The 7 Best Cruise Ship Casinos in the World

Traveling on a cruise ship is an entertaining, relaxing, and enjoyable experience while traveling or just going on a vacation. The ships are built primarily focusing on luxury, which provides a convenient environment for you to bend with your family or mates who have accompanied you on your expedition. No matter your needs, you can have fun on the ships through various luxurious services offered by the ship's services and the crew members. You can even enjoy a bit of gambling since most of these ships are built with the best cruise ship casinos you can find while traveling by sea vessel. There are many advantages you can enjoy and experience when choosing this mode of transportation. Here is an article showcasing a list of top-rank casino cruise boats you can board and the benefits you will get to enjoy with your selection.

Cunard Queen Mary 2

The ship is a complete marvel, especially the casino. The casino is built with a dazzling array of colors, quality mahogany wood, and rich carpeting. There is a wide range of casino tables to choose from aboard the ship. The vessel is reputable for supplying people who decide the boat with a complete luxury experience by not accepting travelers under the age of eighteen. When you choose this boat, playing poker games like Jokers Wild and Aces and Faces will be fun and exciting. Another reason that makes this ship a popular choice among many people is the high level of professionalism exhibited by the ship's crew.

Carnival Conquest

Carnival Cruise Lines own a wide range of cruise ships, with one ship, Carnival conquest, standing out with its beautiful set of blue, white, and red colors. The vessel operates by sailing to Bahamas and then make other trips to the Caribbean, taking about two to five days and six to nine days. A quality feature of the casino cruise ship that has gained an enormous reputation is the quality number of bars inside the boat. The vessel can carry thousands of travelers and many crew members ranging from one thousand and one hundred staff members. The casino on the ship displays a perfect Caribbean theme with the Island-style Jamaica. Tahiti Casino offers a wide range of casino games from poker, slot games and tables.

Royal Caribbean Odyssey of the Seas

The Royal Caribbean is a reputable casino cruise ship among many people making the ship rank high as one of the premier casino cruises. The ship sails from Fort Lauderdale in Florida and across the Caribbean. With a record of operating for over sixteen years, the ship still ranks high by the luxurious casino services that people cannot get enough of. As expected in a top ranking casino cruise, this vessel provides travelers with a quality array of casino games for a beautiful sea experience. There is an option to satisfy your needs from roulette, tables to blackjack and slot machines.

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Cruise Lines is reputable for its majestic casino cruise built in 2015 and has a length of over a thousand feet. The number of guests that the ship can carry is over four thousand people, including the crew and staff. With a gross weight of over a hundred and fifty thousand pounds, the ship has earned a reputation as a beast of the sea. The casino on the Norwegian Escape is a marvelous sight to see, with slot machines filled in the hallways all over the casino. Many people mostly prefer the casino in the ship since it occupies a large portion of the casino. The casino provides a good convenience for every kind of player where the casino program ranks the guests in five tiers, each with a different benefit.

Oasis of the Sea

A famous ship ranked high as part of the most luxurious sea vessels in existence, Oasis of the Sea, provides a beautiful amusement in its Casino Royale. The casino has a vast floor space dedicated explicitly to casino games like card games, poker, and slot machines. The slot machines in the ship are arranged following their themes to improve the experiences of every people. Through the Casino Royal and the ship's crew's delightful services, the Oasis of the Sea is truly a paradise on the water.

MSC Divina

If you wish to visit or travel to Europe, you can take the option of taking a remarkable Mediterranean voyage and benefit from a fantastic experience. The destinations of the ship's log include the added advantage of you seeing beautiful sceneries in France, Spain, and Italy. Guest aboard the vessel gets to enjoy suites option from royal, deluxe, executive and family, and regular suites. The ship's capacity is monstrous in the sense that it accommodates over four thousand guests and over one thousand and three hundred crew people. Casino Veneziano, the ship's casino, has a stunning view with crystal chandeliers, a beautiful blend of grey, gold, and brown colors. The casino also offers players a wide variety of casino games with different themes for both fun and excitement of the journey.

The Allure of the Seas

From the Royal Caribbean International Cruises, the Allure of the Seas casino cruise provides one of the best experiences compared to other vessels. On the deck, every visitor gets the opportunity to enjoy a selection of quality bars, lounges, and luxurious dining with a variety of shows and activities. The casino on the ship boasts a quality range of casino games you can enjoy while at sea. The games offered onboard the vessel include themed slot games, blackjack, classic slots, and poker.

Conclusion

Traveling by a cruise ship, specifically, a casino cruise, offers you an excellent opportunity to travel with class and luxury at a great value. Compared to other modes of traveling, casino cruises eliminate the stress experienced by people when they are traveling from one point to the other. With quality rooms, bars, and lounges, the casinos on these vessels provide excellent experiences as you journey across the water. From the list above, you can choose a luxurious ship to travel to and see what a wonderful experience it will be.

Across the world, there are many cruise ship casinos that provide an exceptional experience. After all, for those who enjoy gambling, what place could be more picturesque and idyllic to gamble than on a cruise ship? In this list, we will have a look at the very best that cruise ships have to offer in terms of casinos. 
 
Allure of the Seas

This cruise ship is one of Royal Caribbean’s cruise liners. The ship is exceptionally long and has everything you would expect a top class cruise liner to have. On top of that, it has its very own casino with a wide selection of slots, various roulette wheels that you can sit down at and many tables with live dealers and games such as blackjack or baccarat. You get service directly to wherever you are playing, adding even more to that Vegas feel that you are getting at sea!

Queen Mary II

The Queen Mary II is Cunard Line’s flagship vessel, and it is clear to see why. The ship takes a transatlantic route from New York to Southampton and the entire interior is luxurious. The casino onboard is smaller than all the other ones on this list but it more than makes up for it with luxury and comfort. It has an intimate but elegant feel to it, and as you play blackjack, roulette, three card poker and video poker, you will feel more like you are at Monte Carlo than in the middle of the Atlantic. 

