While Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Tampa are the four most popular cruise ports in Florida, did you know you can also sail out of Jacksonville?

Although you may not have as many ship options compared to itineraries departing from South Florida, it is convenient for those who may not want to drive the extra five hours to Miami. Plus, since it's a smaller port, you will not have to deal with as much traffic. 

While those who play their cards right will find that cruising can be an affordable vacation, others may have a little extra cash to burn or want to set their upcoming cruise apart from previous sailings. 

Perhaps you're celebrating an anniversary or graduation and want to make your next cruise feel more lavish than before. Thankfully, you can customize your vacation to meet your elevated desires. There's nothing quite like waking up in a large suite or being greeted at the airport by a private driver. 

Despite four wonderful cruises on Royal Caribbean, I have now become an avid MSC Cruises fan. This may be shocking to some; in fact, I am a little surprised myself by the switch.

While I really enjoyed my Royal Caribbean cruises and love the design and amenities of the Oasis Class ships, like Wonder of the Seas, I have found MSC Cruises to be a compelling alternative, mainly due to the incredible value they provide. 

They say everything’s bigger in Texas - and that’s certainly the case for the newest cruise ship in town, Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Jubilee!

After sailing on Carnival's Excel, Vista, and Conquest Classes, I decided to book a cruise on their oldest, most seasoned class at sea.