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Find the best cruise for you

Featured cruise deals, cruising guide, why take a cruise vacation.

If you have a place on your bucket list, chances are, a cruise will get you there – provided the destination is along a coastline or inland waterway. Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to regions such as the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment – all rolled into one. Some luxury cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations, which cover drinks and tours ashore. And best of all, cruising means seeing the world conveniently after unpacking only once.

Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids, tweens and teens. While most are free, nursery programs can cost extra. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship (and line) for your travel style. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with land vacations at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- every extra.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their stateroom location but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors – that is staterooms over suites.

Cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes even lower.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

While being flexible date wise will always get you the best last-minute cruise deals, it's particularly helpful if you live near a cruise port and can quickly drive there. That way you'll probably be able to jump on those deals that might pop up just a week or two before the ship is scheduled to sail.

Or if you don't have flexibility with either departure dates or embarkation locations, be willing to compromise on exact destinations. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or so-called shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise is and costs on average, so both are already on your radar. When you see it drop, pounce! (Many cruise lines update pricing several times per day, so preparation is crucial.)

Best cruises in 2024

There's truly a cruise style and ship for everyone, and that has never been more the case than in 2024, as vessels continue to come in an array of sizes – from riverboats and expedition vessels to the largest-ever mega ships. And it's not an exaggeration to say some are loaded with so many activities that you couldn't possibly enjoy them all in a single sailing.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations themselves. The Caribbean is always a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, is also a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and even Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line for a great multi-generational voyage.

Or on the smaller side, by comparison, river cruising remains a hot ticket item this year, with exciting routes that send eager guests down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to lesser-frequented locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam, or soon the Magdalena River in Colombia. Popular river cruises embark in timeless cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. River cruise lines to consider encompass Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises, Tauck, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Riverside Luxury Cruises, as well as American Cruise Lines for a domestic alternative.

If you're an adventurer at heart, an expedition cruise might be best for you. These voyages, often onboard small ships (only a few hundred passengers tops), offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world – from pole to pole – including the Arctic, Alaska, Australia, Greenland, the Galapagos and, of course, Antarctica. Passengers will spend their time zodiacing, kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Ponant and Quark Expeditions, as well as an ever-expanding list that now even extends to Seabourn and Viking.

But for the most decadent form of travel, luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard small to median-sized ships (usually under a thousand passengers) with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service, not to mention the finest dining at sea. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be on the smaller size, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships simply cannot access -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Explora Journeys, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and upcoming Four Seasons Yachts.

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When it comes to planning the ultimate getaway, there are so many reasons why cruise vacations rank among the most popular travel options. First of all, they’re completely stress-free. On a cruise vacation, all the planning is taken care of by the cruise line — from the destinations you sail to and the shore excursions available at each port, to a full range of entertainment and activities happening onboard every day. If you’re not a planner, or if the only things you’re looking to focus on during your getaway is savoring great food, relaxing, and soaking up the sights, cruise vacations are the way to go. A cruise vacation is also a great option if you’re traveling with the whole family, especially when you opt for a Royal Caribbean cruise. All of the ships in this cruise line’s fleet offer family-friendly experiences for guests of all ages. Even little ones will find plenty of ways to play with spaces and activities designed for tots to tweens. One of the top reasons savvy travelers love cruising, though, is because of the incredible value it offers. With Royal Caribbean, your cruise fare includes access to most of the ship’s attractions, select dining venues and all of the entertainment onboard. If you want to make your experience even more all-inclusive, you can opt for beverage and specialty dining packages that cover drinks and dinner at some of the most exclusive restaurants in the fleet. On top of all that, the cruise line presents frequent limited-time offers and seasonal sales, making it easy to score big savings when booking your vacation.

I’m ready to start planning my cruise — how can I score the best deals?

Whether you’re looking to book a short getaway or a longer adventure to far-flung destinations, Royal Caribbean makes it easy to save big on everything from your cruise fare to special experiences onboard and onshore. The first step to making sure you get the best deals is to join the cruise line’s email list. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive regular updates on all the latest offers, like deals by destination , kids sail free promotions and flash sales. The savings don’t end when you book your cruise, though. Once you’ve made a reservation, you’ll also receive notifications about special offers for onboard experiences — like discounts on beverage and specialty dining packages, shore excursions, spa services, and more via My Royal Cruise .

Does it pay to plan ahead, or should I wait until the last minute?  

It’s an age-old question — does the early bird really get the worm, or are there perks to taking a “wait-and-see” approach? If you’re booking a cruise vacation, you’ll find there are benefits to both strategies. Planning ahead is a great way to score big savings , as Royal Caribbean often runs early saver deals to guests booking well in advance. It’s also pretty safe to assume prices usually go up as availability goes down the closer you get to your sail date, so booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great rate. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield some unexpected savings — but only if the itinerary you’re interested in hasn’t sold out yet.

If you can be flexible when it comes to your travel dates, you’ll have your pick of unbeatable savings. Popular vacation dates — like the holidays , spring break , summer vacation and week long cruises — sometimes see the highest prices (though you might get lucky with a seasonal sale). If you have the flexibility to travel during the shoulder season or off season, you’ll likely enjoy big savings on popular stateroom categories , like Balconies and even Suites. The deals don’t only apply to your cruise fare, though. Once you’ve booked your vacation, you could easily unlock discounts and specials on add-ons, including beverage and dining packages , Voom® high speed internet, shore excursions, and amazing experiences not included in your cruise fare — like a day of pampering at Vitality SM Spa, a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley followed by brunch, VIP seating at shows, and much more.

