Iglu Cruise News - October 2026
October’s spooky season is in full swing, and the cool winter weather is fast approaching, which means it’s time for another edition of Iglu Cruise News - our monthly article that highlights some of the cruise industry’s most interesting announcements, as well as what the Iglu Cruise creative team has been up to over the last month.
With seasonal announcements and new ship reveals, entertainment announcements, and so much more, it’s been a very busy month. So, let’s jump into the biggest cruise-related news stories from October 2026 and what you can look forward to when it comes to booking your next exciting adventure at sea.
A monthly round-up of the biggest cruise news…
Norwegian Cruise Line shares initial information about final Prima-class ship
The sensational grand finale of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima Class is coming, and there’s a lot to look forward to following the cruise line’s October 2026 announcements.
Earlier this month, Norwegian Cruise Line unveiled Norwegian Bella, the epic conclusion of its Prima Class and spiritual successor to the awe-inspiring Norwegian Aura, which is set to embark on its maiden voyage in 2027.
An ambitious cruise ship that invites everyone to holiday exactly how they want, Norwegian Bella builds on existing Prima Class experiences like Ocean Heights (a multi-deck activity area) and Ocean Boulevard (an oceanfront promenade featuring al fresco dining, stylish bars, and more), while also introducing elevated iterations of onboard destinations like Vibe Beach Club (an exclusive adults-only pool area) and Horizon Park (an outdoor area with lawn games, stunning sea views, and comfortable social spaces).
With Ocean Heights home to innovative experiences like Bella Midway (a carnival-esque activity area) and the Bella Ropes Course (which boasts breathtaking views of the ship and sea), you’ll find fun for the whole family. This is complemented by improved versions of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Kids’ Aqua Park and Adventure Alley. With all this and more to look forward to, it’s clear that Norwegian Bella is set to be a fantastic option for families.
Ocean Heights (Rendering), Bella Midway (Rendering), Vibe Beach Club (Rendering), Main Pool Deck (Rendering)
However, this ship is also set to host an impressive array of dining options, stylish lounge spaces with intimate entertainment, and bars boasting all your favourite refreshments; this ensures no one will have to compromise, adults and children alike. Norwegian Bella is also home to one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s most expansive deck experiences yet, plenty of late-night entertainment options, and state-of-the-art wellness facilities offering an abundance of sumptuous spa experiences.
Cruising to sensational destinations such as Salerno, Civitavecchia (which you can get to Rome from), and Palma de Mallorca – just to name a few – the Mediterranean escapes available aboard Norwegian Bella from May 2028 are certainly worth getting excited about. If you’re interested in learning more, you can find the latest deals on upcoming Norwegian Bella cruises right here.
Disney details Believe, a magical new ship debuting in 2027
This October, Disney Cruise Line confirmed several exciting details about its upcoming Wish-class cruise ship, Disney Believe, which is set to embark on its maiden voyage in December 2027.
A cruising experience inspired by courageous Disney characters who believe in themselves, their dreams, and the promise of new horizons, Disney Believe boasts a Grand Hall inspired by Moana – featuring an impressive statue of Moana herself (with Pua and Heihei), a carpet adorned with ocean hues and bioluminescent designs, and a chandelier modelled after the sea’s fluidity. This, however, is complemented by Gazelle, a Zootopia-inspired entertainment hub, Oaken’s Table: A Frozen Family Feast, an immersive dining experience that tells a new untold chapter of the Frozen story with Anna and Kristoff among the cast, and Wishing Well, a charming social space which draws on Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to deliver a quintessentially Disney experience.
These new additions to Disney Cruise Line’s impressive array of themed venues and experiences are joined by Sea Notes, an adult-focused piano lounge inspired by Ariel’s Grotto, Big Hero Sips, a vibrant cafe that invites you into Big Hero Six’s San Fransokyo, and a new addition to Mickey and Friends’ Festival of Foods: Pluto’s Pita Platter, a stall boasting a Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Disney Encanto, an incredible adaptation of the Academy Award-winning Disney Animation Studios film, is also exclusively debuting on Disney Believe; a production inspired by vibrant Colombian cultures and featuring fantastic renditions of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hits from the movie, this is one entertainment experience you won’t want to miss.
The Grand Hall (Artists Rendition), Disney Encanto (Artists Rendition), Oaken's Table: A Frozen Family Feast (Artists Rendition), Wishing Well (Artists Rendition)
Complementing this impressive array of new experiences, Disney Believe is also set to feature the ever-popular Haunted Mansion Parlor, Incredibles-inspired Hero Zone, Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas, the refined restaurant 1923, and Worlds of Marvel – which will welcome guests to enjoy Marvel Celebration of Heroes: Groot Remix. Guests embarking on adventures aboard Disney Believe will also encounter a new iteration of the AquaMouse seacoaster, Palo Steakhouse, Disney Cruise Line’s Senses Spa, a fresh version of Disney’s Oceaneer Club, and so much more.
