One of the benefits of opting for a cruise vacation is that you never have to worry about where you’ll eat. Be it quick-serve, room service, the dining room, or specialty restaurants, most lines have you covered with a plethora of meal options.

That’s certainly the case on Holland America Line’s Pinnacle Class ships. I recently had the opportunity to join a 5-day North Sea sailing on board the new Rotterdam and not once did I feel even the slightest twinge of hunger. With HAL’s commitment to dining excellence and experience via their Culinary Council, there’s something to please every palate from haute cuisine to fast-food favorites.

Here are a few dishes that really shone during my sailing, listed in no particular order. 

1. Cashew Barramundi With Red Thai Curry

Tamarind

Tamarind is one of several specialty restaurants on board HAL’s Pinnacle ships. While you’ll pay an upcharge to dine here, it’s well worth it. The Asian-fusion menu blends Chinese, Southeast Asian, and Japanese flavors for a meal that truly stands out, even on a ship with so many dining options! Many of the sharable appetizer plates were seafood-forward and delicious, but there were starters for carnivores and vegetarians as well. I opted for the barramundi as my entrée; the Asian sea bass was prepared perfectly, as were the veggies sauteed on the side. Thai basil gave the entire dish a perfect, herbaceous zip.

2. Specialty Sushi Rolls

Nami

On a different night, I decided to head to Nami to get my sushi fix. Like all of the seafood served on board, the rolls I sampled were incredibly fresh and the quality of the cuts stood on their own. They were simply served; no funky sauces or a bunch of other ingredients to get in the way. The other thing I loved about Nami is that it’s a small, quiet space, and you can easily snag a seat at the bar if you want to watch the expert chefs at work. This is also a specialty restaurant, but unlike Tamarind, you pay ala carte as opposed to prix fixe.

3. Dover Sole Meuniere

Rudy’s Sel De Mer

Of course, I wanted to get the French-Med take on the bountiful seafood and produce on board, so I also had dinner at Rudy’s Sel de Mer. While the smoked salmon was a visual showstopper (served under a glass cloche that emitted a delicate puff of smoke when lifted at the table), and the baguette and various tapenades served before my meal were terrific, I really loved the whole Dover sole meuniere. The flat, delicate fish was cooked in the traditional way, sauteed to simple perfection with tapenade, lemon, and fresh parsley on the side. 

4. Filet Mignon

Pinnacle Grill

Lest you think Holland America’s culinary offerings only target pescatarians, let’s move on to the Pinnacle Grill — the specialty steak and chophouse. Here’s where you’ll get your red meat fix in, with cuts of aged beef in all sizes and styles. I couldn’t even think about putting away a porterhouse on my own, so I opted for the petite filet mignon. It was so tender and delicate, yet had that robust beefy flavor you’d expect from such a fine cut. I paired mine with asparagus, but the mac and cheese looked divine, as did the famous clothesline candied bacon appetizer!

5. Chopped Steak Dinner

Main Dining Room

I was fortunate to be on board one of Holland America’s Heritage sailings, designed to celebrate the line’s 150th anniversary. There were lectures and artifacts detailing HAL’s history, and that rich tradition also came through on the menu. One evening, we were all invited to sample entrées from archived menus. I chose the chopped steak. It reminded me a bit of an extremely elevated TV dinner, in the best way possible. It was a nostalgic and delicious taste of the past, and I’m sure such dishes provided comfort to the thousands of immigrants Holland America transported to their new homes in America or Canada.

6. Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict

Main Dining Room

I’m not going to lie, when cruising, I usually opt for a room service breakfast. It allows me to get a great workout in, eat in the privacy of my room, then shower and go. That said, getting dressed early and heading to the dining room for Holland America’s Dungeness crab eggs Benedict was well worth the effort. The chefs took an already decadent dish and elevated it with sweet crab and asparagus… but it wasn’t so heavy that I felt weighed down. It was a brilliant breakfast and got me well-fueled for the day ahead.

7. Dutch High Tea

Dining Room

When I noticed a traditional Dutch tea service was on offer during my sailing, I decided to make time and save room for it. I was so glad I did and the experience definitely qualified as an entire meal! The tea, while black and not my preference of green, was steeped lightly enough that a tiny splash of cream cut the malty taste. Everyone taking part was presented with a traditional silver high tea stand, with traditional sandwiches at the bottom (watercress and smoked salmon, of course!) and decadent pastries toward the top. It was the perfect midday meal!

8. Desserts

Grand Dutch Café

Finally, the essential question: Desserts qualify as a meal, right? If you’re on vacation, absolutely. And to find some of the best on HAL’s Pinnacle Class ships, head straight to the Grand Dutch Café. Here, you’ll find light cocktails, specialty coffees including lattes, and the most decadent desserts ever. Pastry fans will love the Poffertjes, or Dutch pancakes, but my favorite was the Bossche bol — an enormous chocolate-covered cream puff.

Pro Tip: If you think you want to dine at one of HAL’s specialty restaurants on board its Pinnacle Line ships (and you should!) make sure to book your reservations ahead. These hotspots often fill up quickly.

These cruise lines have been recognized for their exceptional service, luxurious amenities, unforgettable experiences, and unparalleled customer satisfaction. So, without further ado, let’s embark on a journey to discover the best cruise lines, as chosen by our readers.

1. Royal Caribbean International (Winner)

Royal Caribbean International takes the top spot on our list and it’s no surprise why. With their innovative ships, thrilling onboard activities like rock climbing and surfing, Broadway-style entertainment, and world-class dining options, Royal Caribbean offers an unforgettable experience for all travelers. From Caribbean adventures to Mediterranean voyages, their itineraries cater to diverse interests, ensuring a truly remarkable cruise experience.

2. Viking Cruises

Last year’s winner gets knocked down to #2. Renowned for its elegant ships and immersive cultural experiences, Viking Cruises takes cruising to a whole new level. Offering destination-focused itineraries and smaller vessels that can navigate through picturesque rivers and stunning coastlines, Viking Cruises provides a more intimate and enriching journey. Impeccable service, enriching onboard lectures, and exquisite regional cuisine make each voyage with Viking a true exploration of culture and history.

Taking a cruise with Viking? Here are 11 Viking Cruise Line Secrets No One Tells You and 5 Important Things To Do To Prepare For Your Viking Cruise.

3. Holland America Line

Coming in third place, Holland America Line combines timeless elegance with modern amenities, appealing to discerning travelers seeking refined experiences. With a fleet of mid-sized ships, Holland America Line provides an intimate atmosphere and personalized service. From Alaska’s breathtaking glaciers to Europe’s captivating ports, their carefully curated itineraries offer a mix of iconic destinations and hidden gems. Culinary delights, engaging enrichment programs, and an array of entertainment options further elevate the onboard experience.

4. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises has been enchanting passengers for decades with its dedication to exceptional service and a diverse range of itineraries. Known for luxurious ships, Princess Cruises offers a plethora of onboard activities, including world-class entertainment, gourmet dining, and rejuvenating spa experiences. Whether you’re sailing through the stunning fjords of Norway or exploring the tropical paradise of the South Pacific, Princess Cruises ensures a seamless vacation filled with unforgettable moments.

5. Celebrity Cruises

For those seeking a sophisticated and upscale cruising experience, Celebrity Cruises is a perfect choice. Combining modern luxury, stylish design, and exceptional service, their ships redefine elegance on the high seas. For foodies, Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of specialty dining options and culinary-centric onboard activities, including cooking classes and wine tastings. From the stunning beaches of the Caribbean to the iconic landmarks of Europe, itineraries cater to both relaxation and exploration.

6. Disney Cruise Line

A favorite among families, Disney Cruise Line ensures a magical and unforgettable vacation for both children and adults alike. Combining Disney’s signature entertainment, character meet-and-greets, and Broadway-style shows with world-class dining and exciting deck parties, Disney Cruise Line creates an immersive experience that transports guests into a fairy-tale world. From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, their itineraries offer enchanting destinations and exceptional service that keeps families coming back for more.

7. Norwegian Cruise Line

Synonymous with freedom and flexibility, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a Freestyle Cruising experience that allows passengers to create their own perfect vacation. With a wide range of dining options, exciting entertainment choices, and a multitude of onboard activities, Norwegian Cruise Line ensures that every guest can tailor their experience to suit their preferences. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure on the water slides or a peaceful retreat at the spa, Norwegian Cruise Line has it all. Their diverse itineraries, which span from the Caribbean to Europe and beyond, provide ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.

8. Carnival Cruise Line

Its lively and fun-filled atmosphere makes Carnival Cruise Line a top choice for those seeking a vibrant and energetic cruise experience. Carnival offers an array of exciting onboard activities, from water parks and thrilling waterslides to high-energy shows and lively nightclubs. Dining options cater to every taste and preference, ensuring a delightful culinary journey. Carnival Cruise Line’s itineraries cover a wide range of destinations, including the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas, promising sun-soaked adventures and unforgettable memories for all.

Our readers have spoken, and these eight cruise lines have emerged as the top choices in the industry. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or family fun, these cruise lines have proven their excellence in providing exceptional experiences. With their diverse itineraries, luxurious amenities, attentive service, and commitment to guest satisfaction, these cruise lines offer the perfect getaway for travelers of all ages and interests. Embark on a journey with any of these cruise lines and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime. Bon voyage!

Related Reading:

• I Just Sailed On Royal Caribbean With My Grandchildren — Here Are My 10 Key Tips
• 6 Cruise Splurges Our Experts Say Are Worth Every Penny
• I Just Went On My First Solo Cruise — 5 Reasons I Can’t Wait To Do It Again

A cruise is a great way to explore the Mediterranean’s diverse culture, captivating history, stunning beauty, and of course, delectable cuisine — all while unpacking your suitcase just once. Our readers’ top 10 offers a variety of cruise experiences sure to suit every style.

1. Viking Cruises (Winner)

Viking’s goal is to immerse passengers in each destination through uniquely curated excursions and onboard presentations. Viking’s ocean ships are designed to access almost any port, giving you more time on the ground to explore with at least one free shore excursion included at every port — a Viking signature.

The onboard atmosphere is relaxed yet elegant with Viking’s minimalist, but beautiful, Scandinavian design throughout. Passengers love it because they’re not nickel-and-dimed once on board. The price you see includes free Wi-Fi, beer, wine, and soft drinks with meals, dining at any restaurant, and access to Viking’s unique Nordic Spa, with its exhilarating Snow Grotto, while onboard.

There are additional paid excursions offered at each port as well, and you can upgrade your beverage package to include additional wine and liquor options if you wish. One thing to know: All Viking guests must be 18 years or older.

2. Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean sails several sizes of ships through the Mediterranean with anywhere from 2,700 to nearly 5,000 guests. While the goal in the Med is to get off the ship and explore the unique cultural options while in port, Royal Caribbean creates an environment where you don’t really need to leave the ship if you don’t want to.

The ships have an exhaustive list of onboard experiences including nightly live entertainment, specialty dining options, areas to play sports like pickleball, pools, and everything from salsa dancing to jewelry-making classes. The larger ships simply come with more to do, for everyone in the family, including waterslides, roller skating, and even bumper cars.

If you’re considering a Royal Caribbean cruise with grandkids, check out these tips.

3. Holland America Line

Holland America is marking a major milestone this year celebrating its 150th Anniversary. In the late 1800s, Holland first sailed immigrants looking for a new start from Europe to America. In fact, 10 percent of all immigrants sailed over on what was then called the Netherlands-American  Steamship Company. Today, the cruise line hosts Americans, and of course other nationalities, on its ships in the Mediterranean showing off the region’s vibrant and diverse cultures with thousands of unique excursions.

While the experiences off the ship are amazing, passengers also love the delicious cuisine on board. Holland America also has what they call “Collectors’ Voyages” allowing guests to book back-to-back trips, so you only have to unpack once, but enjoy twice as many destinations.

4. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises describes itself as a “relaxed luxury resort at sea.” The cruise line provides a modern, yet dignified experience on board. Experience distinguished cuisine and cocktails, Broadway-quality shows and live music, plus enrichment and educational options that satisfy even the most inquisitive passenger. 

To top it off, Celebrity focuses on exceptional service, leaving passengers wanting nothing more.

5. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line, or NCL, is known for bringing “freestyle cruising” to the industry. That means cruising the way you want, on your schedule, to enjoy your vacation, your way. You can leave your tux at home, there aren’t any set dinner times, and you’re not assigned to dine with the same group every night.

NCL also pays attention to solo travelers with studio rooms specifically designed for them. The set-up helps solo travelers avoid the dreaded single supplement.

Of course, NCL also offers quality entertainment, experiences, and cuisine. 

6. Disney Cruise Line

With Disney in the name, you know kids are going to love a Disney Cruise. Stories have been told of parents losing their children to the amazing, kids-only, onboard experiences day after day. While being a kid-at-heart always helps, Disney’s adults-only areas and attention to detail are what keep parents, and even travelers without children, coming back.

It’s obviously not all about Mickey when you’re exploring destinations with such a richness of culture as those in the Mediterranean. Disney’s meticulous service transitions seamlessly to its excursions offered on shore.

7. Oceania Cruises

One of the luxury cruise lines on the list, Oceania Cruises offers personalized service, a refined atmosphere on board, and amazing dining. In fact, they’ve trademarked the phrase “The Finest Cuisine at Sea.” Famed French Chef Jacques Pepin has been the cruise line’s executive culinary director since 2003 and his attention to culinary detail shows in every dish presented. 

Oceania also maximizes its time in port with extended stays, immersive “Go Local” and “Go Green” excursions, and small group sizes. There’s evening entertainment, shopping, and even a casino on board, so you’ll need a variety of outfits to transition from day to night.

Oceania’s ships hold between 684 and 1,250 guests depending on the ship you choose. 

8. Princess Cruises

The original Love Boat, Princess Cruises prides itself on its “Local Connections” experience — pairing passengers with locals in each port to learn about the region from those who live there. The immersive experience on its Mediterranean cruises continues on board with regional dancers, chefs, and musicians.

There are also plenty of dining, cocktail, and entertainment opportunities on board, including productions from Wicked Composer Stephen Schwartz.

Princess plans to debut two new ships in the Mediterranean in 2025: Sun Princess and Star Princess. Both ships will carry more than 4,000 passengers.

9. Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises is known as a small ship leader in the industry with its vessels holding between a mere 148 and 350 passengers. Their small ships allow passengers time in ports that larger ships can’t access, like Old Town Dubrovnik in Croatia. One unique experience when you sail with Windstar is the opportunity to visit local markets with the ship’s chef. Windstar also partners with the James Beard Foundation, bringing the expertise of some of the most sought-after chefs in the world to your daily dining experience.

Another special treat, Windstar’s Watersports Platform gives you access to the Mediterranean’s beautiful blue water straight from the ship. Kayak, snorkel, stand-up paddleboard, or just jump right in.

Passengers love Windstar’s comfortable elegance and immersive shore excursions. 

10. Celestyal Cruises

It may be number 10 on the list, but Celestyal Cruises is number one in the hearts of passengers looking for an authentic Greek cruising experience. In fact, the cruise line prides itself on being Greek cruising experts. Greek culture is part of everything they do. Learn a bit of the Greek language or a traditional dance while on board. Enjoy authentic cuisine and cocktails at every meal, then take the experience even deeper with shore excursions carefully curated by its experts.

Celestyal Cruises also explores other areas of the eastern Mediterranean including Turkey, Egypt, Cyprus, and Israel.

Finally, hear it straight from the expert — one of Celestyal’s seasoned captains shared his eight essential tips for cruising the Greek Islands with us.

Read more from our 2023 Best Of Travel Awards.

There are many reasons to take a solo cruise. I leaped at the chance to experience the Celebrity Beyond — Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship. I was physically and emotionally exhausted after caring for my mother prior to her death and funeral 2 weeks prior. The opportunity to get away and not have to worry about anyone but myself was a welcome respite. I looked forward to spa treatments and fabulous meals I didn’t have to cook myself. 

Celebrity Cruises invited me on a culinary-themed Press Trip on the Celebrity Beyond. I traveled solo and had my own cabin. The press trip had some organized group activities all with people I did not know prior to the trip. I felt like I got the solo experience and would do it again. One of the things I noticed on my cruise was how friendly other guests were toward me when I was alone. One of the things many cruisers look forward to is meeting new people. This is a plus when you are traveling solo. You can interact with others as much or as little as you like.

Some solo travelers enjoy the opportunity to be on their own schedule without input from others. Some have the time and money to get away but no one to travel with. I recommend just going and here are the reasons why.

1. Solo Cabins

The Celebrity Beyond offers 32 single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda. These rooms really cater to the solo traveler and are some of the best of any cruise line that offers solo travel. The Edge Single Stateroom with an Infinite Veranda is 184 square feet with a 42-square-foot veranda. The Infinite Veranda is a game-changer as it is part of the room with solid walls to the left and right. With the flick of a switch, the glass wall lowers, creating the veranda. 

These rooms offer plenty of space for the solo cruiser and are not much smaller than the Edge Stateroom with an Infinite Veranda at 243 square feet and a 42-square-foot veranda. The Celebrity Beyond is a new ship and the décor in all the cabins is modern and fresh with the latest in design and technology. You can even control aspects of your room from the Celebrity App. For example, on an extra hot day, you can use the app to turn the temperature down so your room is cool when you return.

2. Classes And Activities

During the press trip, I participated in some group activities such as a mixology class at the World Class Bar. This fun class is also available to book for guests on the ship and is an easy way to meet people on the cruise due to the intimate nature of the class. I got to prepare three craft cocktails under the expert tutelage of our helpful bartender Nico. It was such an enjoyable time and classmates mingled afterward while enjoying our creations.

Check the daily bulletin provided in your cabin each night for a variety of classes and activities offered on board each day. A nice feature of the Celebrity App is how you can access this information prior to your cruise so you can plan. If you are an early riser, enjoy a morning stretch class. If you’re into art, enjoy adult coloring or other crafts. Dance classes are offered at various times on the ship and even in the pool. There is no lack of classes or activities to enjoy on board. It is a great way to meet other guests who have a shared interest with you.

3. Facebook Groups

Prior to sailing on this cruise, I joined the Celebrity Beyond Facebook group, which held a wealth of information about my upcoming trip. There are so many experienced cruisers available to answer any of your questions. Within these ship groups, someone will start a group for a specific cruise date. This is a great way to connect and meet people prior to your trip. The group I joined set up a sail-away event with 31 people responding to attend. The leader arranged a meeting spot with a Facebook sign and name tags. I found the group very helpful, friendly, and eager to answer questions. I saw a few members plan a shore excursion together prior to sailing. One person even posted about their parents’ first cruise and found people to watch out for them.

4. Shore Excursions

I recommend booking excursions through the ship especially if you are traveling alone. This way the ship’s crew knows you are on a specific excursion and that you made it back on the ship. In case the excursion is late or has an emergency, Celebrity will handle the arrangements to get you back to the ship. In addition to the peace of mind, when you book the excursion, you’ll also be with a group from your ship. Each cruise line is popular with different demographics. For example, if you are on a luxury cruise with the majority of the guests over 50, you might not enjoy hanging out with 20-somethings in a party mode or small children if you left your grandchildren at home. I enjoyed the shore excursions I booked through Celebrity. All were well run and there was such a variety of options. Even though the ship was 100 percent booked, there were plenty of excursions still available to book once on board.

Pro Tip: The Celebrity Beyond also offers tours aboard ship on days at sea. Guests can book Bridge Tours or Inside Access: Behind the Scenes Ship Tours. Both of these are very popular and sell out fast so you will want to book prior to your cruise.

5. Solo Dining 

For many new solo travelers, the idea of dining alone is fraught with anxiety, but it doesn’t need to be, especially on the Celebrity Beyond. The ship has 32 restaurants and bars that truly offer something for everyone. The main dining rooms offer you the opportunity to be seated with other guests. Just ask when you check in. There is often a table set aside for solo travelers. There are also hidden gems like the Spa Cafe where you can enjoy healthy nibbles in a quiet atmosphere.

The premium restaurants are enjoyable for solo travelers because, with the excellent service, you’ll never be alone. Ask plenty of questions about the food and interact with the sommelier for advice on pairing. My favorite premium restaurant was Eden. The food was so innovative and I loved the open-kitchen concept. There is so much activity going on in the kitchen and it is intriguing to watch the creativity involved with the preparation and the artistic plating of your meal — truly memorable.

Tips From Celebrity On Solo Cruises

The Celebrity website has a wealth of information, especially for solo cruises. I found their tips to meet new friends on board very helpful. Celebrity encourages solo travelers to get to know the crew; who are from all over the world. There are many intimate bars on board the ship. Choose one that fits your vibe and get to know the bartender. It’s fun to sit at the bar and watch cocktails being made. Another suggestion is to get to know the cruise director. Their job is to make sure everyone is having fun. Introduce yourself and let them know you are traveling solo. They can give you pro tips on activities and entertainment you might enjoy. The site also has lots of information on which ships have solo cabins and good itineraries for solo travelers.

Don’t let the lack of a companion keep you from traveling. A cruise is a safe and fun way to get out and see the world while solo.

Pro Tip: The first quarter of the year is known as “Wave Season” and is typically the best time for cruise deals and promotions. Some cruise lines also offer low or no single supplements (the cost you pay when booking a double cabin while sailing alone). Celebrity waived the single supplement on more than 275 cruises through March 2023. Promotions and sales constantly change, so if you see something you like, make sure to book it.

Related Reading: 

• 6 Cruise Splurges Our Experts Say Are Worth Every Penny
• 8 Reasons You Should Consider Taking Back-To-Back Cruises
• 4 Amazing Cruise Deals To Book Right Now, Plus Tips For Picking The Perfect Destination

If you think luggage is just luggage, no matter where you’re going or what kind of trip you’re taking, it might be time to think again. Especially when it comes to cruising, there are some things to think about regarding your luggage that you don’t need to consider when flying, driving, or taking the train.

The main issue is the space inside most cabins. Anyone who’s been on a cruise knows cabins can be a little on the snug side and you might not have much space to store your luggage. Then there’s the fact that you’ll be spending many of your days on land excursions and you’ll need a suitable bag for the whole day. I’ve taken a look at the best luggage items to take on a cruise, from backpacks for a land excursion to check-in suitcases, and everything in between.

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Medium Expandable Spinner

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Perfect for a 7- or 10-day cruise, the Medium Expandable Spinner has some brilliant organizational features. There’s a large zip-around pocket inside, plus two smaller mesh pockets, that make packing much easier. I love how lightweight this case is. It’s nice and spacious and a good size for a cruise, but it’s really easy to maneuver and doesn’t feel cumbersome at all. It glides around on its double-spinner wheels and I found it easy to travel with, even to wheel around an airport and get from taxi to port. It also looks really smart and has a leather personalized patch where you can have your initials monogrammed, so you always know it’s your case.

Favorite Features

• TSA-friendly combination lock
• Adjustable garment compression panels to keep clothing flat
• Expansion and compression system that can increase space by 17 percent
• Strong and durable shell

Craghopper 22-Inch Wheelie 40L

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A combination between a carry-on case and a durable bag, the Craghopper Wheelie is perfect for anyone who travels light and for day excursions on land. It’s spacious inside and has two front-zipped compartments that are perfect for a laptop and a tablet. This carry-on is especially great for a cruise as the soft material and shell mean it can be easily stored in your cabin. You can store it with other items on top of it as the fabric and shell provide space for stacking. I love how it looks like a backpack but behaves like a small suitcase.

Favorite Features

• Water-repellent
• Padding throughout to protect your items
• Internal organizer pockets
• Cut-resistant safety pocket with RFID protection

Away Flex Suitcase

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As it suggests in the name, the Away Flex Suitcase is very flexible. When you unzip the flex feature, it creates an extra 2.25 inches of space, so it’s perfect for leaving room for bringing home souvenirs. Without the flex, it’s a carry-on, and with the flex, it’s a checked case. If you take a larger flex case and the carry-on, you can nest one inside the other in your cabin to save space. What I really love about this case is the little details they’ve added. There’s a handle on the bottom of the case, between the wheels. It might seem like a strange place for a handle, but when you’re at the baggage carousel and you need to pick up your case quickly, it comes in very handy.

Favorite Features

• TSA-approved combination lock
• Hidden laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate
• Durable hardshell
• Black leather luggage tag

Nomatic Travel Pack

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The Nomatic Travel Pack is a backpack that packs like a suitcase. If you like to travel light and your cruise is fairly short, you can pack all your items in this pack and carry it like any backpack. It’s a slim and sleek bag, but it’s deceptively spacious inside and expands when you need to fit more in. It has water-bottle holders on each side, like a backpack, but inside it has zip-up sections for packing clothes and a large pocket for shoes or a laptop. If you can pack this light, it’s ideal for a cruise as it doubles as a lightweight backpack for land excursions.

Favorite Features

• Water-resistant
• Sunglasses case
• Magnetic water-bottle pockets
• Side handle to carry like a briefcase

Monos Metro Duffel Bag

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If you have checked-in luggage, which you probably do for a cruise, this Metro Duffle Bag is a spacious and versatile carry-on bag that works perfectly as a day bag for land excursions. You can travel with it if you’re flying to your port destination and it fits a whole world of items inside it. You can easily get a laptop in the bag and it has lots of great zip compartments and pockets for your passport, water bottle, and even your umbrella if you think you’ll need it. What I really love is the switch system. The bag comes with a metro kit, where you can fit lots of small items, and this attaches and detaches for when you want to take it with you and when you don’t.

Favorite Features

• Trolley sleeve that fits around your suitcase handle and keeps all your luggage together
• Water-resistant
• Vegan leather
• Adjustable, removable shoulder strap

Globe Trotter Safari Trunk

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Take it right back to the golden age of glamor travel with this classic-looking trunk. It is definitely the most-spacious luggage on the list and also the most beautiful in design. It’s inspired by the original steamer trunks that were made for the cabins on steamer ships, but unlike classic trunks, this one has four wheels and is easy to move around. It is large, yes, but that means you can pack a lot into it. If you’re lucky enough to have booked a suite on a cruise, you won’t have any trouble storing this trunk. Otherwise, it doubles nicely as a little stand or table.

Favorite Features

• Leather corners and straps to protect the trunk
• 100-liter capacity
• Carbon-steel locks
• Each individual case has its own unique serial number.

Just south of San Diego, on a strip of land that more than 12 million years ago decided to go its own way, travelers can find a region of the world that has evolved into a natural paradise. The Baja California Peninsula in Mexico features a desert landscape that stretches for almost 800 miles — from Tijuana in the north to Cabo San Lucas at the southern tip.

Separating the peninsula from the mainland is a magical waterway known as the “Aquarium of the World.” 

The Sea of Cortés, also called the Gulf of California and the Vermillion Sea (for its majestic brilliant red sunsets), is where I spent a week hosted by UnCruise Adventures, joining 53 fellow travelers who reveled in the chance to dive deep into the history, culture, and adventures available at this special destination.

Here’s why I loved experiencing the Sea of Cortés with UnCruise and why you will, too.

Editor’s Note: To learn more about the Sea of Cortés and why it’s called the Aquarium of the World, check out Jo-Anne Bowen’s 4 Favorite Small Ports To Experience Along Baja’s Sea Of Cortes.

1. A Superb Learning Opportunity

Look at a map and you’ll notice the long finger of land below California that sticks out into the Pacific Ocean. This is a result of tectonic plates crashing together oh so many millennia ago. The Baja California Peninsula was once part of the North American Plate, but it has since been ripped away after a collision with the Pacific Plate. It’s slowly being pulled away from the mainland and eventually will become an island, a detail that we learned during enrichment chats with UnCruise expedition team members during our sailing. 

The result is that the Sea of Cortés and the region feature a mix of characteristics and climate that makes it a fantastic haven for marine and land-based biodiversity. An expedition cruise is an ideal way to explore this place, and UnCruise has been coming here for more than 2 decades on its intimate sailings. 

During your small-ship cruise in the Sea of Cortés, members of the expedition team constantly offer up interesting bits of history about the region, and they are especially keen to feed you knowledge about the marine wildlife and mysteries of the desert while snorkeling and kayaking in the waters and hiking in the rocky hills (more on these activities below). 

We had a guide who took us through the town of Loreto and told us about the history of the first capital of Baja California and its historic mission, which Jesuits started in the Spanish territory in 1697. Today, you can visit the beautiful church that has been here since 1744. 

Each evening on the UnCruise Adventures cruise ship Safari Voyager, a member of the expedition team gave an enrichment talk. The passionate guides are experts in topics like marine biology, photography, sustainable tourism, and more. We learned about whales, birds, the stars and planets we could see in the night sky, and the culture and indigenous people of the region during various enlightening sessions. 

Of course, getting out each day for our adventurous activities delivered even more information for our curious group of travelers. 

2. Whale Watching 

Whales migrate each December to the region off the Pacific Coast of Baja California. The mothers come to the area because it provides a great haven for birthing and feeding newborns. We saw hundreds of whales in the waters close to shore as we hugged the coast for more than an hour during a drive from San Jose del Cabo (our arrival airport for the trip) up to La Paz (where we joined the ship for our voyage). 

This preview of the great creatures meant that there was a definite buzz among my fellow cruisers when it was time to head to Puerto Alfredo Lopez Mateos for a whale-watching tour in Magdalena Bay. We piled into panga boats, eight at a time, to motor out to see dozens of gray whale mothers and calves active in the safe harbor. Many of these impressive animals emerged time and again close to our boats to splash around and blow spouts of mist into the breezes. It’s a memorable and moving experience. This was all on top of the several humpback whale sightings that we enjoyed from the outer decks of Safari Voyager during our week in the Sea of Cortés. 

Pro Tip: Bring a good, brimmed hat, plenty of sunscreen, and a scarf or buff (neck gaiter) to help protect from the sun. These come in equally handy when you’re out on excursions or outer decks of the ship. 

3. Snorkel With Sea Lions 

Snorkeling in the Sea of Cortés is wonderful, of course. But diving in and hanging out with playful sea lion pups had us screaming with delight. UnCruise arranges a great snorkeling day at Los Islotes, a small islet that serves as a California sea lion colony at the end of Isla Espiritu Santo, which sits just off the coast of La Paz and is among more than 240 islands designated since 2005 as a protected UNESCO World Heritage site. 

UnCruise Adventures offers two options for enjoying this site: Cruisers can stay on a small boat and explore the waters and rocky outcroppings on a photo safari, snapping pictures and watching the massive adult sea lions lazing on the rocks or wrestling for dominance while they keep a close watch on the boisterous pups in the water. 

I elected to try the second option, choosing to squeeze into a wetsuit and jump into the sea for a thrilling swim with the sea lions. The pups are curious and bursting with energy; they zoomed around us, blew bubbles in our snorkel masks, and nibbled at our flippers. We spent almost an hour in the water led by guides who explained the rules of engagement with the animals and how the encounter would play out. 

We slid off the boat and into the water, and almost immediately were surrounded by youngsters eager to show off for their guests. We watched them dive and spin and twist and leap from the water. We were so transfixed by the encounter, amazed that we were able to see them so close in their habitat that the time flew by, and most of us groaned when told we had to head back to the boat. 

4. Challenging Climbs

And More Gentle Hikes And Walks, Too

Exciting off-the-grid hikes are embedded in the DNA of the UnCruise experience. Sure enough, the guides scout out some great ones in Baja California Sur, as well. 

At Espiritu Santo, we scrambled up an arroyo (a dry creek or stream bed that fills up during rains) that is littered with big boulders and loose rocks before we scaled the hillside to reach a windy overlook. Down in the bay, we saw the green waters, skies filled with puffy clouds, and our ship, Safari Voyager, awaiting our return for lunch. 

Two more hard hikes were featured during our week. The expedition team also finds more gentle hiking options, so people have choices. This means you can find something to suit your abilities or mood each day. 

We enjoyed a thrilling (and grueling) 7-mile quad-burner during our port stop at Puerto Escondido when 16 of us went off to pick our way up Tabor Canyon (also called Steinbeck Canyon because the author hiked here during his time on the coast of Baja). The boulders were even bigger and we used our hands and feet to forge our way through the beautiful canyon before reaching a big water hole, where a few of us jumped in for a refreshing dunk. 

Pro Tip: Bring sturdy footwear that gives good ankle support. UnCruise provides walking poles to use during hikes. You’ll also want to be sure to wear layers (long-sleeve shirts and hiking pants) that you can peel off. This is because temperatures vary in the ravines and up on the top of the mountains where you will hike. There might be cactuses and other plants that can scratch you up if you are wearing shorts or a skirt rather than pants. 

5. Delicious Eats

UnCruise offers an incredible array of delicious cuisine on its modest small ships. This includes regional specialties and a mix of creative options with meat, seafood, and vegetarian options available at every meal. We fueled our big hikes and other activities (or replenished afterward) with great dishes like red snapper, portobello stuffed with quinoa, grouper, short ribs, ratatouille, duck with raspberry and white wine reduction, Baja-style roasted chicken, and black bean sopes. The list goes on.

Plus, the pastry chef kept serving up jaw-dropping sweet treats like passionfruit cheesecake and banana cake with chocolate mousse topped with salted caramel popcorn. We also flocked to the lounge daily for 3 p.m. cookie time, when we could grab pecan sandies, chocolate chips, peanut butter, sugar cookies, and chocolate brownies. Breakfast also came with goodies like lemon-glazed strawberry fritters and cinnamon rolls the size of your face.

Are we hiking so much to burn off the calories, or eating so much to have energy for our excursions each day? You can look at it any way you like. It just works out as the perfect formula for a pleasurable trip.

6. Jawdropping Sunrises, Sunsets, And Scenery

The sunsets and sunrises over the Sea of Cortés by themselves are worth the journey. During our week-long cruise in early February, I would rise each day for my morning workout and stretch at the small gym area on the ship’s sun deck. Often, the only company I had for those first few moments before 7 a.m. was the sun rising between mountain peaks and the bright moon still visible in the other direction.

It was a great way to start the day. The sunrises and sunsets are both brilliant in the Sea of Cortés, with colors ranging from pink and purple-hued pastels to bright reds.

The surrounding mountains, blue skies, shapely bays and coves, and brown pelicans following our ship on the breezes provided a magical setting in each new spot we sailed. We also had several occasions when we could see mobula rays flying from the sea, humpbacks slapping their tails in the distance, and pods of dolphins just passing by.

Pro Tip: Carry your binoculars around when out on the deck (the ship provides two pairs in each room) because you will often see wildlife at play.

A sesquicentennial — or 150th anniversary — is quite an achievement in any industry. However, you’ve got to have serious staying power to make it that long in the travel business, and Holland America Line is getting ready to celebrate this special landmark in a big way.

When Rotterdam I made its maiden voyage across the Atlantic from the Netherlands to New York City, it began a long and storied sailing history. It’s one that includes a rich immigrant tradition and a strong commitment to onboard excellence that’s been there since the line’s beginning.

Here’s how Holland America is pulling out all the stops when it comes to the 15-decade milestone.

How Holland America Is Commemorating Its 150th Anniversary

The year-long celebration actually kicked off last October when Holland America launched its first special 150th-anniversary trans-Atlantic crossing. The newest Pinnacle-class ship in Holland America’s fleet — the Rotterdam — left its namesake city on October 15, 2022, exactly 150 years after Rotterdam I did the same in 1872. The 2022 crossing recreated the iconic first voyage, traveling from Rotterdam to New York, with calls at Plymouth and Dover in the United Kingdom. Rotterdam stayed overnight in New York City for special celebrations, then traveled down the eastern seaboard to its final destination in Fort Lauderdale.

The experience proved so popular with guests that Holland America scheduled another commemorative cruise — with destinations in reverse order — coming up in April. The 16-night adventure starts in Fort Lauderdale and ends up back in Rotterdam for another 150th-anniversary bash on board the ship on April 18 — marking the actual founding of the cruise line.

“As we got deeper into planning the events surrounding our 150th, we knew that the best place to celebrate the date of our founding was in the city of Rotterdam where it all started,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “These voyages that mark our first departure and our anniversary are going to be incredibly memorable as we retrace our first sailing from the 1870s, but on a modern, luxury cruise ship. We anticipate the April cruise to be as popular as the October sailing.”

The Company’s Immigrant Backstory

Holland America Line was founded in the Netherlands in 1873 as the Netherlands-American Steamship Company. It brought immigrants from all over Europe to the United States well into the 1900s, carrying almost 2 million people to new lives and new homes across the ocean.

Holland America Line treated these passengers as guests, renaming its “steerage class” to the more accurate “emigrants’ class.” Staff also saw to it that each person on board got three meals a day and as much comfort as possible. That level of care earned the cruise company a fitting nickname: “The Spotless Fleet.”

During its immigration heyday, the company also provided onboard doctors and a pre-departure hotel, plus English lessons and classes on American civics, culture, and history to ensure passengers a safe journey to — and through — New York.

That extra effort paid off for passengers who sailed to America on the line; 99 percent of the immigrants carried on the fleet were cleared for entry and passed through Ellis Island.

Heritage Cruises Through 2023

The 150th celebrations don’t stop after April’s voyage to Rotterdam. Through this year, Holland America is offering what it’s calling “Heritage Cruises.” These special sailings — ranging in length from 5 to 18 days — will include itineraries with deep links to the brand’s history, including those in Alaska (Holland America was the first cruise line to explore the 49th state), the Caribbean, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Australia and New Zealand, Hawaii, South America, and Mexico.

The Heritage sailings will feature onboard and shoreside experiences that harken back to the past. Think throwback dinner menus in the main dining room, retro happy hours with lower pricing to match, special Dutch high tea services, classic cruise activities, and Dutch games, including a traditional egg walk. Get ready to work on your onboard sense of balance!

Culture vultures will love detailed daily “This Day In History” announcements about each port, plus enhanced ship-board display screens showcasing the ports’ significant moments, vintage photos, and fun facts. Shore excursions will also focus on the cultural importance of each stop.

“These special Heritage Cruises allow us to continue celebrating Holland America Line with our guests in a meaningful way,” said Antorcha. “We have a deep connection to ports around the world, and we’re excited to show how each highlighted destination has shaped our brand.”

Tips For Booking/Sailing

From a tropical, beachy getaway to grand tours of Europe and once-in-a-lifetime sailings to Australia and New Zealand, Holland America’s Heritage Cruises are a special way to celebrate the line’s grand anniversary. Guests who want to learn more about the itineraries still available should visit Holland America’s dedicated homepage listing the offerings.

Holland America prides itself on superior dining options across its fleet, employing a culinary council of chefs to design menus and signature dishes. Word to the wise: Try to reserve your specialty restaurant seatings, as well as your excursions and spa treatments well in advance. You don’t want to miss out on those onboard experiences because they are all booked up!

Free activities also take place on board each day, including live cooking demonstrations, and even pickleball lessons and tournaments. Be sure to check them out during your at-sea days.

Last but not least: Do your homework before packing those bags. Certainly, you want to plan for your destination’s weather and your activities, however, you’ll want to keep in mind Holland America still has formal nights and that means a dress code to also take into account. Check ahead of time to see how many there are on your sailing, so you’ll have the fancy clothes covered as well as your daytime resort wear.

Related Reading:

• 6 Cruise Splurges Our Experts Say Are Worth Every Penny
• I Retired On A Cruise Ship — Here’s How Much It Costs
• 8 Reasons You Should Consider Taking Back-To-Back Cruises

Called “The World’s Aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau, the Sea of Cortes is the location to experience the incredible diversity of marine life. With 900 species of fish, 170 species of seabirds, a third of the world’s whales, dolphins, and porpoises, and five species of sea turtles, the Sea of Cortes is nature at its finest, and many of the best destinations along the Sea of Cortes are accessible only by small ship.

I had the pleasure of cruising the Sea of Cortes with my niece, Cheryl, and recommend these fantastic ports along Mexico’s Baha California Sur, plus the best activities in each.

UnCruise Adventures sponsored our voyage. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Pro Tip: Is It the Sea of Cortez or the Sea of Cortes? Both spellings are correct. Cortez is the Spanish spelling, and Cortes is the English spelling.

1. Baja Agua Verde

The gentle sway of the sea at Baja Agua Verde is a welcome relief to the strong El Norte winds we encountered upon leaving La Paz. 

Located on the peninsula just south of Loreto, the waters of secluded Agua Verde Bay are a beautiful green and amazingly clear and clean. There are few tourists here as the 40-mile drive is rough and unsuitable for cars and the area is best visited by small ship. We anchored just offshore and enjoyed the following activities:

Skiff Tour Of Baja Agua Verde

A skiff took us to explore the rugged shore of the peninsula and is a  great way to see the best of this area. Thanks to the calm waters, we could get close to and sight the many marine birds perched on the rocks.

Wildlife Sighting: Blue-Footed Boobies

The most unusual birds we saw were the blue-footed boobies. These are aquatic birds native to the tropical and subtropical areas of the Pacific. Do you know why their feet are blue? Scientists believe the blue color results from the carotenoid pigments in their diet. During mating season, the males entice females with fancy footwork during a dance ritual.

Burro Ride

Have you ever enjoyed a burro ride along high cliffs overlooking the beautiful waters of the Sea of Cortes? Fellow cruisers, including my niece, raved about this experience with the Romero Family, who brought their burros over an 8-mile trek to provide this unique excursion. The Romeros are an authentic Mexican Ranchero Clan, rapidly disappearing as the younger generation moves away to seek educational and employment opportunities. The burro rides are an essential source of revenue for the clan and an activity unique to the area.

“Goat Walk”

The so-called goat walk up the cliff was the most strenuous of the activities at Baja Agua Verde, and it was perfect for folks like my niece. I asked her if there was a special meaning to the term “Goat Walk.” “No, I don’t think so,” she replied. “It was just a scramble up some rocks like a mountain goat would.” She loved it! The path they took meandered along some relatively narrow pathways along the mountain cliff.

Beach Walk

A beach walk and tasty refreshments at UnCruise Beach Stations topped off our afternoon at Baja Agua Verde before we reboarded the ship.

Pro Tip: Reminder that whenever and wherever you visit a beach, you should take nothing and leave nothing behind. 

2. Puerto Lopez Mateos, Magdalena Bay

We docked off Isla Carmen and traveled overland on Highway #1 across the peninsula to Puerto Lopez Mateos on the Pacific Side of Baja California Sur. The terrain is amazing: desolate with miles and miles of cacti. One friend observed, “This is just like the old Western movies!”

Wildlife Sighting: Gray Whales

After boarding a small boat, we set out to observe the gray whales in the lagoon of Magdalena Bay. This area is one of the three major Baja breeding and calving lagoons for gray whales and is recognized as one of the world’s best places to view them. The lagoon is ideal because of its warm, calm, nutrient-rich waters.

Excitement sparks in the air as we all watch for the first blowholes. Soon, a sighting — and close to our boats. 

What an absolute delight! Several mothers and calves were enjoying the warm waters of the bay. This is the closest I have ever been to gray whales and the first time I observed mothers and calves. We stayed for a good 45 minutes and witnessed these magnificent creatures throughout our time.

Pro Tip: The best time to view gray whales and calves here is mid-January to early March, when they begin their migration back to Alaska. Plan your trip accordingly.

3. Isla Carmen (Del Carmen Island)

Isla Carmen is the largest island in the Loreto National Marine Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We anchored just off the island and enjoyed these activities:

Snorkeling

Prepare to be greeted by colorful fish! The waters are cold here — it’s not like snorkeling in Hawaii or the Caribbean. The good news is that hot chocolate was waiting for us on our return!

Note that UnCruise requires folks to be good swimmers and able to get back on the boat using a ladder to participate in snorkeling. There is always the option to enjoy the views from the lounge on the ship, too.