How can I maximize the value of my cruise vacation?

There are plenty of ways to get more bang for your buck when you sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Every ship in the fleet offers a range of delicious complimentary dining options , but you can dig into even more crave-worthy flavor by purchasing a Specialty Dining Package for less ahead of your cruise. Add a Specialty Beverage Package — which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, soda, and more — and your experience is as close to all-inclusive as it gets. And with so many complimentary shows and attractions onboard, you can easily fill every sea day without spending a single dollar extra.

Royal Caribbean also offers deals based on departure ports  and destinations, so if you’re a flexible traveler looking for great savings, you can plan your next vacation around which itineraries are on sale. Just check your email or visit RoyalCaribbean.com/cruise-deals to stay up to date on promotions, sales and special offers. You can even browse sailings and deals by homeport, destination and season, so you can rest assured you’re getting the best possible deal no matter when or where in the world you choose to set sai.

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These Are the Only 6 Outfits You Need to Pack for a Cruise, According to a Carry-on Only Traveler

Follow this foolproof list for a stress-free packing experience — and a lighter suitcase.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

If you took one step through my one-bedroom Los Angeles apartment, “minimalist” might be the last word that comes to mind. With each nook and cranny piled up with heaps of products I’ve set aside for article reviews, TikTok unboxings , and honestly who even knows what else at this point, my living space is definitely eventful , you could say. But when it comes to packing for any trip, I’m the ultimate minimalist. I’d love to say it’s because I’m a naturally sensible person — but really it’s because I despise schlepping more than anything on the planet. Therefore, the more practical I can be with one medium-sized suitcase (and a tote), the better. 

My packing skills were put to the test last month when I set sail on the brand new Carnival Firenze ship. Hopping on board for an eight-day press trip from Long Beach, Calif., to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, I knew I’d need to pack for warm weather at the stops, but cold weather at sea. I’d need to avoid structured, bulky pieces, while stuffing in as much thin (yet durable) material as I possibly could. I’d also need to take into account the dressy nights that may call for more accessories. I wasn’t taking my portable steamer , so I’d need pieces that wouldn’t wrinkle easily. 

And what did I learn? It can be done! I relied heavily on two-piece sets from Amazon . They’re comfy, stylish, and budget-friendly. Below are the only six outfits I needed to get through my trip—along with some accessories to elevate the looks. 

Anrabess Knit Sweater Pullover Crop Top + Pants

The key to cruising is looking stylish while staying comfy. You’re eating a lot and lounging, but you’re also seeing a lot of people, so you don’t want to look like you just rolled out of bed. This two-piece set is not only made with cozy knit fabric, but it has a loose fit that allowed me to make a few extra stops at the breakfast buffet without having to undo any buttons. This look took me from morning until the time I showered and changed for dinner.

I’ve been on a pink kick lately, but the set comes in 26 additional colors, so saying you have options is an understatement. If you’re after that same elevated casual aesthetic but you want to stay a bit warmer, the same brand offers a two-piece sweatsuit with an oversized zip-up sweatshirt. Sizes for both sets go from XS to XXL.

Verdusa Loose Bell Sleeve Pleated Crop Top and Wide Leg Pants Set

There were two fancy or “cocktail attire” nights on the ship, and this was one of my go-tos. The two-piece set checked all the boxes. It was extremely easy to pack, universally stylish (I think it’s a win for everyone), has an elastic waistband which I’m always a fan of, and it looked luxe with an under $35 price tag. I received the most compliments in this outfit, and because I wore it so early in the trip, it made a great first impression. Cropped tops can be intimidating, but I felt covered enough with the high-waisted bottoms. If you want to avoid revealing midriff while sticking to a similar print, I recommend the Reaseral Off Shoulder Printed Long Sleeve Wide Leg Pants Set . The top is loose-fitting and the bottom features an elastic waistband. 

Floerns Crop Tube Top and Split Long Skirt Set

For the Cabo portion of my trip, I wanted something cropped, cute and solid-colored so I could throw my hair up in a bun and let my makeup and accessories make the statement. We spent the day on a yacht, and my Cabo look was my favorite of the entire trip. The actual outfit I wore was the Peixoto Women’s Louisa Crop Top and its accompanying Peixoto Women’s Valentina Skirt , but the combo is on the more pricey side. I was able to find something similar at a much more accessible price point, sold as a set . 

The option I’ve listed is lightweight with a thinner material, which is essential for packing and will come in handy when you’re in hot temps (a la Cabo). It also comes with pockets and two long slits up the sides. I especially like the solid-colored skirt option because you can mix and match with other tops, like the Miracmoda Off Shoulder Ruched Tie Back Crop Top that comes in 22 colors and sizes small to XXL.

