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Consider downloading this  Cruise Ship Travel Tips PDF  to take with you while you travel.  

Special Notes for Cuba Travel: 

• Ensure shore excursions and purchases comply with  U.S. regulations . 
• U.S. credit and debit cards do NOT work in  Cuba . Bring enough cash to cover your stay. This includes payment for hotels, restaurants, taxis, souvenir shops, etc. 

Before your cruise: 

• Make sure you review the latest  CDC guidance on cruise ship travel . 
• Read our  Traveler’s Checklist  . 
• Check our  country information pages for the countries you will be visiting to learn about important health and safety precautions to take. Write down the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in case of an emergency. 
• Always carry your passport book with you in case of an emergency. You may need your passport in the event of an unexpected medical evacuation or if the ship docks at an alternate port. You should bring your passport even if your cruise says you won’t need it. 
• Apply early for your  passport , or make sure your current one will be valid at least six months beyond your travel dates and has two or more blank pages. Your cruise company may also require you to have a passport even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or foreign port of entry does not. 
• Have the right foreign visas for all stops on your cruise, if required, even if you do not plan to disembark in those locations. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . You will get important safety and security info. Follow us @TravelGov on Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram for travel and security information. 
• Make sure you have medical and emergency evacuation insurance that will cover your trip. Consider buying supplemental insurance. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas. 
• You may also need other insurance for unexpected travel expenses when abroad. Check with your cruise line or travel agency to see if they provide such coverage. You can also check with your health or homeowner’s insurance providers and credit card companies, which sometimes provide this coverage overseas. If not, consider buying supplemental insurance.
• Have a contingency plan for returning home if you must remain in a foreign country longer than expected. Make color copies of your passport photo page, foreign visas, and itinerary. Leave one copy with a trusted family member or friend and carry one separately from your actual documents. Make sure to take a photo of your travel documents with your phone to have electronic copies as well.

Medication and vaccination requirements: 

• Check with your doctor to make sure that traveling abroad to your destinations is  medically safe  for you and whether you need any vaccinations and/or assistive devices on your trip.  
• Check with the foreign country's embassy in the United States. They can tell you whether your medications are legal in each country you visit. Also, find out if there are limits or special instructions for bringing them in. For some medications, you may need a letter from your doctor. Carrying it in the prescription bottle might not be enough “proof.” Remember, you are required to follow the local laws of the countries you visit, including with respect to medications, even if those laws differ from the laws of the United States.
• Ensure you have enough of your  prescription medications  to last beyond your trip dates, in case of possible delays. Some countries may not have equivalents of your prescription and over-the-counter medications. 
• Carry a written copy of all your prescriptions with you in case a country requires it, or you need to replace your medications. 

Ask Your Cruise Line: 

• What their procedures are in case of emergency. 
• How family members can contact you in an emergency, such as cell or satellite phone coverage and/or an e-mail address for emergencies. 
• What types of medical services your ship can provide, such as basic or urgent care, hospitalization, dialysis, etc. 
• Check your cruise line’s prohibited items list when considering what to take with you. 

During Your Cruise: 

• Remain vigilant and exercise normal precautions aboard a cruise ship and on shore, as you would whenever traveling abroad. 
• Limit your alcohol intake.  
• Ensure cabin safety and make sure the door and balcony are properly locked at all times.  
• Consider storing your travel documents and other valuables in a secure spot, such as a safe in your room or the ship’s safe. 
• Talk to the security personnel on board if you are the victim of a crime. The cruise ship should have procedures in place for handling a crime onboard. 
• Follow local laws and customs. If you break the law, you may be arrested and prosecuted.
• If you are the  victim of a crime on shore , report it to local authorities, the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate , and to cruise ship security personnel. 
• If you lose your passport, report it right away to the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate . Make plans to get a new passport as soon as possible.  
• Follow  CDC guidance  after you disembark.

Other Things to Keep in Mind:

Check our travelers page to learn more about specific issues you might face abroad. These include special considerations for older travelers, those with disabilities, women, and LGBTQI+ travelers. 

Frequently Asked Questions

I heard you can use a passport card for a cruise, is that true.

You can use the passport card to reenter the United States at seaports of entry from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. However, if you cannot return on the cruise ship for any reason, you will need a passport book to fly back to the United States. 

Unexpected circumstances that can make it important you have a passport book include:

• Illness or Injury – Depending on how severe your illness or injury is, you may have to be admitted to a local hospital overseas. If you cannot be discharged before the cruise ship is scheduled to depart, the cruise ship may leave without you. In this case, you would need a U.S. passport to fly home upon clearance from your doctor. 
• Damage to cruise ship – Occasionally cruise ships are damaged or have mechanical issues that cannot be fixed during your trip. In these cases, you might need to go ashore in a country which requires a passport and/or you would need a U.S passport book to fly home.

Your cruise company also may require you to have a passport, even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection or the foreign country’s border agency does not. 

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Traveling with medications

Medications that are legally prescribed in the United States are not always legal abroad. Check with the destination country’s embassy or consulate about local laws regarding your prescribed medicines.

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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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Best Cruise Ships for You

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Celebrity Beyond

Launched in April 2022, Celebrity Beyond is the third ship in the cruise line's Edge Series, capable of holding up to 3,260 passengers and 1,400 crew members. On board, guests have their pick of 32 food and beverage venues serving everything from Greek to French to Italian cuisine; there are also several cocktail bars and lounges where guests can grab a drink.

One of the highlights of Celebrity Beyond is its 4,500-piece art collection, which includes works by travel photographers and international artists. There is also no shortage of unique entertainment options; these range from acrobatic shows to juggling mixologist performances. To enjoy stunning water views, enjoy Celebrity's "Magic Carpet," a large platform that hangs off the edge of the ship and moves from deck to deck.

Staterooms offer amenities like plush bathrobes, comfortable Cashmere mattresses and flat-screen TVs; many also come with private verandas. For a one-of-a-kind experience, splurge on a room in The Retreat. This resort-within-a-resort features villas and suites with added luxuries like plunge pools, hot tubs and butlers. Plus, guests of The Retreat have exclusive access to a private sundeck, restaurant and lounge, along with an onboard credit that can be used however you see fit.

Celebrity Beyond sails to a variety of popular Mediterranean and Caribbean destinations, including the French Riviera, Italy, Mexico and more. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Celebrity Beyond, if you're lucky, your drink might be poured by Captain Kate McCue herself during the nightly flair bartender show at the Grand Plaza Martini Bar. Make sure to follow her behind-the-scenes adventures on Instagram. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Celebrity Edge

Debuted in December 2018, the 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge stands out for its modernity. The Edge is dressed to the nines in contemporary designs and features a diverse array of technologies, amenities, activities and dining venues on board. Passengers can delight in the ship's rooftop garden, take a dip in one of many ocean-facing pools, work up a sweat on the jogging track or relax at the on-site spa.

You'll find plenty of evening entertainment options, too, including themed bars and lounges, a club and a theater showcasing a variety of productions. The Edge was the first Celebrity ship fitted with the Magic Carpet – the line's cantilevered venue at sea that travels 13 stories. The open-air venue can be repositioned alongside several decks, allowing it to transform from a live music venue to a bar to an exclusive specialty restaurant, depending on its location.

For dining, passengers have 29 options to choose from. These include four main restaurants and specialty options serving a range of cuisines, from sashimi to French bistro classics. After a bite to eat, take a break and relax in your modern stateroom or suite. Every room offers technology that allows guests to control temperature, service and lighting with a touch screen. What's more, with a roughly 2-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio, service across the ship will be spot on.

Celebrity Edge makes sailings across Europe, Asia, Australia and more. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Edge Series ships, park yourself at the Sunset Bar with a spicy margarita every evening – it’s the best spot on the ship to watch for the fabled green flash. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Debuted in October 2021, Rotterdam welcomes up to 2,668 guests. The name hearkens back to the line's founding in the late 19th century, when its first ship, Rotterdam, sailed from the Netherlands to New York. Though the ship's name is rooted in the cruise line's past, its amenities are anything but antiquated. 

Among Rotterdam's standout facilities is World Stage, a performance venue that features a two-story, 270-degree wraparound LED screen that creates a panorama of light and sound for audience members. For more entertainment, passengers can catch a performance at any of the ship's numerous music venues, including the Rolling Stone Rock Room and B.B. King's Blues Club.

When travelers aren't grooving to live tunes, they can test their luck at the onboard casino or relax at the spa. Meanwhile, kids can play the day away at the Kids Club. Foodies will be pleased to hear the ship offers eight dining options, including Rudi's Sel de Mer, a French brasserie, and Tamarind, which highlights the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan.

Cabins range in size from 143 square feet to 1,290 square feet, with some of the luxury suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, whirlpool baths and verandas with hot tubs.

Sailings aboard Rotterdam depart from ports like Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Amsterdam to destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip: The art collection aboard Rotterdam is valued at more than $4.1 million and has 2,645 pieces of diverse works ranging in value from $500 to $620,000. Take some time to walk around the ship to explore the collections. Each of the three stairwells has a theme that reaches from top to bottom: architecture, music or zoology. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Viking Venus

Launched in May 2021 from Portsmouth, England, Viking Venus features modern amenities and a contemporary design. The ship can hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Amenities include multiple pools and shops, as well as a cinema, a live performance theater, a jazz lounge, a spa, a fitness center and a salon. Plus, you can attend a lecture or discussion with the onboard historian, who helps educate passengers on the cultural aspects of each destination. An onboard cooking school, The Kitchen Table, also allows guests to learn about each destination's unique cuisine. 

Cruisers can enjoy daily updated food options at The Restaurant, diverse cuisine at the World Café, expertly paired tasting menus at The Chef's Table and Italian favorites at Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. There are eight dining venues on board in total, in addition to the ship's cooking school at The Kitchen Table and 24/7 room service.

When it's time to rest, there are six types of accommodations to choose from – all with private verandas. The standard Veranda Staterooms measure 270 square feet and feature plush beds, free Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs. Higher-tier rooms come with extras like priority shore excursion reservations, priority spa reservations, in-room coffee and free laundry services. Plus, travelers in these cabins will have more space: Rooms reach up to 1,448 square feet and may include separate living and dining areas.

The Viking Venus sails to popular European destinations like Barcelona , Athens , Bangkok , Istanbul , Rome , London , Sydney and Stockholm .

Celebrity Apex

The Celebrity Apex – which made its inaugural sailing in June 2021 – can hold up to 2,910 passengers and 1,320 crew members. Guests can wine and dine at 29 restaurants, bars and lounges, then spend the night testing their luck at the casino or enjoying live music at the Magic Carpet (which offers great ocean views). Specialty restaurants include a steakhouse and a raw bar, while main dining options feature Mediterranean, Italian and French cuisines. There are also meeting spaces and multipurpose areas on board, as well as upscale shops. 

Visit the spa or adults-only Solarium pool to stay relaxed throughout your stay at sea. For younger travelers, there are some kid-friendly areas of the ship – such as a Camp at Sea. However, the ship is geared more toward adult clientele (or families with older children) looking for a relaxing escape.

The ship's staterooms, which start at 181 square feet, offer smart TVs, customizable air conditioning and plenty of storage space. Many rooms also offer private verandas. If you're willing to splurge, consider booking a room in The Retreat. This exclusive section of the ship features luxury accommodations as well as access to a private restaurant, sun deck and lounge. Plus, rooms in The Retreat offer more space, measuring up to 1,892 square feet.

The Celebrity Apex sails to European destinations like Greece, Italy, Croatia and Portugal, as well as to Caribbean hot spots like St. Thomas , Puerto Rico , Belize and Grand Cayman . 

Viking Saturn

Debuted in May 2023, the adults-only Viking Saturn has the capacity to hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Travelers love the ship's clean Scandinavian design and compact size, which allows it to dock in smaller ports that larger cruise ships cannot reach.

On board, travelers have access to a slew of amenities, including a fitness center, a spa, a library, a state-of-the-art theater, a hair salon, an infinity pool and more. A resident historian is also on board to offer lectures and educational programming about upcoming port destinations. When hunger strikes, Viking Saturn offers an array of dining options, from fresh seafood at World Café to afternoon tea service at Wintergarden to traditional Norwegian cuisine at Mamsen's. Or, learn how to prepare regional dishes from your itinerary at the onboard cooking school.

Starting at 270 square feet, standard staterooms come equipped with king-size mattresses (which can be converted into two twin beds), flat-screen TVs, full-size verandas and bathrooms with heated floors. What's more, each accommodation includes 24-hour room service. Travelers who opt to stay in one of the ship's upgraded suites (which reach up to 1,448 square feet) have access to additional perks such as separate living areas and dining rooms, complimentary laundry services and a welcome bottle of Champagne, among other luxuries.

Viking Saturn sails to a variety of destinations in northern Europe (such as Bergen, Norway; London  and Stockholm ) and the Mediterranean (think: Barcelona, Spain ; Rome ; Athens, Greece ; and Istanbul ).

Seven Seas Splendor

Debuted in September 2021, the 746-passenger, 548-crew member Seven Seas Splendor is the newest ship within the Regent fleet. Seven Seas Splendor – along with most of the line's other ships – takes opulence to the next level by equipping each suite with its own private balcony. Other standard in-room amenities include interactive flat-screen TVs, luxurious bath products, bathrobes and slippers, signature queen-size beds and dining tables for two. There are 10 suite categories available, ranging from the smallest Veranda (307 square feet) and Deluxe Veranda suites (308 to 361 square feet) to the largest Regent (4,443 square feet) and Master suites (1,895 to 2,108 square feet). 

Guests have a wide array of things to do while on board. Spend your days relaxing at the spa, playing paddle tennis or bocce ball, working up a sweat on the jogging track or taking a dip in the ship's two whirlpools and two pools, one of which is an infinity-edge pool that stretches along the edge of the ship, providing swimmers with exceptional views of the ocean. At night, enjoy one of five shows at the onboard theater. 

When it comes to food, Seven Seas Splendor offers eight eateries ranging from casual to fine dining. Enjoy your breakfast alfresco at La Veranda and grub down for lunch at the Pool Grill buffet. For something more formal, opt for a French-inspired meal at Chartreuse, Pan-Asian dishes at Pacific Rim or Compass Rose, the largest restaurant on the ship.

Seven Seas Splendor visits a variety of European and Mediterranean destinations, as well as ports across Europe, the Caribbean, Africa and South America.

Viking Mars

Viking's newest ship, the Viking Mars accommodates 930 passengers and, since it's a smaller vessel, it can dock in many ports where some of the larger ocean-faring cruise ships can't reach. The all-veranda accommodations on this ship, which debuted in May 2022, range in size from around 270 square feet to 1,448 square feet. In-room amenities include free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, safes, minibars filled with drinks and snacks, robes, slippers and 24-hour room service.

Visitors will find a relaxing spa, a hair salon, a yoga area and a well-equipped indoor fitness center (plus an outdoor fitness center) aboard the ship. Those looking to unwind with a book in one hand and a cocktail in the other should snag a cozy spot in The Living Room. Like other Viking ships, the Viking Mars offers educational programming, lectures, cooking classes and more on board.

Cruisers can also enjoy amenities like the main pool and hot tub, the infinity pool, the cinema, the theater, a jazz lounge and various bars. Dining options on this ship include Manfredi's Italian Restaurant, Aquavit Terrace, World Café, The Chef's Table and The Kitchen Table.

Viking Mars receives rave reviews from recent cruisers. The variety of excursions, the delectable onboard dining and the comfortable cabins are a few things previous guests highlighted as superb. However, the staff received mixed reviews: Some experienced attentive and friendly employees, while a few noted they were expecting better service across the board for the price point.

Upcoming itineraries on the Viking Mars include cruises with ports of call in Iceland, Norway, Greece, Italy, Spain, the U.S. and Canada.

The 930-passenger Viking Sky – which debuted in February 2017 – receives rave reviews from past cruisers for its port-heavy itineraries (fares include one complimentary excursion per port) and luxurious, comfortable staterooms. Cabins offer between 270 and 1,448 square feet of space and include balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs and bathrooms with heated floors, among other amenities. Those who opt for an upgraded stateroom or suite are treated to additional perks, like priority reservations at the spa and specialty restaurants.

Viking Sky's activities include classes at the fitness center, treatments at the spa and destination-focused lectures. The ship also offers two pools and two whirlpools, including an infinity pool on the stern of the ship. In the evenings, passengers can enjoy live performances in the theater or watch destination-related movies in one of two cinemas.

Guests also have their choice of cuisine, from alfresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace to Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. With 550 crew members on board, the ship maintains a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio.

Viking Sky sails to the Mediterranean, Europe, Central America and more. The ship also offers world voyages.

Seven Seas Explorer

Regent Seven Seas Explorer debuted in 2016. It's one of the largest vessels in the fleet, welcoming up to 746 passengers. The ship makes service a top priority, with 548 crew members on board. According to past cruisers, the staff was friendly and attentive.

Travelers were even more impressed by the all-suite accommodations, which are some of the largest offered among ocean liners. All 373 suites include spacious balconies, marble bathrooms, walk-in closets, interactive flat-screen TVs and unlimited Wi-Fi.

Another high point: the cuisine. Explorer offers eight dining areas that range from the casual Pool Grill to Asian creations at Pacific Rim. As part of the 'Regent Experience,' all specialty dining is included in the cruise fare.

Outside the cabins, guests can spend their days participating in cooking demonstrations, lounging by the pool or relaxing in the library. At night, entertainment options include casino games, cocktail lounges and shows in the Constellation Theater. Complaints about this ship are few and far between, though some reviewers felt the entertainment could be more impressive. 

