Terrible Changes Coming to Cruises in 2026
Source: Our analysis of the creator's lived experience, based on what they said in this video.
Creator's Key Takeaways
Cruise lines are rolling out major changes for 2026. Some that might actually benefit you and others that will hit your wallet hard.
Now, the big difference, instead of earning status based on cruise nights, it'll now factor in how much you spend both on fairs as well as onboard purchases.
Norwegian Cruise Line is charging $5 extra for an additional entree in the main dining room or included restaurant.
Gratuitities are now a separate line item. They are $20 per person per day if you pay them in advance.
Creator's Tips & Advice
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Scale: 0–5 strips in half-step increments. 0 = “meh”, 5 = “bacon bliss”. Aggregated from creator-review sentiment, weighted by channel expertise.
About our Bacon Score methodologyYouTube Video Description↓
2026 is bringing some of the biggest changes to cruising! From major cruise line changes, to private island updates, to cruise port destination news, this video discusses crucial changes in the cruise industry. We break down what extras will cost more on cruises & other important cruise updates you need to know! This video includes the cruise news, cruise tips & cruise advice first timers & experienced cruisers want to know to prepare for upcoming cruise travelers. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Virgin Voyages are all included in this cruise news video! 🛳 THE ULTIMATE CRUISE PLANNER 🛳 Get the Life Well Cruised ULTIMATE CRUISE PLANNER ($10 off for a limited time). The printable planner includes 47 pages of checklists, packing lists, shore excursion forms & more! here: https://lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-... *Travel agency I recommend - MEI Travel (no fee): http://bookmeicruise.com/lifewellcruised ______ The links in this description are affiliate links, meaning that I make a commission on purchases you make through my links, at no extra cost to you. As Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. FLIGHT & CRUISE ESSENTIALS: Clear TSA toiletry bags: https://amzn.to/3FvfI40 Over door organizer: https://amzn.to/4e3lVRj Hanging toiletry bag: https://amzn.to/3Nb8fFY Aloe Vera: https://amzn.to/4knUUdB Magnet hooks: https://amzn.to/3yP2xXU Magnet clips: https://amzn.to/37bNh9W Bonine: https://amzn.to/42SHDUf Handheld fan: https://amzn.to/3St36gJ No surge power cube (with USB): https://amzn.to/3TGq8lY Charger w/ built in cables: https://amzn.to/4k9ZIn7 Lanyards: https://amzn.to/3uNZBFb Waterproof phone case: https://amzn.to/3ZGpze2 Airplane pocket: https://amzn.to/4ct2ocB Travel fan: https://amzn.to/44y5yrJ Hanging cruise fan: https://amzn.to/3Tq9buV Travel binoculars: https://amzn.to/3I7xCLh Travel backpack: https://amzn.to/3IcUCIM Cosmetic bag: https://amzn.to/402EWhe Beach blanket: https://amzn.to/46pUCyX Aloe vera: https://amzn.to/4lIW7gm Jewelry pouch: https://amzn.to/3RXutiB Pill box: https://amzn.to/4jfBw25 Hybrid Travel Adapter (20% off with code epicka20off): https://amzn.to/4lxf2dC Electronics organizer: https://amzn.to/402DT0T Makeup mirror: https://amzn.to/4lAiHsd Sun hat: https://amzn.to/42FGcaz Poopourri: https://amzn.to/42SHKiD Passport wallet: https://amzn.to/3EjpK7U Air tag: https://amzn.to/4cvYgru Waterproof waist pouch: https://amzn.to/4iiYunH CRUISE LUGGAGE TAGS: Carnival, Princess, HAL, MSC: https://amzn.to/3Efz8JK Royal Caribbean, Celebrity: https://amzn.to/4jjZ7yU *LEVEL8 LUGGAGE (use discount code LIFEWELLCRUISED15 for 15% off): https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-10072095... *Nomad Lane carry-on bag (use discount code LIFE10 for 10% off): https://nomad-lane.myshopify.com/disc... ULTIMATE CRUISE PLANNER: https://lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-... More we LOVE @ Life Well Cruised Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3QaoV29 _______ FTC LEGAL DISCLOSURE - Some links found in the description box of my videos are affiliate links, meaning that I will make a commission on purchases you make through my links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I personally like and trust. _______ *Business inquiries & media: please contact Ilana at lifewellcruised@gmail.com Please note that I am unable to give personal cruise and travel advice. If you leave a comment I try my best to answer. ABOUT ME Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams! Please note I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travelers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking. ____________ Music Credit: Surf Time by Lux-InspiraMusicMusic Additional B-Roll footage: RCCL, NCLHC.