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I’m Brian and let’s take a look…

Let us be real for a minute. Cruising used to feel like the ultimate bang-for-your-buck vacation—unpack once, see multiple destinations, eat your bodyweight in buffet shrimp, and sip umbrella drinks while a steel drum band plays “Hot Hot Hot.” It was a floating paradise where everything felt included, easy, and exciting.

But lately? That vibe is starting to shift.

Perks are disappearing faster than your willpower near the midnight pizza counter. Free room service? Gone on some ships. Shore excursions? Now priced like you are chartering a private yacht. Beverage packages? They will make your wallet weep before your liver ever gets a chance. So, what gives? And more importantly: is a cruise still worth it in 2025?

Let us break it down.

💸 What’s Changing on Cruises?

Cruise lines are quietly (and sometimes not-so-quietly) pulling back on the freebies and bumping up the prices. Here is what has been happening:

Beverage packages have become more expensive—sometimes topping $90/day per person when you factor in gratuities. (You would have to drink like a pirate on shore leave just to break even.) Shore excursions are now often a la carte and pricey, $89 to ride a bus to a beach you could have walked to in flip-flops. Room service fees, Wi-Fi charges, specialty dining surcharges, priority boarding, and even extra fees for poolside loungers have crept into the cruise experience. Loyalty program perks that once felt like VIP treatment. Now trimmed down or gated behind higher spending tiers.

So, yeah. Your “all-inclusive” cruise may now feel more like “some-inclusive with a side of upcharge.”

🚢 So… Is a Cruise Still a Good Vacation Option?

Short answer: Yes—but with caveats.

Cruising can still be a fantastic way to travel if you plan smartly and manage expectations. Here is why it can still float your vacation boat:

🌍 1. Multiple Destinations, One Hotel Room

No other vacation lets you see four islands in one week without hauling your luggage up and down cobblestone streets. You go to bed in one country, wake up in another. That is magic.

🥘 2. Food & Entertainment Value Still Rocks

Even with added charges, most cruises still include more food and shows than a Vegas weekend, and you do not have to sell a kidney to enjoy it. Broadway-style shows, live music, trivia, water slides, comedy clubs—all included in your fare.

🛏️ 3. It is as Relaxing or Busy as You Want

Whether you want to read a book on a balcony with a glass of wine or zip-line through a jungle in Honduras, cruising offers both. And you can flip the switch day by day.

🔄 4. You Can Still Cruise on a Budget

You do not have to buy the drink package. You can do your own excursions, skip the Wi-Fi, or dine in the included venues. If you treat the ship like a resort that comes with free travel, it can still offer serious value compared to a land vacation.

🧠 5. You are Paying for Convenience

Yes, it is more expensive than it used to be—but you are also getting hassle-free travel. No rental cars, no hopping hotels, no constantly Googling “best breakfast near me.” It is vacation without logistics. And sometimes, that is worth its weight in daiquiris.

✏️ Final Thoughts: Cruise Smarter, Not Harder

The golden days of ultra-included cruising might be fading a bit—but that does not mean cruises are not still an amazing vacation option. It just means it is time to be a more strategic cruiser.

Book during promos. Choose your package carefully. Skip overpriced excursions. Bring your own wine (some lines still allow it). Do your research.

Because with a little planning, cruising is still one of the best ways to unwind, explore, and eat way too many desserts—all while waking up to a new view every morning.

Take the Trip, your Next Adventure is waiting.

Are you team “cruise forever” or thinking twice about hitting the high seas? Drop your thoughts (or your favorite cruise hack) in the comments!

July 29, 2025

Cruise embarkation day is basically controlled chaos. Between dropping off your big suitcase with the porters and waiting to get into your cabin, there is a weird window of time when your checked bag is MIA—and you are just standing there with your carry-on, hungry, underdressed, and wondering where your flip-flops went.

That is why what you put in your cruise ship carry-on matters more than you think.

I have learned (sometimes the hard way) what to pack in my embarkation-day bag to stay cool, comfortable, and ready to cruise from the moment I step on board. Here is what is in mine—and what you will want in yours too.

🛂 1. Passport, Boarding Documents & Cruise Lanyard

Rule #1: Do not pack anything, you cannot board the ship without your checked luggage. Keep your passport, boarding pass, vaccine card (if still required), and ID with you.

And yes, bring that cruise card lanyard, you will get your Sail & Sign card (or equivalent) at check-in and will want to keep it handy from the jump.

🩴 2. Swimsuit & Flip-Flops

Your room might not be ready for hours, but the pool will be. Pack a swimsuit and a pair of sandals so you can hit the deck, grab a drink, and start your vacation while everyone else is still searching for their sunscreen.