Pro Tip: Uncruise offered Snorkel 101 for folks new to snorkeling, those who had not snorkeled for several years, and those who needed more confidence in snorkeling. This is a great option to help you get comfortable with snorkeling.

Wildlife Sighting: Dolphins And Blue Whales

Later in the afternoon, we heard the announcement: “Dolphins spotted off the bow!”

We rushed from the lounge to the bow of the ship to see the dolphins. In the distance, we also saw the spouts of blue whales. One of the crew identified them. I asked how she knew they were blue whales and not gray whales. Her response: “Gray whales don’t come up here.”

Fun Facts: Blue whales are the largest mammals on earth — they can reach up to 100 feet in length and can weigh up to 180 tonnes. Blue whales are found regularly in the “Blue Triangle” off Del Carmen Island. They are found greater distances from shore than the gray whales.

4. Isla Coronado

We anchored in a remote cove off Isla Coronado, another one of the five islands in UNESCO World Heritage Site Loreto Bay Marine Park. Isla Coronado is inhabited by 16 species of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and geckos, and is also known for its jackrabbits and mice.

Skiff Tour Of Isla Coronado

A skiff tour lets you get closer to Isla Coronado’s unique volcanic rock and shore formations, which are intricate and spell-binding.

Wildlife Sighting: Marine Birds And Nests

In addition to the impressive shoreline, during our skiff tour, we observed more blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans, and cormorants. We marveled at two huge cormorant nests along the rocks — one with a cormorant guarding it.

Native Vegetation, Fishermen’s Shrine, And Pearl Farm

Amazing also was the lone cacti trying to survive in the rocks. With less than one inch of rain annually, plants here have adapted to the harsh conditions to eke out a sustainable life.

As we rounded a bend, we came across a cross and shrine dedicated to the safety of the fishermen in the area. In another area, we got to see an abandoned pearl farm. 

Swim With Sea Lions

These clear turquoise waters are rich with life. One of the main attractions at Isla Coronado is the sea lions, frolicking in the waters and sunning on the rocks. If conditions are calm, folks can swim with the sea lions in one area.

Unfortunately, the winds had picked up, so we could not do this on our trip. (I always tell myself that I need to save some experiences for next time!) Flexibility is needed when small-boat cruising on the Sea of Cortes. Some experiences require good weather, and the captain always places safety first. So do be prepared for a change of plans.

Fun Fact: Loreto Bay Marine Park is also a Ramsar Site, meaning it’s internationally recognized for its wise use of waters and wetlands.

How To Get There

The Sea of Cortes lies between the Baja California Peninsula and the western coastline of Northern Mexico. Baja California Sur is the southern tip of the peninsula. We flew into San Jose del Cabo and met our UnCruise Expedition there.

Packing List

• Bring some flip-flops or water shoes for wet landings.
• I also recommend you bring a backpack to have your hands free when stepping into and out of the skiffs.
• To help preserve the delicate marine environment, I recommend reef-safe sunscreen.

More On Our Small Ship: The Safari Voyager

Our cruise was the Baja’s Bounty: Baja California’s Whales & Sealife Adventure. The Safari Voyager is a 66-passenger, 33-cabin small ship operated by UnCruise Adventures. Guest to crew ratio is 2:2.1. 

The ship has three decks. Deck 3 is the spacious lounge with 270-degree windows. The majority of the cabins are located on the second deck. All the cabins are outside, above the deck, and have lovely picture windows. The dining room is situated on the first deck. The vessel is decorated with beautiful handcrafted artwork in public areas and cabins.

Safari Voyager has an underwater camera and posts on Channel 2 in your cabin.

Three levels of activities are offered morning and afternoon: very active, active, and laid back. Between the two of us, my niece and I participated in all the activities.

Note that on this cruise, most landings are “wet landings,” meaning that you will step into shallow water to reach the beach. Additionally, there are no elevators on the ship.

Do plan a visit to Baja California Sur and the Sea of Cortes. Whether you enjoy sealife, birding, geography, or cruising, this is nature at its finest.

Everyone wants to save money when they travel. We look for the best deals, times of year to travel, and low-cost experiences. But then there are times when we don’t mind spending a little extra to have a one-of-a-kind experience or make our trip extra special. 

1. MSC Yacht Club

Roberts’s first pick is the MSC Yacht Club. It comes with a host of amenities and perks that take your vacation to the next level. 

This ship-within-a-ship concept is available on many MSC Cruise ships. The Yacht Club is an exclusive area of the ship that has a large lounge, specialty restaurant, private pool deck with an alfresco restaurant, concierge service, and included drinks and WiFfi. You also get 24-hour butler and room service, as well as access to the thermal suite at the ship’s MSC Aurea Spa.

 “I have stayed in the MSC Yacht Club a couple of times, and this experience changes the game for cruisers. You might even be tempted to spend your whole cruise in the pampered embrace of the Yacht Club area of the ship. Of course, there is always some great entertainment and activities going on elsewhere on the ships, too! 

“Your butler greets you at the cruise terminal and escorts you to your cabin. Butlers also make specialty dining reservations and escort you to the restaurants and to your seat in the theater for shows. You also have access to Ocean House Beach (with a bar, restaurant, and cabanas) at the line’s private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve,” Roberts remarks.

Roberts says it’s a splurge, for sure. For example, a 3-night cruise on MSC Divina from Miami starts at $239 per person for an inside cabin with drinks and WiFi included. MSC Yacht Club for the same cruise starts at $999 per person. 

2. A More Spacious Cabin 

Schretter says you may consider splurging for additional space on your cruise, particularly when traveling with kids. Cruise ships offer a wide variety of staterooms that will accommodate families, but Schretter suggests choosing your vacation home-away-from-home wisely. 

“Packing everyone into one of the smallest cabins with bunks and a single bathroom may not be the best vacation experience for families. Opting for more spacious family cabins, family suites, or connecting staterooms is a better bet. The additional space and privacy are worth the splurge,” Schretter says.

For a special treat, Schretter says to consider splurging for a suite if your budget allows. Cruise ship suites offer the luxury of space and come in all shapes and sizes. Upgrading to suites can also have additional perks, like exclusive access to certain specialty restaurants, lounges, private pools, and sun deck areas on some ships. Other extras, such as complimentary Wi-Fi, concierge services, upgraded amenities, complimentary drinks and snacks during special lounge happy hours, and priority embarkation and disembarkation may also be included.

3. Thermal Suite Access

The newer cruise ships feature increasingly elaborate and luxurious spas that offer a range of treatments. Roberts says the best part of these facilities are the spectacular thermal suites. These large spaces offer a range of amenities to enjoy, including

• thalassotherapy pools
• hot tubs
• cold plunge tubs
• steam rooms

and other tantalizing experiences like salt rooms, salt pools, charcoal saunas, infrared saunas, and even snow grottoes on some ships. 

“Cruisers can purchase day passes or pay for access to the thermal suite for the length of the voyage. I love to slip on my robe and slippers and spend a couple hours trying the treatments and settling into a comfy lounger while sipping an herbal tea and basking in the vistas of the ocean as the ship sails. Most feature large floor-to-ceiling windows and exclusive outer deck areas.” 

Thermal suite passes can range from around $50 to $70 a day to about $200 for an entire 7-day cruise, depending on the cruise line.

4. Your Ideal Stateroom Location

Schretter says another thing to consider is choosing your own cabin instead of opting for the cruise line’s less expensive “guarantee” stateroom. 

“This splurge is worth it if you care about controlling your room type and location. Staterooms with unobstructed balconies provide beautiful views and a more private place to relax. That’s important to me, but others might not care as much. It’s particularly worthwhile to splurge for a great balcony stateroom when sailing in places like Alaska or Norway, where the views are spectacular,” Schretter explains. 

Choosing your own cruise cabin can also allow you to avoid certain locations that can be less desirable, such as staterooms above or below nightclubs and theaters or close to elevators. Study your ship’s deck plans in detail before you book.

Pro Tip: A good cruise travel agent can also provide valuable assistance. 

5. Specialty Dining 

If you’ve ever wondered whether the specialty dining is worth the extra cost, Schretter says do it! 

“Today’s finest shipboard specialty restaurants can match those on land, and I’ve had a few of the best meals of my life on cruise ships. Guests can choose from a diverse array of eateries, including award-winning steakhouses, superb seafood restaurants, and top-notch dining venues featuring Italian, Asian, and French cuisines. Some cruise lines have partnered with renowned chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrity culinary geniuses to create world-class restaurants at sea. A number of ships offer intimate multi-course Chef’s Table dining experiences as well,” Schretter says.

Pro Tip: Schretter recommends making specialty dining reservations as far in advance as possible for the best restaurant availability and reservation times, as the most sought-after venues and dining times can fill up quickly. In addition, notify your cruise line in advance if you have food allergies or special dietary restrictions. 

6. Shore Excursions

Shore excursions offer cruisers once-in-a-lifetime moments. Schretter says these experiences have been some of the best parts of her cruises.

“They’ve given me unforgettable memories that I’ll treasure forever. Some of these include dogsledding on a glacier and watching bears catching salmon in Alaska, mind-blowingly scenic helicopter flights in Hawaii, customized private tours in Rome and along Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and an exceptional post-cruise tour of Angkor Wat in Cambodia,“ Schretter shares. 

Consider what’s important to you and research the full range of options available. Extraordinary experiences like these are well worth the splurge, and they can easily be the highlight of your vacation. Book your shore excursions as early as possible, as popular options can sell out rapidly.

While getting sick or injured is not on your cruise itinerary, it does happen. But you might not know what the cruise medical clinic is capable of handling. It’s important to be prepared and be aware. The medical staff on board is trained to handle non-emergency and emergency care. Our veteran cruise expert, Buck Banks, breaks down what you should know if you do get sick or injured during your cruise.

1. Emergency Care

Commonly treated emergency injuries or conditions include cardiac arrest, broken bones, sprains, head injuries, and dehydration.

Medical Equipment

In general, most cruise ships have a healthcare facility with several beds to treat emergency cases. They are equipped, like most emergency rooms, with X-ray machines, defibrillators, and ultrasound machines.

Most cruise ships are equipped with telemedicine facilities that allow the shipboard medical staff to consult with shoreside doctors on appropriate treatments.

Medevac

In emergencies, the staff’s goal is to provide initial care and stabilize the patient in order to facilitate moving them. Typically, if possible, it is preferred to transfer an ill or injured guest off the ship at a port of call with appropriate medical facilities.

Banks indicates that in some cases that is not possible and guests are medevaced via water ambulance or helicopter. Generally, if you are sick or injured enough to be evacuated from the ship, it is unlikely that you will rejoin it. In terms of returning home, that is usually accomplished with an air ambulance.

2. Non-Emergency Care

Banks says they can also treat a variety of non-emergency conditions. He received treatment for a sinus infection on a Princess ship once and was given antibiotics and some interesting nasal treatments that were common in the UK, but he had never seen them before.

On another occasion, he was accompanying a media group when a journalist who was allergic to shellfish was accidentally exposed during a meal at the buffet. He accompanied her to the infirmary where they administered medications specific to her condition and she was able to avoid serious symptoms.

3. Prescription Medications

It can happen to any of us: We forget our medications at home. Thankfully, the doctors on board can help.

Pharmacy On Board 

The ship’s medical staff can prescribe medicine. There is a pharmacy that can fill prescription orders as well as offer common over-the-counter cold and flu meds. They have common generic prescription medications for short-term use.

Pharmacies On Shore

Guest services and the medical staff can help facilitate filling your full prescription at a port of call. If you have a chronic illness like diabetes and use insulin, ask your doctor to write you a prescription before your cruise in case you forget your insulin at home.

Pro Tip: Keep a list of medications, supplements, your medical insurance, and travelers’ insurance with you. You can also take pictures of the items and keep them on your phone to show the medical staff.

4. What Can’t Be Treated On Board

Most ship infirmaries are not set up to treat chronic illnesses such as kidney disease. However, there are special cruises designed for people with chronic kidney conditions where dialysis machines are brought on board to accommodate regular treatments.

Pro Tip: Dialysis at Sea is a service that works with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise lines to offer dialysis during your cruise.

5. Most Common Onboard Injury

The most common type of injury on a cruise ship is a slip and fall due to the wet decks and stairs. Banks suggests always using handrails on stairs and watching for signs indicating steps, uneven decks, or a spill indoors or a wet deck outdoors. Always be aware that you’re on a moving vehicle at sea. Although you’re on vacation, pay attention and take it easy.

6. Medical Staff Qualifications

Medical staff, both doctors and nurses, are usually trained, accredited, and licensed in emergency care. Banks says the licenses will vary, according to where the staff hails from, but on most ships operating out of U.S. ports, it’s a U.S. accreditation. According to Carnival Cruise Lines, a typical medical team consists of two doctors and two to four nurses.

7. Cost

Typically, you will be charged to be seen by the cruise medical staff. The cost is typically billed to your room and varies depending on if you go to the clinic during regular hours, after hours, or if the doctor visits your room. Check your health insurance before your trip to see what is covered and what is not.

8. Travel Insurance

Banks always recommends picking up travel insurance, especially if you will be cruising abroad. He suggests checking to make sure it covers transportation (both on land and by air), emergency room and hospitalization, as well as medications and accommodations for those traveling with you.

For more cruise information, check out these articles:

• 5 Reasons I Loved This Small Ship Cruise Along Ecuador’s Coastline
• 8 Reasons You Should Consider Taking Back-To-Back Cruises
• 7 Things I Learned On My First Caribbean Cruise, And Still Follow Almost 30 Years Later

Cruising is a great way to see several countries in one trip without moving hotel rooms. You unpack once and you’re ready to enjoy. However, seasoned cruisers always know a few tips and tricks to make their vacation go from good to great. We asked our experts to share things they do for every cruise.

1. The First Hours Onboard Are Key 

As soon as you unpack, take time to get to know the ship. You will definitely rack up steps for the day. However, it’s important to locate the attractions, activities, lounges, and restaurants that your ship offers. 

“I can’t count how many times I’ve seen cruisers dead-ended in a corridor, heads swiveling around looking for their venue and throwing up their arms with a conversation that goes something like this: ‘I told you we were on the wrong end of the ship!’” Roberts explains.

Deck Walk Through

You can avoid this scenario by spending some time taking a good look at the deck plan, orienting yourself to starboard and portside, and on which side your cabin is located. Roberts also suggests enjoying a nice deck-by-deck walkthrough of the ship to become familiar with the public spaces. 

Join Facebook Group And Download Cruise Line App

Schretter suggests joining private Facebook groups for the cruise line to see what other travelers have experienced, recommended, and even things to avoid. She also recommends downloading the cruise line app before your trip to become familiar with it. The apps can be your lifeline once onboard and you don’t want to spend half your cruise trying to figure out how it works.

Pro Tip: Schretter also recommends making restaurant reservations, and in some cases, show reservations as early as possible to avoid missing a sought-after experience. 

2. Research Ports Of Call 

A cruise is usually chosen by your interest in the ports. Schretter often researches the port cities to see what interests her before she sets sail. This helps her decide what she wants to do at each port if she wants to pay for an excursion or explore on her own. 

3. Book Spa Treatments Early

If you like that extra touch of relaxation, make sure to book your spa treatments early. Whelan says to make your appointments on embarkation day. This will allow you the first choice of your favorite experiences.

Pro Tip: Princess Cruise’s Lotus spas recommend booking on embarkation day for specials as well as twilight deals.

4. Book Excursions Online ASAP 

Ship excursions are an excellent way to explore each port, but like with other popular things on the ship, they will book up fast. You don’t want to miss the best stops because you waited too long.

Roberts says, if you also book activities through the cruise line’s shore excursion program, make sure to go online to reserve your spot as soon as you have your cruise booking and the excursions are open for sale. 

Roberts says to research and check reviews if you plan to do excursions independently with companies not associated with your cruise line. Then, book your activities, keep them handy, and bring along all the emails and other documentation of your payment and reservation.

Pro Tip: Cruise lines do not have to wait for you if you are late from a non-ship excursion. Make sure your watch is set to the time on the ship and give yourself plenty of time to get back to the ship. Also, some of the most popular activities — like visiting the baths at Virgin Gorda when you cruise to Tortola — can sell out quickly. 

5. Arrive At Least A Day In Advance

With all of the issues with airlines lately, this probably seems like a no-brainer, but it’s important to note. All three of these TravelAwaits experts agree it’s always a best practice to get to your cruise port city at least a day ahead of your cruise departure date. 

Roberts says you can use the extra day in Miami, for example, and explore the city, relax in a comfy hotel for the night, and wake up knowing you’re going to make it to your ship. He says if you make this your standard game plan, then you still have the cushion of a full extra day to get onto another flight if your original one is canceled or significantly delayed. 

Schretter says it’s not just the airlines, but road constructions, traffic, accidents, and severe weather that can cause delays in getting to the ship. The ship will not wait for you if you don’t arrive at your embarkation port on time due to heavy traffic or flight delays.

Pro Tip: Schretter typically arrives two to three days in advance at international ports. She uses this time to adjust to the new time zone and recover from jet lag. International cruise itineraries often involve lots of port calls and lengthy tours. 

6. Travel With Carry-On Luggage Only

While this might sound daunting, Schretter has flown without checked bags for cruises in Alaska, Antarctica, and the Galapagos Islands. Again, she researches her ports and makes a list of what to pack, coordinating outfit colors and limiting the number of shoes. She also suggests wearing bulky items on the plane and using packing cubes. 

Pro Tip: Most ships have laundry options. Schretter adds that the flexibility of traveling with just carry-on luggage is worth the added cost.

7. Bring A Fanny Pack

Yes, the fanny pack is back! Of course, some now call it a belt bag and wear it more like a crossbody bag, but it still serves the same purpose — a hands-free, safe purse option. This is one of Whelans’ favorite travel items. She likes it because it’s much easier to sightsee while having two hands free and without the bother of hanging onto a purse. Plus, if it’s strapped on, you won’t leave it somewhere either.

8. Use A GPS Tracking Device

These tags have increased in popularity due to airline lost baggage issues. Whelan invested in portable GPS tracking devices that she can slip into her luggage and her purse or fanny pack. She loves the fact she knows exactly where her luggage is (or isn’t!) if she is flying to meet a ship. 

Pro Tip: Whelan always carries a fresh change of clothes in her carry-on bag in case her luggage gets lost.

Launched in 2022, Kontiki Expeditions has created a “neo-luxury” yacht cruise experience that combines cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, exclusive excursions, and the kind of luxury one expects when sailing on an indulgent yacht.

Sailing from Manta, Ecuador, Kontiki (which takes its name from the Incan god of creation Kon-Tiki Viracocha) sails along the Pacific coast of Ecuador along the Manabi Province on 5- to 8-day luxury sea expeditions to locations that most tourists never see or even bother to consider.

That’s a mistake. While Ecuador’s Andes Mountains, cloud forests, and sections of the Amazon attract those visitors who aren’t going to The Galapagos Islands, the coastal area of Ecuador is rich in ancient culture, pristine marine reserves, protected forests, thriving indigenous communities, and beaches uncrowded by party-goers or screaming kids.

Combine those experiences with luxurious touches, culinary excellence, and an indulgent onboard stay, and Kontiki Expeditions may have the perfect trip for travelers who want the comfort and amenities of a high-end cruise with the authenticity and exclusive experiences of small-ship, expedition-style action.

Here are the five reasons I loved this small ship cruise of Ecuador’s rarely-explored coastline.

I was a hosted guest of Kontiki Expeditions, but all opinions are my own.

1. Small Ship, Big Luxury

Kontiki Expeditions’ MS Wayra is a 128-foot luxury yacht with nine staterooms for just 18 guests. And with a full staff of absolute professionals, you’ll feel like you’ve got the ship to yourself — even in the common areas where other guests congregate.

The rooms and bathrooms are roomy and comfortable, and the topside bar, hot tub, and sundeck are always fun places to sip on cocktails and chat with friends. A wine cellar, fitness room, massage area, and plenty of deck seating round out the beauty of the MS Wayra, but it’s the staff that makes this ship truly a luxury experience.

The staff of roughly 10 — plus an onboard naturalist and guide — are trained in safety and service, ensuring that you will be catered to and looked after. The rooms are spotlessly cleaned three times a day like magic. I say “magic” because the little fellow in charge of the rooms slips in and out without ever being seen, leaving only little treats and a freshly-made bed as proof he was actually there.

After shore excursions or snorkeling adventures, the staff is always waiting with cool damp hand towels, hot chocolate, herbal tea, and coffee, and the barista/bartender is a pro at making your favorite cappuccino and latte or pouring a glass of that malbec you just fell in love with.

The ship isn’t just luxurious amenities though; it’s full of fun as well. The water club includes ocean kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and “SeaBobs” to play with as well as a three-story inflatable slide from the top deck to the ocean that’ll make you feel like a kid again.

The ocean swimming pool is ocean-net enclosed so you don’t have to worry about jellyfish or other sneaky critters brushing up against you, and the ship has all the snorkeling gear you’ll need to gaze around the pristine ocean off the coast of Ecuador.

Oh, and if you are prone to seasickness, the staff is ready with motion sickness tablets if you need them.

Pro Tip: While the ship etiquette onboard is barefoot, you must bring good walking shoes for land expeditions, beach sandals, and water shoes (optional). You’ll definitely need your bathing suit, comfortable walking clothes, and a hat. Sunscreen is an absolute must because you are basking at the equator. A light jacket is recommended for those cooler, windier nights on the ship. Also, an end-trip gratuity of $300 to $350 is a typical amount to set aside if you are happy with the service.

2. One-Of-A-Kind Adventures 

On Isla de la Plata, blue-footed boobies waddled everywhere, their turquoise feet slapping at the dry, hard ground. Male boobies sat protectively on their chicks — cotton ball fluffs with curious black faces — while the females were out searching for food on the ocean. A little farther down the path, along the steep cliffs overlooking the wild Pacific, Nasca boobies were in the middle of their own mating and breeding season.

While 10 local tour organizers visit Isla La Plata, we had the island to ourselves for the morning. Part of Machalilla National Park, this protected uninhabited island is known as a “mini-Galapagos” because of the blue-footed, Nasca, and red-footed boobies that nest here, as well as the Galapagos albatrosses.

As part of Kontiki’s exclusive experiences, we had private guides to lead us up the trails that run to the sheer cliff tops that sometimes overlook migratory humpback whales. Our on-board naturalist and expedition guide Raul (Ruly) Menoscal shared facts about the ecosystem, but hiking and bird watching weren’t the only Kontiki Expeditions exclusive adventures we enjoyed during the 5-day cruise.

From snorkeling the marine reserves to hiking through small national parks and rainforests and getting our hands dirty learning the ancient pottery techniques of the pre-historic Valdivian civilization with the Orrolo family in Puerto Lopez, the wet and dry landing excursions through Kontiki are one of a kind.

The Pacoche Marine Wildlife Refuge near Manta brought us on a hike (easy, but rocky in places) through a rainforest to spot howler monkeys, spot tiny fingernail-sized frogs, say hello to a calm and quiet tarantula, and learn about the ecosystem in this marine cloud forest.

You also have a chance to interact with local communities, learn about indigenous culture and history and take part in hands-on activities with local artisans.

3. Interacting With Small Communities

From Shamans To Chocolatiers

Inside the circle made from ashes, a shaman and two assistants from the indigenous Agua Blanca community in the Machalilla National Park waited with traditional grass skirts and headdresses to lead our small group in a Seven Winds blessing ceremony led by Shaman Plinio Merchán.

With palo santo smoke and oil, we were cleansed of our negative energies and told to make a wish before giving thanks and blessings to the directions, the sky, the earth, and all the communities and peoples in every direction. With bare chests, a crown of feathers, and jangly seed anklets, the shamans welcomed each of us with open hearts, and we felt comforted and light after the ceremony was over.

Descendants of the Manteño-Huancavilca civilization — one of the last pre-Columbian civilizations in modern-day Ecuador that existed from 850 to 1600 A.D. — the Agua Blanca community visit was only one of the deep interactions we had along the Ecuadorian Coast.

We learned about the world’s rarest chocolate from Servio Pachard, one of the main cacao growers for To’Ak Chocolates, who grows heritage cacao trees thought to be extinct or near extinct. In fact, Pachard had to use DNA testing to prove the ultra-rare (and ultra-expensive) Arriba Nacional cacao bean still existed. He led us through the process of sampling various rare cacao pods, roasting the beans, and peeling and grinding the beans to create a shot of pure, heavenly chocolate rich enough to make you light-headed.

We learned about the Manabita ovens used in the Manabi area — an all-in-one oven/grill/smoker — at LaSecreta’s cooking school/restaurant/food lab in the rural area of Manabi. Created to give opportunities to those affected by an earthquake and the pandemic, this school includes a cooking lab, classrooms, an outdoor kitchen, herb and vegetable gardens, and even a distillery, giving the adult students a thorough education in hospitality and culinary arts.

We watched master hatmaker Domingo Carranza use his sharpened fingernails to separate palm fronds into the perfect straw to weave into toquilla straw hats (unfairly called Panama Hats), a by-hand process that can take months.

We kneaded clay with the Orrolo family at Puerto Lopez to make our own clay pots in the same way the ancient Valdivian peoples created pottery, and we dined on cuisine harvested locally from farms, rainforests, and oceans.

Interacting with the communities and history in this area through exclusive experiences offered only by Kontiki Expeditions was my favorite part of this entire trip.

4. Culinary Delights

Trust me: You won’t go hungry or unsatisfied on the Kontiki MS Wayra. The two on-board chefs are masters of creating dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that highlight the local seafood and produce of the Manabi region and are able to tweak dishes to accommodate dining preferences or allergies.

The breakfast buffet always had a selection of fresh fruits like dragon fruit, papaya, mango, and berries as well as fluffy pastries, freshly-squeezed juices, and sliced smoked salmon. The hot dishes included eggs and bacon, but also regional dishes rich with plantains.

Lunch and dinner always included a seafood option, which I loved. From prawns swimming in spicy sauce to perfectly prepared fish filets, the dinners also included other meats for the non-seafood fans and rich, decadent desserts paired with wine or drinks of your choice.

All meals were served in a communal dining room which rang with the laughter and jokes of the passengers, and tasty little snacks like empanadas were served at the topside bar and jacuzzi during free time.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on having the bartender cut open a fresh coconut for you to sip on. Whether or not you add rum is your choice, but it’s an amazingly refreshing treat after a long day of snorkeling or hiking.

5. Naturalist Knowledge And Passion 

Carlos Nuñez started Kontiki Expeditions to bring tourism and sustainable income to the coast of Ecuador, where he grew up. His family was among the tuna fishing moguls, so sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint of expedition touring were important to him.

Beyond that, Carlos wants the rich and diverse culture and ecosystem of coastal Ecuador to be enjoyed.

“We are pioneers on this. We kind of invented the wheel on this,” he said. “Not even locals come to the coast because people are focused 100 percent on Galapagos. Now, I think we will definitely get more attention for the destination because of Kontiki. Now people are thinking, ‘Why not? Why not go off the beaten track?’”

In addition to creating jobs and supporting local communities, Nuñez wants the world to experience neo-luxury yacht cruising in a way that matters. Every tour includes an onboard naturalist guide, and Ruly Menoscal was among the best. A former naturalist and researcher (he spent 8 months alone on one of the Galapagos islands), Ruly was our translator for language and the experiences we were on. He had a wealth of knowledge and was patient, funny, enthusiastic, and passionate about the region and conservation.

Each day ended with a slideshow presentation of all we experienced that day and a run-down of the next day’s activities. Having a trained guide/naturalist on board and on all the excursions gave us a depth of knowledge and understanding that we never would have experienced otherwise.

For travelers looking for authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and exclusive experiences and adventures combined with the expected luxury of a super-yacht, Kontiki Expeditions offers both. Although the days are packed full of fun and excursions, you’ll feel more relaxed on this expedition cruise than most.

And because you’re among the few that can explore the Ecuadorian coast in neo-luxury, you’ll have stories to share that few people have experienced themselves.

A back-to-back cruise is when you take consecutive cruises, and the opportunity, While it might sound odd initially, has a lot going for it, especially when you opt for back-to-back cruises on the same ship. 

I recently did back-to-back cruises from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas on Royal Caribbean. I was hosted by Royal Caribbean for a total of 4 nights to explore their new ship, the Wonder of the Seas. My takeaway: Whether you’re an experienced cruiser or will be cruising for the first time, the back-to-back cruise experience deserves your consideration.

Here are seven reasons you should consider booking a back-to-back cruise, plus some helpful tips if you decide to go this route. 

1. Extend Your Vacation And Enjoy Your Ideal Itinerary

If you want to take a longer vacation but see a great cruise deal (or a route that appeals to you) on a shorter cruise, book two 3-night cruises. You can also look at adding a 3-night cruise to a 7-night cruise — your options just depend on what routes your cruise line has set, what interests you, and what you have time and money for. 

Taking two back-to-back cruises that followed the same route doubled my time on the ship. This might sound obvious, but the additional time allowed me to experience more of the ship’s amenities and take part in more activities on board, such as getting to see all the shows and experience the different pools and sunbathing areas. 

When you take a shorter cruise, you often have to choose between spending more time exploring the ship or focusing on exploring the ports of call. Cruising on the same ship twice allows you to do both. 

2. Earn Cruise Loyalty Status

Each cruise line manages loyalty points differently. Some reward you for nights sailed, and others reward you per cruise. Disney Cruise Line gives you loyalty points for each cruise, so three 3-night cruises will give you more points than one 10-night cruise.

Royal Caribbean gives points for each night cruised and doubles the points if you book a suite. Princess Cruise Line does a hybrid model of nights and points: Their Ruby loyalty tier level can be attained by three cruises or 30 nights sailed. 

Whether it’s a cruise line, airline, or hotel chain, you’re going to get max benefits if you work their loyalty programs. 

If you’re doing back-to-back cruises on a cruise line that rewards you for the number of cruises versus nights cruised, taking two consecutive cruises is a way to double dip.

3. You Can Book The Same Stateroom

Back-to-back cruises are infinitely easier and more enjoyable when you book both cruises in the same cabin. Most cruises will allow you to leave your belongings in your stateroom if you’re not changing rooms. If you are switching rooms (or are on the rare cruise that doesn’t allow stateroom storage in the interim), you’ll need to get your luggage off the ship the same as if you were disembarking. You can either carry your luggage back on and keep it with you until your stateroom is ready or re-check it with the porters to have it delivered to you.

If you’re booking back-to-back cruises and want to be in the same stateroom during both, I recommend using a travel agent that has enhanced access to cruise booking tools, especially if you’re booking high-demand cruises. Routes that have just been published or new cruise ships are always very popular. 

If you are going to attempt this on your own, know exactly what you want to book and be quick. Other travelers are likely looking at the same staterooms you want to book. 

Another option is to call and book with the cruise line over the phone. Explain to the representative what you want to do — they’ll be able to have a larger picture view of available staterooms on different cruises to assist you in making your choices. A travel agent will do the same thing, though, and they will be on hold to speak to the cruise line’s customer service, not you. 

Pro Tip: Having some flexibility on dates and taking cruises during periods less popular with cruise travelers may also make getting the same stateroom on back-to-back cruises a bit easier. 

Important: Even if you book the same stateroom on back-to-back cruises, you will still have to get off the ship after the first cruise and reboard. 

4. Have The Ship (Almost) To Yourself

When you reboard the ship for your second (or subsequent) cruise, you will be among the first to board the ship. Uncrowded pools where you have your pick of loungers, minimal lines at the buffets or water slides, and being able to take pictures without other people in the background are all perks of getting on board first. 

Boarding early also affords you the opportunity to get to know crew members and explore the ship while things are still quiet. Note that some facilities and services, such as casinos, shops, and spa/salons, may not be available during this time. 

5. Time To Explore The Port City

While your cruise line might not offer an excursion at the end of Cruise 1 and before Cruise 2, if you’re not worried about getting back on the ship as soon as possible, you may have time to explore your port of embarkation between cruises.

Wonder of the Seas stopped in Port Canaveral for the day. While I got back on the ship as soon as I was allowed to do so, there were a few things in the area that I considered checking out: Disney World, the Kennedy Space Center, and Merrit Island National Wildlife Refuge. I quickly ruled Disney World out as being not cost-effective — it was an hour’s drive each way, plus lines and security to get into the parks didn’t seem worth it. 

A single day, one park ticket runs over $100 a day per person, and the lines at Disney World are notoriously long. If you’re sailing out of Port Canaveral, I recommend doing Disney World before or after. 

If you choose to explore your port city, make sure the activity you’ve planned allows a cushion for travel time plus an extra hour or more for traffic and anything that might go wrong. Your best bet is an activity that’s close to the port. 

Pro Tip: If you’re not going to reboard as soon as you’re allowed to, make sure you’re clear on the all-aboard time and allow yourself plenty of cushion to avoid being late getting back. 

6. Experience More Of The Ship

I’ve been cruising for 15 years, and I know it’s impossible to see and do everything on a cruise ship, especially the larger ones like the Royal Caribbean Oasis Class or soon-to-come Icon Class ships, in 7 days or less. That said, sailing the same (or similar) route consecutively gives you more time and the option to select different restaurants and entertainment options the second time around. 

7. Do More Of Nothing

If you do back-to-back cruises, you can spend one action-packed cruise seeing all the shows, going to all the entertainment events, going on excursions, or whatever appeals to you. You can spend your subsequent cruise lounging by the pool or having a lazy morning with coffee on your stateroom balcony.

Or do two action-packed cruises or two chill cruises. All cruises allow you to make your vacation what you want it to be. Back-to-back cruises just let you do more of the same.

8. Optimize Family Or Friend-Group Travel

If you’re trying to travel with grandkids, friends, or extended family, getting everyone’s schedule to align on a single set of dates can be a challenge. Back-to-back cruises where you cruise with different family members or friends on each of your cruises might work, especially for grandparents seeking to spend time with busy adult children and their families. Book two short cruises and spend one with the kids in your life and another focusing on relaxation and the ship’s amenities.

Other Things To Consider When Taking Back-To-Back Cruises

Here are some things to consider when taking a back-to-back cruise. Every cruise, cruise line, and travel scenario is different, but these will give you some food for thought and alert you to potential pitfalls. 

• Be prepared for a bit of a wait to get back on the ship; take something to do or plan a DIY excursion as suggested above.
• Account for mobility issues: If you have any sort of mobility issues that result in you needing assistance to get on the ship, you’ll need to make sure you put those same systems in place for both cruises. 
• Know that you’ll have to settle your shipboard account and start anew with Cruise 2. If you purchased a drink package or internet access, you’d need to repurchase those if you want them on your second cruise.
• If you’re staying in the same stateroom and prepaid your gratuities, your stateroom host should probably get two sets of tips from you, or one larger tip at the end of Cruise 2.

Pro Tip: I made sure to verify that the same stateroom attendant would be taking care of my room during my second cruise. I ensured he knew I’d be giving one payment at the end of my second cruise and tipped him in cash.

• Your stateroom attendant will know you’re a returning cruiser and will provide instructions on the final night of your cruise. When I did my back-to-back cruises with Royal Caribbean on the Wonder of the Seas, I got a very detailed info sheet on the final afternoon of my cruise that answered every possible question I had about what I needed to do.
• The process for back-to-back cruises will vary by cruise line and location, so make sure you’re reading the fine print and checking with your travel agent to make sure you understand what’s going to be expected of you.
• Again, I strongly recommend working with a travel agent. Travel agents have resources at their disposal to see what staterooms are available on consecutive cruises, and that will be easier than scrambling to ensure you’re in the same stateroom on your consecutive cruises.
• Finally, even though your second cruise may feel like a continuation of your first cruise, it is not. Boarding passes, health questionnaires, and clearing customs all have to be accomplished again for the second cruise, and you’ll have to get off the ship and get back on again.

When filling out your cruise itinerary, excursions are an important consideration. Some excursions are leisurely, others are active. But all contribute to the depth of experience that you will have. For an Alaskan cruise, nature and culture predominate. From learning about First Nation totems to fishing or glacier and bear encounters, these side trips will create lasting memories and add a spark to your trip.

For my first cruise to Alaska, I chose Windstar’s Alaskan Splendors itinerary on their newly renovated, all-suite Star Breeze to have a mix of sailing and exploring. The small ship was able to negotiate narrow channels, affording fabulous up-close views of America’s “last frontier” even from onboard.

Pro Tip: Windstar offers excursions with varying degrees of exertion from easy to strenuous. Be sure to ask for guidance when selecting the ones that best suit you. In case you decide to forego leaving the ship to while away the time from the top deck, you’re still likely to see humpback whales and orcas breaching nearby.

Here are my five favorite excursions that brought me deep into the culture and wild beauty of Alaska.

Windstar hosted me on this cruise, but all opinions are my own.

1. Tracking Bears

Tongass National Forest

From the port of Wrangell, we set sail on a frisky speedboat which took us to the Anan Wildlife Observatory in Tongass National Forest, a guaranteed spot for bear and eagle sightings. As I seldom experience seasickness, I sat next to the captain up front — the bumpiest of seats — as we zipped and slammed across the water. The rewards were great. Not only did I have the first mate’s sightlines, but I enjoyed a personal dialogue with the captain about what to expect when we arrived at the landing.

Spotting bears and even being around bears requires concentration and caution. We were instructed to walk single file remaining close together in a silent procession with the rifle-toting ranger, our leader and protector. Bears are serious business, and we definitely didn’t want to become fodder for their lunch. After the half-mile hike, we arrived at the viewing deck where we enjoyed a prelude of bald eagle sightings. We learned to distinguish the juvenile birds with their dark heads and mottled wings from the adults who evinced a yellow beak and a white head and tail. They soared so close that we didn’t need binoculars to view them.

Our quest, however, was to see the bears, and we had multiple ways to do so. Sometimes the black and brown bears simply strolled near the platform, triggering a mad rush as we crowded to the side to catch a glimpse. Other times, we gathered along the rail over Anan Creek to watch the hungry guys catch runs of pink salmon.

The true gift of this excursion was the chance to shelter in the intimate photo blind at stream level with salmon and bears in full view. Watching the bears’ varying degrees of success diving for, catching, and devouring their prey provided endless entertainment and awe. It was the circle of life coming full circle.

Pro Tip: You should be physically fit for this excursion. The boat ride takes about an hour and can be uncomfortable for those prone to motion sickness. The trail to the observatory is gravel and dirt with some roots and is muddy and slippery in places. To reach the photo blind, you must descend a long stairway. Also note that this is a rainforest, so dress and pack your gear appropriately.

2. Kayaking To The Glaciers

Inside Passage

Windstar offers two ways to experience the mighty fjords and icefields of Alaska’s Inside Passage from the water. You can join a zodiac tour, where the leader takes care of paddling and steering, and all you do is sit back and take in the breathtaking scenery. Or, as I preferred, snuggle into a two-person kayak, relying on coordination with your fellow boater to navigate alongside blue-tinged drift ice. We watched lazing harbor seals and bobbing otters as we made our way toward the magnificence of the glaciers and waterfalls.

Kayaking with your spouse (or with any partner for that matter) can be a challenge, but done correctly, you move serenely yet swiftly toward your goal. In the kayak, you can position yourself horizontally under waterfalls and close to the glaciers to see not only the ice but also the mountain goats that impossibly make their home high on the cliffs.

Silence is occasionally broken by the sounds of water cascading down cliffs and the thunder of calving glaciers, dripping icebergs in their wake. I felt privileged to watch the unfolding renewal of the glaciers and caught my breath each time I heard a thud.

Windstar has several excursions by kayak — one by the high waterfalls of Misty Fjords, a second to Kenai Fjords’ Harding icefield, and another to Tracy Arm-Endicott Arm’s twin glaciers. Icy water conditions often determine the destination, and we were directed to Endicott Arm on my excursion. Bordered by steep rock walls and glacier-covered mountains, this teal-sapphire blue passage afforded a front-row seat to the impressive Dawes Glacier. I left feeling very small, smaller than usual in this amazing landscape.

Pro Tip: If the trip turns inclement, you always have a choice to return to the ship by zodiac. On the other hand, I completed a 2-hour kayak in a downpour, counting on the many rain-resistant layers I wore to protect me. It was an experience I’ll never forget.

3. Dogsledding On The Glacier

Juneau

In Juneau, Alaska’s state capital, we met our pilot for a dogsledding adventure on Mendenhall Glacier. We watched a short instructional film and were given special boots for walking on ice and snow, a noise-blocking headset with a microphone for the helicopter flight, and guidance on how to best enjoy the view of the massive blue-tinged icefield from above.

Our chopper ride was even more adventurous than anticipated. The fog (and wind) had started rolling in, and we were the last flight allowed to the glacier that day. First there were green mountains, then snow-covered ones, and finally glaciers appearing through almost whiteout conditions. Had the weather worsened, we might have spent the night at the dog camp with the mushers rather than returning to the Star Breeze. I felt like Neil Armstrong landing on the moon.

The dogsled ride was thrilling. We zipped through the all-white setting, led by a spirited team of canines. I alternated sitting in the sled or standing in the back with the musher. With the weather turning nastier by the minute, we started to fantasize about camping with the pups and their very special trainers, some of whom had participated in the Iditarod race. We had just enough time after our glide across the glacier to meet the dogs up close, pet them and learn a little about life on Mendenhall before boarding our chopper in the thickening mist.

Pro Tip: Does it take a bit of courage to do this trip? Well, yes. Especially if you’ve never been in a helicopter before. And once you land, you have a couple of choices to make: sitting in the sleigh as you careen across the snow, or taking a big sip of courage and standing on the wooden ski-like pedals at the back where you join with the dogs and musher in controlling speed and braking.

4. A Wildlife Safari

Sitka

Taking to the water allowed for another type of animal encounter. This time, on a small ferry-like boat from Sitka and narrated and guided by a naturalist, we searched for sea otters, eagles, and the very lazy harbor seals that seem to enjoy cuddling as much as hunting for fish.

This quest is hit-or-miss. You can circle and circle and see nothing for significant periods of time. You might distinguish more cloud shapes than animal silhouettes for a while, but when the animals appear, it’s magical. Bald eagles sit perched in treetops. Otters pop their furry heads up for a moment, diving back underwater almost as quickly as they appear. It occurred to me for a brief moment that I could have seen more marine life at my city aquarium. But what set this apart are the majesty of the setting and the unpredictability of nature as it reveals itself like the tease of the humpbacks we could only see at a distance.

5. A Vintage Locomotive Trip

Skagway

Listed as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the White Pass & Yukon Railroad in the gold rush town of Skagway dates from 1898. Tracing the steep route followed by Klondike Gold Rush Stampeders, a vintage railcar leaves Skagway depot traveling on a narrow-gauge railway overlooking gorges and scenic landmarks with evocative names like Bridal Veil Falls and Dead Horse Gulch. If you’re adventurous, this is a great excursion, and if you’re a photographer, it’s a real winner.

Between the cars, a moving platform beckons the daring to stand in the outdoors, caressed by the wind and protected from falling only by waist-high, wrought-iron railings. It’s pretty chilly out there, but the views make up for it as you ascend 2,888 feet. The “money shot,” from a photographic point-of-view, is a curve of the train’s front or back end, showing the cars in crescent formation as they round a bend.

There were many more “Kodak moments,” like when you traverse a wooden bridge high over the valley or enter a long tunnel and emerge from the dark to a burst of sunlight. White Pass Summit gave me a shiver as well — both U.S. and Canadian flags fly at the boundary between the two countries.

