The Weekly Helm Report - October 26, 2025
Episode notes
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 in 2026. Carnival enforces its dining room punctuality policy and celebrates 25 years in Galveston, while Royal Caribbean unveils a two-story casino and faces backlash over a viral TikTok balcony stunt. MSC expands to Alaska and South Africa, Virgin’s Brilliant Lady debuts in Miami, and Celebrity cancels Haiti calls while welcoming the new Celebrity Xcel.