The best perk, according to recent passengers? All shore excursions are included. Seven Seas Explorer sails to destinations in Alaska, Asia, Australia and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pacific Rim is a favorite dining venue among cruisers, with its Asian-inspired cocktails and cuisine offering a selection of dishes from Thailand, Korea, China, Vietnam and Japan. Spin the bronze Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel as you enter the restaurant and be sure to sample the miso black cod. – Gwen Pratesi, Contributor

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Do You Need to Be Vaccinated to Cruise? It Depends on the Ship and Destination

While most cruise lines have scrapped covid vaccine and testing requirements, some companies and international cruise ports still have vaccination and testing rules in place..

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If you’re planning on sailing with Viking anytime soon, you’d better track down that COVID-19 vaccine certificate.

Courtesy of Viking

When cruising restarted in spring 2021, after a nearly 15-month pandemic-spurred shutdown imposed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cruisers faced a barrage of rules, including strict requirements for COVID-19 vaccinations and precruise COVID-19 testing. Later, the rules started to go by the wayside, and it was hard to keep track of who was requiring what. Not anymore.

Most cruise lines have now dropped or are soon dropping rules for both vaccinations and precruise testing, with at least one notable exception. Viking —on its river, ocean, and expedition ships—still requires everyone on board be fully vaccinated .

Another line that was still requiring COVID vaccinations, small-ship line Windstar Cruises, will be scrapping its vaccine mandate as of June 1, 2023. “We’ve invested in and improved our health and safety processes, including upgrading the HVAC systems on all of our ships, which has led to a cleaner and safer environment on board,” says Windstar president Christopher Prelog. “When combined with the widespread availability of vaccines and medical treatments, the risk factors are considerably lower now, giving us the confidence to lift the requirement.”

Are COVID vaccinations and testing still required for cruises?

Most cruise lines have dropped both their vaccine and testing requirements. Those that have lingered into 2023—mostly lines operating smaller ships—have been quietly scaling back their requirements.

The result: While there was a time after cruising restarted that you could be assured that your fellow passengers, at least those age 12 and up, were both fully vaccinated and tested for COVID-19 before getting on the ship, that is not the case anymore.

That said, specific countries have their own requirements, and several countries still require that cruise ship passengers are vaccinated and/or tested before arrival. If you are doing an itinerary outside of the Caribbean or Europe (where most vaccine and testing requirements have been dropped)—including to select countries in Central and South America or to Australia—you still have to read your cruise line’s precruise health and safety information carefully to make sure you comply with the latest requirements.

Contact your cruise line or check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories for the latest.

What to know before you cruise

Vaccine and pretrip testing requirements can be confusing, especially if you are cruising internationally. Cruise lines have their own rules; countries have their own rules.

Before your trip, you will need to review your cruise line’s health and safety protocols. If a precruise test is required by a certain country, you will find that noted. In this case, you may be required to arrive at your ship with a negative COVID-19 test result in hand or not. (If testing is required, it can typically be either a PCR test or tele-health-monitored antigen test , paid for by the passenger. The cruise line may also require a test at the pier, paid for by the cruise line.)

If being fully vaccinated is required, that means having received the original series of vaccines at least 14 days prior to your cruise, or the original series plus a booster shot or shots.

As was the case even before the pandemic, you will be asked at embarkation to fill out a questionnaire inquiring about your current health status and whether you currently have any symptoms of illness.

You are free to pack and wear masks on your cruise. Most cruise lines suggest you do wear masks in crowded indoor situations—but it’s not enforced.

A quick cruise line guide to COVID requirements

Here’s a rundown of the basic rules for some leading cruise lines. Note: There may be additional requirements if you are traveling internationally. Be sure to review the latest requirements prior to boarding.

American Queen Voyages

On American Queen Voyages’ river, ocean, Great Lakes, and expedition ships, there are no longer any precruise testing or vaccinations required. Face coverings are optional, though masks may be required of any passengers showing symptoms.

Precruise testing is no longer required for vaccinated guests sailing with Azamara , except in ports where testing is required. No vaccination is necessary for cruises departing from or returning to the United States or Europe. In Australia, all guests 12 years and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before sailing with all required COVID-19 vaccine doses (including a booster shot). Children under 12 years old are not required to be vaccinated.

Celebrity Cruises

No vaccination or testing is required on the majority of Celebrity Cruises sailings. Destinations with stricter requirements include: the Galápagos, Australia and New Zealand, transatlantic crossings, and select Central and South America itineraries. Unvaccinated guests need to be tested in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia.

As of April 23, 2023, on the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria , and as of June 8, 2023, on the Queen Elizabeth , vaccinations and testing will no longer be required by Cunard (until then, testing and vaccination requirements apply).

Disney Cruise Line

For sailings embarking from the United States, which are the bulk of Disney Cruise Line’s sailings, no vaccination or testing is required. Disney recommends all guests be vaccinated before sailing and take a test for COVID-19 two days prior to their cruise. There are additional requirements on repositioning cruises and in Australia, so it is important to check the line’s website before your cruise.

Holland America Line

There are no precruise testing or vaccination requirements on most Holland America Line itineraries. There are requirements on select voyages (you can look up a specific voyage’s requirements on the line’s website).

Lindblad Expeditions

For voyages embarking on or after May 11, 2023, Lindblad Expeditions will no longer require guests to be fully vaccinated, although the line recommends guests be fully vaccinated (for cruises prior to that time, all passengers age five and up must be vaccinated). Lindblad recommends, but does not require, passengers take a predeparture COVID-19 test within five days of the start of their expedition.

Oceania Cruises

Vaccine requirements are purely dependent on the destinations being visited on each Oceania cruise. Passengers are advised to be up to date on the latest regulations for all destinations on their cruise itinerary.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Effective April 2023, Paul Gauguin Cruises no longer requires that passengers are vaccinated or tested for COVID prior to embarkation, but it continues to encourage vaccination. “Paul Gauguin Cruises’ officers, staff and crew will remain fully vaccinated,” the line states. Travelers will need to present a health declaration form at embarkation.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Vaccines and precruise testing are generally not required to sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises . There are some requirements in place based on local health regulations in a specific country a ship is visiting. Regent notifies guests approximately 30 days prior to sailing of any country-specific protocols.

Royal Caribbean

No vaccine or precruise testing is required on the majority of Royal Caribbean itineraries, with a few exceptions: Cruises from Australia, transpacific and transatlantic sailings, and cruises from Hawai‘i to Vancouver.

No vaccine or testing required except on certain Seabourn itineraries where a country may have specific requirements.

No vaccination is required for Silversea passengers except as designated by the destination. Precruise testing is not required except when specified by a destination.

Viking Cruises

All passengers and crew are required to be vaccinated on Viking’s river, ocean, and expedition ships—without exception. Viking strongly recommends passengers receive a booster dose before departing. Viking recommends but does not require a predeparture COVID-19 test (except if required by a destination).

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has no precruise testing or vaccination requirements. Masks may be required at select times.

Windstar Cruises

Beginning June 1, 2023, Windstar will no longer require guests to be vaccinated. Crew will continue to be vaccinated. Masks are optional, with the line highly recommending guests wear masks in indoor public spaces. All guests fill out a health questionnaire on embarkation. A precruise COVID-19 test is not required unless you show symptoms.

This article was originally published in May 2022; it was most recently updated on April 19, 2023, with current information.

Everything to Know Before Booking Your First Cruise

By Mark Ellwood and Ramsey Qubein

Approaching how to book a cruise for the first time has always been somewhat daunting, with a dizzying assortment of itineraries, companies, destinations, and ships to choose from. How can first-timers  book a cruise without going wrong? We asked three  Traveler -approved experts for their seasoned advice: Gene Sloan is cruise editor for  The Points Guy ; Jason Leppert is cruise editor for  TravelAge West ; Carolyn Spencer Brown is  Cruise Media’s chief content officer. All three are industry experts that have decades of experience across various types of cruises.

What’s the ideal cruise length for a first-timer?

A week or so is the  sweet spot for most first-time cruisers , which will offer three to six ports. Three-day sampler itineraries won’t allow you to explore more than one or two destinations, and you can’t decompress as thoroughly, either. Still, Leppert suggests a weekend trip could be enough for those that just want to try out cruising for the first time to see if you like it. 

While that’s  a good idea for some, Sloan also points out that cruise lines don’t always put their best ships on shorter runs. The ships on these itineraries can sometimes be older and have fewer of the bells and whistles that draw people to cruising in the first place. He says it is not exactly representative of the latest cruising has to offer, and the destinations on super-short cruises are not always the most unique offerings.

What’s the best way to book a cruise?

Many may wonder: Is it cheaper to book a cruise direct? Sure, you can  book a cruise online—but it’s a rookie mistake. Smart cruisers know the best place to book a cruise is with a  travel agent . Though agents’ roles have diminished in the mass-market travel biz, they remain crucial for cruising. Not only can specialists offer seasoned advice, but they can also wrangle deals and promos: Ask them about shipboard credit, which is the ocean equivalent of a gift card to spend onboard—$100 or so is a standard bonus. They may also have access to group rates, according to Sloan. Even if their prices are similar to those when booking direct, the volume of business agents do with cruise lines means you are more likely to score perks like a cabin upgrade or welcome bottle of Champagne when using one.

As the industry reinvents itself in the wake of the pandemic, it’s never been more important to have expert counsel, adds Spencer Brown. “At the end of the day, you’re going on this trip to relax, have fun, learn something, and get away from your everyday world. I want that support system.”

If something goes wrong, an agent can help rectify the situation faster than you may be able to if you go it alone. You won’t be paying more for their service, either. Most make their money via commissions from the cruise lines. Leppert calls it “the best of the best” advice to go with a travel advisor. 

What’s the best time to book a cruise?

If you're looking to leverage new cruise deals, the best way to  book a cruise is by starting early since prices continue to be robust. “There’s so much pent-up demand. People haven’t traveled for a year or more, so they’re spending more money on the trips they’re going on—upgrading to a nicer suite, perhaps,” says Spencer Brown. This could make it harder to secure the cabin you want on the sailing you want.

Leppert highlights  Wave Season (January through March) for booking a future cruise since this is when cruise lines typically announce their best deals although last-minute bargains always pop up. Like Spencer Brown, he says that demand is outpacing inventory so it is best to book as soon as possible.

Sloan agrees and says people  book cruises much further in advance than a hotel or flight, which means that inventory can get gobbled up quickly. Many cruise lines open up their reservation window as far as two years in advance, which means certain cabins can get snatched up. Don’t forget that many travelers are looking to use leftover credits they have from the pandemic, which further compounds the demand.

Most major cruise lines offer the equivalent of a price adjustment—if the cost of your cruise drops after you pay a deposit, but before the final payment, you’ll be protected, and refunded the difference. This means there is little penalty to reserving as early as possible.

What are the best types of cruises for first-timers?

Opt for a winter sun trip in the  Caribbean . It’s easy and affordable to reach the boarding port, and shuttling between the clusters of islands offers a compact, convenient way to experience a multitude of cultures. “Think of a cruise as a tapas menu,” says Spencer Brown—it allows you to sample destinations to which you might later return for a longer visit. Even handier, when on a Caribbean cruise almost every island accepts payment in dollars, so there’s no need to juggle currencies. The waters also are largely calm, keeping seasickness to a minimum.

River cruising is another smart first-time choice, adds Spencer Brown. “You can literally walk off the ship into town, go to a park or ride a bike, or just sit on the top deck breathing the air—it’s marvelous,” she says. 

Sloan offers another take saying that your travel budget should lead the way. If you are prepared to drop $1,000 a night on a cruise, start out on an upscale line with smaller ships like Silversea Cruises or Seabourn. These will give you a taste of cruising with fewer passengers, and often to smaller, less-frequented ports. 

If the budget leans more toward the $100 per-day price point, try one of the newer mega-ships from Norwegian Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean. These newer ships can have a bustling resort vibe that will keep you busy no matter what your cabin type.

Seasoned cruisers know that ship amenities are often less buys while at port.

Understanding cabin categories

There’s a dizzying array of options (and pricing) for staterooms, especially on larger ships. First-timers who simply want a place to crash often book the cheapest category, an interior cabin with no window or balcony. 

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If you fall for the trappings of a bargain-basement deal, that cheapie stateroom might be right across from the service area, with a door slamming shut 24/7 or underneath the kitchen, with heavy carts rolling at 6 a.m. Avoid cabins below frequently used passageways on the top decks where footsteps and the sound of deck chairs moving frequently can be annoying. Even higher category cabins can be one deck below the main deck so it is wise to ask about this when reserving.

There are several websites with exhaustive cruise deck plan maps that offer advice and user-generated feedback, almost like a sea-going counterpart to SeatGuru’s airline seat maps. These can be a lifesaver when choosing a cabin type.

The scoop on shore excursions

For a first-timer, these can be confusing. Details aren’t often added to an itinerary until six months or so before sail date; check back regularly, snap up a place on any excursions that are of interest, and book early—popular options can reach capacity long before sailing. 

Still, some travelers choose to go off-menu and arrange private excursions, using independent companies, which can often be cheaper than the line's options. Just keep in mind that when taking an independent excursion, the ship won’t wait for you if you’re late. Staying with the cruise line’s jaunts may be more expensive, but is a safer bet if you are not sure of a new destination.

Sloan says that it really depends where the ship is going. In some ports like Barcelona or Venice, it is easy to venture off on your own without an excursion. Others, however, may require longer drives or special access passes making excursions a safer bet.

Another consideration is to use port days to spend more time on the ship. Leppert notes that onboard amenities like pools, buffets and waterslides are less crowded when most people are ashore. If a particular destination doesn’t appeal to you (or perhaps you have been many times before), it’s ok to enjoy the ship instead.

What is a sea day?

Transits, when the ship is en route between ports, are known as sea days (like the term shore excursions, it's more  cruise lingo ); passengers, obviously, remain on board. Many newbies fret about wasting time at sea rather than exploring, but they’re often a fun chance to explore the ship itself, as well as decompress between ports. Some travelers actually  book cruises that have at least one or two sea days, especially if it’s a larger ship with loads of amenities like water parks, race car tracks, zip lining, and multiple shows. 

What's the best first cruise for a family?

The mega ships are always primed to be the best first choice for families, whether Norwegian’s 4,200-passenger  Escape or the newest Oasis class of ships beginning with the  new  Wonder of the Seas . Their emphasis is on activities like adrenaline-rushing water slides, surf simulators, and three-tiered race tracks.

Disney Cruise Line is an obvious place to start for families, but it has a surprising number of activities and experiences for adults, too, including adults-only areas on board. Still, this isn’t the line for an adult-only vacation unless you’re a hard-core Disney fan.

How much does it cost to book a cruise?

You may be wondering how much does a 7-day cruise usually cost? The answer is that it depends. The time of year you travel (avoid school holidays, for example), the destination, and the ports of call can affect the overall cost. 

Many travelers enjoy, for example, taking repositioning cruises. These happen typically as the seasons change and cruise lines move their ships from one region to another (between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, for example). Sometimes, these cruises visit islands that are rarely frequented making them more expensive. Many experts say that they are not ideal for first-time cruisers, however, as there may be many sea days. 

Shorter cruises that rely on drive-market travelers typically come with a lower price point than those in far-flung destinations. Special deals and repeat traveler discounts can also affect the overall cost.

What is the cheapest cruise ship to go on?

These are generally the shorter sailings from Miami or Port Canaveral, for instance, using the larger brands like Carnival, Princess Cruises, or Royal Caribbean, according to Sloan. The best deals are generally in the fall (the low season for Florida departures). Cruises to the Bahamas or the Caribbean tend to be more affordable than those to places like Europe or Alaska.

West Coast travelers can find great bargain deals on cruises to Mexico, too, adds Leppert.

What to know about cruise insurance

Don’t skimp on  cruise insurance . Cruise vacations can easily fall prey to flight disruptions or storms that can snarl plans. Check online for insurance policies from places like VisitorsCoverage and Seven Corners, which have reasonable prices for comprehensive coverage.

If you’re flying to the embarkation point, plan to arrive the day before—even the most perfect cruise won’t wait if you’re stuck in air traffic congestion all morning. Yet another reason to ensure you’re insured.

The Best Way to Travel to Your Cruise Ship

You’ve booked a cruise, so now what? You selected your preferred ship and itinerary , but the trip planning is far from over. Getting to your cruise port safety, stress-free and on-time is your next big concern. Can I drive there or should I fly? There is a huge range of variables to consider based on striking the right balance between cost and convenience, and reducing the impact should things go wrong. There is the matter of finding cruise ship parking for your car, or arranging a convenient cruise port transfer from the airport among other considerations. Here are the key tips and tricks to ensure you never miss the boat and arrive at port, refreshed and ready for a fantastic cruise vacation.  

Where do most cruisers depart from?

What are the transportation options to get to your cruise, which travel option is best for your cruise vacation, make transportation to the cruise port part of the vacation.

With the three busiest cruise ports in the world located in the Sunshine State, it’s no surprise that Florida is the top choice for cruise vacations. Port of Miami , Port Canaveral and Port Everglades lead the way with millions of cruise ship embarkations every year. Tampa, Port of Palm Beach and Jacksonville round out Florida’s cruise port options. Why is it such a hit with cruisers? That’s simple - the world’s top cruise region is right on their doorstep. Florida is the undisputed king of the short cruise market due to its proximity for short cruises to the Caribbean, which have sustained the growth of cruising. Short ‘taster’ cruises of 2-3 nights to the nearby Bahamas and the Caribbean are a big lure for first-time cruisers and there are dozens of sailing every week out of Florida ports. There are busy international airports close by and a dizzying array of options for transportation to the cruise port. 

