Cruising in 2025? You might notice some new rules, higher fees, and fresh policies that could impact your vacation. From new passenger taxes in Mexico and Iceland to stricter environmental regulations and onboard policy updates, staying informed is key to smooth sailing (literally).
Here’s a breakdown of the biggest cruise industry changes in 2025—and how they affect you.
New Passenger Fees: Your Wallet Might Feel the Difference
Cruising is still one of the best-value vacations, but some popular destinations have introduced new fees—and they’re not small.
Iceland: No Longer a Budget-Friendly Stop
What’s new? Iceland has significantly increased its per-passenger infrastructure fee to 2,500 ISK (about $18) per day. This means:
Some cruise lines are skipping Iceland altogether—over 80 itineraries have already been canceled due to the new tax.
If your ship still stops there, expect an added cost on top of your usual port fees.
Mexico: That Margarita Just Got More Expensive
What’s new? A $42 per-person immigration tax is now required for all cruise passengers docking in Mexican ports. Cruise companies have pushed back hard on this, arguing it could deter travelers and impact local economies.
If you’re cruising to Cozumel, Cabo, or Puerto Vallarta, check your itinerary—some cruise lines may adjust stops or raise fare prices to cover this cost.
Greece: Limiting Crowds and Raising Prices
Greece is tackling overtourism with new fees and passenger limits:
Santorini and Mykonos will charge a €20 arrival fee per cruise passenger during peak months.
Santorini is capping daily cruise visitors at 8,000—meaning your cruise line might change its arrival time or number of passengers allowed off the ship.
New Environmental Regulations: Cleaner Seas, Stricter Rules
The cruise industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, and 2025 is bringing tougher emissions and sustainability rules.
Stricter Emission Control Areas (ECAs)
Some regions (like parts of Europe and North America) now enforce low-emission fuel mandates, meaning cruise lines are spending more on eco-friendly fuels.
Translation? Ticket prices may rise as cruise companies pass the costs to passengers.
More Sustainable Ships (and Fewer Plastic Straws)
Hurtigruten and MSC Cruises are leading the way with battery-powered ships aiming for net-zero emissions by 2030.
Expect fewer single-use plastics, more paper-based straws and cups, and some cruise lines even banning plastic water bottles entirely.
Tip: Bring a refillable water bottle and a reusable straw—not all ships provide alternatives yet.
Cruise Line Policy Updates: What You Can and Can’t Do Onboard
Cruise lines are also tweaking their onboard policies to curb rule-breaking and enhance the passenger experience.
Say Goodbye to Deck Chair Hogs
Tired of people “reserving” deck chairs at 7 AM and not using them for hours? Cruise lines are cracking down.
Staff will remove towels and personal items after 30-40 minutes of vacancy.
Some ships are testing reservation systems to avoid fights over prime sunbathing spots.
Loyalty Drink Perks? Now There Are More Rules
If you’re part of a cruise loyalty program, you might notice changes:
Drink vouchers now have restrictions—some cruise lines require that complimentary beverages remain unopened if taken to your cabin.
Stricter drink package sharing rules to prevent abuse.
Tip: Read the fine print of your cruise line’s loyalty program before you sail—what worked in 2024 may be different now.
No More Bluetooth Speaker Parties
Cruise lines have banned portable Bluetooth speakers in public areas due to guest complaints about loud music.
Expect stricter noise policies in pool areas and lounges.
Some ships now require headphones for personal music use.
Mega Ships, Mega Fun
First up: MSC World America, a floating city set to launch in April 2025. With room for 6,762 passengers, this Caribbean-bound behemoth will sail from Miami with all the bells and whistles.
Right behind it, Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is making waves with its August debut—think eight distinct neighborhoods, a waterpark, and forty dining and drinking spots. (Yes, forty.)
River Cruises: Not Just for Your Great Aunt
Royal Caribbean is shaking things up with Celebrity River Cruises, set to launch in 2027. The move is bold, considering river cruising has been Viking’s domain for years, but it makes sense—smaller, more intimate ships, culturally rich itineraries, and a growing demand for immersive travel. If you love the idea of waking up in a new European city every day without packing and repacking, this is worth watching.
Private Islands: The VIP Experience at Sea
Cruise lines are going all-in on exclusive private island retreats. In 2025, you’ll see:
Carnival’s Celebration Key on Grand Bahama
Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club in Nassau
Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
Translation: More pristine beaches, fewer crowds, and perfectly curated experiences that feel a little less touristy and a lot more private resort with a side of adventure.
Younger Crowds, Fresh Energy
Forget the stereotype—cruising isn’t just for the "been-there-done-that" crowd anymore. Millennials and Gen Z are booking at record rates, drawn by adventure-packed itineraries, tech-driven ships, and the fact that a cruise lets them check multiple destinations off their bucket list in one go. Plus, with themed sailings (think music festivals at sea, wellness retreats, and gaming cruises), the experience is getting a serious glow-up.
How These 2025 Changes Affect Your Cruise Plans
🔹 Higher port fees mean some cruise itineraries may change. Check your final itinerary in case Iceland, Mexico, or Greece are affected.
🔹 Expect small price hikes on cruises due to environmental costs and new taxes. Booking sooner rather than later can lock in better rates.
🔹 Stricter onboard policies might make cruising quieter and more enjoyable—especially when it comes to deck chair hogs and noise complaints.
🔹 Eco-friendly changes mean fewer plastic items, cleaner ships, and possibly smoother sailing—but bring your own reusable bottle!
Cruising in 2025? Stay Ahead of the Changes!
The cruise industry is evolving, and while higher fees and new rules might sound frustrating, they’re ultimately designed to enhance sustainability, passenger experience, and fair use of onboard amenities.
The key? Stay informed, book early, and read the fine print before you sail.
To dive deeper into the 12 Disappointing Changes to Cruising in 2025, check out this insightful video by La Lido Loca:
📺 Video Credit: This video is created by La Lido Loca. All rights to the content belong to them. We are sharing it here as a helpful resource for our readers.
