Tales from the Ship

WE’RE BACK! After an incredible journey on the brand-new MSC World America , we’re kicking off our return with a very special guest. In this episode of Tales from the Ship , we sit down with Leo to talk about the evolution of cruising, the hidden gems of the World America, and what it’s really like to live for the sea.

Join Captain Dan and First Mate Steph aboard the magnificent MSC World America for a long-awaited chat with a truly inspiring guest: Richard ! After a busy week navigating the seas and the ship's activities, we finally found the perfect moment to sit down and discuss his incredible journey.

On this episode of Tales from the Ship , we welcome Smiley Abrams , founder of the Andy Abrams Foundation in Mississippi . Recorded aboard the MSC World America , Smiley shares his infectious enthusiasm for “bad” movies, why they matter more than you think, and how his personal mission extends far beyond the screen. Listeners will hear: 🌍 The story behind the Andy Abrams Foundation, created to ho...

In this week’s episode, we dive into a whirlwind of cruise updates—from Norwegian’s unusual hotel check-in for NCL Dawn passengers to the debut of an Elton John tribute show aboard NCL Luna. Carnival makes headlines with a tragic FBI investigation, a lifeboat mishap in Cozumel, and a quiet tweak to its drink package rules. Plus, loyalty program changes are pushed back to September 2026. Royal Cari...

Join us aboard the MSC World America as we sit down with Sara Waxman, Editor-in-Chief of DINE Magazine and one of the world’s most celebrated food critics, for a flavorful episode of Tales from the Ship. From her publishing roots to her globe-trotting culinary adventures, Sara shares her favorite places to eat, unforgettable dining experiences, and a few deliciously fun stories along the way.

Captain Dan takes the mic this week for First Mate Steph, diving into a whirlwind of cruise industry drama—from Norwegian’s guest-upsetting moves to Royal Caribbean’s crackdown on streamers, Virgin Voyages stepping up for cruisers, and Disney stirring debate with bold new policies.

Recorded aboard a cruise ship but rooted in the rhythms of the road, this episode of Tales from the Ship features a wide-ranging conversation with Adir, who’s currently exploring the United States one mile at a time. As he shares stories from his cross-country car adventure—peppered with cruise memories and cultural discoveries—Adir offers thoughtful reflections on freedom, connection, and the une...

Continuing our series from the MSC World America, we sat down with Adrianna and Gian — a dynamic young couple whose journey spans from Puerto Rico to the palm-lined streets of The Villages, Florida. With infectious energy and heartfelt insight, they opened up about growing up surrounded by retirees, sharing how the wisdom of age shaped their views on life, service, and joy. From tales of good time...

In this week’s episode, we dive into the ripple effects of China’s new port fee targeting U.S.-flagged ships, which has already rerouted Oceania’s Riviera from Shanghai to Busan to avoid a $1.64 million charge. We’re also tracking Hurricane Melissa as it barrels toward Jamaica as a Category 5. Plus, Norwegian Cruise Line goes paperless, rescues 63 migrants, and announces a new Hawaii tax starting...

Captain Dan takes the helm solo this week while First Mate Steph was off on a snack run 🍿. He chats with Alexander — a travel-loving YouTuber with stories from around the globe. From favorite destinations to behind-the-scenes creator life, this episode is full of wanderlust and wisdom. Steph returns just in time with dessert and a few laughs

In this episode of Tales from the Ship , we kick off our first onboard interviews with a delightful conversation featuring newlyweds Andy and Emily. Recorded aboard the MSC World America, this chat captures the joy, energy, and connection that make cruising such a special experience. It’s a warm, easygoing dive into life at sea with two guests who embody the spirit of adventure and celebration—per...

This week on Tales from the Ship , the Weekly Helm Report dives into a stormy sea of cruise news: Norwegian tightens its drink policy at Great Stirrup Cay, Carnival faces delays and a viral TikTok ban, and Royal Caribbean stirs excitement with whimsical dining, weather detours, and a major ship swap for winter 2026. From haunted headlines to chocolatey musicals, it’s a spooky season on the high se...

In this heartwarming and hilarious episode of Tales from the Ship , we sit down with TikTok sensation @YourGrandpaPaul for a deep dive into cruise life, family content creation, and unexpected adventures at sea. From filming viral videos with his grandson to navigating two-week cruises and convincing his wife to join the podcast fun, Paul shares stories that blend humor, nostalgia, and a touch of...