To the west of the Sunshine State, the Gulf Coast ports of Galveston, Texas, New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama collectively pull in several million cruisers a year for short and medium length Caribbean and Mexico cruises.

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Not everyone is fortunate enough to live on the doorstep of a cruise ship homeport. That means getting to a cruise port predominantly means driving or flying. Both options have an up side and drawbacks depending on how much time you have to invest in getting there, overall costs and the convenience factor. But what if there was a middle ground between these two options? In a perfect world no one really wants to endure a long distance drive, and many people – even veteran cruisers – simply refuse to fly. It is a little known fact that every cruise port city is served by an Amtrak train station, including cross-country long distance overnight services. Most downtown train stations are just a short hop from the cruise port. It’s a third option worth considering for lovers of slow travel, who would rather leave the car at home and not have to worry about cruise port parking facilities.

Which is the preferred method of getting to your ship?

It is estimated that cruise ships are homeported around the country within driving distance of about 75 percent of the American population. This is an obvious attraction for Floridians with so many cruise vacation options in their backyard. The statistics bear this out. According to Cruise Lines International Association’s 2018 Cruise Travel Report consumer research, a huge 86 percent of Florida residents continue to take cruises to the Caribbean , Bahamas and Mexico, suggesting a predominantly drive-to market for Florida’s main cruise ports. This very evident when you realize just how many different options there are for cruise ship parking. It is a similar picture for cruisers living in nearby states such as Georgia and North Carolina, and Texas, which offers its own local options at Galveston and other nearby Gulf Coast ports. Getting to cruise port from major metro areas like Houston is pretty hassle free, be it driving or taking a cruise port transfer.

Yet, cruisers are flying in to Florida in great numbers too, especially from up the East Coast and Midwest, as well as a sizable market from California. California of course has its own vibrant local cruise market, from short cruise getaways to Baja Mexico to longer Alaska and Hawaii itineraries. These destinations are only served from the West Coast (along with Seattle) so they inevitably receive a high proportion of fly-in cruisers jetting in from around the country. When f lying to the cruise port, there are a few things to consider when you want to get the best flight .

When it comes to transportation to cruise ports there really is no simple one-size-fits-all answer. The distance from home to embarkation port is a big factor in the driving vs flying conundrum. When both options are feasible, the decision about getting to the cruise port comes down to a combination of cost, convenience and comfort. If traveling as a family or a group of friends and the driving distance is manageable, then go ahead and take that road trip. The gas, toll road charges and cruise ship parking fees can sure add up, but is probably unlikely to exceed the cost of airfares, luggage fees and cruise port transfer for a family of four, for example.  Driving means you are not tied to rigid schedules and can take it as leisurely as you wish with a couple of side trips or an overnight in a motel along the way. Of course there is always the chance of getting stuck on a crowded freeway, taking a wrong turn or being impacted by bad weather.

It’s all about your preferred travel style. If the thought of many long hours behind the wheel fills you with dread, then let the plane take the strain. Getting to the cruise port city as quickly as possible is for some cruisers, worth the pain of crowded airport terminals, long security lines and the dreaded middle seat. 

1. Flying in a few days before your cruise starts

Seasoned cruisers know it makes sense to arrive in the embarkation city a day or two before sailing. It’s a tried and trusted strategy that avoids any extra travel anxiety – there is already enough to worry about on embarkation day without the fear of possible traffic delays, an unsuitable airport - to - cruise transfer, or missed connections. You’ll wake up on the day of embarkation refreshed and rearing to start your cruise vacation, and getting to cruise port is just a short ride away. An extra day or more gives you the opportunity to explore the surroundings in a more leisurely fashion rather than cramming everything in a few hours prior to sailing or post-cruise. When it’s time to check-in for the sailing, the kids will already be in vacation mode rather than fighting off jet lag-induced fatigue.

Accomodation prior to embarkation day

Arriving a day early (or more) means planning ahead and booking hotel accommodations in advance. Every cruise port city has dozens of suitable options within easy reach of the port across most budget levels. Cruise lines offer their own inclusive pre-cruise stay programs on selected sailings, although the options may be fairly limited and tend to be on the pricier side. There is nothing stopping you doing it yourself.  So, where to start? The good news is you are not alone. Check out cruise messaging boards for inspiration and tips.  Every conceivable question regarding hotels for cruisers has likely been answered, such as does it have a free shuttle to the port and free cruise ship parking lots. Browse the boards for a while and you’ll soon get a feel for the top hotels that cater best to cruisers. 

2. Ground transfers between your hotel or flight and the cruise ship

A cruise line operated cruise port transfer from the airport is relatively hassle-free and can be arranged when you book your cruise. The down side is you’ll likely pay more compared to other options, especially if traveling in a group of three or more people. Transfer fares are calculated per person so the price can rack up. Invariably, they will be other transportation operators able to undercut the cruise lines’ price. Additionally private car cruise shuttles may be affordable for a small group. Shop around but factor in not only the price but cruise port transfer timings too – there is nothing worse than hanging around at the airport for hours waiting for other passengers to arrive on later flights.  

If you are flying in a day before embarkation, you’ll need to arrange the transportation to cruise port yourself or take advantage of a private or shared hotel shuttle service if available. Many hotels offer this either inclusive of the room rate or as an extra fee.

3. Driving your vehicle to the cruise port

If you want to optimize your pre- and post-cruise time while still giving yourself ample flexibility, driving to the port might just be the answer. Of course, the distance in getting to the cruise port is the obvious primary factor; recovery time after an epic overnight road trip could seriously eat into your first day aboard. However, there are numerous benefits of driving to the cruise ship terminal. 

Firstly you are in total control. You’re not tied to inconvenient flight schedules and can skip the stress of seemingly endless security lines and the dreaded checked bag fees. That means you can pack exactly what you want without worrying about stingy weight allowances and you’ll never have to fret over a missed flight connection or a lost bag in transit. Once you load up the car with your bags, you never have to worry about them again until you arrive at port parking or at your pre-cruise hotel. 

Parking at the cruise port

You may save a small fortune on airfares and those checked baggage fees by driving, but you still need to find a secure home for your vehicle while you enjoy a week of Caribbean island hopping. There are a ton of options for port parking - covered and uncovered lots, onsite or offsite with a shuttle bus transfer, and valet parking. Unsurprisingly at major cruise hubs like Port Miami, the per day costs can vary widely. As a rule of thumb, the closer it is to the cruise terminal, the more you’ll likely pay. The difference can be three or four-fold, so it pays to do some cruise ship parking research. At some ports you’ll be able to save a few dollars with online prepaid parking, giving you a reserved spot.  

Or, how about free cruise parking? Well, kind of. Book a pre-cruise overnight hotel stay and take advantage of up to a week’s free cruise ship parking. There are options aplenty close to most major cruise ports with hotels offering cruise and park packages. Simply book a one-night stay and take the (free or paid for) hotel shuttle service to the port. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not only high-end hotels that offer this service. There are mid-range and even a few budget priced options.

Here is what the average parking cost per day looks like:

4. Other options to get to your cruise ship terminal

Public transportation has the obvious attraction of being the most affordable option, but is rarely a seamless experience.  A subway, bus or train (or a combination of these) will get you close to your cruise port of choice but the final leg may still involve a short hop by taxi. Hauling bags onto crowded buses or local commuter trains is hardly the ideal way to start a relaxing cruise vacation. Exceptions include San Francisco and Boston where it is possible to go by public transit all the way from the airport to the cruise port.

Cruise line or independent cruise port transfer services from the airport can be pricey with per person fares, so for a family of four for example, a taxi could work out a much better deal. Better still, an Uber ride will invariably be even cheaper as long as they are permitted to pick up from your chosen airport. 

They say half of the fun is getting there. That is certainly true once onboard and enjoying the cruising life, but the transportation to cruise port needn’t be overloaded with stress and anxiety either. It’s all about having realistic expectations, and a little forward planning to take any travel mishap in your stride. It can and should be part of the vacation experience.  

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Check out these articles for more information on the costs of cruising:

• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• What Is Included in Your Cruise Fare?
• Top 10 Tips on How to get the Best Cruise Deals

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Cruise Ship Travel

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Kara Tardivel, Stefanie White, Aimee Treffiletti, Amy Freeland

Cruise Ship Medical Capabilities

Illness & injury, infectious disease health risks, noninfectious health risks, travel preparation.

Cruise ship travel presents a unique combination of health concerns. Travelers from diverse regions brought together in the often crowded, semi-enclosed shipboard environment can facilitate the spread of person-to-person, foodborne, and waterborne diseases. Outbreaks on ships can be sustained over multiple voyages by crewmembers who remain onboard, or by persistent environmental contamination. Port visits can expose travelers to local diseases and, conversely, be a conduit for disease introduction into shoreside communities.

Some people (e.g., those with chronic health conditions or who are immunocompromised, older people, pregnant people) merit additional considerations when preparing for a cruise. Because travelers at sea might need to rely on a ship’s medical capabilities for an extended period, potential cruise passengers with preexisting medical needs should prepare accordingly by calling the cruise line’s customer service center to learn what type and level of health care services are (and are not) available on specific ships.

Medical facilities on cruise ships can vary widely depending on ship size, itinerary, cruise duration, and passenger demographics. Generally, shipboard medical centers can provide medical care comparable to that of ambulatory care centers; some are capable of providing hospitalization services or renal dialysis. Although no agency officially regulates medical practice aboard cruise ships, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) published consensus-based guidelines for cruise ship medical facilities in 1995, and updated the guidelines in 2013. ACEP guidelines , which most major cruise lines follow, state that cruise ship medical facilities should be able to provide quality medical care for passengers and crew; initiate appropriate stabilization, diagnostic, and therapeutic maneuvers for critically ill or medically unstable patients; and assist in the medical evacuation of patients in a timely fashion, when appropriate.

Cruise ship medical centers deal with a wide variety of illnesses and injuries; ≈10% of conditions reported to cruise ship medical centers are an emergency or require urgent care. Approximately 95% of illnesses are treated or managed onboard, with the remainder requiring evacuation and shoreside consultation for dental, medical, or surgical issues. Roughly half of all passengers seeking medical care are >65 years old.

Medical center visits are primarily the result of acute illness or injury. The most frequently reported diagnoses include respiratory illnesses (30%–40%); injuries from slips, trips, or falls (12%–18%); seasickness (10%); and gastrointestinal (GI) illness (10%); 80% of onboard deaths are due to cardiovascular events.

Infectious Disease Outbreaks

The most frequently reported cruise ship outbreaks involve GI infections (e.g., norovirus), respiratory infections (e.g., coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19], influenza), and other vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), such as varicella. Although cruise ships do not have public health authority, to reduce the risk of introducing communicable diseases, some ships conduct medical screening during embarkation to identify ill passengers, prevent them from boarding, or require isolation if permission to board is given.

Before travel, to help limit the introduction and spread of communicable diseases on cruise ships, prospective cruise ship travelers and their clinicians should consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health website for updates on outbreaks and destination-specific travel health notices. People who become ill with a communicable disease before a voyage should consult their health care provider and delay their travel until they are no longer contagious. When booking a cruise, travelers should check the trip cancellation policies and consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ).

Travelers who become ill during a voyage should seek care in the ship’s medical center; the onboard staff will provide clinical management, facilitate infection-control measures, and take responsibility for reporting potential public health events. For information on how to report travelers who become ill with suspected communicable diseases after they return home from a cruise, see Sec. 8, Ch. 8, Airplanes & Cruise Ships: Illness & Death Reporting & Public Health Interventions .

Gastrointestinal Illnesses

During 2006–2019, rates of GI illness among passengers on voyages lasting 3–21 days fell from 32.5 to 16.9 cases per 100,000 travel days. Despite the decrease, outbreaks continue to occur. CDC assists the cruise ship industry to prevent and control the introduction, transmission, and spread of GI illnesses on cruise ships. See information on cruise ship GI illnesses and updates on GI illness outbreaks involving ships with US ports of call, specifically.

On cruise ships, >90% of GI illness outbreaks with a confirmed cause are due to norovirus. Characteristics of norovirus that facilitate outbreaks include a low infective dose, easy person-to-person transmissibility, prolonged viral shedding, absence of long-term immunity, and the ability of the virus to survive routine cleaning procedures (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 16, Norovirus ). For international cruise ships porting in the United States during 2006–2019, an average of 12 norovirus outbreaks occurred each year.

Other Sources of Gastrointestinal Illness

GI outbreaks on cruise ships also have been caused by contaminated food or water; most outbreaks were associated with  Campylobacter ,  Clostridium perfringens , or enterotoxigenic  Escherichia coli .

Protective Measures

Travelers can reduce the risk of acquiring a GI illness on cruise ships by frequently washing hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Travelers should call the ship’s medical center promptly, even for mild symptoms of a GI illness, and strictly follow cruise ship guidance regarding isolation and other infection-control measures.

Respiratory Illnesses

Respiratory illnesses are the most common medical complaint on cruise ships. During the pretravel visit, evaluate whether vaccines or boosters (e.g., COVID-19, influenza) are needed and emphasize the importance of practicing good respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette while onboard. As with GI illnesses, cruise ship passengers should report respiratory illness to the medical center promptly and follow isolation recommendations as instructed.

Coronavirus Disease 2019

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes COVID-19, spreads more easily between people in close quarters, and multiple studies have concluded that transmission rates of SARS-CoV-2 among travelers on ships are much greater than in other settings. Cruise ship COVID-19 outbreaks can tax onboard medical and public health resources. Ship-to-shore medical evacuations to facilities capable of providing higher levels of medical care can present logistical challenges and pose additional risks to ill patients.

Cruise passengers and crewmembers who are not up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines are at increased risk for severe illness, hospitalization, medical evacuation, and death. Since cruising will always pose some risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, ensure that people planning cruise ship travel are up to date with their vaccinations, and assess their likelihood for developing severe COVID-19. For people at increased risk of severe COVID-19 regardless of their vaccination status (e.g., pregnant people, people who are immunocompromised), discuss the potential health hazards associated with cruise ship travel. CDC has developed recommendations and guidance designed to help cruise ship operators provide a safer and healthier environment for crewmembers, passengers, port personnel, and communities.

Historically, influenza has been among the most often reported VPDs occurring on cruise ships. Because passengers and crew originate from all regions of the globe, shipboard outbreaks of influenza A and B can occur year-round, with exposure to strains circulating in different parts of the world (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 12, Influenza ). Thus, anyone planning a cruise should receive the current seasonal influenza vaccine ≥2 weeks before travel if vaccine is available and no contraindications exist. For people at high risk for influenza complications, health care providers should discuss chemoprophylaxis and how and when to initiate antiviral treatment.

See additional guidance on the prevention and control of influenza on cruise ships .

Legionnaires’ Disease

Less common on cruise ships, Legionnaires’ disease is nevertheless a treatable infection that can result in severe pneumonia leading to death (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 9, Legionnaires’ Disease & Pontiac Fever ). Approximately 10%–15% of all Legionnaires’ disease cases reported to CDC occur in people who have traveled during the 10 days before symptom onset. Clusters of Legionnaires’ disease associated with hotel or cruise ship travel can be difficult to detect, because travelers often disperse from the source of infection before symptoms begin. Data reported to CDC during 2014–2015 included 25 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease associated with cruise ship exposures.

In general, Legionnaires’ disease is contracted by inhaling warm, aerosolized water containing the bacteria,  Legionella . Transmission also can sometimes occur through aspiration of  Legionella -containing water. Typically, people do not spread  Legionella  to others; a single episode of possible person-to-person transmission of Legionnaires’ disease has been reported. Contaminated hot tubs are commonly implicated as a source of shipboard  Legionella  outbreaks, although potable water supply systems also have been culpable. Improvements in ship design and standardization of water disinfection have reduced the risk for  Legionella  growth and colonization.

Diagnosis & Reporting

People with suspected Legionnaires’ disease require prompt antibiotic treatment. When evaluating cruise travelers for Legionnaires’ disease, obtain a thorough travel history of all destinations during the 10 days before symptom onset to assist in identifying potential sources of exposure, and collect urine for  Legionella  antigen testing. Most cruise ships have the capacity to perform this test, which detects  L. pneumophila  serogroup 1, the most common serogroup.

Perform culture of lower respiratory secretions on selective media to detect non– L. pneumophila  serogroup 1 species and serogroups. Culture also is used for comparing clinical isolates to environmental isolates during an outbreak investigation. Notify CDC of any travel-associated Legionnaires’ disease cases by sending an email to [email protected]. Quickly report all cases of Legionnaires’ disease to public health officials, who can determine whether a case links to previously reported cases and work to stop potential clusters and new outbreaks.

Other Vaccine-Preventable Diseases

Although most cruise ship passengers come from countries with routine vaccination programs (e.g., Canada, the United States), many of the crew are from low- or middle-income countries where immunization rates can be low. Outbreaks of hepatitis A, measles, meningococcal disease, mumps, pertussis, rubella, and varicella have all been reported on cruise ships. The majority (82%) of these outbreaks occur among crewmembers; prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, varicella was the most frequently reported VPD. Other VPDs (e.g., pertussis) occur more often among passengers.

Each cruise line sets its own policies regarding vaccinations for its crew; some have limited or no requirements. Thus, all passengers should be up to date with routine vaccinations before travel, as well as any required or recommended vaccinations specific for their destinations. People of childbearing age should have documented immunity to measles, rubella, and varicella (either by vaccination or titer) before cruise ship travel.