🧴 3. Sunscreen (Travel Size)

You are not going to enjoy the rest of the cruise if you are already burnt before dinner. Bring reef-safe, TSA-approved sunscreen so you are not the person glowing red by sail away.

🥤 4. Refillable Water Bottle or Tumbler

Stay hydrated, especially after traveling. Most cruise ships let you refill water at buffet drink stations, and having your own cup saves you from using 6 mini glasses just to feel like you drank something.

👕 5. Change of Clothes or Lightweight Outfit

Flights + ports + lines = sweat. Pack a fresh shirt, dress, or lightweight outfit in your carry-on. You will feel like a million bucks once you change out of your “I’ve been traveling for 9 hours” clothes.

📱 6. Phone, Charger, and Cruise Line App

Download your cruise line’s app before you board. It is your key to daily schedules, dining reservations, and ship maps. Also, bring a fully charged power bank—outlets are rare in public areas.

💊 7. Medications and Motion Sickness Remedies

Any must-have meds should always stay with you. I also bring a few Bonine, ginger chews, and Sea Bands—just in case the ocean gets feisty.

🧻 8. Travel-Sized Wipes and Hand Sanitizer

Cruise ships are clean, but embarkation day involves a lot of touching… everything. Handrails, trays, elevator buttons. I like having wipes and sanitizers ready, so I do not catch anything before my first buffet round.

🍿 9. Snacks (Because You Never Know)

Yes, food is everywhere once on board, but you never know when you will actually get to it. A granola bar or trail mix can save you from going full hangry before lunch.

📚 10. Kindle, Book, or Puzzle Book

If you’re planning to chill on the deck while waiting for your stateroom, bring something low-key to pass the time. Bonus points if your book is set on a tropical island. Mood = set.

💰 11. A Bit of Cash for Tips or Porters

Some cash (small bills) goes a long way—especially for tipping porters, grabbing a drink at a pre-cruise bar, or tossing a buck or two at that steel drum guy who is playing “Hot Hot Hot” on the pier.

🧼 12. Mini Toiletry Kit (Especially Toothbrush & Deodorant)

If your big bag does not arrive until later (and it might not), a mini kit with deodorant, toothbrush, and face wipes can keep you from feeling like a travel goblin before dinner.

🚢 Cruise Carry-On = First-Class First Day

Packing your cruise carry-on is not just about convenience, it is about hitting vacation mode immediately. While other passengers are digging through luggage or waiting for hours to change, you are already sipping a drink in your flip-flops, feeling the ocean breeze.

So, pack smart, board relaxed, and cruise like a seasoned pro.

Take the Trip

Helping you avoid vacation rookie mistakes—one well-packed carry-on at a time.

your Next Adventure is waiting. 🧳🛳️🌴

July 29, 2025

Your first cruise is a mix of excitement, confusion, and the occasional moment of “Wait… do I tip the towel animal guy?” Do not worry, we have all been there.

Cruising is one of the easiest ways to travel (hello, floating resort!), but it does come with its own set of unspoken rules and quirks. If you are a cruise rookie, here is your ultimate guide to smooth sailing from embarkation to disembarkation.

🛳️ 1. Arrive the Day Before Your Cruise

Do not play chicken with airport delays. Arrive in your embarkation city a day early. You will avoid the panic, have time to explore, and wake up rested and ready to board your ship—not sprinting through the terminal with your suitcase flying open.

🧳 2. Pack a Carry-On Bag Separately

Your checked luggage may not reach your cabin until later in the day. Keep a small carry-on with your swimsuit, meds, sunscreen, documents, and anything you will need to start your vacation immediately. (See my blog “What’s in My Cruise Carry-On” for the full scoop!)

📱 3. Download the Cruise Line App Before You Board

This app is your key to the daily schedule, restaurant menus, reservations, ship maps, and sometimes even texting your travel companions (without buying Wi-Fi). Download it before you leave home so you are not relying on port Wi-Fi to get started.

🍽️ 4. You Do not Have to Eat Everything… But You Might Want To

The buffet, main dining room, room service, pizza, it is all included. But you do not have to stuff yourself at every meal. (Though I fully support trying 3 desserts “for research.”) Specialty dining costs extra, so read the fine print before making reservations.

🍷 5. Know the Drink Rules Before You Go

Most cruise lines allow you to bring a limited amount of wine or soda onboard at embarkation. Look up the policy, you can save a fortune by bringing your own and skipping the drink package if you are not a heavy drinker. Also, watch for happy hour deals!

🚪 6. Your Room Key is Everything

Your keycard (or medallion on some ships) is your room key, payment method, and ID while onboard. Keep it on a lanyard, clip, or magnet so you are not constantly fishing through pockets. It is basically your onboard identity.

🌊 7. Do not Skip the Muster Drill (Yes, Even If It is Boring)

It is required, it’s fast, and it could save your life. Plus, the quicker you check in, the quicker you get back to exploring the ship or grabbing that welcome cocktail.

🧼 8. Bring These Odd Essentials

Magnetic hooks (cabin walls are metal!) Over-the-door organizer (hello, storage!) Travel-size detergent for sink laundry Refillable water bottle or tumbler Sea-Bands or motion sickness meds, just in case the ship gets sassy!

🎭 9. Say Yes to the Free Entertainment

Broadway-style shows, trivia, comedians, karaoke, bingo—it is all included and often hilarious. You do not need to book everything in advance. Just show up, grab a seat, and let yourself enjoy the cheesiness. It is part of the fun.

🚶 10. Shore Excursions: Book Smart

You do not have to book excursions through the cruise line. Many ports have cheaper local options available right at the dock. Just make sure you are back well before all-aboard time—because the ship will leave you. And they will not feel bad about it.

📦 Bonus Tip: Pack Patience and Flexibility

Cruising is wonderful—but sometimes elevators take forever, the buffet runs out of bacon, or your neighbor is a little too excited about karaoke night. Roll with it. You are on vacation. Smile, sip your drink, and head for the upper deck.

🚢 Your First Cruise Should Not Be Your Last

Cruising can feel overwhelming at first, but once you settle into the rhythm—sunrise coffees, lazy sea days, new ports every morning—it is hard not to fall in love.

The key? Come prepared, stay flexible, and do not take yourself too seriously. You are not just going on a trip—you are joining a floating adventure.

Until next time I am Brian don’t forget to Take the Trip!!

Helping first-time cruisers sail smoother—one lanyard and buffet strategy at a time.

your Next Adventure is waiting. 🛳️🌴🍹

July 28, 2025

You’ve booked the cruise, packed your sea legs, and scoped out the buffet—but have you downloaded the apps that can make your cruise smoother, cheaper, and way more fun?

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, these cruise-specific apps will help you plan, save, and sail like a pro. From embarkation day to your last port of call, here are 10 apps you’ll want in your pocket (and yes, most work offline too!).

⚓ 1. Your Cruise Line’s Official App

For: Daily schedules, dining reservations, messaging, and ship maps

Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess—they all have their own apps. Download it before you board. Once onboard, you can access the daily planner, book shows, check restaurant menus, and sometimes even message your travel group without needing Wi-Fi.

Pro Tip: These apps usually don’t require a paid internet package while on board. Sweet!

🛳️ 2. Shipmate

For: Cruise reviews, deck plans, and cruise countdowns

This is the go-to app for cruise addicts. You can check ship layouts, browse real traveler reviews, and get excited with a cruise countdown. It even helps you connect with other passengers sailing on the same trip.

📆 3. CruiseMapper

For: Ship tracking and itinerary planning

Want to know where your ship is—or where it should be? CruiseMapper gives real-time tracking, port info, and arrival times. It’s fun to follow along, especially if you like knowing what’s just beyond the horizon.

💳 4. Cruise Card Wallet

For: Organizing onboard expenses and cruise cards

Think of this as a digital version of your key card and spending tracker. Some cruise lines include this feature in their apps, but if not, this third-party app helps track purchases and balances so you don’t accidentally blow your budget at the gift shop.

🚢 5. Cruise Critic Forums (Mobile Site or App)

For: Insider tips, ship reviews, and cruise hacks

It’s like Yelp, Reddit, and Facebook for cruisers. Want to know which cabin to avoid or if that shore excursion is worth it? Someone’s already posted about it. Join your cruise roll call and make friends before you even board.

🥂 6. Tip N Split

For: Calculating gratuities and splitting costs

Perfect for sharing drink packages, excursions, or spa tips with friends. And when it’s time to calculate end-of-cruise gratuities, this app takes the guesswork out of tipping fairly.

📶 7. Wi-Fi Map

For: Finding free internet at ports

Don’t want to pay for the ship’s Wi-Fi? Wi-Fi Map helps you locate free hotspots near the port so you can check messages, post pics, or upload that selfie with towel animals—without racking up charges.

🚽 8. Flush (Again!)

For: Finding restrooms in port

Yes, it’s back—because it’s that useful. Especially when you’re docked in a foreign port with questionable signage and a long walk back to the ship. Trust me, it’s better to have it than not.

📸 9. Snapseed

For: Editing your cruise photos

This free photo editing app is great for enhancing all those gorgeous sea views, onboard selfies, and tropical port shots. Make your memories pop before sharing them—or printing a few for your next travel blog post.

