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🚨BREAKING NEWS
Royal Caribbean Group just announced a $3billion partnership with Sandals Resorts. Here's what we know - and, perhaps more importantly, what we don't know yet.

Tell us your thoughts!
I will make a Wake Report video when I can digest this and see how it truly affects cruisers.
blog.grabyourbagstravel.com/royal-caribbean-buys-5…

1 day ago | [YT] | 0

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What's one cruise expense you think is absolutely worth paying for?

3 days ago | [YT] | 0

Grab Your Bags Travel

🛳️THE WAKE REPORT — Cruise News Briefing
A few cruise stories caught my eye this week:


🍸 MSC World Asia adds five new bar & lounge concepts
MSC has revealed five new venues coming to MSC World Asia, including a Soda Bar, Sky Box Bar, Terraces Bar & Lounge, Coral Cove Bar and a new Pan Asian Bar. The ship begins Mediterranean sailings December 4, 2026.


🌎 Explorations by Norwegian launches with a 371-day world cruise
The former Oceania Regatta has begun sailing under the new Explorations by Norwegian brand. Its inaugural voyage is a 371-day journey visiting more than 220 ports across six continents. Shorter segments are also available.


🇪🇺 Europe's EES rollout is still creating questions
Nine Schengen countries — including France, Italy, Greece, Germany and Portugal — are reportedly retaining additional flexibility around the implementation of biometric checks. The EES itself is fully operational, but the rollout has continued to create congestion and operational concerns at some borders.


🚢 Holland America moves Oosterdam's transformation forward
Holland America is beginning Oosterdam's major Evolution transformation five weeks earlier than planned. That means several previously scheduled 2027 cruises, from September 11 through December 9, have been canceled, while five new post-transformation sailings are being added. Affected guests are being contacted about rebooking options.


✨ Azamara relaunches Experience More packages
Azamara has introduced three refreshed package levels — Essentials, Enjoyment and Indulgence — combining options such as Wi-Fi, beverages, dining, shore-excursion credits and other perks. The new packages apply to sailings departing September 24, 2026 and later.


🚨 And a little Wake Report news of our own...
I'm experimenting with the format of The Wake Report.


Rather than trying to turn every week's collection of cruise headlines into a full video, I'm going to focus the video on one story when there's something substantial enough to really dig into — something that affects what you pay, pack, board or book.


I'll still share the week's cruise news here, but the video may look a little different going forward.


If there's a story worth your time, I want to spend more time on it.


Stay tuned for the next Wake Report. 👀🚢
Happy Cruising!
— Angela
Grab Your Bags Travel

6 days ago | [YT] | 1

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If you saw my Wake Report 2 weeks ago, If not- link is below, I talked about Margaritaville At Sea will be sailing out of Galveston next year. Now we know they will be sending their new ship that debuts in January, Beachcomber, to Galveston.
Who is excited about the new ship in Galveston?

https://youtu.be/52UYeoxr1po?si=Wfflf...

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 1

Grab Your Bags Travel

🚢 A new Wake Report is coming tomorrow...

This week's cruise news includes 5 changes that could affect what you pay and your upcoming cruise plans.

💵 One could affect your wallet.
🧳 Another could affect your plans before you even board.

I'll break down what changed — and what it could mean for cruisers — in tomorrow's Wake Report.

Which gets your attention first: 💵 saving money or 🧳 avoiding a travel headache?

4 weeks ago | [YT] | 1

Grab Your Bags Travel

What's something you didn't know about cruising when you took your first cruise that you wish someone had told you?

1 month ago | [YT] | 1

Grab Your Bags Travel

Cruise Gratuities: What do you think?
I covered the latest gratuity increase in this week's Wake Report. Now I want your opinion! I'll share some of your thoughts in next week's episode. https://youtu.be/ELvfb07XKwM

1 month ago | [YT] | 2

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Since I am traveling this week, The Wake Report is looking a bit different. Here are some news stories that affect cruisers.

1. Barcelona Proposes Major Cruise Tax Increase
Barcelona is moving forward with plans to significantly increase its cruise passenger tax, with fees potentially rising to €30.34 (about $35 USD) per passenger. City officials say the increase is intended to help offset the impact of overtourism and fund local infrastructure. If approved, the higher tax could make Barcelona one of the most expensive cruise ports in Europe and may eventually influence cruise fares or itinerary planning for ships visiting the popular Mediterranean destination.


2. Norwegian Gem & Norwegian Jade Receive Major Upgrades
Norwegian Cruise Line has completed extensive renovations to Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Jade, bringing several modern enhancements to the nearly 20-year-old ships. Highlights include the addition of the adults-only Vibe Beach Club, expanded thermal suites in the Mandara Spa, refreshed public spaces, and updated accommodations. The upgrades are part of NCL's ongoing effort to modernize its classic fleet while keeping these fan-favorite ships competitive with newer vessels.


3. Disney Cruise Line Makes History with First Female Captain of Disney Wish
Disney Cruise Line has appointed Captain Minnie Bodhanwala as the first woman to command the Disney Wish, marking a historic milestone for the company. Captain Bodhanwala, who has spent decades at sea and previously captained the Disney Magic, now takes the helm of Disney's flagship vessel. Her promotion represents another step forward for diversity in the maritime industry and serves as an inspiring achievement for aspiring female officers worldwide.


4. Low Water Levels Disrupt Danube River Cruises
Unusually low water levels on the Danube River are once again disrupting river cruise operations across parts of Europe. Several cruise lines have been forced to modify itineraries by swapping ships, transporting guests by bus between ports, or canceling sailings altogether where navigation is no longer possible. The recurring issue, driven by prolonged dry conditions and extreme weather, highlights the growing challenges climate-related events pose for Europe's popular river cruise industry. Travelers with upcoming Danube cruises are encouraged to monitor updates from their cruise line, as itinerary changes may continue until water levels improve.


Be sure to check out my new video this week where I share a story from a colleague's client. A snowball effect of problems which caused a missed cruise but an eventual happy ending.
Watch Here: https://youtu.be/BkHUV_GLn_w?si=IQooH...

2 months ago | [YT] | 0

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What is your countdown?

3 months ago | [YT] | 1

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Happy Father's Day!

3 months ago | [YT] | 1