Vectorborne Diseases

Some cruise ship ports of call include destinations where vectorborne diseases (e.g., dengue, Japanese encephalitis, malaria, yellow fever, Zika) are known to be endemic. In addition, new diseases can surface in unexpected locations; chikungunya was reported for the first time in the Caribbean in late 2013, with subsequent spread throughout the region and numerous other North, Central, and South American countries and territories. Zika was first reported in Brazil in 2015, and subsequently spread across the Caribbean and Latin America, sparking concern because of its association with microcephaly and other congenital abnormalities in the fetus. For disease-specific information, see the relevant chapters of Section 5.

For guidance on how to avoid bites from mosquitoes and other disease-transmitting arthropod vectors, both onboard and while on shore at ports of call, see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods . For specific details on yellow fever vaccination and malaria prevention, see Sec. 2, Ch. 5, Yellow Fever Vaccine & Malaria Prevention Information, by Country .

Stresses of cruise ship travel include varying weather and environmental conditions, and unaccustomed changes to diet and levels of physical activity. Despite modern stabilizer systems, seasickness is a common complaint, affecting up to 25% of travelers (see Sec. 8, Ch. 7, Motion Sickness ). Note that travel is an independent risk factor for behaviors such as alcohol and illicit drug use and misuse (see Sec. 3, Ch. 5, Substance Use & Substance Use Disorders ), and unsafe sex (see Sec. 9, Ch. 12, Sex & Travel ).

Cruise ship travelers have complex itineraries due to multiple short port visits. Although most port visits do not include overnight stays off ship, some trips offer travelers the opportunity to venture off the ship for ≥1 night. These excursions can complicate decisions about exposures and the need for specific antimicrobial prophylaxis, immunizations, and other prevention measures.  Boxes 8-04  and  8-05  summarize recommended cruise travel preparations and healthy behaviors during travel for health care providers and cruise ship travelers.

Box 8-04 Healthy cruise travel preparation: a checklist for health care providers

Risk assessment & risk communication.

☐ Discuss itinerary, including season, duration of travel, and activities at ports of call. ☐ Review the traveler’s medical and immunization history, allergies, and any additional health needs. ☐ Discuss relevant travel-specific health hazards and risk reduction. ☐ Provide travelers with documentation of their medical history, immunizations, and medications.

VACCINATION & RISK MANAGEMENT

☐ Provide routinely recommended (age-specific), required (yellow fever), and recommended vaccines. ☐ Discuss safe food and water precautions. ☐ Discuss insect bite prevention. ☐ Provide older travelers with a baseline electrocardiogram, especially those with coronary artery disease.

MEDICATIONS BASED ON RISK & NEED

☐ Consider prescribing malaria chemoprophylaxis if itinerary includes stops in malaria-endemic areas. ☐ Consider prescribing motion sickness medications for self-treatment.

Box 8-05 Healthy cruise travel preparation: a checklist for travelers

☐ Carry prescription drugs in original containers with a copy of the prescription and a physician’s letter. ☐ Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Outbreak Updates for International Cruise Ships website for gastrointestinal outbreaks. ☐ Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage for overseas health care and medical evacuation. ☐ Consult medical and dental providers before cruise travel. ☐ Consult CDC Travelers’ Health website for travel health notices . ☐ Defer travel while acutely ill. ☐ Evaluate the type and length of the planned cruise in the context of personal health requirements. ☐ Notify the cruise line of additional health needs (e.g., dialysis, supplemental oxygen, wheelchair). ☐ Pack Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)–registered insect repellent; consider treating clothes and gear with permethrin. ☐ Pack sunscreen.

DURING TRAVEL

☐ Avoid contact with people who are ill. ☐ Follow safe food and water precautions when eating off ship at ports of call. ☐ Maintain good fluid intake and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. ☐ Practice safe sex. ☐ Report all illnesses to ship’s medical center and follow their recommendations. ☐ Use insect bite precautions during port visits, especially in vectorborne disease–endemic areas or areas experiencing outbreaks of vectorborne diseases (e.g., Zika, yellow fever) ☐ Use sun protection. ☐ Wash hands frequently with soap and water; if soap and water are not available, use ≥60% alcohol–based hand sanitizer.

POST TRAVEL

☐ See CDC’s latest post-cruise health guidance regarding coronavirus disease 2019.

Travelers with Additional Considerations

Travelers with chronic illnesses and travelers with disabilities who have additional needs (e.g., dialysis, supplemental oxygen, wheelchairs) should inform their cruise line before traveling. Highly allergic travelers and travelers with underlying medical conditions should carry a file that contains essential, pertinent health information (e.g., allergies, blood type, chest radiograph [if abnormal], chronic conditions, electrocardiogram, medication list, primary and/or specialty care provider contact information). Travelers also should bring any medications recommended by their health care provider (e.g., an epinephrine auto-injector) to help facilitate care during a medical emergency. For detailed information on preparing travelers who have additional considerations for international travel, including severe allergies, chronic illness, disabilities, or immune compromise, see Section 3.

Pregnant Travelers

Most cruise lines have policies that do not permit people to board after their 24th week of pregnancy. Contact cruise lines directly for specific guidance before booking. For additional information on preparing pregnant people for international travel, see Sec. 7, Ch. 1, Pregnant Travelers .

Insurance Coverage

All prospective cruise travelers should verify coverage with their health insurance carriers and, if not included, consider purchasing additional insurance to cover medical evacuation and health services received onboard cruise ships and in foreign countries (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ).

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Kara Tardivel, Stefanie B. White, Krista Kornylo Duong

Bibliography

Hill CD. Cruise ship travel. In: Keystone JS, Kozarsky PE, Connor BA, Nothdurft HD, Mendelson M, editors. Travel medicine, 4th edition. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier; 2019. pp. 377–82. 

Jenkins KA, Vaughan GHJ, Rodriguez LO, Freeland AL. Acute gastroenteritis on cruise ships—United States, 2006–2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2021;70(6):1–19. 

Kordsmeyer A-C, Mojtahedzadeh N, Heidrich J, Militzer K, von Münster T, Belz L, et al. Systematic review on outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 on cruise, navy and cargo ships. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(10):5195. 

Millman AJ, Kornylo Duong K, Lafond K, Green NM, Lippold SA, Jhung MA. Influenza outbreaks among passengers and crew on two cruise ships: a recent account of preparedness and response to an ever-present challenge. J Travel Med. 2015;22(5):306–11. 

Mouchtouri VA, Lewis HC, Hadjichristodoulou C. A systematic review for vaccine-preventable diseases on ships: evidence for cross-border transmission and for pre-employment immunization need. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019;16(15):2713. 

Payne DC, Smith-Jeffcoat SE, Nowak G, Chuwkwuma U, Geibe JR, Hawkins RJ, et al. SARS-CoV-2 infections and serologic responses from a Sample of U.S. Navy service members—USS Theodore Roosevelt, April 2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020;69(23):714–21. 

Peake DE, Gray CL, Ludwig MR, Hill CD. Descriptive epidemiology of injury and illness among cruise ship passengers. Ann Emerg Med. 1999;33(1):67–72. 

Rice ME, Bannerman M, Marin M, Lopez AS, Lewis MM, Stamatakis CE, et al. Maritime varicella illness and death reporting, U.S., 2010–2015. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2018;23:27–33. 

Rocklöv J, Sjödin H, Wilder-Smith A. COVID-19 outbreak on the Diamond Princess cruise ship: estimating the epidemic potential and effectiveness of public health countermeasures. J Travel Med. 2020;27(3):taaa030. 

Stamatakis CE, Rice ME, Washburn FM, Krohn KJ, Bannerman M, et al. Maritime illness and death reporting and public health response, United States, 2010–2014. J Travel Med Inf Dis. 2017;19:16–21.

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19 Shocking Cruise Ship Secrets And Tips I Learned After Going On Seven Cruises

Booking a cruise is just like buying a car, meaning you can negotiate the price and get bonus perks, so ~never~ pay the price you see online.

BuzzFeed Staff

Hey! I'm Spencer , and I just got back from my seventh cruise. I've seen and learned a lot of really cool behind-the-scenes secrets while traveling the world on these ships, so I wanted to share some of the most interesting ones with you here, including some tips that may be helpful for your own future adventures. Enjoy!

For context, I've traveled on four different cruise lines: Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, and now Carnival. My most recent trip was a seven-day sail aboard Carnival Firenze, which traveled throughout Mexico. This was my first time on Carnival, and I somehow managed to get a private tour to areas of the ship that even the most elite VIP passengers will never, ever see. Here are some things I learned along the way.

1. First of all, yes, most cruise ships have both a jail and a morgue on board. These were the only areas of the ship where I wasn't allowed to visit (trust me, I asked multiple times) because they're strictly off limits unless you find them the old-fashioned way...by getting arrested or dying. I didn't want to take those chances, but I did find out that shorter cruises tend to see a LOT more action in the jails (aka "the brig"). Guests typically treat shorter sailings as more of a party by taking advantage of unlimited drink packages, and more alcohol = more fights on board, so needing a jail totally makes sense.

In terms of the morgues, those are usually located on one of the ship's lowest decks. Think of these as giant refrigerators that, depending on the ship's size, can house anywhere from a couple to nearly a dozen bodies. The majority of these deaths are obviously of natural causes – for reference, as of 2018, fewer than  25%  of global passengers were under the age of 30 – but the average age of a cruise ship passenger is getting younger and younger every year now.

2. The higher you are on a ship, the more movement you'll feel, so if you're someone who tends to get motion sickness then you should definitely book your room on the lowest floor possible (just not in the morgue). I've personally never had an issue with motion sickness on a cruise, but I'll occasionally see passengers with at-sea patches behind their ears for help. Contrary to what you might think, though, you'll probably get the best night's sleep of your life on a cruise. Yes, there's a ~very~ slight rocking, but it'll feel sort of like you're a baby again who's being lulled to sleep in a cradle. Just trust me on this one.

This is a photo of what my cabin looked like. I also included a picture of my bathroom, which was a little bigger than I thought it'd be. The shower itself was a pretty decent size and left me with room to spare (if you want a point of reference, I'm 5'11" [a real 5'11", not a Tinder 5'11"]).

I was in a balcony room on Deck 6, and, again, I had no issues with motion sickness. I've also sailed on higher deck levels before (up to Deck 9) and didn't have any issues then either. In terms of where on each deck you should book your cabin (i.e. midship, aft, or forward), that doesn’t actually matter because you won’t really feel the motion differently in other spots on the same deck.

3. But I promise that you probably won't even have to worry about getting seasick. I got a private tour of the ship's control room, and I learned that they do a lottttt to combat any movement from the waves. For example, ships try to hit waves at a 45-degree angle because that's apparently the most effective way to help break them up and cut down on the extra motion. Ships also have stabilizers that can extend outwardly (picture, like, wings on an airplane), which help to keep things super, super stable.

Think of these stabilizers like fins on a fish, so they help each ship glide along the water. I spoke with the captain and some of the engineers in the control room, and they explained that the stabilizers require extra fuel and also decrease the speed of the ship, so they tend to not use them unless the water is pretty rocky.

4. Before you book a cruise, you should know that they're sort of like buying a car: you can negotiate! Basically, the price you see online should almost never be the price you pay (though they often offer great discounts that you should absolutely check out!). Instead, it's best to call and book your trip with an actual person (i.e. someone who works for the cruise line, a travel agent, etc.). For example, travel agents are usually free, and they can get you a ton of bonus perks and huge discounts on rooms for a fraction of the original price.

A lot of cruise lines occasionally offer "buy one, get one" discounts, as well as a ton of other sales around specific holidays. There are also a bunch of sites where you can book discounted sailings to fill the leftover rooms that haven't sold, so just do a little research. Also, places like BJ's and Sam's Club offer trip discounts if you have a membership card to their stores, so take advantage! I booked a previous cruise through one of them a few years back and got a massive discount for my room, onboard credit, and free gratuities. It pays to save!

5. And if you ever want a "free" cruise then you should definitely hit up the casinos on board. It's super common to get extra perks on future sailings (like free Wi-Fi, drink packages, or even entire trips altogether) if you're someone who gambles a lot. Basically, each bet is tied to your personal cruise card (i.e. your room key) every time you play the slots or put money down at a table game. Your total winnings are tracked on that card, and you'll earn points based on the amount you spend. The more you gamble, the more likely you are to get offered those extra perks.

I'm always mesmerized by cruise casinos because they literally created their own mini Las Vegas on board. Like, there are pit bosses and thousands of tiny security cameras and everything else that a real casino would have. The only downside is that these casinos are obviously much smaller than what you'd find in Vegas, so they probably won't have every table game you're looking for. Yes, they have roulette (my favorite) and craps and half a dozen variations of poker, but I still haven't found a pai gow table on board. Maybe next time!

6. The cool thing about cruises – especially for people who are ages 18 through 20 – is that they can sort of make their own laws while at sea. This is known as Maritime Law. For example, gambling at the casino is only allowed once the ship is at least 12 miles from land, but that also means they can lower the age limit from 21 to 18 while in international waters. The legal drinking age on most cruise ships is also 18, not 21.

There were actually two separate casinos on my recent Carnival ship. The larger area allowed smoking and had hundreds of slot machines, a ton of table games, and "adult" claw machines that replaced stuffed animals for huge wads of cash. The other casino, though, was the designated non-smoking area, and even though it was much smaller it still got the job done.

I'm still surprised that people are allowed to smoke in the main casino (there was also a cigar room on board but on a different deck), but, hey, I guess that's Vegas, baby.

7. There are themed cruises for pretty much anything you could ever imagine – for example, Royal Caribbean offers an immersive Star Trek cruise , and Norwegian is even offering a 2,300-person nude cruise next year – but on "regular" cruises there are certain SFW guidelines that guests (and staff!) need to adhere to. For instance, it's forbidden for staff to hook up with guests on board. Doing so would result in a pretty quick termination of their employment contract. Also, there are thousandsssss of security cameras on board, so, like, good luck trying to get away with it.

Years ago I befriended one of the gym trainers on a cruise, and he revealed that he actually managed to hook up with a guest on board. Because there are so many security cameras, it would have been impossible for either of them to visit the other person's cabin without getting caught, so he told me they hooked up in a random towel closet. I guess this is why a lot of cruise ship employees end up dating each other instead of the guests, because it's way less risky and a lot more convenient.

8. Speaking of hooking up on board, there was so much "swinging" happening between couples that a lot of cruise lines had to create training programs for the staff. Basically, decorating cabin doors is a pretty common thing for elite cruisers (as pictured below), and the secret symbol for swingers is an upside-down pineapple. As a result, a lot of couples would decorate their doors with upside-down pineapples to let other guests know that they're open for fun. According to the high-up staff member I talked to, employees on their previous ship were instructed to report any pineapple decorations found on board.

That staff member also told me that this whole issue started because some couples would leave their cabin doors ajar as an invitation for other swingers. However, the housekeeping staff (who are truly, truly incredible!) unknowingly entered while the couples were ~doing the deed~. Employees on cruises typically come from all over the world (on my Carnival ship, they had staff from over 100 different nations), which means they also have certain religious backgrounds. Spotting and removing these pineapple decorations was done in an effort to protect the staff and their religious beliefs.

9. You have to remember that these ships are basically floating cities, so they have everything you could ever want. Like, I've been on ships with a freaking ice skating rink before, and my recent Carnival sailing had an 18-hole mini golf course on the top deck. Also, itineraries are left outside each guest's stateroom every morning, and they list alllll the activities you can do (or not do!) that day. Want to try your luck at bingo? Have at it. Always wanted to go to an art auction? They've got those too. Want to prove your sports, movie, history, Harry Potter , Friends , or just general knowledge at dozens of trivia events? Be their guest! I promise that you'll never be bored on a cruise.

Cruises even have LGBTQ+ mixers, silent disco parties, wine tastings, and cooking classes. There are also discreet meetings for those who are sober or in recovery. For example, Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are labeled as "Friends of Bill" events on each ship's itinerary (this is a nod to Bill Wilson, who co-founded AA).

10. Keep in mind that items on cruise ships are definitely more expensive than what you'd normally pay on land. The spa and salon on my last sailing, for example, charged $175 for a 75-minute Swedish massage and $99 for a "red carpet blowout." If that's somehow in your budget then have at it, but if you want heavily discounted prices then you should book those treatments on days when the ship is at port – this is when most passengers will be off the vessel, so a lot of cruise lines offer discounted treatments to help fill up those time slots and prevent people from hitting up the spas on land. Again, though, you can typically negotiate for certain spa perks when booking!

Every cruise I've been on has had a full-fledged shopping mall on board. There are dozens of stores that sell everything from designer goods to any type of candy or snack you could want. Again, these prices are pretty steep, so if you forget to bring sunscreen then it's probably best to just wait until you get to the next port. Even so, there are definitely ways to save money while cruising! 

11. The more you cruise with a specific line, the more perks you'll get (like free room upgrades, priority access, unlimited internet, and on-board casino credit). These loyalty programs are based on the number of days you sail with each line, so, for example, everyone on their first Carnival cruise is in the Blue tier, then they reach Red status on their second sailing, and once they hit 25 days on board they'll reach the Gold tier. Platinum is achieved after 75 total days of sailing, and Diamond status is for people who've sailed for at least 200 days. I met so many Diamond members that my jaw kind of dropped – like, these people LOVE cruises and go on several a year. It isn't just a vacation for them; it's a full-on hobby.

While doing some research, I also found out that Royal Caribbean even has a "Pinnacle Club" for people who've sailed for over 700 days on their ships, which, holy crap??? So if you're prepared to spend the equivalent of two years on a ship (which kind of sounds like a dream to me, to be honest), then get ready for the ultimate form of perks and luxury.

