Planning

If you're going on a cruise in 2024, whether it's in March or December, there are some things that you can start doing NOW to get into the cruise spirit! 

While there are certain tasks that you have to save until closer to your sail date — like actually packing your suitcase — it's advisable to begin thinking ahead for others. If you wait until the last minute, you might have to rush to renew your passport or be disappointed with the remaining shore excursion options. 

Planning cruises to unique destinations around the world is exciting. While there's nothing wrong with a tropical vacation to the Bahamas or Caribbean, there are so many different regions that can be explored via cruise ship. 

When planning on venturing to a new place, however, you must research what the weather is like. If you are prone to seasickness or are concerned about a bucket list port of call getting canceled due to poor weather, some bodies of water might not make for an ideal cruise. 

If you're sailing on a cruise to The Bahamas, you are likely stopping at Nassau. Situated on the island of New Providence, Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and offers cruise ship passengers numerous different activities and tours that cater to different interests.  

With mega-ships like Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas and Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras calling Port Canaveral home, it's no wonder that over four million cruise passengers visited here in 2022, making it the world's busiest cruise port.

Unlike Miami or Fort Lauderdale, however, the closest airport isn't just down the road. If you have to fly to Florida for your cruise out of Port Canaveral, it'll likely require a little bit more planning. 

Southampton Cruise Port is located in Hampshire, England and serves more than two million passengers each year. The cruise port is the largest passenger port in the UK and is home to five passenger terminals: QEII, Mayflower, Horizon, City Cruise, and Ocean. All terminals are located near the city center.

The Port of Southampton is also the busiest cruise port in the UK and serves as a major hub for Northern Europe. Ferries and cargo ships also depart from Southampton Cruise Port, making it a very busy port city for England.

When it comes to preparing for a cruise, we often think about things such as picking an itinerary, choosing shore excursions, deciding on whether or not to purchase various drink or spa packages, and packing! However, another thing to add to the cruise planning checklist might be your nails.

What are some options when it comes to having pretty nails for a cruise vacation? Here are some tips and tricks for having the best nails for your upcoming cruise sailing. 

Stuck between a cruise to The Bahamas and one that sails further south to the Caribbean?

While cruises sail all over the world, from Alaska to Northern Europe, Asia, the Mediterranean, and even the South Pacific, if you are looking for a tropical getaway, you are probably debating between The Bahamas and Caribbean. 

It can be hard to decide, especially since both promise white-sand beaches and fun shore excursions. Plus, you will find cruises to both year-round. 

If you are in the process of planning the perfect cruise for your family, you might be debating what staterooms are available for you to choose from. 

You're in luck: cruises have a wide variety of accommodations to appease all budgets. Whether you are looking to cruise on a budget or splurge on a luxurious suite, there is the perfect cabin for all travel parties!

Are you curious as to how many people will be onboard your cruise ship? 

Maybe you are hoping to score a last-minute upgrade or just want to relax on the lido deck with fewer people around. 

It is pretty common for cruise ships to sail at full capacity, even if you are sailing during the shoulder season. In fact, you should not be surprised if your ship is actually sailing over capacity, as some cabins are able to accommodate more than two guests.