Pro Tip: Restored gold-rush town Skagway is a vivid historical immersion with museums focusing on the challenges (and lawlessness) of the prospectors, a saloon with a kitschy bordello tour (yes, it really was a brothel), and a 19th-century brewery updated slightly for today’s visitors. Don’t forget to look down — Skagway’s sidewalks are made of wood.

Windstar’s Alaskan Splendors Cruise

The 11-day itinerary from Alaska to Vancouver left from Seward, a 2 1/2-hour bus ride from Anchorage along Seward Highway, a designated National Forest Scenic Byway. While this wasn’t a scheduled excursion, it might well have been, passing along mountain-rimmed Turnagain Arm with non-stop, stunning vistas.

A cruise through the Bordeaux region of France is just what you might expect: a dining and drinking experience showing off the treasures of this important area where red and white wines have been produced since Roman times. Cruising along the small towns of the region with Scenic Cruises takes full advantage of this foodie dream, with the ship’s talented culinary staff incorporating area produce and specialties into French-inflected menus paired beautifully with many of Bordeaux’s 57 wine appellations.

Here are 10 culinary treats and experiences I loved on my Bordeaux Affair cruise onboard the Scenic Diamond.

Note: This information was obtained as part of a sponsored press trip, but all opinions are my own.

1. Oysters

Oysters are found in the Bassin d’Arcachon about 30 miles west of Bordeaux, and oyster bars feature them at Scenic’s port of embarkation, Bordeaux. Briny and larger than you might expect, these oysters are actually fork-worthy, not something that this inveterate slurper was used to. Try the Boite à Huîtres overlooking the Cours du Chapeau Rouge for a true Bordeaux oyster experience. There, your oysters should be ordered as the Bordelais do with crépinettes, small flat sausages.

Better still, enjoy them during Scenic’s onboard oyster night, where guests line up for oysters newly harvested and driven straight to the dock. With a lemon wedge, a spoon of mignonette, and a touch of hot sauce, they were slurpy perfection. The best wine to accompany? A fruity white Entre-deux-Mers from the fertile region between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers.

2. Foie Gras 

I can’t say that I had ever had foie gras in a casserole as it was served on the Scenic Diamond. Usually, you have a choice of seared duck or goose liver or a cold terrine sometimes splashed with pistachios. Or maybe you just eat it in a less obvious fashion as a pâté. Here, however, the foie was soft and delicate almost like a pudding, served in a ramekin with toppings of fig compote and sea salt.

As you select your daily excursions on Scenic Diamond, you may want to sign up for the tour of Bergerac, a charming town with a heritage of superior foie gras production. For one-stop shopping, Godard Specialiste de Foie Gras and 100-year-old Valette sell the Périgord specialty in many forms: foie gras in a jar, semi-cooked, canned, and truffled. A sweet Sauternes from Bordeaux is the perfect pairing.

3. Duck (And Other French Entrées)

Duck breast and duck leg confit à l’orange is a French specialty dating back to the Medici court, and Scenic made sure to include it on their dinner menu. Fresh, cooked to a medium temperature, with a skin crisped golden brown, the duck entrée was my favorite of all the choices during the week. Other entrées not to be overlooked, however, were beautifully presented French dishes including quiche Lorraine, lamb locally sourced from Paulliac, butterfish with lobster sauce, and boeuf Bourguignon. For those wanting dishes deemed more on the healthy side, there were low-carb and low-fat choices including salmon steak and chicken breast.

4. Omelets And Pasta

I am sensitive to lactose, so the morning omelet and afternoon pasta stations were my go-tos for tailormade, dairy-free dishes. With diced veggies ready for your selection, the omelet master would whip up a fluffy concoction for breakfast that felt like a cross between eggs over easy and a soufflé. For our later meals, the omelet station morphed into a pasta station. Tomato sauce with veggies, oil, garlic, and other ingredients could be selected to dress your favorite pasta. Adding to Scenic’s “have it your way” dining concept, these stations allowed you up-close observation of the chefs’ cooking finesse.

5. Food From The Carving Station

A highlight at every lunch was the end-of-the-buffet carving station which varied daily. One day you could feast on turkey, delicate and moist, as savory as you might find at any Thanksgiving dinner. Other times it was prime rib, chicken, or braised veal leg. All were plated with appropriate jellies, gravies, and mashed potatoes. And all were delicious in their simplicity.

6. Hamburgers And Fries

No, I’m not kidding. There was something very French and very delicious about the fries and burgers served for lunch. An item on the not-so-secret, “always available” menu, this combo was hard to forego with frites as delicious as these served in a charming little basket and burgers framed masterfully on a proper roll with lettuce, tomato, and onion.

7. Barbecue, French-Style

A weather-dependent event on the top deck, Scenic’s weekly barbecue was a lunchtime feast. I loved the ribs, cole slaw, chicken, and other typical “American” treats given a French spin with free-flowing Bordeaux vintages. While the windy conditions almost precluded the outdoor presentation, we were fortunate that moderate enough conditions prevailed and we could enjoy this meat-centric spread along with homemade sangria and views of the passing villes.

8. Crêpes Suzette

I first encountered Scenic’s sinful crêpes Suzette at a Scenic Culinaire cooking class that I took with a handful of passengers. Overseen by Executive Chef Normen Wolf and perfectly laid out ingredient by ingredient with a dollop of orange marmalade and a significant amount of butter, these pancakes were the stuff that dreams are made of.

Alas, owing to fire code regulations, they could not be served flambées, but the caramelized sugar and butter sauce made up for it — the taste was ethereal even without the flame. Happily, the crêpes were also served at dinner one evening so I could enjoy them one more time. Other Scenic Culinaire classes made soupe à l’oignon and Croque Madame (I did that one, too!), each with no more than 10 participants.

9. Chef’s Wine Selection And Bordeaux Wines

Savoir vivre quickly turned into “savor wine” on this lovely Bordeaux cruise. Each day, a carefully curated selection of red and white wines was offered to accompany the lunch and dinner menus. As we floated through Bordeaux — through storied wine villages like Saint-Émilion, Pauillac, and Médoc where we stopped to visit the barrel cellar of Château Lagrange and other vineyards — wines from local vintners were introduced with detailed tasting notes by Scenic’s sommelier and waitstaff.

My favorites were the red Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blends served slightly below room temperature and the lightly chilled white Sémillon and Sauvignon Gris combinations. Add to that an occasional flute of bubbly, a dessert wine like Sauternes or Cadillac, and the aperitif Lillet, and each meal on the Scenic Diamond became a celebration of the grape. If you’ve never tried Lillet, Bordeaux is its birthplace: the white, red, and unusual pink versions are a combination of red, white, or rosé wine with citrus liqueurs.

Did I hear Champagne at breakfast? Yes, that was always available, too, should you favor a morning tipple. A viniculture treat, an evening wine tasting at the Château D’Agassac, a stunning Haut-Médoc estate, was followed by a classical concert in the 13th-century castle with selections by Vivaldi, Dvořák, and Shostakovich.

Bordeaux wine shops and tasting rooms offer many options to refine your knowledge. Designed to look like a wine decanter, La Cité du Vin is the ultimate museum for wine lovers, with multiple floors detailing winemaking around the world and a top-floor tasting area with dramatic views of Bordeaux. Purchase your new favorites from the first-floor wine shop (a must-see) or at the comprehensive L’Intendant wine shop in Bordeaux — they ship their 15,000-some bottles anywhere.

For a romantic wine toast on land, Le Ferdinand at Bordeaux’s boutique hotel Villas Foch has sidewalk seating as well as an elegant bar in a 19th-century building. Art lovers should take a walk from the ship to La Petite Cave in Blaye to experience a wine tasting in an art gallery.

10. Canelés And Macarons

Canelés are a specialty of Bordeaux. A miniature cake that looks Iike a shrunken Bundt confection, a canelé is made with vanilla, sugar, butter, eggs, and a dash of rum. It’s difficult to eat only one — you just have to ignore the calories — and they pair perfectly with a double espresso. You can pick up a box to take home at Bar à Canelés Baillardran on Bordeaux’s main shopping street, rue Sainte-Catherine.

Cousin to the puffy ganache-filled version served aboard the Scenic Diamond, another French favorite and one with a special Bordeaux twist, the macaron appears in a version particular to Saint-Émilion. Almond flavored, the flat tan cookie dates back to the Ursulines religious order in 1620.

Both types of macarons could be found during our excursion to Saint-Émilion, and both pair perfectly, in my opinion, with the red wine of the region. You can purchase a take-home box of “original” macarons at Macarons Mouliérac, but watch your step — it’s a steep, stony climb to reach it.

Pro Tip: You’ll find macarons “on sticks” in a variety of flavors and offered 24/7, along with other savories and sweets including small sandwiches and “spoons,” adorable mason jars filled with gummy bears, Sour Patch Kids, and rainbow-colored marshmallows in the back of the bar. These savories and sweets satisfy any cravings for a goûter (snack), and an espresso machine provides 24-hour refreshment as well.

Pro Tip: Enjoy Breakfast On Your Private Balcony

Catching a breeze through the retractable glass windows on your balcony on the Scenic Diamond is a remarkable way to start the day. As you glide along the Garonne and Dordogne rivers and the Gironde estuary, your butler serves you oatmeal, yogurt, eggs, and an all-important croissant, with a pot of coffee to help you shake off any lingering slumber. Had I not needed to leave on an excursion, go to the spa or salt therapy room, or grab an electric bike, I could have curled up with my breakfast and the New York Times highlights and stared at the passing villages for most of the morning. This was true luxury, Scenic-style.

The year was 1995. It was my first time cruising a multi-port itinerary and my first time being in the Caribbean. I was almost in a state of disbelief that my wife and I were actually in the Caribbean. Yet, as excited as we were about the trip, it was tempered somewhat by what we didn’t know about such cruises.

All in all, it was a wonderful, unforgettable trip. Here are some of the things I learned on that cruise nearly 30 years ago; things that I have applied to all of the cruises I have taken since then and still follow to this day.

1. Weather May Affect Itineraries

Mother Nature is in charge, not the ship’s captain, and not you. No matter how much you are looking forward to it and just because you booked a cruise to a sunny destination that you spent 6 months planning doesn’t mean Mother Nature will get the memo. As massive as some of these modern cruise ships are — Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, scheduled to make her maiden voyage in 2024, will be 1,200 feet in length, displace 250,000 tons, and carry 7,600 vacationers — even they must yield when Mother Nature decides to assert herself.

Our itinerary on that ’95 cruise was altered due to the devastating effects of Hurricane Marilyn. We could not go to St. Thomas or St. Maarten. Instead, we were routed to St. Croix and St. Lucia. My very first cruise, a 3-day to Ensenada, México, could not dock due to high winds.

The experts at the cruise line’s headquarters on land constantly monitor conditions. They will direct ship captains to navigate around storms, or sail somewhere else to keep passengers safe and out of harm’s way. In rare circumstances, the sailing may be canceled completely.

Now that I know when cyclone/typhoon/hurricane season is, if I book during this time, I accept the risk.

Pro Tip: Purchasing travel insurance is something you should consider. Some policies have a “cancel for any reason” provision. These plans cost more but they will give a full refund if you decide to cancel.

2. A Cruise Director Can Make An Ordinary Cruise Extraordinary

Cruise directors can tell you a lot about the options your cruise line offers. They can also tell you almost everything you want to know about your cruise.

Greg Kneale, former cruise director (CD) at Carnival Cruise Line, set an astronomically high bar. Other CDs have said as much. The enthusiastic information he gave during our cruise was spot on. The shows he hosted elicited uproarious laughter from the audience. Because we met him in this way, we paid even more attention to the announcements he made. We looked forward to the onboard experiences he talked about.

On the other hand, I’ve been on a couple of cruises on different cruise lines since then where we never saw the CD during the entire cruise. We only heard them making announcements. Consequently, our onboard activities were somewhat lackluster.

Kneale offered a great insight: Cruises are like a sampler; you get just a taste of the destination. If you like it, you can go back for a longer stay on your own. I’ve taken that wisdom to heart and have had deeper experiences when revisiting my favorite Caribbean islands.

3. Stateroom Location Is Important

One reason we got such a great deal on our 1995 cruise was the location of our cabin, or stateroom as they’re called now. It was right above the thrusters. The thrusters announced our arrival into port each morning when they fired up. (No need for an alarm clock.)

Thrusters are a propulsion system that reduces or eliminates dependence on tug boats to nudge ships into and out of port. Modern ships use Azipods®, independent propulsion units that can be operated individually and swiveled 360 degrees, and are much quieter.

After that experience, I learned to look at the ship’s layout and choose staterooms carefully. You can look these up on your cruise line’s website. The ship’s diagram will also show the location of everything else on board. I try to avoid high traffic and noisy areas like the theater, nightclub, dining areas, and promenade deck.

Though the larger ships have stabilizers to smooth out all but the roughest voyages, some passengers do get seasick. If that is you, select a stateroom closest to the middle of the ship and on one of the lower decks.

Pro Tip: If you want to see how thrusters and Azipods® are used to maneuver these 1,000-foot-long behemoths, watch ships docking or undocking in Miami or Ensenada. Depending on their docking position, some ships will nimbly execute a pirouette on arrival or departure.

4. Try Destination-Themed Cuisine

If you’re not up to trying the local cuisine in the port cities you visit, or didn’t have an opportunity, the ship may serve destination-themed meals you should try. That is how I was first introduced to jerk chicken. A Baltic cruise introduced me to some German fare that we missed during our whirlwind tour of Berlin. It is a safe way to find out if you like a destination’s cuisine or not.

One night on the ’95 cruise, the main dining room featured jerk chicken. Sampling it led to a desire to try jerk chicken again, and an attempt to try to cook it at home. Seven years later, I found myself in Jamaica and couldn’t wait to try jerk chicken there. I’ve since found a few restaurants in the Los Angeles area that serve Jamaican food just like in Jamaica.

5. Meet The Crew

Treat the crew like people, not servants. That should go without saying, but there are endless accounts on cruise lines’ social media channels of disrespectful guests.

Try learning a word or two in a crew member’s native language. (Look at their name tag for their home country.) Their contracts can be several months long and they are away from their homes and families for that entire time. In some cases, your greeting may be the only time they hear their language spoken.

Even before our cruise began, we were given a tip by a crew member. Our flight arrived early in the afternoon and we had several hours before the ship departed. After checking in, we asked one of the crew members what there was to do while we waited. He suggested visiting the nearby Castillo San Felipe del Morro. He said it was within walking distance and told us exactly how to get there and back. We explored the fort, learned a bit, and made it back to the ship with plenty of time before departure.

Later during the cruise, after bumping into one of the crew members several times, we saw him in Barbados preparing to go for a run. We had a brief conversation about where he runs and he recommended some things to do in Barbados. Talking with crew members from Serbia on a couple of other cruises convinced me that I need to visit Serbia. Seeing crew members out in port during their free time also led to more recommendations of places to eat.

6. They Have Shore Excursions

My first reaction when we learned the cruise offered shore excursions was, “They have those?”

I have to be honest: I didn’t know they had shore excursions. This was back in the mid-1990s, pretty much pre-Internet. At that time, all there was were pamphlets. You went into the theater onboard where someone from the excursions team gave a talk about the tours that were available. You marked which one(s) you were interested in and signed up.

Today, you can sign up for an excursion online, in advance, and as soon as you’ve booked your cruise. I’d advise doing this, especially for popular excursions. Don’t get left out because you waited too long. That happened to me in 2018 when I couldn’t find a way to work out all of the places I wanted to visit during the short time I had in Curaçao.

Companies like Viator and Tours By Locals also offer shore excursions, providing even more options while you are in port. I’ve used both of these tour operators, but you may know of others.

Pro Tip: Don’t be a pier runner, or worse yet, miss your ship altogether. Book an excursion through the cruise line, or make sure any excursion you book on your own has a guarantee to return you to the ship on time.

7. They Have Post-Cruise Shore Excursions

On a similar note, we learned there were post-cruise shore excursions that drop you off at the airport after your tour. If your flight does not depart until later in the afternoon or evening, I highly recommend looking into a post-cruise excursion. It allows you to spend the time exploring the port city instead of trying to find transportation to the airport or spending several boring hours at said airport waiting for your flight. We took advantage of this on the 1995 cruise.

By taking advantage of post-cruise shore excursions on subsequent cruises, we’ve been able to explore London, Miami, San Juan, and have one booked following my upcoming cruise from Barbados.

With what I’ve learned, I now have more confidence going into each cruise. I now make more meaningful connections to each place I visit. The cruise industry is constantly changing, but the things I learned on that cruise almost 30 years ago continue to serve me well.

So you have decided to go on a cruise; now the fun begins. Cruise ships come in all shapes and sizes and with different cabin locations and configurations. You can cruise the open seas on a mega-ship that carries 3,000+ passengers or enjoy a relaxing river cruise that carries fewer than 200 passengers. Picking the right or the wrong cabin and location will have an impact on your cruise experience. For the purposes of this article, we will focus on cabins on mega-ship cruises.

Cabin prices are based on several factors. In general, paying more will usually result in a better cabin and location on the ship. The less you pay — well, “you get what you pay for.” Interior cabins are the least expensive and suites are the most expensive.

As the saying goes, location, location, location. With 32 years of travel industry experience, here are the cabins we recommend you avoid.

Cabin Locations To Avoid

1. Lower Decks

Lower decks can vary from ship to ship. Disney Cruise Lines start some of the passenger cabins on the first deck, but Royal Caribbean passenger cabins begin on deck two or three, and Princess’ lowest passenger cabins begin on deck four. You should avoid these if you are a light sleeper because they can be noisy. The lower cabins are in earshot of the areas on the ship that house storage and services, from food lockers to the laundry and the crew quarters. Being located close to the water can make passengers prone to seasickness. The lowest decks, one and two, are close to the waterline. Since you can see the waves rushing the ship, it could cause issues.

2. Near Elevators

Cruises are great because they have activities early in the morning and late into the night. But if your cabin is by the elevators, you will hear all the fun! It can be very noisy in these areas and can interrupt your sleep. On most ships, the elevators are located in the front and back of the ship, while the biggest ships have them in the center as well.

3. Near Activity Decks

Cabins located near the activity decks make it harder to get a restful night’s sleep. These areas include atriums, pools, gyms, dining rooms, casinos, and theaters. These are areas where people typically congregate into the late hours of the night. All cruise lines are different but the pool decks are usually on 14. Atriums, shops, dining, and clubs are typically on deck five or six.

4. The Front Or The Back Of The Ship

If you get seasick, these are the two areas to avoid. You can feel more movement in the front and back of the ship. Also, the anchor(s) are in the front of the ship. If your ship is moored when in ports and not always at a dock, the sound of the anchor being dropped into the water can be earth-shattering if you are fast asleep.

Pro Tip: Most cruise ships are fitted with stabilizing systems that limit much of the movement that can cause motion sickness.

5. Interior

These cabins are smaller, with no windows or natural light. They are located close to the interior corridors that are only used by the crew for transporting goods and services throughout the ship. These areas can be noisy due to the constant use by the crew. Some passengers may get claustrophobic and seasick without a window to look out. However, newer ships offer “virtual windows or balconies” broadcasting a real-time video of the scene outside the ship from the same position as your cabin.

Now, it’s important to note that interior cabins offer the best value on a cruise. You usually get all the standard amenities you would get with booking most other cabins. But you also could miss out on the reason you’re cruising in the first place. For example, on an Alaskan cruise, an interior room would prevent you from taking in so much of the breathtaking scenery, whereas a cabin with a sea view or balcony would allow you to experience it by just looking out your room window. Some people spend little time in their cabins, while others spend time relaxing, eating, or reading a book in their cabin. An interior room could feel like close quarters if you like to spend time in your room.

6. Guaranteed Option

When you book your cabin, we suggest not choosing the guaranteed cabin option. This is the option the cruise line selects for you any time before embarkation day. They can put you in a cabin, on a lower deck, with an obstructed view, looking out at lifeboats, near the elevators, or by the casino with noise and smell of smoke.

7. Upgraded Cabins

You might want to avoid the upgrade option. Most cruise lines offer an option to bid on an upgraded cabin. This allows the cruise line to move your cabin to another location on the ship. Although it may sound like a good option and you may end up in a nicer cabin, you also may be away from friends and family if you are traveling with a group. Or it may be in one of those areas on the ship that your travel agent helped you avoid in the first place!

Best Cabin Location

Mid-Ship Upper Deck

Now you know the cabins to avoid, but where is the best place to spend your cruise? We recommend this tried and true location for just about every cruise.

Mid-ship cabins are our pick for the best cabins on the ship. Pick a deck sandwiched between 2 other cabin decks. These floors are usually the quietest and most centrally located. We recommend cabins in the vicinity of decks 7 to 11 on most ships.

Pro Tip: We recommend first-time cruisers pick a balcony or ocean view cabin. Balcony cabins usually offer the largest selection on cruise ships and come in a variety of layouts. Ocean view cabins offer a window, or porthole, providing natural light and giving you a view of the sea and the surroundings.

A travel agent can also help you find the best cabins for your particular cruise based on people, activities, and accessibility. We would be happy to help you plan your next cruise. You can find out more about the latest deals and places to visit at DreamVacations.

I have been on several cruises and travel adventures around the world, but recently, I’ve felt the need to focus on discovering great destinations closer to home. The U.S. is filled with countless experiences that travelers can unlock, and a river cruise offers the chance to see so many things in an efficient, hassle-free, and fun way.

Our summer cruise on the Ohio River took us from Pittsburgh to Louisville, and the itinerary included stops in Marietta, Ohio; Huntington, West Virginia; Augusta, Kentucky; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Madison, Indiana, before reaching Louisville.

I had been on voyages on the Mighty Mississippi River and even a couple in the Pacific Northwest on the Columbia and Snake rivers that traverse through Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. These itineraries are fairly well known, but I was fascinated to see what an Ohio River cruise was all about. I was happy to accept an invite from American Queen Voyages to review this special itinerary.

As it turns out, it’s filled with memorable experiences and a range of fun ways to spend your days. The best part about our trip, though, was how we got there. American Queen owns a special charm and an incredible river cruise program that makes it a favorite way to cruise within the U.S. Here’s why.

1. An Itinerary With Small Towns And Big Cities

Pittsburg, Pennsylvania

American Queen Voyages offers a pre-cruise hotel stay in Pittsburgh, and it was nice to explore the City of Bridges for a day. We had lunch at the famous Primanti Brothers, diving into our hearty sandwiches — complete with fries stuffed onto the pastrami between slices of Italian bread. And we washed it down with a couple of Iron City beers.

The embarkation pier for the riverboat sits at the doorstep of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ football stadium, making for a scenic sail away from the confluence of the three rivers (Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela).

Cincinnati, Ohio

The cruise also features a stop in Cincinnati and wraps up in Louisville, so travelers have opportunities to explore these interesting big cities and all they have to offer. We went for a bike ride on the riverfront, explored the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, and had lunch and craft beers at Moerlein Lager House.

Louisville, Kentucky

In Louisville, cruisers can explore city highlights like the famed Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby track) or the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory before catching flights back home.

These big cities are nice, but it’s the small towns that really make this trip shine. Residents gather along the banks of the river to cheer our arrival or give us a friendly sendoff each day. Each riverside destination, no matter how small, loves to show off its slice of American history and regional attractions, such as quirky museums, pretty churches, and, of course, its local shops and eateries.

Marietta, Ohio

In Marietta, Ohio, attractions included Mound Cemetery, one of the oldest in the original Northwest Territory, the Ohio River Museum, and the Childen’s Toy & Doll Museum.

Huntington, West Virginia

When I went ashore in Huntington, West Virginia, the hop-on, hop-off bus loop took us to the Touma Medical Museum, a delightful little open-air railroad museum (a yard filled with colorful old rail cars), Ritter Park Rose Garden, and the Marshall University Campus, which features a wonderful grounds filled with statues, sculptures, trees, and flowers.

Augusta, Kentucky

In Augusta, Kentucky, AQV passengers were able to walk just a few hundred steps from our spot on the river to explore the Rosemary Clooney Museum. This is the former home of actress, singer, and aunt to superstar George Clooney. Highlights of this charming town also include Bates Garden, the 1811 Jail, and Baker-Bird Winery.

Madison, Indiana

There was another railroad museum to see in Madison, Indiana, and the town also lists the Schroeder Saddletree Factory, the Broadway Fountain, and Lanier Mansion as top attractions for visitors to check out.

2. Enriching Entertainment

While each port stop features a variety of things for cruisers to explore, this fancy riverboat offers a daily program with a mix of musical performances, trivia competitions, movies, bingo, and variety shows. 

Music, trivia, and enrichment talks are held in American Queen’s majestic Grand Saloon theater space. During our cruise, we saw Phil Westbrook several times, as the singer and piano man performed a tribute to Frank Sinatra as well as entertained passengers at the intimate Captain’s Bar just outside the main J.M. White Dining Room.

We also dropped by the theater for shows by guitarist Logan Reeves and a song and dance variety production on TV theme songs from the American Queen Ensemble and the Steamboat Syncopators house band. The shows draw on plenty of nostalgia but definitely favor an era more familiar to cruisers 70 and older. However, the overall mood is quite fun.

A hip vibe can be found nightly at the Engine Room Bar, where the ship’s musicians get the crowd dancing with a great mix of blues and rock tunes.

3. Regionally Inspired Cuisine

The American Queen chefs kept us well-fed. Meals are served in the main dining room and in the casual eatery called the Front Porch, which offers wonderful views as you cruise on the river. When the weather is nice, it’s worth having at least one dinner outside there to enjoy the sunset and sailing.

The menu includes items like chicken fried steak, frog legs, and a variety of steak and fish preparations. The cuisine is more hearty than healthy, but you can find some fresh fruits and salads in the mix at the lunch buffets. We were always tempted by the mouth-watering selection of homemade pies and slices of chocolate cake set out each day at lunch. There always is a delicious soup, gumbo, or chili available, too.

If you need a snack, you can swing by the Front Porch for a bag of fresh popcorn, a couple of cookies, or a soft-serve ice cream cone or dish.

4. Set Your Own Pace

As a person who loves his daily workouts, I’m happy that a river cruise on American Queen makes it easy. Not only is there a well-equipped gym, but the ship carries a fleet of bikes. Colleen and I started several days with a run along the riverside trails through small towns or by grabbing a couple of bikes to go exploring independently.

In general, river cruising allows travelers the chance to explore on their own in a hassle-free way. It’s so easy to stroll onto and off of the ship at your leisure, and the towns and cities are mere steps away. You can go set your own schedule for the day if you’re not interested in rigorously following the ship excursion program.

Pro Tip: Ask crew members for their insight on nice places to eat or go shopping — or for their favorite places to get a coffee or craft brew. We received great insight from lead butler Adam, who is a coffee connoisseur and loves to find and frequent local cafes along all the river towns he visits.

5. Hop-On, Hop-Off Tours

American Queen Voyages provides a wonderful service in its hop-on, hop-off bus routes in each city and on each river itinerary that it operates. Passengers walk off the ship and straight onto waiting buses with clear signage at each stop along the route at the attractions in town.

Cruisers love being able to have peace of mind that they will see a nice mix of highlights in each port without worrying about transportation. You can get off at each spot or pick and choose what you are interested in on the loop.

6. Plenty Of Space Onboard

American Queen itself is an attraction. Built in 2012 and carrying up to 417 passengers, this is the largest steamship ever built. The décor takes you back in time to a golden era of steamship travel. The Grand Saloon resembles a 19th-century opera house with private boxes wrapped around the theater and hanging over the main level and the stage adorned with a large red curtain.

Chandeliers fill the main restaurant, rocking chairs line the railings on the front porch, and gingerbread ornamentation accents the staircases and stateroom patios of the bright white ship. The signature big red paddlewheel churns at the stern of the ship helping to power the voyage along the river.

American Queen features a large Mark Twain Gallery that serves as a reading room (with a small computer area). It’s outfitted with vintage lamps and antique chairs and all kinds of mementos of a bygone time, including river ship models, paintings, books, vases, and other collectibles.

There are two parlors at the very front of the ship ahead of the Main Twain Gallery, and these spots also are carefully decorated and ideal for working on puzzles, reading, or enjoying the river views while relaxing with friends.

7. Scenic Sailing

I found the periods of sailing from town to town one of the most relaxing and satisfying parts of this river cruise. It was fabulous to watch the world floating by, with the pretty evening sunsets, flowing waters, and subtle bends in the river. We would pass under a variety of bridge styles and see trains on adjacent tracks and tugboats pushing coal barges.

Cruisers also enjoyed the process of watching our big riverboat pass through the locks along the way.

Pro Tip: Make sure to head up to the top deck for sail aways each day. Crowds gather along the banks of the river to wave you off and wish you well on the journey. And one of the musicians will come out to play some tunes on the boat’s steam calliope. It’s a fun spectacle!

Both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean have private islands in the Bahamas. Disney has Castaway Cay and Royal Caribbean has Perfect Day at CocoCay. Both islands are favorites with passengers, but which one is right for you as you’re planning a cruise?

Castaway Cay is currently a stop on several cruises going out of Miami and Port Canaveral. You might occasionally get lucky and find a Castaway Cay stop on longer cruises from Galveston. 

CocoCay is a stop on many Royal Caribbean cruises going out of Miami and Port Canaveral. The new Wonder of the Seas is homeported in Port Canaveral and all Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises on that ship include a stop at CocoCay.

I’ve been on two cruises that stopped at CocoCay (recently hosted by Royal Caribbean on their new ship, Wonder of the Seas) and on a handful of Disney Cruises that stop at Castaway Cay. Here’s how they stack up.

Pro Tip: The “Cay” in Castaway Cay is pronounced key. The “Cay” in CocoCay is pronounced phonetically — rhymes with bay. Perfect Day at CocoCay has a nice, rhyme-y ring to it.

1. Island Size And Ship Capacity

Castaway Cay: Larger, But Accommodates Just One Ship

Castaway Cay is 3.1 miles long and 2.2 miles wide. To date, only one ship docks at Castaway Cay at a time, so when you get off the ship to enjoy the island amenities, you and your fellow passengers will be the only ones there. We’ll see if this changes with Disney rapidly expanding its fleet of ships and adding a new island stop in Eleuthera.

CocoCay: Slightly Smaller With Space For Two Ships

CocoCay is 1 mile long and 1/3 of a mile wide. While it’s smaller than Castaway Cay, its infrastructure can accommodate two ships. Considering that Royal’s ships are larger than Disney’s ships, that puts considerably more people on the island. There were two ships docked at CocoCay on both days that I visited, but the beaches and buffets did not feel crowded to me. I had no trouble finding a beach chair and the lines to get food were not overly long.

2. Getting Around The Islands

Castaway Cay: More Spread Out, More Paved Paths, More Undeveloped Land

Visitors to Castaway Cay can get around the island by tram, on foot, or on a bicycle. More detailed info about the trams is included below. Bikes can be rented near the family beach area. The island has a very spread-out feel to it. Much of the island is undeveloped (you’ll get a great view from the ship coming or going) but there are several paved roads that will get you around the island. 

Going to the beach is most people’s choice pastime at Castaway Cay — it is certainly mine. Once you’re off the ship on Castaway Cay, you have about a 5-minute walk to get to the first tram stop. The ride to the family beach area is less than 5 minutes. You can also walk — there’s a nice paved pathway, and, depending on how quickly you walk, you can get from the ship to the family beach in about 15 minutes.

Pro Tip: If interacting with Disney characters and fun photo opportunities are on your cruise agenda, take the walk because this is where the characters hang out. The walking path and the tram route follow the same scenic view of the ocean and water recreation areas. 

The family beach area is the island’s hub. In addition to beach chairs, you’ll find shopping, food, bars, and gear rental kiosks. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you can transfer trams and go to the aptly named Serenity Bay, the adults-only beach (more on that below).

There’s also a 40-foot observation tower located near Serenity Bay you can climb for epic views of the island and your ship. Castaway Cay has more natural beauty than CocoCay, mostly due to the heavier vegetation and large, undeveloped areas. When I see the island from up above or from a distance, I always think, “Wow, Disney could put a lot more stuff here,” but I’m glad they haven’t done that.

CocoCay: Compact But With More Activity Choices

Visitors can get around CocoCay by tram or on foot. The island is smaller than Castaway Cay and everything is more compact and closer together (although it doesn’t feel crowded), so there are no bikes or bike paths. Most of the paths on CocoCay are paved, but a few dirt and sand pathways might be more difficult to navigate for those with mobility limitations.

When you disembark at CocoCay, a few steps will get you to the line for golf carts to take you to the tram stop. If you want to forgo the golf cart ride, the walk to the tram stop is about 7 minutes. The tram takes you around to the various hangout spots on CocoCay.

Pro Tip: It will be helpful to have an idea of where you want to stop on CocoCay — I recommend looking at a map and asking crew or more experienced passengers for recommendations so you have a plan for where you’re going to hang your beach towel for the day. 

The different tram stops (beach areas, pool, and lagoon area) are not very far apart from each other, and you’re not going to be far from the ship, which is something that I didn’t realize the first time I boarded the tram on CocoCay. I personally think walking is quicker and easier than navigating the island via tram but anyone with mobility restrictions or traveling with small children might prefer or need to use the tram. 

Things are closer together on CocoCay than they are on Castaway Cay and since the island is smaller, getting around is a bit faster, especially if you’re walking rather than taking the tram. You might miss the more open views of the ocean (which you’ll get plenty of onboard your cruise ship) and the lush vegetation that Castaway Cay has, but the tradeoff is more activity choices that Disney doesn’t offer.

Pro Tip: Although there’s no observation tower to climb, Royal Caribbean has other ways to get a great view of the island, such as a hot air balloon ride and zipline, described in more detail below.

Trams (And Accessibility) On Both Islands

The trams on Castaway Cay and CocoCay run continuously throughout the day and reduce the walking guests have to do on the islands. The walk from the ship to the family beach area on Castaway Cay is about 10 to 15 minutes. I have never walked all the way to Serenity Bay, but it’s about 2 miles from where the ship docks, so you’re looking at quite a hike. The walk from the ship to the beaches and pool areas on CocoCay is 10 to 20 minutes, depending on where you want to end up. 

Both Castaway Cay and CocoCay offer accessible trams that accommodate guests who use wheelchairs but they are not able to hold scooters. Both islands offer a limited number of beach-accessible wheelchairs. Although I don’t use an assistive device and have not traveled with anyone that does, I think Castaway Cay is easier to get around for anyone with mobility restrictions. Castaway Cay offers wide, paved paths throughout the island. CocoCay offers some paved paths, while other walkways are sand/dirt paths. 

I was not a fan of the tram service on either island. Although the lines are typically long to get on the trams in the morning (both islands) the lines tend to move pretty quickly and efficiently earlier in the day. The return trips are more chaotic. Everyone on the island is trying to get back to the ship and I’ve seen bottlenecks and poor crowd control from both cruise lines. If you want to be back on board at a specific time, I recommend walking, if you’re able. It’s an opportunity to walk off some of that cruise food and get some great pictures of the ship(s) in port. Otherwise, build extra time into your schedule to wait for the tram. 

Note that you can walk right off the ship (no tendering required) at both Castaway Cay and CocoCay.

3. What’s Included?

Castaway Cay: Waterslides, Ocean Swimming, And Disney’s Youth Clubs

Disney’s Castaway Cay includes towels, chairs and loungers, water slides and water play areas, and a buffet lunch. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes burgers, dogs, grilled chicken, salads, corn on the cob, fresh fruits, cookies, brownies, banana bread, and soft-serve ice cream. There’s a veggie burger option and usually some type of fish — Mahi Mahi or salmon. Fountain sodas are included.

Pro Tip: There’s a separate buffet on Serenity Bay, Castaway Cay’s adult-only beach that usually serves grilled ribeye in addition to the buffet fare previously mentioned above.

Castaway Cay does not provide lockers and does not have pools. Guests swim in the ocean and there’s a small splash pad for kids.

Disney’s youth clubs move to Castaway Cay when the ship is docked, which is a great way for parents to have some time to do something on their own.

Fun Fact: Disney used to host formal Castaway Cay 5Ks in the mornings. Pre-2020, races were organized like real road races, with a clock timer, a marked route, a halfway point water stop, and a finisher’s medal. You can race on your own, and guests are instructed to contact guest services once back on the ship to get their medals, but I hope the full experience comes back soon. The races were walker friendly (a great way to see the island), and many people came out to race in Disney-themed costumes.

CocoCay: Pools, A Swim-Up Bar, And Beaches, Too

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay includes towels (my stateroom attendant kindly left me a towel the night before we docked at CocoCay, and there were towel exchange stations on the island), use of pools and splash pads, and a buffet lunch. Lunch is served from 11 to 3 and includes burgers, hot dogs, hot sandwiches (when I visited there was a portobello sandwich, a shaved ribeye sandwich, and a Cuban), French fries, salads, fresh fruits, cookies, brownies, soft serve ice cream, and a taco bar that rivals Chipotle. Juices and ice water are included.

CocoCay has complimentary lockers and a freshwater pool with a swim-up bar and three swim-up islands. The pool also has in-water loungers and underwater music. You can’t stay submerged forever, but the sounds below the surface are a fun novelty. There’s also plenty of opportunity to swim in the ocean from several of the island’s beach areas. 

4. What Costs Extra?

Castaway Cay: Snorkel Gear, Bikes, And Beachside Massages

Snorkel or scuba equipment, kayaks, or excursion-level activities like glass-bottom boat rides, sea kayaking, or parasailing will cost extra. Floats, tubes, and bicycles are available to rent. The island is very bike and runner-friendly. 

Castaway Cay has spa treatments available — if you want a massage in a tranquil, beachfront hut, book in advance because they’re very popular. There’s also limited shopping — think souvenirs and sundries, such as sunscreen. The draw of shopping at Castaway Cay is snagging Disney-branded merchandise exclusive to the island. 

A Note On Adult Beverages: Alcohol is extra on Castaway Cay. There are four beach bars selling beer, wine, and cocktails. Disney Cruise Line also sells a beer package on board with a soft-sided cooler to carry your drinks to the beach.

CocoCay: Hot Air Balloon Rides, Ziplining, And A Full Waterpark

Snorkel or scuba equipment, kayaks, and excursion-level activities like glass-bottom boat rides, sea kayaking, or parasailing will cost extra. Floats and tubes are available to rent. No bikes. CocoCay isn’t bike or runner friendly. 

CocoCay has more activity choices than Castaway Cay. CocoCay also has a full water park and a hot air balloon-like activity called Up, Up, and Away that gives a bird’s-eye view of the island from 450 feet in the air. It’s exactly like Aerophile at Disney Springs. The balloon remains anchored to the ground and doesn’t operate in windy weather. Ziplining is also available. 

ThrilThe crown jewel of CocoCay is the Thrill Water Park, which is probably the first thing you’ll notice when you take your first peek at CocoCay from the ship. The water park has eight slides and a wave pool and boasts the tallest water slide in North America, Daredevil’s Peak.

CocoCay also offers shopping. There’s a large selection of sundries, souvenirs, and beachwear. 

If you’re traveling with tweens, teens, or young adults in your travel group, the extras at CocoCay might be a big hit with your group. A more sedate beach day might not be everyone’s thing and although the more thrill-seeking options cost extra, they’re not crazy expensive. Definitely consider working them into your vacation budget. 

Adult Beverages And Transferrable Onboard Drink Packages: Alcohol is extra on CocoCay, but if you’ve purchased the onboard drink package, it will transfer to the island. Small beach bars seemed to be available adjacent to every lounging area. 

5. Adult-Only Areas

Castaway Cay: Serenity Bay

Castaway Cay’s Serenity Bay is a more tranquil version of the family beaches on the other side of the island. If you can snag one of the hammocks, life doesn’t get any better. Serenity Bay also has its own lunch buffet so you can enjoy your food in a completely kid-free setting. 

CocoCay: Adult-Only Space Coming Soon

Currently, CocoCay has no adults-only area, but there is one under construction.

6. Exclusive-Access Areas

Castaway Cay: Family And Adult-Only Cabanas

Disney rents family cabanas and adults-only cabanas over on the Serenity Bay side. Castaway Cay cabanas are notoriously difficult to rent. There aren’t many cabanas and the Concierge and Platinum Castaway Club members get first dibs and usually snap them up quickly. 

CocoCay: Cabanas, Daybeds, And Coco Beach Club

CocoCay also has cabanas and daybeds available for rent throughout the island as well as a dedicated exclusive access area, the Coco Beach Club. The Coco Beach Club, purchased with a per-person, per-day pass, offers included, elevated dining, an infinity pool with loungers in the water, and a private beach area with fluffier towels than everyone else has. There are cabanas and daybeds within the Coco Beach Club available for an extra charge. If you want the ultimate in splurges, get one of the overwater bungalows with a private slide.

Coco Beach Club is not adults-only, although I saw very few kids on the day I visited.

7. Theme And Vibe

Castaway Cay: Disney-Themed Without Being Over The Top

The theme of Castaway Cay is obviously Disney. There are Disney characters in bathing suits (so cute!) and statues of Mickey and other characters below the surface in the snorkel lagoon. Even on the adults-only beach, the subtle, instrumental jams you hear while you’re sipping your Mai Tai in a hammock are grownup renderings of beloved Disney tunes.

CocoCay: Colorful Island Vibes

CocoCay has a cheerful Bahamian vibe but no strong theme beyond that. Certain areas have a more chill atmosphere and others have more of a party vibe. During my visits, I found Chill Island to be a more relaxed spot and the Oasis Lagoon and South Beach to be where the more high-energy crowds gathered. 

8. Food On The Island

Castaway Cay: Backyard Barbecue

Both Castaway Cay and CocoCay offer a buffet lunch that’s included in the price of your cruise. Castaway Cay has two buffet locations near the family beaches, Cookie’s BBQ and Cookie’s Too BBQ. The adults-only beach, Serenity Bay, offers a third barbecue buffet. Cookie’s and Cookie’s Too offer up burgers (veggie burgers are also available), hot dogs, grilled chicken sandwiches, and typically some type of grilled fish. I have seen both salmon and Mahi Mahi on the buffets at Castaway Cay. 

Side dishes include cold couscous salad, potato salad, corn on the cob, fresh fruit, and individual packets of Lay’s potato chips. If you have a sweet tooth, there are plenty of chocolate chip cookies and sliced banana bread, but my favorite dessert is the soft-serve ice cream, located next to the self-serve soda dispensers. The buffet on Serenity Bay is almost identical to the buffets in the family beach areas, but it also offers grilled ribeye and Greek salad with huge chunks of feta. 

You’ll find plenty of picnic table seating in the shade adjacent to all the buffets. Food is served from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Castaway Cay fare is plentiful but it’s a little on the bland side. It checks the box for lunch, but it’s nothing to write home about.

CocoCay: More Choices, Better Burgers

CocoCay has two buffets, Skipper’s Grill and Chill Grill (again, both included in the price of your cruise). The menus are identical and the beach-themed decor is similar in both locations. Chill Grill has more seating in the shade. The buffets serve burgers (veggie burgers, too) hot dogs, and sandwiches (I spotted a Cuban sandwich, a shaved ribeye, and a portobello mushroom sandwich). There’s also a taco bar where you can build your own tacos or bowls, similar to what you’d find at Chipotle or Qdoba, and a separate sauce bar with fresh salsa and guacamole. 

Side dishes include french fries, corn on the cob, salads, and fresh fruit. Available desserts include cookies, fudge brownies, and soft-serve ice cream. Lemonade, iced tea, and ice water are complimentary but sodas are not included.

