The sun is starting to shine, and it’s time for another exciting edition of Iglu Cruise News! In the April 2025 edition, we’re going to run through some of the biggest news to come out of the cruise industry, letting you know what’s on the way, and highlight some of the interesting things the Iglu Cruise team have been working on throughout April.
So, without any further ado, let’s just get stuck straight into the latest cruise news down below!
A Monthly Roundup of the Biggest Cruise News
Allure of the Seas Returns, as Utopia of the Seas Enters Drydock
It’s (almost) all-change at Royal Caribbean this April, with Allure of the Seas returning from drydock with several new improvements and attractions for travellers to enjoy.
Not only does this refreshed cruise ship now sport a redesigned pool deck and The Perfect Storm, a trio of thrilling waterslides, but new dedicated bar areas and a Samba Grill have been introduced to the adults-only Solarium space onboard – improving the onboard experience of both young cruisers and adults alike. Several popular Royal Caribbean restaurants and bars will also now be available on Allure of the Seas, including The Mason Jar, Playmakers, the Pesky Parrot, El Loco Fresh, and The Lime & Coconut.
The Adventure Ocean area onboard has also been revamped alongside an improved teen space, which will now be Social298. To say this is a substantial update would be something of an understatement, and cruisers can expect a revitalised onboard experience when they next embark on an adventure aboard Allure of the Seas.
This, though, is all happening while Utopia of the Seas – which is one of the biggest cruise ships in the world – is entering drydock. The main change to the onboard amenities will be the introduction of a larger, non-smoking casino. This will mean The Attic is no-longer available on Utopia of the Seas, however, with all entertainment found here being moved to the Royal Theater. The Crown Lounge will also be relocated and redesigned, improving the offering available to higher-tier Crown and Anchor members.
While these changes won’t affect everyone onboard, and you’ll still find late-night entertainment available when you embark on an adventure with Utopia of the Seas, this could be indicative of changes to come across the Royal Caribbean fleet – if the expanded non-smoking casino proves popular with cruisers, that is.
It’s Out with the Old for Oosterdam as HAL Ship Undergoes Major Update
Following a two-week drydock, Holland America Line’s Oosterdam is back with a host of incredible updates, all of which aim to improve the entire onboard experience.
In addition to major interior design improvements throughout the ship, and reportedly the installation of over 215,000 square feet of new carpets (which is a staggering amount of carpets), new furniture was introduced to various public areas with the Crow’s Nest, Greenhouse Spa & Salon, and Neptune Lounge among the venues receiving the most substantial upgrades. Several balcony cabins also have new outdoor furniture, and several cabin bathrooms have been fully renovated.
On top of all this, the Rolling Stone Lounge and Lido Market were refreshed, and both the Salon and the Fitness Centre have been improved with new equipment and facilities. The Salon and Spa, which now features a new thermal suite and refreshed Relaxation Lounge, are also more accessible to guests with disabilities following the improvements.
With the onboard casino expanded, and new retail opportunities replacing the small theatre, it’s safe to say a cruise aboard Oosterdam will feel fresh following this impressive update.
Celebrity Cruises Confirm New Experiences Coming to Upcoming Celebrity Xcel
Ahead of its maiden voyage, Celebrity Cruises has confirmed that Celebrity Xcel will enjoy new dining and entertainment options, further elevating the experience of those onboard.
In Bora, a brand-new al fresco restaurant, guests will be able to enjoy an incredible brunch experience with live music and an elevated menu of brunch classics – from avocado on sourdough toast to croissant eggs benedict and more. Then, this will become an intimate dining venue when the evening rolls around, with a seafood-focused menu. You’ll also enjoy more live music when the sun sets, further fostering a refined atmosphere.
Adding to this, Celebrity Xcel will also see three new theatre shows introduced to the entertainment offerings onboard; sailing with the largest theatre cast in Celebrity Cruises’ fleet, this ship will take full advantage of new state-of-the-art kinetic lighting, lasers, and a large LED screen to further improve the experience for guests. There will also be two new interactive shows in the Piano Bar, refreshing the entertainment experience further.
With Celebrity Xcel due to embark on its maiden voyage in November 2025, this could very well be just the first in a series of announcements regarding this new Celebrity Cruises ship. So, be sure to keep an eye out in the weeks and months to come.
Paul Gauguin Gets Refresher Ahead of Summer Season
Paul Gauguin Cruises’ MS Paul Gauguin emerged from an extensive seven-week drydock earlier this month, featuring substantial refurbishment, several important improvements, and ship-wide upgrades to various interiors and venues.
In addition to important sustainability upgrades, Paul Gauguin’s Le Grill restaurant has been refreshed with contemporary interior designs and the soft furnishings in public spaces throughout the ship have been upgraded. The pool deck onboard has also been reimagined, with a new shaded cabana area introduced alongside eight new connecting staterooms for guests to enjoy.
