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This article was last updated on February 28, 2021.

There are two types of canceled cruises: those canceled by your cruise line and those you cancel yourself, either of which might happen for a number of reasons.

If you're wondering about your refund in either circumstance -- what your options are and how much you can expect to get back and when -- we've done the research for you for the eight largest oceangoing cruise lines.

Today, many cruise lines have developed their own applications to streamline the check-in process, as well as enhance the onboard experience. Rather than have to carry around a paper copy of the ship's schedule, many cruise lines allow you to access it on the go at the tips of your fingers. 

Depending on which cruise line you're sailing with, you might be able to do even more with the app, like open your stateroom door, make dining reservations, order food to your exact location on the ship, and even browse menus. 

In the wake of a months-long cruise industry hiatus and thousands of canceled voyages, you might be hesitant to book your next sailing. However, we think there's no better time. Here are 10 reasons why.

The process for cruises to resume is slow going, but the outlook is bright for 2021, with cruise lines staffing ships and familiarizing themselves with new requirements that have been established by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you have questions about what to do on a cruise, don't worry: you'll be anything but bored.

Activities on a cruise ship run the gamut from relaxing and quiet to exhilarating and high-energy. Below, we've listed the top 40 most popular and, perhaps, surprising cruise activities if someone you know needs a little convincing to give sailing a try.

So, what is there to do on a cruise ship? Check out our picks, and once onboard, check your daily schedule for a list of what's happening, where and when.

Ah, packing -- one of the most hated parts of preparing for a cruise. It's necessary and inevitable, but it's also a massive headache.

Below, we've compiled some key bits of wisdom from our combined decades at sea to help make the process less painful, whether you're a minimalist or a chronic overpacker. Check out our tips on how to pack for a cruise.

Cruise lines are working diligently to resume voyages within the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's extensive Conditional Sailing Framework, which lays out the process under which ships will be granted permission to restart sailings to and from U.S. ports.

But, under the framework, cruisers could be opening themselves up to risks -- in terms of privacy and financials -- that stem far beyond contracting a virus.

From fruity to smoky, alcoholic beverages are an integral part of cruising for many passengers.

We understand that drink preferences are highly subjective, but below, we've shared some of our favorites, including a couple of nonalcoholic options we love. Bottoms up!

Even if you're an avid traveler, your first cruise can be daunting. Because ships are self-contained on some days and end up in different locations on others, there are many moving parts that make cruising different from other vacations you might have tried.

We've rounded up 20 things first-time cruisers might not know before they go so you can be ahead of the game on your inaugural voyage.