Cruise In The Know With Information, Tips and Destination Insights

Scott & Julie Simplify The Cruise Experience

Welcome to the ultimate cruise website brought to you by two avid cruisers. This website is your compass to the world of cruising and offers a treasure trove of essential information and insider tips. It features everything from selecting the ideal cruise line for your style and personality to decoding deck plans. We simplify the cruising experience with tips such as packing hacks, embarkation know-how, shore excursion / destination insights plus much more.

Also, you will soon be able to discover a supportive community sharing their first-time cruise experiences. Whether you're a wanderlust-driven dreamer or a practical planner, our user-friendly platform sets sail with you, ensuring your maiden voyage is smooth, enjoyable, and brimming with newfound confidence. Bon voyage to your cruising adventure!

All Aboard With Our Quick Cruise Guide

1. Carnival Cruise Line

Website: Carnival Cruise Line
Pricing: Less Expensive
Customer Focus: Carnival caters to budget-conscious travelers looking for a fun and family-friendly cruise experience.

2. Royal Caribbean International

Website: Royal Caribbean International
Pricing: Medium Expensive
Customer Focus: Royal Caribbean offers a mix of family-friendly and adventure-seeking cruises, perfect for those seeking exciting onboard activities.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line

Website: Norwegian Cruise Line
Pricing: Medium Expensive
Customer Focus: Norwegian Cruise Line targets travelers looking for flexibility and a relaxed atmosphere with a variety of dining options.

4. MSC Cruises

Website: MSC Cruises
Pricing: Less Expensive to Medium Expensive
Customer Focus: MSC offers affordable options for families and couples, with a focus on Mediterranean-style cruising.

5. Princess Cruises

Website: Princess Cruises
Pricing: Medium Expensive
Customer Focus: Princess Cruises provides a refined experience, attracting couples and older travelers who appreciate elegance.

6. Holland America Line

Website: Holland America Line
Pricing: Medium Expensive
Customer Focus: Holland America offers classic cruising with an emphasis on enrichment, drawing mature travelers.

7. Celebrity Cruises

Website: Celebrity Cruises
Pricing: Medium Expensive to Expensive
Customer Focus: Celebrity Cruises targets those seeking modern luxury with upscale dining and amenities.

8. Disney Cruise Line

Website: Disney Cruise Line
Pricing: Expensive
Customer Focus: Disney Cruise Line is tailored for families, providing a magical and immersive experience.

9. Costa Cruises

Website: Costa Cruises
Pricing: Less Expensive to Medium Expensive
Customer Focus: Costa Cruises appeals to travelers looking for a European-style experience with a range of budget options.

10. Cunard Line

Website: Cunard Line
Pricing: Expensive to Very Expensive
Customer Focus: Cunard focuses on luxury cruising, attracting discerning travelers who appreciate elegance and tradition.

11. Viking Ocean Cruises

Website: Viking Ocean Cruises
Pricing: Expensive
Customer Focus: Viking Ocean Cruises offers a refined experience for adults, with a focus on cultural enrichment.

12. Oceania Cruises

Website: Oceania Cruises
Pricing: Expensive
Customer Focus: Oceania Cruises caters to those seeking a luxurious and intimate atmosphere with a culinary focus.

13. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Website: Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Pricing: Very Expensive
Customer Focus: Regent Seven Seas provides all-inclusive luxury cruising for travelers who desire an exquisite experience.

14. Azamara

Website: Azamara
Pricing: Expensive
Customer Focus: Azamara offers destination-focused cruising with a boutique feel, appealing to active travelers.

15. Seabourn Cruise Line

Website: Seabourn Cruise Line
Pricing: Very Expensive
Customer Focus: Seabourn provides ultra-luxury cruising for travelers seeking intimate and personalized experiences.

16. Crystal Cruises

Website: Crystal Cruises
Pricing: Very Expensive
Customer Focus: Crystal Cruises caters to discerning travelers looking for all-inclusive luxury and enriching experiences.

17. Windstar Cruises

Website: Windstar Cruises
Pricing: Expensive
Customer Focus: Windstar offers intimate sailing experiences for travelers who seek a casual yet upscale ambiance.

18. Silversea Cruises

Website: Silversea Cruises
Pricing: Very Expensive
Customer Focus: Silversea offers ultra-luxury cruising, attracting travelers who desire top-tier service and amenities.