Artfree Womens Loungewear Set 

To say I’m obsessed with this two-piece set is an understatement. I wear it all the time. I’m impressed with the high-quality material, fit, comfortability and overall aesthetic. It’s a stylish, luxurious ensemble at a remarkable price point. It can be dressed up with heels for a big night, it can be dressed down with flip flops for eating and lounging. It’s also great for mixing and matching. I’d often slip the pants on for breakfast or lunch on the ship, and pair them with a casual cropped tee like the Artfish Women’s Fitted Casual Crop Top , or the MakeMeChic Women’s Summer Crop Top Twist Front T-Shirt . 

There are several shades to choose from with my beloved set, but I’m partial to the Barbie pink. I get so many compliments. If you’re a bold color girlie like me, you can also try one of the Kaimimei Linen Long Sleeve + Flare Pleated Wide Leg Pants Sets . They’re styled similarly to the outfit I wore, but with slightly more lightweight material and a greater selection of color options. 

Wimsihal Women’s Square Neck Casual Party Mini Dress

This was the It-item that made me an Amazon loyalist. The flirty, fun, timeless party dress goes with me everywhere—and it made a splash (pun intended) during our first dinner at sea. It truly is the ultimate LBD. It’s short enough to show a little leg, but long enough to avoid feeling uncomfortable. It also offers a little skin reveal in all the right places. 

When I tell you I take this with me when I want an instant confidence boost, I mean it. It’s the easiest piece to accessorize, and I absolutely live for the elastic stretch. I’m a curvy girlie, so zippers and tight fitting material are my worst enemies. None of that is present here. I also love the versatile short sleeves. They can be worn as is or off the shoulder. If you want to go for a similar style but change up the length, I also love the SweatyRocks V-Neck Short Romper and the Cegerne Short Sleeve Wide Leg Pant Jumpsuit .

Ceci Erlich Scallop Slip Midi Dress

Anthropologie

My cherished Anthropologie maxi floral dress that I wore to the second formal night on the ship is sadly no longer in stock, but I found a stylish replacement that checks all the boxes of the former. This harmonious array of color was designed exclusively for Anthropologie, and it features an easy tie in the back. This is a dream for me, someone who despises buttons and zippers. It’s easy to slip on, with a long slit on the side to conservatively show a little leg. 

If you want to stick to the floral theme of the original dress, I also love Anthropologie’s Hutch Sleeveless V-Neck Cutout Midi Dress . It’s similarly easy to slip into and it fits the cocktail theme I was going for with the first. I love a sleek all-black moment, but I’m also drawn to color, so a comfy yet classy dress like this one is an ultimate win. The tiny cutout offers a peek of skin without revealing too much.

Best Accessories for Outfits on a Cruise

Bronax pillow slippers for women and men.

If you want to know my true can’t-leave-home-without pick, it’s a pair of these thick cushion slides. Not only are they extremely comfortable (truly, like walking on clouds), they serve many purposes. I wore them casually on the ship with my Anrabess Knit Sweater Pullover Crop Top + Pants for breakfast and lunch. 

I also wore these Amazon number-one best-sellers with my Hue Women’s Mini Crew Socks as I headed down to morning yoga (a refreshing way to kick off my day on the boat). At night, when I made my midnight rounds to the ship’s 24-hour ice cream stand, I’d slip these on with my cozy Artfree Women’s Loungewear Set , and call it a day. Obviously my black pair is the most versatile, but they come in 15 colors to choose from, so a fun pop of color isn’t out of reach!

Vetaste Women's Braided Heeled Sandals

If there’s any piece of shoe advice I can offer on a cruise, it’s this: Do not overdo it. All you need are a reliable pair of slippers or sandals (see above) and a versatile pair of open-toe heels you can dress up or down. You’ll be lounging most of the time anyway, so you really only need a heel for the nice dinners. I lived in these Bottega Veneta-inspired sandals . They’re comfy, stylish and went with everything I brought on the trip, including my evening wear Wimsihal Women’s Square Neck Casual Party Mini Dress and Verdusa Loose Bell Sleeve Pleated Crop Top and Wide Leg Pants Set .

Limeeke One Piece Solid Ribbed Bathing Suit

I spent more time in loungewear than I did in the actual water, so I didn’t find it necessary to overpack swimwear. The key was finding a flattering piece I could wear with anything. This affordable one-piece features ribbed detail, soft material, stretch and comfort. It also offers fun colors to choose from, and a stylish low back. The suit pairs perfectly with my Peixoto Women’s Valentina Skirt and the bottoms from my Artfree Womens Loungewear Set . 

Dulcet Project Leather Tote Bag for Women

When it comes to handbags or clutches on a cruise, all you need are two items. You need a  durable, neutral everyday bag you can take with you everywhere, and a clutch (more on that later) for the cocktail attire nights. This leather tote bag features an adjustable strap that can conveniently transform into different styles. 

During the day, I plopped my laptop into this bad boy and carried it around the ship, along with my Feisedy Vintage Square 70s Flat Aviator Sunglasses , cell phone, makeup touch-ups and other daytime necessities. Then at night, this bag doubled as a chic tote I could take to dinner, wearing my Artfree Women’s Loungewear Set or my Wimsihal Women’s Square Neck Casual Party Mini Dress .

Menurra Acrylic Evening Glitter Cocktail Clutch Bag

This glamorous acrylic clutch was my saving grace for the cocktail attire nights. Not only did the unique square shape spark conversation from guests, but the marble and glitter details spiced up any outfit, especially the Verdusa Loose Bell Sleeve Pleated Crop Top and Wide Leg Pants Set , and the Ceci Erlich Scallop Slip Midi Dress . Easy to clasp and carry, this dressy accessory was a no-brainer for the fancier evenings. 

