Weekly Cruise Industry Update: New Developments and Incidents
In this week’s cruise industry news, significant developments include Royal Caribbean’s commencement of construction on its fifth Icon-class ship, community opposition to a proposed cruise terminal in Tampa, Florida, and a new law in Mexico banning vaping devices for tourists, including cruisers. Stay informed by subscribing to Cruise Hive’s Daily Update for the latest news delivered to your inbox each morning.
High Winds Cause Norwegian Prima to Drift at Port Canaveral
On January 18, 2026, guests boarding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Prima at Port Canaveral experienced an unexpected situation when the ship began drifting away from its berth. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. due to strong wind gusts reaching up to 48 miles per hour, which snapped the lines securing the 143,535-gross-ton vessel at Cruise Terminal 5.
As passengers prepared for a seven-night Caribbean cruise, the crew issued a “Code Echo” announcement, signaling an emergency response to the drifting ship. Two tugboats were deployed to assist in stabilizing the vessel while crew members worked to reattach new lines. Fortunately, the ship did not completely detach from the pier, and there were no reported injuries. The incident did not affect the scheduled departure of the ship.
This event highlights the challenges cruise ships can face due to sudden weather changes, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols in maritime operations.
Tragic Incident on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas
Authorities in Singapore are investigating the death of a 27-year-old man found aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas on January 19, 2026. The ship had just returned to Marina Bay Cruise Terminal after a three-night getaway cruise to Penang Island, Malaysia, when the man was discovered in a guest cabin.
Details surrounding the man’s identity and the cause of death remain unclear, and officials have stated that foul play is not suspected. The incident occurred before 6 a.m., prompting a response team to be dispatched. The ship’s doctor pronounced the man dead shortly after. This unfortunate event caused a three-hour delay in the debarkation process for other passengers.
While the investigation continues, this incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with cruise travel, even in seemingly safe environments.
New Vaping Law in Mexico Affects Cruise Passengers
Travelers heading to Mexico should be aware of a new law that took effect on January 17, 2026, prohibiting the importation, sale, and distribution of vaping devices and e-cigarettes. This law poses significant implications for cruise passengers who use these products, as possession of such devices onshore could result in hefty fines or even imprisonment.
The legislation expands an existing smoking ban that began in 2023, making it illegal to smoke or vape in all public spaces, including beaches and parks—popular destinations for cruise excursions. While the law does not apply to vaping on cruise ships docked in Mexico, bringing a device ashore is considered illegal importation.
Violators could face fines up to $12,500 and potential jail time of up to eight years. Cruise lines are advising passengers to leave their vaping devices on board to avoid legal issues during their travels in Mexico.
Community Opposition to New Cruise Terminal in Tampa
In Tampa, Florida, local residents are actively opposing a proposed new cruise terminal that would accommodate larger ships. A petition on Change.org has garnered approximately 6,000 signatures, reflecting significant community concern over the project. The proposed site spans 328 acres adjacent to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which currently limits access for larger vessels.
Residents fear that the new terminal could threaten local ecosystems, exacerbate traffic congestion, and alter the character of the city. While no formal plans have been approved yet, the potential development has sparked considerable debate among community members and city officials.
This situation underscores the ongoing tension between tourism development and environmental and community concerns, a common theme in many coastal cities.
Royal Caribbean Begins Construction of Icon 5
Royal Caribbean has officially started construction on its fifth Icon-class ship, known as Icon 5, with the first steel cut at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland on January 19, 2026. This milestone event was attended by officials from Royal Caribbean and the shipyard, marking the beginning of hull construction.
Icon 5 will join the ranks of its predecessors, including Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, and Legend of the Seas, which is set to launch in summer 2026. The new ship will weigh 248,663 gross tons and accommodate 5,610 guests at double capacity. The keel laying ceremony, a significant next step in the construction process, is expected to occur approximately one year after the steel cutting.
Icon 5 is scheduled for delivery in summer 2028, further expanding Royal Caribbean’s fleet of innovative cruise ships.
More Cruise Industry Headlines
In addition to these stories, Norwegian Cruise Line plans to broadcast all FIFA World Cup 26 matches on its ships, Los Angeles is moving forward with plans for a new cruise terminal, and a Carnival Cruise Line ship is set to become the first to call at North African ports. For more updates and insights into the cruise industry, visit Cruise Hive.
