Princess Cruises is preparing for a significant shift in how crew performance is evaluated and developed onboard, as outlined in a recent message from Chief Human Resources Officer Luba Pelikhova.

In both an internal communication and a supporting video message, the company introduced updates to its “Performance Partnership” program — a system designed to guide how crew performance is assessed across the fleet.

AIDA Cruises has announced that Kristina Steinle has taken command of the cruise ship AIDAluna. The update was shared on social media, where AIDA highlighted Steinle’s long-standing connection to the vessel. She first joined the company in 2013 as a third officer aboard AIDAluna — the same ship she now commands.

Thousands of athletes competing at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan will be staying in aboard a cruise ship docked in Nagoya. As part of a cost-saving and flexible accommodation plan, organizers have chartered Costa Serena to house a significant portion of participants during the event.

Disney Cruise Line has officially revealed the name of its newest ship, Disney Believe, marking another major step in the company’s expanding fleet. The announcement was made during The Walt Disney Company’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders, in one of CEO Josh D’Amaro’s first major moves in his new role.

Hamburg is set to host its 837th Port Anniversary from May 8–10, 2026, one of Europe’s largest maritime festivals, with AIDA Cruises returning as a major sponsor for the 12th time.

The cruise line will make a strong showing throughout the weekend, highlighted by three ship visits:

A 64-year-old British passenger aboard Royal Caribbean’s cruise ship Star of the Seas, required urgent medical evacuation while the ship was sailing a 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral.

According to a post from U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan, the rescue took place approximately 200 nautical miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, after the ship reported that a passenger was experiencing a serious medical emergency.

Princess Cruises has issued a fleetwide reminder to crew members confirming that its updated tattoo policy will officially take effect on April 2, 2026, reinforcing rules that have already sparked discussion across the fleet.

In a recent internal communication sent to all shipboard teammates, the company reminded crew that multiple visible tattoos or full sleeve tattoos must be covered while on duty or in guest areas, using approved uniform options or tattoo sleeve coverings.

Marella Cruises has revealed a lineup of headline performers for its upcoming 30th Birthday sailings in May 2026, with British singers Pixie Lott and Lemar among the latest stars confirmed for the celebrations.

MSC Group is expanding its entertainment operations with the creation of a new production hub in Edinburgh.