Norwegian Escape

The Norwegian Escape usually takes its guests on an incredible trip through the Caribbean and the Bahamas. It has one of the biggest casinos on a cruise ship anywhere in the world and rivals many online casinos like Findbettingsites.co.uk, totalling over 300 slot machines and table games. It also has a wide range of games available to play such as but not limited to blackjack, craps, 3 card poker, baccarat, let it ride, pai gow poker and Texas hold em. 

There are also tournaments for blackjack, slots and hold em, but what makes the Norwegian Escape truly stand out is twofold. Firstly, smoking is permitted in the casino. Secondly, it treats its high rollers as valuable customers, with a VIP area dedicated to them with live dealers and reward programs that gives out more depending on how much you put in. 

Norwegian Epic

Another Norwegian titled cruise liner, this ship is over 1,000 feet long and as such provides a plethora of choices for entertainment. There are live Cirque du Soleil shows on board to enjoy, and the Epic Casino has a wide variety of slots as well as an elegant area for those who wish to enjoy a game of blackjack, craps and roulette. This is perfect for those who wish to go on a luxurious cruise and who want to also gamble on the side, whereas a lot of the other choices on the list should be picked for their casino itself. 

Any cruise liner

Nowadays, most cruise liners have reliable internet connections if the weather allows for it. This means that if you wish to play casino games while you are on a cruise, you can do it regardless of the boat having a casino, you can just hop online!

If you do not have an account with any online casinos before going on your cruise, make sure that you sign up and then you will have access to hundreds of slots, massive varieties of table games, all stakes of poker etc. With the internet today, you can take the casino with you!

Even though a cruise may not seem like a good idea for the moment (it’s still 2020 after all), it never hurts to be prepared. So, if you’re already dreaming of your next cruise, here are a few tips and tricks to make the most out of the experience.

Take Advantage of The Setting

Depending on the type of cruise you select, there will be certain perks included in the package. Things like massages, time spent by the pool (sunbathing or just chilling), fancy drinks, and great company can turn a vacation into a wonderful experience, so why not enjoy it?

Of course, you don’t have to spend all your time by the pool or in the bar. You should also find physical activities to keep you active and social. Also, some cruise ships also offer access to a casino room, with access to a pool table, roulette, and other joyful activities someone on vacation may want to try.

If not, don’t worry. As long as you have access to the internet, you’ll always have access to sites like Casumo. This way, there is plenty of entertainment available even if the cruise ship is a bit lacking in offers.

The secret to a great cruise experience is to keep your mind open and take advantage of everything that’s available.

Don’t OverIndulge

Food and drinks are usually available in a wide range of options for everyone. However, it’s best to keep an eye on your eating and drinking habits. If you overindulge or allow the kids to go crazy on sweets and candy, there’s a high chance you’d get sick (especially if you’re not used to life on a cruise ship).

Even on vacation, it’s best to eat and drink in moderation. This way, everyone will have a good time and you won’t end up with a few extra pounds at the end.

Also, if you’re not much of a drinker, pay attention to the drink packages offered by the cruise line. While it may sound nice to forgo any money worries while on board, these packages usually include around six or more daily alcoholic beverages, which can be a lot even for two people who only drink occasionally.

Use Your Devices

Back in the Dark Ages, cruise personnel used written documents and lists to organize life on the ship and communicate with passengers. Luckily, nowadays, we can use our smart devices to book trips, order food, and keep track of everything that’s happening on the ship.

There are a few apps you can download for free on your smartphone (ask the organizing company about it) and then connect to the ship’s itinerary and schedule. Some apps even allow for different passengers’ groups anyone can join, which may lead to making new friends.

However, in our device-oriented world, there may not be enough slots in your cabin to charge everything (especially if the entire family is present). As such, it’s best to think ahead and get a multi-port adapter.

Take the Trips

While life on board can be fun, it gets boring pretty quickly. True, the personnel will provide entertainment of various kinds, but there will be days when all you can see is the ocean and the other passengers.

So, to make the most of this experience, try to take as many trips inland as possible. It may be a bit costly, but you won’t forget it anytime soon. Also, the pictures and videos will be you next months’ bragging posts on social media!

Wrap Up

Whether you’re preparing for your first cruise or you’re just looking forward to a new experience, it is best to have a few tips and tricks up your sleeve. Depending on the type of accommodation you book, life on a cruise ship can be quite constraining since every inch of space is used with efficiency in mind.

Still, if you know what to expect and prepare ahead, nothing can ruin your vacation! So, make sure to stay informed and stay open to a new point of view on the world.

What is Future Cruise Credit and How Do I Use It?

If you’ve been one of the many who have had their 2020 or 2021 cruise canceled due to Coronavirus, you’ve probably been given the option of a full refund or a non-refundable Future Cruise Credit (FCC) toward a new future sailing. The amount is usually based on the fare or deposit paid toward the cruise, less any taxes and fees (which would be refunded to the guest). To sweeten the pot and entice cruisers into re-booking their cruise, the cruise lines have recently been offering bonus amounts of FCC, resulting in more value than if the cruise were simply canceled outright. If the amount of the new cruise is less than the amount of the FCC, the difference would be reissued as a new FCC voucher with the same expiration date as originally issued. If the amount of the new cruise is more than the FCC, the guest would pay the difference.

How do I Get My FCC?

Normally, a Future Cruise Credit is delivered to the guest by email in the form of a voucher. During the current COVID-1 pandemic, though, because of the unprecedented volume of cruise cancellations, Future Cruise Credits are generally held by the cruise line in the guest’s name until they are ready to rebook, at which time they would contact the cruise line or their travel agent to apply that credit to a new cruise. The FCC is not transferable and can only be used in the name of the guest on the original booking and goes toward the cruise fare. In most cases, it cannot be used as a deposit toward a new cruise.

When will I receive my FCC?

Guests should expect to receive Future Cruise Credit a week or two; however, with so many cancellations by the cruise line due to COVID-19, it can take several weeks. If the guest is registered with the cruise line or is a repeat guest, the guest on-line portal may list the amount of the future cruise credit in the guest account. To confirm the receipt of your Future Cruise Credit, a call to the cruise line or your travel agent may be required. 

