Depending on the cruise line, time of year, ship, and itinerary, the cost of taking a cruise vacation can greatly vary. 

Staying in, for instance, a balcony cabin on the newest ship during the summer can often cost a pretty penny, perhaps over $1,400 per person for a week-long cruise.

Sailing does not always have to be expensive, and it’s certainly possible to cruise for less than $100 per person per day. However, planning a cheap cruise vacation does require advance planning and self control once you board the ship!

When it comes to family cruises, few names are as well-known as Carnival Cruise Line. The popular cruise line boasts a fleet of 27 ships, with two more expected to join the fleet in 2025. 

Not all Carnival ships were designed equally, though. While older ships have a more intimate atmosphere, newer vessels are jam-packed with more activities and restaurants. 

Carnival Cruise Line is just five months away from debuting its highly-anticipated private destination, Celebration Key. To mark this exciting milestone, the cruise line has released new videos and construction progress photos to share in their excitement.

Cruise ship drinks aren't cheap. A single cocktail can cost upwards of $16 on lines like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity! Drink packages aren't always worth the investment, either. So, how can you save money and get free drinks on your cruise? 

You might have to get savvy, but you can definitely find ways to score free drinks on your upcoming cruise. For example, I won a bottle of champagne after winning the "Yes or No" game show on a Princess cruise. 

Here are 15 ways to get free drinks on your cruise. Cheers to a budget-friendly vacation at sea! 

Royal Caribbean offers two types of dining experiences in the Main Dining Room: Traditional and My Time Dining. My Time (or Anytime) is the more flexible option and allows guests to dine at their preferred time within a designated window, rather than eating at the same time each night. 

You will make your dining time decision when booking. If you choose Traditional, you'll select one of two or three set times. The early seating usually occurs around 5:00pm to 5:30pm, with the latest seating taking place around 8:00pm to 8:30pm. 

The third installment in Royal Caribbean's Icon Class will debut in Barcelona in July 2026. That's right–Legend of the Seas is heading to Europe!

Legend of the Seas will be the first Icon Class ship to offer European cruises. Icon started its inaugural season sailing from Florida, and Star of the Seas will do the same in August. 

The food is arguably one of the best parts of any cruise, and Carnival delivers when it comes to variety and quality. From casual poolside bites from Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina to indulgent three-course meals in the Main Dining Room, there’s something to satisfy every craving. 

While alcohol is plentiful on cruise ships, some may wonder whether you can bring weed on your cruise or not. 

Though weed is legal in numerous states across the United States, marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, meaning that it's also prohibited on cruise ships since terminals are considered federal facilities. 

After 27 cruises, I've learned that the small details can make a huge difference in ensuring your vacation goes smoothly. 

Unfortunately, I've made my fair share of mistakes along the way over my two-decade cruising career. For example, I've booked shore excursions at the last minute and paid significantly more than I would have if I purchased the tour in advance. I've also pushed myself too hard trying to see and do everything, only to end up exhausted. 

After years of trial and error, here are 10 sure-fire ways to make your cruise vacation even better.