12. Another way to save money is by booking your shore excursions through third-party vendors. Booking through the ship is definitely the most expensive route, but it's also the safest because you'll never have to worry about the ship leaving without you. Ships have strict docking schedules to follow on port days, so they ~will~ leave without you if you aren't back in time. Otherwise, you're in charge of making it to the next port of call on your own, so good luck. If you have a short port day and are only docked for a few hours then I'd suggest booking through the ship so you don't risk getting left behind.

Cruise lines display all excursion reviews from past passengers on their site, so this can be such a helpful resource to prevent you from booking something that sounds good on paper but is underwhelming in reality (been there, done that). I typically book excursions through vendors who are waiting outside as soon as everyone gets off the ship, but I do a lot of research ahead of time and will often find things to do that aren't even offered by the cruise.

You obviously don't have to go on any excursions at all either. There have been plenty of times when I've simply explored on my own by walking around, grabbing a bite from a local spot, or relaxing at the beach. You also don't even have to leave the ship if you don't want to. In fact, port days are incredible for peak relaxation on board because it's way more quiet, and you'll never struggle to find an open lounger by the pool. Free is my favorite number, so remember that there will always be plenty to do no matter your budget.

13. You should know that there are some banned items you simply can't bring on a cruise. Before boarding, you'll quickly go through security, sort of like a relaxed version of TSA at the airport. The whole process typically only takes a few minutes. Depending on the cruise line, you're usually allowed to bring up to 12 cans of non-alcoholic beverages (my friend brought a six-pack of ginger ale in case she felt seasick, and those made it through just fine. I also saw a bunch of Diet Coke-obsessed people with whole cases, and those made it through too). Candles, hot plates, and the obvious knives, guns, fireworks, etc. are all banned as well.

Bottled water isn't typically allowed through security when checking in, but you can absolutely buy it on board. More importantly, though, there will be plenty of free fill-up stations for your water bottle throughout the ship, so that's an easy fix. I can't stress enough how necessary having a water bottle is, so make sure you bring one (both for your regular onboard living but also for when you leave the ship on port days).

14. Also, don't even try to sneak alcohol on board because you'll definitely get caught. Each ship is different, but for the most part you're only allowed one unopened bottle of wine or champagne in your carry-on. If you buy spirits while at port then you'll have to check them when you get back on the ship, and they'll be returned when you disembark. After all, most cruises only become profitable after adding up their total alcohol sales and casino winnings (I guess it helps that Carnival's 27 ships, for example, sell over 14,000 margaritas each day). For reference, a standard cocktail on my last trip was about $13, and the unlimited drink packages were about $60 a day.

Depending on the cruise line, these unlimited drink packages can range from $55 to over $100 each day. These include specialty coffees, soda, beer, wine, cocktails, and the works. Remember, some people treat cruises like parties (my last sailing had FIVE different types of espresso martinis at the bars, so, like, I sort of don't blame them), and they certainly try to get the most bang for their buck. I've done the math, and you need to have at least five specialty drinks per day to make the unlimited package "worth it."

Non-alcoholic drink packages also exist, like a $9.50-a-day pass that'll get you unlimited sodas. But there are free drinks on board, whether you're at the buffet or sit-down dining, like tap water, brewed coffee, hot teas, hot chocolate, lemonade, iced tea, fruit juices (fresh-pressed ones will cost extra), and milk.

15. Cruise ships obviously make tons (and I mean that literally, not figuratively) of food every single sailing. After all, the average ship holds about 3,000 guests and 1,000 crew members. An employee who I spoke with said Carnival serves about 30,000 burgers every single day, and they'll make over 1.3 million pounds of French fries each year. There are free sit-down restaurants and buffets on board, but there are also specialty dining options that guests can pay for, like hibachi and steak houses. My family always sticks with the free dining options, and I think non-cruisers will be shocked by how good the food actually is, but the best part is that you can order several appetizers, entrées, and desserts per person, so, like, you'll never leave hungry.

All of that food used to mean there's a lot of food waste, but that's not really the case anymore. In fact, a lot of ships are working on how to become more and more sustainable and environmentally friendly. For example, rather than dumping food waste in the water, I saw on my private tour that Carnival has a "food digester" room. Basically, it's a massive machine filled with bacteria that'll break down all the food scraps, just like how your own body breaks down food. Yes, it smelled just as bad as you probably think it would.

Similarly, some ships are even using artificial intelligence to make their sailings more environmentally friendly. While in the control room, one of the engineers told me about how their ship is using new AI that basically studies each sailing so it can recommend new ways to make future voyages as efficient as possible, like by creating energy-saving routes and so on.

16. If you're worried about potentially having bad weather on your cruise then, well, think again. Yes, there's obviously a lot to do inside, but a lot of ships also have retractable roofs on their top decks. So, if it's ever too cold, rainy, or windy then they can usually cover the entire lido deck (i.e. where most of the pools, jacuzzis, and lounge chairs are), which means you can relax "outside" even in the terrible weather. A lot of ships also offer indoor pools and adults-only sections, so, like, you'll totally be set no matter what.

My recent cruise had a regular pool and jacuzzi setup on the lido deck, but there was also another section at the back of the ship with one more pool and two more jacuzzis. There was even a "Serenity" section at the top deck, which served as an "adults-only retreat," meaning passengers younger than 18 weren't allowed. That area unfortunately filled up super fast on sailing days, so if you ever go on a ship with one I'd definitely recommend getting there early.

A lot of ships also offer private areas and decks that are exclusive to only those who book certain rooms. This secluded area was much quieter, super luxurious, and actually felt like I was on a totally different ship. If you're booking a cruise and see that there's an exclusive area, you should absolutely ask about how to get access ahead of time.

17. It's tradition for every ship to have a celebrity godmother or godfather who christens the boat before the inaugural launch, and those celebs are typically rewarded with free cruises for life (!) on that specific vessel. For example, Oprah Winfrey is the godmother of a Holland America ship, and even Audrey Hepburn was the godmother of a Princess ship. Carnival only has two godfathers, and they're fittingly both for their Italian-themed cruises: Jay Leno and now Jonathan Bennett. Christening the ship used to entail smashing a bottle of champagne against its hull, but the night before my cruise I got to watch Jonathan Bennett pour a bottle of champagne over the ship's bell to toast its safe travels instead.

Judi Dench is also the godmother of a ship, and it famously took her three different attempts to break the bottle of champagne against its hull, which then sprayed all over her. That was in 2002, so I think switching to this new christening method with the ship's bell is definitely less messy.

18. One of the most unique parts about cruising is that you'll typically find a cool towel animal waiting for you after returning to your cabin every night. The housekeeping staff are all trained in towel folding, so after dinner you'll have a new animal sitting on your bed or, in my case, hanging from the ceiling. A lot of ships even host towel-folding classes during sailings so guests can learn how to make the animals themselves, and how-to books are also available in the bookstore. I found out that Carnival's housekeeping team makes about 15 million towel animals every single year, which, holy crap.

One morning while on my way to the gym, I walked through the lido deck and saw hundreds of towel animals sitting on every single lounge chair outside. There were monkeys and elephants and dogs, but the most impressive towel animal that I saw was an octopus. I still have no idea how they managed to pull this off, and I'm genuinely so impressed.

19. And finally, the most important thing you should know about cruises is that there are several self-serve ice cream machines on board, and they're all completely free (and unlike McDonald's, these machines are always working!). If you're like me and deserve a sweet treat after dinner – or, let's face it, after or even before breakfast – then you understand how big this is. After all, you're on vacation, so you should be eating as much ice cream and frozen yogurt as you can get your hands on.

I worked at Dairy Queen for a few summers as a teen and genuinely loved it there, so having the ability to serve myself a cone whenever I wanted made me feel at home. And if you're more of a gelato person then I totally understand! Luckily for you, cruises have got you covered. My ship had a freaking gelato spot on board, and they expect to serve about 750,000 scoops this year, but I have a feeling half of them were because of me.

That's it! If you have any other cruise travel tips that have worked for you, please feel free to share them in the comments. Thanks!

Note: BuzzFeed was granted this cruise aboard Carnival Firenze for free, though we were under no obligation to provide a positive review.

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21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

Cruising is easy. Or so cruisers will tell you.

For starters, you only have to unpack once, even as you travel from place to place. You also don't have to go hunting for a restaurant every night. There usually are a bunch just steps away from your cabin with tables waiting for you. You'll also have no trouble finding entertainment.

But even in its simplicity, cruising still can be daunting for a first-timer. What should you bring? What should you plan on doing in ports? What is the best way to book?

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

As the head of The Points Guy's cruise content team , I get these sorts of questions all the time.

This brings me to the tips below. If you've read this far, you are likely a first-time cruiser looking for advice for an upcoming trip, and that's exactly what this story is meant to offer. It contains my list of 21 ways to make your first sailing go more smoothly.

It's a list drawn not just from my own experience over 20-plus years of cruising but also the observations of more than 100 cruising fans who shared their tips with TPG in a lively conversation on the topic at the TPG Lounge on Facebook. (If you're not a member yet, we highly encourage you to join.)

Arrive at your departure port a day ahead of schedule

If you only follow one piece of advice in this story, it should be this one. It is the only way to ensure you won't miss your ship — something that happens to cruisers more often than you would think.

Many cruises depart in the afternoon, so it might seem just fine to fly or drive to a port on the morning of departure. But all it takes is a moderate flight delay or a pile-up on the highway to upset those plans. If you're delayed in your arrival at the port, the ship will not wait for you.

If you're traveling overseas for a cruise, we recommend traveling to the port two or even three days in advance. This isn't just so you don't miss the ship. It's also so you have some time to recover from jet lag. European cruises, in particular, can be port-intensive, with lots of touring, so you want to be refreshed and ready to hit the ground running right after the cruise begins.

Related: What happens if you miss your cruise ship

Pack your bathing suit in your carry-on

When you first arrive at a ship, before you even get on board, you'll likely be greeted by porters who will whisk away your luggage. It will be delivered to your room later in the day. This is a great convenience, as there's no need to haul your bags through the entire check-in progress. But it also means you might not have access to your luggage for many hours on your first day on board.

Be sure to pack anything you think you might need for these first hours of your cruise in your carry-on bag. This means things like medication, for sure, and a phone charger, but also a bathing suit, hat, sunscreen and other items that will let you head straight to the pool deck to start the fun.

Related: Use this packing list for your next cruise

Don't overpack

Use this strategy when packing for a cruise: Throw all the clothes you think you'll need on a cruise in a pile, and then take away half of them. You won't need them. Trust us.

Most cruising these days is casual, and you really only need a few outfits to rotate through a voyage. If things get dirty, it's no problem. Many ships have launderettes on cabin decks where you can run a load or two of laundry every few days. If not, you can send laundry out to be cleaned on board. It'll usually come back in a day or two.

The extra cost of doing a few loads of laundry on a ship is a small price to pay for the freedom of not having to lug a giant suitcase around as you travel to and from your ship. Plus, you'll want to save room in your suitcase for all the little treasures you're going to find along the way.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry service

Bring your own drinks on board

Many first-time cruisers assume they can't bring their own drinks on board a ship. But many lines will allow this, usually with some limits. It's one way to save money when cruising, as drink prices on ships can be high.

Among the lines that will allow you to be your own bartender is Disney Cruise Line . Adults can bring up to two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne or six beers onto Disney ships at the start of a cruise and at every port of call. Note that these beverages must be packed in carry-on bags. At Royal Caribbean , the bring-your-own allowance is two bottles of wine or Champagne per cabin at boarding, plus up to a dozen standard cans, bottles or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks.

One caveat: Many lines levy a "corkage fee" if you want to bring your wine into an onboard restaurant. Be sure to read the rules for your line before you bring any drinks on board.

Related: Are drinks packages on cruise ships worth it? A line-by-line guide

Bring extra toiletries

Yes, you'll be able to find sunscreen, aspirin and Band-Aids on a cruise ship. But it'll cost you. Cruise lines know you're a captive audience and price their shipboard stores accordingly.

I have a small "go bag" of over-the-counter medicines that I throw into my suitcase for every cruise that contains everything from cold medicine to seasickness pills. I rarely use any of it. But I also never get hit with a crazy toiletries charge.

While we're on the topic of sundries, don't forget extra batteries for your camera if you are bringing one.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

Bring these six other things, too

In addition to extra toiletries, cruising regulars often bring Clorox wipes or something similar to wipe down surfaces in their cabin upon arrival (and to bring along on shore excursions). I admit, I've never done this, though I know I should — if only to wipe off the remote control for the cabin TV.

Many cruisers also won't head to a ship without room freshener, a foldable shoe rack (which they hang in the cabin bathroom to store toiletries), a highlighter (to highlight activities on the daily planner) and a lanyard (to hold their cabin key card). I am, of course, too cool to ever put a key card lanyard around my neck, which means I lose my card once or twice on every trip. They always give me a new one at the front desk. My cruise team colleague Ashley Kosciolek also escews landyard-wearing on ships, but that didn't stop her from writing this wonderful guide to the coolest cruise lanyards around .

Some cruisers also swear by bringing magnets to ships to affix dinner invitations, excursion tickets and other important papers to their cabin walls. Walls on ships often are made with metal (even if they look like wood, thanks to faux wood veneers) and will hold a magnet. Some cruisers even bring magnets with hooks so they can hang up clothes and other items on their walls.

Related: 20 things you should bring on every cruise — including a roll of duct tape

Skip the buffet on your first day on board

There's nothing more jammed than a cruise ship buffet on embarkation day. Everybody boarding heads straight up to it. To avoid the first-day buffet crowds, head to whatever secondary dining option is available. Sometimes, a ship will open one of its table-served eateries for lunch on embarkation day. It'll likely be much less crowded than the buffet.

Research ports in advance

There are some types of vacations — a beach trip, for instance — where you don't have to do much advance research. You just sort of show up. Most cruises aren't this way — at least if you want to get the most out of them. At the heart of most cruises are port calls that, in many cases, are very short — often just a few hours. You want to have a plan for what to do in these ports or you'll miss out on a big part of the cruising experience.

Once you know what ports you'll be visiting, research them as much as you can at travel sites such as The Points Guy. Here at TPG, we're starting to build out a series of home port and destination port guides for everywhere from PortMiami to Bora Bora .

Related: The ultimate guide to Caribbean cruising

Join a Facebook group for your line

Another great place to get ideas for what to do in ports and on ships — and what to bring on a cruise, for that matter — are the many private Facebook groups dedicated to particular lines. I belong to a number of them, including the Royal Caribbean Cruises group, the COPs (Cruisers Opinion Page) group and the Holland America Line Fans group. You'll find thousands of cruise fans at these pages who often are more than willing to answer questions about their favorite line, its ships, its itineraries and the destinations on the itineraries. I've met some wonderful people in these groups, some of whom have become my longtime friends on Facebook.

Sign up for private tours

Booking a shore excursion directly through your cruise line is easy. You just check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it's all arranged. But booking tours through your line isn't the only option, and it's not always the best option. In many cases, you can save a lot of money — and get a better touring experience — by booking shore excursions through independent tour operators in ports or a tour booking service such as Viator or ToursbyLocals .

Often, independent tours will be much more intimate than the tours offered directly through cruise lines. They might go to the same sites but in a small van instead of a big motorcoach. You might have just six or eight other people on a tour with you instead of nearly 40. If your group is big enough, you might even be able to book a private tour with an independent tour operator.

Related: The ultimate TPG guide to shore excursions

Independent tours also can take you to places that the cruise line-organized tours don't. Plus, they often come with excellent service. ToursByLocals has staff on hand around-the-clock to respond to questions, and — for those worried about missing your ship — they offer a return-to-ship guarantee with every tour.

Sign up for activities in advance or soon after boarding

Some lines will let you sign up for shows, tours and other activities (including meals at specialty restaurants) in advance of sailing using online portals. If you want to be sure that you get a seat for a specific show on a specific night, or a specific tour or restaurant reservation time, it's a good idea to do this. It's not uncommon with some ships to find that some shows, tours and restaurant reservation times book up in advance.

If you don't sign up for activities in advance, a backup strategy is to do so just after you board a vessel. That said, whether you need to race to sign up for activities at the start of a voyage depends a lot on which ship you are on. I am more careful about signing up for a lot of things in advance when I am sailing on a giant ship such as Royal Caribbean's record-breaking Wonder of the Seas where there are thousands of other passengers competing for the choicest reservations.

Related: 12 giant ships that are the best for fun

Don't feel like you have to do it all

While we're on the topic of signing up for activities, note that it's OK if you miss a few things. You don't have to do it all. In fact, you should force yourself to try to not do it all. Remember, you're on vacation. Relax. Take some downtime. Sit on your balcony, if you have one, and just stare out at the ocean for a couple of hours. You won't regret it.

Always carry the ship's contact information with you

When going ashore, always bring the ship's contact information with you. Those details are usually printed in the newsletter that's delivered to your cabin each night. If something goes wrong when you're away from the ship, you'll want to get in contact with the cruise line right away.

Keep your phone in airplane mode

Some of the biggest cruise ship horror stories you'll find on the internet are tales of cruising newbies who racked up thousands of dollars in cellphone charges while on ships. This can happen when you leave your phone turned on and, say, watch videos on the internet. Many phone plans — even international plans — do not include talking, texting and data on cruise ships, and you'll pay exorbitant roaming rates for such services that will show up weeks later on your phone bill.

