Travel Guides, Cruise Tips & Destination Stories

What to Do in Sydney After a Cruise: Lunch at SkyFeast Sydney Tower

Disembarking your cruise in Sydney with hours to spare before your flight? Here's an easy way to store your luggage, enjoy a buffet lunch at...

Why Do Cruise Ships Sound Their Foghorns?

During several days of thick fog between Japan and Alaska, our cruise ship's foghorn sounded every two minutes, day and night. With radar and modern...

Costa Maya - worth getting off the ship?

Costa Maya Cruise Port: Is It Worth Getting Off the Ship?

Costa Maya gets some strong reactions from cruise passengers. Some love its beach clubs and Mayan ruins, while others happily stay onboard. Here’s a look...

What Is Included in a Cruise Fare?

Your cruise fare includes much more than your cabin, but not everything onboard is free. Here's what's usually included on a cruise, what normally costs...

People disembarking a cruise ship with overlay text Disembarkation Day How to Get Off The Ship Without The Stress

Cruise Disembarkation Day: How to Get Off the Ship Without the Stress

Getting off a cruise ship involves a little more than simply walking down the gangway. From deciding what to do with your luggage to allowing...

Carnival Splendor in Sydney Harbour with overlay first cruise guide what to know before you go

First Cruise Guide: What to Know Before Your First Cruise

Your first cruise can come with a lot of questions. From embarkation and dining to sea days, shore excursions and what to pack, here's what...

Passengers gathering for mandatory head count

What Happens When a Passenger Is Reported Missing on a Cruise Ship?

When someone is reported missing on a cruise ship, thousands of passengers may suddenly find themselves part of the search. Here's what can happen while...

Carnival Splendor in Sydney Harbour with Harbour Bridge and Opera House in the background

Cruise Carry-On Packing List: What to Pack for Embarkation Day

Your checked luggage may not reach your cabin until later in the day, so what should you keep with you when boarding? Here's my practical...

Lady holding a phone with GigSky eSIMs installed with cruise ship in background

Cruise eSIMs at Sea: Are They Really Worth It?

Land-and-sea eSIMs promise an easier and potentially cheaper way to stay connected throughout a cruise. But limited data, device restrictions and maritime connectivity mean they...