Cruising in 2026? Key Changes to Be Aware of Before You Sail

(KMDL-FM) I think it is safe to say the cruise industry has rebounded from the COVID-19 Pandemic just fine. Things were up in the air for a while for the big boats, but tighter health protocols and some good old-fashioned common sense got the industry through that dark tunnel and into the bright light of cruising in 2026. If you're booked on a ship this year, there are some changes you need to be aware of before you board the vessel.

The major cruise ports that serve the Gulf South are now Mobile, Alabama. Regular service from that port was one of our bigger stories of last year. So, while that might seem to be an out-of-the-way drive from some Louisiana guests, the itinerary served on the Carnival vessel that serves that port might just have the perfect vacation for you. And you could top off a cruise with a few days on the Redneck Riviera if you were so inclined to do so.

READ MORE: Massive Brawl Involves More Than 30 On Cruise Ship Private Island

The Port of New Orleans continued to grow its list of cruise options in 2025, and the new year has promised plenty of new things from the Big Easy. Among the changes out of New Orleans would be the addition of some larger vessels and a few different itineraries rather than the usual "up and back" across the Gulf to Mexico.

The Port of Galveston had some big announcements in 2025 as well. That port has quickly grown in stature among the cruise industry and is poised to be one of the largest cruise ports in the world. Some great trips start in Galveston, and more than a few new ones for you to look at as you plan your travel fun in 2026.

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What Are The Big Changes Cruise Passengers Should Know About in 2026?

No matter what cruise line you choose, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, SilverSea, Norwegian, Disney, Virgin, MSC, and even Margaritaville all offer a loyalty program. The cruise lines are leaning in hard on those programs to get you as a repeat customer. If you find a line you love, make sure you join the loyalty program; it will pay you big time in 2026.

In some cases, where cruise lines are related on a corporate or corporate agreement level, you can use loyalty points from one line on another line. This gives you even more options and allows for faster upgrades on cabins, staterooms, and amenities.

Carnival is also shifting the focus of its loyalty program from "nights sailed" to "stuff you bought onboard." This is seen as an attempt to get you to spend more on upscale dining, spa, or show options on board.

Why Have Cruise Lines Cancelled Stops at Some Ports in Alaska and the Caribbean?

There have been two big issues regarding ports, one happened last year the other is ongoing. Last year's issue was in Alaska, where at least one cruise line pulled its ships from a particular port over the rising cost of port taxes. So, check your itinerary if you have an Alaskan cruise planned.

There is ongoing litigation involving a new port tax in Hawaii. The state wants the money the cruise lines don't want to pay, and you, the passenger, are caught in the fight. I expect several itinerary changes to be announced for Hawaiian cruises once this issue has been completely resolved.

What Can You Bring Onboard a Cruise Ship and What is Banned from Cruise Ships?

All of the cruise lines are tightening their security protocols. This could mean delays or denied boarding if you don't know what you can and can't carry onboard. And no, cannabis is a no-go no matter where you're sailing. It doesn't matter what the law on land says; the cruise lines haven't found a way to make money off of marijuana, so it will be "conveniently banned" until they do. Yes, that's my opinion on the subject.

Cruise lines are also cracking down on bad behavior and improper etiquette. No longer can you save those pool chairs for days at a time, and no, you can't gamble for real money in the lounge outside the art gallery. And for goodness sake, don't bring booze onboard, it could lead to a lifetime ban.

READ MORE: Cruise Ship Video Results in Lifetime Ban for Passenger

There will be more changes coming, but those are the big ones in a thumbnail sketch for you. Happy cruising, and remember, if they offer free ice cream, somebody died.