royal caribbean cruises from galveston

The best cruises from Galveston for every type of traveler

What are the best cruises from Galveston, Texas? I've been on nearly all the cruise ships that sail out of the fast-growing cruise port (and visited all the places they go), and I know which one I would pick: a seven-night sailing on Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Prima.

I'm a big fan of the 20-month-old Norwegian Prima's stylish design and upscale feel, and I love its luxurious Haven suite complex. It also offers a solid itinerary out of Galveston that visits several of my favorite ports in the Western Caribbean.

That said, a seven-night Norwegian Prima sailing out of Galveston isn't necessarily the best Galveston cruise for you.

Whether you'll have a better time on one of the other cruise ships that regularly sail out of Galveston will depend a lot on the type of traveler you are. The best ship for a family cruise out of Galveston might not be the top pick for a couples cruise or girlfriend getaway.

Nearly a dozen ships currently set sail from Texas. Here we list our top picks for the best cruises from Galveston for five different types of travelers.

Best for families: Harmony of the Seas

Looking for the best family cruise from Galveston? It's hard to go wrong with a sailing on Royal Caribbean 's giant Harmony of the Seas.

Designed specifically to appeal to families, the world's fourth-largest cruise vessel offers more family-friendly activity zones than just about any other cruise ship at sea.

Thanks partly to its enormous size — it's 18 decks high and nearly 1,200 feet long — the 5,479-passenger Harmony of the Seas has room for three separate main pool areas, a water park, a kiddie splash zone, surfing simulators, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and even a zip line. And that's just on its top decks.

Inside Harmony of the Seas, you'll find all sorts of family attractions, including counselor-staffed play areas for kids, a teen club and an indoor ice skating rink. The ship also has lots of family-friendly performances, such as ice skating shows at the rink and acrobatic and diving performances at an outdoor "Aquatheater." At the back of the ship, a New Jersey boardwalk-themed fun zone features rock climbing walls and a hand-carved carousel.

In short, whether you have toddlers in tow or command a troop of teens and tweens, you'll find all sorts of activities to keep them squealing with delight — more than on any other ship that sails out of Galveston, including Disney Cruise Line's family-focused Disney Magic.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cruise ships and itineraries

Harmony of the Seas sails out of Galveston every Sunday on seven-night voyages to the Western Caribbean. The ship stops at Roatan, Honduras, and Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico.

Harmony of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean's groundbreaking Oasis Class vessels , which are among the biggest and most amenity-filled ships in the world.

In addition to Harmony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean operates two smaller vessels out of Galveston: the 3,344-passenger Mariner of the Seas and the 2,110-passenger Jewel of the Seas. The former ship mostly sails four- and five-night trips to Mexico, while the latter vessel sails longer voyages to the Southern and Western Caribbean.

Best for Disney fans: Disney Magic

As noted above, our pick for the best family cruises out of Galveston are the sailings available on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas. But we say that with one big caveat. If your family is Disney-obsessed and you can't imagine a vacation that isn't infused to the extreme with all things Disney, there is only one choice for your Galveston-based cruise: a voyage on Disney Magic .

Based in Galveston seasonally from November to March, Disney Magic offers the best cruises out of the city for Disney fans. It is, for the record, the only Disney Cruise Line ship that sails from Galveston.

Disney Magic isn't a new ship. It dates to 1998 and is the oldest cruise ship regularly sailing out of Galveston. That said, it still feels modern thanks to major makeovers in recent years.

One overhaul to Disney Magic not too long ago brought such cutting-edge features as the AquaDunk — a 37-foot-tall body slide that careens over the side of the vessel — and a new outdoor kiddie fun zone called AquaLab.

Disney Magic is also home to multiple pool areas and indoor children's zones that cover almost an entire deck, plus multiple themed restaurants that Disney fans will love. (In Disney Cruise Line tradition, passengers — and their waiters — rotate each night among three main restaurants.) The ship also has a large showroom for nightly Disney-themed shows.

Like all Disney ships, Disney Magic has many cabins with split bathrooms — a boon for families. That's not something you'll find on any of the other Galveston-based cruise vessels.

If you've tried Disney's newer Disney Wish or two Dream Class ships (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream), you will notice that the 1,754-passenger Disney Magic is noticeably smaller — about 42% smaller than Disney Wish and 35% smaller than the Dream Class ships. That results in fewer and smaller attractions than the other vessels. On the flip side, it has a much more intimate feel on board.

Related: The 3 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

Disney Magic sails a mix of four- to six-night voyages from Galveston to Mexico. Four-night voyages typically visit Progreso, Mexico, while five-night sailings add a stop in Cozumel. Six-night sailings typically visit Cozumel and Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands.

Fares for off-peak sailings on Disney Magic often start at more than $1,000 per person for a four-night trip — significantly higher on a per-night basis than the lowest-cost sailings on many of the other ships sailing out of Galveston.

In other words, you'll pay a premium for that Disney magic.

Best for budget travelers: Carnival Breeze

Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Breeze is the Galveston-based ship to pick when you're looking for a quick and affordable getaway — something that isn't a big commitment and won't break the bank.

Based in Galveston year-round, the 12-year-old vessel operates short four- and five-night voyages to the Western Caribbean that are often on sale for under $500 per person. For off-peak travel, we sometimes see five-night sailings for sale for around $400 per person — or just $80 a night. This is a third of the cost of similar five-night sailings on Disney Magic.

Remember, the rates for Carnival Breeze mentioned above are not just for your room but for meals on the ship, too.

For would-be Galveston cruisers, Carnival Breeze serves as a sort of "test the port" ship. Its short sailings and low pricing mean you won't lose a lot of time or money if you don't love the experience. It caters heavily to first-time cruisers, as well as Texas locals and Southerners who can book on short notice and drive to the port for a quick escape.

One of three ships in the line's Dream Class that date to the late 2000s and early 2010s, the 3,690-passenger Carnival Breeze is no longer the newest or snazziest ship in the Carnival fleet. At around 130,000 tons, it's about 29% smaller than Carnival's newer Excel Class ships and has fewer bars, restaurants and entertainment spaces.

Related: The 8 types of Carnival Cruise Line ships, explained

That said, Carnival Breeze still has a huge amount to offer for all sorts of travelers, from couples to families with kids. The ship was, notably, the first Carnival ship to feature a 4D "thrill theater" and one of the first Carnival ships with a ropes course — attractions that appeal heavily to teens and tweens.

Carnival Breeze also offers a water park with waterslides on its top decks, a miniature golf course, a sports court for basketball and volleyball, and multiple pools.