📜 10. Travel Insurance Provider App (ex: Allianz, Travel Guard, etc.)

For: Emergency help, claims, and policy info

Not the most exciting app, but important. If anything goes sideways—missed ports, medical issues, lost bags—having your travel insurance app handy speeds up help. You’ll thank yourself for downloading it before you need it.

🌴 Cruise Smarter, Not Harder

Cruising already takes care of your food, fun, and floating hotel—but the right apps can make the whole experience even smoother. You’ll navigate the ship better, stay on top of your spending, and know exactly where to find a drink, dinner reservation, or the nearest port-side Wi-Fi.

So before you set sail, make sure your phone’s charged, your apps are downloaded, and your cruise card lanyard is ready to go.

Take the Trip

Helping you travel smarter—so you can afford souvenirs and snacks.

Set sail without sinking your wallet.

Cruising can feel luxurious—but it does not have to come with a luxury price tag. I have learned a lot from life at sea, and one thing’s for sure: there are plenty of ways to cruise smart, stretch your dollars, and still enjoy all the perks of shipboard life.

Here is how to cruise like a pro—from embarkation to disembarkation—without overspending.

⚓ Book Smart, Sail Smarter

Off-Peak = On Budget: Look for sailing during shoulder seasons—think early December, January, or late April. Prices drop, and ships are less crowded. Interior Cabins Save Big: If you do not need a view to enjoy the cruise, skip the balcony and book an interior room. You will barely be in it anyway! Use a Travel Agent or Cruise Deal Website: They often have access to perks like onboard credit, drink packages, or prepaid gratuities at no extra cost.

🍽️ Eat Like a King Without Spending Like One

Stick with the Buffet & Main Dining Room: The food included is often just as good—sometimes better—than specialty dining. Mix it up for variety. Skip the Soda Package (Unless You are Addicted): Water, tea, lemonade, and coffee are free. Bring powdered drink mixes or iced tea packets for flavor. Try Room Service (It is Often Free or Cheap): Breakfast on the balcony without paying for a specialty restaurant? Yes, please.

🥂 Save on Drinks Without Drying Out

Bring Your Own (Legally): Most cruise lines allow you to bring a small amount of wine or soda onboard at embarkation—check the rules before you go. Look for Happy Hours or Daily Specials: Some bars have 2-for-1 deals or discounted drinks at set times. Skip the Drink Package if You are Not a Heavy Drinker: Do the math—if you will not drink 5+ alcoholic beverages per day, it is probably not worth it.

🎉 Get the Most from Your Entertainment

Take Advantage of Free Shows: Broadway-style performances, comedians, and game shows are all included—and often top-notch. Trivia, Karaoke, and Deck Games: These can be some of the most fun (and social!) parts of the cruise. And they are 100% free. Check the Daily Cruise Planner: Every night, your cabin steward delivers a schedule. Circle your can’t-miss activities and plan your day like a pro.

🚢 Extra Ways to Save Onboard

BYO Refillable Mug or Cup: The ship’s cups are tiny. Having your own saves, you trips to the drink station and keeps drinks cold longer. Watch for Sales on Wi-Fi, Spa, and Excursions: Prices often drop mid-cruise. Do not book everything on Day 1, wait and see. Skip the Ship’s Laundry Service: Pack travel-size detergent sheets and wash small items in the sink. Clotheslines are usually built into your shower.

🏝️ Be Smart About Shore Excursions

Do-It-Yourself Excursions: You do not have to book through the ship. Sometimes a quick walk from the port lands you at a beach or tour for half the cost. Research the Ports in Advance: Look for free or low-cost local experiences. Many islands have $5 shuttle buses or local tours right at the port gate.

💳 Final Budget Bonus Tips

Turn Off Roaming: Ship Wi-Fi is pricey, and roaming charges at sea will shock you. Put your phone on airplane mode unless you have a Wi-Fi plan. Track Onboard Spending in the App: It’s easy to swipe your cruise card and forget—but those little charges add up. Bring a Lanyard for Your Cruise Card: Keeps you hands-free, organized, and out of the gift shop line for overpriced accessories.

🚢 Set Sail Without Overspending

Whether it’s your first time at sea or your fifteenth, cruising does not have to mean breaking the bank. The real treasures are not found in the onboard shops or pricey shore excursions—they are in the sunsets over open water, the laughter during late-night trivia, and the joy of discovering a new port.

So grab your sunscreen, your refillable cup, and your sense of adventure—because the ocean is calling.

Bon voyage—and remember…

Take the Trip,

your Next Adventure is waiting. 🌊🧳🚢