Welcome aboard! Whether you’re a cruise newbie or a seasoned sea queen, this is your one-stop port for everything you need to know before you hit the high seas.
From choosing the perfect cruise line to packing hacks and shore excursion tips, this page is here to make your cruise planning smoother than a glass of Prosecco on embarkation day.
It’s no secret—I’m obsessed with cruising. The ocean views, the endless food, the towel animals with more personality than some people I’ve dated… I live for it. 🛳️✨
No matter the cruise line, I’ve always had a fabulous experience. Friendly crew, sparkling clean ships, good vibes all around—and yes, even the crowds are more manageable than at Costco on a Sunday.
So how do you choose the right cruise line for your next sea-bound adventure? Don’t worry, I’ve got some insider tips to help you find your perfect floating paradise.
When I chat with clients about booking a cruise, it’s interesting how many immediately picture nothing but heat waves, beach towels, and banana boat rides. And sure, if sun, sand, and snorkeling are your thing — cruising totally delivers.
But here’s the juicy secret: cruising can be SO much more. Think fjords and glaciers. Wine tastings in Italy. Castles on the Danube. Heck, you can even cruise in a parka if that’s your vibe.
The high seas aren’t one-size-fits-all — they’re more like an all-you-can-sail buffet of amazing options.
Caribbean
☀️ Sun, sand, and rum punch.
☀️ Perfect for first-timers, beach lovers, and winter escapees.
Mediterranean
🏛️ Sail through history and pasta
🏛️ Think Italy, Greece, Spain—hello, gelato and ancient ruins
Alaska
🐳 Glaciers, whales, and lumberjack chic
🐳 Bring your binoculars and sense of awe
Europe River Cruises
🏰 Smaller ships, bigger charm
🏰 Castles, wine tastings, and fairytale towns await
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Booking a cruise can be challenging & I highly recommend doing so with a travel professional. Contact me if you would like assistance (& reassurance) before booking your next great getaway!
Before you go – here’s some insider highlights on what I consider to before you go!
The “Fun Ship” party starter with a budget-friendly price tag.
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, party people, first-timers, multigenerational families who don’t mind a little chaos.
The overachiever with mega-ships, skydiving simulators, and robot bartenders.
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Active families, thrill-seekers, tech lovers, and travelers who want “Vegas at sea.”
The freestyle rebel with modern ships and “do what you want” vibes.
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Independent travelers, foodies, solo cruisers, and people who hate being told what to do (yeah, that’s me 🙋♀️).
The elegant classic with a love of romance and enrichment over roller coasters.
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Romantic getaways, mature travelers, scenic destinations, and fans of The Love Boat nostalgia.
Wholesome, magical, and sprinkled with pixie dust (and a hefty price tag).
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Families with kids, Disney superfans, and anyone craving wholesome magic on the high seas.
The cool older sister of Royal Caribbean—sleek, chic, and a little more bougie.
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Grown-up cruisers, foodies, couples, and travelers who want a touch of luxury without the tuxedo.
This simple list:
✨ Bonus Cruise Packing Tips:
Bon voyage, friends! 🍾
🎁 Want my full cruise packing list broken out by cruising location? Download it here.
Need help picking port activities? I can help! The great thing about working with a travel advisor is our network. Even if you’re booking a cruise that I haven’t taken, I have connections to find the best deals and to steer you away from the tourist traps!
Want more juicy cruise truths? Check out my blog.
Want someone to handle the planning, the questions, and the chaos? I’m here for all of it — and I’ll throw in some sparkling recs, too.
Let’s get you cruising in style — with bubbles before boarding, of course. 🥂 🚢 🍾
