CCL-Carnival Cruise Line has announced modifications to select 2025 itineraries for its vessels, Carnival Venezia and Mardi Gras. The primary change involves substituting the scheduled port of Grand Turk with Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic. This adjustment affects the Carnival Venezia sailings on May 11, May 26, and June 9, 2025, as well as the Mardi Gras sailing on June 7, 2025.
The decision to replace Grand Turk with Amber Cove is attributed to operational considerations. While specific reasons have not been disclosed, such changes are not uncommon in the cruise industry and can result from various factors, including port scheduling conflicts or infrastructure limitations.
Amber Cove, a 25-acre private destination operated by Carnival, offers a range of amenities and excursions. Guests can enjoy a large pool with a swim-up bar, local Dominican cuisine, zip-lining, and access to nearby attractions such as the 27 Waterfalls and Puerto Plata's colonial center.
Carnival has communicated these itinerary changes to affected passengers, providing a US$50 onboard credit per stateroom as a gesture of goodwill. Additionally, pre-purchased shore excursions for Grand Turk will be automatically adjusted to Amber Cove equivalents where possible, or refunded to the original form of payment if no suitable alternatives are available.
The Carnival Venezia, departing from New York City, and the Mardi Gras, departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida), will maintain their overall cruise durations despite the port substitution. Minor adjustments to port arrival and departure times may occur to accommodate the new itinerary.
Passengers are advised to review their updated itineraries and excursion options through Carnival's official channels to stay informed about any further changes.