Interior venues on Carnival Breeze include a comedy club, a piano bar, a casino and a showroom for big production shows. The dining options are similar to what you'll find on many Carnival ships, including an extra-charge steakhouse and Italian eatery, Cucina Del Capitano, as well as no-extra-charge main restaurants. It also has a sushi restaurant and a version of Carnival's Caribbean-inspired watering hole, RedFrog Pub.

Most Carnival Breeze sailings out of Galveston stop at Cozumel, with some adding a stop at Costa Maya and Progreso as well.

Carnival has two other vessels based year-round in Galveston: Carnival Jubilee and Carnival Dream. Both ships operate longer, generally more expensive sailings. Carnival Jubilee mostly sails seven-night trips out of Galveston, while Carnival Dream alternates between six- and eight-night voyages out of the Texas port.

Best for luxury lovers: Norwegian Prima

None of the luxury-focused cruise lines, such as Silversea Cruises or Seabourn Cruise Line , sail out of Galveston. Still, you can get a luxury cruise experience on a voyage from Galveston by sailing on the one mainstream vessel based in the city that has a separate "ship-within-a-ship" luxury zone: Norwegian Cruise Line 's new Norwegian Prima .

Hands down, the 3,099-passenger ship offers the best Galveston cruises for luxury lovers.

Unveiled in 2022, Norwegian Prima was the first of a new class of Norwegian vessel that the line designed to be "elevated," in its words, as compared to earlier Norwegian ships. That is, it was designed to be more upscale.

The high-end turn included loading Norwegian Prima with an unusually large variety of suites (13 categories in all), including what the line said was the largest three-bedroom suites of any recently unveiled cruise vessel. If it's swanky digs you're after (and you have the money to spend), you'll find plenty of options on this ship.

Notably, the entire back of Norwegian Prima is devoted to an upscale luxury enclave for well-heeled travelers called The Haven. Rising eight decks high, it's home to 107 of the above-mentioned suites, a sprawling private indoor lounge area, private outdoor lounge and pool areas, and a private restaurant — all exclusively for the use of those who pay up for one of its suites.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Outside of The Haven, the entire ship has a more elegant feel than you'll find on other Norwegian ships. It has an atmosphere more in line with the ships in the fleets of Norwegian's higher-end sister brands, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises — albeit on a bigger scale.

Alas, Norwegian Prima only is based in Galveston seasonally for the winter, typically from January to March. For 2025, it'll offer seven-night sailings to the Western Caribbean with calls in Roatan, Costa Maya, Cozumel and Harvest Caye, Belize. It'll also operate two longer 14-night Caribbean sailings.

Best for retirees: Regal Princess

Looking for a cruise out of Galveston that isn't full of families with children? Look no further than the sailings out of the city on Princess Cruises ' Regal Princess.

Unlike the other major cruise ships that sail out of Galveston each year — operated by family-focused Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian and Disney — Regal Princess wasn't built with families in mind as the core customer. As is the case with all Princess ships, it's geared toward middle-aged and older travelers without kids, including lots of retirees.

Notably, the 3,600-passenger Regal Princess lacks nearly all the gee-whiz attractions for families found on other ships that sail out of Galveston. You won't find big waterslides, kiddie splash zones, zip lines or go-kart tracks on this ship.

For the most part, the top decks of Regal Princess only offer pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for Princess ships. As a result, it draws far fewer families than the vessels above and caters more to an older crowd of mostly couples.

Related: Best cruises for seniors who love to travel by sea

Regal Princess is based in Galveston on a seasonal basis from October to March. It operates some of the longest sailings from the Texas port, including 10- and 11-night trips to Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Honduras, Belize and Mexico. It also occasionally offers a 12-night sailing to the Southern Caribbean. These sailings generally appeal to a retired crowd because they require a long time away from home.

The shortest sailings that the 11-year-old Princess ship operates out of Galveston are six nights in length.

Bottom line

Galveston offers a relatively wide range of cruise ships and itinerary choices. Five different cruise lines currently sail four- to 12-night Western Caribbean voyages and visit ports in Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. A sixth line — MSC Cruises — will be starting up cruises from Galveston in 2025.

What is the best cruise from Galveston for you? That'll depend on your personal interests and travel style, as there are cruises from Galveston that appeal to everyone, including family travelers, budget travelers and retirees.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Cruises from Galveston, Texas: Gateway to Caribbean Adventures

Plan your ideal Western Caribbean voyage with ease. Discover the best times to cruise from Galveston with our month-by-month weather guide.

Category: Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the seas: a royal caribbean marvel setting sail from galveston.

Essential Information about Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the seas: an overview.

Harmony of the Seas stands as a testament to Royal Caribbean’s commitment to innovation and excellence in cruising. This magnificent ship boasts an impressive size, offering guests a spacious and elegant environment. With its captivating design, panoramic ocean views, and diverse range of onboard activities, Harmony of the Seas ensures an unforgettable journey for every passenger.

Accommodation Types

Onboard Harmony of the Seas, a variety of accommodation options cater to different preferences and budgets:

• Luxurious Suites : These spacious and elegantly appointed suites provide guests with upscale amenities and exclusive services for a truly indulgent experience.
• Balcony Staterooms : Featuring private balconies, these staterooms offer guests their own space to enjoy the breathtaking sea views.
• Oceanview Staterooms : With large windows, these rooms allow passengers to admire the ocean’s beauty right from their stateroom.
• Interior Staterooms : Efficiently designed, these cabins provide a cozy and affordable option, perfect for guests who prefer a comfortable yet budget-friendly stay.

Booking and Planning Your Cruise

Planning your cruise on Harmony of the Seas is an exciting and effortless process. The ship offers a range of itineraries and packages that cater to different types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure, a romantic escape, or a solo expedition, you’ll find an array of options complete with unique onboard activities and shore excursions.

Onboard Experience on Harmony of the Seas

Amenities and facilities.

Harmony of the Seas is equipped with an array of amenities and facilities designed for entertainment, relaxation, and adventure. Guests can enjoy luxurious pools, an exhilarating water park, and a tranquil spa. The ship also features diverse lounges, bars, and entertainment venues to suit every mood and preference.

Dining and Cuisine

Dining aboard Harmony of the Seas offers a journey through global flavors and culinary mastery. The ship boasts an impressive selection of dining options, from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants and specialty venues. Each dining experience provides a unique atmosphere and menu, catering to all tastes and dietary requirements.

Entertainment and Activities

Entertainment on Harmony of the Seas is varied and exciting. Guests can enjoy Broadway-caliber shows, live music performances, comedy acts, and a vibrant casino. The ship’s daily schedule is filled with activities and interactive experiences, ensuring endless fun and engagement for all passengers.

