Planning

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. 

I've been cruising to the Caribbean since I was five years old, starting with my first voyage: a 7-night sailing to the Eastern Caribbean onboard the Disney Magic, calling at St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Disney's Castaway Cay.

Five years later, my family embarked on our second cruise. Once again, we sailed to the Eastern Caribbean; however, we ventured from Disney, sailing on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas. Since then I've been on 19 other cruises, most of which have been to the Caribbean. 

Just like within the airline industry, it's not uncommon to hear about cruise lines overselling voyages as a buffer for last-minute cancelations. Unlike flights, however, moving passengers to another sailing isn't easy. 

Though being booted off a flight can derail plans, your entire vacation, whether a 3-night getaway to The Bahamas or weeklong sailing around the Mediterranean, will likely be ruined if you're denied boarding at the terminal. 

St. Maarten is one of the most well-known cruise ports in the Caribbean. Often a stop on 7-night itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean, its popularity stems from the stunning beaches, vibrant towns, and diverse culinary scene. 

Even if you've been before, there are numerous activities to keep guests with varying interests satisfied during their visit. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach day, cultural tour, or unique experience at the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit, St. Maarten offers something for everyone.