The Weekly Helm Report - August 17 2025

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 ships—including LEGO parades and game shows in Galveston. MSC also reports a modest drop in carbon emissions, but warns of future challenges.

🎧 In this episode:

• Star of the Seas welcomes first guests
• Diana Ross bows out; astronaut Kellie Gerardi steps in
• Royal Caribbean celebrates 100 million guests
• MSC reroutes World Cruise, offers refunds
• MSC’s emissions progress—and future concerns
• Caribbean surge: 7 MSC ships in 2026–27