Planning

While mega-ships like Icon of the Seas offer an unparalleled experience with their vast array of amenities and entertainment options, smaller ships have their own unique charm. 

Though you won't find roller coasters, water slides, or countless dining options, the intimate atmosphere, affordable fares, and destination-focused itineraries create a relaxed and personal cruising experience. 

With 7-night cruises onboard Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas starting at $1,390 per person for an inside stateroom, many may assume that taking a cruise is out of their budget. 

The demand for cruise vacations is so high that the industry has seen a steady increase in pricing over the past few years. Plus, inventory has been selling out further in advance, leading to fewer last-minute deals. 

Tired of visiting the same generic pool and atrium bars on your cruises? Step up your cocktail game by exploring some of the most unique bars at sea. 

From floating bars with panoramic views to futuristic bars with robotic bartenders, each cruise line offers a distinctive drinking experience. While there's nothing wrong with visiting the classic martini bar or your go-to poolside spot, venturing beyond the standard offerings can elevate your cruise. 

Once you’ve decided to book a cruise to Alaska, the next step is to start thinking about how you want to spend your time ashore. Every cruise line offers a variety of shore excursions, and they can be a great way to explore a destination, learn more about the places you are visiting, and have peace of mind that the travel logistics are handled for you. 

Cutting corners to save money on a cruise vacation can be worthwhile, especially if you’re trying to stretch your budget. There are many ways to cut costs when planning a cruise, such as booking a cheaper cabin or forgoing a drink package.

Moreover, cruising continues to be one of the most affordable and convenient ways to travel. Although costs have certainly increased over the last few years, there is great value in cruising with meals, entertainment, transportation, and accommodations included in the base cruise fare.

Navigating political conversations on a cruise can be difficult. Nobody wants to argue with friends and family while on vacation; however, political topics are more likely to arise with the 2024 presidential election nearing. Though avoiding all controversial topics is the best way to keep the peace, sometimes it's impossible to steer clear of political discussions altogether.

It's never too early (or late) to start preparing for your next cruise. 

Typically, deal-hungry consumers flock to Amazon around Prime Day and Black Friday; however, the site has a massive summer sale for those looking to buy new luggage and travel accessories. 

From portable chargers to magnetic hooks and an 8-piece luggage set, Amazon's current sale is a treasure trove for travelers looking to save over 50% off cruise essentials. 

What happens if your cruise crosses paths with a hurricane? Thankfully, the chances of you coming face-to-face with a monster storm are minimal. In the days leading up to a sailing, cruise lines will monitor the weather and make any necessary changes to the itinerary, keeping passengers and crew out of harm's way. 

While luxury cruise lines have menus crafted by Michelin-star chefs, they're not the most affordable vacation option on the market. Sailing on a mainstream line doesn't mean you have to sacrifice a high-quality dining experience, though. From nightly meals in the Main Dining Room to fast-casual bites by the pool, the food is one of the most highly-anticipated aspects of any cruise.