Welcome to Cruise Blog's Weekly Roundup for the week of January 23, 2026!
This is a helpful post covering everything you may have missed from this week, including a review of the Carnival Vista cruise ship and what an inside room on Disney's oldest cruise ship is like.
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I cruised with Carnival and Margaritaville at Sea. Both do things well, but one is a better value for the money
Carnival and Margaritaville at Sea are two of the cheapest cruise lines that offer guests everything from nonstop entertainment to multi-course meals and comfortable accommodations. Which one, however, is right for your next cruise?
Elizabeth has enjoyed her cruises on Carnival and Margaritaville at Sea. Carnival's newer ships are packed with activities, dining options, and entertainment, while Margaritaville is ideal for those looking to kick back, relax, and unwind with a fruity cocktail.
Still, despite their inherent differences, both Carnival and Margaritaville at Sea are budget-friendly options, but one is a better value for the money in her opinion.
I tried Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Pricey, but I thought it was worth it
In late December, Royal Caribbean opened its first-ever private beach club. Situated on the dreamy Paradise Island in Nassau, the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island offers guests an exclusive beach day in an otherwise unpopular port of call.
Unlike Perfect Day at CocoCay, access to the beach club isn’t included in Royal Caribbean’s base fare. Essentially, it operates like a traditional shore excursion, though it promises guests an elevated, resort-style experience, complete with attentive service, lounge chairs, multiple pools, local cuisine, and more.
Wess Jacobs recently visited the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island on a cruise aboard Utopia of the Seas and shared his review with Cruise Blog. While he noted a few areas where Royal Caribbean could make improvements, he praised the club as a welcome addition to Nassau, offering cruisers a compelling reason to visit the Bahamian capital.
Read more: I tried Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Pricey, but I thought it was worth it
I chose an inside cabin on my Disney cruise because it was the cheapest option. I loved my windowless room on the Disney Magic
Windowless, inside cabins on cruise ships are controversial. Some passengers love them, while others steer clear of the dark little caves. Generally speaking, Elizabeth falls somewhere in between. Although interior staterooms aren't her favorite, she won't avoid booking one if the price is right.
Last year, for example, she set sail on a short cruise aboard Disney Magic. Despite being Disney Cruise Line's oldest and smallest ship, voyages on the 27-year-old vessel aren’t always affordable. So, when she saw a cruise advertised for less than $2,000, she immediately emailed her travel agent to lock in the rate.
The 3-night cruise to The Bahamas was $1,585.78, including taxes, port fees, and gratuities, for two people. It was far from cheap, but it was more affordable than comparable sailings on newer ships like the Disney Wish.
Is Carnival Vista a good cruise ship? I spent 5 days onboard to find out
Carnival Cruise Line isn't known for building the world's biggest or most technologically advanced cruise ships, but that doesn't stop millions from embarking on their fun ships annually.
Whether you're a first-time cruiser or seasoned veteran, the line remains a popular choice for its overall value, laid-back atmosphere, and tasty fast-casual dining options.
In 2023, Elizabeth set sail on a 5-night cruise on Carnival Vista. Although it isn't the newest ship in the fleet, the Vista Class ship delivers a lively and entertaining experience with unique onboard amenities and an easygoing vibe. Read her review in the article below!
Read more: Is Carnival Vista a good cruise ship? I spent 5 days onboard to find out
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Having sailed on over 30 cruises across different lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, Margaritaville at Sea, and Princess, she loves sharing her insight and expertise on all things cruising!
In addition to writing for Cruise.Blog, Elizabeth has bylines in Business Insider, Royal Caribbean Blog, and Cruiseshipfood.com.