Health, Wellness, and Fitness

Prioritize your health and well-being aboard Harmony of the Seas with top-notch fitness and wellness facilities. The state-of-the-art fitness center, sports courts, and various exercise classes cater to fitness enthusiasts, while the spa offers a peaceful environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Harmony of the Seas Schedule

Sailing on Harmony of the Seas from Galveston with Royal Caribbean promises a journey filled with extraordinary experiences, luxurious amenities, and unforgettable moments. Before setting sail, take the opportunity to explore the historic charm and scenic beauty of Galveston Island , adding another layer of excitement to your cruise adventure. Discover the latest itineraries and special offers for Harmony of the Seas. For more information on upcoming cruises, explore the Galveston Cruise Ship Schedule for 2024 and 2025 to plan your next spectacular sea voyage.

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Best Cruises from Galveston

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Disney Magic

The 2,713-passenger Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet (it first launched in 1998). It was last refurbished in May 2023, when it received updates like a "Soul"-themed lounge, concierge-level upgrades and a new Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Stor y live show. The ship also features family favorites such as the AquaDuck waterslide, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique dress-up shop and Edge, an interactive game center for tweens.

Disney Magic features diverse entertainment, including live shows, an open-air Wide World of Sports deck, three pools and a splash area for children younger than 3. Tweens and teens can enjoy games, music and theme nights at Edge (ages 11 to 14) or Vibe (ages 14 to 17). When it comes to dining, the ship offers seven eateries, including an adults-only specialty restaurant and buffet options. Recent cruisers gave the food quality mixed reviews.

In terms of lodging, 70% of cabins offer ocean views or verandas. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, sitting areas and bathrooms with separate showers and tubs. Suites include extra perks such as concierge service and media libraries. Past cruisers noted that the service on this ship is up to Disney's standards, but so is the price tag.

Disney Magic sails from Galveston, Texas ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida ; Port Canaveral, Florida; and  San Juan, Puerto Rico . It visits destinations across the Bahamas , the Caribbean and Mexico.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once per sailing, guests are invited to watch Tangled: The Musical in the Walt Disney Theater. This Broadway-style show retells the story of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider with three new original songs, puppets, and beautiful costumes. This show is very popular, so it's best to get to the theater about an hour before the show starts to get a good seat. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Allure of the Seas

Allure of the Seas, unveiled in 2010, is among the largest cruise ships in the world. It carries 5,496 passengers at double occupancy, 6,826 guests at maximum capacity and a whopping 2,054 crew members. The ship is scheduled to complete a $100 million refurbishment in April 2025. 

Along with signature line amenities like rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with a variety of activities, shows and dining options. Other standout features include a zip line that descends 10 decks, two surf simulators and a science lab. Plus, with 23 dining options – including a Starbucks at sea – every member of the family will be satisfied.

In terms of lodging, about 65% of cabins feature balconies, and all staterooms are appointed with TVs and minifridges. Interior staterooms are the most economical option, but those who splurge on Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service. Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the outrageous capacity of the ship, but some recent cruisers praise the nonstop activity and entertainment. 

For Bahamas and other Caribbean sailings, Allure of the Seas departs from Miami; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Galveston , Texas. For Europe voyages, it departs from Barcelona and Rome.

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Want to try the FlowRider (a surf simulator exclusively found on Royal Caribbean ships) without embarrassing yourself? For a small fee, you can reserve a private lesson with one of Royal Caribbean’s pros. –  Skye Sherman, Contributor

Harmony of the Seas

Welcoming 5,479 guests at double occupancy and 6,687 passengers maximum, Harmony of the Seas is among the largest cruise ships in the world. Launched in 2016 and tuned up in 2021, the ship features Royal Caribbean staples like surf simulators and rock climbing walls, as well as innovative amenities like the Ultimate Abyss (a 10-story slide) and three multistory waterslides. Plus, while younger passengers play in the arcade or at age-appropriate clubs, adults can relax at the spa or sip cocktails at multiple bars and lounges. There are 2,200 crew members on board. 

After working up an appetite, guests can choose from 17 dining options. Past cruisers especially praised the multitude of specialty restaurants, which range from Mexican to Japanese fare and require reservations and an additional fee.

When it comes to lodging, Harmony of the Seas offers a wide variety of cabin categories, with more than 70% of cabins featuring balconies. While Interior staterooms are the most economical choice, those looking for a little more space and luxury should consider upgrading to a Suite, which range from Junior Suites to four-bedroom Villa Suites. While all cabins offer flat-screen TVs and minibars, suites include access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

Harmony of the Seas sails from  Galveston, Texas , to destinations throughout the Caribbean. It also completes trans-Atlantic voyages. 

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you're cruising on a health kick, you can get protein shakes and fresh juices at Vitality Café (found on Oasis-class ships). –  Skye Sherman, Contributor

Regal Princess

Unique features – including a glass walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship – make Regal Princess stand out among competitors. Guests can expect quality service on the 3,560-passenger (double occupancy), 1,346-crew-member ship, which debuted in 2014 and was most recently updated in 2022. The refurbishment upgraded the elevators and lobby, replaced tubs and shower trays in the bathrooms, made updates to the marble, tile and other materials throughout the ship and enhanced the pool bar. 

Regal Princess offers plenty of onboard activities, from an indoor driving range to a photography studio to educational programming through Discovery at SEA events. While adults sip cocktails at one of the onboard lounges, kids and teens can enjoy age-appropriate youth clubs. Come mealtime, the whole gang can choose between the main dining rooms, a number of specialty restaurants (including Sabatini's Italian Trattoria) and multiple laid-back eateries.

All cabins come appointed with minifridges and flat-screen TVs. While Interior cabins measure between 158 and 162 square feet, larger Balcony staterooms occupy 214 to 222 square feet. The ship also features Mini-Suite category cabins, which offer two flat-screen TVs, bathtubs and furnished balconies. Each guest aboard Regal Princess receives an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Regal Princess sails to the Caribbean, Europe and beyond.

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you're a foodie, the Caymus Vineyards Winemaker Dinner and Chef's Table dinner are worth booking. However, these exclusive experiences can only be booked onboard (and fill up quickly), so make a beeline for Guest Services or ring the ship's onboard DINE telephone line as soon as you embark. –  Skye Sherman, Contributor

Mariner of the Seas

Introduced in 2003 and overhauled in mid-2018, Mariner of the Seas features passenger favorites like the Escape Room, the Izumi Japanese restaurant and a surf simulator. During the ship's refurbishment, Royal Caribbean also added 100 new staterooms, updated cabins and public spaces and added fan-favorite restaurant Jamie's Italian by chef Jamie Oliver.