If the boxed shape isn’t your style, I also love the more lightweight Verdusa Women's Satin Evening Handbag . With seven colors to choose from, there’s the option to go neutral or bold and bright, depending on your outfit. The material is soft and the space fits all the essentials.

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Everyone you know is going on a cruise

­­­ Lots of people will be getting their sea legs this summer.

Ports have been packed with cruise ships over the last few years, as vacationers flock to ever larger vessels and operators race to accommodate a surge in post-pandemic bookings — many of them from first-time passengers. The industry expects even more this year.

Benjamin Xiang, a San Francisco-based flight attendant, went on his first cruise last August, setting aside his reservations about “cruise people” and a type of trip he’d imagined would be “not my travel style.”

Taking advantage of a Virgin Voyages promotion that let him use credit card points to cover the $2,500 bill, Xiang booked a weeklong, all-inclusive, adults-only cruise from Barcelona, with stops at Mallorca, Ibiza and along the French Riviera.“I invited my best friend, we prepaid a $600 bar tab, and we were like, ‘We’ll just hang by the pool, read a book or something,’” said Xiang, 35. “Turned out we partied every single night and had a blast.”

He’s among the many cruise newbies who’ve helped power the industry’s recent growth. Some 27% of cruise passengers over the past two years have been first-timers, up 12% from the prior two-year period, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), a trade group.

Turned out we partied every single night and had a blast.

Benjamin Xiang, 35, San Francisco

“Will I go back? I think yes,” Xiang said. “Will I pay this time? Yes.”That’s exactly what cruise operators are hoping for, and so far they’re getting it: 82% of all cruisers say they’ll book again, CLIA’s latest report found.

After welcoming 31.7 million passengers last year, 7% more than in 2019, the industry expects volumes to swell to 34.7 million by the end of 2024. Experts say a combination of newcomers, repeat bookers and younger travelers are powering the uptick.

Like Xiang, many first-time cruisers are groups of friends traveling together, said Jennifer Klaussen, who owns Sundari Travel in Malibu, California.

“Once they get on a cruise and realize it’s not what they thought it would be, they’re usually interested in future cruises and diverse destinations,” she said, adding that newer operators have managed to “reduce the stigma associated with cruising — that it’s only for the elderly.”

Passengers under age 40, including kids, made up around 42% of cruisegoers last year, up from 35% in 2019, according to CLIA. While the average age of a cruise customer is 46 industrywide, millennials now make up nearly the same share — 22% — as baby boomers and Gen Xers, who each comprise 24%.“The cruise industry has been hard at work to launch new ships and experiences that are attractive to a younger, newer demographic,” said Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic, “whether that’s a big, new ship with eye-catching attractions for families, or more bucket-list-worthy experiences like sailings in the Galapagos or Antarctica.”

The cruise industry has been hard at work to launch new ships and experiences that are attractive to a younger, newer demographic.

Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic

Amenities don’t hurt either, said Nathan Rosenberg, chief brand officer at Virgin Voyages, which began sailing only in 2021, as the cruise industry rebounded from the pandemic. “Millennials and Gen Z love the fact that everything is included. Think meals foodies would love, tips covered, Wi-Fi to stay connected and a ton of fitness classes,” he said.Vessels are getting bigger to handle the growing demand.

In January, Royal Caribbean Group launched Icon of the Seas — currently the world’s largest cruise ship, with 20 decks, 40 restaurants and room for more than 7,000 passengers and 3,000 crew members.

The company, meanwhile, reported a 16% increase in new cruisegoers between this year and last across its various cruise lines. Nearly half of all Royal Caribbean guests are millennials or younger, CEO Jason Liberty said on the company’s first-quarter earnings call.

Similarly, Norwegian Cruise Lines CEO Harry Sommer told CNBC earlier this month, “We appeal obviously to older customers, but millennial and Gen Z is the fastest-growing segment of our cruising right now.”

Cruises generally aren’t cheap, though, and Sommer noted that the company’s target customer is middle- or upper-income. As consumer spending cools down across much of the economy, Americans are adjusting their summer vacation plans to fit their budgets.The share of travelers put off by steep prices hit 32% in Deloitte’s annual summer travel survey , up sharply from 24% last year. But more affluent vacationers still seem eager to shell out on everything from first-class airfare to luxury train trips , as the industry continues to push premium offerings .

“More higher-income travelers are headed to cruises,” whereas “lower-income travelers are going camping,” the Deloitte report, released Tuesday, said. (“RV trips are up across the board,” it added.)

That doesn’t mean cruise passengers aren’t paying attention to price.

Jaclyn Groh will be going on her first cruise in March 2025, sailing around the Caribbean. The 34-year-old therapist and social work professor at Ohio State University in Columbus typically takes her family on boat trips on a lake, beach visits, “and of course the occasional Disney adventure for the kiddos,” said Groh.

While some of her friends have done family cruises, she’s never been interested in the largest cruise ships because they seem “overwhelming.” But in shopping around for a vacation next year for just her and her husband, Groh said her travel agent’s description of the packages available won her over.The smaller Explora II vessel she opted for has a “boutique feel that we love,” she said. And it’s priced about the same as the resort in Curaçao where the couple will be celebrating their 10th anniversary this fall. That week on land will run about $6,500, while the cruise comes to about $6,700.