Transferrable Onboard Drink Packages: If you’ve purchased a beverage package for your cruise, good news — it transfers to CocoCay. 

CocoCay also has three Snack Shacks serving burgers, salads, mozzarella sticks, funnel cakes, and more. Snack Shack food is included in the cost of your cruise. 

Food is served from 11:30 until 3 p.m. I found the buffet food colorful and flavorful. I was a huge fan of the taco bar, and that’s what I ate both days. I sampled both a regular burger and a vegetarian burger and both were much more flavorful and juicy than the burgers I’ve had at Castaway Cay. The availability of hot, fresh fries is a pretty simple thing but really won me over. 

So, Which Do I Prefer?

I like them both. The Disney theming is dear to my heart and the pixie dust is the perfect amount to feed my nostalgia without being too theme parky.

I’m a pretty low-key beachgoer. It’s the same ocean, and as long as I have a chair and umbrella, I don’t need extras. Despite the options on CocoCay, I spent my day exactly as I would have on Castaway Cay, although Royal Caribbean is the clear winner when it comes to island dining. It would go a long way if Disney would lose the bagged chips and get some real fries. 

That said, I have two tween sons who would have been all about that Thrill Waterpark and extra choices. They were not with me on either of my trips to CocoCay, and although I haven’t confirmed my hypothesis, I think my kids would prefer Royal Caribbean’s island over Disney’s and that CocoCay would do a better job at making everyone happy. 

Western Caribbean cruises offer an enticing blend of spectacular beaches, reef-filled turquoise waters, thrilling adventures, ancient archeological sites, and amazing nature-related experiences. These warm-weather sailings provide exciting activities and attractions for all ages and interests.

Western Caribbean cruise ports can include sunny islands, towns along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, and Central American Caribbean destinations in Honduras and Belize. Cruise lines offer a wide variety of Western Caribbean itineraries from easy-to-reach homeports along the southern U.S. coast.

I was invited to sail with Princess Cruises on one of its Royal Class and MedallionClass ships, Sky Princess.

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat cruise line, and relaxation, reconnection, and renewal are the name of the game. You won’t find massive water slides or go-kart tracks on the top decks of these ships. There are tons of pools, hot tubs, and lounge areas instead.

Here are nine reasons why you’ll love sailing with Princess Cruises.

1. MedallionClass Technology

Princess Cruises’ award-winning MedallionClass technology offers a distinct advantage, making life onboard easier and hassle-free. The Princess MedallionClass experience uses a wearable, quarter-sized Medallion device and the line’s MedallionClass app to activate numerous benefits. Some of my favorites include unlocking stateroom doors, ordering food and drinks for delivery, quickly checking onboard expenses, and finding family members anywhere on the ship.

Download the MedallionClass app well in advance so you can get familiar with it and get OceanReady. You can customize your Medallion device through the MedallionClass app when ordered well ahead of time, and it will be delivered to your home before your cruise. Guests can also pick up their medallions at embarkation.

Pro Tips: There’s a MedallionClass presentation in the Princess Live! Lounge on embarkation day. If you miss it, staff are available at OceanFront on Deck 7 to provide assistance throughout the cruise.

2. Exciting Shore Excursions

Princess Cruises offers a wide variety of shore excursions in each of their Caribbean ports of call. Western Caribbean shore excursions range from exploring ancient Mayan ruins to beach escapes, zip line adventures, wildlife encounters, and brewery tours. There are appealing options for all age groups, allowing guests to explore their unique interests. Two of my favorite shore excursions were our multi-hour luxury catamaran sail and snorkel trip in Cozumel and a fun-filled Belize airboat tour complete with sightings of a baby manatee, crocodiles, and brightly colored birds.

Princess Cruises also offers unique tours recommended by two well-known names in adventure and exploration — Discovery and Animal Planet. Discovery and Animal Planet recommended shore excursions are exclusive small-group offerings that provide enriching, immersive experiences. These include scuba diving expeditions, Mayan ruin explorations, cave tubing adventures, and culinary workshops.

Make sure to read shore excursion descriptions carefully for details on pricing, required age and fitness levels, weight and medical restrictions, and other topics. Guests with mobility issues should make note of any excursions requiring walking on uneven surfaces. In addition, check to see if you’ll need to bring along items such as water shoes and reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen.

Pro Tip: Book your shore excursions immediately after your final cruise payment, as popular tours can sell out quickly.

3. Outstanding Service

Warm, welcoming service is one of the hallmarks of the Princess cruise experience. Sky Princess carries close to 1,400 hard-working crew members, and the service on our sailing was exceptional. Guests are treated royally on this ship.

Crew members in every Sky Princess venue went out of their way to ensure we were happy, and other guests on board raved about the superb service. The ship’s MedallionClass technology makes it easier for crew members to provide highly personalized service, but their warm smiles and friendly greetings come straight from the heart.

Pro Tip: Connecting with friendly crew members is often a cruise highlight. They are an excellent source of information, so make sure to ask if you need insights or assistance.

4. Included Dining Options

Sky Princess features over a dozen dining options for guests to enjoy. The ship has three main dining rooms where meals are included as part of the cruise fare. We enjoyed two dinners in the Cielo main dining room and breakfast in the Soleil dining venue on one day at sea. While all were fine, we tended to prefer the many casual included dining options available on Sky Princess.

World Fresh Marketplace and Alfredo’s Pizzeria were two of my favorites. World Fresh Marketplace offers a wide variety of food stations with an impressive selection of menu items, particularly for lunch and dinner. One of the most popular areas is the Pastry Shop, serving delectable desserts and afternoon tea items. The restaurant also features a dedicated vegan station and vegetarian options.

Alfredo’s Pizzeria is one of the top pizzerias at sea, and their made-to-order pizzas, pasta, and calzones were superb. This complimentary, full-service restaurant offers numerous pizza choices as well as antipasti, soup, salad, and desserts. Alfredo’s Pizzeria is popular for lunch and dinner, so arrive early.

Additional complimentary dining venues on Sky Princess include the International Café, Swirls, Slice, and the Salty Dog Grill, plus room service. The 24-hour International Café was our go-to spot for specialty coffees, which cost extra.

Pro Tip: World Fresh Market has different daily themes and specials, which are listed in the Princess Patter daily newsletter. Don’t miss the Pastry Extravaganza on your last day at sea.

5. Memorable Specialty Restaurants

One of Princess Cruises’ key strengths is dining, and the paid dining experiences on Sky Princess were some of the high points of our cruise. I sampled almost all of the ship’s specialty restaurants, which were exceptional.

Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria is a Princess Cruises signature restaurant serving traditional Italian specialties, and their freshly made pasta, seafood entrees, and decadent desserts were superb. The award-winning Crown Grill is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or celebration, and I would strongly recommend dining here at least once during your voyage. Renowned 3-Michelin Star chef Emmanuel Renaut created a menu of tantalizing French dishes for Bistro Sur La Mer, and our appetizers, entrees, and desserts were exquisite.

Another added-fee restaurant stood out on Sky Princess. Gelato serves certified authentic Italian gelato, and it’s the best I’ve had at sea. The gelateria offers numerous flavors, plus toppings and sauces are available.

Pro Tip: Make specialty dining reservations as soon as you have made your final cruise payment for the best selection of dates and dining times.

6. Pools And Lounge Areas

Sun decks and pool areas are popular on Caribbean cruises, and Sky Princess is designed to handle the demand. Guests on Sky Princess can choose from multiple pools, hot tubs, and lounge zones which are perfect for relaxing. We could always find lounge chairs around one of the ship’s pools, even on busy sea days. With the ship at almost full capacity, that was a big plus.

Don’t miss the hot tubs along the ship’s sides on Deck 17 and the adults-only Retreat Pool on Deck 17 forward. That two-level Retreat area is quieter and was one of my favorite places to chill out on Sky Princess.

Pro Tips: The Wakeview infinity pool on Deck 16 aft can be a beautiful place to have coffee and watch spectacular sunrises. The glass-floored Seawalk on Deck 16 is a popular spot for photos and videos.

7. The Lotus Spa

Princess Cruises’ Lotus Spa offers a wide range of spa treatments, including massages, wraps, facials, and salon services for both women and men. Spa services are in high demand, so book treatments in advance for the best selections of dates and times. The spa staff on Sky Princess is superb, and my hot stone massage was one of the best I’ve had.

The spa also includes The Enclave, a fee-based thermal suite area with a hydrotherapy pool, a Turkish hammam steam bath, an aromatherapy steam room, a heated Laconium dry chamber, heated stone beds, and other features. It’s a relaxing oasis, and passes are required.

Pro Tip: Spa specials may be available on port days. Passes for The Enclave thermal suite can only be purchased onboard the ship, so head to the Lotus Spa on embarkation day to make your reservations.

8. Movies Under The Stars

Sky Princess offers entertainment options for a wide variety of ages and interests, including live music, karaoke, trivia, musical production shows, enrichment talks, spa seminars, and a myriad of games and programs in the Princess Live! Lounge. The cruise line also features Camp Discovery Youth Center programs for kids and teens, making Princess Cruises an excellent choice for multigenerational family groups.

One of our favorite activities was enjoying Movies Under the Stars on the ship’s massive outdoor LED screen. Watching Top Gun: Maverick under a full moon was one of our cruise highlights, and snacking on complimentary popcorn made the experience even more fun.

Pro Tip: Movie schedules are available in Princess Patter daily newsletter, the MedallionClass app’s JourneyView activities timeline, or on the ship’s interactive touch screen portals.

9. The Sanctuary

This quiet adults-only retreat was another of my favorite spaces on Sky Princess, and it’s a lovely place to enjoy panoramic ocean views. The Sanctuary offers guests an exclusive spa-like setting complete with plush loungers, a hot tub, specialty beverages, light meals, and even afternoon tea. The Sanctuary’s Serenity Stewards provide attentive service for guests throughout their visit.

The Sanctuary is adjacent to the two-level adults-only Retreat Pool area on Sky Princess, providing convenient access to its pool and hot tubs. There’s an extra charge to access The Sanctuary, and I thought the experience was well worth the cost. Guests can reserve loungers for $20 for a half-day or $40 for the full day, and more expensive private cabanas are also available.

Pro Tip: Reservations for The Sanctuary can only be made onboard the ship. Advance booking is essential, and it’s best to purchase your passes on embarkation day. Guests can also book alfresco massages in The Sanctuary through the Lotus Spa.

We spent a week exploring tropical ports and enjoying adventures and activities in the Western Caribbean. Sky Princess has a capacity for 3,660 passengers. Although we had nearly that amount on our cruise, the ship never felt crowded. Our Caribbean sailing was a relaxing vacation experience, and we returned home with fabulous memories of our adventures and time together.

If taking to the high seas on an amazing cruise is in your future, you’ll want to take some time to consider all of the pros and cons of this popular vacation idea. From the length of the cruise to the location, from the price to the accommodations, picking out the perfect cruise can be tricky. And once you do, of course, there’s always the chance that you’ll fall into the same trap that any vacationer might fall into — you’ve forgotten something or you’ve packed several items you just don’t need.

We talked to a couple of experts — Ryan Baird — a cruise director for Royal Caribbean — and Princess Cruises Spokesperson Jill Whelan (you may remember her from the tv show The Love Boat) — about the things people are most likely to forget to take on a cruise and things they should leave at home. 

What People Forget To Pack

Nikon Trailblazer ATB Waterproof 10 x 25 Binoculars

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1. Binoculars

Here’s something both of our experts didn’t hesitate to list — and it’s easy to understand why! “A good pair of binoculars, whether stargazing from your balcony, searching for sea life on sea days or when you’re in port, it’s great to see the beautiful sight close-up,” said Whelan.

“Binoculars may not be at the top of your list, but they should be,” added Baird. “Cruise ships are massive — so much so that one tends to lose scope of scale. For example, a brown bear along the banks in Glacier Bay, Alaska, might look like a tiny rock from the ship! Guests that have binoculars will see more wildlife onboard. Binoculars are a must-have item on all my ships.”

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2. Spare Clothes And Toiletries

File this suggestion in the “didn’t think of that” file. Be prepared for the unexpected! “Lost or late luggage, let’s face it — it happens. All too often, I see guests join the ship without baggage,” said Baird. “Imagine how uncomfortable that would be. Now imagine how uncomfortable that would be if you didn’t pack a set of spare clothes, toiletries, or undergarments in your carry-on bag.”

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3. Magnets

Are you someone who likes to stay organized, even on vacation? Then this is a tip you’ll want to note. “This is my absolute favorite, boy-oh-boy-I-wish-I-had-thought-of-it tip… magnets!” said Whelan. “What? Why? Who even has those anymore? Trust me, I learned it from the most traveled cruiser I know and it’s been a must-pack ever since: If you didn’t already know, the walls of cruise ships are magnetized so it’s a great way to keep things organized. Like what, you ask? The Princess Patter, which is a daily newsletter of events and pertinent info on board Princess Cruise lines, excursion tickets, spa reservations… this makes sure you don’t lose them and can find them easily.”

4. Small Bills

As someone who rarely carries cash, this is a tip that hits close to home. Not only should you carry cash, but carry small bills for lots of good reasons. “I know this seems odd, but go with me here. Most guests travel with cash but rarely with small increments. Here are some reasons you may find yourself wanting smaller bills,” said Baird. “Tipping onboard, tipping tour operators, buying cheap souvenirs ashore, using USD in foreign countries (change may not be in USD). I was recently cruise director on a ship that sailed up the Amazon River. Dollar bills went far in this part of the world. Nearly every guest was lined up at guest relations asking for smaller bills — our ship ran out.”

5. Medication

This one may seem like a no-brainer, but as someone who has been on a trip where something has been left behind, trust me — heed the advice of our expert here. “If you forget your medication, your cruise vacation could be over before it even begins,” said Baird. “I recently witnessed this on one of my ships. We headed out of Fort Lauderdale through the Panama Canal to San Diago. A guest had forgotten his medication and was going to be disembarked. Luckily for the guest, our doctors had his particular medicines available in our pharmacy.”

6. Gadgets

This is a fantastic tip — go through your day mentally and write down everything you use and need. You’ll be glad you did. “We have so many gadgets these days, phones, tablets, portable speakers,” said Whelan. “If you’re a woman, extend that list by a million! Curling irons, flat irons, and on and on. I learned early on that a good power strip can make your life so much easier and it takes up virtually no space.”

Editor’s Note: While Whelan likes packing a power strip, you might decide to streamline your packing list and leave it at home. Read on to see why another expert’s advice landed power strips on the no-pack list.

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7. Charging Cables

Here’s another one that might seem obvious, but let’s not pretend we all haven’t forgotten to pack a charger at some point. “It’s 2023, and for better or worse, electronic devices are part of our daily lives,” said Baird. “We use charging cables for phones, cameras, video cameras, tablets, and electronic readers — the list is endless. Cruise ships can’t accommodate spare chargers for all the different devices these days.”

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8. Romantic Lighting

Looking to bring some additional romance to an already romantic vacation? This tip is for you! “For me, there is nothing more alluring than the ocean,” said Whelan. “The sound of the waves, the smell of the salty sea air, the endless horizon… it’s a recipe for romance. On our first vacation since our honeymoon, my husband packed battery-operated fairy lights and battery-operated candles (no real candles allowed on a cruise). It turned our room into a magical place!”

What You Should Leave At Home

1. Alcohol

Here’s one more item that would have never crossed my mind to bring on a cruise. This is one thing we all know is readily available on a cruise, right? “The number one item I recommend not bringing on your cruise vacation is alcohol,” said Baird. “I’m all about weight when packing and glass bottles filled with liquids hardly seem worth the effort considering cruise ships offer everything under the sun regarding bar needs. Some cruise companies will confiscate hard alcohol for the duration of your cruise. Some cruise lines will allow bottles of wine onboard, but usually with a corkage fee. It’s best to leave the alcohol at home and enjoy your itinerary and the region’s local flavors.” Leave it behind — you’ll be covered!

2. Power Strips

This is truly an insider tip! Chargers: Yes. Power strips? No! “With all the electronic gadgets, power outlets are in high demand — especially on cruise ships,” said Baird. “Bringing a power strip to charge multiple devices simultaneously may be tempting, but it’s not a good idea, and here’s why: The power generated on ships is different from land-based power. If you bring a power strip from home, it might be confiscated by security for inspection. Most cruise ships will provide a safe power strip onboard — ask guest relations for one when you join.”

3. Electric Kettles

To be honest, this is not something that would have been on my list. However, our experts have seen things and they know things! “Ah, the saga of the electric kettle. Again, another item best left at home,” said Baird. “Firstly, anything you would use an electric kettle for is free on cruise ships — dining rooms, cafés, in-room dining, and hot water is available 24 hours a day. Secondly, security might confiscate kettles — or at the very least, inspect them to ensure they meet onboard power restrictions.”

4. Tuxedos 

There’s one last thing our experts recommend you leave behind — no matter how great you think you look. “In the spirit of Bob Dylan, ‘The times, they are a-changin’. This is my husband’s favorite evolution — the evening dress code is much more ‘cocktail’ than uber formal,” said Whelan. “But if you love to rock a gown or penguin suit, you do you, and make sure to have a portrait taken — it’s a beautiful memento to remember your cruise, I have so many fun ones marking some of my most precious memories. Happy cruising!”

5. Beach Towels

It’s easy to see why you think you should pack beach towels for your cruise, but fear not — your hosts likely have you covered. “Swimming and cruising go hand-in-hand, but that doesn’t mean you should pack a beach towel,” said Baird. “To maximize space in your luggage, leave the towel at home. Nearly all cruise ships offer towels poolside onboard and provide beach towels when going ashore — making the beach towel one less thing to worry about on your vacation.”

6. Hair Dryer

While it’s tempting to bring along every convenience you can think of, some items just need to be left off of your packing list. Included in this category is your beloved hair dryer. “Your room already has one,” said Whelan. Simple enough — leave this behind.

7. Robe And Slippers

We all have our comfort clothes — especially when it comes to getting comfortable after a long day. Fight that urge — don’t pack that robe. “The ones on board (at least on Princess) are great!” said Whelan. One less thing — scratch this off of your packing list.

Another item on the list of things we all love — especially our own — is slippers. But this is another thing that just isn’t necessary to bring with you. “Princess has those, too!” said Whelan. This is a particularly good tip — trust the experts!

8. Shampoo, Conditioner, And Soap

We all have our favorite shampoo and soap — we all just need to get over that when going out on a cruise. These items could leak, get heavy, and take up space. “We’ll make this easy for you — leave them at home,” said Baird. “Most cruise ships provide these essentials in your stateroom. Again, one less thing you have to pack.”

Pro Tip: There’s not much to add to these insights from our experts, but there’s one thing you must do on any trip — particularly a cruise where you can’t just head out to shop — make a list! Keep a written list that you can check off as you go, or use an app on your phone to make a list of what you have to take and check things off as you go. Make a note of everything you touch or do on a given day and consider adding that to your list — you won’t regret it.

Ready to find that perfect cruise? Go ahead and take the plunge!

For more information on cruises and sailing, check out these articles:

• 15 Reasons River Cruises Are Perfect For Retirees
• 7 Essentials To Maximize Space In A Cruise Cabin, As Told By Experts
• 11 Things I Couldn’t Live Without On My Mediterranean Cruise, Plus 5 I Didn’t Need

I never get to spend enough time with my grandchildren. They’re getting older now, and very involved in their own activities. So when my daughter told me she’d booked a cruise on Royal Caribbean with them for the holidays, my husband and I offered to come along. 

No matter which Royal Caribbean ship you cruise on — they have 20+ ships in their fleet, from smaller boats with fewer decks to 5,000-passenger Oasis-class ships — what you can count on is outstanding live shows and entertainment, flexible dining options, family-friendly cabin design, and a Kids Club for those 6 months to 17 years old. These are just some of the perks that make cruising with Royal Caribbean an ideal multi-gen vacation, especially for seniors. 

For us, Royal Caribbean’s Allure Of The Seas provided the perfect backdrop to create lasting memories. I looked at the pictures of the ship out of Galveston, Texas, and knew it would be an over-the-top experience. The departure port and parking were convenient, so I embarked on the ship along with my daughter and her husband, plus their four children. 

The cruise was fabulous, and we made so many wonderful memories together. Here are my key tips if you cruise on Royal Caribbean with your grandchildren.

Note: I was a guest of Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, but my opinions are my own. 

1. Download The Royal Caribbean App As Soon As Possible

The Royal Caribbean International app allows you to do so many things, like plan your port excursions ahead of time or reserve activities like cupcake decorating or sushi-making classes — such fun things to do together. Many fill up and are sold out, so download the app, ASAP. You can also make show and dining reservations and buy beverage and internet packages. The best part is you can actually plan each day of your cruise before you even set sail.

Set Up Your Onboard Chats

If you’re cruising with extended family or friends, your most important communication is with them. “Where are you? What time are we going to dinner? are destined to be your most common queries. The app allows you to set up a chat with the members of your group by connecting to the free Wi-Fi. 

You’ll see three dots in the top right. Open it and invite members of your party to join the chat. Once they accept your invitation to connect, you’re free to message them with pertinent details. It took me 2 days to figure this out.

2. Study The List Of Shows And Events

Mamma Mia!, Hairspray, and Grease are just a few of the popular onboard musicals offered by Royal Caribbean, and they’re all family-friendly. Make sure you make your reservations on your app as soon as you can, as the shows tend to fill up. 

We loved the performance of Mamma Mia! and sang all of the songs together. The Ice Games show was spectacular, as well, keeping everyone mesmerized with skating skills, flips, and athletic prowess.

My granddaughter Riley really wanted to go to the ’70s party on the promenade. We joined hundreds of other disco lovers as we danced late into the night. Another evening, she wanted to do the HUSH Silent Party. She knew what it was. I had no idea. You put on headphones and tune into the same DJ spinning the songs. There’s no loud music to talk over and we had an awesome time belting out our favorite songs. 

Karaoke and a Family Feud–style game also let us create great memories together. Ditto for the carousel and mini-golf on the Boardwalk.

What to take a spin on the ice yourself? Don your skates and off you go on the ice skating rink, available on all Voyager, Freedom and Oasis-class ships. If you dare, zipline across the ship or take the challenge on the rock climbing wall (found on Oasis-class ships); if not, watch your grandkids do it with ease. And for something a little tamer, ride the carousel at sea (found on Oasis-class ships) or try the bumper cars (found on Quantum-class ships).

3. Creatively Shout Out Your Family Name

It was very cute to see three and four generations of families all wearing the same T-shirts, hoodies, or pajamas on board. I wished I had thought of that.

4. Try New Things

This is your chance to be open to new experiences. When you go off on your shore excursions, take a moment to talk with the locals and ask them about their lives. Expose your grandchildren to different cultures, and give them a chance to broaden their understanding of a world very different from their own.

Even if you don’t choose an excursion, get off the boat and walk around the port. Taste a new fruit at a stand. Check out the local snacks, chips, and candies. You may acquire some new favorites. Buy some souvenirs that will provide a lasting memento of your adventures.

I brought my granddaughter to the Art Auction, and she learned about artists Marc Chagall, Pablo Picasso, and Peter Max. I think this is just the kind of thing that will stay with her.

5. Check Out The Adventure Ocean Kids’ Club

There are times when you all need a little downtime, and Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Kids Club is just the thing — plus it’s complimentary. 

The clubs are divided into age groups, and trained professionals work with the kids. Aquanauts is for kids 3–5 where my grandson Blake had a ball singing, creating arts and crafts, and playing games with the others. Explorers is for children 6–8 and my other grandson, Rory, was happy to do science projects, talent shows, and ice cream parties. For tweens 9–12, my granddaughter Bella did karaoke, played video games, and went on backstage tours. I saw teens playing in basketball tournaments, enjoying FlowRider surf simulators, and ziplining over the boat. My granddaughter Riley was happy to hang out in the teen lounge with her other friends. 

Note that the hours vary from sea days to port days. Extended babysitting hours are also available for a fee. All ships (besides the Adventure of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, and Jewel of the Seas) include nurseries for the littlest ones.

Pro Tip: Be sure to register your children on embarkation day. My daughter also signed a waiver so that both my husband and I could pick up the kids.

6. When In Port, Stay On Ship Time

Some of the ports we visited were in a different time zone, either an hour ahead or behind. Your best bet is to keep your watch on ship time so you don’t miss the boat when your ship is ready to depart. This is especially important if you’re on an excursion not sanctioned by the cruise line.

Pro Tip: Port days have different dining room schedules than sea days. Be sure to check the daily Cruise Compass to confirm their hours.

7. Explore All Onboard Dining Options 

The great thing about Royal Caribbean is that they offer so many places to eat, from epicurean culinary adventures to something quick and easy at the Windjammer Buffet. 

Kids love Johnny Rockets (an upcharge), but there are other specialty restaurants on Royal Caribbean ships. Oasis-class ships have Boardwalk Hot Dogs and The Donut Shop in their Boardwalk neighborhoods, and most ships have Sorrento’s pizza, Cafe Promenade, and soft-serve ice cream stations that are included with your cruise. 

If you’re looking for a quieter place to eat on an Oasis-class ship, head to the Park Café located in Central Park. They offer soup, salads, and sandwiches, along with great desserts. Once I discovered it, we had lunch there every day. I particularly enjoyed the make-your-own salad bar and prime rib sandwiches. 

The same is true with the Solarium (found on every Royal Caribbean ship) for breakfast. They offer the same delicious hot and cold buffet as the Windjammer, but it’s much smaller and easier to find your group or to find a place for your group.

8. Bring That Hawaiian Shirt

We were hesitant about packing one of those colorful Hawaiian shirts, but my husband was glad he did. He wore it several times, especially at Caribbean night.

9. Take Your Formal Pictures Before Your Last Night

We had planned to take cruise pictures on the last night, but there were no formal photography services or backdrops available. So we ran around the ship in our jeans with matching-colored t-shirts and found some cute spots to take our own.

10. Take Shore Excursions

Part of the joy of cruising is having new experiences in port that range from exotic beaches, ATV adventures, cultural experiences, and outdoor recreation. Before you decide which excursions to book, talk to your grandkids about what interests them, and go from there. 

Royal Caribbean offers an amazing collection of remarkable shore excursions on the island of Barbados: you can swim with the turtles, and observe sea turtles in their natural habitat. Hike through the rainforest and go tubing in an underground cave system in Belize. Visit the Chacchoben Ruins in Costa Maya. Your grandkids will love to swim with the stingrays in the shallow sandbars of Grand Cayman. Sailing with Royal Caribbean to the Bahamas means a stop at CocoCay, their own private island with access to a beautiful beach, food, drinks, and more. 

The Allure stopped in British Honduras as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. Snorkeling, diving, and visiting Gumbalimba Park to hang out with monkeys and parrots was the highlight of Roatan, Honduras. Costa Maya is a little more laid back, and we went ashore to buy some of the artisan crafts. In Cozumel, we visited a chocolate factory to watch the manufacturing process. Of course, we got to sample the delicious chocolate and bring a few bars home.

All too soon it was time to return and go ashore in Galveston, but we were filled with memories of quality family time we spent together and adventures we would never forget aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure.

Pro Tip: If disabilities are an issue for you or your party, not to worry. There were plenty of people aboard enjoying the cruise in walkers, wheelchairs, and motorized vehicles.

Being an experienced cruise lover, I was thrilled to be invited and hosted by Viking River Cruises to experience the Paris & the Heart of Normandy sailing. This was a special route for me as both of my grandfathers landed in Normandy during World War II. I had dreamed about visiting for most of my life. I also knew Viking Cruises would do an exceptional job showcasing the area, as I am a repeat cruiser with them. Here is what I loved about experiencing France with Viking River Cruises.

1. A Fantastic Paris To Normandy Itinerary

When picking out cruise itineraries, finding places near and dear to your heart and spending your money toward that goal is essential. As mentioned above, this itinerary caught my attention. Our cruise started in Paris, with an overnight and 2 days of sightseeing.

We visited smaller, lesser-known towns that kept us out of heavy-traffic areas. This also brought us to interesting ports of call.

Besides Paris, we visited the towns of La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Rouen (with overnights), Normandy beaches, Les Pecq, and Les Andelys along the Seine River.

Scenic cruising is also a big part of European river cruising. We cruised by several places that were perfect for sightseeing from our small Viking Fjorgyn verandas.

2. French History

I love any reason to learn things that help me answer Jeopardy questions. How about you? I learned a lot about French culture, history, and, most definitely, its famous artists on my Paris & the Heart of Normandy sailing.

In Les Andelys, a charming old Norman village, were the ruins of King Richard the Lion Heart’s 12th-century fortress, Chateau Gaillard, perched atop a majestic hill. Rouen offered a picturesque cathedral painted more than 30 times by Claude Monet.

I was most surprised that we went to and toured Vincent van Gogh’s last residence and burial site in Auvers-Sur-Oise. This site is a pilgrimage for art enthusiasts and has a picturesque setting. Van Gogh is buried alongside his brother, Theo.

Fun Fact: Though we didn’t stop in Giverny, France, because there is no safe place to pull over for a better view, we did see Claude Monet’s famous gardens and home of 40 years.

3. Paris Food Tour

I’ve taken my share of food tours worldwide, but having a Paris food tour offering on Viking River Cruises was a no-brainer. Our small group roamed the city on foot and by Paris Metro to taste our way through five or six local hotspots.

At one place, we sampled olive oils, vinegar, and honey. We had a trio of desserts at another spot with French coffee and hot tea. The stop I liked best was at a brewery for a cheese plate and glass of wine. Take advantage of this tour.

4. Included Excursions

A key difference between river cruising versus ocean cruising is that there are “included” excursions, meaning you don’t pay extra to do these things. Each day, Viking offers tours at each port of call.

Excursions may run 2–3 hours, or even longer, such as going to the beaches and cemetery in Normandy, which requires several hours each way on a bus. Buses are included when necessary because of distance or accessibility.

Viking Cruises does a stellar job of vetting its tour guides. Hence, they are easy to understand, are entertaining, and have control of their groups.

There are paid excursions available each day, something to consider depending on your interests.

Pro Tip: Viking uses the word “leisure” for walks or excursions that are slower-paced and easier for those with mobility issues, though they are open to anyone.

5. Views Of The Eiffel Tower At Night

Our cruise officially “embarked” at 3 p.m. but docked overnight so guests could explore Paris independently. I liked that. Many went off to see shows or have dinner at fancy Parisian restaurants; while others, myself included, hung out on the Viking Fjorgyn and got to know the people we would be spending the week with.

From the comfort of our stateroom veranda, the lounge, or the top observation deck, we could see the Eiffel Tower right down from where we were docked. From here, we could enjoy the evening twinkling light show with no stress of fighting the crowds, or even being dressed for that matter.

Our Viking Fjorgyn ship was docked in a thriving part of Paris where something was going on at all hours, though not loud and boisterous. It is a good location for sightseeing and souvenir shopping, but keep your belongings close to your body at all times.

6. Guided Normandy Experience

Normandy is 3 hours from Paris, or 90–120 minutes from Rouen, where we docked to see half of the Paris to Normandy itinerary stops. I was familiar with and loved the neighboring Brittany region of France.

Our day at the Normandy beaches involved a long bus ride, but it was worth it! First up was a stop at the Mémorial Caen Museum, which tells the story of World War II. It has a noteworthy gift shop as well. If you are looking for souvenirs, buy them here.

Included with our Viking River Cruise was lunch at the museum. Our group had a separate dining area with a tasty plated meal, wine, and dessert. I had seen the roped-off area during museum free time and commented on how fancy and nice it looked. Imagine my surprise when they corralled us into the space. I thought this was a very special touch to our long day.

Next, we headed to the Normandy American Cemetery for a somber presentation and dedication to the military on our sailing. It was a charming special touch when our tour guide arranged for a floral display to be placed at the base of the Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves bronze statue.

Lastly, we arrived at the Omaha Beach location, famed for D-Day arrivals and many casualties. There was time to walk around, take pictures and videos, pay tribute to our loved ones and fallen soldiers, and reflect on the importance of this location. 

Tissues are recommended.

Pro Tip: This is American property. Our guide encouraged us to take home souvenir sand if we wanted. Luckily, I brought an empty water bottle for this reason. You may want to, too.

7. French-Themed Dinner

Hold on to your hats for the French food extravaganza buffet night; it is sensational in every way. Have your cameras ready, because everything here is photo-worthy.

As the guests entered the dining room, you could hear the “oohs” and “aahs” escaping every mouth. Table after table was eloquently dressed and loaded with fancy plates and boards of food that were specific to the region. 

Besides the gourmet cheese boards, spread of salads, and charcuterie, there were also glasses of wine and champagne. The staff blended well with their striped shirts, berets, and stylish threads that were so chic and “gay Paris.” This is one lively event.

Even as a foodie, there were many things I was not familiar with on the buffet line and tables. This is your perfect opportunity to try it all; the food was well labeled and Viking is particular about food allergies. Don’t skip the duck pâte — it was some of the best I’ve ever had.

You’ll be dreaming of the delicious mini-desserts, as well. The French-themed buffet was my favorite dinner night on the ship.

For more on Viking Cruises, check out these articles:

• Viking Cruise Line Secrets No One Tells You
• 6 Fascinating Facts About Viking’s New Expedition Ship Octantis
• 6 Fabulous Shore Excursions On A Viking Rhine River Cruise

Starting in January and running through March, cruise lines offer special Wave Season deals to fill their ships early on, for the coming season. When you book during Wave Season, you will find the best prices and perks, such as onboard credits, drink packages, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and upgrades. 

In our experience, now is truly the best time to book your cruise. You may still find deals as the season progresses, but don’t count on it, since cruising is back in full force and the newest ships and best destinations usually fill up fast. 

For the best experience, you want to book far in advance since airlines are still struggling (look at what happened with Southwest over Christmas) to have their fleets back in the air, due to shortages from ground crews to pilots, which in turn has driven airfares to new heights. If you see a deal you like, book it. You usually only pay a small deposit, often refundable, to reserve that great promotion. If you hesitate to book by a day or even a few hours, it may be too late.

So let’s dive into the top four cruise line deals we’ve found for wave season.

Wave Season Deals 

1. Virgin Voyages

New to the industry, Virgin Voyages offers a unique sailing experience geared toward younger, more adventurous cruisers. They are also geared towards adults only who are above the age of 18.

Special offers:

• 60 percent off the second guest + up to $600 in free drinks
• Offer expires January 31, 2023

2. Viking Cruises

Viking is offering deals on both their ocean and river cruises.

Ocean Cruises:

2023

• Free airfare
• Eastern seaboard explorer
• Offer expires: January 31, 2023

2024-2025

• Airfares vary on other gateways and departures
• Offer expires: January 31, 2023

River Cruises:

2023

• Free airfare
• Departures included: Grand European tour, European Sojourn, Capitals of Eastern Europe, Lyon, Provence, and the Rhineland 
• Offer expires: January 31, 2023

2024-2025

• Airfares vary on other gateways and departures
• Offer expires: January 31, 2023

3. Celebrity Cruises

One of the “new luxury” lines you will want to go on is Celebrity, offering upscale accommodations, dining, and service that’s unsurpassed.

• Up to 75 percent off the second guest + up to $800 in savings + up to $800 onboard spending
• Offer expires: March 1, 2023 

4. Princess Cruises

The best sale ever is back and even better this year.

• Save up to 35 percent on cruise fares
• Get up to $150 per guest to spend on board
• Reserve now with only a $100 deposit (one per guest)
• Offer expires: March 1, 2023 

All of these deals are subject to availability and are subject to change. Since new deals are always being added, you can visit our website for the latest deals.

Popular Cruise Destinations

Now that you’ve seen the deals, we want to share with you some of our recommended destinations for this year’s wave season and what you need to know before you book.

Caribbean

When booking during Wave Season, there are things you should be aware of. If you’re booking a cruise to the Caribbean, the hurricane season runs from June until November with the highest risk from mid-August to October. The good news is that ships can be rerouted to avoid storms and rough seas. During the high season from June until August, when school is out, this will be the most expensive and crowded, but for families, it may be the only choice. Christmas is also busy and expensive for the same reasons.

Alaska

Alaska is incredibly popular. However, there is limited inventory due to the popularity and short booking season, from the end of May until September. Ships fill up quickly. This is definitely a bucket list cruise. 

Europe

The Mediterranean, including Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece is one of the most popular cruise destinations. Europe offers many options but can be a bit more expensive due to higher airline prices and exchange rates. Booking a European cruise during wave season is a way to save money. Most itineraries to these destinations range from 7 to 11 days. 

The Scandinavian countries are becoming popular while Great Britain and Ireland are always good choices. 

Expedition Cruises

Somewhat new to the market, expedition-based itineraries to Antarctica are popular with small-group itineraries. 

Off The Beaten Path Destinations

There are not many places you can’t explore on a cruise, especially when combined with a land package. You can explore far-flung destinations like Japan, Tahiti, Galapagos Islands, and even Trans-Atlantic sailings. A couple of under-the-radar destinations you should consider are Iceland and Costa Rica, these destinations are drawing interest from cruisers looking for more off-beat locations.

River Cruises 

For river cruising, there are not as many cruise lines to choose from and most river cruise lines are considered luxury with 4- and 5-star accommodations and itineraries. AMA Waterways, Avalon, and Viking are three of the top lines. Destinations on the Danube and Rhine Rivers include itineraries through Hungary, Germany, Austria, Belgium, and The Netherlands. In France, the Seine and Rhone Rivers have itineraries through Bordeaux and Provence. The Christmas market itineraries are some of the most popular. 

River cruises are different from ocean cruises in many aspects, mostly being up close and personal with the locals, if It’s a more intimate experience. You can always see the other side of the river and you spend much of the time on land in many beautiful, culturally rich cities, full of history. Average river cruise itineraries usually run 7 to 14 days depending on the destination. There are also river cruises on the rivers through Egypt, Vietnam, and Cambodia for the more adventurous. 

How To Book

Booking Online

Be aware that booking your cruise on an internet site or directly with a cruise line does not guarantee you a better price or the best deal. There are so many variables to choose from when booking a cruise, from cabin locations, dining times, shore excursions, flights, etc. Trying to book a cruise on your own on the internet can be confusing, takes hours, and you probably won’t save money doing it. There will be some deals on websites but you will be on your own should something go wrong.

Travel Advisor

When you book with an experienced travel advisor, you call them directly and usually speak to the same person who has helped and guided you along in the process, compared to being on hold for hours to get through to a customer service department or call center, speaking with someone you don’t know and doesn’t know you. Travel agents usually do not charge fees for their services (they’re paid by the supplier) and some even offer extra perks, like onboard credits. These are a bonus when you book with them. A travel advisor’s experience, knowledge, and deals with their preferred suppliers provide an invaluable service to their clients.

They say everything’s bigger in Texas. That now includes cruises. 

Royal Caribbean has opened a brand-new cruise facility in Galveston, Texas, and it recently moved one of the world’s largest vessels to the port. 

I headed to Royal Caribbean’s new $125 million, 160,000-square-foot facility to cruise on the massive ship. Allure of the Seas, which carries 6,700 passengers at maximum occupancy, once held the title of being the largest cruise ship in the world. (It sits in the fifth spot as I write this, though, as Royal Caribbean has continued to build ever-larger ships with its new launches in the years since Allure of the Seas first hit the oceans in 2010.) 

On my hosted trip, Royal Caribbean was celebrating placing this vibrant vessel in its new homeport. I was joined by my friend Kevin, and this cruise was particularly interesting for me because I got to see a mass-market cruise on one of the big ships through the eyes of a newbie. You see, this was Kevin’s very first cruise. I, on the other hand, have been on more than 100 sailings. 

Having his perspective was incredibly refreshing because I have found myself becoming a little set in my routine while on my voyages, taking much of the joy of cruising for granted. 

For this trip, we dove into all that these big and feature-packed ships have to offer, revisiting a lot of the experiences that I probably wouldn’t have on my typical cruise these days. It was all exciting and new to Kevin, and it was a joy to see him marvel at discovering a new venue, activity, or design detail at every turn. 

We definitely kept busy trying as much as we could during our 4 days onboard. 

Here is what I rediscovered about cruising while sailing on Allure of the Seas. 

1. You Have Food Choices Galore 

The bigger cruise ships feature tons of spaces and activities. The idea is to ensure that a diverse group of passengers can always find something to do. The program will keep them entertained and well fed — two essentials on a good cruise vacation. 

Allure of the Seas takes that concept and cranks it up to 11. First, the food.

The ship offers a gut-busting array of food options with its restaurants and eateries. Allure of the Seas offers a steakhouse (Chops Grille), Mexican eateries (Sabor and Loco Fresh), Italian (Giovanni’s), pizza (Sorrento’s), hot dogs (Boardwalk Dog House), cafeteria-style eateries (Cafe Promenade and Park Cafe), Brazilian (Samba Grill), sushi, sashimi, and hibachi (Izumi), tapas (Vintages wine bar), tasting menu dinners (150 Central Park), four main dining rooms, a diverse buffet, and a Johnny Rockets diner. And ice cream and doughnut shops. 

Okay, so that covers the food and desserts. Most eateries are included in your cruise fare, and some are added-fee restaurants (more on those later). We were definitely well fed during our trip. Kevin and I booked specialty dining (added fee) at 150 Central Park and Giovanni’s. 

Plus, we had a nice dinner with new friends at American Icon Grill and made frequent stops to pick up a slice of pizza at Sorrento’s or cookies and other treats at Cafe Promenade. We also enjoyed one fast-casual dinner of burgers, fries, onion rings, and shakes while sitting outside on the bustling boardwalk at Johnny Rockets. 

2. There Is Something For Everyone 

Allure of the Seas is loaded with a dizzying number of activities and entertainment options to fill up your daily schedule. 

The daily program offers things like trivia competitions, a Puzzle Break (like an escape room experience), theater shows, a Battle of the Sexes game show, comedy acts, and a range of fun attractions around the ship, such as sports courts (for basketball, soccer, and pickleball), miniature golf, ziplining, surfing and wakeboarding, and rock climbing. 

We joined a few trivia sessions and even won once to claim the highly sought-after prize of luggage tags. (I think having bragging rights is even more important to most cruisers.) 

Amber Theater is the main show venue, and the headliner was Mamma Mia, the smash Broadway musical. We also made it to the ship’s dedicated comedy club, Comedy Live, to watch a pair of comedians at the late-night show. 

Of course, there is always live music at the bars and lounges during the afternoons and evenings. The British pub, Bow and Stern, featured a guitar player, and the Royal Promenade had a country music trio. Live music also can be found at the pool decks (we had a DJ and a steel drum band) and at Central Park, Boleros (which features a salsa band), Dazzles, and the Schooner Bar (which has a piano singer), among others. There is also a dedicated jazz club, Jazz on 4.

We were able to sprinkle in only a few of these experiences on our sailing. But that’s the thing with these huge ships. The cruise lines aim to entice cruisers to come back again and again. The idea is that you’ll never be bored or run out of choices of fun things to keep you occupied. 

3. You Can’t Do Everything 

This was definitely the case on our cruise. We passed on plenty of stuff on the schedule but still found plenty to keep our schedules filled with great activities. We took a turn ziplining across the ship — soaring over the boardwalk from the very top of the ship — and we squared off for nine holes of mini golf. Kevin enjoys gambling a bit, so he was happy to learn that the ship has a huge casino. We spent a few sessions in front of the slot machines at Casino Royale, and he even won a little extra money by the end of the cruise. 