Though the large ship features a 1-to-3 crew-to-passenger ratio, recent cruisers said the vessel still maintains a high level of customer service. Mariner of the Seas carries 3,114 guests at double occupancy and 4,252 passengers at maximum capacity. 

When it comes to dining, the ship offers 11 venues, including a multilevel main dining room. The ship's 10 bars and lounges and onboard entertainment, which includes Broadway-style shows, earn a consistent nod of approval from past cruisers. Kids have plenty of age-appropriate entertainment, too, including youth programs and teen lounges. Mariner of the Seas touts three pools and six whirlpools. These areas of the ship attract a high concentration of children.

Past travelers were generally complimentary of the staterooms. Similar to its sister ships, Mariner of the Seas offers four stateroom categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. All staterooms include flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi accessibility. 

Mariner of the Seas departs from Galveston, Texas, for sailings throughout the Caribbean.

Carnival Miracle

Like other Carnival ships, Carnival Miracle boasts activities and entertainment geared toward travelers of all ages. Thanks to a renovation in 2020, the ship features upgrades like Guy's Burger Joint, WaterWorks, RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Cantina and more. The ship also received a minor refresh to interior and exterior spaces in 2022. Carnival Miracle carries 2,124 passengers at single occupancy, 2,680 passengers at double occupancy and 934 crew members.

Even with the added venues, a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio ensures service is a priority. And compared to other Carnival ships, Miracle offers a higher percentage of cabins with ocean views. While Interior staterooms provide more wallet-friendly digs, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category cabins offer more space and scenery. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service.

During days at sea, grown-ups can enjoy poolside lounging or the adults-only Serenity Retreat, while kids ages 2 to 17 can play at age-specific programs.  There are also entertainment options like the Punchliner Comedy Club, the SkyBox Sports Bar and the Seuss at Sea program. Once the family works up an appetite, they'll have their pick of the main dining room, the Lido Marketplace, a specialty steakhouse (for an extra fee) and more.

Carnival Miracle departs from Galveston, Texas ; Rome and  San Francisco  to destinations in the Caribbean, the Panama Canal,  Hawaii ,  Europe and Alaska . 

Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima first set sail in October 2022 and can hold 3,099 guests and 1,506 crew members. The latest ship in the fleet includes many of the cruiser-favorite amenities and activities that are standard across Norwegian , plus a few more exciting additions.

Accommodations include Studios (perfect for solo travelers), and Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, Club Balcony Suite and Suite staterooms. The Haven aboard the Norwegian Prima has been redesigned, with more spacious suites, upscale decor and The Haven's private sun deck. Outside their rooms, travelers will find plenty of dining options, including pub fare at The Local Bar & Grill, classic fare at the main dining room Hudson's, fine dining at The Commodore Room, international cuisine at Indulge Food Hall, casual eats at the Surfside Café & Grill and 24-hour room service, in addition to several specialty dining venues.

As far as activities go, cruisers can enjoy mini-golf, a racecar track, the water park and waterslides, plus games like darts, shuffleboard and pickleball. Those looking to relax can snag a lounge chair by the pool or book a treatment at the spa. Other options for fun include a casino, numerous bars and lounges, and a theater to enjoy musicals, concerts and The Price Is Right Live.

This Norwegian ship offers itineraries through northern Europe, the Baltic, the Greek Isles and the Caribbean in the coming years. The ship also completes transatlantic voyages.

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape debuted in 2015 and was refurbished in 2022. It carries 4,218 passengers and 1,733 crew members. Highlights include the District Brew House and Norwegian's wine bar, The Cellars. Guests can choose from a total of 16 dining venues, including 10 specialty restaurants.

When it comes to activities, the ship appeals to multiple generations. Children can play in age-appropriate clubs or in the kids aqua park, while adults can sip cocktails or get treatments at the Mandara Spa. Nighttime entertainment includes live musicals, acts at the Headliners Comedy Club and table games at the casino.

Accommodations are just as diverse, ranging from Studio staterooms designed for solo travelers to Inside, Oceanview and Balcony cabins. There are also larger Club Balcony Suites, as well as The Haven (exclusive cabins that offer elite perks like 24-hour butler service and access to a private sundeck). 

Norwegian Escape departs from Miami , Orlando ,  New York City ,  Rome , Barcelona and Venice , Italy for sailings in Bermuda , Canada, the Caribbean and Europe.

Carnival Breeze

The 3,690- double occupancy passenger Carnival Breeze was introduced in 2012 and last updated in 2017. The ship carries 1,386 crew members. On board, cruisers will find outdoor activities like a water park and a SportsSquare with games like mini-golf, as well as supervised (and free) age-appropriate programs for kids and teens. While the younger passengers play, adults can relax at the adults-only Serenity retreat, get treatments at the Cloud 9 Spa and sip cocktails at one of the ship's bars. 

As far as dining goes, cruisers can choose between several food options, including sushi, Mexican, 24/7 pizza and more. Guy's Burger Joint and Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, in partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, are passenger favorites. Nighttime entertainment ranges from karaoke to shows at the Punchliner Comedy Club.

Carnival Breeze offers a variety of cabin categories, all of which include flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. The ship maintains a nearly 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. While some recent cruisers appreciated the family atmosphere, others were disappointed by long lines and wait times during dinner service. 

Carnival Breeze cruises to the Caribbean from Galveston, Texas . 

Norwegian Jade

The 2,352-passenger Norwegian Jade was renovated in 2022. The updated ship is geared toward a diverse set of ages and traveler types. Plus, with 1,037 crew members, the service exceeded recent cruisers' expectations.

Aboard Jade, guests can choose from a spectrum of lodging options. While Inside cabins range from 138 to 278 square feet, the ship's Haven suites and villas measure between 440 and 4,719 square feet. These larger accommodations feature living and dining areas, balconies and private access to an exclusive courtyard.

Norwegian Jade features 12 restaurants (including six specialty eateries) and a variety of bars, lounges and nightclubs. During the day, guests can take advantage of a wide array of activities, including a variety of sports, a spa and age-appropriate youth clubs. 

Norwegian Jade sails throughout ports in Tampa , Florida, San Diego , Vancouver, Alaska, Europe, the Panama Canal and the Caribbean.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise alter itineraries to avoid Hurricane Helene

( This story was updated to add new information. )

Cruise lines are changing Caribbean itineraries in an effort to avoid Hurricane Helene .

The storm, already a Category 2 hurricane, was forecast to strengthen before making landfall in the U.S. on Thursday. "A catastrophic and deadly storm surge is likely along portions of the Florida Big Bend coast, where inundation could reach as high as 20 feet above ground level, along with the destructive waves," the National Hurricane Center said Thursday morning. The storm could also bring "life-threatening storm surge" to the rest of the Florida Peninsula's west coast, damaging hurricane-force winds are expected in parts of northern Florida and southern Georgia.

