December 2025 Newsletter

Ahoy JGOOT Cruisers!

Welcome to the December edition of the JGOOT Cruises Membership Newsletter! As always, we’re here to bring you top tips, exciting updates, and must-book deals to make your cruising experiences even better. Let's dive in!

CAPTAIN’S TIP: Smooth Sailing for Holiday Cruises

Holiday cruises can be magical—but they also come with crowds, higher demand, and unique challenges. Here’s how to cruise through the season stress-free:

• Arrive early. Flight delays are common in December, so plan to arrive at your port city at least a day early to avoid missing the ship.

• Pack for festivity. Many cruise lines host themed dinners, holiday shows, and even visits from Santa. Pack a festive outfit or two—and don’t forget a sweater for those chilly dining rooms!

• Expect kids. Cruises over Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s are family magnets. If you're looking for a quiet escape, consider a ship with adults-only areas or retreat-style upgrades.

• Book extras early. Specialty dining, spa appointments, and excursions fill up quickly over the holidays. Reserve those in advance through your cruise portal.

• Bring small gifts or décor. If you're traveling with family, consider magnetic holiday decorations for your cabin door or a mini tree. Some cruisers even exchange ornaments!

• Watch for special menus. Holiday meals and treats are often included—plan your dining times strategically so you don’t miss out.

’Tis the season to be cruising—plan ahead and enjoy the festive seas! 🛳✨

Upcoming Multiplier Dates in Las Vegas (for info on how to use these dates, see lesson 5 in the course):

• December 15th - 25th

• Slots: 5X

• Tables: 7X

• January 12th - 18th

• Slots & Tables: 10X

• February 2nd - 5th

• Slots: 5X

2026 Cruise Ship Preview: 14 New Vessels, $11 Billion Investment, 33,000 New Berths: The global cruise industry is gearing up for a major expansion in 2026, with 14 new ships scheduled for delivery—adding over 33,000 berths at an estimated cost of $11 billion. The lineup spans a range of categories, from the massive Legend of the Seas, set to become Royal Caribbean’s next Icon-class ship, to the intimate 100-guest Magellan Discoverer, the only expedition ship launching that year. Luxury brands like Four Seasons, Orient Express, Emerald Cruises, Viking, Explora Journeys, and Regent Seven Seas are also debuting vessels, while large mainstream ships from Disney, MSC, Norwegian, and TUI round out the class of 2026. The full cruise orderbook now includes 72 ships scheduled through 2036, collectively worth over $70 billion.

Carnival Expands Cheers! Zero Proof Package into 2026: Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed that its popular Cheers! Zero Proof beverage package—originally available only through 2025 sailings—will be extended to cruises in 2026. Brand Ambassador John Heald announced that due to strong demand, the non-alcoholic drink package will soon be available for future bookings. The package, introduced in September 2023, includes a wide variety of alcohol-free options such as sodas, juices, zero-proof cocktails, non-alcoholic beer and wine, smoothies, protein shakes, energy drinks, and more. It’s priced at $29.99 per person, per day, and designed for individual use on board only (not at ports of call). Sales for 2026 are expected to open soon.

Manhattan Cruise Terminal Redevelopment: The New York City Economic Development Corporation has announced a major redevelopment plan for the Manhattan Cruise Terminal that will replace 90-year-old piers with a fully modernized, electrified terminal capable of hosting the world’s largest cruise ships. Designed to support two 8,000-passenger and one 6,000-passenger vessels at the same time, the new facility will include shore power, hybrid tugboat infrastructure, public waterfront access, and a new multimodal hub to reduce truck traffic and emissions. With a $20 million initial investment and sustainability at its core, the plan aims to boost tourism, reduce pollution, and integrate the terminal into the broader Hudson River Park community.

Lisbon Named Best Southern Europe Cruise Port at 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards:
Lisbon Cruise Port has earned the title of “Best Port in Southern Europe” at the 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards, marking the first time the terminal has received this prestigious honor. Announced at a gala in Barcelona, the award was determined by public votes and a panel of industry experts, recognizing Lisbon’s excellence in service, infrastructure, efficiency, and guest experience. The accolade further cements Lisbon’s role as a luxury cruise hub and reinforces Portugal’s position as a premier global travel destination.

Quark Expeditions Kicks Off Antarctica Season with Rare Snow Hill Emperor Penguin Landing: Quark Expeditions successfully launched its 2025–26 Antarctica season by flying guests via twin-engine helicopters to the remote Emperor penguin colony on Snow Hill Island—one of the most elusive wildlife experiences on Earth. Led by Expedition Leader Ryan McDevitt and supported by Captain Roy Laud and Lead Pilot Jonny Mutch, the Ultramarine ship navigated through Antarctic waters to reach a spot just 10 nautical miles from the colony. Guests witnessed a breathtaking Antarctic sunrise before making the landing, all in strict accordance with IAATO conservation guidelines. This milestone marks the beginning of Quark’s limited Snow Hill voyages, with next season’s departures now open for booking.

Virgin Voyages Expands Entertainment with New Show & Production Company: Virgin Voyages has unveiled its latest original show, Booked, now playing aboard the Scarlet Lady, alongside the launch of its new production company, “Screw It, Let’s Do It Productions.” This move signals the brand’s intent to expand its entertainment offerings beyond the sea to land-based venues, including Virgin Hotels and corporate partners. Booked—a mix of dance, acrobatics, and cabaret storytelling by No Ceilings Entertainment—will be developed for land theaters by 2026, and the popular Scarlet Night experience will debut at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas and Shoreditch next year. The Scarlet Lady, sailing year-round from Miami, has also undergone a significant upgrade with revamped suites, VIP cabanas, and the new Lucky Lotus restaurant. To support its growing entertainment ambitions, Virgin has opened a new 30,000-square-foot rehearsal studio in Orlando. Entertainment is a key driver of Virgin’s strong 30% repeat booking rate.