The ship also has an ice skating rink! It’s in Studio B down on Deck 4, and passengers can enjoy open skating sessions. We didn’t skate, ourselves, but we went to the dynamic “Ice Games” skating show that features a cast playing out a storyline to upbeat pop music. 

We also grabbed a seat at the large Aqua Theater located at the very back of the ship. This venue is at the end of the boardwalk and it is home to the OceanAria aqua show in the evenings. This show combines incredible acrobatics, dives from high platforms into the small pool, music, light, and comedic elements to create a high-energy spectacle under the stars. 

As you can see, the ship has earned a reputation as an attraction itself, and many cruisers even choose to stay on board instead of visiting the ports during many of the port stops. 

4. Allure Of The Seas Is Perfect For Friends And Family 

This huge ship is ideal for multigenerational families as well as larger groups of people who want to get together for a getaway vacation or special occasion. With all of the restaurants and a daily program packed with all sorts of entertainment offerings and fun activities, people of all ages and interests can easily find something to do. 

Grandparents will love this ship, for example, because they can take their grandkids on a cruise vacation without having to worry about not being able to keep the teens or children happy. Allure of the Seas features a complimentary Adventure Ocean program with specially trained counselors who take care of junior cruisers (segmenting them by age groups 3–5, 6–8, 9–12, and teens and tweens). 

These young cruisers get their own programming and facilities, so they can hang out together, make new friends, play video games, participate in sports, and even eat together. The teens can hang out at The Living Room, Fuel Teen Club, and at an arcade to enjoy games, dance parties, and movie nights. 

5. A Lot Is Included In Your Fare 

Cruising is popular for many reasons, and one of the main benefits is that so much is included in the base fare. 

The comedy shows, live music, and Mamma Mia, for example, all are included. You also get meals at most of the restaurants and some non-alcoholic drinks, like water, iced tea, juices, coffees, and teas. Also complimentary: the kids clubs and all of the fun activities (like the FlowRider surf simulator, zipline, and rock climbing) as well as the pool areas, loungers, and hot tubs. 

The ship also has a massive fitness center featuring all the accessories and equipment you might expect at a high-end health club on land. It also has the best jogging track at sea, a half-mile, enclosed two-lane track on Deck 5 that encircles the ship. It’s covered to protect you from the sun, but it also has openings that bring in fresh air and views from the ocean. 

6. Extras Can Add Up Quickly 

Specialty dining comes with added costs, like cover charges or a la carte pricing. These premium restaurants on Allure of the Seas include Chops Grille, Sabor, Izumi, 150 Central Park, Giovanni’s Table, and Johnny Rockets. You also will pay extra for sodas and alcohol. The ship also has a Starbucks and ice cream shop that cost extra. 

Allure of the Seas offers a nice spa and thermal suite, so you can treat yourself to massages and other treatments at an extra fee. Plus, there are a number of boutiques and other shops onboard selling souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and more. 

The casino, of course, can quickly drain your bank account, too, if you’re not careful. Shore excursions also cost north of $100 per person at most destinations. 

Being one of the world’s largest cruise ships, Allure of the Seas allows cruisers a huge amount of flexibility to enjoy their vacations in any way they choose.

I’ve enjoyed a few cruises over the years, all on Royal Caribbean to the Caribbean and Mexico. My husband and I enjoyed the ease of cruising, the great food, and the unique places to explore. We also took our adult daughters with us on a three-night cruise to the Bahamas and they love it and are asking when we can go again. Three nights was not long enough to enjoy all the amenities of the ship.

One of our favorite parts was the off-ship excursions. All cruise lines offer different ports of call. We’ve enjoyed bicycling in Cozumel, snorkeling in St. Martin, and just being beach bums on CocoCay. However, what happens if you miss returning to your ship while you’re out exploring? Buck Banks from NewmanPR represents Holland America and Costa Cruises and shares a few things to know.

1. Set Your Watch To Ship Time 

This sounds simple enough but it can make a huge difference in making it back in time. Banks suggests setting your watch to the ship’s time, not local time. Ship time does depend on a few factors.

Transatlantic Cruise

If you’re taking a transatlantic cruise, you would cross three time zones. Banks says since it’s a one-way trip, the captain would change ship time to match the time zone, so when they arrive, they are in the correct time and time zone.

Caribbean Cruise

A roundtrip sailing in the Caribbean might be a little trickier. You can experience up to three time zones. Banks says the captain will likely keep the ship’s time the same as the time zone of departure and not change it with each time zone. Now, you can run into a problem when your smart devices automatically change time when you cross zones. Hence, why it is important to note the ship’s time. 

Pro Tip: Banks also adds that it is up to the discretion of the captain to decide what ship’s time is, so it’s always best to check the ship’s clocks or the app.

2. Stick To Cruise Line Excursions

Typically, if you are on a shore excursion sold by the cruise line, the ship will wait for your return. However, if you’re off on your own and lose track of time or get separated from the excursion and miss the last tender to the ship or the departure time, it’s on you to get back to the ship. 

3. Give Yourself Plenty of Time

Banks suggests giving yourself plenty of time to return to the ship. There are a lot of variables to take into consideration. You will want to know the layout of the port in relation to the ship. If you’re far away from the ship enjoying the port, you might need to engage a taxi or catch a tram. Also, some approaches to the ship can involve a long walk on the dock or having to navigate shopping areas that are designed to make you stop and shop. You’ll also want to note the time the last tender is scheduled to depart for the ship. 

4. Keep Port Agent Number Handy

Banks said cruise lines usually provide a phone number for the port agent in each port, either on the excursion ticket, on the daily schedule, or their app. The port agent can assist with the next steps, which depend largely on where the ship is headed. It could be as simple as taking a flight or even a car to the next port of call and rejoining the cruise. However, in this day and age, that could be complicated by COVID-19 or visa entry requirements. 

Pro Tip: Banks said a port agent in Ensenada, Mexico, told him that if you are a U.S. citizen and miss the ship there, they will drive you to the border crossing and from there you are on your own. 

5. You Pick Up The Costs

In any event, if you miss the ship, any lodging or travel costs are on you according to Banks. The cruise line is not responsible, though typically they are accommodating when facilitating guests rejoining their cruise. 

Banks says the best thing to do to enjoy your excursion is to pay attention. Losing track of time could turn a wonderful vacation into a nightmare.

A shorter cruise is a great way to introduce yourself to cruising. Royal Caribbean offers three-night cruises to Ensenada from Los Angeles and several three-night options going to the Bahamas from both Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Disney Cruise Line offers similar routes from both the West Coast, Miami, and Port Canaveral as well as a two-night option from San Diego to Ensenada. Both Norwegian and Carnival offer three-night Bahamian cruises from Miami. Carnival even has a couple of two-night cruises from Miami.

I could go on and list various options for all the cruise lines out there but you get the gist. Short cruises are a thing, so let’s talk about why you’d want to take one.

I’ve been on three three-night cruises and three two-night cruises. I have a four-night cruise coming up, which almost counts, right? Here are what I think are great reasons to get in on those shorter cruises.

I was recently hosted by Royal Caribbean on a media cruise.

1. It’s Your First Time Cruising

Shorter cruises are great options for travelers who are on the fence about cruising. While I think cruises are a great way to vacation, they’re not for everyone. If the idea of being “trapped” on a ship for seven days when you’re not sure if that’s your thing is what’s stopping you from booking a cruise, look at one of the shorter sailings.

If you’re prone to motion sickness and you’re worried about booking a weeklong trip where you’ll be sick, book a shorter cruise. Modern cruise ships have stabilizers and although motion varies by location and is influenced by the weather, most cruise passengers can manage seasickness. During fair weather, most cruises to the Bahamas, and the Caribbean in general, tend to be pretty calm. Open ocean sailing tends to see more rocking and rolling.

2. You Are Traveling With Young Kids

For parents or grandparents taking a child on a cruise for the first time, the idea can sometimes be a little daunting. There seems to be a universal fear among parents of young children that their child is going to fall overboard or try to climb over the railing. While that’s extremely unlikely to happen, it is a valid fear for a parent who has never cruised or has never cruised with a lively child.

Most cruise ships have excellent kid’s programming — and if you have kids, you’ll want to ensure you’re picking a cruise line that caters to families, like Royal Caribbean or Disney. The rails on deck are too high for someone to accidentally fall overboard. If you’re truly worried about a child trying to climb over the railings, it’s easy enough to stay in more enclosed areas and choose a stateroom that offers a portal versus a balcony.

3. You Are Short On Time

One of the things I enjoy most about being a freelancer is that my vacation days are when I say they are. Not true for my husband, though. He gets a certain number of days per year and we have to be strategic about how we use those days. The idea is to enjoy our leisure time and save a few days of his leave time for “just in case” situations.

There are plenty of short cruises that sail over a weekend, which can minimize the number of vacation days you take. If you’ve got school-age kids, short cruises cut down on the number of days of instruction they’ll miss. You might not be able to take a week off but taking three days off is usually considerably less complicated.

4. You Live Close To The Port

If you live close to the port your cruise ship departs from you can save time and money on your cruise travel. One of my hard and fast rules for cruising is to be at the port the day before my ship sails. In most cases, that means a flight and a hotel room but if you live close to the port, you may be able to comfortably arrive at the port on the day of your sailing.

I live about 250 miles from the Port of Galveston, which is roughly a three-and-a-half-hour drive. While my personal preference is to be at the port the day before I sail no matter what, I could set out early in the morning and probably have no trouble making my arrival time. Minimal travel to the port makes it logistically easier to take a shorter cruise.

5. You’re Chasing Cruise Line Status

Whether it is your first cruise or your twentieth cruise, make sure to sign up for the cruise line’s loyalty status when you sign up for a cruise. Each cruise line works this differently, but in general, signing up keeps track of your cruises and you’ll earn points or levels for each cruise or for each night you sail. These benefits add up in various ways, from perks like earlier boarding times to freebies on board to credit toward future cruises. If a cruise line rewards you for the number of cruises taken, taking multiple short cruises or even back-to-back cruises can elevate your status faster. It’s important to weigh the benefits of building your vacation around getting a better status so make sure you look at things from all angles when deciding to take a short cruise solely on getting points or moving up a tier.

6. Be The First To See A New Ship

Disney’s latest ship, the Disney Wish, was met with a lot of excitement and fanfare. It had been many years since a new vessel had joined what had been a four-ship fleet for a very long time and Disney Cruise loyalists wanted to get a look inside at the earliest opportunity. Right now, the Disney Wish is exclusively doing three and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral and these short cruises allow fans of the line to get a look at what’s on board, although the reviews have been rather mixed.

Even for a line that regularly adds new (and usually bigger and more luxuriously appointed) ships, such as Royal Caribbean, frequent customers sometimes want the latest and greatest experience first. I sailed on a special sailing of Royal Caribbean’s newest, largest cruise ship (actually the world’s largest) Wonder of the Seas, and we were ported at Coco Cay, the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas with the Anthem of the Seas. While enjoying the beach, I struck up a conversation with a family who was sailing on Anthem who asked a ton of questions about what the newer, larger Wonder was like, and said that they were going to ask their travel agent to look at cruises on the Wonder of the Seas.

7. Extend A Week Long Vacation

It’s no secret that Orlando is the world’s theme park capital. If you’re traveling with kids or have a multigenerational travel group, big theme parks like Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort have big appeal. However, unless you’re a mega theme park fan, most adults don’t find these types of vacations relaxing.

If the idea of spending three or four days relaxing on a cruise ship after a marathon rope drop to fireworks park days appeals to you, consider combining your theme park trip with a short cruise out of Port Canaveral. Port Canaveral is 45 minutes from Orlando and most major cruise lines offer bus service from Orlando International Airport. Car rentals and rideshare are also options to get from Orlando to Port Canaveral.

8. Splurging Is Easier

If getting one of the larger, more luxurious suites on a cruise ship is a travel goal, it is kinder to your pocketbook to book one for a shorter cruise. Concierge staterooms or suites have more space and come with other amenities such as a private lounge or sundeck access, elevated toiletries and linens, priority boarding, and more.

The price of all cruises increases with the number of nights you sail, so what would be way over budget for a seven-night cruise might be doable for a three-night cruise. Only you can decide if the extra luxury is worth a shorter trip but one of the factors above will likely be in play and help influence your decision.

Tips For Getting The Most Out Of A Short Cruise

The temptation to do it all and see it all can be incredibly daunting. When you’re doing a short cruise, you’re probably not going to be able to see all the shows and taste all the food. If your goal is to relax and unwind, you might have to make some loose plans on what you want to do on board or vow to keep reminding yourself to not put pressure on yourself to do all the things.

• Consider skipping shore excursions
• Be okay with leaving some stones unturned
• Download the app and check-in online
• Get in the earliest possible boarding group you can to maximize your time on board

For many travelers, cruising is the best way to explore our world. You’re on a lovely ship with loads of amenities and can head to multiple exciting ports of call during each sailing. And there’s an incredible extra bonus: You only have to unpack once!

But many avid cruisers have heard about a medical condition that can persist for days, or in rare cases, weeks after getting off the ship. We’re talking about that strange sensation called sea legs. For most, it’s a mild annoyance, but for a few unlucky travelers, it can be downright debilitating. Here’s everything you need to know about the condition called “sea legs” before your next voyage.

What Are Sea Legs?

Simply put, sea legs is the condition some travelers feel after getting off a boat after an extended period of time. You feel as if you’re still on the water, even though you’re back on terra firma. Patients might feel a slight sway as they walk, as if the ground is rolling underneath them. Others might have bouts of dizziness. Doctors say these symptoms likely come from the vestibular system, the mechanism in our inner ears that help control balance and equilibrium. If resetting that system takes a while post-cruise, you could end up with sea legs.

“Vestibular adaptation is the system that regulates balance adapted to the continuous wave motion which increased one’s stability when walking on board, but did not reset when disembarking,” explained Dr. Erik Ensrud, a neurologist at the University of Missouri.

Everyone’s vestibular adaptation kicks in or re-calibrates at different times. This explains why some people are just fine after a sailing, while others might feel a bit like Popeye for a few days.

Tips To Stop The Sway

While there are a few ways to keep that sway at bay, Dr. Ensrud shared a key concept.

“In general, larger boats and less rough seas are less likely to elicit this condition,” he told me. “Smaller range of motion on a larger boat would be expected to result in less vestibular adaptation. Likewise, rougher seas would cause greater continual change in motion, making the syndrome more likely to occur.”

Anecdotally, this checks out, at least with me. Years ago, I was on a lovely Mediterranean cruise that lasted nearly 2 weeks. While the ship had stabilizers, the sea was definitely rough at times. While it wasn’t enough to make me seasick while onboard, it took me several days to regain my land legs and feel normal again. Whereas on river cruises and even aboard a private yacht on the Dalmatian coast, I’ve been just fine. The smaller the swells, the easier it was for my brain and body to readjust to land.

Other tips to consider that might help lessen the effects of sea legs:

• It’s easier said than done, certainly… but try to lay off the booze during and post-cruise. Keep in mind, your inner ear is working overtime during your time on the boat or ship, and some studies have shown alcohol can throw that balancing act off even further. It can also dehydrate you and disrupt your sleep schedule, which could exacerbate the issue.
• Keep moving as much as you can after you disembark. Giving your body doses of that missing motion can help it better reset to land mode. Walking, jogging, and even riding in the car can make a difference.
• Dr. Ensrud also says taking time out for quiet activities could also help lessen the effect of sea legs and its longer-lasting counterpart, Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS), more quickly. “It’s possible that promoting the counteracting system — the parasympathetic system — through activities such as mindfulness or tai chi chuan may help more quickly cease the symptoms of MdDS,” he told me.
• Another thing to keep in mind: Worrying can make it worse! “It’s important to recognize and inform patients this syndrome is not a sign of underlying disease,” said Dr. Ensrud. “This knowledge can reduce the associated anxiety which prolongs symptoms due to over activation of the sympathetic nervous system — this is often involved in prolonging neurological symptoms.”

The Difference Between Sea Legs And Something More Serious

In rare circumstances, sea legs can linger. When that happens, doctors call it Mal de Debarquement Syndrome, or MdDS for short. The difference between the two is all about duration.

“Sea legs is generally thought of as a short-lived sensation lasting at most a day or two,” Dr. Ensrud told me. “MdDS can last much longer, and is considered persistent MDDS when lasting for more than three months.”

According to the MdDS Foundation, secondary symptoms of MdDS that can develop over time include fatigue, difficulty maintaining balance, unsteadiness, and difficulty concentrating. The good news is that the median length of duration for the disorder is about 4 months.

A Hormonal Connection?

The MdDS Foundation also notes that while the condition occurs in both genders and in all age groups, the highest reported incidence is in females between the ages of 30–60. 

Given that fact, I asked Dr. Ensrud if there was any connection between perimenopause or menopause and sea legs or MdDS. He told me that while an interesting association, it’s far from a causal relationship. But that said:

“However, hormones and hormone shifts have significant effects on the central nervous system and the two could indeed be related — it’s unclear.”

Treatment Options Are Out There

For those suffering longer-term effects of MdDS, the idea of waiting for constant rocking and bobbing to go away on its own simply isn’t palatable. It’s important to note help is available that can help it resolve sooner. A couple of different classes of drugs, including benzodiazepines and SSRIs, have been shown to alleviate symptoms in some patients. Physical therapy, including balance and tracking exercises, can also lessen the duration and severity of MdDS.

Dr. Ensrud’s Own Experience

Dr. Ensrud doesn’t just have clinical or research experience in sea legs/MdDS. He actually had the condition himself back in 1999, so knows how frustrating and scary it can be for patients.

”The sensation was very bizarre,” he said. “It felt whenever walking that the ground was rocking beneath me. Fortunately, as a neurologist, I realized it was vestibular adaptation and could relent, which it eventually did spontaneously.”

Final Thoughts: For most of us, sea legs is an annoying but harmless after-effect of a fantastic vacation on the water… and you shouldn’t let it keep you from cruising. That said, if symptoms don’t subside after a couple of weeks, Dr. Ensrud recommends checking in with your physician. Also, if you know you are prone to the condition, you might want to amend cruise plans to include river voyages (fewer waves) instead of ocean crossings, which can be notoriously rough.

Take a look around your next cruise ship and you may just find a unique souvenir: a duck. 

That’s right. Ducks of all sizes and materials are popping up on cruise ships around the world. And it all started with a simple mission: to make people smile. 

Cruising Ducks

The Cruising Ducks phenomenon started in 2018 with an 11-year-old girl named Abby Davis. Her parents say Abby asked them to buy some ducks to take on their 7-day spring break cruise out of Galveston, Texas, aboard the Carnival Breeze. They bought 50 ducks to hide and often saw people become so excited to find one. Her family says Abby even met a girl on the ship that told her how much she loved finding the hidden ducks. The floating hide-and-seek game only grew from there. 

“Abby started this to spread happiness, and we have never would have known it would have been like this,” Abby’s mom, Ashley, tells me. “It really is amazing even to us, how many lives the group has touched.”

Finding Ducks

Recently, my husband and I took an 11-day Greek Isles cruise on Norwegian Cruise Lines out of Athens. On the first day, I saw a woman place a duck on a ledge. It caught my eye because it was so unusual, but I chalked it up to her playing a game with her kids; I had no idea at this point about the cruising duck game. 

A few days later, we were eating, and I saw another woman place something on top of a sign entering the restaurant. I thought this had to be more than a coincidence, so we checked it out and found a small duck with a note on it. After some research about Cruising Ducks, we spent the rest of our time looking for the small ducks all around the ship. We ultimately decided to bring the duck home for our kids, and they are already looking forward to hiding it on our next family cruise. 

Duck Rules

With any game, there are some rules when it comes to hiding and finding ducks on cruise ships. Before you hide them, be sure to label the duck with basic information, like the name of the cruise ship and instructions on what to do when you find them. This message can be as simple as “Keep or hide, you decide.” Some cruisers handwrite their own labels, others create mini “passports” for the duck — you can get as creative as you want! There are plenty of templates online. The label can also include instructions for where to post pictures of you and your new duck so the hiders can see your joy.

When it comes time to hide the ducks, they should be in public places; stay away from shops (may look like shoplifting!), pools, or hot tubs (some kids can’t swim). Also, let’s keep the ocean clean — please don’t hide the ducks somewhere where they can blow into the water (like a handrail). Other than that, get creative! We’ve heard of ducks hidden in elevators, restaurant signs, or even in passenger cabins for the crew to find. 

If you’re lucky enough to find a duck on your cruise, you have the option to either keep it or re-hide it. As I mentioned, we brought ours home to tell our kids about the game, but we plan to re-hide it on our next cruise. Some hiders want to see how far around the world their little duck can go!

“We want to see at least one duck travel on every boat!” explains one Cruising Duck Facebook group member. “I hope whoever finds ours will re-hide and keep sending off on another cruise.”

Different Ducks

Just as the game has grown over the years, so has the creativity when it comes to the ducks. While the game started with basic small rubber ducks, cruisers are now hiding keychains, snow globes, or even making their own duck creations. 

“My past cruise, I made epoxy glow-in-the-dark keychains and epoxy anchor keychains,” says one cruiser. “It allows me to be creative and make things.” Looking online, you will see hand-made wooden ornaments, crocheted ducks, and rubber ducks with added bling to create a bride and groom or a Santa hat for Christmas. 

Response

The idea of hiding ducks may seem a bit silly, so I wanted to know exactly why people love and continue this game. I posed the question on the “Cruising Ducks-Original group” Facebook group, and I received more than 100 responses within an hour! Even more after that! 

“I just heard about the duck hide and find game and I thought it was kind of silly,” explains one group member. “WOW was I wrong! Finding one was the highlight of my day!” Another group member says, “It’s nice to know that a complete stranger wanted to bring a smile to your face.”

Several group members recounted stories of small children melting down and parents struggling, but then they find a duck and suddenly everyone is happy! “Believe me, parents appreciate a successful meltdown stopper, when a child has just had enough,” says one group member. “We carry a couple with us just for that reason.”

Others love the memories the ducks create. “I do it because I travel with my children. It is a great time bonding and making memories.” Others do it for the exercise: “Hid 100 ducks today. Definitely got my steps in!” 

While the reasonings are vast, all of the responses had a similar theme: to spread joy. One group member put it best when she says, “Traveling is the cake, cruising is the icing on the cake. Hiding and finding ducks are the sprinkles in the icing. Everyone likes sprinkles, don’t they?”

Does this game inspire you to take a cruise? Check out our not-to-miss cruise locations for 2023, plus this cruise line bringing in celebrity chefs for some of its itineraries.

I’m in my own little sanctuary on Norwegian Prima, and I’m loving it. Or am I? 

Norwegian Cruise Line leads the way for solo cruisers with its innovative Studio cabins. These are the first staterooms specifically designed and priced for solo travelers, and I chose one of these cabins during my cruise with NCL, a hosted trip that I enjoyed on the line’s brand-new ship as it sailed from Galveston, Texas. 

Norwegian Prima is the first ship in the new Prima Class for NCL, and it offers 73 Studios, which are small inside cabins (no balconies or windows) that measure a compact 94 square feet and provide a great option for solo cruisers who ordinarily would have to book a regular cabin and foot the bill for the full double-occupancy price. (Most cruise lines charge a single supplement, which amounts to a surcharge on the solo cruiser who is in a room meant for two.) 

The Studio concept is not new for Norwegian Cruise Line, though. The line has been the industry leader with these cabins on several of its ships. Other cruise ships feature solo cabins, but NCL has made the largest allotment on its ships, with dozens of Studios, and also creates a kind of ship-within-a-ship complex with its exclusive Studio Lounges. 

I had heard a lot about these staterooms and wanted to try the Studios on Prima so that I could share my experience. There is a large interest in solo cruising, but the cost can be prohibitive for many people who effectively pay an extra full fare to get on board. 

I spent four days and nights onboard Norwegian Prima living the Studio life, and here’s what I learned. 

Things I Loved Cruising Solo 

1. Smart, Simple Design 

These little staterooms measure less than 100 square feet, but they put every inch to smart use. On Norwegian Prima, the décor offers a modern look, with blue, gray, and black as the primary colors.

There is plenty of storage, with two closet spaces and a tall open rack that allows for easy organization and access to items like computers, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, chargers, and cameras. A little cutout in the wall next to the bed serves as a sort of nightstand, with light switches, a little shelf, and a USB outlet. You can stick your luggage under the bed, and the TV is attached to the wall with an arm that lets you telescope the TV away from the wall and spin it into a variety of positions for viewing. 

There is no mini-fridge, however, which is something you get in all other cabin categories. 

The bathroom is an open concept, with see-through glass to keep the room from feeling small. After all, you don’t need bathroom privacy in a cabin for one. Half of the space in the bathroom is dedicated to providing a large walk-in shower, which is a big plus. 

2. A Bigger Bed 

The room is small, indeed. But your bed is bigger than you would get in a standard cabin. The Studio staterooms on Norwegian Prima feature full beds. On a cruise ship, I am used to the typical twin-size bed, which is about 15 inches narrower. You can really feel the difference, and it offered a welcome upgrade in comfort. 

3. The Studio Lounge 

This is the shared exclusive space on Norwegian Prima for passengers staying in the Studio cabins. The area is a fantastic retreat where you can hang out and meet fellow solo cruisers. I enjoyed coming down to do a little work on my computer and watch the World Series game between the Phillies and Astros showing on the large TV. 

4. Peace And Quiet 

The lounge features two comfy living room–style rooms, and these spaces offer couches, chairs, art on the wall, a large-screen TV, and bookshelves filled with homey décor, like photo books, vases, and board games. You can even order room service to the Studio Lounge. It’s a wonderfully serene space to come to read or play a game or chat with new friends. 

5. Snacks And Drinks 

The Studio Lounge is just steps away from the cabins. In addition to the living rooms, it features a large cafeteria-style snack room with tables and a large communal counter seating area that offers goodies throughout the day. The small buffet features fruits, yogurts, and pastries at breakfast, and little sandwiches, apples, bananas, and cookies the rest of the day. 

There are plenty of drink options, as well. It features complimentary coffee, espresso, and juices. Separate machines require you to swipe your room card to pay for self-service beer, wine, margaritas, and sodas. 

It was a fantastic convenience to pop down for a drink, and I’ll admit to having far too many chocolate chip cookies during my short cruise. 

Things I Didn’t Like Cruising Solo

1. The Darkness 

With no window or balcony, the Studio cabins offer no natural light. This can make it a little disorienting because it’s always dark inside the cabin. This makes for a great night’s sleep, but for people, like me, who like to wake naturally to the sunrise creeping into the room, this might be a little frustrating. 

Pro Tip: Tune Into The Sunrise

A fellow cruiser gave me a great tip for helping with this issue. Almost every cruise ship offers a TV channel dedicated to showing the “bridge camera view.” When cruising in these Studio staterooms — or an inside cabin in general — you can turn your TV to this channel at night and allow the sunrise to gradually wake you up via the TV screen. Norwegian Cruise Line has considered this, it seems, because these cabins offer a “virtual porthole” channel on the TV that gives a live view of the outside. 

2. The Tiny Space 

While I mentioned that it is well designed and I had no problems organizing and storing my items, the space in the room is a bit cramped. It offers a desk area with a little stool. However, it’s not a spot that I would use (or envision any cruiser really sitting there). Instead, you will spend most of your time in your bed while in the cabin. This is nice and relaxing for the most part, but the floor space is also tight around the bed, especially for a person my size (6′ 4″ and 190 pounds). 

The shower is a nice size, but the bathroom space for the toilet and in front of the sink can be tight, too. 

Pro Tip: Move slowly and deliberately while in your studio (especially large people) so you don’t end up banging your knees or elbows. 

The Verdict

All in all, I had a wonderful and relaxing time staying in my — albeit tiny and windowless — Studio cabin on Norwegian Prima. While there wasn’t as much interaction with other cruisers in the lounge as I might have hoped, this probably was more a function of the number of solo cruisers staying in these staterooms on my particular sailing. This ship was not full, and I only saw a few others who were booked in the Studio rooms with me.

However, it was definitely nice to be able to escape to my exclusive retreat space whenever I wanted to get away from the hubbub of the main public areas. 

Cruising is a great way to experience several cities and countries without having to switch hotels. Your ship is always waiting for you at the end of the day. 

My cruising experience has taken me to the beautiful Caribbean and Mexico, but we wanted to tap our experts to find out the top destinations for 2023. Ryan Baird, cruise director for Royal Caribbean; Jill Whelan, spokesperson for Princess Cruises (and former cast member on The Love Boat); and Anthony Meloro, Royal Caribbean International’s director of business development support, shared their top places to visit in 2023 — just in time for wave season. 

1. Santorini, Greece

This beautiful island is teeming with amazing snorkeling, gorgeous sunsets, and unique architecture. It’s no wonder Santorini is one of the most popular places to visit in Greece. However, the beaches are not your typical beaches. The usual white sand is replaced by black and red lava rocks. One of the most visited beaches is Red Beach.

Whelan loves this port of call on a Mediterranean cruise. She especially enjoys the weather, the food, and the people. But Santorini isn’t the only sought-after stop; Mykonos is also at the top. Check out the key differences between the two islands to see which might be the best port for your cruise. 

Favorite Restaurant In Santorini

There is an amazing restaurant on the backside of the island, nestled in a cave right on the water. Whelan discovered it during one of her cruises. The restaurant is named for its owner: Taverna Katina. Katina was born in that cave, Whelan says, and gets fresh seafood delivered in a wheelbarrow each day. Whelan watched the fisherman bring it in as she was having lunch. 

The owner is so warm, and the fish is very fresh and delicious! If you stop by, Whelan says to tell the owner “hi” from her. 

You can check out Princess Cruises’ Santorini excursions here. 

Santorini Vineyards

You can also find some of the world’s most breathtaking vineyards in Santorini. You have more than 18 to choose from. Santo is a beautiful spot to sip the evening away and watch the sunset, and Venetsanos Winery is a quaint vineyard to enjoy spectacular views. If you enjoy a great glass of wine surrounded by stunning scenery, here’s more about wine tasting in Santorini. 

2. Rome, Italy

Rome was not built in a day, nor is it realistic to see all that Rome has to offer in one. How could you choose between the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Sistine Chapel, and Spanish Steps? It is simple: Choose to see it all! That option is only possible if you allow a few days before or after your cruise. 

Favorite Restaurants In Rome

If you are looking for an authentic dining experience in Rome, then it is all about the pasta Carbonara, the quintessential Roman dish. Baird always makes a point to visit Armando al Pantheon for this delicious pasta. Reservations are needed, so make sure to plan ahead.

Whelan says there is no better place for a cocktail than the Hotel De Russie. It’s like you’ve entered into a gorgeous movie at the foot of the Villa Borghese, surrounded by elegant people from around the globe. They serve some of the most delicious cocktails she’s ever had.

Roma Pass

For guests staying in Rome, Baird suggests the Roma Pass for your upcoming 2023 voyage. The Roma Pass offers free admission to your choice of two historic sites, discounted admission to others, skip-the-line options, and free public transportation in the city.

Pro Tip: With a number of sailing options available, Baird highly recommends embarking or disembarking your cruise vacation in Civitavecchia, the port of Rome. He always flies to the ship a few days before the start of the cruise or stays a few days after disembarking for two reasons. One, to give him a safety cushion for issues that might come up with air travel, like delayed flights or worse, lost luggage. Secondly, to see the sites!

If you’re interested in visiting, check out Princess Cruises’ Rome excursions.

3. Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is the one U.S. state capital accessible only by sea and air, so a cruise is the perfect way to visit this unique city. The city sits along the Gastineau Channel and at the foot of Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts. A great place to start exploring is the Sealaska Heritage Institute, and don’t forget to say hi to the Patsy Ann statue, the official state greeter. TravelAwaits writer Jo-Anne Bowen found several other unique places to visit in this beautiful city. 

Despite her many years of cruising, Whelan’s first time to Alaska was in 2018. She was surprised by the temperate rainforests and vibrant green moss. The tempting but poisonous wild red mushrooms with white polka dots caught her eye but thankfully didn’t make it onto her plate. Whelan said the helicopter to the glaciers was a magical experience. Princess has many options for onshore excursions when visiting Alaska. 

Having spent several seasons in Alaska, Baird says Juneau is his favorite port of call. Over the course of a day, one can hike on a glacier, soar above mountains of ice, stroll the charming streets, and grab a drink at the historic Red Dog Saloon.

Favorite Juneau Restaurants

If you choose to stay in town, swing by Baird’s favorite restaurant, Salt. Here, you can find the foods and flavors that made Alaska seafood famous, such as cedar plank salmon, halibut, or Dungeness crab, a local favorite. Make sure to give the spruce tip ale a try — a beer made from the tips of the Sitka spruce, the state tree of Alaska.

In downtown Juneau, Whelan loves a little outdoor takeaway and sit-down joint called Deckhand Dave’s. She says they have the best salmon tots and sauce. 

Air Tour

A trip to Juneau would not be complete without exploring the area. Baird’s favorite tour would be a flight to Taku Lodge. You will fly high above the mountains and glaciers of Southeast Alaska and land in front of the historic Taku Lodge for a traditional salmon bake. Be sure to have your cameras ready, as black bears are often spotted in the vicinity. This is a very popular, often sold-out tour, so make sure to pre-book online before the start of your cruise to guarantee availability.

4. Buenos Aires, Argentina

If Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls, Rio de Janeiro, Patagonia, and even a trip to Antarctica sound intriguing to you, then maybe a South American cruise in 2023 is what you are looking for. As a cruise director, Baird has spent many seasons cruising South America. Most South American cruises start or end in Buenos Aires, Argentina — which happens to be one of his favorite ports in the Southern Hemisphere. 

Tango In Buenos Aires

Baird’s favorite thing to do in Buenos Aires is to watch a tango show — after all, La Boca in Buenos Aires is the birthplace of tango. There are many ways to watch a tango show, from expensive all-inclusive dinner shows to tango on the street. Baird recommends heading to Plaza Dorrego in San Telmo, grabbing a table, and watching some of the most passionate dancers in the city in an open-air forum. Plaza Dorrego is also a great place for those looking for a bargain, as street vendors encircle the plaza.

Recoleta District

Another must-see in the city is the Recoleta district, famous for the Recoleta Cemetery. Considered one of the most unusual cemeteries in the world, it is also the final resting place of the famed Evita Peron. As you stroll the grounds, you will see elaborately carved scrollwork with a wide range of architectural styles spanning the centuries. Outside the cemetery, you will find an open market with vendors selling all sorts of local crafts and wares.

Cafe Tortoni 

A trip to Buenos Aires would not be complete without visiting Café Tortoni for lunch. This iconic coffee house opened its doors in 1858 and was the local watering hole for the cultural elite — including Albert Einstein on his frequent visits to the city.

5. Naples, Italy

In the shadow of Mount Vesuvius and beloved for its pizza, Naples’s historic center, Old Town Naples, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. TravelAwaits writer Jo-Anne Bowen suggests some truly unique places to visit, including the church of skulls. You could spend your entire day just exploring the tremendous history, but then you would miss out on the fabulous food. 

Naples is one of Meloro’s favorite destinations for many reasons. First is family. His grandfather was from a very small village in Southern Italy called San Giuliano di Puglia. At the age of 14, he sailed from Naples to America to build a better life for himself and his future family. 

Mount Vesuvius

Of course, a visit to the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum are must-dos, but make sure you add in time to conquer Vesuvius. If you have a choice, Meloro would recommend visiting in April and May or September and October to take advantage of cooler weather; he traveled in late June, and temps hovered in the high 90s. 

But that hardly matters when you hike the magical Mount Vesuvius. The feeling you get looking down at Pompeii ruins and the hardened lava stream from the last major eruption in 1944 is humbling and awe-inspiring. Only upon arrival at the top do you realize the full majesty of this special place. The smoke coming up from the crater looks otherworldly. The views of the Bay of Naples to the northwest and Pompeii to the southeast simply take your breath away. As you look past Pompeii to the southwest, you can see Sorrento and Capri on a clear day. 

Sorrentino Vesuvio Winery

Because of its proximity to where your ship docks, this can all be done in an unhurried full-day excursion. Meloro’s lunch break was at Sorrentino Vesuvio Winery, where the grapes are manually harvested from vines planted in the volcanic soil on the slopes of Mt Vesuvius. Authentic home-cooked pasta dishes paired with their Lacryma Christi Del Vesuvio Rosso is Heaven on Earth!

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Croatia has increased in popularity in recent years. It’s located across from Italy on the Adriatic Coast. The country’s pristine beaches are a draw for most first-time visitors, and it also boasts some of the best Roman ruins outside of Italy. You can also see a castle or two.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik

A popular port of call is Dubrovnik. This city is one of the reasons Croatia is on Whelan’s list for 2023. Located on the Dalmatian Coast, this city is a big draw for most folks because of its deep blue waters and sunny Mediterranean climate. 

A popular place to visit is The Walls of Dubrovnik. They were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. This historic site has been renovated and modified over the years, but it’s considered to be one of the greatest extant fortification systems of the Middle Ages. 

This port is drenched with history. Dubrovnik Cathedral dates back to the seventh century. It’s been rebuilt twice. Another fun activity to try is the Dubrovnik Cable Car; you can see the city in an entirely different way. And don’t forget to enjoy some traditional dishes.

Whelan is looking forward to exploring this country and the excursions Princess Cruises has to offer. The cruise line has 24 different options for Dubrovnik.

Do you have dreams of Tahiti? 

It’s a far-off paradise with warm waters, gentle breezes, year-round sunshine, and beautiful and welcoming people. So of course you do! 

Well, when you finally decide to make those dreams come true and plan a trip to this magical region of the world, you want to make sure to do it right. 

I was invited to sail with Windstar Cruises on its small motor yacht Star Breeze. We spent a week in Tahiti visiting islands for adventures at stunning beaches and in blue waters. Along the way, we learned about the culture and history of this fascinating place. 

This cruise line is celebrating 35 years of offering immersive travel in French Polynesia on its small ships, and I found a number of great things to love about a cruise to Tahiti with Windstar. 

It all starts with the incredible islands you visit. 

1. Moorea 

After sailing away during the night from Papeete, the capital city and home port for cruise ships in Tahiti, we woke up in what appeared to be a Gauguin painting. 

Moorea — with its craggy volcanic mountains and soft inviting beaches — was our first destination, and Star Breeze anchored in gorgeous Cook’s Bay for the day, with Mount Rotui majestically overlooking the ship. 

Windstar’s shore excursion program in Tahiti is packed with adventures and unique cultural experiences. At each island throughout the week, cruisers were faced with an abundance of choices, like snorkel safaris, 4×4 Jeep off-road tours, exploring the waters on wave runners, stingray or dolphin encounters, and beach cookouts. 

We opted for a whale-watching outing in Moorea. This was an afternoon excursion, so we had a morning to enjoy Star Breeze and play at the ship’s marina. We jumped in for a swim, then tried out kayaking, paddle boarding, jumping on the trampoline, and lazing on floating mats. 

We set out for our whale safari after lunch at the ship’s Veranda buffet restaurant. Dr. Michael Poole, who has been living on Moorea and studying whale activity for more than three decades, was our guide, and he brought us right out to a spot where we watched a mother humpback and calf swimming and jumping for about an hour. Whales breed in this part of the world, then migrate to feed in Antarctica. 

We learned so much during our 3-hour trip out toward the coral reef at the edge of the lagoon and had such a wow-worthy time watching these great animals up close. 

2. Bora Bora 

Star Breeze spent two days in Bora Bora, again anchored in a stunning lagoon. 

We found ourselves waking up each morning, looking at the surroundings, and stating, “Oh, just another day in paradise.” 

That’s how it goes in Tahiti, where every spot, while special in its own way, is indescribably beautiful. 

At Bora Bora, which is located northwest of Tahiti and known for its sandy little islets filled with coconut trees (called lotuses), we went off the ship to the city of Vaitape for an “Aqua Safari.” This was a fun helmet dive that sent us 12 feet below the surface, right next to a coral reef, to walk on the sandy bottom and interact with colorful reef fish and a curious sting ray. 

For a helmet dive, guides place an 80-pound helmet over your head to rest on your shoulders and provide all the oxygen needed to breathe and relax while you stroll under the sea. 

Windstar also offers excursions like glass-bottom boat tours, jet tours, snorkeling with stingrays, cultural, discovery tours, and scuba diving introductions in Bora Bora. 

On our second day, we enjoyed a deluxe lagoon tour that was a nice small-group ride out to the edge of the reef on a speed boat. We had a snorkel stop and swim break in clear blue waters, with fresh fruit and rum punches served up while we splashed about. We also were lucky to see a pod of about three dozen dolphins frolicking by the boat on our way back to shore. 

During the evening, we were ferried to a motu (a reef islet) for Windstar’s signature Destination Discovery Event, which was a festive dinner on our own private island. More on this later. 

3. Raiatea And Taha’a 

Windstar visits these sister islands for two days of adventures. 

While at Uturoa, Raiatea, we took the chance to go on an outrigger canoe voyage up the Faaroa River, the lone navigable river in the Society Islands. Meeting our guide, Tihoti, at the cruise pier, our group set off to the small marina to hop in an outrigger for a thrilling ride out to sea, cruising past pearl farms and luxury homes in a secluded bay before we arrived at the mouth of the river. 

Tihoti is an icon in Tahiti. He’s a noted historian, tour guide, and tattoo artist, with his own body filled with art pieces that tell the tales of his ancestry and his island nation. During our tour up the serene river, we were able to stop off to buy bananas, coconut water, and vanilla beans from farmers who set up little shops on the banks of the waterway. Tihoti told us about how much he loves the natural beauty of the islands — “We don’t have snow!” — and did a chant and played a nose flute to show us how he connects with his surroundings and pays homage to all that nature provides. 

The next day, at Taha’a, we went out for a drift snorkeling adventure, with a boat taking us out to the edge of the reef. We walked out into the waters, slipped on our masks and flippers, and glided with the current over a beautiful coral garden. Then, the boat dropped us off at a motu to join our fellow cruisers for a day at the beach and a big barbecue lunch. Colleen and I enjoyed a bit of kayaking around the postcard-perfect little island. 

You definitely can get your fill of all kinds of activity on a Windstar cruise in Tahiti. 

Pro Tip: Take an afternoon nap. We had a nice lay down every afternoon and felt refreshed for the evenings. The days of sunshine and excursions can wear you out. 

4. Destination Discovery Event 

Tahiti is one of two destinations in the world where Windstar features a signature Destination Discovery Event. This is a big off-the-ship bash — a cultural immersion with a dinner and a show at an epic locale. (The other place Windstar holds this is at Ephesus in Turkey.) 

Our party took place on a remote motu while we were visiting Bora Bora. Passengers arrive on a special ferry boat and are greeted with leis and Tahitian music as they stroll ashore on their own private island. We enjoyed some swimming and gazing at the sunset while wandering the sands and listening to the live music performed by a local group playing drums, a ukulele, and guitars. 

After a sumptuous dinner buffet featuring lobster, fish cooked in banana leaves, ceviche with coconut milk, and desserts such as poe, sweet potato cake, and rice pudding, the festivities really gained energy. 

Our group of about 150 (plus Star Breeze crew) was transfixed by a show that included hula dancing, fire dancing, feats of strength (men stripping a coconut with their teeth and bare hands), and fire eating to close out a fantastic celebration of the Tahitian and Polynesian culture. 

5. Spa Time 

Star Breeze is a small ship with big spa energy. Windstar has dedicated a large space to its impressive World Spa facility. The ship features several rooms where you can receive a range of massages, as well as a salon for hair and nail treatments and a big thermal suite area with a sauna, ceramic loungers, relaxation room, and experience shower. There is also a nice locker area with a changing room and shower. 