“The price seems very reasonable for all of the inclusions, and yet with the cruise we will get to experience so many new locations and excursions,” said Groh, who’s looking forward to “a perfect combination of resting in luxury and adventuring.”

Harriet Baskas is an NBC News contributor who writes about travel and the arts.

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Cruises are the best vacations for introverted travelers. Here's how I make them work for me.

Posted: May 27, 2024 | Last updated: May 27, 2024

• As an introvert, cruises are one of my favorite ways to travel and recharge. 
• I wake up early and go on walks around the ship and take myself to dinner.
• I book cruises with lines like Princess that I know are more peaceful and relaxed, too. 

I've been writing about my family's travels for over a decade and traveling for even longer. I'm also an introvert who gets easily overwhelmed by crowds and finds energy in moments of quiet solitude.

But even as a seeker of alone time, cruising remains among my favorite ways to explore the world.

Although heading onto a ship packed with thousands of guests may seem off-putting for introverts like me, cruising is among the best types of vacations I've taken from a recharging standpoint.

While at sea, there are plenty of moments, spaces, and activities perfect for taking time away from the chaos of the crowds. In fact, I'd even argue that cruising is one of the best vacations for introverted travelers .

I recently sailed aboard Princess Cruises' Caribbean Princess during spring break, when the ship was at its more than 3,000-passenger capacity , and never found myself feeling socially spent or overwhelmed by others.

Here's why cruises are great for introverts — plus, my advice for anyone who wants to recharge and take some "me time" on a cruise vacation.

And with cruise ships projected to be packed as ever this year, even extroverts could use these tips to find some much-needed peace on board.

First of all, some cruise lines are much more peaceful than others.

It's important to choose a cruise line that fits your travel personality .

Since my family knows me and my son are introverts, we choose cruise ships that attract a more calm clientele and offer a more elevated experience.

I've sailed with a few lines, but my family often chooses Princess Cruises because its ships are a bit calmer and more elevated than those packed with water slides and rock-climbing walls.

Plus, the more attractions and activities a ship offers, the more likely the people on it are seeking a louder, wilder time.

Ships often have quiet times in the early mornings and late nights.

I've found the two times when a ship's decks are virtually empty are early in the morning and late in the evening.

For most of the day, the busy main pool decks of the Caribbean Princess were full of revelers enjoying the spring-break sunshine, but in the morning and evening, things were much quieter.

Not having to fight the crowds to get a chair on the pool deck makes for a relaxing time of watching the ocean or reading a book quietly.

There's nothing like a morning walk with ocean views.

Each morning on a cruise, I set an alarm for 7 a.m. and wake up before my family to go for a walk around the ship.

The Caribbean Princess had a jogging track on one of the lower decks, and walking there while taking in sweeping ocean views was a beautiful way to start my days and burn off the stress caused by being around other people.

Although our ship offered a fitness center and group fitness classes, I found the peaceful outdoor track to be the better option for my introverted self.

Coffee and a good book are the perfect way to usher in the day, too.

Morning routines truly are an introvert's key to powering up for long days of cruising, whether those days include time in the pool or adventures in various ports of call.

After my morning walks, I'd grab a coffee and head to one of the ship's upper decks, where I'd read for a bit, getting caffeinated and ready for whatever each day would bring.

When the ship is crowded on sea days, I head to the spa.

My most recent sailing included three days at sea, meaning we did not get off at a port for about 72 hours straight.

On sea days, the ship's main areas are way more crowded, so I always book a spa treatment to escape.

On my recent trip, I booked a seaweed wrap and massage and spent time before and after the 90-minute service relaxing in the spa area, sipping infused water, and reading in my cozy robe.

Most ships have adult-only areas, which are often quite calm.

Another day-at-sea tip for introverts is to take advantage of the ship's adults-only areas.

Even if you're traveling with children , it's perfectly acceptable to send them off to the kids' clubs on board while you relax in a much quieter atmosphere.

The Caribbean Princess had an adults-only pool area available to all guests. Still, we took our seclusion a step further by renting a cabana in The Sanctuary, the cruise line's exclusive deck area just for grown-ups.

There, I recharged in complete silence by reading in a pool lounger overlooking the ocean.

Having a solo dinner on a cruise ship is amazing.

On one night of every cruise, I take myself on a little date, sending my husband and kids off to explore the ship together while I have dinner on my own.

I curl up in my chair with a good book and eat my dinner peacefully while I allow my body to relax and unwind from a full day of activities.

With no one at my table to chat with, I have time to recharge and quiet any stresses I've felt throughout the day.

In fact, cruising makes it easy to be alone and entertained for an entire evening.

On my sailing aboard the Caribbean Princess, I treated myself to dinner and a show.

Since the cruise line offered performances nightly in its onboard theater, I was able to head there after dinner to watch a show in darkness and solitude.

Yes, there were hundreds of other guests in the audience, but since I wasn't with my travel party, I didn't need to make small talk with anyone and was able to soak in the relaxing vibes.

But it's also OK — and easy — to blend into the crowd.

Another way I take some time for myself while cruising is to choose a few activities on the ship's entertainment schedule each day to attend alone.

