February 2026 Newsletter

Ahoy JGOOT Cruisers!

Welcome to the February 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: Don’t let spring break prices sink your budget—book shoulder season cruises now!

Spring and summer itineraries are filling fast, but savvy cruisers know that late April and early May often offer the best of both worlds: milder weather, fewer crowds, and leftover off-season pricing—especially in the Caribbean and Mediterranean.

Watch for last-minute repositioning cruises too (ships moving between regions), which can be deeply discounted and sometimes offer unique ports you won’t see on standard routes. Want to cruise smarter, not harder? Keep your eye on our alerts and grab those hidden gems before they’re gone! 🛳️

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

• February 2nd - 5th

• Slots: 5X

MSC EXPANDS BAHAMAS PRESENCE WITH SECOND PRIVATE ISLAND: MSC Cruises has confirmed plans to build a second private island destination adjacent to its existing Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas. Referred to internally as “Little Cay,” the new island will align with Ocean Cay’s nature-forward concept, featuring luxury amenities and water elements. Details including the official name and opening date will be shared later. In addition, Ocean Cay is set for major enhancements: by late 2027, an extended pier will allow two ships to dock simultaneously. New guest offerings will include an adults-only retreat called Paradise Sands, more dining options (including the island’s first specialty restaurant), expanded cabana choices, and a redesigned family beach area with a splash pad, ropes course, and kids’ playground. MSC also plans to debut the MSC Foundation’s “Shifting Perspective” Experience, an immersive marine conservation initiative.

NORWEGIAN AURA UNVEILED AS NCL'S LARGEST AND LONGEST SHIP: Norwegian Cruise Line has revealed the Norwegian Aura, its largest and longest ship to date, set to debut in May 2027 in Europe before homeporting in Miami that June. At 1,130 feet long and 169,000 gross tons, the Aura will accommodate 3,840 guests and feature expansive new amenities across its 18 to 21 decks. These include Ocean Heights, a sprawling top-deck activity zone with five waterslides (including NCL’s first dueling mat racers), a towering 82-foot ropes course, rock climbing wall, mini golf, amusement-style games, and cabanas with views of Vibe Beach Club. The ship will also boast the largest pool deck in the fleet and an expanded Ocean Boulevard promenade for outdoor relaxation and kid-friendly activities.

CELEBRITY RIVER CRUISES IS DOUBLING: Celebrity River Cruises has announced a major expansion of its European fleet, committing to 10 new ships by 2031, which will double its fleet to 20 vessels. The first of these, Celebrity Compass, will debut in 2027, marking the brand’s entrance into river cruising. This rapid growth responds to overwhelming guest demand—its 2027 inaugural season sold out in under six minutes—and the company is now accepting bookings for 2028, which will include over 160 sailings to 50+ destinations across Europe. The expanded itineraries will include iconic rivers like the Rhine and Danube, with 24 ports scheduled for 2028 and an 80% increase in European destinations compared to the 2027 rollout.

NEW HOLLAND AMERICA SHORE COLLECTIONS DEEPEN LOCAL CONNECTIONS: Holland America Line has launched two immersive shore excursion collections: Meet the Makers and Community Connections. These curated experiences go beyond traditional sightseeing, inviting guests into kitchens, workshops, farms, and homes to engage directly with the artisans and locals who shape each destination. From tasting olives at a family farm in Greece to paddling a traditional Maori canoe in New Zealand or enjoying warm hospitality with a local family in Ireland, these tours offer authentic cultural encounters while supporting local communities and preserving regional traditions.

CELEBRITY CRUISES INTRODUCES MEDITERRANEAN FESTIVALS AT SEA ON CELEBRITY XCEL: Celebrity Cruises is enhancing its onboard cultural immersion with the launch of four new Mediterranean-inspired festivals aboard the Celebrity Xcel this summer. Taking place at The Bazaar—a space blending food, art, and entertainment with regional flair—these festivals will enrich sea days with authentic culinary experiences, artisanal markets, and local performances. Guests can enjoy the Opa Festival (celebrating Greek traditions), La Dolce Vita Festival (Italian romance and flavor), Salud Festival (Spanish rhythm and flair), and the Silk & Spice Festival (featuring Moroccan and Turkish influences). Additional highlights include the open-kitchen Mosaic with elevated regional dishes, the Spice casual dining venue, and destination-inspired cooking classes at Chef’s Studio.

CELESTYAL MOVES TO SUITEPAD TABLETS: Celestyal Cruises has introduced a digital upgrade aboard the Celestyal Journey, equipping every one of its 630 staterooms with interactive SuitePad tablets. This rollout marks a first in the cruise industry, as all guests now have access to a personalized in-cabin device that streamlines key services. With the tablet, passengers can conveniently order room service, make restaurant reservations, explore onboard activities, and even browse and shop from the boutique—all from the comfort of their cabin. This move not only replaces traditional paper materials but also aligns with the line’s focus on sustainability and guest satisfaction. Celestyal’s leadership views this tech-forward feature as a way to simplify the onboard experience while keeping guests more connected and informed throughout their voyage.