There are ways to make calls and access the internet from ships without spending a boatload of money. You can buy a Wi-Fi package, for instance, that will let you make FaceTime calls and stream videos (on some ships) over Wi-Fi without using phone data.

Some phone companies have cruise-specific plans you can buy in advance of a voyage. But I personally never go that route. I keep it simple. I just put my phone in airplane mode the moment I step on board a ship and never switch it back on. I then turn on the phone's Wi-Fi, buy a Wi-Fi package and do all my calling, texting and internet surfing over Wi-Fi. That way, there's no way that I can be surprised by an unexpected charge.

Download the cruise app

A growing number of lines now have apps that you can download to your smartphone in advance of sailing. The apps vary in what they offer, but many will show you a daily list of activities and all of the things that you have reserved. Many also will let you make restaurant reservations and book shore excursions and other activities, and a few will let you order drinks and other items to wherever you happen to be standing. That's pretty cool, right? The best part: The apps will work on board even if you don't pay for a Wi-Fi package.

Related: This cruise app lets you order pizza anywhere on board

Use a travel agent to book

Given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you arrange things. A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. The agent also can help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

In addition, travel agents often can you extra onboard credit and other perks that you might not be able to get by booking directly with a line.

Related: Why you should always use a travel agent to book a cruise

Consider travel insurance

It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising — or any sort of travel. We hate to even bring it up, but you might need to cancel your cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness. Or, maybe you'll fall ill during the cruise and need emergency medical attention. Maybe your flight to your ship gets canceled and you miss the vessel's departure. These sorts of things can happen to cruisers, and they're all the sort of situations where you might benefit from having travel insurance. Here's a comparison of the top travel insurance providers and information about Cancel for Any Reason add-ons .

Related: The TPG guide to travel insurance for cruises

Don't book a cabin near an elevator

Not every cabin on a ship is created equal. When choosing a room on your first cruise, you might want to stay away from those near elevators and just above nightclubs and other late-night venues. They can sometimes be noisy. Cabins just below the pool deck and near the anchor also can be problematic as well as cabins near casinos.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

Use a points card for onboard spending

You saw this one coming, no? Given TPG's origins as a points and miles website , we'd be remiss if we didn't remind you to maximize your credit card points while making purchases on ships. The way to do this is to tie a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases to your onboard account. This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on dining.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Don't tip twice for drinks and spa treatments

Most cruise ships now automatically add a gratuity to bar bills, often in the amount of 18% to 20% of the total. Such automatic gratuities also are becoming more common in ship spas. But many first-time cruisers don't know this and write in a hefty tip at the "additional tip" line on bills at cruise ship bars and spas. Be sure to ask if a gratuity already has been included before adding another 15% or 20% to the total. Otherwise, you may end up tipping twice.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on a cruise ship

Use points to get to your cruise

Using points and miles to pay for a cruise doesn't always make sense , as it often requires a huge number of them to secure a cabin. But that doesn't mean you can't save big time by booking your flights to and from a ship using points and miles .

You'll find plenty of stories here at The Points Guy about how to, say, pay the equivalent of $1,330 in points for a flight that cost $16,000 , or book a $27,000 around-the-world trip for just $168 in out-of-pocket costs . Scroll around a little, and you may never pay cash for a flight to a cruise ship again.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Small Ship Adventure Cruising

• Ways to travel

Forget shuffleboard and cabaret—adventure cruising is all about the destination.

Cruising is an adventure in itself, but the beauty of travelling on a small ship with less than 50 passengers means the real fun begins when we pull into port or drop anchor at an island. It means you'll get to know the locals, rather than outnumber them. You'll still be looked after by your crew and get to relax on the deck, but you'll also get to kayak along the rivers of  Krka National Park , explore Montenegro ’s surprising fjordic landscapes, or snorkel with giant  Galapagos tortoises . It's about going where the big ships can't so you can swim in hidden coves, buy fish at local markets to barbeque for dinner, and wander through little Croatian laneways with your leader. This is cruising—Intrepid style. 

Small ship cruises by region

Galapagos Islands

Our small ship Adventure Cruising tours

Classic galapagos: central eastern islands (grand queen beatriz), 10 days from 5634.

Travel to the Galapagos Islands and sail around the central eastern islands, witnessing...

Classic Galapagos: Central Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

10 days from 5879.

Sail the aquamarine waters of the Galapagos’s central southern islands taking in...

Croatian Coastal Cruising: Dubrovnik to Split (Aurora)

8 days from 2444.

Join a small ship cruising adventure to Croatia. Voyage along the Dalmatian coast,...

Ultimate Galapagos: Central Islands (Grand Daphne)

10 days from 6627.

Spend 10 unforgettable days on board the Grand Daphne, discovering the central islands...

Croatian Coastal Cruising - Split to Dubrovnik (Aurora)

Take a small-ship cruising adventure in Croatia from Split to Dubrovnik. Voyage along...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)

10 days from 7875.

Take an active 10-day adventure cruise though the Galapagos Islands, from Isla Santa...

Classic Galapagos: Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

10 days from 5514.

Travel to the Galapagos Islands from Quito and embark on a sailing adventure around...

Classic Galapagos: South Eastern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Explore the best of the otherworldly Galapagos Islands on this 10-day tour that takes...

Treasures of Galapagos: Western & Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

13 days from 7432.

Embark on an immersive Adventure Cruise through the Galapagos Islands and experience...

Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne)

7 days from 5040.

Discover the treasures of the northern Galapagos Islands on this cruise, including Isla...

Galapagos Explorer: Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

7 days from 3543.

Take to the water and explore the beautiful Galapagos Islands. See huge populations of...

Galapagos Explorer: Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

7 days from 2819.

Explore the beautiful Galapagos Islands. See huge populations of animals and experience...

Galapagos Encounter: Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

6 days from 2819.

Explore the Islands of the Galapagos on this startling adventure that highlights the...

Galapagos Encounter: Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Explore the central islands of the Galapagos on this startling adventure that...

Grand Galapagos (Grand Queen Beatriz)

17 days from 10480.

This Galapagos adventure cruise is the perfect way to explore the islands of Isabella,...

Galapagos Voyager: Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

14 days from 8485.

Travel to Ecuador and join a 13-day Intrepid journey in the Galapagos’. Visit Isla...

Galapagos In Focus (Grand Queen Bea)

8 days from 4930.

Hop aboard the M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz for a wildlife-filled 8-day adventure around the...

Galapagos at a Glance: Southern Islands (Grand Daphne)

6 days from 4045.

See the best of the Galapagos Islands on this action-packed adventure cruise, touring...

Absolute Galapagos (Grand Daphne)

17 days from 14305.

Discover the bizarre and the beautiful on this 17-day cruising tour of the Galapagos...

Pure Galapagos (Grand Daphne)

8 days from 5713.

Come face-to-face with the extraordinary central islands of the Galapagos on an 8-day...

Why choose Intrepid

Small ships, small groups

With fewer than 36 passengers on every ship, our groups are the perfect size for really getting to know your fellow travellers. Smaller groups mean more personalised service, like one-on-one chats with your leader about history, culture and food, or your favourite beer handed to you by the bar manager at the end of the day.

Specialised service

We’re right there with you to ensure your adventure is memorable for all the right reasons. Our expert local leaders facilitate incredible land experiences, while the ship’s friendly crew make sure you have everything you need – from a room that’s sparkling clean to a glass of sparkling wine – to enjoy your time on board.

Dining with a local twist

Whether it’s a dining alfresco on the deck at sunset, enjoying the catch-of-the day cooked up by your onboard chef or sitting down for a gourmet breakfast every morning, our culinary experiences are designed to complement your journey and help you create memories you’ll savour forever – both on and off the boat.

Cruise the seas less travelled

Our small ships give you access to those out-of-the-way spots the big ships can’t reach. We’ll show you the guidebook favourites from a new perspective, then cruise away from the crowds so you can stroll through seaside villages, swim in hidden coves, and get a real taste of what life is like for the locals.  

A floating boutique hotel

Our ships combine all the comforts and personality of a boutique hotel with the freedom of the open water. Relax in your well-appointed cabin and wake to a different outlook each morning. Enjoy panoramic views from the sun deck, spend time in comfortable lounges and dining rooms, or dine al fresco under the stars.

Highlights of small ship Adventure Cruising

Dig into Croatia’s coast

There’s a reason Croatia ’s been crowned the darling of Europe! Cruise through the pristine waters of the Adriatic and taste the best of the country’s bountiful coastline. Visit rolling vineyards for wine tastings, dine on barbecue dinners on the deck of your ship, sample locally produced honey on a Croatian farm and stroll through fragrant fields of lavender. Detour into Bosnia and Herzegovina where you’ll pop into a local coffee shop to see how Bosnian coffee is made and try some yourself.

Go wild in the Galapagos

When we say go wild, we really mean it. Located just off Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a natural playground for wildlife lovers with over 9000 species to discover. Where else can you chill on the beach with a seal or kayak alongside a group of inquisitive penguins? Here, you'll snorkel in shallow coves teeming with green turtles, golden cow-nose rays and Galapagos sharks. Whether you cruise around the central, southern or western islands, you'll be well placed to have unforgettable wildlife encounters on and off the water.

Meet the fleet

Whether it’s cruising along in a motor sailer or a state-of-the-art mega-yacht, our cruising vessels are built for style, comfort and adventure. Each ship features 4-star accommodation with well-appointed interiors including spacious cabins and sundecks.

Grand Queen Beatriz

Grand Daphne

View our full range of ships

Private departures

Looking to charter your very own private coastal cruise, or perhaps an island-hopping adventure in  Greece  with just you and your friends? We can make it happen. Just get in touch and tell us what you’d like to do.

Enquire with our Tailor-Made travel team

Adventure Cruising FAQs

What type of ship will i be on.

Our Adventure Cruising trips operate on a Motor Yacht that carries between 16-36 passengers, and the primary propulsion method is motorised. The decor varies between ships with some contemporary and some more traditional in their styling.

View all ships

What are the cabins like? Why are they different prices?

All cabins are air-conditioned and our ship generators provide an electric current of 220v. Cabins are equipped with European type plugs so please remember to bring an adaptor if necessary.

Please be aware that cabins are compact in size, with wardrobe and storage space also compact. All cabins on all ships have private bathrooms with hairdryers and come with some toiletries such as shampoo and shower gel. A safe and minibar (containing water) are in every cabin. Pricing depends on the cabin type - similar to a hotel, some cabins offer superior views, larger windows/portholes and larger or additional living space. You can view cabin types on our ships  page.

How long will be spent between sailing and port?

As much as possible, most relocation sailing will take place at night, allowing for more time to be spent at port and exploring. The majority of itineraries have at least one port stop or swim stop every day. In places of particular interest the ship will moor all day, allowing additional time for shore excursions and off-ship activities. It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the trip itinerary in order to be aware of what time is scheduled at port and what excursions are on offer. However, please be aware that weather conditions may prompt a change to published itineraries.

How much time will I have on shore at each stop?

The amount of time you spend ashore at each stop will vary depending on the stop and each individual itinerary. It is not always possible to give accurate arrival and departure times from each port. Travelling on a small ship means we are more affected by changes to the winds and tides. If conditions are in our favour we may make excellent time and arrive in port earlier than expected. But if conditions are against us, it may take longer to reach our next stop. One of the charms of small ship cruising is letting nature be part of your journey.

How accessible are the ships?

It’s important to be aware that none of the ships have lifts, and moving between decks will involve climbing fairly steep stairways. To disembark the ship in port, you will need to walk down a narrow gangway lowered to the dock. It’s important to be aware that none of the ships have lifts and moving between decks will involve climbing fairly steep stairways. To disembark the ship in port, you will need to walk down a narrow gangway lowered to the dock. On our Croatian cruises, you will usually dock at all ports, and tenders (small dinghies) are rarely used. On our Galapagos cruises, we use zodiacs to transport you between the boat and land. You will need to be comfortable getting in and out of the zodiacs to enjoy all the included activities throughout the itinerary. Our crew are always at hand to assist you.

Will I get seasick?

How often the ship sails in open waters depends on the itinerary. The itineraries that sail along the coast should experience sheltered conditions on most days, but those that sail between islands will cross open waters and may sail through heavier seas. Unless you are certain that you’re impervious to seasickness, it is necessary to come prepared with precautionary medication or other methods of combatting seasickness. Please be aware that there are no doctors aboard the ships.

Who will I be travelling with?

Our Adventure Cruises in the Galapagos have a maximum of 16 passengers and Croatia cruises have a maximum of 36 passengers.

What if I’m travelling solo?

On all our Intrepid itineraries, if you’re travelling solo, it is possible to share a twin share cabin with another passenger of the same gender, depending on availability. If you would like your own cabin, you can choose to pay a single supplement and receive a cabin to yourself.

What language is spoken on the ship?

The language on board is English (with fluent staff).

Is the itinerary always the same?

By its nature, all travel by sea is subject to the weather, winds, and tides. Occasionally the order in which we visit destinations may need to change to accommodate weather conditions and, sometimes, other ports may be substituted. Safety is always our first priority. All ships are operated by an experienced captain and crew.

What will the weather be like?

For the comfort and pleasure of our guests, our itineraries generally follow warm rather than hot weather patterns. The world's climate being at times unpredictable, our small ships are seldom far from a sheltered bay or port.

What is the official currency on board?

On our Croatia cruises, the Euro is the official currency on board. On our Galapagos Islands cruises, USD is the official currency onboard.  There is an optional credit system for expenses on board that may be paid/settled at the end of the cruise. Credit card payment is not always accepted on board. Please refer to the essential trip information” for further information

What if I have dietary requirements?

Most dietary requirements can be catered for on all ships, except for kosher and halal. Please advise us at the time of booking and we will do all that we can.

Are alcoholic drinks available on board?

Alcoholic drinks are available on all ships and are reasonably priced. For example, EUR5 for the cocktail of the day or EUR3.50 for a glass of wine. The bar runs on a chit system where you sign for drinks as you purchase them, with the amount added to your on-board account. This account is settled at the end of the voyage.

Is there a dress code on board?

Dress aboard the boat is very casual – it is a holiday after all. However, you may wish to bring a smarter outfit, such as a sundress or a shirt with a collar, for the final night’s Captain’s Dinner or if you plan to eat off the ship in port.

Is there Internet available on board?

Wifi is available on our ships at an additional cost. Please note, it may be unavailable in more remote locations or when sailing.

Can I combine an Adventure Cruise with another land tour?

Yes definitely, and it's a popular option for many. While dates might not always align perfectly, there are plenty of options like day tours  to bridge the time between the tours. Contact us or your local travel agent to find out more.

Are the Adventure Cruises guaranteed departures?

If you've found a tour you like, we can request space and confirm availability within 2-4 days.  Once availability is confirmed, a deposit is required within 7 days.  We suggest not booking other things like flights until availability is confirmed.

Once the space is confirmed by our local team and your deposit has been paid, your tour is guaranteed to depart - meaning you can book your airfares and additional accommodation with confidence. Please note that like all of our tours, this is subject to our regular booking conditions.

Why are the cabins different prices?

Pricing depends on the cabin type. Similar to how hotel room pricing works, some cabins offer superior views, larger windows/portholes and larger or additional living space. You can view cabin types on our ships  page. Contact us  to find out more

Are flights included?

While International flights aren't included in the tour cost, we can assist with booking these. Our partnerships with the major airlines mean we can get you the best price on flights for your intended travel dates. Sometimes it can be challenging organising flights. Some destinations are harder to get to than others, and we know it can be tricky trying to negotiate dates, transfers and prices. So speak to us  about how we can get you there easier.

Can you book additional accommodation, day tours and transfers?

Yes, we can generally assist with all of this when you're ready to book your trip. Contact us  to find out more.

Can I go swimming from the ship?

Of course! All ships have a swimming platform which is usually located at the back of the ship. The crew will always be present to monitor the safety of swimmers, watching either from the ship or a small zodiac safety boat. Additional towels are available during swim stops. All ships are equipped with snorkelling equipment that you are free to use. Some ships also offer kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for use at swim stops.

What is included in my cruise cost?

We include: a minimum of two meals daily, activities and land excursions (as per the itinerary), Comfortable accommodation on the boat, all port fees, services of local tour leaders, airport arrival transfer, drinking water, 24-hour coffee station with fruit and snacks, and snorkelling equipment. Some trips have kayaks and stand-up paddleboards available for use.

What is not included in my cruise cost?

We do not include: International flights, travel insurance, discretionary tips for leaders and crew, some meals, onboard purchases (such as beverages), hotel-to-port transfer (if arriving prior to the day of embarkation), airport departure transfer (unless pre-booked), any additional hotel accommodation not outlined in trip itinerary, personal expenses.

Are tips included in the price?

Tips for all crew and services are at your discretion

Where can I find the joining point/hotel details for my trip?

Your agent or sales representative will provide you with all the necessary joining point details once you have booked, along with other essential trip information. This information can also be found on the web page for your trip – scroll down past the itinerary until you see the Essential Trip Information link.

Read more about Adventure Cruising

Looking for a smaller boat.

Intrepid Sailing

Want to feel the wind in your hair? Our sailing tours use smaller catamarans or yachts rather than multi-deck cruise ships. Travellers can lend a helping hand with navigating, tacking and steering, or (if that sounds like hard work) simply stretch out on deck with a good book.

Read more about Intrepid Sailing

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This High-end Expedition Ship Has 2 Helicopters, a Submersible, and Butler Service

Here’s what it’s like to travel around the Mediterranean aboard Scenic Eclipse II, the newest high-end ship from the Australian cruise line Scenic.

The Staterooms

Bars and restaurants, shore excursions, amenities and entertainment, family-friendly offerings, accessibility.

