Planning

While it's important to budget for cruise add-ons like alcoholic beverages and shore excursions, one key part of cruise planning is transportation.

Living in North Carolina means I'm not a short drive to Fort Lauderdale or Miami. Instead, I must factor in the cost of airfare. 

Drink packages are divisive among cruisers. Some love their convenience, while others think they're a waste of money and encourage unruly behavior. 

Growing up, drink packages were non-negotiable for my family — I can't tell you how many virgin piña coladas and strawberry daiquiris my sister and I sipped on while sailing through the Caribbean! Because of my childhood experiences, having unlimited access to beverages on vacation quickly became one of my favorite parts about a cruise. 

In 2024, more than 4 million passengers set sail from Port Everglades. While it's not as popular as Miami or Port Canaveral, travelers from all over the world continue to flock to Fort Lauderdale as a gateway to the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Though some cruisers live within driving distance of South Florida, others rely on airfare to reach the bustling port. Thankfully, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is less than five miles from Port Everglades, making it convenient for travelers. 

Don’t give up on a European vacation in 2025! 

Celebrity, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Royal Caribbean are popular choices for guests wishing to explore the dreamy Greek Isles. 

Here’s our take on which Greece cruise you should book to fit your travel style in 2025.

I took my first cruise to Greece last year and was mesmerized by the blue waters, white-washed buildings, and local cuisine. However, I made one massive mistake: cruising at the wrong time of the year. 

Because my partner is a teacher, our travel schedule typically revolves around the school calendar. As such, we booked our 7-night Greek Isles cruise for the end of July. Before our cruise ended, we agreed the heat ruined our trip and wouldn't consider another Greece cruise during the warmer summer months.

When is the best time to go on a cruise? This may be your question considering that spring is approaching and temperatures are rising. But it is important to keep in mind that just because we are getting closer to warmer months does not mean that it is the best time to book your cruise.

There are many factors that determine the best time to go on a cruise. The price, crowds, weather, excursions, and activities are all things to consider when deciding what time of the year to travel.

3-day cruises are a great way to take an affordable getaway. Rather than spend a fortune on a weeklong cruise or cut corners to make it more affordable, these short cruises offer the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure without breaking the bank. 

Have you ever dreaded disembarkation day, wishing you could stay onboard for another cruise? Many cruisers may find solace in booking a future sailing, but for those who aren't ready for the excitement to end, a back-to-back cruise can be the perfect solution. 

Instead of packing for a weekend or weeklong getaway, you can extend your vacation without the hassle of booking multiple flights or worrying about finding a hotel between voyages.

You aren't forced off the ship on port days. Whether you've been to that specific destination before or want a rest day, you're free to stay on board when your ship is in port. 

In fact, staying on the ship is a great way to enjoy the amenities with fewer crowds. Additionally, some ships offer special activities and deals for those who remain onboard. For example, if you want a relaxing afternoon in the spa, you can often save money by booking a treatment on a port day. Alternatively, you may want to enjoy the pool deck with fewer crowds compared to a busy sea day.