Cruisers can even book a couple’s “Massage Under the Stars” on an outer deck during the evening. Colleen and I indulged and treated ourselves to a Swedish massage out on the bow of the ship in a serene setting that was pure romantic bliss, complete with a glass of Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries afterward. 

6. The Star Breeze

A Ship That Fits The Destination 

Star Breeze carries just 312 people max — and on our cruise, the ship only had 150 cruisers. It’s a motor yacht that blends in nicely with the surroundings. Residents we spoke with mentioned that they liked that it’s not one of those huge cruise ships that overwhelm many destinations with thousands of people streaming ashore. 

With the marina at the back of the ship, it is also perfectly equipped to jump right into the waters and marvel at the scenery as you swim or paddle around idyllic bays and lagoons. 

Star Breeze features a lot of outdoor space with natural teak decking. It really is a yachting lifestyle onboard, with a duo of singers performing while cruisers gather at the Star Bar for sunset cocktails. Others like to use the pool and hot tubs or bliss out on the loungers and comfy couches available all over the top of the ship. 

We also loved the chance to dine al fresco for almost every meal at the ship’s Star Grill or Veranda eateries. 

The program also brings on residents from the islands to give talks and share stories about life in French Polynesia. We had an especially fun time one afternoon learning how to make leis and dancing with the Mamas and Papas group, who played Tahitian music in the ship’s Compass Rose lounge. 

Pro Tip: Bring plenty of sunscreen, a good hat and sunglasses, and comfortable beachwear so you can be well protected from the plentiful sunshine. 

7. Delicious Cuisine

Speaking of the ship’s dining, Star Breeze offered an overall outstanding culinary experience, with items offered throughout the day to suit any taste. The main dining room is Amphora, which serves dinner in a pretty space with a more formal dress code. The menu offers gourmet creations using regional ingredients, such as marinated octopus with grapefruit and fennel or pan-roasted Pacific cod. You can also get classics like salmon, chicken, and steak dishes. 

Veranda is the ship’s buffet eatery, open for breakfast and lunch with a wide variety of delicious entrees, salads, and desserts. Made-to-order eggs are cooked perfectly at breakfast, and the chefs work at carving stations or serve up pasta or stir-fry creations as you watch. 

At night, the space becomes Candles, a wonderful steak restaurant where passengers eat outside in the balmy breezes under moonlit skies. 

Windstar has partnerships with renowned chefs for two more restaurants on Star Breeze. 

Star Grill by Steven Raichlen is the al fresco eatery at the top of the ship offering lunches and dinners from a menu that features rotisserie and smoked meats and vegetables. During our Tahiti cruise, we enjoyed bourbon-brined smoked turkey breast, chicken wings, beef brochette, and a variety of fish dishes. You can also get a nice juicy burger or hot dog here. 

The ship also offers Cuadro 44 by Michelin-star chef Anthony Sasso, who has created a Spanish tapas restaurant with a New York flair on Star Breeze. The menu features delights such as grilled octopus and chorizo, paella croquettes, sea bream filets, pork belly, and lamb chops, as well as the most delicious churros with chocolate dipping sauce. 

Star Breeze covers every base, with food, entertainment, cultural enrichment, and shore excursions so you can really choose how to enjoy your time in paradise. 

On the 25^th day of the Jewish month of Kislev, corresponding this year to the evening of Sunday, December 18, Jews around the world will begin the 8-day celebration of Hanukkah, sometimes referred to as the festival of lights. Hanukkah, or Chanukah, commemorates the Jewish victory in 165 B.C. over the Syrian-Greek oppression led by King Antiochus IV.

Under his reign, the Temple in Jerusalem was converted into a pagan shrine and the Jews were prohibited from performing any of their traditional religious practices. When the Jews, led by Judah Maccabee and the Hasmonean family, regained control of the Temple, it was cleansed and rededicated. Only one small jug of oil for the Temple’s menorah (candelabrum) was located. After the High Priest rekindled the oil, he anticipated that it would last only 1 day. Instead, the flame remained for 8 days.

For centuries, Jews have recalled this historic military victory and the rededication of the Temple — along with the miracle of the oil lasting for 8 days — by celebrating Hanukkah, the Hebrew word for rededication. A hanukkiah, or menorah with nine holders, is used for a family’s nightly tradition of lighting candles. The ninth candle, called the shamash, lights the other candles. On the first night, only one candle is lit with the shamash. On each successive night, another candle is added to the hanukkiah and lit.

Since the Hebrew calendar is configured differently than the Gregorian calendar, Hanukkah can start as early as the very end of November or as late as the last few days of December. The new day on a Hebrew calendar always begins at sundown — so Jewish holidays and festivals commence at sundown.

Why We Started Celebrating Hanukkah Aboard A Cruise Ship

Decades ago, we came together as a family with our four sons to light candles and sing songs every night and celebrated Hanukkah at least one evening with extended family members. We wanted our sons to experience this home-based holiday with their grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Gifts were exchanged by everyone.

They grew up eating traditional foods like latkes (potato pancakes), sufganiyot (jelly donuts), homemade Hanukkah cookies baked in the shape of dreidels, menorahs, and six-pointed stars, and chocolate in the shape of a coin covered in gold or silver foil. These semi-sweet and milk chocolates are referred to as gelt and recall the Eastern European Jewish tradition of parents giving money to their children during the holiday. Another annual tradition was playing a game called dreidel. Most of the time, we used a diaspora dreidel with the Hebrew letters nun, gimmel, hay, and shin, standing for Hebrew words meaning “a great miracle happened there.”

Celebrate With Folks From Around The World

Family gatherings became more challenging when our eldest sons went to college. To accommodate their conflicting schedules, we embarked on our first Hanukkah cruise and fell in love with the concept of cruising during the festival. Our family gathered in our cabin to light our electric hanukkiah and had the opportunity to join with Jews from around the world for a short Hanukkah program each night. However, due to safety regulations, we were unable to light actual candles.

The chefs created a variety of latkes and sufganiyot that we ordered throughout the cruise. The festive ambiance aboard the ship, along with the fun times in port, created memorable experiences.

Why We Continue To Celebrate Hanukkah Aboard A Cruise Ship

One by one, our children became engaged and then married their significant other. A few years later, grandchildren added a new dimension to our growing family. Early on, we introduced the next generation to our family’s traditional songs, holiday foods, and ritual observances.

Escape The Cold

For the last couple of years, we have coordinated our travel plans so our growing family can be together for at least one day during Hanukkah. While our preference is to ski during the winter months, we usually avoid the holiday crowds on the Colorado slopes until New Year’s Day.

Deciding whether to stay home or travel during winter break is a toss-up. Taking a cruise to a tropical climate is always enticing, especially when we are celebrating only one day of Hanukkah with our children and grandchildren.

Cruising and celebrating Hanukkah go hand in hand. On board the ship, we thrive in a festive environment filled with theatrical performances, live music, the opportunity to dance, an abundance of activities, and amazing food choices. At ports of call, our desire to explore and participate in outdoor adventures is fulfilled. We also have quality time relaxing on our balcony or on outdoor decks.

Enjoy Traditional Foods

During Hanukkah, many cruise ships offer early evening programs with traditional foods. Our experience aboard Celebrity cruise ships has been positive. A cantor or rabbi leads a short service that includes songs along with the lighting of an electric hanukkiah. Afterward, the group is treated to kosher wine, latkes and sufganiyot, and challah if the day coincides with the Jewish Sabbath.

We have had the good fortune of chatting with people from around the world during these celebrations. Sometimes these encounters have blossomed into relationships that continue after we return home.

As empty nesters, living mostly in a quiet house, we find it uplifting to be aboard a cruise ship during the holiday season. While the decades of being surrounded by children every day are behind us, we can reap the benefits by having holiday family gatherings and filling the remainder of our time with energizing experiences. Perhaps when our grandchildren are a little older, they will join us on a holiday cruise so we can introduce them to another one of our traditions.

Christmas markets are a centuries-old tradition in Europe and a bucket list trip for many. We’ve been delighted by what we’ve found in each and every one we recently explored during Viking’s Christmas on the Rhine cruise. As we sailed up the Rhine from Switzerland to Amsterdam, we knew we had to pick up plenty of gifts for friends and family!

We covered a lot of ground: eight different markets in a week. Here’s our round-up of all of our favorite purchases made along the way. Hope there’s enough room in our checked luggage to get it all back home!

Colmar, France

Colmar, France is a fairy-tale sort of place, one that reminded us a lot of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Its Christmas markets were sparkling and sweet; so were the goodies we picked up here.

Tea Towels

Erika: I went linen-crazy in Colmar. I love tea towels and find you can never have enough of them in your kitchen. The ones I found at Colmar’s charming and historic Au vieux Pignon store will make the perfect gifts. Their cheery scarlet and beige plaid patterns feature storks, which nest year after year in special round nests on top of the town’s churches and cathedrals. They’re the mascots of Colmar, and really the Alsace region. I’ll be happy to have the linens grace the homes of my loved ones.

Ganache-Filled Chocolate Gingerbread Men

Missy: French Chocolatier Jacques Bockel’s Christmas market stand is filled with many delicious choices. After careful consideration, the bag of 11 chocolate gingerbread men was the perfect first gift pick. They’re small so they won’t carry heavy; come in a variety of milk, dark, and white chocolate; and are adorably decadent. Each gingerbread man is filled with a special flavor of chocolate ganache. Delish!

Riquewihr, France

Tucked in between the Vosges Mountains and the Alsace plain, tiny Riquewihr leans in hard on the holidays. The centuries-old half-timbered homes are a delight, as are the specialty food stalls and hand-crafted gifts to be found around every corner of this charming spot.

Leather Bracelets

Erika: I picked up lovely leather bracelets for both my boys (husband and son) from a local artisan here. I speak just a few words of French but quickly learned that the man selling them was indeed the one who made them and had been certified as an artisan by the government. It was important to me during this trip that I bought and supported local economies and individual artists as much as I could; mission accomplished!

Filet Mignon

Missy: This is likely a gift for yourself, rather than to bring home, but I was amazed by the unique food choices in Riquewihr. Cheeses, chocolates, duck, sausages, foie gras, fruit cakes, and, yes, filet mignon. They’ll cook it right there for you so you can enjoy it with your vin chaud (hot wine) or the whiskey and brandy that was just a booth or two away. Have a seat in the adorable little courtyard surrounded by centuries-old buildings and enjoy.

Strasbourg, France

This melting pot of a border city is quite French, yet German influences can be seen, felt, and even tasted everywhere. Its old town is actually an island, situated in the River Ill. See beautiful bridges over canals that meander throughout the city, which decks itself out for the holidays. Strands of glittering lights hang over the city’s picturesque squares, and the holiday display outside of Strasbourg’s cathedral is especially breathtaking. 

Wooden Ornament

Erika: There were many, many stalls at Strasbourg’s Christmas markets, but I did have to hunt a bit before finding the perfect take-home memento. It’s a hand-spun wooden Christmas ornament, stained red to show off its grain. It’s beautiful and won’t break in my luggage.

Alsacian Terra-Cotta House

Missy: I’ve always wondered where folks with beautiful Christmas villages got their start, and now I know. Strasbourg’s gorgeous cathedral is surrounded by Christmas markets. The one that drew me in was filled with lovely handmade homes that can be used as fragrance diffusers or incense holders. These homes are typical of what you’d see in Strasbourg and other villages in the Alsace region of France and make a lovely keepsake. I asked if they had a store or website, but unfortunately, you can only find these at the market.

Bonus: Maenele

Missy: These gingerbread man-shaped sweet breads are delicious and you can only find these during the holidays. We tried ours at Pains Westermann located on a beautifully decorated street. They were available with raisins, chocolate chips, or plain.

Heidelberg, Germany

This university town mostly escaped the bombing during World War II, a fact that’s evident as you wander its charming cobblestone streets and historic homes and into its Christmas markets, which occupy most of its squares during the holiday season. The Marktplatz is especially lively, with rides for the kids and some of the best gluhwein we sampled during our time on the Rhine!

Students Kiss Chocolates

Erika: Our tour guide pointed out a chocolatier just off the Marktplatz that sold traditional candies. When we popped back into Chocolaterie Knösel, we learned they were called “students kisses,” and the story behind them is as sweet as they are. Boys studying at the university would buy these individually wrapped and boxed chocolates and give them to young ladies in hopes of beginning a courtship. It’s a tradition that dates back to the 1800s. I snagged one for my husband, who I met at university. I think he’ll get a kick out of the story behind the little sweet!

Glühwein Mug

Missy: I had no idea I’d fall in love with all of the unique holiday mugs each town uses to serve Glühwein, but Heidelberg’s was my favorite. Beautifully decorated with a heart-shaped handle, I wished I had brought more than one home. This was also the first place we tried rosé Glühwein, which was our favorite. 

Pro Tip: Our guide said to look for the Glühwein stands which displayed the winery name as part of the offerings. This would confirm the wine is local to the region and usually without preservatives. We heeded the advice and the ones we tried were very tasty.

Koblenz, Germany

Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, Kooblenz features loads of history, a fortress, nearby castles, and an imposing statue of Emperor Wilhelm I on horseback looking out over the water. The city’s historic center dates back centuries and comes alive during the holidays with many stalls filled with fun finds, and, of course, plenty of festive food and drink.

Caramels

Erika: Just off one of the main Christmas markets, we checked out a tiny boutique called Frl. Diehl Karamell, known for its handmade gourmet caramels. They came in a variety of flavors, including chocolate sea salt, vanilla, and even cardamom. I picked out a dozen, and they were beautifully boxed up. They’ll be the perfect treat for my mother-in-law, who makes caramels every Christmas for her family and friends.

Glühwein Spices

Missy: Once you’ve consumed enough Glühwein in multiple European cities, the thought of not being able to savor the warm drink when you return home doesn’t sit well. Pfeffersack & Soehne in Koblenz has ceramic containers filled with a variety of spices and all would make a great gift. But once I saw the bags of spices for red and white Glühwein, I picked them up immediately and am happy to know more can be ordered online.

Cologne, Germany

We arrived in Germany’s fourth largest city on a Sunday morning, which was the perfect time to visit its gorgeous Gothic masterpiece of a cathedral during an Advent mass. We listened in for a few unforgettable moments, then wandered just outside the UNESCO World Heritage site to an adjacent market with a brass band playing holiday favorites. Cologne’s markets were extensive and featured elves everywhere — on signs, bags of cookies, Glühwein mugs, even on a mini-ski lift! A favorite treat: a group of jet-skiing Santas, who passed right by our Viking boat docked along the Rhine.

Nutcracker

Erika: Every year, my family decks the halls, and that includes putting out our collection of nutcrackers we’ve collected over the years. I knew I wanted to add to that collection during this trip, and looked high and low for a hand-crafted, German-made nutcracker. My persistence paid off. I found a gorgeous solid wood soldier produced by a family-run company called Christian Ulbricht. The large nutcracker isn’t painted, but rather stained in different colors, and is just beautiful. He took up a lot of room in my suitcase and was not cheap, but I know he’ll last for years to come and always remind me of Cologne.

Advent Calendar

Missy: This beautiful Advent calendar doesn’t come with any chocolate or other goodies. It’s simple, but I just loved the antique look with Cologne’s cathedral and children in the horse-drawn sleigh. Plus, it’s perfectly light and packable. In addition to Advent calendars, this stand had plenty of beautiful, antique-looking Christmas cards to choose from as well.

Bonus: Butter Spekulatius Cookies

Missy: I couldn’t pass up on these cookies made in Cologne and in the shape of the city’s famous elves. They come plain and spiced and are perfect to share with guests during the holidays.

Bonus: Glass Ornaments

Erika: Here is where I broke my “don’t buy anything breakable” rule. I couldn’t resist picking up a few stunning hand-blown glass ornaments crafted by a local artisan. I especially loved the witches’ ball design, with its delicate and fine glass threads or webbings pulled from bottom to top. I know they will make the perfect gifts for family and friends. While Viking brought the artist on for a glass-blowing demonstration and we were able to buy on the ship, the artist also had a booth in Cologne’s Christmas market next to the Cathedral.

Düsseldorf, Germany

Cologne’s rival city to the north, Düsseldorf has always been the fashion center of Germany. But in the winter, its Altstadt district comes alive during the winter holiday season with one of the biggest Christmas markets in the country. It boasts seven different sites, each one with a different theme. There’s even an ice-skating rink for those who want to really get into the spirit!

Sugared Almonds

Erika: This was our last market, and by the time we got to Düsseldorf, my holiday shopping was pretty much complete. But I did get one small thing here — a small paper parcel of sugared almonds. Indulging in this holiday treat in such a festive setting was the perfect present for myself!

Wooden Smokers

Missy: Growing up in a German farming community, smokers weren’t unfamiliar, but I couldn’t resist the two Santas. The food and drink served at Christmas markets really brings friends and families together, and I loved it. Considering the number of bratwursts and mugs of Glühwein we enjoyed, these smokers will bring back amazing memories for years to come during the holidays.

Netherlands

Missy: Finally, the Netherlands doesn’t really have any Christmas markets, but they do have siroopwafels (also known as stroopwafels). On our last stop on the cruise, we visited Gouda and Van Vliet, the only family bakery still making the delicious treat in town. We were able to make, and enjoy, our own siroopwafel. I also picked up a few bags from the shop. I must say, they’re my boys’ favorite treat from the entire trip.

One of the best ways to travel efficiently and see as many places as you can in one trip is by going on a cruise. They are packed with entertainment and allow us to see the world in a very leisurely way. But one thing you can’t escape from are the small rooms. Most cruise ship rooms are between 150 and 185 square feet, so it is important to try to get the most out of that small space.

Luckily, there are several ways to make that tiny cabin seem bigger than it actually is. We polled frequent cruise ship travelers to see how they’re able to best use that tiny space. Here are their seven essentials so you can do the same.

Strongman Magnets

Buy Now $10.99

“Most cruisers don’t realize that cabin walls are made of metal! These magnet hooks will stick just about anywhere in your stateroom. Add a hook for conveniently hanging towels, bathing suits, and more. We always stick a couple just inside our door to hang our cruise lanyards. That way, we never forget or lose those during our trip.” — Jeremy Camosse, author of Cruise Hacks

Simple Houseware Hanging Shoe Organizer

Buy Now $9.97

“Simple Houseware sells a hanging shoe organizer on Amazon, and that has to be the smartest thing you can purchase for a cruise. Not only can you store your shoes in them, but all of your toiletries and accessories too. It frees up plenty of sink space that would otherwise be cluttered and doesn’t take up space when you hang it up. You’ll be amazed at how much space this option gives you. The best part is its $10 price tag.” — Larry Snider, VP of Operations of Casago Vacation Rentals

Power Cube Outlet Extender

Buy Now $15.99

“This is the most compact charging device we’ve ever used. And, it’s non-surge protected and fully cruise compliant. Cruise cabins come with just one outlet, yet we always have our phones, tablets, e-readers, and other devices to charge. It’s always a struggle to figure out who gets to charge their stuff, resulting in half-charged devices for the day, [but] this must-have cruise item lets us power up six items at a time. Best of all, it takes up less space than an apple.” — Jeremy Camosse, author of Cruise Hacks

Cruise Organizer Holder Retardent Pocket

Buy Now $17.99

“There’s very little counter or shelf space in the average stateroom. Here’s a cruise hack that most fail to take advantage of; use ‘vertical space.’ A hanging organizer allows you to store and easily access the items that would otherwise pile up in the corners of your cabin. This particular item is flame retardant, so it adheres to cruise line policies and won’t be confiscated while boarding. It’s also very lightweight and takes up next to no size when collapsed. It easily hangs on your interior cabin door with three included hooks.” — Jeremy Camosse, author of Cruise Hacks

DonYeco 5-Shelf Over The Door Organize

Buy Now $16.99

“For less than $30, this foldable over-the-door organizer is less than 3×2 inches when folded, super lightweight, and fully adjustable. I take it with me on every cruise I go on (and I’ve been on many cruises). I can ultimately maximize the use of the cabin bathroom door and chuck all the kid’s bits and bobs in the fabric baskets. It comes with four main baskets (each big enough for a pair of shoes plus additional smaller items) and top slots. 

“It is honestly the best thing I have ever bought and has revolutionized my storage issues when on cruises. It keeps the cabin free from clutter, is easy to fold away, and takes up hardly any room in the suitcase. It’s genius!” — Elaine Warren, founder and CEO of The Family Cruise Companion

Winsome Luggage Rack

Buy Now $45.01

“There are a few different products that can help make the most of your cabin space on a cruise. One option is to bring a luggage rack. This will free up floor space and can be easily packed away when not in use. It’s very easy to pack and set up, and will help to make your cruise more comfortable and organized.” — Rebecca Keller, head of Diversity, Health & Lifestyle at Debt Bombshell

Royce & Rocket Suitcase

Buy Now $595

“If you need to maximize space or stay organized in smaller spaces, I absolutely LOVE these suitcases by Royce & Rocket. Their innovative design makes staying organized a breeze whether you’re on a ship, in a hotel room, or just like things neat and tidy. The extra pockets allow for more packing, whether that be more clothes or souvenirs for friends and family.” — Allison Baxley, Renovating Life

For more cruising tips, check out:

• I’ve Been On 10 Cruises, Here Are 8 Things I Always Do And 2 Things I Never Do
• 8 Things I Wish I Knew Before Booking A Cruise During Hurricane Season
• 15 Reasons River Cruises Are Perfect For Retirees

I’ve been on 10 cruises and have four more booked for 2022 and 2023. I’ve cruised with my husband and kids and my husband and I have gone on cruises without kids. However you slice it, I think cruises are a great, relaxing way to vacation. 

Although there are differences between cruise lines, individual ships, and embarkation ports, I have a list of things I always do before and while on a cruise as well as some things I never do. Some of the things on my list of always and never stem from getting things wrong and being determined not to repeat my own mistakes and others are things that I find work for me as I’ve gotten into my cruise groove. 

Things I Always Do On A Cruise

1. Use The App

I download the cruise line’s app as soon as I know I’m going on a cruise. These are usually linked on the cruise line’s homepage. If not, they’re easily found in the App Store or Google Play Store. I take a minute to set up the app and link my reservation in advance of the cruise.

Every cruise line does things differently, but in general, you can begin your check-in process on the app and pre-book and manage onboard activities. When on board, you can use the app to see a map of the ship or your schedule. Some cruise line apps have a chat feature that allows you to chat with a customer service representative to solve issues.

2. Check The List Of Prohibited Items

Even if I think I could recite the list of prohibited items in my sleep, I have a quick look at the cruise line’s prohibited items before I start packing. The list of prohibited items is usually easy to find on the cruise line’s website. If you don’t see it, check the FAQ section or enter “prohibited items” in the search bar on the website. 

Some items may come as a surprise, especially for first-time cruisers. Things like baby monitors, clothes steamers, CBD products, and drones may be on your ship’s list of prohibited items.

3. Join A Cruise Facebook Group

There’s a very good chance the cruise you’ve booked has a Facebook group. These groups are unofficial and usually initiated by a seasoned cruiser to allow passengers to virtually meet and ask questions before embarkation. While I recommend you get essential information about your cruise from the cruise line or your travel agent and not take secondhand info as gospel, I like the camaraderie of the Facebook groups. If you’re looking to connect with cruisers that share your interest or to ask casual questions, like “How risque is the ‘Match Your Mate’ show?” then search for your cruise’s group on Facebook.

It’s easy to find these groups — just enter the name of your ship and the date of your sailing into Facebook’s search bar, i.e. Carnival Breeze January 5-10, 2023. You’ll typically have to answer a question about your booking, such as listing your stateroom number of one of the port stops. Since these are unofficial groups, there’s probably no way for the admins to verify that you’re a confirmed passenger. However, I’ve never seen anyone in a cruise group that caused me to doubt that they were an actual passenger. That said, be smart about the information you share online, and don’t be a keyboard warrior. 

4. Buy Travel Insurance

Whether you purchase a cruise protection plan through your cruise, a single-trip policy, or blanket travel insurance that covers any trip you take for a specified period, make sure you’ve got something in case plans go awry due to weather or any other reason. 

Whatever type of coverage you obtain, make sure you’re clear on your coverage. Read the fine print. Purchasing the cruise protection through your cruise line might not cover flights or hotel rooms at the port or cover your cruise if you decide to cancel, versus the cruise being canceled, delayed, or rerouted due to weather or other events. 

5. Pre-Book Activities

I recommend booking as many shipboard activities and shore excursions as far in advance as you can. Different cruise lines have different ways of doing things so do your research or talk to your travel agent to determine what you need to book in advance of your sailing and what you need to book once you’re on board.

Shipboard activities you can book in advance include spa treatments, shows, some dining, classes (cooking, cocktail making, fitness classes, and more), and other entertainment options. Most cruise lines operate on a tiered system, meaning passengers higher up in their loyalty program or a certain class of stateroom get the first crack at booking activities. No matter where you fall, make sure you are aware of when your window to book opens and what’s required to complete a booking (i.e. through an app, online, via email), and how you get confirmation. 

If you’re not able to book your choice of activity before you set sail, speak with someone as soon as you board the ship.

6. Print Documents

Even in this day and age of “everything is on the app” I still print most of my cruise documents, such as port arrival forms specific to the cruise line, cruise contracts, and any health documents the cruise lines are requiring. Boarding a cruise can mean dealing with port employees, cruise line employees, and immigration officials. While most of my cruise boarding experiences have been pretty seamless, there are a lot of wickets to go through and I like to make sure I have my documents at hand if I can’t find them on my phone. 

Pro Tip: Make sure you’re not packing important documents, such as passports, in your checked luggage. 

7. Get Cash

I usually prepay my gratuities or have them added to my stateroom bill so no cash has to change hands. On a cruise ship, it’s expected to tip your cabin steward and your dining room staff. If you purchase extra food and drinks or order room service, there will be an opportunity to add a gratuity to the bill. Cruises in general are pretty cashless. 

That said, I like to have small bills for unexpected gratuities, such as luggage porters or cruise line employees I didn’t expect to tip, such as someone rendering exceptional or unexpected service. Although cruise ships are cashless, cash tips are always accepted. 

You won’t typically find an ATM on board a ship and I don’t like to withdraw cash in foreign ports because I find I don’t get the best exchange rate. It’s difficult to get cash on a cruise if you find you need it, so I like to be prepared. 

Pro Tip: Make sure to notify your bank and credit card companies that your card may be used outside the United States to avoid getting a transaction flagged or denied. 

8. Walk My Luggage On And Off The Ship

If you consider yourself a light or minimal packer, you may find walking your luggage off and on the ship to be more convenient. Cruise lines have porters at the ports who will take your tagged luggage and deliver it to the ship (make sure you tip). The luggage will be delivered to your stateroom after the ship sets sail. I’ve had my luggage delivered almost immediately and I’ve also had my luggage delivered after 7:00 p.m. 

The reverse happens on disembarkation day, although most cruise lines require you to have your bags ready to be picked up the night before disembarkation. You’ll pick up your bags from a staging area after you leave the ship the next day. In my experience, the process works fairly smoothly, although it can feel chaotic, especially if your bag looks like everyone else’s bag. 

To avoid either scenario, pack what you need into a small roller board or backpack and walk your luggage on and off the ship. The minor downside is that you’ll have to keep your bags with you for a bit while you explore the ship on your first day. Staterooms aren’t usually ready as soon as you board the ship and you may have to wait a couple of hours until you can get in to drop off your bags but I’ve made it work. Not having to rely on someone else to bring my bag to me is worth having to drag my bag around the deck for a couple of hours. 

Pro Tip: Consider booking through a travel agent, especially if you’re new to cruising. Their services are usually free and any commission paid to them is paid by the cruise line when you complete your travel. You can often take advantage of specials or other perks that will save you money by using a travel agent, such as onboard credit.

Things I Never Do On A Cruise

1. Overpack

I’ve already mentioned small staterooms and the ease of breezing on and off the ship with a small bag and these are my primary reasons to avoid taking stuff I won’t need or use. I look at the weather (both in ports and where I’m getting on and off the ship at the start and end of the cruise) and the activities I’ll be doing. 

My best cruise packing tips are to minimize the number of shoes you take since shoes are generally heavy and bulky. Make sure to have extra swimwear if you’re going to be doing beach/pool activities. No one likes to put on a wet bathing suit. 

I mentioned above that I’ve generally found stateroom storage to be adequate. If you’re sharing your stateroom with other people and everyone overpacks, you’ll feel extra cramped. 

2. Arrive In Port On The Day Of The Cruise

Most cruises set sail at around 4-5:00 p.m., although that’s not an absolute. The boarding process typically opens about four hours before the ship is scheduled to leave. I’ve seen plenty of early morning flights that would get me to my cruise terminal on time. I live about three hours from the Port of Galveston so driving down first thing in the morning and hopping on board the ship should be entirely doable. 

But I never, ever do that. 

I always arrive the day before. No matter what. Now more than ever, flying is unpredictable. Flights get delayed or even canceled regularly. Also, while I’m not a “Let’s talk about what can go wrong” traveler, driving three hours on the day of a cruise is full of scenarios that could cause me to be late or miss my cruise, even if most of them are unlikely. I arrive the day before, get a room near the port, and relax knowing that transportation delays are not going to be a problem. 

For the first time in forever, the Disney Cruise Line has added a brand-new ship to its fleet. The 4,000-passenger Disney Wish is the cruise line’s first new ship in 10 years, and it was worth the wait. Disney Wish is filled with magical experiences, innovative technology, cinematic dining adventures, and immersive storytelling that brings much-loved Disney characters to life.

Joining the rest of Disney’s fleet, Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy, is Disney Cruise’s newest ship, the Disney Wish. This vacation experience is designed to please families and multigenerational groups as well as adults traveling without kids. This floating luxury resort is packed with boatloads of fun, superb family-friendly staterooms, and some royal suites. Disney Wish sails 3- and 4-night cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida to Nassau and Castaway Cay, Disney’s island in the Bahamas. Guests often combine these sailings with a few days at Walt Disney World to get the best Disney vacation on both land and sea.

I was invited by Disney Cruise Line to be their guest on the Disney Wish christening cruise. Several attractions and experiences still needed a little pixie dust to be fully ready, but we were able to sample nearly all of them during our 3-night sailing.

Here are my 10 favorite experiences on the new Disney Wish:

1. Making A Grand Entrance

There’s something special about stepping aboard the Disney Wish. The ship’s theme is “enchantment.” The magic comes alive when entering the dazzling fairytale-inspired Grand Hall. While boarding, a crew member announces your name to all those in the Grand Hall, and clapping ensues. While this occurs on every Disney Cruise Line ship, the Grand Hall’s opulent setting made me feel like I was being formally welcomed to Cinderella’s castle at sea.

The Grand Hall’s magnificent chandelier features a spectacular wishing star that comes alive at certain times through the wonders of technology. Children receive their own wishing wand upon boarding so they can make their first vacation wish when entering the Grand Hall. Make sure to return to the Grand Hall in the evening to experience the mesmerizing “Kiss Goodnight” during your Disney Wish cruise.

Pro Tip: Look for Disney princesses appearing on the balcony of the Grand Hall as you enter. Disney characters can often be seen in and around the Grand Hall during sailings. Check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for scheduled appearances. 

2. Feeling Like A Kid Again

The Disney Wish is an exceptional vacation destination for kids, teens, and adults who love staying connected with their inner child. Guests become immersed in a wonderland of familiar stories and beloved Disney characters. I always look forward to seeing the magic through kids’ eyes on a Disney cruise, and the Disney Wish kid’s and teen’s clubs are out of this world. Adults will be jealous, and kids won’t want to leave.

Disney’s Oceaneer Club

Disney’s Oceaneer Club is the best cruise ship area I’ve seen for children ages three to 12. The kids club features more extraordinarily well-themed areas than ever, including Fairytale Hall, Star Wars: Cargo Bay, Marvel Super Hero Academy, Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, and Mickey and Minnie Captain’s Deck. The attention to detail in these spaces is mind-blowing, particularly in Star Wars: Cargo Bay. Children can check in to Disney’s Oceaneer Club in the Grand Hall, then slide “down the rabbit hole” directly to their club on Deck 2.

Pro Tip: Adults can access Disney’s Oceaneer Club and the Oceaneer Club slide at the open house on embarkation day and during select Oceaneer Club open house events throughout the voyage. Ride the slide — your inner child will love it!

“It’s A Small World” Nursery

Plus Other Kids’ And Young Adult Areas

Kids of all ages have their special place on the Disney Wish. “It’s a small world” nursery caters to young cruisers ages six months to three years, while tweens and teens have their own hangouts. Edge is for tweens aged 11 to 14 and teens aged 14 to 17 have stylish Vibe. There’s also The Hideaway, a multi-purpose area that hosts events for young adults aged 18 to 20.

3. Riding AquaMouse

Disney calls AquaMouse its “first Disney attraction at sea,” and this first-of-its-kind water coaster delivers tons of family fun. As an avid lover of waterslides and coasters, AquaMouse was a must-do on my Disney Wish voyage. Based on The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse series, the ride includes 760 feet of tubes winding around the ship’s top deck, over 60 water features, special lighting effects, an entertaining cinematic show, and spectacular ocean views.

Guests board their two-seat ride raft and are conveyed through the lift hill tunnel while watching one of two new Disney animated short cartoons. Then, you’re off on a wild ride up around the ship’s upper decks, jetting up and down via speed blasters. It’s a cute ride — and you will certainly get wet. 

AquaMouse age and height requirements make the attraction accessible to many families with kids. The water ride is fun and adventurous without being too scary or overwhelming for younger kids. The Disney Wish family area also features six pools, plus a Toy Story Splash Zone for little ones.

Pro Tip: AquaMouse lines can be lengthy, so go first thing in the morning or during dinner seatings. If there are long lines, check out Chip ’n Dale’s Pool on Deck 14. It offers covered loungers and incredible views.

4. Adults-Only Restaurants

Palo Steakhouse

Palo Steakhouse is one of two exquisite adults-only specialty dining venues on Disney Wish. It’s an elegant Beauty and the Beast-inspired setting with wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows, cozy booths, and spectacular views. The service and cuisine are exceptional. Our meal at Palo Steakhouse was one of the best we’ve had on a cruise and included antipasti, Japanese A5 Wagyu beef, pan-seared salmon, and butternut squash agnolotti. The tiramisu and six-layer carrot cake are decadent and delicious.

Enchanté By Chef Arnaud Lallement

The ship’s second adults-only dining experience is Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement, a celebrated gourmet restaurant created by three-star Michelin French Chef Arnaud Lallement. 

Pro Tip: There’s an additional charge to dine at both restaurants. Guests must be 18 or older, and reservations should be made as far in advance as possible.

5. The Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party

Disney’s parks are famed for their spectacular nighttime events, so it’s no surprise this floating theme park at sea has an amazing celebration as well. The “Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party” is a brand-new version of Disney Cruise Line’s pirate-themed nighttime deck party featuring live rock ‘n’ roll music, stunts, amazing special effects, and even a fireworks show at sea.

Inspired by Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, the pirate night extravaganza features Captain Redd and her pirate band along with an appearance by Captain Jack Sparrow. Disney Cruise Line is the only cruise line that includes fireworks shows regularly on its voyages, and I always look forward to their dazzling displays.

Pro Tip: The fireworks launch over the Disney ship’s starboard side. We watched from Deck 12, and the views were incredible.

6. Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge   

I couldn’t wait to experience Disney Wish’s Star Wars-themed bar at sea, and the immersive experience lived up to the hype for me. Yes, there’s a $5,000 drink on the menu, but this venue is so much more. The lounge is designed to feel like a lavish starcruiser where guests can sip creative intergalactic concoctions while enjoying the panoramic vistas of galaxies far, far away. I was completely mesmerized watching the action-packed encounters and stunning views of places like Endor and Tatooine. The viewport’s scenes blur as the ship periodically “jumps” to a new location via hyperspace, and it’s hard to get bored.

The highly themed cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks here are great. Some of our favorites included the zero-proof Temple Twist, The Golden One from the Moons of Endor, Berken’s Flow, and The Chancellor — complete with an added bubble of cinnamon smoke.

Pro Tip: This sought-after experience is currently limited to 45 minutes. Guests can make reservations using the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app on embarkation day once they are on board. Families can access the lounge during the day, but the space converts to adults-only at 9 p.m.

7. Disney Wish’s Rotational Dining

Disney Wish offers three rotational specialty quality dining venues for guests, including the first and only Frozen and Marvel-inspired restaurants at sea. No surcharges are involved, and your wait staff moves dining rooms with you each night.

Worlds Of Marvel

Worlds of Marvel is an interactive cinematic delight featuring Avengers: Quantum Encounter starring Ant-Man and the Wasp. The dining experience is filled with mission-intensive storytelling, Marvel-inspired menu items, and character appearances that will keep both adults and kids engaged. Each table has a quantum core, and we had fun interacting with it to help save the day.

Pro Tip: It’s great to attend the Marvel Super Hero Academy open house to get the backstory for the Worlds of Marvel cinematic entertainment show. 

Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure

Celebrate the engagement of Queen Anna and Kristoff at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure. This entertaining dinner theater-type experience stars favorite characters from Disney’s blockbuster hit Frozen. Guests will enjoy the character interactions, live band, great food, and fantastic entertainers who bring the world of Frozen to life. The Nordic-style cuisine is excellent here, particularly the seafood.

1923

Disney Wish‘s third restaurant, 1923, offers a classy entertainment-free dining experience where the food is the star of the show. One half of the restaurant is dedicated to Walt Disney and the other to Roy Disney.

8. Adults-Only Areas

The Disney Wish was designed to cater to adults sailing without children as well as parents and grandparents traveling with kids. As a result, there are plenty of adult-only spaces spread across multiple decks, and the cocktail lounges are superb. My favorites were The Rose, Nightingale’s, and The Bayou, a stunning magnolia-canopied lounge inspired by Disney Animation Studios’ film The Princess and the Frog.

Additional memorable adults-only spots on the Disney Wish include the Quiet Cove’s aft-facing infinity pool, the Moana-inspired Cove Café, and the Senses Spa’s Rainforest experience featuring a brand-new outdoor oasis. Purchase rainforest passes as far in advance as possible.

Pro Tip: There’s live jazz music in the evenings at The Bayou and live piano music at Nightingale’s. If you want to have more time for evening entertainment, it might be best to choose the early dinner seating.

9. Enchanting New Shows

Disney Cruise Line’s entertainment is Broadway-caliber, and the Walt Disney Theatre’s immersive performances bring the magic to life. We saw previews of Disney The Little Mermaid and Disney Seas the Adventure, two brand-new shows making their debut on the Disney Wish. Both were outstanding. Guests will also be able to enjoy a reimagined adaptation of Disney’s Aladdin — A Musical Spectacular on future Disney Wish sailings.

Entertainment choices abound on the Disney Wish, including free first-run movie showings in the Never Land and Wonderland cinemas, shows and interactive features on the Grand Hall’s atrium stage, and programming in the new Luna entertainment hub. This wealth of indoor entertainment options will help keep families happy, even in inclement weather.

Pro Tip: Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in Disney Wish cinemas and the Walt Disney Theatre. Starting 30 minutes before show times, crew members are available at the Deck 3 entrance to the Walt Disney Theatre to assist guests to wheelchair-accessible seating.

10. Incredible, Interactive Games

Disney Uncharted Adventure

Disney Uncharted Adventure is a first-of-its-kind interactive game played through the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. We previewed this free immersive experience on our sailing, and it takes storytelling to a new level. Guests can create their own avatars then head out on themed quests throughout the ship. The multidimensional journey features augmented reality and special effects, unlocking hidden layers of magic around the ship. I loved being immersed in this adventure, and the technology is amazing.

Pro Tip: Disney Uncharted Adventure is a fantastic experience to play with family and friends. Families can play together by linking up to six mobile devices at once or team up by using just one or two devices at a time.

Hero Zone

More action-packed games are available in Disney Wish’s Hero Zone sports arena. Don’t miss running through The Incredibles-themed inflatable obstacle course, which is featured in the ship’s Incredi-Games experience. It’s lots of fun, and it’s not just for kids. Time slots are pre-announced, so check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to see when the obstacle course will be available.

Imagine this: a bespoke holiday experience set in one of the world’s most beautiful locations, where you, your family, and your friends can literally choose your own adventure. From cuisine to cocktails, kicking back to sightseeing and adventuring, you set the rules. An entire crew will be at your service at all times, and no ask is too big — or too small.

That’s the dreamy experience I recently had on the gorgeous Adriatic Sea. I was invited to spend 5 days on-board the Ohana, a $3 million super-yacht based in Croatia available for private charter. The exclusive experience isn’t just for the jet set anymore; turns out this sort of vacation is actually more attainable than ever. Here are my top takeaways about the luxe travel option, and why it might just be the perfect way to celebrate your next big special event!

Destination: Dalmatian Coast

Croatia is a stunner. With more than a thousand miles of coastline, the pristine Dinaric Alps, hundreds of islands, and sparkling-clear water, its natural beauty is immediately evident. Throw in a temperate climate, loads of culture and history tucked into picture-perfect towns, and some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met on my travels, and it’s not hard to see what makes this Balkan nation so very special.

Croatia’s no longer the hidden gem destination it was a dozen years ago. The jet-set and celebs routinely charter mega-yachts on the beautiful Dalmatian Coast, and locals described to me how summers often turn the otherwise idyllic islands into a frenzied free-for-all.

I was lucky enough to visit in shoulder season. The crush of summer crowds had dissipated, the vibe was laid-back, and the weather was still warm. A super-yacht cruise was the perfect way to explore the beautiful country.

The Small-Ship Experience

While I’ve cruised before, it has been on far larger ships; hitting the open sea on a yacht accommodating just 35 guests was a new experience. I was invited aboard Ohana by Goolets, a charter company based in neighboring Slovenia. The Goolets staff (the name is a wink to the gulet, a traditional wooden sailing vessel) works with each client individually to assess their interests and preferences. They then recommend a yacht from their preferred fleet and handle everything else. From building out the menu and bar to arranging activities, itineraries, and transfers, it all adds up to a customized, picture-perfect vacation.

“Attention to detail is what makes the difference,” Goolets founder Mitja Mirtič explained.

“When demands are made, they are expected to be fulfilled in an ‘over-the-top’ fashion. There is no room for mistakes.” 

Upon embarking, I immediately felt at ease. The small but attentive crew warmly welcomed me with cocktails as my luggage was whisked away to my cabin. I met our stewards, deckhands, captain, and chefs; explored the 160-foot yacht; and settled into what would be my home for the next 5 days.

While I had a general sense of the itinerary, I’d not visited Croatia before, so my approach was simple: embrace it all!

From Culture Vulture To Water Baby

We left the gorgeous port city of Split and headed to three islands: first Brač and Hvar, then Korčula. Each was quite different; all were stunning and historic. While on Brač, I was able to stroll down to the famous horn-shaped Zlatni Rat and sunned on the pebbled, pristine beach. I wandered the town of Bol and sampled some lovely Croatian vintages at Stina Winery. On Hvar, I hiked up to its historic fort and marveled at centuries-old churches and squares.

Korčula’s walled city was an absolute gem, with its cobblestone streets, chapels, city museum, and belltower with an extraordinary view. As we headed back north, Makarska and Omiš were also explore-worthy stops. With Venetian, Ottoman, and Hapsburg influences all still felt in Croatia, there was plenty to experience at every port of call.

