Ultimate Cruise Guide: Expert Tips to Plan Your Perfect Cruise

Cruise Planning Made Easy From Our Cruise Experts

Thinking about a cruise but not sure where to start? From picking the perfect ship to knowing what to pack, we’ve got everything you need right here.

Maybe you’re dreaming of lazy days in the sun or planning a wild adventure to the Arctic – either way, we’ll help you figure it out.

With decades of cruising under our belts (and countless mistakes learned the hard way), we know all the ins and outs.

Skip the stress and save time with our insider tips on getting the best deals, avoiding common mistakes, and finding hidden gems at every port.

Check out our tried-and-tested advice to make your next cruise unforgettable! We can even help you pick the right cruise outfit!

Best Cruise Tips: Expert Guide for First-Time & Experienced Cruisers

Cruise Tips for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know

Thinking about taking your first cruise? Whether you’re dreaming of Caribbean beaches or Mediterranean ports, we’ve got the inside scoop on everything you need to know before getting on your cruise ship.

From packing the right outfit (yes, you’ll need both flip-flops and formal wear!) to picking the perfect itinerary, this guide will help you sort out the exciting world of cruising.

Singles Guide to Cruising: Top Solo Travel Tips

Travelling solo at sea is easier and more exciting than ever! Modern cruise ships cater brilliantly to solo travel and cruises over 50, with specially designed single cabins and dedicated spaces for meeting others.

Fancy joining group activities or simply unwinding in your own company? You’ll find plenty of options to suit your style – from relaxed meet-and-greets to enrichment classes.

Find out which cruise lines offer single cabins and what they offer.

Family Cruises: How to Actually Have Fun With Kids at Sea

Let’s be real – keeping everyone happy on holiday isn’t easy. But cruise ships have figured out a pretty sweet solution. While your teens hit the rock climbing wall and your little ones splash around in their own pool, you can actually relax by the adults-only deck (yes, really!).

The best part? No more dragging tired kids around looking for restaurants everyone agrees on – just pick from multiple spots already included in your fare. And when the kids are having a blast at their age-specific clubs, you can sneak off for that massage you’ve been dreaming about.

We’ll show you how to pick the right ship and make the most of your time at sea – without breaking the bank.

Best Cruise Ship Water Slides: Your Guide to Ocean Thrills

Want more than just a regular pool on your cruise? Today’s ships are packed with insane water slides, from see-through tubes hanging over the ocean to trap-door drops that’ll make your heart stop.

We’ll help you pick the perfect ship for your thrill level and show you which slides are actually worth waiting in line for.

Mediterranean Cruises: Wake Up in a New Country Every Day

Skip the stress of European travel and unpack just once! On a Mediterranean cruise, you’ll drift between bucket-list destinations while your floating hotel does all the work.

Imagine sipping your morning coffee in Venice, exploring ancient ruins in Rome after lunch, and watching the sunset from your private balcony as you sail to the Greek Islands.

No train schedules, no hotel hopping, no dragging luggage through cobblestone streets. From wandering through Athens’ ancient sites to savoring fresh pasta in Naples and lounging on French Riviera beaches, you’ll get the best of Europe without the usual hassles.

River Cruises: Step Right Off Your Ship Into Europe's Best Towns

Done with boring bus tours and hotel-hopping?

River cruises get you right where you want to be – in the middle of Europe’s most gorgeous towns. Wake up to castle views, wander into local cafes, and discover the real Europe at your own pace.

We’ll help you find the perfect river cruise that matches your travel style.

Polar Expedition Cruises: See Penguins and Polar Bears Up Close

Ever dreamed of getting up close with penguins or watching polar bears hunt on Arctic ice? Expedition cruises aren’t your typical cruise – these are real adventures into Earth’s most remote corners.

Forget pool parties and Broadway shows – we’re talking zodiac rides through ice fields, hiking on pristine glaciers, and spotting whales under the midnight sun.

Your ship is like a floating research base, with experts who’ll help you spot wildlife and understand these incredible polar worlds. Sure, you’ll still get a comfy bed and great food (and a hot chocolate waiting after your adventures), but the real luxury here is accessing places most people will only see on Netflix.

Meet the Crew: We've Cruised Every Sea (And Learned the Hard Way)

We’re real cruise lovers who’ve logged thousands of days at sea. We started this site because we got tired of generic cruise advice from people who’d never set foot on a ship.

Between us, we’ve tested over 100 cruise ships, explored every ocean, and yes, made plenty of rookie mistakes along the way (asking for a window seat at a restaurant in the middle of the ship? Been there!).

From accidentally booking a party ship for our quiet getaway to finding the perfect hidden spots on every deck, we’ve learned what really matters when choosing a cruise.

Now we’re sharing all our hard-earned tips – the stuff we wish someone had told us years ago. No fluff, no sponsored opinions – just real advice from people who know cruising inside and out.

Here's What Our Readers Say

“Thanks to your Mediterranean packing guide, I finally didn’t overpack! First time in 20 years of traveling.” – Sarah, Greece cruise

We love hearing how our tips have helped make your cruises better. From the solo traveler who found their perfect ship using our single cabin guide, to the family who saved $800 with our drink package calculator, your success stories keep us going. Here are just a few ways our readers have used our advice:

“Your port guides saved us in Rome. We skipped the expensive ship tours, used your local tips, and had the best day ever.” – Mike & Jenny

“I was nervous about cruising alone until I read your solo guide. Just got back from my first cruise and already booking another!” – David

“The cabin comparison tool helped us pick the perfect room for our family of 5. No more tiny cabins!” – The Rodriguez Family

Fresh From The Ship: Latest Cruise Tips & Guides

We’re constantly updating our guides with new tips, price changes, and real experiences from our cruising.

Check out our latest advice on everything from outfit ideas to cabin upgrades, plus fresh port guides and money-saving tricks. All updated for 2025, all tested by us.

P.S. Got a tip to share? Drop us a line – we love hearing your cruise discoveries!