The Barefoot Brief: September 19, 2025
Wonder of the Seas Brawl Forces Ship Back to Miami (Sept 15, 2025)
Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas had its vacation vibes cut short after a poolside brawl broke out near the kids’ splash zone. Two passengers wound up in the hospital with minor injuries, and the world’s largest cruise ship had to return to Miami instead of continuing its itinerary. Nothing like an impromptu UFC fight card to ruin a family cruise.
Carnival Pride Crew Removed Over Exploitation Allegations (Sept 14–15, 2025)
Four crew members aboard Carnival Pride were removed in Baltimore after U.S. authorities accused them of possessing child sexual exploitation material. Carnival has confirmed the crew are no longer onboard and is cooperating with investigators. It’s disturbing, and while details remain limited, this is one headline that won’t be filed under “fun at sea.”
Texas Passenger Dies Hiking Mount Roberts in Juneau (Sept 17, 2025)
A 36-year-old passenger from Texas lost his life after slipping on the Mount Roberts trail in Juneau. Conditions were slick and foggy, and he and a companion had strayed off the designated path. Search crews, with help from drones, later located his body. His friend survived with minor injuries. A tragic reminder that Alaska’s beauty comes with risks if you wander off-trail.
Florida Man Found Dead Aboard Oceania Riviera in Sitka (Sept 15, 2025)
A 71-year-old Florida man was discovered deceased in his cabin while Oceania Riviera was docked in Sitka. Authorities are treating it as an unattended death, with no foul play suspected. A sober reminder that medical emergencies can happen anywhere — even while you’re supposed to be in vacation mode.
Celebrity Beyond Email Blunder Confuses Passengers (Sept 16, 2025)
Guests on Celebrity Beyond were sent “itinerary change” emails that listed ports that weren’t even part of their cruises. Cue panic. The line later admitted the emails were an error — only minor arrival and departure tweaks are actually in play. Still, nothing kills the pre-cruise buzz like thinking you’re suddenly swapping Italy for Iceland.
Western Australia Cruise Boom Announced (Sept 18, 2025)
Western Australia is gearing up for a cruise surge in 2026–2027. Ports like Broome and Albany are getting upgrades, and lines are adding itineraries along the Kimberley and Coral Coast. Translation: pack your sunscreen and get ready to swap “Bahamas or bust” for “reef meets red desert.” It’s about to be the new brag-worthy cruise playground.
Carnival Rewards Shake-Up: “Diamond Forever” (Sept 16–18, 2025)
After heavy backlash, Carnival has tweaked its upcoming loyalty overhaul. If you reach Diamond status by May 31, 2026, you’ll keep it for life — permanent, no take-backs. Platinum members won’t get lifetime perks but will score bonus “stars” when the new program launches. Milestone awards (25th, 50th, etc.) are also being honored for years to come. Translation: loyalists made enough noise to keep their diamonds from sinking.