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Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Paradise ship, which left from Tampa, Florida , on Saturday, replaced a planned visit to Cozumel, Mexico, on Tuesday with Costa Maya.

Carnival Valor, meanwhile, scrapped its scheduled stop in Cozumel on Tuesday. The sailing also departed Saturday from New Orleans, Louisiana. Carnival Horizon canceled a visit to Grand Cayman on Wednesday and will visit Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic on Thursday rather than Cozumel. The ship left from Miami on Sunday.

“As the safety of our guests and crew is our priority, we will continue to watch the storm and factor in guidance from the National Hurricane Center, U.S. Coast Guard and the local port authorities to provide timely updates as more information becomes available,” the cruise line said in a statement.

Carnival advised passengers with cruises in the projected path of the storm to keep an eye on their emails and sign up for text message alerts .

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: Here's what to do next

Five Royal Caribbean International itineraries have been impacted so far, according to the line’s parent company Royal Caribbean Group :

• Independence of the Seas, which departed from Miami on Saturday, swapped Tuesday’s visit to Cozumel with Nassau in the Bahamas. 
• Mariner of the Seas, which also left Saturday from Galveston, Texas , also skipped its Tuesday stop in Cozumel, instead spending the day at sea.
• Serenade of the Seas, which left Tampa on Sunday , swapped its Tuesday and Wednesday stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya for Freeport and Nassau. The ship will also return to Tampa on Sunday, two days later than planned.
• Wonder of the Seas will scrap most of its planned stops, skipping Cozumel, Roatan in Honduras, and Costa Maya. The ship, which left from Florida’s Port Canaveral on Sunday, will add stops in St. Thomas and St. Maarten instead.
• Grandeur of the Seas will visit Nassau and Freeport in place of planned Wednesday and Thursday stops in Costa Maya and Cozumel. The cruise departed from Tampa on Monday.

MSC Cruises’ MSC Seascape ship, which sailed from Miami on Saturday, also changed several ports of call, according to a spokesperson. The ship visited Grand Turk in Turks and Caicos on Monday in place of Falmouth, Jamaica, and replaced its Tuesday visit to George Town, Grand Cayman, with Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. The cruise will also visit Nassau on Thursday rather than spending the day at sea.

MSC Seashore, which left from Port Canaveral on Sunday, will return on Friday, one day later than scheduled. The ship's following sailing will be shortened by one day.

Disney Cruise Line's Disney Fantasy also canceled its Tuesday call at George Town, replacing it with a sea day. The ship left from Port Canaveral on Saturday.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise alter itineraries to avoid Hurricane Helene

8 - Day Eastern Caribbean from Galveston, TX

Cruise itinerary.

Day 1: Galveston

Day 2: Fun Day at Sea

Day 3: key west, day 4: celebration key, day 5: half moon cay, day 6: nassau.

Day 7 & 8: Fun Day at Sea

Day 9: galveston.

Get to Know Carnival Dream

It's one thing to be fun, but it's another thing to be first. Carnival Dream was at the forefront of a recent wave of amazingly innovative and fun Carnival ships. As the genesis of the Dream class, Carnival Dream set the direction for the ships that followed in her footsteps — first Carnival Magic and then Carnival Breeze. But back to Carnival Dream: the ship itself is a unique experience with the way-fun RedFrog Rum Bar ® and the very cool BlueIguana Tequila Bar ™ . Get your appetite ready, because you're gonna need it. Carnival Dream features two dual-level dining rooms, a gourmet steakhouse and dedicated sushi spot Bonsai Sushi ™ . It's also got a full menu of our latest and greatest casual spots for a bite: BlueIguana Cantina ™ , Pizzeria del Capitano, Guy's Burger Joint ™ and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse ™ . (That's Guy as in Guy Fieri, by the way — so you know the food's delish.) Carnival Dream also features the borderline-magical Alchemy Bar ® and Ocean Plaza, which combines tasty treats with perhaps even tastier entertainment. Entertainment options are all up and down the ship, and so is soaking-wet fun, from the heart-racing waterslide action at Carnival WaterWorks ™ to the soul-soothing Thalassotherapy pool at the Cloud 9 Spa ™ . Despite its name, Carnival Dream is definitely a reality. Can't believe it? Pinch yourself... and book your dream cruise today.

Onboard Activities

Onboard Dining

change your itinerary

Cruise Lines Make Further Itinerary Changes Due to Helene

• September 25, 2024

Cruise lines are adjusting itineraries due to the current path of Helene, which is impacting the Gulf of Mexico.

According to the Weather Channel, the storm is expected to reach major hurricane intensity ahead of landfall late Thursday in Florida.

Carnival Cruise Line changed itineraries for five ships, including the Carnival Paradise and the Carnival Valor, which canceled visits to Cozumel on Tuesday.

The Carnival Breeze also canceled a visit to Cozumel on Wednesday, while the Carnival Breeze had to cancel visits to Grand Cayman and Cozumel.

With Jacksonville and Tampa expected to be impacted by Helene’s landfall, the upcoming cruises of the Carnival Elation and the Carnival Paradise may be adjusted.

Royal Caribbean International is changing the itineraries of at least five ships, such as the Wonder of the Seas. Instead of sailing to the Western Caribbean this week, the vessel is offering an alternative itinerary in the Eastern Caribbean.

The Serenade of the Seas is also being rerouted from the Western Caribbean. Sailing from Tampa, the ship is now offering a cruise to the Bahamas.

Similar changes were also made to the itineraries of the Mariner of the Seas, the Grandeur of the Seas, and the Independence of the Seas, which canceled planned ports of call in the Western Caribbean.

Margaritaville at Sea’s Islander canceled a visit to Key West on Wednesday and may also have its return to Tampa, which is scheduled for Sept. 29, impacted.

Sailing from Port Canaveral, the MSC Seashore is set to return to Port Canaveral later than initially scheduled due to Helene.

According to a statement shared with guests onboard, the MSC Cruises vessel is only expected to return to its homeport one day later, on Sept. 27.

Offering a seven-night cruise from Port Canaveral, Disney Cruise Line’s Fantasy also reportedly canceled a visit to Grand Cayman on Tuesday.

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Hurricane Helene prompts mass travel changes from airlines, cruises

Delta and more have sent passengers updates on flights impacted by the storm.

Hurricane Helene has prompted an array of weather alerts from airlines to cruises to ensure travelers can safely avoid areas where the Category 2 storm is expected to hit.

