Cruise Tips

Expert cruise advice on everything from choosing the right cruise line and itinerary to packing and planning your shore excursions.

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A group of people with luggage stand near a bustling cruise terminal. Palm trees and a majestic ship are visible in the background. Overlaid text reads "7 Confessions of a Baggage Handler.

7 Confessions of a Cruise Baggage Handler

Doug Parker October 29, 2024

A cruise ship sails towards the viewer on a calm ocean under a clear sky. A large sign above reads "CRUISE LINE SHAREHOLDER PERKS" in bold white letters, enticing those with cruise line stock to enjoy exclusive benefits amidst the tranquil waters and azure skies.

Cruise Line Stock Benefits: Perks for Carnival, Royal Caribbean, & Norwegian

Orlando Martinez October 28, 2024

Four cruise ships are pictured, each in separate quadrants. Text in the center reads "9 Best Cruise Lines for Adults" against a white background. The majestic ships glide through the ocean under clear blue skies, showcasing why they're considered the best for adult travelers.

The 9 Best Cruise Lines for Adults

Orlando Martinez October 27, 2024

A large white cruise ship glides across a calm ocean under a colorful sunset sky with pink and orange clouds, offering the perfect backdrop for enjoying European cruise tips.

15 First Time European Cruise Tips

Doug Parker October 22, 2024

View from a ship's deck at Carnival Cove reveals the ocean and a clear blue sky. Lifeboats are mounted above the deck, and a trail of white foam follows behind, almost as if inviting passengers to consider a cruise upgrade or relax on their private balcony.

Why Carnival’s Cove Balconies Are the Best-Kept Secret

Heather Baxter October 18, 2024

aft balcony

9 Pros & Cons of an Aft Balcony Cabin

Richard Simms October 17, 2024

An aerial view of the coastal area in Freeport, Bahamas, showcases a large cruise ship docked at the port. The port is surrounded by various buildings, roads, palm trees, and parking lots. The coastline features turquoise water stretching to a partly cloudy sky on the horizon.

11 Cruise Ports That Passengers Love to Hate

Doug Parker October 17, 2024

A large MSC cruise ship is anchored in clear turquoise water near the pristine Ocean Cay Marine Reserve under a blue sky. In the foreground, a red frozen drink in a tall glass is visible.

Guide to MSC Cruise Drink Packages: Costs, Pros, and Tips

Heather Baxter October 14, 2024

A view of the Carnival Sunrise deck featuring a swimming pool with dolphin designs, lounge chairs, dining tables, and sun loungers. In the background are water slides, and the sun is setting behind a partly cloudy sky. Perfect for photos before its 2024 dry dock.

Cruisers Reveal the 11 Worst Habits of Fellow Passengers (Are You Guilty?)

Doug Parker October 9, 2024

Illustration of a passenger standing on a dock facing a large cruise ship with two directional signs above them. Each sign reads "PAY TIPS" and "OPT OUT," hinting at the debate over cruise gratuity charges. Palm trees and lamp posts line the dock under a colorful sky.

Cruise Gratuity Charges: Fair or Unfair to Passengers?

Doug Parker October 5, 2024

Disney Cruise Line to Exit Australia After Upcoming 2025-26 Season

Disney Destiny Floats Out at Meyer Werft, November Launch on Track

Princess Cruises Expands 1920s Speakeasy Magic Show to Star Princess

Cruise Passenger Drops Into Ocean at Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, Quickly Rescued

Cruise Passenger Takes Royal Caribbean to Court After Waterslide Accident

Star Princess Finishes Sea Trials, Prepares for Inaugural Sailings

Royal Caribbean Scrambles for New Godmother After Diana Ross Backs Out

Carnival Adds Short Cruises on Mardi Gras, Details Carnival Festivale Itineraries