Ahoy, cruisers! In this jam-packed edition of The Weekly Helm Report , we’re catching up on two weeks of cruise chaos after Captain Dan and I sailed aboard MSC World America. From hurricanes rerouting ships across every major line to a norovirus outbreak on Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas , the seas have been anything but calm. Norwegian Cruise Line announced sweeping itinerary cancellation...

In this soulful episode of Tales from the Ship , Grillo joins us for a heartfelt conversation about the signs that steer us, the serendipity of travel, and the quiet wisdom found in moments of loss. From cosmic nudges to unexpected detours, Grillo shares how the universe has whispered his way forward—and how embracing chance has shaped his journey. It’s a reflective, resonant chat that reminds us...

In this magical episode of Tales from the Ship , Chrystal and Victoria join Capt Dan and First Mate Stephanie to dish on all things Disney Dream—from pixie-dusted itineraries to the perks of using a travel agent who truly gets the magic. Whether you're a seasoned Disney adult or just dipping your toes into cruise life, this chat sails through insider tips, favorite moments, and the joy of embracin...

On this week’s show, we've seen a number of high-profile stories from across the cruise world. Carnival made waves by announcing Norfolk will become a homeport for the Carnival Freedom starting in 2027, and Royal Caribbean is pulling out of Labadee, Haiti, for the foreseeable future due to safety concerns. Meanwhile, the newest ships are making news: Virgin's Brilliant Lady is now sailing, MSC's n...

In this magical episode, we chat with Kristen, a Disney-loving travel agent whose passion for cruising shines as brightly as Cinderella’s castle at sunset. From the sun-soaked shores of Castaway Cay to the cultural gems across the Caribbean and Mediterranean, we explore the islands Disney Cruise Line sails to—and dive into the excitement of Disney’s expansion to Australia and New Zealand. Our gues...

In this episode, Captain Dan and First Mate Steph unpack the ultimate cruise packing list. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, these tips will help you pack smarter and sail smoother.

From maiden voyages to major milestones, this week’s cruise news is packed: Norwegian Sky exits the fleet as NCL drops 500+ new 2027 itineraries; Virgin Voyages launches Brilliant Lady with bold new shows and a splashy Bravo cameo; Carnival unveils its “CHEERS! Zero Proof” drink package and fresh Alaska & South America sailings; Disney Adventure hits sea trials while Disney Destiny teases pira...

From Carnival’s kid-free casino cruises to Norwegian’s pyrotechnic party nights, this week’s cruise buzz is loud, luxe, and loaded. Stephanie breaks down the biggest moves from Royal Caribbean, Margaritaville, and more—because being late doesn’t mean missing the boat. Find us on Instagram @TalesfromtheShipPodcast or on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/groups/1068692502047852 #CruiseNews #Weekly...

This week, we hit the sand for a laid-back, sun-soaked episode of Tales from the Ship ! Captain Dan and First Mate Steph compare three popular AI chatbots to see which one dishes out the best cruise tips. From packing hacks to port-day planning, we put these bots to the test. We also share: 🌍 Where we’ll be recording from in the coming months 📲 How to connect with us online 🎉 A huge thank-you f...

This week’s Weekly Helm Report reads like a cruise thriller: Hurricane Erin has ships scrambling across the Caribbean, with ports canceled, itineraries flipped, and one vessel left adrift off Italy. Carnival faces heat over crew deportations and a $18K gift card scam at PortMiami, while Royal Caribbean’s $600M Perfect Day Mexico project is under fire—200K+ petitioners say it threatens coral reefs...

In this episode of Tales from the Ship , we welcome Meghan—a lifelong Disney fan and cruise enthusiast whose journey spans Virgin Voyages, MSC, and of course, the magic of Disney Cruise Line. From her first sailing to her favorite onboard moments, Meghan shares how cruising became her ultimate escape and storytelling playground. ✨ What You’ll Hear: Meghan’s first cruise and what sparked her love...

Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas makes a splash with its debut from Port Canaveral—plus a surprise godmother switcheroo and a major milestone aboard Icon of the Seas . But not all is smooth sailing: a waterslide malfunction prompts safety concerns. Meanwhile, MSC Cruises reroutes its 2026 World Cruise due to Red Sea instability, offers full refunds, and expands its Caribbean footprint with seven...