From a paper-flower-making class to cooking demonstrations, our ship had plenty of interesting activities on offer each day.

Among my favorites? Sitting in on a trivia or game show-style activity all by myself — a team of one, ready to use my brain only for thinking of answers, not for making small talk.

Lastly, there's nothing more recharging than a cruise-ship nap.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the bliss of a cruise-ship nap, which I took full advantage of most afternoons and reaped the benefits of.

After all, there's nothing quite like being rocked to sleep by the ocean at 3 p.m. after a long day in the sunshine.

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Help! Our Cruise Operator Went Bankrupt and We Are Out $17,905.

A couple purchased an Arabian Sea voyage, but Vantage, the cruise company, went under. Their travel insurance was supposed to cover financial default, but the claim was repeatedly denied.

By Seth Kugel

Dear Tripped Up,

In September 2022, I booked a 17-day Arabian Sea cruise through Vantage Travel Services to celebrate my 80th birthday with my wife. The cruise was to set sail in October 2023. I used my credit card to leave a $2,000 deposit and paid the remaining $17,905 shortly afterward by bank transfer. I also bought the Worldwide Trip Protector plan from Travel Insured International (for $1,954), in part because it covered financial default and bankruptcy of cruise lines. Vantage then canceled the cruise and offered me an alternative date I could not make; I also declined their offer of credit and asked for a refund, which they agreed to. But no refund ever came, and they stopped answering the phone. My credit card returned the $2,000, and I filed an insurance claim for $17,905. It was denied, as was my first appeal. Then Vantage filed for bankruptcy, and my second appeal was denied too. The reasons given by the insurer were outrageous. They cited a vague parenthetical phrase in the policy’s bankruptcy clause, claiming I wasn’t covered because I purchased the cruise directly from the cruise line (rather than, say, through a travel adviser). Then they said my policy lapsed when I canceled the trip. But I did not cancel; Vantage did. I also filed a complaint with the New York State Department of Financial Services, which was rejected. Can you help? Michael, Smithtown, N.Y.

Dear Michael,

When Boston-based Vantage filed for bankruptcy last year, it owed thousands of customers a total of $108 million for cruises and other travel products they had paid for but never received. The company’s former owner is facing lawsuits in New York and Pennsylvania. But you had purchased an insurance policy to cover just such a risk, a smart move. Or so you thought until the insurance company, Travel Insured International, denied your claim and then used exasperating logic to fend off your two appeals, first interpreting the policy’s financial default and bankruptcy clause in a maddening way and then twisting the meaning of the word “cancel.”

You made a few mistakes as well — most notably, by making a claim based on a financial default that had not yet happened. But after speaking with law professors, insurance experts and competing insurance companies, I believe Travel Insured International was wrong, at least by the time of your second appeal, and should pay up.

What does it have to say for itself? For nearly five months, Travel Insured International and its parent company, Crum & Forster, did not respond to my detailed inquiries. Days before publication, however, a spokeswoman, Amy Whilldin, sent the following statement:

“The claim was properly considered, and the correct determination was made based on the facts of this claim, which was to the satisfaction of both the New York Department of Financial Services and the New York State attorney general.”

Ms. Whilldin is correct about the state’s financial services department . An examiner with the department, which regulates the insurance industry, rejected your complaint. “After a review of the policy language," he wrote, “we do not find they are acting in an arbitrary or capricious manner,” referring to Travel Insured International. I disagree with that determination, as we are about to get into.

But the attorney general’s office was not satisfied. You had complained to its Department of Consumer Frauds and Protection, and they did not receive a response from the company. “Despite our repeated efforts,” an employee wrote, “they have failed to respond.” The letter goes on to recommend you consider suing the company.

I have a better idea. You should file a formal grievance with Travel Insured International, which under your policy allows you to submit new evidence, and if that fails even argue your case in person. (You told me you are not interested in a third option, to accept travel credits under the conditions offered by the Australian company that bought Vantage’s assets.)

In the meantime, your story provides great lessons on how travelers should choose the appropriate travel insurance policy, and what can go wrong even when they do.

In your initial claim to Travel Insured International, filed in late 2022, you cited Vantage’s “very poor record” in refunding its customers and your “assumption that the company is in default in making payments.”

This was an error: Your policy defines financial default as “the total cessation of operations,” and Vantage at the time was running at least some cruises. Travel Insured International’s response simply said that “your travel supplier canceling your trip is not a covered reason.” True.

When you first appealed in April, Vantage was two months short of declaring bankruptcy outright, and was not yet in financial default as defined by the policy. But it was teetering. (That one of its cruises left at all made headlines in The Boston Globe .) This time, Travel Insured International denied your claim, citing the bankruptcy clause, which protects policy holders in case of “Bankruptcy or default of an airline, cruise line, tour operator or other travel provider (other than the Travel Supplier, tour operator, travel agency, organization or firm from whom you purchased your travel arrangements).”

That parenthetical says you are not covered if the organization that sold you the cruise goes bankrupt. You purchased the cruise directly from Vantage, so you are not covered, according to the claims adjuster’s reasoning. (Why the company even cited this clause, if the cruise line was not yet in default, remains a mystery.)

Similar clauses appear in many travel policies, but that’s not what they’re supposed to mean, said Loretta Worters, vice president for media relations at the Insurance Information Institute , an industry group.