We also had time to enjoy the Adriatic, with swim stops each day. There were water toys — from inflatables and paddleboards to kayaks and even a wave runner. When I was ready to warm up, the upper deck hot tub fit the bill. And of course, the crew had guests covered with snacks, beverages, and extra towels.

The private charter experience allowed me to have the best of both worlds: I was able to learn about the history and culture of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast while also kicking back and enjoying the sun and water. It was perfect, thanks to the careful planning of the staff and crew.

A Warm, Family Feel

When I mentioned my upcoming Croatia adventure to friends, many jokingly asked if I’d be sailing on a disgraced oligarch’s super-yacht.

In a word, nope. As it turns out, Ohana is a family affair.

The Croatian tradition of sailing has been strong for generations. And with the destination now teeming with tourists, those traditions are more important than ever. Case in point: Ohana’s captain Josip Šerka also owns the super-yacht. The pride he took in her — and his crew’s performance — was evident. The level of service I experienced on-board wasn’t fussy or too formal. Rather, it was comprehensive and comfortable.

“These ships are not only large and super spacious with perfect services,” Mirtič told me. “They also have souls, and you can almost feel the energy and effort that was built into them.”

That soul was evident after dinner one evening. Captain Josip presented one of the youngest members of our sailing group with a cake, blazing with birthday candles. It was a sweet way to go the extra mile.

Not Exactly Below Deck — And That’s A Good Thing!

Many of us are familiar with the reality show Below Deck. The hit Bravo TV series takes viewers inside all of the behind-the-scenes angst involved with a yacht charter from the crew’s perspective. I watched a few episodes, with dread, prior to my trip. The last thing I wanted was drama of any sort.

Thankfully, there was none to be had.

Captain Josip admitted there have been a few eyebrow-raising requests of Ohana’s crew in past sailings, but he explained each was handled discreetly, effectively, and to the guests’ satisfaction. I’m glad our sailing group was more interested in kicking back than partying hard or being obnoxious.

A Bit Too Spoiled

During our 5 days at sea, I ate every meal on-board, with local seafood, hand-crafted pastas, and beautiful Croatian wine complimenting each dish. It was all delicious, but quite filling. I wanted to work some of it off and brought gear to do just that.

However, Ohana didn’t have a gym on-board, which meant no running. First world problem? Absolutely, but I did miss getting my miles in!

That situation will soon be remedied. While lovely and just 3 years old, Ohana is already getting a glow-up. This off-season, she’s undergoing renovations recommended by Goolets. Lower-deck cabins will be converted to add a theater and a children’s playroom. An outdoor gym space is also planned, as is a refresh of the outdoor dining space. These tweaks will further elevate an already-terrific experience.

My One Regret

Ohana set sail from Split and I booked two extra nights there prior to boarding the yacht so I could get to know the city. The islands we visited were gorgeous as well. The only thing missing? Dubrovnik, the gem widely considered one of the most gorgeous towns on the Dalmatian Coast.

In a typical charter experience, this wouldn’t have been an issue. It could have been mentioned to the crew and a stop there would have been scheduled. However, I’m still kicking myself for not factoring in more time to visit on my own. It was poor planning on my part; certainly not the fault of my gracious hosts.

On the bright side, it gives me the perfect reason to return to Croatia!

You Don’t Have To Be A Multi-Millionaire To Vacation Like This

Chartering the Ohana starts at about $100,000. That includes a mandatory advance provisioning allowance covering food, drink, and port taxes.

Crunch the numbers and this exclusive travel experience is now within reach. After her refit, Ohana will sleep 30 people. That’s on par, per person, with a week-long cruise on leading lines… one where you don’t get to choose your own adventure with your family or closest friends.

The vessels in Goolet’s fleet aren’t billionaire’s boats. You won’t find helipads, beach clubs, or huge swimming pools on-board. But their super-yachts are a lovely and affordable option absolutely worth considering for a big birthday, anniversary, or other special events (especially if you want to celebrate in one of the most gorgeous corners of the planet).

The new approach — balancing between traveling on a super-yacht and being mindful of budget — has proved to be a popular one. Mirtič says Ohana is nearly completely booked for next season and he expects interest to remain high.

“Do the ships have the same ‘glitz’ as mega-yachts that charter for [around $819,000] a week? Of course not,” he says. “Are people willing to pay [around $102,400] to charter a 50-meter, 10-plus-cabin vessel with super-yacht services? Heck yes!”

For more small-ship cruise experiences, check out these articles:

• 5 Best Small Ship Cruise Lines
• 3 Fabulous Small Ship Cruises To Try In Ontario, Canada 
• My 5 Favorite Small-Ship River And Ocean Cruises

I grew up watching Love Boat, an American television show that was on every Saturday night for 10 years. I still remember the names of all the characters — Doc, Julie, Gopher, and Isaac — but I mostly remember Captain Stubing. And don’t even get me started on singing the song. So imagine my delight when I had the chance to meet a real-life sea captain; this time named Captain Angelos Vassilakos.

My husband, Jason, and I were aboard the Celestyal Crystal for 7 days cruising the Aegean and exploring the Greek Islands. I had the chance to meet the captain on the bridge and asked him to share his tips for cruising the islands. A few days later, we had dinner and continued the conversation.

To set the scene, Captain Vassilakos has spent his entire 35-year career on the sea. He started working on cargo ships, then served in the Hellenic (Greek) Navy, and finally moved into the cruise industry. He’s a proud Greek citizen and resides with his wife and family in a small seaside town.

1. Choose A Small Ship That Can Visit Smaller Islands

The trend in cruising has leaned toward larger ships, some accommodating over 5,000 passengers. These mega-ships have added basketball courts, climbing walls, and water parks to attract a wide audience. During our recent cruise, we sailed past a few of these extra-large ships and I admit that those extra amenities looked intriguing. 

But on the flip side, as Captain Vassilakos pointed out, larger ships aren’t allowed to visit smaller islands — and there are hundreds of small islands in Greece. All cruise ships will visit the wildly popular islands of Mykonos and Santorini, but smaller gems like Milos, Patmos, Kavala, and Volos can only be enjoyed with a smaller ship.

Captain Vassilakos recommends ships no longer than 220 meters (about 722 feet). Our ship, the Celestyal Crystal, was just 160 meters (525 feet), so it could easily reach many of the smaller islands in the Aegean.

Pro Tip: If you have the chance to cruise the Greek Islands, I highly recommend an itinerary that includes Milos. This is the place where the famous Venus de Milo statue was discovered in 1820. And because it isn’t on the itineraries of larger ships, there are far fewer tourists than on the better-known islands.

2. Eat As Much Local Food As Possible

The Celestyal chefs offer Greek specialties for all meals. One night, I was fortunate to dine on a generous portion of moussaka, a traditional Greek eggplant casserole. Another night, I opted for the sweet and sticky baklava for dessert. And not a day went by that I didn’t enjoy a Greek salad. 

But the ship can’t possibly offer specialties from all the different ports, so Captain Vassilakos encourages passengers to seek out some of these hyper-local dishes while on land. One of his personal favorites is a cheese pie called bougatsa, available only in Thessaloniki.

Jason and I took the captain’s advice to heart. During our excursion in Milos, our guide recommended we try the island’s specialty — karpouzopita (watermelon pie). Never one to pass up dessert, Jason and I immediately headed for the local bakery to try this pie. It was delicious. 

While exploring Mykonos, we popped into the oldest bakery on the island, Gioras, and sampled local versions of cheese, spinach, and potato pie — all tasty.

Pro Tip: If you’re a wine lover like me, I’ll add to the captain’s tip and recommend that you try all the local wine. There are many grape varieties in this region that I had never tried but found that I really enjoyed. I was also pleasantly surprised to find wine throughout Greece to be very affordable.

3. Let The Cruise Line Help You Enjoy The On-Board Food

Much of the food served during our cruise was Greek, a cuisine I’ve long loved. But like any international cuisine, it has ingredients we may not be used to or aware of compared to our home foods. To help passengers best enjoy the Greek food served on the ship — and stay healthy — the captain recommends getting in touch with the cruise line prior to your departure to notify them of any dietary restrictions or allergies. They are more than happy to accommodate all types of diets and want passengers to thoroughly enjoy local cuisine.

Pro Tip: I enjoy a pescatarian diet. Fortunately, Greek cuisine is well-suited for anyone who prefers this. The range of dips, salads, and fresh seafood is not only delicious but also very healthy.

4. Learn All You Can About Greek Culture

The history, language, and culture of Greece have had considerable influence on the rest of the world. Captain Vassilakos encourages all of his passengers — and anyone cruising through the Greek Islands — to take the time to learn more about his country. Fortunately, this process can begin right on the ship.

On the first day of our cruise, a short class was offered to passengers who wanted to learn common words and phrases in Greek. Before our first excursion to the ancient city of Ephesus, we attended a lecture about these ruins. A few days later, I attended another lecture about olive oil, which was originally cultivated on the Greek Island of Crete 3,500 years ago. 

In between, there was a cooking demonstration, Greek dance lessons, and another lecture about Santorini. All of these learning opportunities augmented our experiences on the islands, so I couldn’t agree more with the captain. Take advantage of them.

5. See As Much As Possible On Each Island

I was constantly in awe of the layers of history we saw during all of our shore excursions and have never seen a place with such a density of ruins and archeological sites. It’s for this reason that Captain Vassilakos recommends seeing as much as you can while visiting each port. 

Do some research before your cruise and decide what sites interest you and how best to see them. At times, these sites may be within walking distance of the ship in port. We opted to skip a tour in Mykonos since the famous town of Chora and its centuries-old windmills were easy to walk to. 

But in some ports, the top sites aren’t nearby, so an organized tour will be the best option. One of the highlights of our cruise was a tour of the Acropolis of Lindos which is a 45-minute drive from the port.

Pro Tip: Much of our time on the Greek Islands involved walking over uneven, slick surfaces as well as navigating slopes. If you have any mobility concerns, be sure to check in with the staff at the excursions desk for guidance on the best tours or sites for you.

6. Consider A Cabin With An Ocean View

One of the many attractions of cruising is affordability. With inclusive food and beverages and nightly entertainment, it’s a great way to know exactly what your trip will cost. And for people really looking to save, reserving an inside cabin (one without a window) can be perfect.

However, Captain Vassilakos encourages guests to think carefully about their cabin choice. Some people regret not having a window to watch the ship sail between the islands, especially on longer itineraries. While an ocean view is nice on any cruise, the Greek Islands are exceptionally beautiful, and the joy of seeing them from your cabin as you wake in the morning can’t be overstated.

Oceanview suites with balconies are the priciest accommodations on the ship and inside cabins are the most affordable. We had the in-between option, an oceanview room, which I highly recommend, and found the pricing to be reasonable, especially considering how much is included.

7. Don’t Forget To Bring Nice Clothes For The Gala Night

Most cruise lines, including Celestyal, offer a gala night — a designated evening when guests are encouraged to dress up. This is typically cocktail dresses for women and a suit jacket for men. The captain says that guests who bring only casual clothes may find themselves sitting awkwardly in the dining room in shorts and flip-flops surrounded by elegantly clothed passengers.

For the gala night on our ship, the captain and his senior crew — all dressed in their finest attire — were introduced to all the passengers. It was fun to learn where each of the crew members came from and to hear that most of them are native to Greece.

Our gala night began after departing the island of Rhodes on our way to Crete. It was a lovely scene as guests dressed for the evening gathered on the decks enjoying drinks and recounting stories from their day. You could feel the excitement after a great day of excursions and anticipation for more to come.

8. Don’t Leave Home Without This One Accessory

When I asked the captain about recommendations for what to pack on a Greek Islands cruise, he surprised me with the answer, “A good watch,” and then laughed. He understands that as passengers are strolling through the streets of Mykonos or admiring the views from Santorini, it’s easy to lose track of time. He’s often heard guests talk about lingering a little longer over a meal while dining next to the ocean. He’s passionate about his home country and understands these sentiments, but whenever someone is running late, it leaves him in a dilemma: leave that passenger behind or get to the next destination late. Neither is a good option.

Be sure to bring either a good watch or check your cell phone, but be courteous to the many other passengers who are on board and ready to set sail for a new island.

Pro Tip: If you will be relying on a cell phone for time, be sure it is reflecting the local time. While this should happen automatically, I have occasionally found glitches with our phones. I’d hate for this to happen and find out that the ship sailed without us.

Explore the beauty of the Greek Islands in articles like these:

• My 7 Favorite Experiences Cruising The Greek Islands
• Why These 6 Beautiful Greek Islands Are My Favorite In Greece
• 17 Reasons Why Cruising The Greek Islands Is My Favorite Way To Island Hop

With the launch of Emerald Azzurra, river cruise operator Emerald Cruises made an impressive debut on the oceans. This 100-passenger beauty is not your typical cruise ship, either. I’d call it more of a luxury superyacht, with a beautiful profile and intimate, elegant spaces on board — plus service that shines.

When you take a cruise on Emerald Azzurra, you just might feel like a member of the jet-set crowd cruising the Mediterranean with a big gathering of your newest friends. I know this because I was invited onboard and hosted by Emerald Cruises during a weeklong sailing in the Western Med that took us all around charming small port towns in Italy. 

Here is a batch of my best experiences aboard the new Emerald Azzurra. 

1. Charming Port Stops

Port stops on our voyage included the quaint towns of Monopoli and Otranto in the southern region of Italy called Puglia (you know it as the heel of the “boot”). We also visited Crotone and Giardini Naxos in the Taormina region of Sicily, as well as Amalfi and Sorrento on Italy’s western coast, before disembarking in Civitavecchia in the Metropolitan City of Rome.

We were always the only cruise ship in the ports we visited, and our small group of about 95 allowed us to blend in with the locals seamlessly. 

These places offer a wonderful mix of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as cathedrals, museums, and other points of interest that you can thoroughly enjoy without feeling like part of a herd coming through town. 

Monopoli

The ship docks at ports or anchors offshore close to historic old towns and pretty marinas. 

My wife Colleen and I took a bike ride in Monopoli (the ship carries a fleet of e-bikes) and pedaled through town to a pretty beach filled with residents swimming and having family picnics on a Sunday.

Otranto

We delighted walking the maze-like alleyways of Otranto. This seaside community on the Salento Peninsula is home to a pretty marina and a couple of historic attractions: the 15th-century Aragonese Castle and 11th-century Otranto Cathedral.

Crotone

Crotone offered a chance to shop with the chef. Azzurra Executive Chef Li and a couple of team members took our small group into the market area, and it was a joy to see the process of picking fresh ingredients and haggling over prices.  

The haul of squid, clams, mussels, octopus, chilis, and cheeses was brought back to the ship, and just a couple hours later, we sampled what the chef and the rest of the galley team were able to put together using exotic items like squash blossoms (made into a delicious, crispy fried tempura filled with dill and ricotta) and water pumpkin. 

This is how it went for the entire voyage, with additional stops in Taormina, Amalfi, and Sorrento bringing daily delights like a “Godfather Tour,” adventure kayaking, and a city tour and gelato tasting in each destination.

Pro Tip: It’s easy to load your schedule with formal shore excursions, booked through the ship or independently, but give yourself a break and leave a day or two open. You’ll appreciate a more casual pace, and you’ll have time to walk through some great old town centers. 

2. Delicious Restaurants

Emerald Azzurra offers two restaurants: La Cucina and Agua Cafe.

La Cucina

La Cucina is the main restaurant. It serves breakfast and lunch buffet style, then dinner with open seating and a menu featuring meals made with regional ingredients and a selection of daily favorites. 

Aqua Cafe

We favored having lunch each day outside at the Aqua Cafe up on Deck 6, right by the pool. Aqua Cafe is a small eatery that seats about 30 people in comfy chairs and banquettes. Having a meal in the fresh air is fantastic and really enhances the fact that this is a yacht and not a cruise ship. Our captain, Julian Burgess, was always proud to point that out as we interacted with the incredibly engaging and highly visible master of the vessel all week. 

Aqua Cafe is a casual eatery that serves a continental breakfast for early risers and offers a nice menu with a fantastic array of comfort foods for lunch. 

This is where you can order one of the creative flatbreads topped with meats, veggies, cheeses, and even seasonal fruits. The offerings also include juicy gourmet burgers or hot dogs with crisp fries. 

The eatery is open throughout the afternoon, and the selection of sandwiches, salads, and fruit cups was always enticing. The best, for me, though, were the chewy gourmet cookies (chocolate chip, white chocolate chunk, oatmeal raisin, and peanut butter), rich brownies, creamy gelatos, and decadent macarons (six varieties!). 

Pro Tip: Can’t decide on what to order for dinner? Emerald Azzurra encourages sharing midmeal courses — typically risotto or pasta. They even have gluten-free options.  

3. Next-Level Shore Excursions 

While Emerald Azzurra features several included shore excursions during your voyages. Several stops featured a nice city tour, and we joined one of these in Sorrento that included a walk around the new and old districts with our friendly guide, Patty. Plus, we got to attend a gelato demonstration and tasting at Gelateria David to close out the tour. The things they can do with lemons in this region of the world are amazing.

Premium Offerings

I liked leveling up my cruise experience with the premium DiscoverMORE options.  

They cost $150 or more. We picked a kayaking expedition around Amalfi, and several of our fellow cruisers enjoyed small-group visits to spots like Pompeii, Positano, and Capri. 

4. Infrared Sauna & Elements Spa

All passengers on Emerald Azzurra are given access to the spa facility’s relaxing infrared sauna room. This is a nice perk and a great way to relax after a busy day ashore. The sauna uses red-light therapy, and it has five seats that allow the heat to warm up your spine and emanate through your body to ease tension. 

Spa manager Ozay and his team take wonderful care of cruisers, preparing herbal teas and waters to enjoy in the facility. 

The ship also offers a range of massages, such as hot stone and deep-tissue treatments, as well as facials. You can also stop by the salon for haircuts, styling, manicures, and pedicures.  

The wellness area is so nice that we made sure to schedule time there daily, often waking up to join Mahesh, who taught a morning yoga class, or hitting the attached fitness center for a workout (the gym has treadmills, a rowing machine, an elliptical, and weights). Then, we would return at the end of the day for time in the infrared sauna to relax and ease our muscles before getting ready for dinner and the rest of the evening. 

5. E-Bikes And Water Toys

E-Bikes

The ship carries electric bikes that cruisers can use in port. They even get them ashore at destinations that require taking smaller boats in while the ship is anchored offshore. We biked in Monopoli to go to Porto Paradiso, a popular beach in a beautiful cove. At Giardini Naxos, we took a challenging ride up to Taormina (thank goodness for the e-assist feature).

Water Toys

When Emerald Azzurra anchors offshore at picturesque destinations, the marina is open and all the toys are put out in the water. We had a blast using the trampoline, laying on the floating mats, tooling around in the kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, and even trying out Seabobs for the first time. These are a kind of water scooter that propels you through the water — and even below it — like a dolphin. 

Pro Tip: The marina platform itself is a destination. When it’s open, it serves as a sundeck, where you can chill waterside, taking a dip in the sea as the need arises. 

6. Relaxing Outdoor Spaces 

Emerald Azzurra offers such lovely outdoor spaces that the ship truly feels like an intimate yacht chartered by a group of friends. We found ourselves spending hours outside during the day, having lunch at Aqua Cafe on Deck 6, which also features a large infinity pool with huge floating pillows for ultimate relaxation. 

I caught several of my fellow cruisers napping on the loungers and day beds that encircle the pool area. The Sky Deck one level up at the very top of the ship also has welcoming seating with incredible views over the seas. This is where you find the big hot tub, the Sky Bar, and more inviting seating areas ideal for lazing about as you sail with new friends. 

The Observation Lounge on Deck 4 is a quiet space with 270-degree views through the huge windows. The space also opens up to an outer deck area at the bow. Inside, you can enjoy a game of chess or read from the library of books and magazines.   

The deck outside is the location for yoga classes led by members of the spa team. We joined instructor Mahesh there for a wonderful session as the sun rose over Monopoli. 

With all of this, Emerald Azzurra delivers on the promise of that luxurious yacht life you’ve always wanted to enjoy.

My husband Dean and I have never found large-ship cruising appealing; we prefer more intimate, personal travel experiences. In 1993, we took our first cruise along Alaska’s Inside Passage from Ketchikan to Juneau on a small ship of about 85 passengers.

There was a long pause (it’s called kids)… and then in 2016, we took a Rhine River Cruise on a Viking longship (about 200 passengers). After that, we were curious about Viking’s “ocean cruise” category so we decided to try it. We signed up for their Iconic Western Mediterranean tour, which started in Civitavecchia, Italy — about 50 miles northwest of Rome — and cruised along the Mediterranean shoreline to Barcelona. We’d been to northeastern Italy on a biking trip and to France along the Rhine, but we hadn’t seen their Mediterranean borders. Monaco and Spain were entirely new to us.

This cruise offered the luxury and service of Viking but a limited passenger count (about 1,000). We liked the fact that the ship sailed overnight, so no “all-day sailing” days. Plus, there was just something idyllic about a Mediterranean cruise.

Here are some of the things I loved about it.

1. Watching Ships In Livorno Harbor

Livorno, Italy

Livorno is the springboard to Pisa, Florence, and Tuscany. We’re hearty Minnesotans, so mid-November temperatures of 60s felt great to us. Because other passengers found it cold, we often had the ship’s spacious deck to ourselves. From the deck, we could see freighters at work along with fishermen on shore and mountains in the distance, covered in white marble (Carrara quarries are nearby.) It was fascinating to observe it all.

I don’t know the story behind these sightings, but it’s not every day you see a Looney Tunes ship with Tweety Bird and Sylvester painted on it. We also saw superhero and Batman ships.

2. A Day In Tuscany

San Gimignano, Italy

We purchased an optional excursion called “A Day in Tuscany.” After a 90-minute bus ride, we toured San Gimignano, a small, walled Tuscan village known for medieval architecture and old churches with artistic frescos.

Then, onto San Donato — a fatorria, or farm — for lunch. The owner spoke to us about the farm’s vineyards, meats, and olives, and said she is happiest when her guests fully enjoy the buffet. We complied, feasting on meats, cheeses, honey, spelt and green salads, olives, peppers, wine-marinated onions, crusty breads, and red and white wine. I could eat like this all day, every day.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check the physical requirements of Viking’s excursions, available on the trip page and sorted by day and port.

3. The Baptistry

Pisa, Italy

Viking included a walking tour of the Square of Miracles, including the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery. Some think the Leaning Tower of Pisa is overrated, but I liked seeing this icon.

The highlight for me was the Baptistry, where great timing meant we saw what they call a guardian stand behind a statue, cup her hands, and sing/chant in Italian. It reverberated to the domed ceiling and filled the space. What a sound!

Pro Tip: “Follow the lollipop.” On a walking tour, Viking guides use a red, numbered, round sign (fondly called a lollipop) to help passengers locate the right tour group.

4. Infinity Pool

Monte Carlo, Monaco

A pinnacle experience for us was lounging in the infinity pool on the deck of the ship off the coast of Monaco. Once again, the deck was deserted except for us and a mother-daughter pair, soaking in these spectacular views. What a life!

5. Walking Tour Of Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo, Monaco

This was the only port where we anchored in the harbor and shuttled in small boats, called tenders, to shore. Our 90-minute walking tour included sculptured gardens, medieval churches, the Prince’s Palace, and stunning views of the Maritime Alps, ending with free time in the city square. This is a gorgeous place.

6. Walking Tour Of Marseille

Marseille, France

Marseille is rich in history, with two 17th-century fortresses reigning over the harbor called Old Port. One of the most striking sights on our bus tour was the popular Notre-Dame de la Garde (Our Lady of the Guard), a Catholic Basilica set high on a hill. I loved how our guide emphasized that people in Marseille pride themselves on doing things their own way. She’d say something rather outlandish and then say, “That’s how we do it in Marseille!”

7. The Grande Roue De Marseille

Marseille, France

I loved seeing the Ferris wheel called The Grande Roue de Marseille — unforgettable and distinctive! It opened to the public in 2009 and added so much charm to the cityscape.

8. Marseille Christmas Market

Marseille, France

In our free time, we enjoyed browsing carved figurines, unique décor, household items, hand-crafted candles, spices, scarves, and jewelry at the Marseille Christmas market. They also had a kiddie area with statues of Santa and reindeer.

Pro Tip: The market had controlled access with armed officers, a normal precaution due to terrorist attacks at European markets at the time. For us, it was benign: we walked through a body scanner and an officer checked my purse.

9. Parc National Des Calanques Boat Tour

Cassis, France

We paid extra for an excursion and toured Cassis, the gateway to Calanques National Park. Cassis is a quaint little fishing village, complete with a hilltop castle overlooking the harbor. The calanques are “rock fingers” jutting off the coastline for miles. Our boat tour explored the inlets, interesting and ragged along the water. Beneath the rocks, hidden from our view, the guide told us there were caves and underground rivers.

Pro Tip: The castle overlooking Cassis is a hotel, and you can book one of their suites.

10. Panoramic Views Of Sète

Sète, France

In the category of “you win some, you lose some,” we “won” in Sète. It’s my favorite example of waking up to a panoramic scene. Rooms facing the docked side of the ship saw streets and industry, but our stateroom was on the right side this time. Since we had sailed overnight, in the morning I opened the drapes of our stateroom to the jaw-dropping curve of the city, the harbor, and the mountains — beauty everywhere.

11. Walking Tour Of Sète

Sète, France

Sète earned the nickname “Venice of the Mediterranean” because of canals that link the Mediterranean to an enclosed saltwater lagoon. It has the largest fishing fleet on the French Mediterranean and is famous for seafood. As we finished our tour, I loved seeing industry in action: two fishermen fixing their nets at the end of another day.

12. Basilica De La Sagrada Familia

Barcelona, Spain

The highlight of the walking tour of Barcelona was the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia (Church of the Holy Family). Local Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí designed this beauty. When we were there it was under construction, so we walked around it but couldn’t go inside. Our guide was well-versed in the exterior exquisite detail — it was a feast for the eyes.

13. The Beautiful, Well-Appointed Ship

If you’ve toured with Viking, you know their ships are beautiful. We loved our stateroom, the atrium, and the dining areas. So much function, design, décor, and so many little touches everywhere.

14. The Delicious Food And Daily Gelato

The food on the ship was over the top. Every kind and variety was available, including international flavors, great seafood, and gelato made daily on the ship. Free wine and beer were offered with lunch and dinner.

Do walking excursions offset calories consumed? No, not even close.

Bonus: The Pyrenees On The Flight Home

The cruise ended but the delights did not. As we left Barcelona, we flew over the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural border between France and Spain. I’ve heard of them, but I’d never been to this part of the world. What a surprise to look out the plane and see these majestic mountains.

There’s a lot to love about this cruise. I didn’t even touch on the topics of live violin and piano players in the ship’s atrium, the theater shows (Beatles, anyone?), trivia, the fascinating people we met, or the myriad of quiet places on the ship to settle in with coffee and a good book or conversation.

The Mediterranean is breathtaking, and these destinations showcase her beauty all along the way. When you go, I’m sure you’ll find many things to love about this iconic Western Mediterranean cruise.

My UnCruise Adventure was a seven-night journey titled “Rivers of Adventure and Wine.” We cruised the Columbia and Snake Rivers, beginning and ending the trip in Portland, Oregon. The Columbia River is the largest in the Pacific Northwest. Our journey took us along the Columbia River National Scenic Area which borders Oregon and Washington. The Columbia River Gorge changes in character from verdant forests, sheer cliffs, and numerous waterfalls to high desert plateaus.

UnCruise Adventures was one of the first companies to embrace small-ship cruising. Last year, they celebrated their 25th anniversary as a leader in small-boat, small-group, and small-footprint cruising. UnCruise Adventures has received numerous awards including “Best Small Ship Adventure,” Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, and Travel + Leisure Awards.

Here are 12 reasons I loved the UnCruise Adventure in the Pacific Northwest. UnCruise Adventures sponsored my trip. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

1. All-Inclusive Adventures

I loved that there were no hidden charges aboard an UnCruise Adventure. Everything is included: Beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), adventures, adventure gear, transfers, gourmet meals, and baggage handling are all included in the price of the journey. The saying is, “you can put your wallet away until the end.”

2. Wilderness Legacy

I was delighted with our small ship, the Wilderness Legacy, especially in terms of size and amenities. Wilderness Legacy is the largest ship in the fleet — with 43 cabins and a maximum of 86 guests. The small number of guests is perfect for mixing and mingling. 

Four decks welcome you. On the fourth deck, two hot tubs welcome guests, there is ample room for sunning, and the highest of the viewing areas wraps around the bow. Indeed, the ship boasts the most spacious viewing decks of the entire fleet. The Upper Deck has the middle bow viewing area. It was also where my cabin was located. The lounge deck on the second floor has a beautiful and spacious lounge and bar, the largest of the viewing areas on the Wilderness Legacy and, indeed, the largest in the entire fleet. 

The well-stocked bar and comfortable living room seating invite you to enjoy any time of day. Each window ledge has a pair of binoculars ready to use for your viewing pleasure. The lounge has several small libraries, a video library, games, and puzzles. Musical instruments available include a piano, inviting guests to “tinkle the keys.” The Wilderness Legacy is the only UnCruise ship with an elevator reaching decks one to three. The elevator only goes to deck three. Although there is an elevator onboard, guests need to be able to manage a gangway and step in and out of skiffs.

Click here for a virtual tour of the Wilderness Legacy.

3. Multiple Activities Daily

Daily on UnCruise Adventures, there are a variety of levels of activities. Whether you choose to be very active, slightly active, or laid-back is up to you. Activities offered include hiking, kayaking, exploring, white water rafting, museum/historical visits, visits to local wineries, onboard wine tastings, and fascinating history and geography talks. Guests may also watch channel five for destination videos and channel four for photos from the day.

There were photographers at each activity to capture memories for the guest. We loved seeing ourselves and our new friends in all the photos! This wide choice of activities is excellent for generational travel and for traveling with a friend or partner who likes different activities than you. After spending a wonderful day of adventure, consider enjoying Mother Nature’s night shows when the ship is anchored in rural areas. Away from the light pollution of a nearby town or city and on a clear night, the star show is a real treat.

4. Delicious Food 

Each evening, there are three choices of entrees: Seafood, beef, and vegetarian. Not only is the cuisine delicious, but a lot is locally sourced. My favorites include herb-crusted rack of lamb with chimichurri, crab cakes with red pepper aioli, and sea-crusted scallops with brown butter. Save room for decadent desserts like bourbon-caramel cake trifle and kahlúa chocolate cake. Meal times were special on my UnCruise Adventure.

5. Curated Wine Pairings

I particularly enjoyed the wine pairings at lunch and dinner. Every course had its specialty wine, and the sommelier explained each. Over our seven-night trips, we had the opportunity to try 53 different wines. Some were local and regional; others were national and international wines. 

I also appreciated receiving the menu and wine list at the end of the adventure. Each course is identified along with the wine pairing.

6. Educational Wine Talks

Our great sommelier, Julie, began her series with “Introduction To Pacific Northwest Wine Making,” followed by several wine talks and tastings. We learned a lot at the “Science of Taste Comparative Tasting” and had lots of fun at the “Junk Food Pairing” section. Who would have thought of pairing skittles with a sauvignon blanc or pairing Reese’s peanut butter cups with a port?

7. Six O’Clock News 

Daily, we received a “six-o’clock news” brief featuring information on the evening talk and happenings the next day. Afterward, we signed up for the following day’s activities. 

8. Sustainability Practices 

UnCruise Adventures has long been recognized for its sustainability practices. Refillable water bottles and “reef-safe” sunscreen are available for all. Food waste onboard is reduced by having guests order the main courses the night before. Cleaning products are environmentally safe and water is conserved whenever possible.

9. Personal Touches 

A sense of community is immediately established on an UnCruise Adventure. The staff and crew always greeted me by name wherever we met on board. 

The crew encourages and helps one to try new activities. Guest to crew ratio is 3:1. The team is knowledgeable and shares that information throughout the journey. They exhibit outstanding guest service skills. We were greeted each time we returned on board.

In the lounge, I appreciated the two binders of crew names and guest names to further the small ship community feeling. During the last evening, we celebrated with a slide show presentation in the lounge. Later, we all received the slide show as a memento. Airport pickup and a shuttle back were the most welcome touches. Binoculars are included in each room.

10. Traversing The Locks

The Columbia and Snake Rivers, as well as full of natural beauty, are important transportation corridors in the Pacific Northwest. With more than 160 hydroelectric projects and 18 main-stream dams, there is plenty of action along the cruise. One of the most exciting ventures is traversing the locks. We transited six locks. Four are on the Columbia River: Bonneville Dam, The Dalles Dam, John Day Dam, and McNary Dam. On the Snake River, we passed through two locks: The Lower Monumental Dam and the Little River Dam. We transited four of the locks during the daylight hours and two were crossed during the night. One never tires of watching these amazing engineering feats.

11. Plenty Of Water

We are blessed in the Pacific Northwest to have ample water in our rivers, unlike other parts of the United States and parts of Europe. With mountain snow melting and Mother Nature providing lots of winter rains, the areas in Northern Oregon and Southwest Washington have ample water for small-ship cruising.

12. Access To Smaller Ports 

The small ships of the UnCruise Fleet take guests to tiny ports that larger vessels cannot navigate. On this cruise, we could access the small ports of Astoria, Oregon; Stevenson, Washington; Walla Walla, Oregon; and The Dalles, Oregon. These ports enabled us to partake in many unique adventures. Check out this article for more details.

You may enjoy extending your trip and spending a few days in Portland. For ideas on how to enjoy the beautiful city, read my previous article about Portland. The mission of UnCruise Adventures is “to provide adventure travel experiences that inspire an appreciation of local cultures and the natural world.” This mission was undoubtedly achieved on my “Rivers Of Adventure and Wine” UnCruise Adventure. Do check it out. You will be glad you did!

A Disney Cruise placeholder is an incentive to book future cruises only available to passengers while they’re on a Disney Cruise. 

If sailing with Disney Cruise Line is in your future, you’ll want to be savvy about Disney Cruise placeholders (referred to by Disney as “onboard booking offers”) before setting sail. There are so many fun things to do on Disney ships that, while they’re not a secret, it’s easy to miss booking that cruise placeholder if you don’t know the opportunity exists. This guide to placeholders and the perks (and limitations) of booking one will give you all the information to help you decide whether signing up for this discount is right for you. Spoiler alert: It probably is.

If you’ve enjoyed your time aboard one of Disney Cruise Line’s five ships and can reasonably foresee another cruise within the next 2 years, booking a placeholder makes sense and gives you something to look forward to between vacations.

What’s A Disney Cruise Placeholder?

Pretty much what it sounds like. While you don’t actually book your future cruise while you’re on a Disney Cruise, you pay a deposit that sets you up for a future discount that can be used within the next 24 months. You’ll get an overall 10 percent discount on your cruise when you book it.

The deposit is $250 per stateroom, which will go toward the cost of your future cruise. If you work with a travel planner, you’ll have 30 days to transfer the booking. Disney Cruise Line will send you a confirmation email, so just forward that your planner/agent if you use one.

Here are some perks of booking a Disney Cruise placeholder.

1. It’s Super Easy

Here’s how to do it. If you want to take advantage of the cruise placeholder, you can do it on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app (available on Google Play and the App Store). A couple of taps is all it takes, and the credit card associated with your stateroom will be charged. You’ll be able to see the charge in your folio, along with anything else you might have charged to your stateroom while on board (like alcohol, souvenirs, spa treatments, and so on.)

If you’re tech challenged, you can look for the Future Cruise Desk on board. Disney Cruise Line has gone increasingly digital (one recent unpopular decision was to eliminate the paper Navigator that listed daily activities), and you might have a difficult time finding the Future Cruise Desk manned. We’ve seen the Future Cruise Desk on our last two Disney Cruises (both in 2022) but haven’t seen humans at that desk once. If you want to talk to a live person before booking a cruise placeholder, or just need help, go to guest services.

You can book up to two staterooms (one sail date) per household on board.

2. It Saves You Money

Disney Cruise Line’s prices are at the high end of the cruise pricing spectrum. If you’re looking for discount prices on cruises, Disney isn’t typically going to be where you look. The cruise placeholder discount is one of the few that Disney Cruise Line consistently offers.

Ten percent off your cruise might not seem like a ton, but it’s about as good of a discount as you’re going to get with Disney. The initial deposit also goes toward the cost of your future cruise. You may be required to pay an additional deposit when you actually go to book your cruise, but your cost will be reduced by $250, so the amount may not seem as daunting.

3. It Mitigates The ‘Sad Trombone’ Of Getting Off The Ship

Cruise time always seems to be at warp speed for me. I look forward to my cruise for what seems like ages, and it’s over all too quickly. Our family is always a little mopey on that last day because we don’t want our good times to come to an end. Booking the cruise placeholder gives you that little treat to look forward to and turns a goodbye into a “See you real soon.”

Guardrails And Limitations To Be Aware Of

While booking a cruise placeholder is a good deal, there are some limitations passengers need to be aware of before they start pushing buttons in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app.

Don’t wait too long. The link to the placeholder in the app goes away at midnight on the last full day of the cruise, although you can check with guest services if you miss the booking window in the app.

Disney is strict with the dates. The placeholder is good for 24 months, not 24 months and 1 day. Reserve your placeholder as late in the cruise as possible (so as little as possible of your 24-month clock is ticking while you’re still on board), but don’t leave the actual booking until the last minute.

The Disney Cruise placeholder discount cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts. “The onboard booking offer (AKA placeholder) can be a great value to save on a Disney Cruise,” says Disney Cruise Travel Planner Karen Shelton. “Sadly, all concierge staterooms and suites are excluded from the discount.” If you’ve got your heart set on concierge, this discount won’t be any good to you. 

The biggest drawback to booking a cruise when you’ve reserved a placeholder is that you must call and book your cruise versus reserving online. Traditionally, travelers have experienced long hold times on opening day (the first day new cruises/routes are available to book), but cruisers have reported ordinary calls to the Disney Cruise Line call center to be extra long in 2022. You can eliminate the wait time by giving the cruise over to a travel agent (they’ll be the ones waiting on hold, not you), but you’ve only got a 30-day window to do that.

What’s The Catch?

There really isn’t one. Booking a placeholder is about as zero risk as it gets. If you don’t book a cruise within the allotted time, your deposit will be returned to you. You’ve got 2 years to find a cruise, book it, and sail, but if that doesn’t happen, you’ll get your full deposit back. Other than having $250 tied up for 2 years, there’s no risk to booking a cruise placeholder, so if you think you’re going to want to be a repeated Disney cruiser within the allotted time, booking that placeholder is probably a smart decision.

If attractively priced fall Caribbean cruises have piqued your interest, make sure you’re going into your vacation planning process fully informed with your eyes wide open. Fall is hurricane season in the Caribbean and South Florida, where many Caribbean cruises depart from. Those super deals on cruise fare just might come with a catch.

Hurricane season is officially from June 1 through November 30, with hurricanes tending to be more active in September and October. Hurricane season comes on the heels of the summer travel season, and you’ll almost always find lower cruise prices from September through November. The kids are back in school and cruise lines are pulling out the stops to entice vacationers.

Our family recently returned from a September cruise that was about 40 percent cheaper than the identical cruise in June. We snagged the lower price and pulled our kids out of school. Then Hurricane Ian happened. Here are eight things I wish I knew before booking a cruise during hurricane season.

1. Travel Insurance/Trip Protection Is Important

Whether you purchase a cruise protection plan through your cruise, a single-trip policy, or blanket travel insurance that covers any trip you take for a specified period, make sure you’ve got something in case plans go awry due to weather or any other reason.

Whatever type of coverage you obtain, make sure you’re clear on your coverage. Specifically, make sure you understand what, when, and how a hurricane or tropical storm coverage kicks in. In other words, get the insurance and read the fine print.

As a travel journalist, I carry an annual policy that covers most things that can go wrong. If you’re not a frequent traveler, I recommend budgeting for coverage as you’d budget for any other travel-related expense. Talk to your travel planner or insurance representative for more specific advice but in the case of hurricanes and tropical storms, the general rule of thumb is to make sure you purchase coverage before the storm is named.

2. Your Cruise Is Probably Not Going To Be Canceled

Canceled cruises are rare. A cruise line is more likely to adjust the itinerary to travel around the storm or delay departure than it is to outright cancel. It can be unnerving to know you’ve got a vacation booked and watch a hurricane’s path unfold. If you’re an anxious traveler or don’t do well with uncertainty, waiting to see what a storm is going to do is stressful.

Many cruisers today join Facebook groups specific to their cruise that allow them to connect with other passengers and ask cruise-related questions. If a tropical storm is looming, you can be sure group chatter will turn to weather-related topics. In the group for my September 2022 cruise, there was lots of panicked discussion as Gaston, Hermine, and Ian took shape.

The most-asked questions centered on whether the cruise line would cancel. Several group members reported proactively canceling their plans. While it’s not for me to call someone else’s reaction to severe weather unnecessary or knee-jerk, make sure you understand the financial consequences of canceling your cruise based on future or unknown weather conditions.

If your cruise is canceled, it likely won’t be canceled until the last minute. The cruise line will use email, text, or in-app notifications to spread the message of cancellations, so make sure you’re signed up to receive alerts. Resist the temptation to call the cruise line. The people manning the call center aren’t going to have info on weather-related cancellations.

3. Don’t Get Super Attached To Your Itinerary

People choose cruises for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common is choosing a cruise based on where the ship is going. Sailing around a storm might mean missing ports or stopping at ports in a different order than what was originally routed.

Our recent September cruise had three stops in the Bahamas. We booked port activities and packed our snorkel gear with our sights on lazy beach days and using our GoPro to capture underwater shenanigans. One stop was skipped entirely. We got an extra sea day to avoid the storm. One stop was almost as planned but ended early because of a torrential downpour. The stop that went as planned (Nassau) was the day we’d booked activities on the ship.

We still had a great time. There was some disappointment over the snorkel adventure that wasn’t. As I planned this cruise I was most excited about the 2 days where plans went a little south due to weather. I struggled a little bit to stay positive. At the end of the day, I kept my mind on the fact that I was on a beautiful ship with my family and that someone else was doing the cooking and cleaning up.

 4. Know The Cancellation Policy For Shore Excursions

If you book your shore excursions through the cruise line, cancellations due to missed port stops will be automatic. In most cases, guest services will help you rebook. If you’ve booked a shore excursion outside the cruise line, you may need to do a little more leg work.

Make sure you know what happens to your money if your ship skips a port or your port day changes. Most independent tour companies require guests to pay in full upon booking. Make sure you’re aware of the refund policy.

5. Know Your Tender Ports

Sometimes your cruise ship will dock directly at a port. Other times, the ship will anchor offshore, and you’ll take a smaller boat (tender) ashore. Whether a ship will dock or utilize a tender can depend on several things: the size of the ship, the size of the port, how many other ships are in port, or the depth of the water.

If seas are rough, using a tender to get ashore may not be safe. If tendering is the only option for guests to go ashore, this might factor into the decision to skip a stop in the event of bad weather. If your litmus test for cruise success hinges on a particular port, knowing if it’s a tender port may help manage expectations… or prepare for a little extra motion sickness.

6. Pack Extra Seasick Remedies

While most ship’s infirmaries supply seasick remedies, I always recommend packing your own. If it’s your first cruise and you’re not sure if you’ll get seasick, I suggest packing a couple of different options. If you’re cruising during storm season, you’re more likely to encounter rough seas so make sure you pack a bit extra.

