Planning

In fiscal year 2025, more than 8.6 million passengers sailed from Port Canaveral, Florida, solidifying its status as the world’s busiest cruise port. 

The port attracts travelers from around the world, many of whom choose to stay at nearby pre-cruise hotels to avoid missing their ship due to last-minute flight mishaps. 

While it's easy to arrange your own transportation to the cruise port, some prefer staying at a hotel that offers convenient shuttle services.

Let me get one thing straight: boats and ships aren't the same thing. Still, many of the technical terms used in maritime navigation apply to both. 

For example, the back of a vessel is called the stern, and instead of left or right, the sides are referred to as port (left) and starboard (right).

One of the most frequently asked questions when planning a cruise is, "Do I need a passport?" 

To understand whether a passport is necessary or not, you must first understand the different types of cruises. 

For example, if you are taking an open-jaw (or one-way) cruise from Miami to San Diego or Fort Lauderdale to San Juan, a valid passport is required because you are embarking and disembarking from different ports. 

At what age should you throw in the lido deck towel and stop cruising? 

Today, cruising is more popular than ever. However, many cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, have noticed a shift in consumers. 

According to Royal Caribbean Group's Q2 2025 earnings call, Millennials and Gen Z travelers make up roughly half of the company's customer base. 

If you are preparing for a cruise vacation, you may be wondering: What is a passport card vs book? Although both are official U.S. travel documents issued by the Department of State, they serve different purposes. 

For starters, passport books are more widely accepted and can be used for all domestic and international travel, including flights, cruises, and border crossings. 

When planning a cruise, choosing the right line is as important as the destination. 

Each cruise line has its own style, atmosphere, and amenities. Some of the big names — including Royal Caribbean and Carnival — cater to families, offering waterparks, kid-friendly activities, and more, while others focus on adult-oriented experiences. So how do you pick the best cruise line?

I've been cruising since I was five years old. While I don't remember every aspect of my weeklong Disney cruise, I remember the excitement of boarding the ship and wanting to explore every nook and cranny. 

Over the years, my love for cruising has grown into a full-fledged obsession. On any given day, I can be caught browsing at least one cruise line's website, trying to fit another vacation into my busy schedule. Or, at least, trying to convince my partner that one more cruise wouldn't break the bank. 

Cruising is one of the best ways to travel for many reasons, including its convenience, the ability to visit multiple destinations in a single trip, and the comfort of having everything you need right on board.