19. P&O Cruises (UK)

Website: P&O Cruises (UK)
Pricing: Less Expensive to Medium Expensive
Customer Focus: P&O Cruises (UK) targets British travelers seeking a classic cruise experience.

20. AIDA Cruises

Website: AIDA Cruises
Pricing: Less Expensive to Medium Expensive
Customer Focus: AIDA Cruises appeals to a younger and more active demographic with a casual and vibrant atmosphere.

Please note that cruise prices can vary significantly based on cabin category, destination, and specific sailings. It's advisable to explore each cruise line's website for detailed information on their offerings and pricing options to find the best fit for your preferences and budget.

Why You Should Try Cruising For The First Time

Boat tied up in Katakolon Greece with Carnival Pride in background

Imagine waking up to the gentle rocking of a cruise ship. You dash to the window and open your curtains just in time to see a breathtaking sunrise over the ocean. You're about to embark on an exciting adventure, exploring new destinations and indulging in world-class amenities. If this sounds like a dream, it's time to turn it into reality by trying cruising for the first time. Here's why you should take the plunge and set sail on your maiden voyage.

What Makes Cruising Worth Trying?

Convenience: Cruising is like a vacation on autopilot. Once you're onboard, you can relax and let the ship take care of the rest. No need to worry about packing and unpacking or navigating unfamiliar airports and train stations.
Incredible Variety: Whether you crave tropical island paradises, historic European cities, or rugged Alaskan wilderness, there's a cruise itinerary that caters to your interests. Cruises come in all shapes and sizes, offering diverse destinations to explore.
All-Inclusive Comfort: Most cruise packages include accommodations, meals, and entertainment, often making them more budget-friendly than traditional vacations. This all-inclusive approach allows you to enjoy your trip without constantly reaching for your wallet.
Endless Activities: Cruise ships are floating resorts packed with amenities for all ages and interests. From water parks and zip lines to Broadway-style shows and world-class dining, there's something for everyone on board.
Stress-Free Travel: Unlike traditional travel, cruising minimizes stress by eliminating the need for constant planning. Once you're onboard, you can relax and enjoy the journey while the ship takes you to fascinating ports of call.

Why Everyone Should Try Cruising

Ease of Planning: Planning a cruise is much simpler than coordinating a land-based vacation. Choose your cruise, select your excursions, and pack your bags – that's about it. The cruise line takes care of the logistics.
Diverse Destinations: Cruises offer access to an array of destinations in a single trip. It's like taking a mini-world tour without the hassle of changing hotels or airports.
Activities for All Ages: Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, cruise ships have a wide range of activities for all ages. From supervised kids' clubs to solo traveler meetups and romantic dinners, everyone can find something they enjoy.
Culinary Delights: Dining on a cruise is an adventure in itself. Enjoy gourmet meals at specialty restaurants, indulge in international cuisine at the buffet, or savor room service in the comfort of your cabin.
Endless Entertainment: Cruise ships are known for their entertainment options, from Broadway-style shows and live music to casinos and movie theaters. There's always something happening onboard, ensuring you're never bored.

What It's Like On Your First Cruise

Embarking on your first cruise can be a mix of excitement and uncertainty, but rest assured that cruise lines are experts at making your experience as smooth as possible. Here's what you can expect:

Check-In: The embarkation process is similar to checking in for a flight. You'll provide identification, go through security, and receive your room key or cruise card.
Cabin Comfort: Your cabin will become your home away from home, complete with comfortable bedding, a private bathroom, and a steward who will ensure your room is always tidy.
Dining Delights: Most cruises offer a variety of dining options, from casual buffets to elegant sit-down restaurants. Don't miss the chance to sample different cuisines and flavors.
Entertainment Extravaganza: Cruise ships are packed with entertainment options, including live shows, movies, casinos, and themed parties. There's always something happening onboard, so you'll never be bored.
Shore Excursions: In each port of call, you'll have the opportunity to join shore excursions that allow you to explore the local culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether it's snorkeling in the Caribbean or touring ancient ruins in Europe, there's an excursion for you.
Relaxation: On days at sea, indulge in relaxation at the onboard spa, lounge by the pool, or read a book with the ocean as your backdrop. It's your vacation, and you can spend it however you like.

Your first cruise is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a desire to cruise again. So, why not take the plunge and set sail on a voyage that combines adventure, luxury, and convenience? Cruising offers a unique and enjoyable way to travel, making it an experience everyone should try at least once in their lifetime. Don't wait – your dream cruise is just a booking away!