With this shaping up to be another sensational sailing experience from Disney Cruise Line, with fun for the whole family waiting, you can find out more about upcoming Disney Believe cruise deals right here.
Uniworld’s biggest fleet expansion ever is on the way
October also saw Uniworld share more information about its plans for 2027, and the river cruise line’s biggest fleet expansion yet is on the horizon, as well as some unmissable sailings along the world’s most breathtaking waterways.
Following on from the debut of Uniworld’s S.S. Emilie in 2026, this river cruise line will see S.S. Audrey, S.S. Marlene, and S.S. São Rafael join its soon-to-be all-Super Ship fleet throughout 2027. Building on Uniworld’s already impressive selection of Europe-based sailings, this is far from the only thing to look forward to. 2027 will also see Uniworld partner with Aqua Expeditions on two exclusive sailings aboard the expedition yacht Aqua Blu, a completely new cruising experience for both Uniworld and its guests.
Uniworld’s remarkable expansion continues healthily into 2028, with the introduction of S.S. Helen, S.S. Clara, and Mekong Mystique planned. Not only will this make even more sensational sailings along the Danube and Rhine available, but it will also allow Uniworld to offer even more unmissable river cruises in Southeast Asia.
With so much on the horizon, and an impressive fleet of river cruise ships already sailing to some of the most scenic spots around the world, there’s never been a better time to embark on a river-bound adventure with Uniworld; check out all the latest Uniworld cruise deals right here.
Holland America Line shares first look at signature social space Bar 1873
Ahead of its extensive drydock, which starts in September 2027, Holland America Line has revealed Bar 1873: a brand new signature lounge set to elevate Oosterdam’s social spaces.
A major part of Oosterdam’s Holland America Evolution improvements, Bar 1873 is a two-story, atrium-style space with carefully curated heritage displays and elevated lounge seating, designed for calm conversations, intimate entertainment, and refined cocktails. With an illuminated tulip sculpture acting as the area’s centrepiece, as well as live piano performances during pre-dinner periods, this is certain to be a popular part of the social spaces available aboard Oosterdam when it returns to service in October 2027.
Holland America Line has also shared that Bar 1873 is set to become a hallmark of its Holland America Evolution programme, with other ships in its fleet featuring different iterations of the space, following different themes to Oosterdam’s “May She Be Blessed” – which honours the tradition of ship christenings and godmothers.
With all Vista Class and Signature Class ships scheduled to undergo improvements with Holland America Evolution, expect to see more iterations of this fascinating venue in the future.
TUI River Cruises unveil new ships alongside bumper Summer 2028 season
Earlier this month, TUI River Cruises detailed an impressive Summer 2028 season, introducing two new river cruise ships to its remarkable fleet, alongside an exciting array of itineraries along the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, and Seine.
In Summer 2028, TUI River Cruises’ TUI Elara – which is set to debut in March 2027 – is offering a variety of river cruises through the heart of northern France along the Seine. Meanwhile, TUI Luzia continues to offer Douro river cruises, and select solo-specific sailings will be available on TUI Maya along the Danube and TUI Skyla on the Rhine.
Adding to these interesting itineraries, TUI River Cruises’ fleet will see TUI Zora and TUI Velara introduced, with the former debuting along the Rhine in May 2028 and the latter debuting on the Danube in August 2028. Both ships will feature 94 cabins for 188 guests at a time, TUI River Cruises’ fantastic dining experience, and an optional All Inclusive experience that promises to elevate your experience on some of the world’s most stunning rivers.
If you’re interested in any of these interesting itineraries, you’ll find more on the latest TUI River Cruises deals right here – both those in 2028 and those setting sail sooner.
That’s far from all that has happened this month; if you’re after even more cruise news from October 2026, highlights include:
- Royal Caribbean revealed that The SpongeBob Musical is coming to Hero of the Seas when it sets sail in August 2027; reimagining the hit Nickelodeon cartoon and Broadway show, this is set to be fun for the whole family
- Explora Journeys has kicked off an exciting partnership with luxury French cosmetics house Sisley Paris with the debut of elevated wellness products aboard Explora III; expected to expand to Explora I and Explora II in 2027, this also sees signature Sisley Paris treatments and tailored skincare rituals available in Ocean Wellness – The Spa
- MSC Cruises continues to expand on MSC World Asia details, with Italian restaurant Eataly coming to this impressive new cruise ship when it debuts this December; it has also shared that MSC World Asia’s World Theatre will feature new shows like Sensoria (a music production that blends movement with cirque artistry to transform the stage into a living sensation) and Ritmo Divino (a love affair that blends fiery Flamenco with Spanish folklore), while the Panorama Lounge will continue to impress with orchestra-led spectacles you won’t want to miss
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- This month saw Virgin Voyages refresh the menus available at The Dock and The Wake, with new flavours also coming to its Beach Club at Bimini; with the help of Michelin-starred Chef Brad Farmerie, The Dock and The Wake will see new menus evolving the current culinary themes of each dining destination, while new Caribbean-inspired cuisines will feature at the Beach Club at Bimini courtesy of Chef Rashida Holmes
P&O Cruises’ sensational Winter 2028/29 sailings are here
P&O Cruises’ incredible Winter 2028/29 sailings are here, and it’s set to be a winter you can definitely get on board with.