What will an FCC NOT cover?

Future Cruise Credit is meant to be paid toward the cruise fare. Generally, FCC cannot be used to pay future charges such as port taxes and fees, initial deposits, prepaid gratuities, shore excursions or any onboard spending.

Read the Fine Print

Each cruise line has different rules as to how a guest can use Future Cruise Credit, and will assign blackout or an expiration date. Be sure to read the terms and conditions to avoid disappointment or loss of your FCC. When in doubt, contact the cruise line or your travel agent. Be sure to understand what happens to your FCC if you or the cruise line cancels the new re-booked cruise. Keep track of your future cruise credits - don’t rely on the cruise line to do it.

______________________________

By Janice Neves, CruiseCrazies Authorized Agent; Photo Credit (Unsplash Stock)

The summer season has been here for a few months, and just like our clothing choices, our footwear choices have undoubtedly changed as well. Now's the perfect time to wear sandals that display your beautiful, delicate feet and allow your feet to breathe, and it sure feels heavenly to walk around in sandals instead of bulky or clunky boots and footwear! But if you would like to ramp up your footwear choices and would like to make the most out of the season by wearing the best leather sandals, here's a look at some ever-popular leather sandal styles for the summer season.

Slides

Slides have always been a popular choice for both men and women, and most of us may already have a reliable and dependable pair of slide sandals in our closets. And if you wear them often during the hot summer months, it’s best to have more than a few pairs available so you don’t wear them out. Slides can come in different forms and styles, which makes them quite versatile for a day at the park or beach, lunch with your friends, or a birthday party or gathering. The term ‘slides’ is literally just that – footwear that you can ‘slide’ onto your feet without the need for any lacing or the strapping of buckles. Slides are practical, and you can opt for slides in different styles such as Jesus shoes or sandals that are great for a day of walking. And since they come in different styles and designs, you can pair them with pants or slacks, a skirt, shorts, and more. For the ladies, slides go beautifully with a flowing caftan or skirt, and you can make a definite fashion statement if you go for a beautiful, elegant, and classic pair.

Flip flops or thongs

Flip flops are another summer staple in leather footwear, although they can also come in canvas or other synthetic materials. But leather flip flops are simply much better than other materials because they are immensely comfortable yet still casual. Flip flops are quite versatile as people of all ages can wear them, and they are especially popular if you're spending time at the beach or boardwalk. And while flip flops are usually seen at beach barbecues, clam bakes, beach parties, and the like, you can even wear them at more formal events such as beach weddings, especially if you choose leather ones. The classic flip flop is here to stay, so the more pairs you have for both formal and casual occasions, the better.

Athletic leather sandals

There are also athletic leather sandals that are perfect for the more active types, and if you think your feet require a bit more support than is given by a pair of flip flops or slides, then athletic leather sandals are for you. These types of sandals are ideal if you will be doing a lot of walking or even hiking because they can provide you with additional support for your heels and ankles, and they usually come with straps that you can buckle up as well.

There are other leather sandal designs and styles from which you can choose, particularly if you want something to mix and match with your wardrobe. And with the right pair of sandals on your feet, you can definitely enjoy the season and make the most of the precious time you spend outdoors!

Image attributed to Pixabay.com

A cruise vacation is an exciting time, full of adventure, exploration of new places, and the chance to see the world in a unique fashion. Moreover, cruise ships have something for everyone, from couples wanting to have a fun honeymoon to families in search of spending time with each other. However, when heading out on your first cruise, it is essential that you prepare for it, not just by making a packing list, but also mentally.

The first step to take into account is the kind of a cruise you want to book. They really do come in different shapes and sizes, from intimate yacht cruises to ones on massive ships that tower over you like a 10-story building. If the aim of your holiday is to get away from the crowds, then a smaller boat is preferable. However, if you want to do multiple activities all the time, then go with a cruise ship that offers everything from a theatre and tennis court to several swimming pools and restaurants. 

It’s Really a Hotel

An excellent way to get yourself mentally ready for a cruise vacation is to think of it as a floating hotel and not a transportation option. So, just like in a hotel you can have room service, get up and enjoy great food at a restaurant, and partake in leisure activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and sports. Once you start to look at a cruise ship as a hotel the possibilities of what you can do, or cannot, become more straightforward, and you can enjoy yourself by doing the things you like.

Be Ready to Socialize

Irrespective of the boat size, a cruise is a very social holiday option. Unlike a regular trip, you will have to interact with people, and over time will come across the same travelers again and again. Dinners in most cruises are on tables where you sit next to strangers. You will also bump into fellow cruisers while playing in the cruise casino, by the pool, or during excursions. Even if you are an introvert, prepare yourself to make small talk or else you’ll find yourself stuck inside your cabin for the whole vacation.  

Don’t Panic

We did mention that a cruise ship is like a hotel, but things are a little different here as compared to any hotel that is permanently on land. For example, a cruise ship will leave you behind if you are late in getting back from your day trip. The idea is to prepare for such an occurrence mentally, so when it happens, you don’t panic. An easy way around such troubles is that you keep all your documents handy when you go off the ship, be aware of where the boat is headed, and then make plans with a clear mind on how to join the ship at the next port of call. 

Be Ready to Get Sick

Similarly, mentally prepare yourself for any sickness you might endeavour on the boat. Again, things are a little different on a cruise where onboard doctors can handle minor medical issues but will drop you off on port if anything significant happens. Being ready for such an occasion mentally can save you a lot of hassles. Remember, people get sick everywhere in the world, and the cruise staff will undoubtedly help you in any way possible. So, by thinking about the worst-case scenario, you can be ready for any mishappening that might take place and deal with it calmly.

Cruising is one of the best ways to explore the world, since cruise ships can reach places that are not accessible by land. Indonesia, for example, the land comprising thousands of islands, hides gems that can only be explored by taking guided Indonesia cruises. Besides, cruises allow you to spoil yourself and your family with a little bit of luxury, but without losing the thrill of the adventure.