Top Money-Saving Tips For Your Cruise

Cruising is an incredible way to explore the world while enjoying the comforts of a floating resort. However, it's no secret that cruise vacations can be expensive. The good news is that with a bit of planning and savvy, you can enjoy a fantastic cruise without breaking the bank. In this blog, we'll delve into top money-saving tips for your cruise, including finding the best prices and deals.

Finding The Best Price And Deals For A Cruise

1. Book Early or Late: Cruise pricing tends to follow a bell curve. Booking well in advance or at the last minute can often yield the best deals. Booking early allows you to take advantage of early-bird discounts and secure your preferred cabin. On the other hand, booking last-minute can lead to significant discounts as cruise lines try to fill remaining cabins.

2. Flexible Travel Dates: If your schedule allows, be flexible with your travel dates. Cruises during off-peak seasons or weekdays are generally cheaper than peak-season or weekend departures. Check for deals during shoulder seasons when prices may be more favorable.

3. Subscribe to Cruise Newsletters: Sign up for newsletters and alerts from cruise lines and travel agencies. They often send out exclusive deals, promotions, and last-minute offers to their subscribers.

4. Use Cruise Comparison Websites: Cruise comparison websites like CruiseCritic.com, Cruise.com, and CruiseCompete.com allow you to compare prices across different cruise lines and travel agencies. This helps you find the best deals and promotions available.

5. Consider Repositioning Cruises: Repositioning cruises occur when cruise ships change their homeport for a season. These cruises often offer substantial discounts because they may involve one-way itineraries or fewer port stops.

6. Look for Cruise Packages: Sometimes, cruise lines bundle airfare, pre-cruise hotel stays, and transportation to the cruise port into a package deal. These can be more cost-effective than booking each component separately.

7. Utilize Cruise Line Loyalty Programs: If you're a frequent cruiser, sign up for loyalty programs offered by cruise lines. These programs offer perks like cabin upgrades, onboard credit, and discounted or free cruises based on your level of loyalty.

8. Book Shore Excursions Independently: While cruise lines offer convenient shore excursions, they can be pricey. Research and book excursions independently with local tour operators or explore destinations on your own to save money.

9. Consider Inside Cabins: If you're comfortable with a smaller cabin and don't plan to spend much time in it, consider booking an inside cabin. These are often significantly cheaper than oceanview or balcony cabins.

10. Monitor Price Drops: After booking your cruise, keep an eye on the cruise line's pricing. If the price of your cabin category drops before your sailing, many cruise lines will honor the lower price or offer onboard credit.

When Are The Best Cruise Deals?

The timing of your cruise booking can significantly impact the cost of your vacation. Here are some insights into when the best cruise deals are typically available:

Wave Season (January to March): Many cruise lines offer promotions and discounts during "Wave Season," which typically runs from January to March. This is a prime time to book your cruise and secure attractive deals.
Last-Minute Deals (2-3 Months Before Departure): If you're flexible with your travel plans and can book on short notice, keep an eye out for last-minute deals. Cruise lines may offer significant discounts to fill unsold cabins.
Off-Peak Seasons: Cruising during off-peak seasons, such as the hurricane season in the Caribbean or the rainy season in Asia, can result in lower cruise prices.
Holidays and Special Events: Booking a cruise during holidays like Christmas or New Year's or during special events like the Olympics may lead to higher prices. Avoid these peak times if you're looking for budget-friendly options.

Where To Find The Best Cruise Deals

Finding the best cruise deals requires some research and comparison. Here are some key places to look for deals:

Cruise Line Websites: Start by checking the official websites of cruise lines. They often feature special promotions and exclusive offers.
Travel Agencies: Many travel agencies specialize in cruise vacations and can provide insights into deals and discounts.
Cruise Comparison Websites: As mentioned earlier, websites like CruiseCritic.com, Cruise.com, and CruiseCompete.com allow you to compare prices across different cruise lines and agencies.
Newsletters and Alerts: Subscribe to newsletters and alerts from cruise lines, travel agencies, and deal-finding websites to stay informed about the latest promotions.
Social Media: Follow cruise lines and travel agencies on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, where they may post exclusive deals and promotions.
Travel Forums: Join online travel forums and communities where experienced cruisers often share tips and information about cruise deals they've found.

Remember that the best cruise deals can vary depending on the cruise line, destination, and timing. Take the time to research and compare options to find the deal that suits your budget and travel preferences. With careful planning, you can embark on an unforgettable cruise adventure without breaking the bank.