Articles

Cruise

Article / Cruise

Which cruise should I take: Western or Eastern Caribbean?

Looking at cruise brochures, it can be hard to differentiate between the various Caribbean itineraries. But once you know what you’re looking at, distinct differences emerge.…

Article / Cruise

Which cruise should I take: Carnival or Norwegian?

These two cruise lines have a lot in common: huge ships that attract families with kids, as well as couples and singles. Their appeal boils down to plenty of choices and features like…

Article / Cruise

How to Avoid Getting Seasick on a Cruise

While a cruise ship in rough seas can be unpleasant, it will rarely result in a cancelled voyage. However, it may make nausea-prone passengers seasick and force the ship to skip ports.…

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How to Tip on a Cruise Ship

A standout cabin steward, attentive waiter, or superior bartender can make a big impact on your cruise. But how should you compensate them for their hard work? Tipping on a cruise ship…

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Can I Bring Alcohol on a Cruise Ship?

You’re cruising through the Mediterranean, and you stop in Nice. In a wine shop, you see a gorgeous bottle of French rosé, and immediately picture yourself sipping some on…

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The Cost of Internet on Cruise Ships

The ability, and cost, of staying connected wirelessly varies by cruise line and ship. Most lines offer Internet access via Wi-Fi or computer stations located throughout the ships in…

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How to Use Your Cell Phone on a Cruise Ship

If you plan to use your cell phone on a cruise ship, it’s important to know that once you sail away from the embarkation port, your cell phone will go into roaming mode, which…

Article / Cruise

Cruise Line Dress Codes

The days of tuxedos and evening gowns are gone on most lines, replaced by suits, cocktail dresses, and even jeans. More and more cruise lines are following in Norwegian Cruise…

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Is it Worth it to Buy a Cruise Line Drink Package?

You may have noticed that cruise lines offer drink packages and wondered whether they're a good deal. The answer is simple but requires some math on your part: It depends on how many…

Article / Cruise

When is the Best Time to Cruise?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer for when to sail: It depends on your own personal priorities. Whether you’re looking to avoid the rough seas or score a bargain deal,…

Article / Cruise

Cruise Ships of the Future

Fifty years ago, no one thought cruise ships would evolve into 1,200-foot behemoths capable of carrying 5,000 passengers. And while we’re excited by the innovations on new ships…

Article / Cruise

12 Fun Things on Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Quantum of the Seas, has a bevy of never-before-seen twists that are pleasing devotées of mass cruising. 

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How Does Hurricane Season Affect Cruises?

For a full six months of the year, the Caribbean is hit by an average of six hurricanes. Cruising during hurricane season means great deals from the cruise lines, but there are…

Article / Cruise

9 Tips for Cruising With Small Children

Cruises are great family vacations because kids are catered to as well as adults. Most ships offer supervised activities, and the biggest vessels have several spacious playrooms geared…

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Mix and Match Cruise Vacations: That Include Both Land or River Cruise Add-Ons

One week hopping ports in the Caribbean? That's old hat. To lure more customers, the major cruise lines are offering a slew of new land and river cruise options to their itineraries.

Article / Cruise

The 5 Best Cruise Lines for Kids

No matter how old your kids are, few family vacations are easier than hopping aboard a cruise ship — you unpack once, and you don’t have to juggle plane and train schedules…

Article / Cruise

7 Rookie Mistakes First-Time Cruisers Make

If you’re new to cruising, don’t fall prey to these potential pitfalls. Here are the top nine mistakes cruise newbies make and how to avoid them for smooth sailing, from…

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The 5 Best Restaurants on Carnival Ships

Just how far has Carnival come from the days of bland buffets and wan salad bars? Well, if you book a cruise on one of the line’s newer ships, you’re bound to be pleasantly…

Article / Cruise

7 Popular Tourist Traps — and Where to Go Instead

Ever wonder why tourist traps are so popular? Sometimes, it’s as simple as name recognition, created by effective marketing, and a lack of knowledge about other choices.

Article / Timing Your Trip

5 Tips for Booking a Cruise at the Right Time

When is the best time to buy your cruise? There are a number of factors to consider — from time of year you want to travel to the region you’re sailing — before…

Article / Cruise

Everything You Need to Know About American Queen Steamboat Co.

This small-ship line has two paddle wheelers plying U.S. rivers. Are either right for your next vacation? Read on to find out.

Article / Cruise

How to Make Your Tiny Cabin Feel Like a Castle

While cruise ships are lauded for their activities, entertainment, and food options aplenty, they aren’t exactly known for spacious accommodations. Just because you’ve…

Article / Cruise

How to Choose a Caribbean Itinerary

Cruise itineraries in the Caribbean are divided by eastern, southern, and western options. For cruisers who haven't sailed these warm waters, the designations — which…

Article / Cruise

5 Cruise Cabin Locations You Really Don’t Want

I’m a light sleeper — a very light sleeper. If you’re like me, choosing a hotel room’s location is extremely important … and cruise ship cabin real…

Article / Cruise

4 Things You Need to Know About Getting a Bargain on Your Next Cruise

Booking a cruise is complicated — prices change based on cabin availability, and determining whether you’re getting the best deal is tough. Here, our best advice for…