Cruises are life changing experiences, a step out of the comfort zone to exploring the world from an unfamiliar angle. The specificness of this type of travel requires a different approach to planning and budgeting. Although, cruising is still perceived as luxury travel, however, it may or may not be. We have put together some good pieces of advice, hoping to make your planning and cruising adventurous, fun and ultimately unforgettable! 

Copyright: Pexels I License: CC0 Public Domain

The Earlier, the Better

Just like any other trip, the earlier you start booking your cruise, the most likely you will be to find better deals. Most importantly, you can save some money by booking ahead of time, and even add some additional commodities, such as spa treatments, to your package.

Balcony Rooms Are Always Worth It…

If you plan to spend some time on the ship to relax and sunbathe, then you should definitely invest your budget in a room with a balcony. Can you see yourself taking your time to get ready in the morning, sipping a delicious cup of coffee while staring at the ocean? If the answer is yes, then the extra cost for a balcony will be worth it.

… but Interior Cabins Are Fine, too

On the other hand, first-time cruisers may be more interested in on-shore experiences. For example, if you are heading to Komodo National Park, you are most likely to spend the majority of your time exploring the shores in search of the famous Komodo Dragon.

While balconies are great, booking an interior cabin is way cheaper, and it will not jeopardise your overall experience. On the contrary, it may be the best way for sailing and experiencing more of the adventurous part. Spending more money on exploring and on shore activities is recommended when going on an adventurous cruise. As rooms with balconies cost way more, pay the extra money only if you are about to spend most of the time on the sheep, relaxing while looking at the endless blue.  

Copyright: Pexels I License: CC0 Public Domain

Don’t Worry About the Currency

If you are travelling to the other end of the world, you may be wondering how and when you should exchange currencies. Besides, some itineraries include stops to several countries, meaning that you may encounter different currencies within just a few days.

If this is your case, you don’t need to worry or think about converting currencies at each port. While onboard, you will use your cabin key as a card in which you can add as much credit as you wish to. When you visit new ports, you will most likely find shops that are already used to make things easy for tourists, and thus accept international currencies, such as the Euro and U.S. dollars.

Always Do the Math

“All you can eat” and “all you can drink” packages can be tempting, especially if you have no idea of how much living on a cruise ship costs. However, before your book, you’ll want to do the math.

Although drink and food packages seem like good deals, they can be a bit tricky. For example, if any member of your group decides to try one of these packages, the cruise line may ask each person in the party to buy one as well. As you can imagine, this is to prevent travellers from sharing drinks.

Don’t forget that even if you spend a few days in port, you will still be paying for the package. This means that you may end up paying for services that you will not use every day, making your cruise more expensive than you thought. Once again, if you are spending most or all of the vacation time on the boat, you will probably benefit from the package, however, in most cases it’s better to pay for what you order. 

What About Your Car?

Unless you are flying to your port of departure, you may wish to drive to it. Just like airports, parking at the cruise port may be expensive, and even if you are a guest of the ship, this doesn’t automatically mean that you will have access to any discount. For this reason, you may want to take into consideration parking at the cruise terminal or in any parking lot near the port, and then just head right to check-in and enjoy your vacation. It’s advisable to always check if the car parking is complimentary with the cruising fee you are paying. 

Tourism is a huge industry in Singapore and contributes heavily to its economy. In 2017 alone, Singapore attracted more than 18 million international tourists, which is three times its population. The presence of a friendly environment as well as natural and heritage conservation programs is something that most tourists visit Singapore to admire.

The latest statistics show that the Asian seas have become more popular for sea cruise destinations. In addition, Singapore is the largest cruise port in Asia and one of the central departure points for cruises exploring exotic destinations across Malaysia, Vietnam, China, and Thailand. Cruise liners that operate to and from Singapore are known for exemplary services in terms of facilities, accommodation, sightseeing, and entertainment.

Singapore has also made it easier for tourists to get travel documents within a short period after application. If you're looking to get your papers, check out singapore-visa.net. Their agents will help you get your documents within the shortest time possible.

Well, back to the topic at hand, here are some of the best cruises to travel with across Singapore.

The Royal Caribbean Cruise

The Royal Caribbean is one of the largest cruise lines in the world. This cruise is designed in such a way that while you are onboard, you can participate in different physical activities such as ice-skating and rock-climbing. Furthermore, it has pools, for example an adults-only solarium and a kid's aqua park.

To add the icing on the cake, the Caribbean Cruise allows you to enjoy different sports such as golf, basketball, and volleyball.The cruise also has three elegant restaurants named and themed after popular operas. It has a ‘50s themed diner, a café, and 24-hour room service. For a five-night cruise, you will visit places like Penang, Langkawi, and Phuket. The prices start at $487.

Sapphire Princess Cruise

This cruise provides out of this world luxury, quality food, and entertainment that will make you enjoy your tour.While onboard, you can enjoy the pools, watch a movie, flex your body at the gym, enjoy a drink at the bar, or visit the comedy club. It has five dining rooms including a pizzeria, café, and grill which serves vegetarian meals, too.

For your kids to enjoy, it has a kid's pool and a kid's club, and the cruise is the best suit for both adults and children. A three-day trip on this cruise costs a minimum of $400.

The Star Clipper Cruise

Compared to most cruise ships, the Star Clipper Cruise is more of a yacht regarding design and experience. With well-designed interior, the cruise can hold up to 170 guests. It has several relaxing options including pools, a piano bar, and a tropical bar. The kitchen blends up different cuisines from Italy, France, and Asia. Vegetarians are also taken into consideration.

The Star Clipper Cruise enables you to explore beautiful islands of Indonesia such as Java, Bali, Bangka Island, Thousand Island, and Gili Trawangan. Furthermore, you will experience breathtaking beaches, awesome weather, and incredible landscapes in the South-East Asian seas. The duration of the cruise is 14 nights and prices start from $2,790.

Conclusion

Compared to taking a flight, cruising is one of the best and most enjoyable ways for travelers to tour Singapore. Moreover, cruising offers something extra in terms of entertainment and gives you the opportunity to visit more than one destination.