Courtesy of Scenic

The first thing I noticed about the Scenic Eclipse II is just how sleek the dark-hulled ship looked. Think mega yacht. No, think giga-yacht. At 551 feet, this is no small ship — even if, in the world of cruise lines, the Scenic Eclipse II rates as a rather intimate vessel, with a capacity of just 228 passengers.

Operated by the Australian brand that carved out a niche with luxury expedition vessels, this “discovery yacht” cuts the same gorgeous silhouette as its sibling, Scenic Eclipse , which debuted in 2019. Both ships also have all the hardware needed to operate in the polar regions, with an expedition crew to pull off adventures in places such as Antarctica.

But Scenic Eclipse II also represents an evolution: It has been tweaked with an eye to warm-weather destinations, such as the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. Added on Deck 10 were plunge pools, sun loungers, and an indoor-outdoor Sky Bar. These features, the thinking goes, will be more in demand when the ship is in places like Southern Europe, say, where there’s less hard-core adventure and a more immersive shore-side experience.

To give it a try, I joined the Scenic Eclipse II for its christening journey in June 2023, traveling from Barcelona to Málaga, Spain, with stops along the way in the Balearic Islands. I was eager to compare the experience on this ship, in the bustling ports of Southern Europe, with the feel of the original, on which I had previously traveled to Antarctica.

The experiences were, as it turns out, starkly different. Unlike in the polar regions, where guests spend the lion’s share of their time on the ship, the Europe cruise took me to fascinating places on land: I spent most of my voyage on various city tours, visiting impressive sites like the prehistoric Talayotic villages in Menorca and the Botánico Biotecnológico, a high-tech botanical garden, in Ibiza.

One of the highlights of my particular sailing was the opportunity to chat with NASA astronaut Kathryn Sullivan, who was on board in her capacity as the ship’s godmother. She regaled us — passengers and crew — with tales of her career in space, her voyages on expedition cruises, and her descent into the Challenger Deep , the Pacific Ocean spot that’s more than 35,000 feet below sea level.

"There is one common thread of DNA that combines all these experiences: exploration and learning. That's has always been what motivates me," Sullivan said. "It's just the intense and pervasive curiosity about different places, about this planet. Who lives there? What critters live there? What's the landscape like?"

Truth be told, that same sense of adventure is what’s motivated me to hop aboard many expedition ships over the years. While this particular voyage through Spain lacked the feel of, say, an icebergs-and-penguins odyssey through Antarctica, I did appreciate being aboard a smaller ship during peak season in Europe. It was also a pleasure to return to the excellent restaurants on board — not to mention my spacious cabin — after a long day of touring on shore.

Here’s a closer look about what to expect when traveling on Scenic Eclipse II and my review of its staterooms, amenities, and more.

Scenic Eclipse II

• With just 228 passengers — and a maximum of 200 in polar regions — Scenic Eclipse II offers an intimate experience.
• Despite being small, the ship has 10 dining options, including high-end fine dining and casual spots.
• All cabins have balconies and come with the services of a butler.
• The ship has two helicopters and a submersible for heart-pumping adventures when conditions are right.

There are 114 balcony suites, and even entry-level options are attended by butlers. Even the smallest of the bunch, Verandah Suites, feel spacious, starting at 344 square feet. I particularly loved how roomy the bathroom felt — and how snazzy the black-and-white marble looked. All suites have king-size beds (that can be split into two twins) and high-end amenities including Dyson hair dryers.

Other cabin categories include Spa Suites (starting at 495 square feet), Panorama Suites (starting at 1,130 square feet), and Owner's Penthouse Suites (an astonishing 2,099 square feet). Spa Suites have the addition of a Philippe Starck–designed tub; the two Owner's Penthouse Suites on board have outdoor spa tubs on their sprawling terraces. 

MISLAV MESEK/Courtesy of Scenic

Scenic Eclipse II has an incredible array of delightful dining experiences — 10 in all. My favorites included the sushi bar, French restaurant Lumière, the adjacent Champagne bar, and Night Market @ Koko's, a venue with a rotating menu of regional cuisines, from the Middle East to India. I also loved the casual Azure Café, which serves lighter bites for breakfast and lunch, plus pizzas and pastas for dinner. Room service — which is available 24 hours a day — was also impressive. Finally, it's worth mentioning the gorgeous Scenic Lounge Bar, behind which is an illuminated display of rare whiskies, all available at no extra charge.

Where Scenic Eclipse II Sails

Where doesn't this ship sail? With Polar Class 6 rating, Scenic Eclipse II is capable of traveling to the Arctic and Antarctica but also spends time in warm-weather spots including the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia, depending on the season. The ship also travels to familiar cruise destinations, including the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. Because of the ship’s relatively small size, it can visit some ports that mega-ships aren’t able to.

On my sailing, included shore excursions were fairly typical: Guests had their choice of city walking tours, along with visits to major attractions, like historic sites and cultural centers. In some destinations, we had the option to tackle more adventurous excursions, such as snorkeling.

When the ship is in "discovery mode," on expedition in more remote locations, such as the Arctic and Antarctica, excursions are more dynamic — think boarding Zodiacs to make “wet landings” on shore or for scenic trips around icebergs. In many destinations, Scenic Eclipse II offers helicopter and submersible excursions for an additional fee, depending on local regulations and the weather. . 

The most notable amenity on Scenic Eclipse II is the spa, which spans nearly 6,000 square feet and includes a thermal suite. I also spent plenty of enjoyable time on the sun deck, where there’s a plunge pool and the indoor-outdoor Sky Bar. As far as entertainment goes, you won’t find the over-the-top productions that you might see on mega-ships, but that’s part of being on an intimate expedition-style vessel. There is a small theater, though, and I enjoyed the evening shows put on by the talented singers aboard.

Children aged 12 and up are welcome, but my sense was that this isn't a particularly kid-friendly ship: There’s no kid’s club nor is there any sort of programming aimed specifically at tweens or teens. The right kind of kids might like these trips, but they’ll need to be willing to be, potentially, the only youngsters aboard.

There are no wheelchair-accessible cabins on Scenic Eclipse II , which does have elevator service between all decks. Scenic advises travelers to contact the company before booking to discuss any specific accessibility concerns. Worth a mention was one moment during my trip, when several other guests and I were transported by bus from our pre-embarkation hotel to the port: We were dropped off nowhere near the ship, and there were no Scenic staff on hand to guide us to the terminal's entrance. A few dozen of us, including some people with limited mobility, found it to be a fairly difficult experience. 

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Tips for Traveling Alone and Why You Should Go on a Solo Cruise

By  Chantae Reden | Published on December 1, 2021

At the age of 19, I purchased a plane ticket to Nicaragua and ventured on my first-ever solo trip to Central America. Ten years and 30 countries later, I still believe that traveling alone is one of the best ways to see the world. When you travel solo, you're likely to make new friends, develop newfound confidence and experience the freedom of waking up in a destination and doing the activities you're passionate about, all on your own timeline.

Tips For Traveling Solo

When friends and family hear that I'm planning a solo trip to a far-flung destination, I'm usually met with one question:

 "Is it safe to travel alone?"

Understandably, safety is one of the biggest factors on people's minds when it comes to venturing on a solo vacation. On my first international trip traveling alone, I scheduled a driver to pick me up at the airport and drive me six hours away to my accommodations. However, my plane landed late in the evening and my driver was nowhere to be seen. I'd failed to write down the address of my destination, trusting the driver to have it. Then, because I'd failed to put a travel notice on my credit card, my debit card was declined at the airport's ATM. I only had the exact amount of cash on hand to pay my rogue driver.

With no plan B, I cried and walked from the airport to a nearby hotel in the dark. The hotel receptionist took pity on me and helped me call my bank and my family back home. We also arranged for a new driver to take me to my destination in Popoyo, Nicaragua the next morning.

Once I've arrived somewhere as a solo traveler, I take the same precautions that I take in any major city. I typically stick to main roads, avoid showing off any expensive objects and aim to be back in my hotel just after dinner. If a stranger seems too inquisitive, I'll mention that I'm planning to meet a friend. I also ask locals and hotel staff for safety advice and guidance on what scams I should be looking out for.

 Though most destinations are worth visiting as a solo traveler, there are some that are easier to navigate than others. One thing you can count on, however, is that you likely won't be the only one doing it. Solo travelers are one of the fastest-growing travel demographics, with more people traveling alone to new countries each year. In regions like Europe , the South Pacific and Southeast Asia, solo travelers can be found in just about every hostel.

Joining meetup groups, walking tours and day trips and taking cultural dance or cooking classes are all interesting ways to learn about the place you're visiting in a social environment. As a solo traveler in Hawaii , I went on an adventure tour of the North Shore where we could snorkel, hike to waterfalls and kayak. While I was nervous about feeling left out of the group at first, I met a fellow solo traveler on the tour bus who happened to feel the same. We kayaked through a sea turtle sanctuary together, nearly spilling into the water in excitement whenever a sea turtle bobbed its head above the surface. Later, we met up for a sugar-sweet scoop of shave ice and swapped contact information.

It's a common misconception that traveling alone is bound to be a lonely experience. I've found I actually make more friends on the road as a solo traveler. I'm more likely to strike up a conversation with a stranger and join group experiences and I'm often seen as more approachable by other travelers than when I travel with a friend. Because I'm not beholden to anyone else's schedule, I can easily join and leave travel groups as I please. I've made some of my best friends while traveling solo and we now often plan trips together. My spouse and I met because he was traveling alone through California, my home state, and I gave him an impromptu tour of Southern California .

If you're trying to decide where to stay, hostels foster a social environment that's ideal for making travel buddies. If you want to be able to take a break, some hostels have private rooms available, offering solo travelers a nice compromise of privacy and a social life. Standard hotels are ideal for those looking for solitude and a private escape, but it may be a challenge to make friends, especially if the hotel caters to romantic getaways or families with young children. And while relaxing at an overwater bungalow in the Maldives sounds idyllic, I'd probably save that seaside getaway for when I'm traveling with a partner.

Some guided multi-day tours cater to solo travelers, which is a bit of an oxymoron when you consider that you'll have travel partners from sunrise until sunset for the duration of your trip. This is a great option for those who are nervous about traveling on their own but don't want to let their fear get in the way of going on a journey to somewhere new.

Why A Cruise Is An Ideal Solo Vacation

A cruise offers a great balance of relaxation and adventure for solo travelers. It's a trip where you're bound to make interesting friends from all around the world while enjoying the freedom of movement that only solo travel brings. You can enjoy a multi-city trip with the freedom of not having to worry about the logistics of finding accommodation, transportation and delicious meals. Then you can recapture your solitude whenever it suits you and enjoy the destinations , activities and amenities that the cruise offers on your own schedule. Here are some of the best perks of a solo cruise.

Company (Only) When You Want It

Onboard a cruise, there are dozens of activities to keep you busy. Plus, you're bound to meet people as you try your hand at adventure activities like fencing, archery, ziplining, catching a wave on the FlowRider*, racing around on bumper cars, rock climbing and sliding down the best water attractions at sea.

When it's time to slow your heart rate, escape for a spa treatment or perch yourself at one of the many bars onboard and swap travel tales with the bartender. There are also cooking classes, theater performances, dance classes and karaoke nights, where you can get to know your fellow travelers by bonding over mutual affinities for and distastes of the songs being belted on stage.

Options For Outings

Once the ship pulls into port, you can venture on a shore excursion with other guests or strike out on your own. Fellow solo travelers tend to join shore excursion trips, so that's an easy way to make friends with whom you can plan future activities onboard. Blow bubbles and explore dive sites in the aquarium-clear waters of Bonaire with a scuba dive buddy, embrace your curiosity on a cultural tour of Kyoto, learn to surf in Oahu or explore the Greek ruins in Athens. Back on the ship, you'll have plenty of shared memories with your shipmates.

Your Own Team Of Experts

As a solo traveler onboard, it's often easy to get to know the staff. Crew members usually hail from all around the world and often share your love of travel. They're experts at recommending the best things to do no matter your interest and are also savvy when it comes to helping guests choose excursions and making the most of the ship's features. On one cruise, a staff member showed me which lounge chair area was bound to get the most shade throughout the day.

Dining is one of the most common conundrums for solo travelers, especially if you're not keen on ordering room service each evening. Fortunately, the maître d' often has a good eye for matching solo travelers at a dining table together as long as you simply let staff know in advance. If you'd like your solo vacation to double as a complete retreat, bring a book along and enjoy dining in your own company. Don't be afraid to enter the specialty dining restaurants, either.

It's A Good Value

Going solo on a cruise can offer a great deal for travelers. Solo cruise vacations are becoming increasingly popular and select Royal Caribbean ships have studio staterooms . These rooms are designed specifically with solo travelers in mind, and you can say goodbye to single supplement fees. If you'd rather go with another option, there's nothing wrong with paying a bit more and having a larger stateroom to yourself.

Ready To Travel Alone?

If you want to enjoy the freedom of a solo trip without the heavy planning logistics, a cruise is a great way to get your feet wet. You'll have the benefit of planned meals, activities and excursions whenever you want, along with plenty of ways to satisfy your wanderlust. A solo vacation is a great way to come to center; you'll return home feeling rejuvenated and filled with the confidence that all you need is yourself to have a wonderful time.

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The 12 Best Luxury Cruises For White-Glove Service At Sea

All products and services featured are independently selected by forbes vetted contributors and editors. when you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission. learn more, annie davidson watson , contributor, forbes vetted.

L ong gone are the days where overcrowded ships with overstimulating amenities are your only cruising option. They certainly still exist, but now there’s a much stronger and more accessible market for luxury charters. Combining lavish amenities and refined comforts with the thrill of exploration, the best luxury cruises have taken white-glove service to the sea. In fact, luxury cruising has become so in demand that many esteemed hospitality brands—like the Ritz-Carlton , Four Seasons and Aman—have recently launched branded yacht collections of their own.

More than just a vacation, luxury cruises are designed to cater to the whims and desires of its discerning guests (caviar and Champagne on-demand, anyone?). From glimmering chandeliers and secluded suites adorned with plush furnishings to one-to-one crew and passenger ratios and carefully-curated expeditions, these cruises redefine the meaning of extravagant living—on land and sea. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, small group, or otherwise, we’ve selected the best luxury cruises of 2024.

Best Luxury Cruise Overall: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Evrima

Best luxury river cruise: viking river cruises, viking osiris, best luxury cruise for foodies: crystal, crystal serenity and crystal symphony, best small ship luxury cruise: seabourn, seabourn pursuit, best luxury cruise for couples: silversea cruises, silver ray, best luxury cruise for families: msc, msc world europa.

• Most Yacht-Like Luxury Cruise: Four Seasons, Four Seasons Explorer

Best Luxury Expedition Cruise: Aurora Expeditions, Sylvia Earle

Best luxury cruise for small groups: windstar cruises, star pride, best luxury cruise for solo travelers: ponant, le lyrial.

• Best Luxury Cruise For Book Lovers : Avalon Waterways, Avalon Artistry II
• Best Value Luxury Cruise : Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seven Seas Voyager

The Terrace Suite on Evrima

Recommended Itinerary: 11-Night Athens to Venice

Departure: From June 19, 2024

All-Star Amenities: The tasting menu at the onboard restaurant S.E.A., crafted by the Ritz-Carlton Wolfsburg in Germany’s Michelin-starred chef Sven Elverfeld

The Ritz-Carlton has built a brand on its premier white-glove service on land, which now extends to sea following the recent launch of its Yacht Collection in the fall of 2022. Its 298-passenger ship, Evrima , marries a yacht-like experience with access to even more amenities (six restaurants, four pools, suite-style sea-facing cabins, salon, spa, fitness center and more). Aside from the ship itself, what makes Ritz-Carlton’s Evrima stand out from the rest is its sheer amount of itinerary options. You can explore the European Mediterranean and the enclaves of Canary Islands on one charter, then see the Caribbean’s greatest hits like San Juan and St. Barts on the next. Thanks to the Ritz-Carlton’s world-renowned reputation, Evrima is drawing younger crowds to the luxury cruising scene, creating a more diverse experience. Ultimately, the feel here is of a true luxury hotel at sea.

Guest room on Osiris

Viking Osiris

Recommended Itinerary: 12-Night Pharaohs & Pyramids

Departure: From August 21, 2024

All-Star Amenities: The sheer knowledge of and access to the crew

Time spent on Viking River Cruises’ Viking Osiris is not only a retreat, but an enlightening experience. Known for its educational programming, the ship features lectures and informative guides that highlight seemingly endless knowledge on everything Egyptian (ancient to modern). Paired with the Nile as a backdrop, you’ll find yourself absorbing more than you can have possibly imagined. Built for just 82 passengers, the intimate ship is a modern vessel built specifically for the Nile, with intentional Scandinavian design details. It has a light and bright feel, encouraging outdoor exploration of the riverbanks through plenty of outdoor decks. Guests must be 18 years or older, which makes this a great option for couples or older families who can truly appreciate the experience.

Umi Uma on the Crystal Symphony.

Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony

Recommended Itinerary: 10-Day Venice to Athens on the Crystal Symphony

Departure: From November 14, 2024

All-Star Amenities: The only Nobu restaurant at sea, Umi Uma by Nobu Matsuhisa Restaurant and Sushi Bar

After a brief hiatus in 2022, Crystal Cruises made a comeback in 2023, setting sail as Crystal—Exceptional at Sea under guardianship of the Abercrombie & Kent travel group. Along with the new name, Crystal refreshed its two ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony , and reintroduced them to the world of luxury with more spacious suites, a revamped spa and refreshed entertainment and events programming. The real star of the show, however, is Crystal’s exceptional dining, anchored by the only Nobu restaurant at sea, Umi Uma by Nobu Matsuhisa Restaurant and Sushi Bar, which can be found on both ships. One meal at Umi Uma is included with your sail (per person, on sailings 11 days or shorter) with each additional visit available for a charge of just $50 per person—incredible value to experience fan favorites like the miso-marinated black cod. Aside from a night at the most luxurious specialty restaurant you can find on a cruise ship, the rest of Crystal’s dining offerings are equally superb, from seasonal dishes at Waterside to classic Italian fare at Osteria D’Ovidio.

With an elegant design that reads yacht-like, Pursuit includes fine dining options for a true luxury cruise experience.

Seabourn Pursuit

Recommended Itinerary: 21-Day Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland

Departure: From December 15, 2024

All-Star Amenities: Two custom-built submarines, 24-person expedition team

Setting sail in August, the 264-passenger, 132 seafront-suite-only Seabourn Pursuit is the newest ship to join the Seabourn fleet. With an elegant design that reads yacht-like, Pursuit includes several fine dining options and formal supper nights, as well as complimentary caviar and Champagne on-demand, for a true luxury cruise experience. The crowd is well-traveled and skews older; you won’t find many late-night revelers here, in part because the ship doesn’t offer any onboard youth programming (although children are still welcome). That said, the ship does include entertainment that’s worth experiencing—singers, pianists and more.

White-gloved butlers and complimentary caviar are just a few elements that make Silversea’s Silver Ray perfect for a stress-free getaway.

Recommended Itinerary: 8-Day Cartagena to Lima

Departure: From December 27, 2024

All-Star Amenities: The onboard dining scene, specifically S.A.L.T. Kitchen, La Dame and Kaiseki

The second in Silversea’s Nova class ships sets sail this summer when the 728-guest Silver Ray makes a splash in the Mediterranean before crossing the Atlantic to winter in warmer climates. Mirroring her sister ship, Silver Dawn , she boasts the same level of service you expect from Silversea. White-gloved butlers, suite-only accommodations, complimentary caviar and Roman baths are just a few of the elements that make Silversea’s Silver Ray perfect for a stress-free getaway for couples in need of pampering. Beyond the ship, Silver Ray’s itineraries immerse her guests in authentic experiences that showcase the beauty in the world. Passengers tend to be in the 55-and-over age range and you won’t find many children onboard, which for couples, might just be what the doctor ordered.

Owner's Suite on MSC World Europa

MSC World Europa

Recommended Itinerary: 7-Night Western Mediterranean

Departure: From July 1, 2024

All-Star Amenities: LEGO experience, Aurea spa featuring high-tech beauty treatments and thermal experiences

Larger than many other luxury ships, MSC World Europa manages to host nearly 7,000 passengers while still keeping everyone serviced and entertained with over 1,400 crew members. With plenty of pools and hot tubs, and more unique amenities like a casino, arcade, brewery, Formula 1 simulator, water park, roller rink and more, there’s truly something for everyone onboard. Plus, it boasts the tallest dry slide at sea in the world—a must-do for families. There’s also a Family Zone that caters to every age range, from infants to teenagers, with dedicated sections per group.

Best Yacht-Like Luxury Cruise: Four Seasons, Four Seasons Explorer

The exquisite 128-foot luxury catamaran set sail in Palau in late-2023 and provides her guests an experience that’s out of this world.

Four Seasons Explorer

Recommended Itinerary: 6-Day King George Island

Departure: From November 27, 2024

All-Star Amenities: Speedboat transfer, PADI 5-star dive center, international dining

Luxury hotelier Four Seasons is expected to debut its highly-anticipated Four Seasons Yachts in early 2026. Until then, guests are invited to embark upon a true yacht experience onboard Four Seasons Explorer . With just 10 staterooms and an expansive Explorer Suite, the exquisite 128-foot luxury catamaran set sail in Palau in late-2023 and provides her guests an experience that’s out of this world. In addition to the attentive service onboard, everyone can dive into the clear Micronesian waters to visit the undersea world that’s filled with manta rays, sharks, orcas and, of course myriad fish. Back onboard, relax in the lounge, library, or sundeck, and enjoy indoor and outdoor dining while enjoying all the special touches for which Four Seasons is known, including checking in and out on your schedule.

Sylvia Earle Suite on the Sylvia Earle

Sylvia Earle

Recommended Itinerary: 14-Day Antarctic Explorer featuring the Chilean Fjords

Departure: From March 1, 2025

All-Star Amenities: The availability of so many amenities—restaurants, bars, hot tubs—that aren’t as typical on expedition cruises

Sailing on Aurora Expedition’s Sylvia Earle is nothing short of an adventure. Founded about 30 years ago by climber Greg Mortimer and inspired by the female marine biologist after whom it’s named, the 132-passenger Sylvia Earle has exploration ingrained in its DNA. It’s no surprise, then, that the staff is incredibly knowledgeable and eager with an up-for-anything attitude (remote seas, some of the world’s highest peaks, you name it). Plus, the onboard amenities rival any luxury cruise—a rarity on expedition ships.

Owner's Suite Living Room on Star Pride

Recommended Itinerary: 10-Day Comprehensive Iceland Cruise Tour

Departure: From August 20, 2024

All-Star Amenities: Join the yacht’s culinary team to shop provisions for meal service at local markets

A 312-passenger, all-suite vessel, Star Pride feels large enough for small groups where they won’t feel too-close-for-comfort and can have their own privacy, but intimate enough where they can welcome outside connections. And thanks to its size, it’s able to access less-traveled routes and ports that make for an even more memorable experience to enjoy among a group. Plus, there are plenty of dining options (five restaurants including a top-notch Spanish tapas concept that’s a must-try) to enjoy as a group or split up on different evenings.

From sailing past icebergs and rugged mountains to spotting whales, there is plenty to keep you busy throughout the duration of the cruise.

Recommended Itinerary: 15-Day Wilderness from Greenland to the East Coast of Canada

Departure: From August 25, 2024

All-Star Amenities: Single supplement waived on more than 100 voyages; spa with hammam; fine dining

Solo travel is becoming more popular amongst travelers, so it’s nice when you find a luxury cruise line that welcomes independent cruisers by waiving the single supplement. French cruise line Ponant does just that on more than 100 of its voyages, including the brand new 15-day Wilderness from Greenland to the East Coast of Canada itinerary. From sailing past icebergs and rugged mountains to spotting whales, polar bears and muskox, and excursions along the way, there is plenty to keep you busy throughout the duration of the cruise.

Time aboard Le Lyrial is filled with guest lectures, fine dining in two onboard restaurants and exceptional, personalized service. With just 122 staterooms and suites and 244 guests, and plenty of space for everyone, the ship never feels overcrowded. After days of exploration, retreat to the spa for complimentary access to the hammam and a full menu of services in partnership with SOTHYS Paris, including massages and facials.

Best Luxury Cruise For Book Lovers: Avalon Waterways, Avalon Artistry II

Onboard, enjoy wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that convert Panoramic Suites’ living spaces into open-air balconies.

Avalon Artistry II

Recommended Itinerary: 8-Day Cheers to 50 Years! A Storyteller Cruise & Birthday Celebration with Jen Hatmaker

Departure: From August 3, 2024

All-Star Amenities: Well-stocked library; onboard adventure center; daily happy hour

Book lovers quietly rejoiced when Avalon Waterways debuted its Storyteller Series in 2021. Through the series, revered authors and musicians join guests onboard select itineraries for a week of conversation and collegiality while exploring stunning European river landscapes. During the 8-day Cheers to 50 Years! sailing, New York Times best-selling author Jen Hatmaker will celebrate her 50th birthday aboard the intimate Avalon Artistry II , with just 64 staterooms and suites, when it sails through Holland and Belgium.

In addition to spending time with Hatamaker, guests can choose their own onshore adventures through Avalon Waterways’ curated excursions that appeal to all types of travelers: Active, Classic and Discovery. Back onboard, enjoy daily happy hour; wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that convert Panoramic Suites’ living spaces into open-air balconies; and complimentary WiFi to share the trip with your book club back home.

Best Value Luxury Cruise: Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seven Seas Voyager

All of the luxury line’s 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares include free roundtrip business class air on intercontinental flights and free air on domestic flights.

Seven Seas Voyager

Recommended Itinerary: 16-Day South Pacific Revelry

Departure: From February 11, 2025

All-Star Amenities: 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares; complimentary business class air; complimentary two- and three-night land programs; all-balcony suites; free unlimited shore excursions

The words value and luxury may not seem to go together, but they do when sailing with Regent Seven Seas Cruises. All of the luxury line’s 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares include free roundtrip business class air on intercontinental flights and free air on domestic flights; free two- and three-night land programs to enjoy before or after the cruise; pre-paid gratuities; free valet laundry service and more.

Soak up the sun of the South Pacific on the 16-day South Pacific Revelry cruise. Departing from Auckland, the voyage calls upon Vanuatu, Fiji and Samoa before arriving in French Polynesia, where you’ll enjoy three days of island bliss.

What Are The Top Luxury Cruise Lines?

In the seemingly ever-growing category of luxury cruise lines, you may wonder which are the crème de la crème. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection , Ponant and Aurora Expeditions certainly fit the bill, providing exceptional experiences with exquisite service to some of the world’s most exotic destinations, all aboard luxurious vessels.

What Is The Best Luxury Cruise Line For Couples?

Couples who want to set sail in the lap of luxury should make reservations with Silversea Cruises . The luxury cruise line attracts a more mature clientele and its worldwide destinations set the scene for couples who only have eyes for each other.

About Annie Davidson Watson, Your Luxury Cruise Guide

I'm a writer, editor and consultant who has covered luxury travel and cruising for the last ten years. Formerly, I was an editor at Departures, Travel + Leisure, Glamour and more, and I now contribute regularly to both Forbes and Forbes Vetted. I'm also the founder of @littleackbook , a Nantucket-based publication and concierge service. For more, follow me at @anniedavidsonwatson .

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Subscriber only, travel | new cruise line dining experiences make you forget you’re on a cruise.

A recent trend, though, has seen cruise lines investing in designs meant to transport the diner away from the vessel.

One of the newest ventures is sticking them on a train. Royal Railway – Utopia Station is a featured restaurant coming on board Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas when it debuts this summer in Port Canaveral.

Cruisers will climb aboard a simulated train to experience what traveling on a dining car is like, complete with passing different countryside scenes projected on digital screens.

The first sailings will be limited to an adventure themed to the America’s Wild West for a 90-minute trip that mimics the sights, sounds and feel of a moving train car. Other themes in the works are based on the Silk Route trains that traveled through Asia and 30-minute offerings.

Diners start with pre-dinner drinks on a station platform, and when the train whistle sounds, board the dining car where a cast of performers play out an interactive storyline involving outlaws attempting a train robbery. Royal Caribbean put on a sample version of the experience at its Miami headquarters on Thursday.

The menu leans into ingredients from New Mexico and California. Hard drinks are thematic to the Old West (think pisco sour) as is the soft drink of sarsaparilla served in a flask. Entrees include river trout, braised short ribs and quail-esque roasted poussin. Appetizers include corn chowder, an empanada trio and “Fart & Dart Baked Beans.”

A little juvenile humor does make its way into the performance, as do some dad jokes and over-the-kids-heads jokes.

“It’s like a caricature. It’s good old-fashioned fun,” said Royal Caribbean President Michael Bayley, but he said the performances and approach may depend on when cruisers are seated.

“In the afternoon into the early evening, it will be more kid-immersive. As you move later on into the evening, it will be more sophisticated,” he said.

The main draw to the experience are the continuous digital screen projections that include frontier towns and desert and mountain landscapes that could be right out of an Albert Bierstadt painting.

The final product resolution will be in 4K, but even the test run’s digital renderings were impressive, minus the few hiccups like a horse floating over the cliff.

Royal Caribbean’s chief product innovation officer Jay Schneider said relying on computer-generated video proved to be the better choice over real landscape videos,  although teams did visit actual railways in the West for inspiration.

“Now we can flip a switch and make this winter and make this nighttime,” he said. “That definitely kind of unlocked a lot of possibilities.”

There’s also the $200, three-hour-plus dining experience at the 38-seat venue Empire Supper Club that debuted on the world’s largest cruise ship Icon of the Seas that began sailing from Miami in January.

It transports diners to the roaring ’20s of New York City amid an eight-course meal with each course paired with a unique cocktail.

Diners enjoy music from the American Standards Trio with a vocalist, piano and stand-up bass.

The details such as the rotary phones in the lobby and the uniformed waiters and hostess wearing a sultry dinner gown add to the ambience. The menu delves into some not-so-common options such as oysters Rockefeller and a leg and loin duo of rabbit. More traditional fare is offered, too, including steak, seabass and Caesar salad.

The cocktail pairing approach means no wine, and that’s OK for the venue, said Linken D’Souza, vice president of food and beverage for Royal Caribbean International.

“We went through many iterations of the cocktails to make sure that they’re well balanced. … They paired exceptionally well with the food,” he said. “So that’s not E for everyone. And that’s OK. It’s just a unique niche experience that we want people to really be adventurous.”

Royal isn’t the first to venture down the thematic dining road, which has in some ways been dabbled with over the years, including dinner theater in-the-round venues on some Norwegian Cruise Line ships such as the short-lived magic-themed Illusionarium on Norwegian Getaway and the celebration of 1980s teen films from John Hughes on Norwegian Escape.

And Disney Cruise Line’s rotational dining has always served up a variety of thematic overlays. Its newest ships, though, have taken it to the next level.

That includes the Worlds of Marvel dining venue on both its latest ship Disney Wish, and its upcoming Disney Treasure debuting this December, both sailing out of Port Canaveral. Disney Wish also debuted Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, a vast food hall that expanded on similar approaches to dining themed to “Tangled” and “Princess & the Frog” on older ships Disney Magic and Wonder.

For Disney Treasure, the line is shelving “Frozen” in favor of the Disney-Pixar film “Coco.” The new overlay will feature a five-course meal with a modern take on traditional Mexican fare.

It will feature live performers telling the story of Miguel and his familia being offered up with different-themed seatings per voyage, as it’s tied to a seven-night sailing. The first night takes diners to Mariachi Plaza with Miguel’s parents Enrique and Luisa as well as Abuelita Elena. The second night takes diners to the town square in Santa Cecilia through where Miguel and his ancestors including great-great grandparents Hector and Mama Imelda celebrate Día de los Muertos.

“The adventure takes you through [those] heartstrings, and pulls you back into family, right?” said Carlos Jimenez, a managing producer with Disney Cruise Line Entertainment. “Doesn’t matter if you’re coming from the Mexican culture or any other culture. Family’s at the center – la familia es todo . So family is everything and we want to make sure we’re telling that beautiful story.”

Princess Cruises also debuted a suite-level guest offering called “360: An Extraordinary Experience” on board Enchanted Princess and Discovery Princess.

The line carved out a small rotunda venue with two half-circle long tables facing one another for 20 diners to serve up a seven-course meal that hits all the senses over an hour and a half.

Diners begin seated within a dark room surrounded by digital screen snapshots of Mediterranean destinations about the circular enclosed walls, What follows is a combination of storytelling of a culinary adventure from Greece to Italy to Spain and into France with an assist from actress Brooke Shields leading the way.

It’s a narrative device to get the real stories told, the source of the various culinary delights presented with white-glove service from course to course, whether it’s the Spanish divers who take the red varietal Grenache and age it underwater or the French lavender farmer who explains where the distinct honey flavor comes from.

Along the way, and intense and detailed projection about the room and onto the dinner service plates invites diners to interact with their meal settings before the actual food is presented, such as virtually smashing some Greek plateware or digging up their own Spanish truffle.

The scents of the food while dining could suffice, but an effusive olfactory accompaniment hits here and there such as the lemon aroma ahead of the tasty Italian dish pasta al limone while its recipe is projected upon the screen.

“What happens here in 360 is you can be anywhere in the world and we’re going to transport you into the Mediterranean,” said Princess Cruises President John Padgett during the experience’s debut event. “We have immersive video, storytelling, food and wine that intersects with the story.”

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Cruise captain detained after ship collides with motor boat on Danube River, kills 2

BUDAPEST - Hungary has detained the captain of a Swiss-based cruise ship, Heidelberg, involved in a collision with a small motor boat on the Danube River  late on Saturday that killed two people, with five others still missing, police said on Monday.

The accident was reported on Saturday night after a 35-year-old man was found with a bleeding head wound near a main road by the river near Veroce, 55 km (34 miles) north of the capital Budapest.

The body of a man was recovered downstream south of Veroce, while a woman's body was found further downstream near a bridge on the northern outskirts of Budapest, where police also recovered the damaged motor boat.

Hungarian police said the cruise ship captain was a Czech national and that they had interviewed and detained him on suspicion of multiple offences, including failing to stop and provide help after an accident.

"Based on the suspicion of police, the captain did not alert his crew after the accident, did not follow provisions of the rescue protocol and took no action whatsoever to save the persons afflicted," police said in a statement.

Police have questioned 25 people as witnesses, including the cruise ship's crew, tourists on board and others.

A search continued on Monday for the five missing people, all of whom were in the motor boat, including an 18-year-old woman and a 39-year-old man.

On Sunday, a Reuters news team saw the ship moored in the northern Danube river town of Komarom, upstream from the site of the collision, with large scratches visible on the bow.

A group of Chinese tourists disembarked on Sunday afternoon. One of them told Reuters he had not been aware of any accident at the time.