With new interiors designed to create an atmosphere and ambiance that celebrates the natural beauty of the ship’s tropical surroundings, spending almost all of its time cruising around French Polynesia, guests can expect a fresh experience when they next embark on an adventure aboard this unique ship.
Several Cruise Lines Update Dining and Entertainment Experiences
Throughout April, several cruise lines have confirmed updates to their existing dining and entertainment options onboard, with new menus and new theatre shows coming to several ships sailing to stunning destinations around the world in the coming months.
Costa Cruises has introduced a new menu to Pizzeria Pummid’Oro aboard Costa Toscana, with a refined menu of pizzas and toppings available alongside new entertainment in this Italian restaurant. Meanwhile, Crystal Cruises has also confirmed that it's updating an Italian restaurant’s menu on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. The food available in Osteria d’Ovidio will feature updated Italian regional classics, signature dishes from the Alajmo family’s three Michelin-starred restaurant, and a modern take on Venetian cuisine.
Beyond this, Virgin Voyages has announced that it will introduce Rojo by Razzle Dazzle to Brilliant Lady in the future; a Spanish-inspired dining venue with a lunch menu focused on Spanish-American cuisine and an evening menu leaning on regional Spanish dishes, this will be one restaurant you won’t want to miss when onboard.
Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambience is also debuting three new theatre shows: Ding Dong, a comedic story that transports guests to Paris; Global Explosion, a globe-trotting dance show whisking you away on a vibrant cultural journey; and Bard on Board, a Shakespearean show performed during Ambassador Night that blends classical theatre with more contemporary entertainment.
P&O Cruises’ Summer 2027 Sailings are Finally Here!
After a short period where you could pre-register your interest, and a lot of excitement from British cruisers, P&O Cruises’ summer 2027 sailings are now on general sale – and there are some fantastic itineraries to look forward to. From March 2027 to October 2027, P&O Cruises is offering sailings to the Norwegian Fjords, through the Mediterranean, around the British Isles, to the Canary Islands, and more aboard Iona, Aurora, Arcadia, Britannia, and Azura.
With these sailings ranging from as short as four nights to over three weeks, there’s going to be something for everyone to choose from. And, with almost all of these being from Southampton, you won’t need to worry about all the stress that comes with navigating an airport, either. That is, unless you plan to sail the Eastern Mediterranean, then you’ll need to fly out to Malta.
P&O Cruises’ summer sailings are always sell-out, so you shouldn’t hesitate to book your cabin if you’re interested in one of the available itineraries. You can find out more about all of them, and what to expect from each sailing, right here: P&O Cruises’ Summer 2027 Sailings
Iglu Cruises’ Top Blogs in April
When is the Best Time to Go On a Cruise?
Figuring out when the best time of the year to go on a cruise can be a tricky one, even more so if your holiday availability is limited or you’re working around the school holidays. But, fear not, for Iglu Cruise is here to help with this blog on when the best time to go on a cruise to different destinations around the world actually is. Sunshine and warm weather is never a bad thing, but the height of summer isn’t always the best time to cruise to certain parts of the world, and this blog will explain why – and give you some alternative options to consider when it comes to booking your next getaway.
Dream Cruises for your 2026 Travel Wish List
Cruising is a fantastic way to tick a few things off your travel wish list in one fell swoop, with incredible adventures and unbeatable bucket list experiences found in all four corners of the world. And, with cruise itineraries visiting all four corners of the world, with comfortable accommodation, excellent food, and tailor-made shore excursions to ensure you make the most of your time in these thrilling destinations, there’s never been a better time to book the getaway of a lifetime. But, knowing where to travel next can be tricky when there are so many fantastic options out there. So, if you’re looking for some ideas, we’ve hand-picked some of the most exciting 2026 cruises for you in this blog – from exploring ancient China and Antarctica to tiger-spotting safaris and some of the world’s most famous theme parks.
Best Family Cruise Destinations
If you’re looking forward to travelling with your family, but you’re not quite sure where in the world to go when the next school holiday rolls around, you’re in the right place. Here, we run through some of the top destinations for family cruises, when you should consider cruising there, and which cruise lines you’re going to want to keep an eye out for when it comes to picking a specific itinerary.
Book Your Next Adventure with Iglu Cruise Today
We don’t know about you, but all this cruise talk has us wanting to book our next getaway! If you’re looking for the latest cruise deals, Iglu Cruise has you covered. From all-inclusive packages and luxury sailings to solo adventures and last-minute offers, you’re certain to find something to suit your holiday preferences and needs. Whether you’re hoping to travel to some of the most remote regions in the world, explore ancient history through remarkable ruins, or soak up the sunshine on a stunning white-sand beach, cruising is the ultimate way to travel.