Hi my name is Renee and I am here to help YOU solve some of the problems of packing for your next cruise! Let's face it packing for a cruise can be grueling and that is not the way it should be. Packing should be as much fun as the cruise itself!

Our luggage line is ready to service your packing needs and is called  "MY CRUISER™ - EZ PACK”.  It is truly easy to pack because it leaves no question about where to put your shoes, solves the problem with leaking toiletries and separates used laundry from everything else. The removable hanging bag feature is great to hang up in the  bathroom or inside the closet area since it eliminates the need to keep getting in and out of your suitcase. Plus NO PLASTIC BAGS NEEDED with "MY CRUISER™ - EZ PACK”

Let’s get cruisin’ with "MY CRUISER™ - EZ PACK"

Visit: www.mycruiserezpack.com

It's summertime, and the travel is not always so easy. Tourist attractions are crowded and TSA is busy. So, we asked travel agents for some ideas on how to beat the crowds and the heat to have the best family vacation ever. Here’s what they said:

1. Plan ahead. 
Use your precious travel time wisely by doing as much in advance as possible, suggests Roy Gal of Memories Forever Travel Group in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. Book your excursions and tours and even restaurants before you leave home, or ask your travel agent to do it for you.

2. Don’t miss the boat. Or the plane. 
Make sure to leave enough travel time to arrive at the airport or cruise ship no matter how bad the summer traffic might be, says Laurie Ann Delaney Bahna of Cruises, Inc., in Plainview, New York. And at Amanda’s Travels in Lawrence, Kansas, owner Amanda Storm suggests that “even though most agents will put your documents in a day-by-day order, you still need to remember to read them. If there is something very important for you to see, make an appointment on your electronic calendar (with a reminder 12 hours and 3 hours prior) or set an alarm on your phone. Traveling for long periods of time can make you lose track of days. It would be so sad if you miss out on the tour you have been waiting to see because you get your days mixed up.”

3. Check your travel documents. 
Make sure the expiration date on your passport is more than six months past your return date, and that you have any necessary paperwork to travel to your destination. If you are traveling with minors who have different last names from yours or without one parent, bring a notarized letter giving you permission to take them, and their birth certificate and passport, says Phyllis Samowitz of SmartFlyer. And check the spelling of your name on all your flight reservations and documents in advance.

4. Say yes to travel insurance. 
Summer storms or sudden illness can ruin both your best-laid plans and your budget. Buy some peace of mind by opting for a travel insurance plan, says Marge Lenau, owner of Wonderland Family Vacations, LLC, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

5. The more the merrier. 
Make it a true family trip by inviting extended family and friends to join you. The cousins and friends will help keep the kids entertained and “you can throw all the kids in that adjoining room and actually save some money and get a great vacation,” suggests Heather Di Pietro, owner of TravelSalesGroup in Charlotte, North Carolina. But, adds Helen Prochilo, owner of Promal Vacations in Long Beach, New York, “it’s imperative to book early — six months or more, depending on where you are going — to get the cabins or rooms you need” for even a small group.

6. Bring along some basic first aid. 
“Sunburn can really ruin your vacation, and sunscreen is an expensive purchase if you need to buy it,” so bring more than you think you will need, says Toni Day, president of Toni Tours Inc. in Levittown, New York. If you are headed to a cruise ship or foreign destination, pack some Band-Aids, aspirin, decongestants and Imodium, too, says Travelstore owner Cathy Udovch in Irvine, California. “Cruise ship medical facilities charge an arm and a leg, and trying to negotiate a pharmacy in another country can be daunting.”

7. Take a picture. 
Carry a photo of your passport in case you lose the original when you travel abroad. And if you are traveling with children, take a picture of them in the morning just in case you get separated and others have to help you look for them, suggests Kelley Austin, owner of a Cruise Planners franchise in Navasota, Texas.

8. Remember to have fun. 
“If you make a jam-packed schedule, it won’t feel like a vacation. Take time to breathe and let things happen on their own,” suggests Ashley Bennington, a mother of four kids under 12, at JCo Travel LLC in Rochester, New York. “Some of the best memories are made when you are doing nothing but being together.” At Go Away Often Travel in Nanuet, New York, Memory Creator Scott Walters puts it succinctly: “Lower your expectations. Expect delays, meltdowns and crowds. Pack your patience. Know that in most cases, if you miss something, it will be there next time.”

By Cheryl Rosen, Travel Market Report
Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more
For more cruise news and articles go to https://www.cruisecrazies.com

Don't wait till the last minute to book

Travel agent Marni Becker, Director of Cruise Sales for Protravel International in New York City, says that depending upon where you wish to travel—Alaska? Mediterranean? Caribbean? Baltic?—there is still some availability, but that the most popular itineraries, ships, and cabin categories fill up early. You'll want to act fast if you want to book for travel this June through August. You still have time to book a summer cruise, she says, but, depending on the line, "you may not get that mid-ship verandah or suite." Think outside the box with these little-known cruises even better than the Bahamas.

Don't fly in the same day you set sail

"Get your vacation started at least one day before your cruise by booking a hotel room near the ship," suggests Christy Scannell, a Dream Vacations franchise owner from California. "That way you don't have to sweat out possible flight delays or traffic jams that could hamper getting to the pier on time. Instead, you can enjoy a restful morning and then make your way to the ship refreshed, relaxed and ready to enjoy your cruise." Avoid these other 16 airport mistakes to know before your next flight.

Plan your excursions in advance

You have only one day to see most ports, even if, like Florence and Rome, they're incredibly rich and interesting. That means you won't want to waste time coming up with a game plan on the ground. Instead, pick up guide books or do some online research to determine the options and what you'd be most excited about seeing. "Figure out what you want to see in each port before you leave home," Becker advises. "That will save you time and hassle during your cruise." It will also ensure that you get to hit the highlights at each destination. Here are tips for picking the best cruise based on your travel goals.

Plan your sea days as well as your port days

Cruise ship decks can really fill up on sunny sea days, but many ships have serene alternative spaces that you can book. "You are likely to see a lot of children on summer cruises, says Scannell. "For a more peaceful day on deck, look for the ship's adults-only areas. For example, Princess Cruises has The Sanctuary, where for a nominal fee you get a luxury lounge chair, beverage service, and soothing music."