I do not typically get seasick, but I experienced a slight queasiness during our most recent cruise. Our captain and crew did a fantastic job at steering around Hurricane Ian, but I definitely felt the ship’s motion more than normal. It didn’t get bad enough to where I needed to take medicine, but I was glad to have extra.

My husband is the motion sickness guy in our family. He uses a Relief Band, which is a wristband that sends an electric current to his median nerve to prevent nausea. He also doubles up when the seas are really rough and use transdermal patches. These are what I use for my kids if they start experiencing symptoms of motion sickness.

7. Your Cruise Might Not Be Impacted, But Your Trip Home Might Be

If a storm has hit land or if your port is under a storm watch/warning, your flight home might be delayed or canceled. While there’s not a lot you can do about this, being aware that it’s a possibility can help you formulate Plan B, if necessary.

Don’t travel broke. If you have to stay in a hotel because of a canceled flight, make sure you’ve got the resources to be able to do so. Expect to pay more or to have to go further from the port/airport to find lodging. If this happens to you, it will be happening to others as well.

Know your airline’s change policy. Our return flight was headed in the same direction as the storm. Ian had hit land while we were out to sea and was traveling north, so we found another flight that avoided the direction of the storm. Our airline waived change fees for Ian-related travel, and we got a flight that worked better for us.

8. Trust The Cruise Line

Accepting unknowns and things you can’t control is a big part of cruise travel during hurricane season. The cruise line and the crew know it’s hurricane season and place a high priority on protecting passengers, their resources, and their people. They’re not going to steer you into a storm and place you at risk so you can be scared and have a rotten vacation.

If you’re going to cruise during hurricane season, you must be able to trust these things and resign yourself to going with the (literal) flow and not knowing every step of how the sausage gets made. Start watching the weather forecast a week out and be informed but agree with yourself and your travel party to believe the cruise line has everyone’s best interest at heart.

Would I Do It Again? 

Now that I’ve gone on a cruise during a hurricane, would I book another cruise during hurricane season?

I’m a “never say never” traveler and am a sucker for a good deal. That said, I told my husband I didn’t want to book another cruise during hurricane season. We moved a cruise we’d booked for September 2023 to later in the year, which increased the price of our cruise substantially.

I’m a seasoned enough traveler to know that flexibility is important, and we were able to pivot and still have a great trip. I don’t regret going on this cruise and the time with my family, but if we do book during hurricane season again, I’ll approach it differently. I’d make sure to be more invested in enjoying the ship and less invested in being at a particular port on a particular day. If you can adopt that philosophy and live with a little last-minute uncertainty in your travel plans, then go grab those sweet fall cruise deals.

Small ships can visit incredible ports that large ships cannot access. From visiting historical forts and parks to massive dams and fish ladders to the largest waterfall in Oregon to America’s best wine region, and the roaring Deschutes River, here are four small ports you can visit on a Pacific Northwest UnCruise Adventure. 

An UnCruise Adventure takes place on a small ship; the largest in the fleet carries 86 passengers.

I have detailed the experiences at four small ports that I enjoyed on our Rivers of Adventure and Wine vessel, Wilderness Legacy. A variety of activities are offered daily. I have briefly mentioned another activity choice that one could participate in.

These experiences were gained from my press trip on UnCruise Adventures and the Wilderness Legacy Ship. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

From Portland, Oregon, we headed up the Willamette River to the Columbia River, then followed the Mighty Columbia west to the historic port of Astoria, Oregon.

1. Port Of Astoria, Oregon

The Astoria Column

Like a soldier standing guard over the city, the Astoria Column rises 125 feet above the 600-foot summit of Coxcomb Hill. The Column, built in 1926, depicts the history of the Pacific Northwest (the discovery, exploration, and settlement). The beautiful murals on the outside tell many stories. One can also climb the interior of the Column. 

Spend time enjoying the panoramic views at the summit. Look for the Astoria-Megler Bridge, the longest continuous truss bridge in North America. The bridge joins Astoria, Oregon, to Point Ellice, Washington. Also enjoy the views of the Columbia and Lewis & Clark Rivers, along with the coastal mountains. You might find a little treasure in the small gift shop at the summit.

Fort Clatsop National Historic Park

Step into Fort Clatsop, located a mere five miles south of Astoria. Fort Clatsop is a replica of the complex in which Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery camped over the winter of 1805. Picture yourself spending months in this small fort while rain and cold surround you! Brrr! 

Take time to enjoy the Living History Programs where rangers give talks on the daily activities of the Corps. Spend time in the visitor center and museum. Do you have the national parks passport book? You can get it stamped here.

The Columbia River Maritime Museum

The Columbia River Bar at Astoria, Oregon, is known as “one of the most dangerous bar crossings in the world.” Plan to spend a few hours at the Columbia River Maritime Museum just off downtown Astoria to learn about the elements of the Columbia Bar, the Pacific Ocean, and why the area is also known as “The Graveyard of the Pacific.” The Maritime Museum is one of the largest collections of marine artifacts in the Pacific Northwest. 

The other choice on my Rivers of Adventure and Wine was a 7-mile guided hike on the “Fort To Sea Trail.”

2. Port Of Stevenson Landing, Washington

The Massive Bonneville Dam

From the Port of Astoria, we headed east on the Columbia River to Stevenson Landing, Washington. This took us into the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The national scenic area begins east of Vancouver, Washington, and extends approximately 80 miles where the Columbia River forms the northern border of Oregon and the southern border of Washington. It is an area of beauty with sheer cliffs, lush forests, and high desert plateaus. As you are traveling through the area, watch for gillnet fishing. Historically, gillnet fishing was used on several U.S. rivers. Today, it is used only on the Columbia River. 

We anchored in the river at Stevenson Landing and took the skiff to the dock. We visited Bonneville Dam and Locks, approximately 40 miles east of Portland. We enjoyed a private tour of the dam and fish ladders. The Bonneville Dam is part of the system of 150 hydroelectric projects and several dams on the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Indeed, the Bonneville Dam is regarded as “one of the world’s largest hydroelectric systems” and is designated a National Historic Landmark.

Watch the migrating salmon and pacific lamprey swimming up the fish ladders outside, then head into the Viewing Rooms to watch closer. It is amazing! Up to 250,000 fish pass through the ladders daily. 

You can also get your national parks passport book stamped here. 

Multnomah Falls, Oregon

Multnomah Falls is one of Oregon’s most recognized landmarks. The fall plummets over 540 feet to the second fall of 70 feet. Fed by underground springs, the fall has a year-round flow. Enjoy an easy quarter-mile hike to the Benson Bridge along the Multnomah Falls Trail. The hike becomes more strenuous from the bridge. 

Multnomah Falls Historic Lodge’s Visitor Information Center is well worth a visit for trail maps and brochures of the falls and information on the Columbia River Gorge. The lodge also has a restaurant.

The other daily choice on my Rivers of Adventure and Wine Journey was a guided hike in the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area.

3. Port Of Walla Walla, Washington

McNary National Wildlife Refuge

The port for Walla Walla Washington is located in the small town of Burbank, Washington. Anchored at Burbank, we drove along the 15,000-acre McNary National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is particularly important for migrating waterfowl. Many birds overwinter in this area — especially Mallards.

Dunham Cellars

Enjoy a tasting of award-winning wines at Dunham Cellars in Walla Walla. The Walla Walla area has been named “America’s Best Wine Region” for the third year in a row by USA Today. Celebrating its 25th year, Dunham Cellars upholds this tradition. The tasting room offers both indoor and outdoor seating along with fine wines.

Walla Walla 

Enjoy strolling the lovely downtown Walla Walla for 30 more tasting rooms and delightful shops. Walla Walla Valley is also known for its Walla Walla sweet onions. Stop by the historic Marcus Whitman Hotel. The second floor has an interesting exhibit of paintings detailing the founders and the Whitman Massacre.

4. Port Of The Dalles, Oregon

We were delighted to be welcomed to The Dalles by the “The Gals From The Dalles, Floozies, and Friends.” The volunteer group promotes, educates, and entertains with a living history of the area. Here is a photo of their namesake, which they presented to the Wilderness Legacy.

The Maryhill Museum Of Art

From our port at the Dalles, a shuttle took us over the Dalles Bridge to the Washington side and approximately 20 miles to the Maryhill Museum of Art. Located high on the Columbia River Bank near Goldendale, Maryhill Museum is truly a hidden gem. It is a world-class museum housed in the original mansion of Samuel Hill. The extensive collection includes artifacts from Queen Marie of Romania, European and American paintings, Rodin sculptures, 18th-century Russian Icons, and Native American basketry and artifacts. Enjoy time amongst the beautifully groomed 5,300-acre grounds by sitting on one of the numerous benches under the shade of a tree.

The Stonehenge Memorial

The Stonehenge Memorial, also built by Samuel Hill, is just east of the Maryhill Museum. The Memorial is a concrete reproduction of the English site and was constructed in 1918 to commemorate the Klickitat County soldiers who died in WWI. Stroll amongst the structure and discover plaques with the name of the heroes. Take time to reflect and enjoy the stunning views of the Columbia River.

Maryhill Winery

Maryhill Winery Tasting Room & Bistro is located just west of Maryhill Museum, high on the banks of the Columbia River. Maryhill is one of Washington’s largest and most visited wineries. Enjoy tasting award-winning wines and fabulous views of the Columbia River and Mt. Hood. Wine Press Northwest honored Maryhill Winery as the 2015 PNW (Pacific Northwest) Winery of the Year. Team your wine with some great dishes at the bistro.

The other daily choice on my Rivers of Adventure and Wine Journey was a whitewater rafting adventure on the Deschutes River.

Only on a small ship can you reach these unique ports. If you are looking to travel away from crowds to areas less visited, an UnCruise Adventure is for you.

River cruises offer leisurely exploration and intimate adventures. Taking a river cruise around the holidays means you get to experience timeless traditions, like European Christmas markets. Our travel advisor, Carie Skerritt, says, “The best part about Christmas markets is immersing yourself in the culture of the community.”

European Christmas Market Magic

Warm up with a steamy mug of mulled wine as you wander the enchanting stalls of some of the largest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe. Shop handmade ornaments, toys, and gifts as you inhale the festive aroma of gingerbread and roasted chestnuts. Dazzling decorations and lights delight the eyes, while the sound of Christmas carolers and church bells fills the air.

Most European Christmas markets are open from the last week of November through December 22. Several of these Christmas market river cruises start in November, so you can still be home in plenty of time for the holidays.

What To Expect On An AmaWaterway Luxury Christmas Market River Cruise

A large variety of activities, including tours and a choice of excursions, lets cruisers choose their own adventure. AmaWaterways’ Christmas market cruises are decked out in holiday cheer. Onboard experiences include “Shoes for St. Nick” where passengers set slippers out to be filled with treats just like European children do on St. Nicholas Day. Guests are invited to deck the halls during the ship’s Tree-Trimming Party. If you cruise on Christmas Eve, you can expect to find Christmas cookies in your stateroom. A holiday feast, complete with all the trimmings, tops it all off.

Our travel advisors Carie Skerritt and Bill Sharo with Dream Vacations can help you book any of these Christmas market river cruises via our Book A Trip page. “AmaWaterways is considered a luxury item,” remarks Skerritt, who recommends the cruise line for everyone from foodies to multi-gen travelers. “There is something for everyone, so you don’t have to have a group leader responsible for everyone’s needs and wants — it’s all included,” she adds. “The ships are decorated and festive, so just being on the ships puts you in the holiday spirit,” according to the travel advisor. Here are some Christmas market river cruises you can book today!

1. Christmas Markets On The Danube

Vilshofen To Budapest

• Length: 7 Nights
• Starting Price Per Person: $2,499
• Dates: November 27 to December 23

This route cruises along the second-longest river in Europe through Austria, Germany, Hungary, and Slovakia, stopping in the capital cities of Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna, as well as Salzburg. Both Magna on the Danube and Christmas Markets on the Danube tours cruise through The Wachau Valley, where you can take a walking tour of Dürnstein.

This river cruise also gives you the opportunity to visit Linz, where you can find one of the most beautiful Austrian Christmas markets at Hellbrunn Palace. It also stops in Passau, where a walking tour brings you to St. Stephen’s Square and its baroque cathedral in the heart of Old Town. At Passau Christkindlmarkt, you can find cute little Bavarian-style model houses, cookie cutters, and olive wood products from Assisi.

2. Christmas Markets On The Rhine

Amsterdam To Basel (Or Reverse)

• Length: 7 Nights
• Starting Price Per Person: $2,800
• Dates: November 29 to December 20

Cruise through France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland as the Rhine takes you to several European towns with cherished Christmas markets. In Cologne, visit Christmas Market at the Cathedral, one of the best German Christmas markets. Located in the heart of the city, the market takes place at the foot of a UNESCO-designated Gothic cathedral.

What’s better than shopping? Shopping while tipsy! Go wine tasting in the winemaking town of Rüdesheim then enjoy holiday traditions from around the world at the Rüdesheim Christmas Market of Nations.

Known as the Capital of Noël, Strasbourg boasts the oldest and largest Christmas Market in France, Christkindelsmärik. Check out the world’s largest Advent calendar at the Heidelberg Christmas Market, where the town hall windows count down the days to Christmas, revealing the portrait of a world-famous artist each night.

3. Iconic Christmas Markets

Nuremberg To Budapest (Or Reverse)

• Length: 7 Nights
• Starting Price Per Person: $2,800
• Dates: November 28 to December 19

As the name suggests, this cruise takes you through Austria, Germany, and Hungary to some of the most iconic Christmas markets on the Danube. Nuremberg’s historic Christkindlesmarkt is perhaps the best-known Christmas market in Germany. According to our expert tips on European Christmas markets, you should try the mulled wine from Vollrath’s Heidelbeergluhwein and Nuernberger Rostbratwürste (famous grilled sausage in a bun), and pick up a Zwetschgenmännlein, a unique figurine carved out of dried plums.

Step back in time at a Bavarian castle at Regensburg’s Romantic Christmas Market. Some craftsmen sell toys, such as dolls and marionettes, while others peddle their pottery and paintings at the Lucreziamarkt. While in Vienna, you’ll find a Christmas market seemingly around every corner. Finish the trip by exploring the beautiful markets of Budapest.

4. Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps Christmas

Amsterdam To Basel (Or Reverse)

• Length: 7 Nights
• Starting Price Per Person: $2,499
• Dates: November 28 to December 19

Encompassing the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland, this fantastic Rhine River cruise offers fairytale castles and historic vineyards in addition to Christmas markets. Starting in canal-laden Amsterdam, this cruise winds its way through the German city of Cologne, where you can browse the city’s most impressive Christmas markets.

Then it’s on to the winemaking hamlet of Rüdesheim and the festive Christmas markets of Heidelberg. Forty hilltop castles and fortresses dot the banks of the historic Rhine Gorge, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cross the border into the majestic mountain landscapes of France’s Alsace region as sweeping Swiss Alps views await in Strasbourg.

5. Treasures Of The Main & Rhine

Nuremberg To Amsterdam

Length: 7 Nights
Starting Price Per Person: $2,800
Dates: November 29 (Departing)

This 7-night cruise from Nuremberg to Amsterdam sets sail one time only — on November 29, 2022. Stop in Bamberg to taste the city’s famous smoked beer and visit its charming Christmas markets. A stop in Würzburg includes a walking tour of festive Christmas markets. In Wertheim, choose between taking a guided tour of the historic city center and local Christmas markets or learning the art of pretzel-making at a local bakery.

Then, meander from the Main River to the Rhine to get to the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. One of the excursions includes a wine tasting with a local vintner and a visit to the town’s fairytale Christmas markets. During your stop in Cologne, stroll through 160 wooden pavilions, watching artisans work as you sip mulled wine.

6. Magna On The Danube

Experience Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany (including the iconic capital cities of Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna). Peruse some of the best holiday markets in Europe, including Regensburg and Salzburg. Budapest Christmas Market is Hungary’s largest. Taking place on the cobblestone Vorosmarty Square, this handcrafts-only market is a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts. With over 150 vendor stalls, Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt takes place in front of its 19th-century town hall.

Why You Should Book With Our Travel Advisors

Our travel advisors will ensure that you receive every AmaWaterways river cruise offer that you qualify for, including complimentary shore excursions and beverages. They offer up to $300 credit to spend onboard. Our travel advisors can also help you book hotel stays at ports on either side of your voyage.

Not only will you get exclusive bonus offers when you book through our travel advisors instead of directly with the cruise line, but you also rack up AmaWaterways Privilege Rewards benefits. Our travel advisors aren’t just concerned with offering the best deals — they’re also committed to offering the best experience.

Related Reading:

1. Best Tips For Christmas Markets In Europe According To Experts
2. 8 Best Christmas Market Towns In France
3. 9 Best German Christmas Markets To Visit

I just returned from my first cruise to the Greek Islands and it won’t be my last. Seven days sounded like plenty of time to experience the islands of the Aegean Sea, but it wasn’t. I already have a list of places to explore more when I return.

It won’t be easy to sum up my favorite experiences in just one article, but I’ll try. I’ve chosen a combination of our favorite sceneries and the most interesting historical sites. Along the way, we met fascinating people, ate delicious food, and came to understand why Greece is on many people’s bucket lists. It was a trip that exceeded all expectations.

My cruise of the Greek Islands was hosted by Celestyal Cruises. All opinions are my own.

1. Thessaloniki Promenade

My husband, Jason, and I boarded our cruise ship, Celestyal Crystal, in Athens on a Saturday afternoon. By Sunday morning, we were in Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece. We opted to join an organized excursion with the cruise ship. Once the ship docked, we disembarked and headed to our assigned tour bus.

Our guide, Panos, has spent much of his adult life living in Thessaloniki, a city he clearly adores. Throughout our 4-hour tour, he shared the history of the city along with a glimpse of local life.

Our first stop was at White Tower, located next to the sea and generally considered the symbol of the city. It was originally part of the fortification walls to protect the city from invaders. And while the tower was interesting, it was the seaside promenade that Jason and I enjoyed the most. 

Panos explained how this pathway runs for 2.5 kilometers (1.55 miles) and is a popular spot for locals to walk, run, and bicycle. After our tour ended, Jason and I returned to the promenade for a stroll before returning to the ship. It was a lovely way to watch locals enjoying their Sunday afternoon walking dogs, pushing strollers, and — like us — enjoying the warm and sunny day. It was the perfect introduction to life in Greece.

2. Church Of St. Demetrios

Our final stop on the tour of Thessaloniki was the Church of St. Demetrios, a historic site with a long and complicated history. Long before churches were built on this site, it was a Roman bath. The first of many churches was built here in the 4th century A.D.

Over the next several centuries, there would be many fires and multiple reconstructions. During the Ottoman Empire, it was converted into a mosque. When the Ottomans left, it reverted to a church, but the Great Fire of 1917 brought significant destruction. It was this fire and the subsequent rebuilding that resulted in the discovery of the underground crypt; it had remained hidden for 500 years.

After a tour of the church, our group descended into the dark and cool crypt. Today, visitors can explore the underground rooms and see many of the archeological artifacts discovered.

3. Ancient City Of Ephesus

After departing Thessaloniki in the afternoon, our ship sailed overnight to Kusadasi, Turkey. The day’s excursion was included in our cruise, so we boarded our bus and headed to Ephesus.

Once considered the most important trading center in the Mediterranean, the early history of Ephesus is not fully known, but according to legend, it was founded in the 11th century B.C. by the Ionian Prince Androcles. As we walked through the remains of the city, we were amazed by the layers of history. Myriad kings, emperors, and empires ruled Ephesus over the course of 26 centuries.

Our guide, Can (pronounced John), led us to the best known sights including the Temple of Hadrian, the Odium (theater), and the Celsus Library. In between, we saw public toilets that once had running water, a fountain, a hospital, and a brothel. Since only 10 percent of the city has been excavated, we also watched as a group of archeologists worked on unearthing additional buildings.

Pro Tips: Ephesus has very little shade. When visiting, come prepared with sunscreen, water, and a wide-brimmed hat. Also, many of the pathways are marble and can be slick. Be sure to wear shoes with good tread.

4. Medieval City Of Rhodes

On the 4th day of the cruise, we found ourselves on the island of Rhodes where we joined the included half-day excursion. In the second half of the tour, we would be exploring Greco-Roman ruins — something I expected in Greece. But I was surprised to find our first stop was a medieval city. Looking more like something I’ve seen in England or France, Rhodes Old Town was built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century.

We arrived early in Rhodes Old Town while it was still relatively quiet and spent 30 minutes walking its cobblestone streets. This beautifully-preserved fortified city is still a vibrant neighborhood filled with homes, shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums. Surrounded by a 4-kilometer (2.49-mile) wall and protected by a triple moat, the Old Town was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.

When our tour of the island concluded, Jason and I returned to Old Town for lunch and then explored it further. The main streets are quite busy with tourists during the day, but once we got away from the shops and restaurants, there were few people and we were able to appreciate the medieval architecture and get a sense of local life.

5. Acropolis Of Lindos

When anyone says Acropolis, it’s assumed the location is Athens. But it turns out the word simply refers to “the upper settlement of an ancient Greek city.” At one time, most Greek cities had an acropolis, a place where locals would go to worship or to escape invaders.

The second half of our time on Rhodes Island was in the town and Acropolis of Lindos. We began by walking through the myriad shops and cafes of Lindos, all painted white and beckoning tourists. Then, we began our steep ascent to the top.

The climb to the acropolis is not for the faint of heart. It is a steep, slick, and often crowded pathway. Those with a fear of heights may also find it difficult. But once at the top, we were rewarded with views of 3,000-year-old ruins surrounded by the deep-blue color of the Mediterranean Sea.

Like many similar sights in Greece, the ruins here are from multiple civilizations and empires. They are literally layers of history. We spent half an hour climbing the steps and appreciating the differing views. Then, we returned to the village below, grabbed a drink, and returned to our bus.

Pro Tip: While we followed our guide up the paved path to the acropolis, we opted to walk down the much less-crowded dirt path, thus circumventing hundreds of other people. No matter which path you use, sturdy shoes with good tread are essential.

6. Sunset Dinner In Santorini

Our ship arrived late in the afternoon in Santorini. Instead of an excursion, we decided to enjoy a romantic, sunset dinner in the town of Fira.

The process of getting to dinner wasn’t easy. There is no port in Santorini, so ships must anchor offshore and use tenders (small boats) to transport guests to the island. From there, guests can reach the town of Fira — perched high on the hilltops — by cable cars, donkeys, or on foot. We had hoped to use the cable cars, but the lines were extremely long. Despite having dressed for an upscale dinner, we opted to walk the steep path so we could maximize our time in Fira. It was certainly a good workout.

While the start of our time in Santorini was less than ideal, the dinner was perfect. One of the cruise ship staff had recommended Ohh Boy Restaurant & Bar and it did not disappoint. From our patio table, we could see our ship floating in the Aegean below. Behind it were two smaller islands that appeared uninhabited. Over the course of our meal, we watched the sun sink into the sea lighting up the sky in bright orange. To make things even better, the food was delicious. Accompanied by a glass of local white wine, I told Jason that this was exactly what I imagined Santorini would be like.

7. Mykonos Town

I was excited that our ship was scheduled to spend most of the day in Mykonos so we would have plenty of time to explore it. While there were several interesting excursions offered, we opted to go on our own. 

After our ship docked, we were among the first people to disembark, so the streets of Mykonos Town (also known as Chora) were relatively empty. We immediately fell in love with the white buildings, trimmed in blue, yellow, and pink, set against the streets paved with white stones. Frequently, we saw bougainvillea in planters adding even more color to the scene. 

Our first stop was the famed windmills, seen in many photos of the island. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, these were used to mill wheat. As many as 25 windmills once could be found in Mykonos, but just 16 remain today. 

Next, we wanted a snack, so we popped into Gioras, the oldest working bakery on the island. The tables and cases were full of delicious-looking pies and pastries. We sampled the cheese, spinach, potato, and chicken pie. All were delicious and I only wish we could have eaten more.

After some shopping and continued sightseeing, we ended our day on Mykonos with an early dinner near the harbor. The food was good, but what was most memorable was the appearance of the island mascot, Petros (or Peter) the Pelican. Legend has it that an injured pelican was nursed back to health by a local fisherman in the 1950s. Since the bird could no longer fly, it made the island its home and was adopted by the residents. The original Petros died in 1986, but a few substitutes have since been recruited. Today, they can be seen frequently by the harbor, but are equally comfortable strolling the town’s scenic lanes.

For all of Greece coverage, check out articles like these:

• Fly To Greece Next Summer For As Low As $199 Each Way — Here’s How
• 8 Reasons You’ll Fall In Love With Greece In The Fall
• 11 Important Things To Know Before Your First Trip To Greece

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest ship and first in the newest Icon class, is still under construction in Finland. Thanks to modern technology, I got to preview what the guest experience on board is going to look and feel like next year. I relinquished my cell phone, donned a pair of special slippers and a set of 3D goggles, and stepped into the CAVE, a place inside Royal Caribbean’s Innovation Lab where ideas on what makes up a dream vacation take shape.  

I also took a separate virtual reality tour of one of the Surfside suites, a new class of staterooms that caters to young families. I was pretty impressed by all the tech bells and whistles that allowed me to get a feel for a ship that’s still in the process of being built, but even more impressed by the fun things in store for guests when they set sail on Icon of the Seas. 

Icon of the Seas is being built with families in mind, with the affirmation that family means different things to different groups of people. Whether you’re a large, multigenerational travel group trying to check that “something for everyone” box, or a friend group taking a trip together, Icon of the Seas has seemingly endless choices for activities you can enjoy with the people you’ve chosen to go on vacation with.  

I’m answering your questions about Royal Caribbean’s newest, biggest, and most fabulous cruise ship.  

I was a guest of the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line for this media preview. 

Where Will Icon Of The Seas Be Sailing?

Beginning in January 2024 (booking opens October 25), Icon of the Seas will be sailing to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Miami. The ship will visit ports such as Cozumel, St. Maarten, and Honduras. Both the Eastern and Western Caribbean routes include a stop at Coco Cay, which is Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas. The Perfect Day at Coco Cay is Royal Caribbean’s premier spot for fun in the sun. The island opened in early 2020 and has been a popular spot for cruisers now that travel is in full swing again. 

What Is Icon Of The Seas’ Maiden Voyage?

Booking information will be on Royal Caribbean’s website on Tuesday, October 25. If you’re part of the line’s Crown & Anchor loyalty program, look for special access a day early.  

“My inbox has been overflowing since Royal Caribbean revealed the details of Icon of the Seas earlier this week. It’s fair to say I’ve been SLAMMED!” says Jenn Greene, a travel agent with MEI/MouseFan Travel. “I’ve been a travel agent for almost 11 years and I’ve never had so many requests for an inaugural cruise.”

How Big Will Icon Of The Seas Be?

Icon of the Seas is equipped to carry 7,600 passengers at maximum occupancy, making it the world’s largest cruise ship, a designation previously held by Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas. When completed, the new ship will be 20 decks high and measure 1,198 feet long. With the crew on board, Icon of the Seas will carry nearly 10,000 people. 

What Will Icon Of The Seas Feature?

Nearly everything under the sun. The focus with Icon is family being together and offering an array of activities that families can do together. The ship is designed based on ways families can enjoy being on vacation and doing things they have fun doing, whether that’s tackling new adventures, relaxing on the deck with a fruity drink, or a little bit of both. 

“Now more than ever, families and friends are prioritizing experiences where they can bond and enjoy their own adventures,” said Michael Bayley, president, and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “We set out to create a vacation that makes all that possible in one place for the thrill-seekers, the chill enthusiasts, and everyone in between.” 

What is Icon Class on Royal Caribbean?

Icon class is Royal Caribbean’s newest, largest class of cruise ships. Two other Icon class ships are rolling out over the next two to three years, bringing the total number of cruise ships in this class to three. 

We’ll have a better idea of how Icon class compares to Oasis class once construction is a little further along, but we do know that Icon class ships are going to be big. Based on the media preview I attended at Royal Caribbean’s innovation lab in Miami, the overarching theme of Icon Class ships is “more.”  

If you prioritize greener travel, you may be happy to learn Icon of the Seas will be Royal Caribbean’s most sustainable ship to date. The ship will be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG) and utilize new fuel cell technology. It will also utilize shore power connection and waste heat recovery systems. 

The names of the second two Icon class ships have not yet been revealed. 

What Will Icon Of The Seas Feature That Wonder Of The Seas Does Not?

There are still some details about the fun awaiting passengers on Icon of the Seas that have yet to be revealed. CEO Michael Bayley teased at a press conference in Miami on October 18 that the best experiences are still under wraps and will be revealed soon. 

That said, based on what we know right now, here are some standout features of Icon of the Seas that aren’t present in Wonder of the Seas.

More Space For More People

The Wonder of the Seas is equipped to carry 6,988 passengers at maximum occupancy. Icon of the Seas tops that at 7,600 passengers. However, more passengers doesn’t mean more staterooms. Icon has 62 fewer staterooms than Wonder. 

A Full Water Park At Sea

Category 6 is Icon of the Seas’ water park featuring six record-breaking slides, including an open free-fall slide, the tallest drop slide at sea, the first family raft slides at sea, and the cruise industry’s first mat-racing duo slides. 

Swim-Up Bar

If you’ve been missing the resort vibe on cruise ships, Icon of the Seas has designed a swim-up bar with you in mind. Swim & Tonic is Royal Caribbean’s first swim-up bar. 

Surfside: New Stateroom Class And Neighborhood

You might be picking up on the fact that Icon of the Seas has been designed with epic family vacations in mind, which makes it perfect for multigenerational travel groups. The brand-new Surfside neighborhood includes 42 Surfside suites, a new stateroom category catering to young families. Surfside will house children’s play areas, including a signature carousel, family pools, and splash pads for toddlers and babies. The spacious, mid-tier Surfside suites will have direct access to the Surfside neighborhood. 

There Are Four More Brand New Neighborhoods

Royal Caribbean terms their themed fun zones as “neighborhoods” and you’ll find five new spaces to play in that don’t yet exist on any other cruise ship. I’ve described Surfside above. Here’s what else you can look forward to. 

Thrill Island

Thrill Island contains the Category 6 water park described above as well as Crown’s Edge, the ultimate activity for adrenaline junkies. Part skywalk, part ropes course, and part thrill ride, it culminates in a surprising and shocking moment that will see travelers swing 154 feet above the ocean. 

Chill Island

If you don’t want the thrills, you can chill. Chill Island is a three-deck slice of paradise featuring the largest pool at sea, an adults-only area, and a bar dedicated to frozen cocktails. 

The Hideaway

This tucked-away space 135 feet above the ocean combines beach club vibes with uninterrupted ocean views. The first suspended infinity pool at sea is located here. I will also be located here when Icon of the Seas sets sail!

AquaDome

The AquaDome is a transformational space that will feature tranquil waterfalls and ocean views by day and serve as an entertainment space by night. The AquaTheater, which features Royal Caribbean’s marquee aqua shows featuring a transforming pool, four robotic arms, and state-of-the-art projection, will be located here.

Your elegantly appointed stateroom with full sliding doors opening to a French balcony with an ever-changing scenic slideshow is your home for the next 7, 10, 14, or more days. First, you are compelled to open the slider and enjoy your view — even if it is the dock side — imagining all the panoramic landscapes you will encounter along your journey.

You unpack the suitcase that has magically appeared in your stateroom, organizing clothes into drawers and closets tucked into every nook and cranny. As you read the daily shipboard newspaper filled with activities, you already know why river cruises are perfect for retirees.

1. Unpack Once

No one loves living out of a suitcase; it gets tiresome quickly. Additionally, space is at a premium in a stateroom — no room for a bulky suitcase. Take a few minutes to unpack and tuck away your luggage. Your cabin will stay tidy and comfortable, your clothes will be neatly folded or hung, and you can turn your attention to more important tasks like having the time of your life.

2. Eliminate Transportation Woes

When you book your airfare and airport transfers as part of the cruise package, the cruise line becomes responsible for any hiccups. Traveling always comes with a bit of the unknown, and it is comforting to know you have a team to work out any kinks that arise.

Once on the ship, your ship-booked excursions include transportation. If you book with an outside vendor, you will need to make certain you are back in plenty of time for the all-aboard call.

3. Excursions For All Abilities

Most cruise lines offer excursions with a variety of exertion levels. They still offer the guided bus tour where you only get off for photos and maybe a short walk. However, many now include bike tours, hiking, and outings geared to a more athletic traveler.

For example, on Viking’s Grand European Tour, the excursions in Cologne include a Cologne Walking Tour (moderate), Cologne by Bicycle (active), and Cologne’s Beer Culture & Dinner (easy). This variety of activity levels allows you to go at your own pace and offers appropriate options for all guests. Most ports of call offer at least one excursion for the gentle traveler.

4. Locally Guided Tours

Cruise lines love repeat customers, and word of mouth is their best marketing tool, so they hire the best local tour guides to lead their excursions. Local guides bring a personal perspective to the local culture, history, and traditions.

When you only have a brief time in a location, touring with a local guide is the best way to absorb area highlights. Local guides are also terrific referral resources when you have time to explore on your own.

5. Enjoy Regional Cuisine

Cruising and delicious food go hand-in-hand. The main dining room typically offers one or two dishes inspired by the local cuisine. As you travel through Regensburg, Germany, perhaps you will find traditional German sausage and sauerkraut on the menu. This allows you to sample regional dishes without having to scout out the perfect restaurant.

If you are a foodie, be sure to check on the onboard cooking lessons and food-focused excursions offered on your voyage.

6. Fun On-Board Activities

When river cruising, you usually don’t have too many “at sea” days; there is typically a port of call each day. However, while sailing, you will find plenty of activities to keep you busy. Of course, there is the pool, gym, and the ubiquitous bar. But also there are intellectual talks, demonstrations, wine tastings, card games, and the casino.

You can always find a comfy chair with a view and simply watch the world float by.

7. Sample A Variety Of Cruises

There is a river cruise for everyone. The variety in the type of cruise may be just as important as the location of the cruise. Themed cruises like history, art, wine, knitting, cycling, and Christmas markets are just a few. Learn more about your favorite retiree pastime or immerse yourself in a new adventure.

Retirees are flocking to river cruises to enjoy the amenities, port stops, cultural immersion, and meeting new friends with similar interests. It is the perfect getaway for seniors.

8. Score Last-Minute Deals

As retirees, we have plenty of free time. Last-minute cruise deals are appealingly budget-friendly. If you have a trusted travel agent, and you should use one to book your cruise, they are a good source of last-minute deals. Also, when you sign up for the cruise lines newsletter they will inundate you with cruise information — including any last-minute deals.

Hopping on an all-inclusive cruise at the last minute requires little or no planning. Simple book it and show up — it’s the best way to travel.

9. Bookended Adventures

You can book a getaway extension on the front and/or back end of your cruise in cities offered by the cruise line. They will take care of your transportation, hotel, and often a “get-acquainted city tour.” Additionally, a cruise director is onsite at the hotel for guidance and assistance. It’s like having your own concierge.

Many cruise lines offer different cities for pre and post-embarkation stops for cruises along the same route. For example, Prague is a pre/post stay for the Danube River Cruise, and requires a good bus ride to reach the embarkation city. The pre/post stays are a nice way to explore destinations more in-depth.

10. Smooth Sailing

Guests on river cruises are less likely to suffer from seasickness. The rivers are calmer than the open seas, so the ship rocks less. Most of the sailing is overnight and the gentle rocking has more of a soothing effect than the rocking of rough waters.

11. Small Ships Equals Personalized Service

The guest-to-staff ratios on river cruises tend to be almost one guest to one staff or two guests to one staff, though it varies by cruise line. The ratio is conducive to smaller crowds and is more favorable than the larger cruise ships. With more staff tending to guests along with the low guest capacity (around 250 passengers), river cruises offer more personalized service.

You become very familiar with your cabin steward, server, and cruise director. They get to know you quickly and can attend to any special needs or requests.

12. Ports Are Close To The City

Cruise ships are small and can dock close to the city center. They fit into port slips much easier than larger cruise ships that may have to dock out of port. This allows guests gangway access to the port city or the excursion transportation. Very seldom does a river cruise require tenders for disembarkation.

13. Easy Mobility Access

The smaller ships, fewer people, and personalized service make access easier for guests with mobility issues. The ships are smaller to navigate, typically dock in the port or old port area, and guest services are more attuned to a particular guest’s needs.

You will encounter many guests requiring varying levels of access.

14. Solo Travel Friendly

Solo travel is becoming extremely popular. Long gone are the days when singles had to find a travel buddy before they embarked on an adventurous journey.

Many cruise companies offer decreased single supplements — some charging no additional fee. You will find singles meet-ups and many guests going solo on excursions even if they are traveling with a companion. As a solo traveler, you can have as much or as little alone time as you desire.

15. Language Immersion

If you are looking for a unique language experience, book a trip on one of the cruise lines offered in a language other than English. French Waterways offers luxurious cruises where the staff speaks French and English. Immerse yourself in the country you are visiting — the scenery, gastronomy, and language — for a cultural experience you won’t soon forget.

Top River Cruise Lines

Below is the list of Travel Awaits Best Of Travel 2022 Favorite River Cruise Lines. Recommendations by fellow river cruisers are always a great place to start.

• AmaWaterways
• American Cruise Lines
• American Queen Voyages
• Aqua Expeditions
• Avalon Waterways
• Belmond
• Grand Circle Cruise Line
• Scenic Cruises
• Tauck River Cruises
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
• Vantage Cruise Line
• Viking

River Cruises Are A Wonderful Travel Option

River cruises are one of my favorite ways to travel. Waking up to beautiful fjords, ancient port cities, and bustling harbor views starts the day off full of promise with a peek at what lies ahead. As retirees, we have the luxury of time; river cruising is one of the best ways to enjoy relaxed travel. Bon Voyage!

Planning a Mediterranean cruise packing list when you are traveling for an extended getaway can be daunting. My plus-one and I were cruising for 17 days in August across the sunkissed shores of Spain, France, Italy, and Greece. It was hot, hot, hot! As a seasoned traveler, I have honed my packing skills fairly well. I had all my must-haves, but I overpacked just a smidge and tossed in a few things I really didn’t need.

What To Bring On A Mediterranean Cruise

We were cruising on Oceania Cruises’ Riviera Ship. The dress code on-board during the day was casual but evening wear was listed as “country club casual.” In reality, guests ratched the evening wear up several notches to “country club chic with a healthy dash of fashionista.” Additionally, tourists along the Mediterranean dress in casually fashionable outfits which adds to the packing conundrum. Conceivably, you could need three or four outfits each day — workout wear, pool wear, a touring ensemble, and fashionable attire for dinner. I packed 30 outfits in one checked bag. And, I wore almost all of them.

Pro Tip: There is laundry service and self-serve machines on-board many ships that offer extended cruises. It was extremely hot, so I needed to do laundry twice to freshen up some of our outfits.

There are items I pack for every trip regardless of whether it is a weekend getaway or a month-long journey.

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1. Great Walking Shoes

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On the top of the list, a great pair of walking shoes is crucial to keeping your feet happy. I like to have two pairs that I know will be comfy. White sneakers are a fashion must, I love LifeStride’s Accelerate Sneaker. They are washable, always look bright white, super light weight and don’t add too much to your suitcase, comfy and fashionable.

I also pack sandals that I can walk in all day and also wear for dinner. You want something sturdy, comfortable, and fashionable.

2. Small Backpack Or Fanny Pack

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Fanny Packs are back from the ‘90s; their small size and ease of use are hard to beat. The gender-neutral carry-all keeps your wallet, phone, etc. safe and easily accessible.

Small leather backpacks were everywhere and made totting heavier necessities like cameras, water bottles, and purchases manageable.

Of course, you don’t want to wear both of them at the same time!

3. Packing Cubes

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When packing cubes came out, I was skeptical. How can adding more fabric to your suitcase help you pack better. Now, I don’t even start packing until I have my cubes lined up.

When you roll up your clothes and zip (or cram) them into the cubes, you can easily increase your packing capacity. The cube keeps the rolled items nestled tightly together. Once you have your cubes packed, you can organize them in your luggage in the most efficient arrangement.

I have three sets of packing cubes. You can find them at any big box store. I need a set and a half to pack a large suitcase efficiently.

4. Money Belt

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When you don’t want to fuss with a shoulder bag or backpack, a money belt is a great alternative. I use StashBandz Unisex Travel Money Belt.

The best place for your valuables is in your stateroom safe, however, when you need to carry your passport, credit cards, and cash, this belt offers peace of mind. It is slim fitting and sits under a loose shirt easily. Just remember to keep a card or some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to fish through the money belt just to enjoy a gelato.

5. Fedora Or Hat

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A hat is a must and Fedora’s are the popular option along the Med. White, airy woven hats with a brim just wide enough to shade your nose are worn by men and women alike. You will find them in shops from Provence to the tip of Italy’s boot.

Pack a baseball cap if that’s your style or treat yourself to a fashionable fedora in your first port of call.

6. Slim Water Bottle

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I am a dedicated Yeti fan, but their insulated water bottles are too heavy to carry on a long trip and too big for the economy seat back pocket on most airlines. For travel, I prefer an inexpensive insulated water bottle; If I lose it, I don’t want to feel bad. Fill it up at the ship’s water station every day and you will have cool sips while touring.

7. Pill Case

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I don’t want to miss out on my daily vitamin intake, and let’s face it, most of us have a med or two we need to take daily. I like this 7-day case because it has three compartments for each day. I only need one compartment per day, so my 7-day case is actually a 21-day case. I fill each compartment with 1 day’s worth of vitamins — it’s perfect.

When I’m going away for a long weekend, I only need to slide 1 “day” sleeve into my case instead of a myriad of bottles.

Pro Tip: Pack your prescription medicine in your carry-on luggage. You definitely don’t want them to go missing.

8. Folding Carry-On Bag

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On long-haul flights to my destination, I prefer to only bring one carry-on item. I can stash it in the overhead bid leaving room under the seat to stretch out my feet.

I do, however, pack an additional nylon duffle bag — carry-on size — in my checked luggage. On the return trip, I know there will be extra coming home and repacking never seems to be as successful as the initial effort.

9. Portable Charger

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Even on airplane mode, traveling can take a chunk of juice from your phone and tablet. Long flights where the outlets don’t work, extended touring days, and filming tons of videos can leave your battery drained.

I always pack two Fuel Rod chargers in my carry-on. They are a must have on every adventure. Recharging them overnight has them ready to go when I’m packing for my day. Many airports have a drop station where you can exchange your uncharged rod for one that is fully charged. Although I have never used one, it is a nice benefit that many other portable chargers don’t offer.

10. Rain Jacket

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A lightweight rain jacket that can roll up into a small pouch is always welcome when it’s needed. I typically pack a disposable rain poncho when the weather looks iffy. They take up so little space, they are inexpensive, and they keep you fairly dry. Look for one with a hood for extra protection.

11. Pashmina

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In the evening, a decorative pashmina can dress up an outfit with a simple wrap around the shoulders. It is perfect for guarding against the dining room air conditioning chill. You will also be happy to have it when you stroll around the deck watching the sun go down as you set sail for your next port of call.

Things You Can Leave At Home

Packing For Cruise Ships

Small-ship cruising is one of my favorite ways to travel. Packing for an extended cruise can seem overwhelming, but if you plan carefully and pack strategically, you will have everything you need to sit back, relax, and watch the world float past your veranda.

For even more cruise packing tips, check out:

• How To Pack For A Shoulder Season Alaska Cruise
• Top 11 Items To Pack For Your Cruise’s Beach Excursion
• The Ultimate Cruise Packing List