WE’RE BACK! After an incredible journey on the brand-new MSC World America, we’re kicking off our return with a very special guest. In this episode of Tales from the Ship, we sit down with Leo to talk about the evolution of cruising, the hidden gems of the World America, and what it’s really like to live for the sea.

Join Captain Dan and First Mate Steph aboard the magnificent MSC World America for a long-awaited chat with a truly inspiring guest: Richard! After a busy week navigating the seas and the ship's activities, we finally found the perfect moment to sit down and discuss his incredible journey.

On this episode of Tales from the Ship, we welcome Smiley Abrams, founder of the Andy Abrams Foundation in Mississippi. Recorded aboard the MSC World America, Smiley shares his infectious enthusiasm for “bad” movies, why they matter more than you think, and how his personal mission extends far beyond the screen.

Listeners will hear:

• 🌍 The story behind the Andy Abrams Foundation, created to honor his father’s legacy and empower minority leaders in Mississippi through entrepreneurship, discipleship, scholarships, and community development.
• 💡 Smiley’s philosophy on finding purpose in unexpected places and building a life mission that blends humor, heart, and impact.

This episode is equal parts fun and inspiring — a reminder that passion projects and purposeful work can coexist beautifully.

In this week’s episode, we dive into a whirlwind of cruise updates—from Norwegian’s unusual hotel check-in for NCL Dawn passengers to the debut of an Elton John tribute show aboard NCL Luna. Carnival makes headlines with a tragic FBI investigation, a lifeboat mishap in Cozumel, and a quiet tweak to its drink package rules. Plus, loyalty program changes are pushed back to September 2026. Royal Caribbean responds to safety concerns by closing waterslides for repairs, MSC places a massive ship order for 2030 and beyond, and Disney faces heartbreak as a passenger goes overboard on the Wonder. And don’t miss this week’s travel tip: check your cruise line’s policy on hair tools—many are banned onboard but returned post-cruise.

Join us aboard the MSC World America as we sit down with Sara Waxman, Editor-in-Chief of DINE Magazine and one of the world’s most celebrated food critics, for a flavorful episode of Tales from the Ship. From her publishing roots to her globe-trotting culinary adventures, Sara shares her favorite places to eat, unforgettable dining experiences, and a few deliciously fun stories along the way.

Captain Dan takes the mic this week for First Mate Steph, diving into a whirlwind of cruise industry drama—from Norwegian’s guest-upsetting moves to Royal Caribbean’s crackdown on streamers, Virgin Voyages stepping up for cruisers, and Disney stirring debate with bold new policies.

Recorded aboard a cruise ship but rooted in the rhythms of the road, this episode of Tales from the Ship features a wide-ranging conversation with Adir, who’s currently exploring the United States one mile at a time. As he shares stories from his cross-country car adventure—peppered with cruise memories and cultural discoveries—Adir offers thoughtful reflections on freedom, connection, and the unexpected wisdom that comes from embracing the journey. It’s a soulful, scenic ride from ship to shore, and everywhere in between.

Continuing our series from the MSC World America, we sat down with Adrianna and Gian — a dynamic young couple whose journey spans from Puerto Rico to the palm-lined streets of The Villages, Florida. With infectious energy and heartfelt insight, they opened up about growing up surrounded by retirees, sharing how the wisdom of age shaped their views on life, service, and joy. From tales of good times and great hospitality to reflections on community, culture, and connection, this episode is packed with sunshine, stories, and SO. MUCH. MORE. Enjoy