Such provisions, she explained, are intended to exclude coverage for an unscrupulous or financially flailing middleman that goes belly-up after collecting your money but before passing it along to the actual travel provider.

“Some of these are fly-by-night, travel-agencies-in-their-kitchen kinds of things,” Ms. Worters said. ( We encountered one such agency in a previous Tripped Up column .)

Guess who agreed with Ms. Worters: The agent who answered the phone when I called Travel Insured International’s customer care line as a potential customer. I asked about the clause and she agreed it was ambiguous, checking with a supervisor before saying: “If you are booking directly with the company and the company itself goes under default or bankruptcy, you would be able to file a claim for the nonrefundable portion of your trip.”

Ms. Whilldin, the spokeswoman for Travel Insured International, did not specifically answer my question about this apparent conflict. But it seems their claims adjuster made a mistake, aided by the ambiguous language of the underwriter who wrote the policy. (That’s United States Fire Insurance, another Crum & Forster company.)

Now, let’s discuss the second appeal. “Once you cancel your trip, the coverage under the plan ends,” Travel Insured International said. Your argument is that you did not cancel; Vantage did.

I think almost anyone who isn’t a lawyer would agree with you. But Oren Bar-Gill , a professor at Harvard Law School and the author of “Seduction by Contract: Law, Economics and Psychology in Consumer Markets,” explained to me the opposing argument. Vantage was contractually allowed to change the dates or offer credit, and you refused, the equivalent of canceling.

But, he added, when Vantage agreed to refund your cruise, it could be “considered a waiver of their contractual rights,” weakening the argument that you canceled your contract.

In a lawsuit New York State filed against the now-defunct Vantage and its former owner, Henry Lewis, the issue also comes up: The suit says Vantage “deceptively” mislabeled cancellations as “postponements.”

Even Travel Insured International admitted that Vantage had canceled, in its original letter rejecting your claim. “It is our understanding that your travel supplier, Vantage, canceled your cruise,” the claims adjuster wrote. Somehow, however, by the third response you had gone from cancelee to canceler.

You also missed a red flag when you chose your policy. Suzanne Morrow, the chief executive of InsureMyTrip , where you found your plan, told me you called the company within minutes of your purchase and asked an agent to point you to the bankruptcy clause. (You confirmed this to me.)

That means you’re not the typical insurance customer blindsided by small print you never read. If you were so concerned about the cruise line’s solvency, you could have canceled your plan during the insurer’s “free look” period and chosen one with more straightforward language — I found several on the InsureMyTrip website.

What lessons can we take away from your debacle?

To begin with, pay for everything with a credit card when your credit limit allows. Because of an odd quirk in a 1974 law , card issuers are required to reimburse you if the company you interacted with goes bankrupt.

Beyond that, the basic advice for travel insurance remains unchanged: Shop for a plan separately through a provider you trust or an aggregator like InsureMyTrip, rather than adding trip protection by checking a box just before you purchase a big-ticket item. Read the policy summaries fully and click through to the actual policy document to read fine print on issues that concern you most (say, bankruptcy protection or medical coverage for pre-existing conditions).

If you don’t understand anything, call the company. If it cannot answer satisfactorily and follow up in writing, choose another provider.

If you need advice about a best-laid travel plan that went awry, send an email to [email protected] .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Seth Kugel is the columnist for “ Tripped Up ,” an advice column that helps readers navigate the often confusing world of travel. More about Seth Kugel

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

 Cruise Ship Surprises: Here are five unexpected features on ships , some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

 Icon of the Seas: Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . The most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet .

Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’:  People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise  into  “cast members”  overnight.

Dipping Their Toes: Younger generations of travelers are venturing onto ships for the first time . Many are saving money.

Cult Cruisers: These devoted cruise fanatics, most of them retirees, have one main goal: to almost never touch dry land .

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Cruise ship operations to resume from Baltimore later this month, port confirms

Cruises from Baltimore will resume later this month.

Royal Caribbean International’s Vision of the Seas will leave from the city on May 25. That will mark the first cruise ship to do so since the March collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge , the Port of Baltimore said in a Facebook post .

Vision of the Seas will sail a round-trip cruise to Bermuda, according to CruiseMapper . Royal Caribbean previously moved the ship’s operations to Norfolk, Virginia in the wake of the bridge collapse.

“Royal Caribbean International looks forward to returning to the Port of Baltimore once again,” a spokesperson told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. “Vision of the Seas will set sail on a 5-night itinerary as planned on Saturday, May 25 after completing its previously scheduled drydock in the Bahamas.”

Carnival Cruise Line also expects to return this month.

Carnival will embark guests on Carnival Pride’s May 19 cruise in Norfolk, but anticipates it will end the trip in Baltimore.

“We are encouraging our guests to register for our complimentary bus service between Baltimore and Norfolk for the sailing's embarkation,” spokesperson Matt Lupoli said in an emailed statement. “We remain in close contact with local, state and federal officials regarding the return of our operations at the Port of Baltimore.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Protect Your Trip »

The 5 best nyc dinner cruises for food & views.

These dinner cruises provide some of the best views of Manhattan.

