After more than two decades at sea, Captain Kate McCue, has announced her departure from Celebrity Cruises. Kate McCue made history as the first American woman to command a large cruise ship, shared the emotional news on her social media accounts.

“Today, I say farewell to Celebrity,” McCue wrote. “I've spent the last 22 years on 11 ships in the Royal Caribbean Group, from 2nd Officer to Captain. I have seen some of the most beautiful places, met inspiring and wonderful people, and had opportunities to live my 12-year-old dream out loud!”

Three Australian passengers aboard Quantum of the Seas were medically evacuated in two separate rescue operations during the ship’s eight-day South Pacific cruise. The maritime gendarmerie patrol boat operated by the Armed Forces in New Caledonia, coordinated the evacuations on Wednesday, February 19, transferring all three individuals to Médipôle for urgent medical care.

Royal Caribbean International has officially announced the name of its third Icon-Class cruise ship, Legend of the Seas. The highly anticipated vessel will make its maiden voyage in the Mediterranean in August 2026, confirming earlier speculation about a European launch.

Two feathered stowaways have captured the attention of passengers and crew aboard Allure of the Seas during its transatlantic voyage from Miami to Europe. The two owls made themselves at home in the ship’s Central Park, where they have been enjoying an unplanned voyage across the Atlantic.

The cruise industry isn’t just about all-you-can-eat buffets, ocean views, and laid-back days at sea. Behind it all, a handful of business moguls are calling the shots—turning the high seas into their empire and raking in fortunes big enough to buy their own private islands (and some probably have!). 

Let’s take a closer look at the power players shaping the world of cruising!

The Swiss singer and last year’s Eurovision Song Contest champion, Nemo, made an unexpected appearance aboard the Allure of the Seas for a special 30-minute performance. The artist was flown in for the 35th Anniversary of the Atlantis gay cruise, marking a rare sighting of the elusive musician.

Nemo’s Low-Key Comeback

Despite the excitement surrounding the event, many attendees reportedly did not recognize the "The Code" star. Nemo’s current management confirmed the performance, stating:

Royal Caribbean International is known for its incredible fleet, stunning destinations, and unforgettable experiences. But beyond the ships the heart of the company lies in its crew members, the dedicated individuals who create lifelong memories for guests. When Royal Caribbean’s President, Michael Bayley, recently invited guests to share their experiences with the crew, the response was overwhelming. Passengers shared stories of kindness, dedication, and connections that highlight just how much the crew means to them.

Above and Beyond: A Lifesaving Gesture

Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas is finally getting that jaw-dropping, multimillion-dollar facelift we’ve all been waiting for—four years late, but hey, better late than never! Because of the pandemic, the revamp got pushed back, leaving the ship with just routine maintenance. But now, it's game on for a $100 million upgrade as part of Royal Caribbean’s “Royal Amplified” program.

After more than two decades at the helm of some of the world’s most iconic Royal Caribbean ships, Captain Gus Andersson is embarking on a new adventure—this time, on land. The seasoned mariner has announced his transition from sea to shore, stepping down as a cruise ship captain to join Royal Caribbean’s Port Development team.

Royal Caribbean is celebratieng a major milestone this week—Icon of the Seas is officially one year old. And what a year it’s been! Since setting sail, the world’s largest cruise ship has welcomed 192,000 families on board, redefining what it means to take a family vacation at sea.