Longest-Ever' World Voyage for 2028 Launch
Feeling claustrophobic on 7-night Caribbean loops? P&O Cruises just unveiled plans for a 124-night world cruise aboard Arcadia starting January 2028, departing and returning to Southampton. The route will span over 30 destinations, with special attention on Asia, Australia, and the Americas. £11,199 is the starting fare — for the bravest globetrotters.
It’s an audacious play: “Let’s make cruises for the masochists who want to never see the same port twice.” But Sunday brunches at sea never looked more epic.
Netflix Doc Breathes Life into 1998 Disappearance — 3 New Leads in Amy Bradley Case
A Netflix series reignited interest in the 1998 disappearance of Amy Bradley, who vanished from a Caribbean cruise ship. The spotlight has produced three “very significant” new tips — including interviews with bartenders, suspicious website traffic, and alleged eyewitness claims.
While the mystery remains unsolved, this renewed momentum might actually move the needle. The oceans hide many secrets, but sometimes glare and attention force them to surface a bit.
That’s your cruise week in review — ports changed, lives lost, and bold bets placed.
Anchors down till next week,
— Barefoot and Booked
