The latest at sea

Cruise news, minus the fluff.

Quick briefs on announcements, ships, destinations, drama, and unusually good fares.

Carnival shifts loyalty status to spending-based system

Carnival Rewards introduces qualifying stars and two-year cycles as other major cruise lines retain existing thresholds or add milestones.

The new options include an outdoor painting session and a boat trip to an eco-hiking experience on a nearby island.

The ship will pause in the river near the Pier Head before continuing its journey.

Salcedo says his annual cabin budget ranges from $70,000 to $100,000, depending on the accommodation selected.