Airlines and cruises with routes in the region began taking preventative measures earlier this week and sent more updates about the potential impacts to itineraries on Thursday as the storm barrels towards Florida and the Southeast.

The National Hurricane Center said there is "significant additional strengthening expected before landfall" on Thursday morning, adding "there is danger of life-threatening storm surge along the entire west coast of the Florida Peninsula and Florida Big Bend."

See below for a full list of airports, cruise ship ports and other areas that have been impacted.

Air travel impacted ahead of Hurricane Helene: Airport closures, airline changes

Nearly 900 flights across the country have already been canceled due to Helene, according to Flight Aware , with the biggest impacts seen in Tampa, Fort Myers, and Atlanta as of time of publication.

While all airlines are required to offer a full refund to customers if a flight is canceled or significantly delayed due to reasons within the airline’s control, per the Department of Transportation, that rule does not encompass weather-related delays or cancellations.

Florida airport closures

As of time of publication, three major Florida airports have announced temporary closures due to the storm.

Tampa International Airport suspended all commercial and cargo operations at 2 a.m. Thursday and said it will remain closed to the public until it can assess any damage after the storm.

Tallahassee International Airport and St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport have also closed and officials at each said they will be closed to the public until damage assessments are completed after the hurricane.

Other regional airports including Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport near Panama City Beach, Orlando International Airport and Jacksonville International Airport are currently open but have advised all travelers to check with airlines directly for the latest flight status and information.

American Airlines

American issued a travel alert for the Gulf of Mexico that affects 23 airports, with 16 of those in Florida, including Tampa and Sarasota.

For passengers who bought tickets of any fare class before Sept. 23 for travel between Sept. 24-27, the change fee will be waived. Changes must be booked by Sept. 27, and travel must be for the same travel origin and destination.

Delta Air Lines

The Atlanta-based carrier shared a weather advisory for Hurricane Helene due to forecasted path, explaining that "travel may be impacted to/from/through" 26 destinations.

"Check flight status frequently for up-to-the-minute information about your flight plans, or get updates sent directly to your mobile device or by email with One-Time Notification," the airline stated.

As of time of publication, the advisory covers 12 airports in Florida, including Jacksonville, Sarasota and Tampa, as well as select airports in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Mexico and Cuba.

Travelers scheduled to fly through one of the listed airports through 27 can rebook tickets by Monday, Sept. 30.

JetBlue Airways

JetBlue announced in a travel alert that flights to multiple Florida destinations have been canceled on Thursday and Friday: Tallahassee and Tampa, as a result of the airport closures, as well as Fort Myers. The airline also canceled all Sarasota flights for Thursday.

All JetBlue flights to Orlando and Jacksonville are operating at this time, as well as Atlanta, Savannah and Charleston.

The airline said it will waive change, cancel fees, and fare differences for customers with travel on Sept. 26-27. Flights can be rebooked by Wednesday, Oct. 2.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines issued the travel advisory "based on the forecasted weather conditions" where the carrier's "scheduled service may be disrupted."

It lists 10 Florida airports where scheduled service may be disrupted through Friday, plus Atlanta, Charleston, Charlotte, Greenville/Spartanburg, Myrtle Beach, Nashville and Savannah.

United Airlines

The Chicago-based airline listed eight airports in Florida, plus one in Cuba and three more in Mexico, that would be impacted.

Passengers who purchased a plane ticket before Monday, Sept. 23, for travel on Tuesday through Friday, Sept. 24-27, to, from, or through any of the affected airports can rebook without a change fee for travel through Friday, Oct. 4.

Frontier Airlines

The budget carrier issued a travel alert for passengers traveling in or out of six Florida airports on both Thursday and Friday, Sept. 26-27.

Royal Caribbean, Carnival and MSC Cruises change course, update itineraries

The sunshine state and its ports are at the center of the cruise industry, accounting for nearly 60% of all U.S. embarkations, according to the Cruise Lines International Association , where multiple sailing itineraries have been impacted by Hurricane Helene.

One ship is currently stuck at sea, while two more are skipping planned stops and multiple ports, including Port Canaveral, have closed as a result of the inclement weather.

Royal Caribbean

Five ships routes have been impacted, according to a travel update from the cruise line’s parent company Royal Caribbean Group.

Serenade of the Seas, which disembarked from Tampa on Sunday, changed both its Tuesday and Wednesday stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya for Freeport and Nassau, Bahamas. The ship is now set to return to Tampa on Sunday, two days later than originally scheduled delaying the next scheduled voyage that was originally set to leave on Friday.

"Due to Hurricane Helene and the planned closure of Port Tampa, our previous sailing will be delayed in returning," the cruise line stated . "As a result, our sailing will now depart on Sunday, Sept. 29 at 4:00pm. We kindly ask that you arrive during the arrival window you originally selected for an on-time departure."

Independence of the Seas departed Miami on Saturday and changed Tuesday’s planned stop in Cozumel to Nassau, Bahamas.

Mariner of the Seas, which left Saturday from Galveston, Texas, also swapped out Cozumel on Tuesday for a day at sea.

Wonder of the Seas will scrap most of its planned stops, skipping Cozumel, Roatan in Honduras, and Costa Maya. The ship, which left from Florida’s Port Canaveral on Sunday, will add stops in St. Thomas and St. Maarten instead.

Grandeur of the Seas will visit Nassau and Freeport in place of planned Wednesday and Thursday stops in Costa Maya and Cozumel. The cruise departed from Tampa on Monday.

Carnival Cruise Line

Both Tampa and Jacksonville ports closed Wednesday evening ahead of Hurricane Helene's projected landfall.

"Our Fleet Operations Center in Miami continues to actively monitor Hurricane Helene, which is now entering the Gulf of Mexico," the company said on its website . "The safety of our guests and crew remains our priority and our ships are sailing a safe distance from the storm."

Given the forecasted track of Helene over the next few days, Carnival announced that eight ships' itineraries are currently under watch. Click here for full details and planned changes.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Fantasy left from Port Canaveral on Saturday and canceled its Tuesday call at George Town to replace it with a sea day.

The Disney Wish is the only ship that's currently impacted by the storm, a representative for Disney Cruise Lines confirmed to ABC News.

The ship was originally scheduled to arrive on Friday morning at Port Canaveral, which is currently "closed and has ceased all Port operations," with its next departure that was slated for Friday afternoon.

Now, the Disney Wish will arrive later than originally scheduled, the DCL representative said.

Disney is the parent company of ABC News.

An earlier version of this story was originally published on September 27, 2024.

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Hurricane Helene prompts mass travel changes from airlines, cruises | Here's what you need to know

Delta and more have sent passengers updates on flights impacted by the storm.

TAMPA -- Hurricane Helene prompted an array of weather alerts from airlines to cruises to ensure travelers can safely avoid areas where the storm is expected to impact.

Airlines and cruises with routes in the region began taking preventative measures earlier this week and sent more updates about the potential impacts to itineraries on Thursday as the storm barrels towards Florida and the Southeast.

The National Hurricane Center said there is "significant additional strengthening expected before landfall" on Thursday morning, adding "there is danger of life-threatening storm surge along the entire west coast of the Florida Peninsula and Florida Big Bend."

See below for a full list of airports, cruise ship ports and other areas that have been impacted.

Air travel impacted ahead of Hurricane Helene: Airport closures, airline changes

Nearly 900 flights across the country have already been canceled due to Helene, according to Flight Aware , with the biggest impacts seen in Tampa, Fort Myers, and Atlanta as of time of publication.

While all airlines are required to offer a full refund to customers if a flight is canceled or significantly delayed due to reasons within the airline's control, per the Department of Transportation, that rule does not encompass weather-related delays or cancellations.

Florida airport closures

Tampa International Airport suspended all commercial and cargo operations at 2 a.m. Thursday and said it will remain closed to the public until it can assess any damage after the storm.

Tallahassee International Airport and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport have also closed and officials at each said they will be closed to the public until damage assessments are completed after the hurricane.

Other regional airports including Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport near Panama City Beach, Orlando International Airport and Jacksonville International Airport are currently open but have advised all travelers to check with airlines directly for the latest flight status and information.

Airlines prepare for Hurricane Helene, issue travel advisories

American Airlines American issued a travel alert for the Gulf of Mexico that affects 23 airports, with 16 of those in Florida, including Tampa and Sarasota.

For passengers who bought tickets of any fare class before September 23 for travel between Sept. 24-27, the change fee will be waived.

Changes must be booked by September 27, and travel must be for the same travel origin and destination.

Delta Air Lines The Atlanta-based carrier shared a weather advisory for Tropical Storm Helene due to forecasted path, explaining that "travel may be impacted to/from/through" 26 destinations.

"Check flight status frequently for up-to-the-minute information about your flight plans, or get updates sent directly to your mobile device or by email with One-Time Notification," the airline stated.

As of time of publication, the advisory covers 12 airports in Florida, including Jacksonville, Sarasota and Tampa, as well as select airports in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Mexico and Cuba.

Travelers scheduled to fly through one of the listed airports from September 25 through 27 can rebook tickets by Monday, September 30.

JetBlue Airways JetBlue has issued a travel alert that flights to multiple Florida destinations have been canceled on Thursday and Friday: Tallahassee and Tampa, as a result of the airport closures, as well as Fort Myers. The airline also canceled all Sarasota flights for Thursday.

All JetBlue flights to Orlando and Jacksonville are operating at this time, as well as Atlanta, Savannah and Charleston.

The airline said it will waive change, cancel fees, and fare differences for customers with travel on Sept. 26-27. Flights can be rebooked by Wednesday, Oct. 2.

Southwest Airlines Southwest Airlines issued the travel advisory "based on the forecasted weather conditions" where the carrier's "scheduled service may be disrupted."

It lists 10 Florida airports where scheduled service may be disrupted through Friday, plus Atlanta, Charleston, Charlotte, Greenville/Spartanburg, Myrtle Beach, Nashville and Savannah.

United Airlines The Chicago-based airline listed eight airports in Florida, plus one in Cuba and three more in Mexico, that would be impacted.

Passengers who purchased a plane ticket before Monday, September 23, for travel on Tuesday through Friday, September 24-27, to, from, or through any of the affected airports can rebook without a change fee for travel through Friday, October 4.

Frontier Airlines The budget carrier issued a travel alert for passengers traveling in or out of six Florida airports on both Thursday and Friday, September 26-27.

Royal Caribbean, Carnival and MSC Cruises change course, update itineraries

The sunshine state and its ports are at the center of the cruise industry, accounting for nearly 60% of all U.S. embarkations, according to the Cruise Lines International Association , where multiple sailing itineraries have been impacted by Hurricane Helene.

One ship is currently stuck at sea, while two more are skipping planned stops and multiple ports, including Port Canaveral, have closed as a result of the inclement weather.

Royal Caribbean Five ships routes have been impacted, according to a travel update from the cruise line's parent company Royal Caribbean Group.

Serenade of the Seas, which disembarked from Tampa on Sunday, changed both its Tuesday and Wednesday stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya for Freeport and Nassau, Bahamas. The ship is now set to return to Tampa on Sunday, two days later than originally scheduled delaying the next scheduled voyage that was originally set to leave on Friday.

"Due to Hurricane Helene and the planned closure of Port Tampa, our previous sailing will be delayed in returning," the cruise line stated. "As a result, our sailing will now depart on Sunday, Sept. 29 at 4:00pm. We kindly ask that you arrive during the arrival window you originally selected for an on-time departure."

Independence of the Seas departed Miami on Saturday and changed Tuesday's planned stop in Cozumel to Nassau, Bahamas.

Mariner of the Seas, which left Saturday from Galveston, Texas, also swapped out Cozumel on Tuesday for a day at sea.

Wonder of the Seas will scrap most of its planned stops, skipping Cozumel, Roatan in Honduras, and Costa Maya. The ship, which left from Florida's Port Canaveral on Sunday, will add stops in St. Thomas and St. Maarten instead.

Grandeur of the Seas will visit Nassau and Freeport in place of planned Wednesday and Thursday stops in Costa Maya and Cozumel. The cruise departed from Tampa on Monday.

Carnival Cruise Line Both Tampa and Jacksonville ports closed Wednesday evening ahead of Hurricane Helene's projected landfall.

"Our Fleet Operations Center in Miami continues to actively monitor Hurricane Helene, which is now entering the Gulf of Mexico," the company said on its website . "The safety of our guests and crew remains our priority and our ships are sailing a safe distance from the storm."

Given the forecasted track of Helene over the next few days, Carnival announced that eight ships' itineraries are currently under watch. Click here for full details and planned changes.

Disney Cruise Line Disney Fantasy left from Port Canaveral on Saturday and canceled its Tuesday call at George Town to replace it with a sea day.

The Disney Wish is the only ship that's currently impacted by the storm, a representative for Disney Cruise Lines confirmed to ABC News.

The ship was originally scheduled to arrive on Friday morning at Port Canaveral, which is currently "closed and has ceased all Port operations," with its next departure that was slated for Friday afternoon.

Now, the Disney Wish will arrive later than originally scheduled, the DCL representative said. Disney is the parent company of ABC News.

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12-year-old who fell to his death on royal caribbean cruise is id’d as ‘brilliant and witty’ michigan boy.

The “brilliant and witty” 12-year-old boy who plunged to his death from a balcony on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship earlier this month was innocently playing with new pals when the “unthinkable happened,” according to his grief-stricken family.

Pierson “Piers” Davis, of Coloma, Michigan, was vacationing with his family on the Harmony of the Seas ship when he fell from an upper deck on Sept. 7 — the day before the vessel was due to dock in Galveston, Texas after a weeklong voyage through the Caribbean.

“My family and I were on a cruise vacation the first week of September and the day before we were to arrive at port the unthinkable happened,” his mom, Audra Pierson Davis, wrote in a heartbreaking Facebook post.

“The thing every parent hopes and prays does not happen to them. It happened to me, it happened to us. My son tragically died.”

The preteen had been playing with friends he’d met on board before he tumbled over a balcony railing and landed in the “Central Park” area of the ship — a bustling spot filled with bars, restaurants and shops, according to reports .

Crewmembers tried to resuscitate him but he was pronounced dead before the ship could dock.

Davis’ family gathered in Coloma last Saturday for a funeral service on what would have been his 13th birthday.

He was described as a “cherished” son and brother who was obsessed with Pokemon, space and golf, according to an online obituary .

“Piers was a brilliant and witty young man, wise beyond his years. He had a natural confidence and social ease, happy to be himself,” the obit said.

“Despite his age, he possessed a mature sense of gratitude and a heart full of love, never hesitating to express it. His mind was sharp, constantly improving his skills and knowledge, often in Pokemon, other video games and any new mystery he could strum up.” 

He was “fascinated by Mars and the mysteries of space” and had recently discovered a love for golf, according to the tribute.

“His true peace was found in the woods, where he could reflect and immerse in nature, this was a place he loved to sit and ponder world secrets, like how to make it a better place,” the obit said.

Davis is survived by his parents, Justin and Audra, and two sisters, Amelia and Zuzana.

His funeral was held as authorities continue to probe the young boy’s death.

The FBI has since taken over the investigation, the Daily Mail reported .

“An FBI Maritime Liaison Agent, based out of the Texas City Resident Agency, is coordinating with the US Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, and the cruise line regarding this incident,” a spokesman told the outlet.

The Post has reached out to Royal Caribbean.

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Explore Roatan’s Best Attractions and Activities

• What is Roatan Known For?
• Roatan Shore Excursions

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking for a tranquil escape, Roatan has something for everyone. Here are 10 things Roatán is known for and why this island should be on every traveler’s radar.

1. World-Class Diving & Snorkeling

One of the main things Roatán is known for is its world-class diving and snorkeling. The island is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world, offering crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine ecosystems. Popular dive spots like West Bay, Blue Channel and the underwater wrecks provide incredible opportunities to encounter sea turtles, tropical fish and even whale sharks. Roatán is perfect for both experienced divers and beginners looking to get their certification.

2. Beautiful Beaches

Roatán is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean . West Bay Beach, with its powdery white sand and calm turquoise waters, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming or enjoying a beachfront meal, Roatán's beaches are the ideal spot to unwind and soak in the tropical vibes.

3. Gumbalimba Park

For nature lovers and families, Gumbalimba Park is a must-visit. This eco-adventure park offers a mix of outdoor activities, including ziplining, wildlife encounters and botanical gardens. The park is home to playful capuchin monkeys, colorful macaws and iguanas, offering an up-close look at Roatán's wildlife. Visitors can also explore historical exhibits and relax by the beach at the park’s waterfront area.

4. Marine Life Encounters at Little French Key

Little French Key, a private island off Roatán's coast, is known for its unrivaled beauty and marine life encounters. Visitors can enjoy a day of relaxation or engage in activities such as snorkeling, swimming with horses or observing rescued animals in the island’s sanctuary. The serene waters surrounding Little French Key make it a perfect place for water sports and exploration.

5. Rich Cultural Heritage

Roatán's cultural diversity is another aspect of the island that stands out. With a mix of Garifuna, British, Spanish and indigenous influences, the island boasts a unique blend of traditions, music and cuisine. Visitors can experience the Garifuna culture firsthand in Punta Gorda, the oldest settlement on the island, where traditional dance and music performances give insight into the island’s heritage.

6. Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences (RIMS)

Located at Anthony’s Key Resort, the Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences (RIMS) is a center dedicated to marine research and education. It offers visitors the chance to learn about Roatán's marine ecosystems through interactive programs like dolphin encounters and educational tours. RIMS plays a crucial role in marine conservation, making it a great destination for eco-conscious travelers interested in learning more about marine life.

7. The Carambola Botanical Gardens

For those seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, the Carambola Botanical Gardens is one of Roatán's hidden gems. This expansive garden features lush tropical plants, medicinal herbs and walking trails that lead to stunning views of the island’s north shore. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting a variety of species while hikers can trek up to a scenic overlook with panoramic views of the Caribbean.

8. Ziplining & Adventure Parks

Adventure seekers flock to Roatán for its adrenaline-pumping ziplining tours . Roatán offers some of the longest and highest zip lines in the region, allowing visitors to soar over lush jungle canopies and take in incredible views of the island’s beaches and reefs. Many adventure parks, such as South Shore Zipline, also combine zip-lining with other activities like suspension bridges and hiking trails, ensuring a fun-filled day for thrill-seekers.

9. Delicious Local Cuisine

One of the best ways to experience Roatán's culture is through its cuisine. The island is known for its fresh seafood, tropical fruits and local dishes like baleadas (a tortilla filled with beans, cheese and other toppings). Visitors should also try tapado, a traditional Garifuna seafood soup, as well as the island’s famous coconut bread. Beachfront restaurants offer a laid-back dining experience with stunning ocean views.

10. Monkey & Sloth Experience

One of the most popular activities in Roatán is the Monkey & Sloth Experience, where visitors can interact with these adorable creatures up close. Several animal sanctuaries around the island, like Daniel Johnson's Monkey and Sloth Hangout, offer guided tours where you can hold a sloth, feed capuchin monkeys and learn about the local wildlife. These encounters provide a unique opportunity to connect with some of the island’s most charming inhabitants and make unforgettable memories.

What is Roatán Known For?

Roatán is known for its world-class diving, beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. The island offers vibrant marine life in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, lush eco-adventure parks like Gumbalimba and cultural experiences in Punta Gorda. Visitors can enjoy unique wildlife encounters with monkeys and sloths, adding adventure to their stay. From relaxation to thrilling activities, Roatán is a top Caribbean destination.

Experience What is Roatan Known For? with these sailings

Complete your adventure with these shore excursions