On Azura, the sun-drenched Canary Islands await, with options to fly into Gran Canaria and Tenerife ensuring there’s a sunny sailing for everyone to enjoy; you’ll also have the chance to visit destinations in Morocco and more on Azura during the Winter 2028/29 season, making it even more unmissable.
Meanwhile, P&O Cruises’ Arvia and Iona will both be offering an incredible selection of Caribbean itineraries, while Aurora sets sail on an extended exploration of the Americas: north and south. With Ventura adding to this selection of sailings with cruises to Northern Europe and Scandinavia, as well as cruises to Southern Europe and parts of the Western Mediterranean, there are plenty of options to choose from.
This is also the last season Arcadia sails with P&O Cruises, as the modern cruise ship joins Holland America Line in Summer 2029. Embarking on an epic 126-night adventure around the world, visiting exotic ports P&O Cruises hasn’t visited in over 20 years alongside bucket list destinations like Singapore and Cape Town, this is certain to be an unforgettable adventure. An interesting change to both cruise lines’ fleets, more information about Arcadia’s new name and refit will be available in the future – so, watch this space.
For more on what you can expect from P&O Cruises during this sensational season, Arcadia’s farewell season, check out the full collection of upcoming cruises right here: P&O Cruises Winter 2028/29 Launch & Arcadia’s farewell Summer 2029 season
Cunard’s unmissable Winter 2028/29 cruises arrive
It’s time to look forward and secure your spot on a sensational Winter 2028/29 sailing with Cunard; from a once-in-a-lifetime Four Queens Celebration event to the most historic Transatlantic Crossing yet, there’s so much to look forward to during this unmissable season.
Not only will this season see Queen Mary 2 embark on its 500th transatlantic voyage, a prestigious occasion for this iconic ocean liner, but Queen Mary 2 will also explore destinations throughout the Caribbean and Western Mediterranean, offering a fantastic array of options for anyone wanting to experience this quintessential Cunard cruising experience.
Meanwhile, Cunard’s Queen Victoria is embarking on several sailings from UK ports to the Canary Islands, alongside scenic sailings to Northern Europe and Scandinavia. Complemented by Queen Elizabeth’s incredible 115-night world voyage, this Cunard season boasts something for every type of traveller.
It’s also worth noting that this season comes with a fascinating change to Cunard’s fleet; in 2029, following its world voyage, Queen Anne will be leaving Cunard and joining P&O Cruises. During this fantastic season, Queen Anne will be exploring South America, inviting you to visit some of the world’s most fascinating destinations in comfort and style, with Cunard’s White Star Service and attention to detail enhancing every moment. Little is known about what Queen Anne will look like following a refit for P&O Cruises, but there’s a lot to look forward to – including a new name!
If you’re interested in embarking on a cruise escape with Cunard in Winter 2028, which is also Queen Anne’s wonderful farewell season, you’ll find the full collection of upcoming voyages here: Cunard Winter 2028/29 Launch
Iglu Cruise Insider - Our top posts in October
October is always a busy month, with cruise lines revealing exciting winter sailings for future years and Black Friday deals just weeks away; but that’s not all the creative team at Iglu Cruise have been focusing on for the last month. Below, you’ll find all the inspiring articles and informative posts from October:
- Cruising the Norwegian fjords with Cunard: The ultimate guide
- Best Canada and Alaska cruises and handcrafted holidays
You’ll also find a fantastic selection of fresh Iglu Cruise staff reviews to check out:
- Cate’s Elegant French River Cruise with Riviera Travel
- Aidan’s Spectacular Mediterranean Cruise with Holland America Line
- Janet’s Magical Bahamas Trip with Disney Cruise Line
- Alex's dreamy day with Disney Cruise Line
- Alex’s fantastic fjords adventure with Hurtigruten
There’s a lot to look forward to in November and beyond, too, so be sure to check out everything else on Iglu Cruise Insider; this part of the site is dedicated to helping you make an informed decision when booking your next escape and inspiring you to book that bucket list escape you’re always talking about. So, watch this space for even more incredible content in the coming weeks and months, from authentic staff reviews of cruise experiences, posts highlighting the hottest deals, and so much more.
Book your next exciting escape with Iglu Cruise today
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Meanwhile, you'll find more informative and inspirational pieces on Iglu Cruise Insider, including: