We share a lot of cruise updates and advice on Cruise Blog, and this is a weekly roundup of everything you may have missed from this week.
If you are busy but want to keep up with all the helpful cruise advice we share, this is an easy-to-digest look at our recent articles.
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I paid $5,400 for a controversial suite on Princess' newest ship
Would you pay over $5,000 for a cruise ship suite with little to no privacy?
Normally, you'd expect a stateroom with that price tag to offer luxurious amenities and expansive ocean views. However, Elizabeth's Reserve Collection Cabana Mini-Suite on Sun Princess sat on a shared deck.
Do the benefits, including a private sundeck and exclusive dining room, make up for the lack of privacy? Here are her thoughts.
Although I enjoyed the entertainment and food, Carnival Cruise Line is not for me
Posting to the r/Cruise thread on Reddit, one user (@skyelardb) shared details about their recent cruise onboard Carnival Valor, describing the cruise as a “pretty horrific experience.”
Having sailed previously as a child with Carnival Cruise Line about 13 years prior, @skyelardb was eager to see how their cruise experience would compare as an adult.
Here’s why the Reddit user said cruising, especially with Carnival, is absolutely not for them and why they will never go again.
MSC Cruises revamps its loyalty program
MSC Cruises recently announced changes to its loyalty program, known as MSC Voyagers Club.
In a press release on November 7, 2024, MSC Cruises unveiled the addition of Blue Diamond status. The new status sits above existing levels in the MSC Voyagers Club, providing exclusive benefits to the cruise line’s most loyal cruisers.
Read more: MSC Cruises revamps its loyalty program with new benefits and a new level
The worst part of flying could easily ruin part of your cruise
Flying to your cruise’s embarkation port is not an uncommon practice.
Unless you live within driving distance of the cruise port, you’ll most likely be heading to the airport at the start of your vacation. Those flying across the pond, or further, will need to adjust to huge time zone changes, which can be difficult and disruptive.
Here’s why you need to prepare appropriately for jet lag to ensure your next cruise isn’t ruined, including a few successful strategies Allie recently tried on her trip to Australia.
Read more: The worst part of flying to Australia could easily ruin part of your cruise
Inside Princess Cruises' new suites-only area
A new concept that debuted on Sun Princess is The Sanctuary.
While not a traditional "ship-within-a-ship" concept, The Sanctuary offers high-paying guests an exclusive outdoor retreat with a private pool, bar, comfortable lounges, and more.
Here's a sneak peek of what guests can expect when staying in The Sanctuary Collection on Sun Princess.
Read more: Inside Princess Cruises' new suites-only area that is just like an ultra-luxury cruise
I’m a teacher who just started cruising. Here’s why it’s my new favorite way to travel
Sarah's fiancée introduced her to the world of cruising, and in October 2023, she started her journey as a cruiser.
Over the last year, she has taken 5 cruises, and it is by far her favorite way to travel, whether she's traveling to Europe or the Caribbean.
If you’re a teacher, here is why you should consider taking a cruise for your next break.
Read more: I’m a teacher who just started cruising. Here’s why it’s my new favorite way to travel
What is a virtual balcony cabin? Pros and cons
Virtual balconies are exclusive to Royal Caribbean ships and offer an innovative way to bring ocean views into the stateroom without the price tag of a traditional ocean view or balcony cabin.
Instead of standard windowless interior rooms, virtual balcony cabins feature an 80-inch LED television screen that provides live HD views from outside the ship.
Read more: What is a virtual balcony cabin? Pros and cons of this unique experience
Best children's cruise ships the whole family can enjoy
Cruises make for the ultimate family vacation. From included youth programming to adult-only sun decks and adrenaline-pumping activities for teens, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Still, not all ships are built equally.
If you don't know where to start, consider these ships that offer amenities for the whole family, from young toddlers to teens, grandparents, and beyond.
Read more: Best children's cruise ships the whole family can enjoy
Bad things that happen on cruise ships
Bad things can happen at sea, even though cruise vacations are a time to relax and recharge from your everyday life. While we'd like to think everything will go smoothly, it's important to be aware of the hiccups that can disrupt your time onboard.
Here's a list of 11 problems that could impact your cruise journey.
Read more: Bad things that happen on cruise ships
Carnival Cruise Line cabin guide
Before you can begin the countdown to your Carnival cruise, you have to choose your stateroom.
Those looking to stretch their budget as far as possible will likely be interested in an inside cabin, while those with extra money to burn or looking to make their cruise even more memorable may want to splurge on a suite.
Here's our guide to Carnival Cruise Line cabins to help you make the best decision for your next cruise vacation.
Read more: Carnival Cruise Line cabin guide: interior, oceanview, balcony, and suites
Angie Vognild
Angie Vognild has a love for cruising, with her first cruise at just one year old. Since then, she has traveled to nearly 40 countries and been on over 30 cruises. Her favorite cruises were to the Holy Land on Odyssey of the Seas in 2022 and Japan on Spectrum of the Seas in 2019.