The Best NYC Dinner Cruises

Courtesy of La Barca Cantina

When you're strolling the streets of Manhattan, it can be difficult to grasp the magnitude of the city, with its skyscrapers and densely packed landmarks. The solution? A boat ride. A breezy sail in New York Harbor can feature everything from an elegant dinner to a live jazz band to tacos and tequila. Read on to discover the top-rated New York City dinner cruise options as determined by travel expert opinion and recent reviews.

City Cruises New York Bateaux Premier Dinner Cruise

Price: From $144 Duration: 3 hours Standout perk: This all-glass boat delivers panoramic skyline views.

Climbing aboard the Bateaux feels like stepping into a greenhouse, with its glass-enclosed structure and water views in every direction. There are no bad seats on this boat, but as an upgrade you can reserve a window table for the best views of the Hudson River, the East River and the New York Harbor. This cruise is a match for anyone seeking elegance: The tables are covered in crisp white cloths, wine and cocktails are served in sparkling glasses, and a three-course a la carte dinner is served at a relaxed pace (no buffet here).

The Bateaux cruise is an experience to get dressed up for, where the dress code is semi-formal and dinner is accompanied by live music. The sunset can provide the perfect backdrop for pictures, and don't forget to snap a shot of the Statue of Liberty . Children younger than 6 are not permitted on this cruise, so expect a polished, for-adults atmosphere complete with creative cocktails and dancing under the stars. The Bateaux has rightfully earned a reputation for its fresh food; this three-course, plated menu includes several tempting a la carte options from a ravioli starter with crispy pancetta to osso bucco with cauliflower polenta.

Check prices & availability on:

City Cruises New York Signature Dinner Cruise

Price: From $109 Duration: 2.5 hours Standout perk: A live DJ gives this dinner cruise an extra dose of atmosphere.

Looking for a casual night of dining and dancing with the addition of a skyline backdrop? This dinner cruise offers just that. Set sail from Chelsea Piers in a climate-controlled boat along the Hudson and East rivers, admiring New York City landmarks like the Empire State Building . For dinner, indulge in a chef-prepared buffet with a wide range of options from Greek salad to oven-roasted salmon with miso to Caribbean jerk braised pork. If you're bringing a sweet tooth on board, be sure to check out the ample dessert station.

After snapping some pictures on the open-air deck, return to the cabin for cocktails from the cash bar, interactive games and upbeat music from the onboard DJ.

Those traveling with young kids will be pleased to know that infants younger than 3 cruise free – so feel free to bring your little ones along to enjoy the experience with you.

La Barca Cantina

Price: Varies Duration: 2 hours Standout perk: You'll find an extensive tequila and mezcal list on board to accompany the Mexican fare.

One criticism of New York dinner cruises is that they don't offer good value for money, but the "taco boat" challenges that critique with ceviche, tacos, churros, cocktails and skyline views for an affordable price. Climb aboard a yacht at Pier 81 to experience a youthful, modern interpretation of a dinner cruise – think: low lighting, couches for lounging and three bars, complete with Latin pop, salsa and dance music playing in the background. Raise a glass while the yacht sails south on the Hudson River to check out world-famous Manhattan skyline views.

La Barca Cantina also offers a bottomless brunch cruise with a DJ, as well as special events.

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Classic Harbor Line NYC Evening Jazz Cruise

Courtesy of Classic Harbor Line

Price: From $108 Duration: 1.5 hours Standout perk: A jazz trio typically featuring a sax, keyboard and drums plays live on board.

Listen to jazz standards aboard a 1920s-style yacht with this fun sightseeing cruise departing from Pier 62 in Chelsea Piers. Choose between kicking back in the climate-controlled cabin or on the open-air deck throughout this evening cruise, which includes views of Manhattan landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Live music is played outside on the deck or inside the salon, depending on the season (and the boat, Manhattan or Manhattan II).

While this cruise doesn't offer dinner, one complimentary alcoholic beverage is included, and a cash bar offers additional drinks and snacks. Listen to music by Duke Ellington, George Gershwin and more as you sail past the twinkling Manhattan skyline. Those traveling in a group should keep in mind: Tickets are slightly discounted for groups of 4 to 16.

Circle Line New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

Courtesy of Circle Line

Price: From $54 Duration: 2 hours Standout perk: This no-fuss, excellent-value cruise option has drinks and snacks available for purchase on board.

When you're craving panoramic views rather than a three-course meal, choose the Circle Line's Harbor Lights cruise departing from Pier 83. This sightseeing sailing delivers an up-close experience of the Manhattan skyline lights coming to life, while cruising past landmarks including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Chrysler Building . A live guide provides narration and historical context for what you're seeing. As the sun sets behind New Jersey, watch the glow of the sinking sun reflect in the windows of skyscrapers.

Food from the onboard cafe – like salads, sandwiches and snacks – as well as beer, wine and cocktails at the bar are available for purchase. This is an ideal situation for groups with varying levels of hunger and thirst. Sit alfresco in the breeze or indoors in the climate-controlled cabin – it's up to you.

Non-English-speaking guests can download the Circle Line app for narration available in several languages; just be sure to bring your own headset.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jessica Colley Clarke is a New York-based freelance writer. She loves to take visiting family and friends out on the water in the New York Harbor for a fresh perspective on the Manhattan skyline and beyond.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top New York City Tours
• The Best Hotels in New York City
• The Top Observation Decks in New York City

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