Growing up, I cruised with both Royal Caribbean and Disney. However, as a child, I was unaware of the difference in pricing. Now as an adult funding my own cruise obsession, I've become more conscious about seeking out the best value for my money.

This year, I sailed on two of Royal Caribbean's and Disney's oldest ships to compare their offerings. Though the price point was similar, Royal Caribbean offered the best overall value. 

While I consider myself a seasoned traveler and cruiser, this year pushed me to new limits, and each voyage had its own challenges and rewards. 

In 2024, I sailed on 11 cruises to destinations such as Alaska, The Bahamas, and Europe, spending more than 50 days away from home. I explored new-to-me cruise lines and discovered different ports of call. Still, I have some tried-and-true routines that never fail me. 

Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay is a slice of paradise in the Bahamas known for its beautiful beaches and array of activities. Recently, I took my 60-year-old dad to Royal Caribbean’s private island for the first time since its multi-million dollar renovation. 

We were excited to spend a day together at the island, and I was especially looking forward to introducing him to some of my favorite spots, including South Beach's floating bar and the Snack Shack. 

While an MSC cruise offers us a chance to get away, relax, and disconnect, you may need to access the internet to keep in touch with family and friends back home. You may even need to check in with work! 

Norwegian Cruise Line was founded in 1966. Their first ship, Sunward, operated as a ferry between Southampton and Gibraltar and was a mere 8,666 tons. It was not until 1971 that they started operating cruise ships that could not carry vehicles. 

Ready to take a Norwegian Cruise Line sailing but want to know the best secrets?

Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the biggest names in the cruising industry and is known for their relaxed "freestyle cruising" model. In addition, they offer their guests great itinerary choices around the world, affordable cruise fares, and so much more. 

The day has arrived—the start of your cruise vacation! To no surprised, everyone is eager to board the ship as quickly and early as they can. 

Cruise lines do a remarkable job loading thousands of passengers in a short couple of hours, navigating through the required processes efficiently, but there are a few things that cruisers can do to make embarkation day even better. Similarly, when it comes time to leave the ship, there are some disembarkation day mistakes you should avoid!

Before this year, I had never cruised on a ship I swore I'd never return to. Though every vacation has pros and cons, the experience always has something redeeming, whether it's a great crew or fun activities. However, my cruise aboard Carnival Elation left me feeling frustrated. By the end of the voyage, I was excited to be disembarking in Jacksonville. 

MSC Cruises is reportedly planning significant changes to its popular unlimited drink packages in 2025, capping the daily number of alcoholic drinks at 15. 

The news was first shared in a post on an MSC Cruises Voyagers Club Facebook Group and included a statement issued by the cruise line: "Discover our updated drinks packages to complement your guests on board experience, starting from 18th December 2024 for sailings from 1st April 2025 onwards."