Bring everything you need for the first day in your carry-on

On the first day of a cruise, you never know exactly what time your luggage will be delivered to your room. "Be sure to pack your flip-flops and bathing suit in your carry-on bag," suggets Madson. "This way, as soon as you board the ship, you can start enjoying the pool even before your cabin is ready or your luggage gets delivered." Don't miss these other 17 travel hacks that make cruises easier.

By Sherri Eisenberg, Reader's Digest
Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more
For more cruise news and articles go to https://www.cruisecrazies.com

For anyone who’s enjoyed the pleasures of cruise travel, they’ll know that there are a few items that should always be packed in order to make the trip as enjoyable, memorable and relaxing as possible.

Although mainstream cruise lines allow a little leeway in terms of how much we can take on board, it can still be a struggle. So here’s a few essential items that can save you space whilst maximising your enjoyment.

Most cruise ships have swimming pools, so be sure to take some hanging clips with you so that you can hang your swimsuits out to dry in the shower. And regardless of what sized bags you have, always be sure to roll your clothes as it gives you more space and limits the amount of creasing that your clothes receive.

And don’t forget to take a small pool bag so that that your books and smartphones don’t get splashed whilst poolside. Similarly, taking a few plastic ziplock bags means that you can take a few snacks from the buffet for a late-night feast!

Travelling around different countries means that we can often have plenty of passports, itineraries and documents to carry with us. So be sure to take a photograph of all of your important documents and print it off so that you have all of the relevant information should you misplace your wallet.

Getting a decent power extension lead for your cabin is also essential for making sure that your cameras, iPods, eReaders and smartphones are all fully charged so that you can relax in style.

And smartphones are a real life-saver on a long cruise, as they’ll not only allow you to show off your sunbathing selfies to the family back home, but they’ll also allow you to claim your sign-up bonus from Lucky Nugget Casino and play glamorous casino games like roulette from your bunk - much more luxurious than those noisy slot machines that some cruise ships have on board!

Other items that can make your cabin feel a little more glamorous include bringing a little night-light or even a few fake tealight candles to spare you the unpleasant atmosphere that the overhead artificial lights create.

And finally, one of the biggest challenges is working out what to put in your carry on luggage and what to put in the hold. So the best bet is to put at least two or three days worth of essential clothes in your carry-on luggage just in case either goes astray so that you can enjoy those online casino games without too much stress!

Travelers with knee, hip or other joint replacements have another reason to hate flying: airport security. 

When being discharged from the hospital last December after a total knee replacement, one important piece of advice was missing from the pile of recovery plan papers I received from the staff, that is - how to get through airport security without setting off the alarm and the resulting embarrassing pat-down, both of which have happened to me at one time or another in the months since my surgery. A member of airport security in Boston recently offered me some helpful advice which I hope will assist other "bionic" travelers at the airport.

There used to be a time when the doctor would give you a note to show at airport security making them aware of your joint hardware. This is no longer the case, as TSA won't accept it as evidence of body metal. In fact most physicians rarely bother to offer a note. Whether you have a note from your doctor or even display your surgical scar to the security agent makes no difference. When you pass through the metal detector, the alarm will sound, and you will require a full and thorough pat-down (VERY thorough, if you get my drift). To avoid humiliation, try the following tricks:

• If there is the option for a full body scanner, choose it, as it will be much easier. There is no need to announce your artificial joint to security personnel. While metal will still be detected, the scanner will clearly show that the metal is in the bone.
• If a full body scanner is not available, be sure to tell a security agent that you have joint hardware BEFORE going through the metal detector. They may still direct you through the machine or they may direct you to another area for further screening. Either way, any resulting wand detector, frisk or light pat down will most likely be minimal and less intrusive.
• In the unlikely event you still find yourself undergoing a full pat down, ask for a privacy screening and assert your preference for a male or female screener. 

Patients undergoing joint replacement have enough issues to worry about. Airport security shouldn't be one of them.

Article by Jan N., CruiseCrazies Member and Authorized Agent - Seven Sea Journeys

Second in a series by Travel Pulse

In the first of an ocean Cruising 101 series, we outlined what to consider to choose a cruise line or brand best suited to your personality and budget, but that’s only part of the picture. Within each cruise line there can be up to 25 individual ships, like in Carnival Cruise Line’s expansive fleet, in which to select from.

Here are some additional guidelines to point you in the right direction.

In regards to a specific ship selection, the things you’ll want to primarily focus on are vessel size and capacity, its modernity and the specific features and style onboard. Of course, fleets are ever changing as new ships come online and older ones are transitioned out, so be sure to do your research.

Size

The size of a ship is generally and indicator of its capacity and class. Some cruise lines have only one class of ship – that is a single design or at least basic layout usually repeated as several sister ships – like Viking Ocean Cruises’ new Venice-class ships, the identical 930-guest Viking Star and Viking Sea. Royal Caribbean International, on the other hand, has 8 classes of ships, ranging in size from the one 1,840-passenger Empress of the Seas Empress-class ship to the three over 6,000-passenger Oasis-class ones led by the largest cruise ship in the world, the Harmony of the Seas.

Needless to say, by capacity alone, you are likely to have a very different experience cruising together with several hundred passengers or less versus thousands.

Modernity

More often than not, the size of the ship is an indicator of its age as well. Generally, the larger ships are also the newer ones, but some new ones like Viking’s are trending smaller.

While a small ship is not likely to have all the bells and whistles of a larger one, older ones are not necessarily passé. In order for cruise line’s to sustain interest in their existing fleets, they have spent million of dollars updating them over the years to be as consistent across the board as their size will allow.

Amenities

Of course, a larger ship will spatially be able to accommodate a greater list of features which are sure to attract those looking for the most to do, but less can be more if you prefer a classic relaxed atmosphere focused more on the destination than elaborate onboard attractions.

Again, it comes down to which feature set best suits your personality. Regardless of their overall size, one thing that is more common on newer ships are more comfortable private accommodations, namely larger bathrooms and showers.

Style

If there’s one last thing to consider, it’s specific style. Sister ships within a class can often be identical from one vessel to the next, but subtle to obvious differences can also exist. The best thing to look at are the deck plans for each ship to see if any particular layout is more to your liking. Also, photos and videos of each ship will show off the aesthetic of each. Carnival Cruise Line ships, for instance, vary greatly in their theme.

Article Courtesy Travel Pulse and Seven Sea Journeys/News 

(1st of a Series, by Travel Pulse)

For cruising veterans, it may seem obvious how to choose the best cruise line for your vacation, but for newbies, it’s the crucial first step and begins by asking the right questions.

To start, ask: What is my budget and what is my traveling personality?

There are four main categories of cruise line quality increasing in cost in order of standard ones, premium ones, upscale ones and luxury ones, and in each category, there are a number of different lifestyles to be expected onboard each individual line.

The guidelines below are merely a loose primer, that for the sake of this exercise excludes boutique and adventure lines, and researching those brands in your budget more extensively will point you to the one best suited to your tastes.

Standard

Mainstream cruise brands like Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean International fit into the standard quality category, and while many are similar, they do each have their own personalities that may or may not match your own. Carnival, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean are fun casual options with MSC Cruises and Princess Cruises being a bit more refined.

Premium

Celebrity Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line and arguably Disney Cruise Line make up the premium category of cruise brands for offering a step up in overall quality of service, dining and more. Of course, Disney is going to be more family-friendly whereas Cunard will be far more formal and traditional. Meanwhile, Celebrity and Holland America are both known for great cuisine.

Upscale

For an upscale experience, the likes of Azamara Club Cruises, Oceania Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises near luxury quality for a lower price and are thus known for offering a fantastic value. Viking is raising the bar for this category overall while Oceania is the leader in fine dining and Azamara excels in entertainment.

Luxury

Then luxury brands like Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises lead the pack as the best of the best. All-inclusive is the name of the game onboard these, which are altogether very similar, with Regent perhaps being the most inclusive of the bunch.

Destinations

Another question to ask: where do you want to go?

Not all cruise lines go to every desired port of call, or at least not with regular frequency. Upscale and luxury lines have smaller fleets and spread their ships around internationally, and standard and premium lines usually follow seasonal deployments in regions such as Alaska, Canada/New England and Europe while often having a year-round presence in the Caribbean. Plus, it’s good to remember that specific destinations affect fares as well. For example, Alaska commands a premium price that can tip the scales of perceived cruise line value.

Companions

One last question to ask is: Who will you be traveling with? 

An elderly couple that might ordinarily sail on a luxury line might be better off on Norwegian Cruise Line when with their children and grandchildren. That way they can stay in the line’s luxurious Haven ship-within-a-ship complex while the younger generations are happily tended to in less-expensive stateroom categories.

Sadly, your cruise has come to an end, and its time to disembark the ship. As the process is comparable to everyone in a sold-out hotel checking out on the very same morning, it can be a busy and complicated one. However, weve gathered seven tips to make it all that much easier.

Dont Book a Flight Too Early

When arranging your flights to and from a cruise long before first boarding, its important to not book your return airfare too early on the day of disembarkation. Just because your ship may be scheduled to arrive in its final port at say 7 a.m. doesnt necessarily mean youll be able to get off right away and transfer to the airport in time for an early morning departure. In fact, the ship still needs to clear customs, and the crew needs to begin offloading passenger luggage. Usually, its not advised to book a flight before 11 a.m., and unexpected delays can make an afternoon one a safer bet.

Verify Your Account Statement Ahead of Time

Final account statements are delivered to guest cabins late on the final night of the cruise or early morning on the day of departure. To avoid any surprise charges and a need to resolve them at an overrun reception desk at the last minute, its best to get a printout beforehand to confirm that everything looks as it should, particularly if you need to settle your account should a credit card not already be on file.

Put Out Enough Clothes the Night Before

In order to expedite luggage offloading, guests are asked to place their luggage outside the night before disembarkation so that the crew can have it ready pier-side before you leave the ship. Of course, that means you will be without the bulk of your belongings on that morning. It may seem obvious, but its inevitably a classic mistake that some passengers still do not set aside the next days clothes before placing their suitcases outside their stateroom. Dont forget or you will be without apparel, short of a bathrobe, crossing the gangplank.

Mind Your Luggage Tag Color

Most cruise lines assign luggage tags with specific colors on them to stagger the flow of guests departing the ship. That is your luggage will be awaiting you, stored in a section of the port facility that matches the time you are scheduled to disembark. The color group order is determined by the travel arrangements that you share with the cruise line to prioritize those on earlier flights. Times are usually estimated, however. So, be sure to listen for when your group is called over the PA system to know for sure when you are free to disembark. Otherwise, premature lobby crowding ensues.

Take Off Your Own Luggage

Alternatively, if you desire to get off sooner than later and are independent and able-bodied enough to handle your own suitcases, you can often opt to disembark first with a self-assist group. While this option is perhaps physically less convenient, as the path off the ship can be a longer one than expected to roll off your own luggage, its usually the best for ensuring the fastest disembarkation should that be required.

First Take the Elevator Up to Go Down

Whether you are taking off all of your own luggage or just your carry-on bags, elevators heading down to the gangway are frequently full with other passengers and their belongings. Especially if you have a lot of suitcases with you, a trick that works well is to call an emptier elevator up before descending back down.

Consider Cruise Lines with Simpler Disembarkation

For decades, most cruise lines have followed the system of group assignments to schedule guest departures spread out during the morning, the result of which can sometimes become complicated if delays change the priority dynamic. Disney Cruise Line instead simplifies it all by dropping a specific schedule besides a first self-help group. And you know what? It works seamlessly. Guests know when they need to be off by at the latest, they will organically depart evenly as travel dictates. It would sure be nice if other cruise lines adopted this model accordingly.

Article Courtesy Travel Pulse and Seven Sea Journeys/News

Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more.

Please visit CruiseCrazies.com for more cruise news & articles.

Featured photo credit: Travel Pulse/Thinkstock

When you buy a cruise your travel agent or the cruise line will likely give you a pitch to buy cruise insurance to cover your vacation. The agent gets commissioned, and cruise lines view insurance as a profit area. A big selling point will likely be that you're making an investment in your cruise vacation and will want to protect that investment should you need to cancel. Without insurance, you'll be hit with a huge cancellation penalty and may not get any money back at all.

If you're fine with taking a chance, just say no to the sales pitch.

But if you're considering insurance, it pays to look at what's covered and what's not and to make sure what you're getting from the cruise line is the best deal. You may be better off going with a third-party travel insurance company. "You may find a more comprehensive policy for a cheaper price," said Megan Singh, spokeswoman for Squaremouth, a website where you can compare travel insurance products from dozens of providers. "It isn't always in the best interest of the traveler to go with the cruise line's policy."

Travel insurance policies will typically cost you from 4% to 10% of your total trip cost – so you lay out $100 to $250, based on a $2,500 cruise vacation. If you go with the cruise line policy, you are opting for the cruise line's set pricing structure, which may be on the high side. Most people buy bundled policies, and that's what cruise lines sell. But what's in that bundle may vary, and the cruise line's insurance product may not be the most comprehensive on the market for the price.

The most common travel insurance policies combine coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. There might also be a set amount of death and dismemberment insurance. One thing not in cruise line policies, but is available when you buy other travel insurance policies, is protection should a cruise line suddenly go out of business, Singh said.

When looking at trip cancellation and trip disruption insurance, you should carefully read the fine print in terms of what timeline may apply – does the insurance kick in after 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours or another amount of time? You'll also want to look at whether or not a cruise line's policy will give you cash back or whether the reimbursement is in the form of credit for a future cruise. Squaremouth lets you choose from a list of coverage options, but does not generally recommend you buy the type of insurance that allows you to cancel for any reason, Singh said. That's because it's the most expensive insurance and has some drawbacks – including that you can't usually cancel last minute.

Another misnomer is that emergency evacuation means you'll be airlifted wherever you say. It doesn't. "If you get ill at a port in Mexico you would be taken to a hospital in Mexico," Singh said. Those who want medical evacuation coverage may want to look at plans offered by Medjet Assist, which will transport you to a location of your choice.

You can dismiss travel insurance for your cruise as a waste of money, and for some people that's true. But there are circumstances where people will want to be insured including if you or a close relative has a medical condition that could flare up, if you're cruising in hurricane season or caught in a geopolitical crisis, or if you're not covered internationally for medical insurance.

But again, that's where reading the small print comes in. Cruise line policies tend not to apply to pre-existing conditions. The cruise line policies also won't cover you for any air tickets you purchase on your own (not through the cruise line). Consider too that your homeowner's policy, health insurance and credit cards may already cover you in some areas – meaning the cruise line's bundled plan may provide coverage you already have.

On the plus side, if you buy from the cruise line you can pay for your insurance at the same time that you pony up for your cruise fare.

By Fran Golden, Special for USA TODAY

For more cruise news & articles go to http://www.cruisecrazies.com/index.html

Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more

http://www.cruisecrazies.com

In the excitement of getting ready to depart for vacation, it's easy to overlook trip-related responsibilities that should be completed before leaving the house. Some of these chores make travel easier, and some are absolutely necessary. Don't leave home without checking the following list:

1. Charge your devices. Be sure your phone, reader, tablet, laptop, camera batteries and any other device you can't do without are fully charged before you leave. You don't want to risk the need to make or receive an important call or message on route only to find your gadget is dead. While you're at it, don't forget to pack the appropriate power cords.

2. Upload Media to Your Electronic Gadgets. Load your smartphone or tablet with your favorite music, books and movies to enjoy while you're in flight, in line or during downtime. Update your contacts, too, so you'll be able to easily reach people and places while traveling.

3. Make sure your meds are packed - in your carry-on bag! You don't want to be hundreds of miles from home to discover you forgot your meds or, even worse, you packed your meds in your checked luggage, which has gotten lost in transit. Your life depends on it!

4. Check the weather forecast for home and destination. Knowing what Mother Nature has in store for your trip will help you in deciding what to wear, what to pack and what activities to plan. A smartphone weather app will be very useful wherever you are during your trip.

5. Be sure you have all your documents. Use cloud-based services to save electronic copies, but also have hard copies of the most important docs. This includes boarding documents, itinerary, travel confirmations and, above all, your government ID. You're not going to board that internationally-bound cruise ship or flight without your passport.

6. Notify your bank of your travel plans. Let your credit card company and your banks know when and where you will be to avoid any security holds being placed on your accounts while you're traveling.

7. Unplug your home appliances. By pulling the plugs on your appliances (think TV, toaster, computers, etc.), you'll prevent an electrical surge or fire from damaging your equipment or home and save on energy costs in the process.

8. Stop deliveries. Piles of uncollected mail and unread newspapers are a sure fire way to invite thieves to rob your house. Have it held or have a trusted neighbor pick it up for you.

9. Hire a house sitter and pet sitter. Responsible teens and college kids are always looking for ways to earn money. Ask a trustworthy kid or neighbor watch your house for you while you're away. This is especially necessary if you have pets in residence. If you're not boarding your pets, make sure someone is taking care of Spot or Fluffy.

10. Check your flight status. You don't want to wait until you get to the airport to find that your flight has been delayed a few hours or canceled altogether. Download your airline's app or one of several other handy flight checkers to monitor your flight status before you leave home.

11. Photograph your luggage and its contents. In the event your luggage is lost or stolen, you'll have a record of what you packed and its value. This goes for your carry-on bag, too.

12. Clean out the fridge and take out the trash. The last thing you want when arriving home from a week or two in paradise is to face a house smelling like a landfill and a fridge full of festering garbage.

Pleasant journeys!

By Janice Neves, CruiseCrazies Contributor & Authorized Agent

Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more.

Please visit CruiseCrazies.com for more cruise news & articles.

Featured photo credit: Dollar Photo Club