Planning

After 20 cruises to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Mexican Riveria, I decided it was finally time to explore a cooler and more rugged region: Alaska. 

I knew it would be far different than sailing to the tropical Caribbean. I'd be trading in my flip-flops and sundresses for sweatshirts and jeans. In return, however, I'd be in the midst of jaw-dropping landscapes, sailing through dramatic fjords with snow-capped mountains, icebergs, stunning greenery, and more. 

When you book a cruise, you're often able to choose the specific cabin that you'll be staying in. From selecting the right category, deck, and location, there's a lot that needs to be taken into consideration before making any decisions. 

You don't have to convince a cruise enthusiast to book another cruise. In fact, there's a good chance they have multiple countdowns in their calendar! Because of their love of cruising, they've likely tried to persuade hesitant friends and family to take the leap. 

If weed has been legalized where you live, you're probably wondering whether you can bring it on your next cruise or not. Though it's legal in numerous states across the United States, marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, meaning that it's also prohibited on cruise ships since terminals are considered federal facilities. 

When planning a cruise to Alaska, many opt to sail during the warmer months of June and July. June, for instance, is when the summer rains are minimal, and it's light nearly all day long. It's also when many national park roads open, allowing you to venture to places like Denali. 

Many cruisers wonder when they should buy a drink package to get the best deal. Nobody wants to spend extra money on add-ons they could potentially score for less. 

Embarking on a cruise is a fun adventure that promises unforgettable memories and experiences. From the pristine beaches of the Caribbean and Bahamas to the rugged wilderness of Alaska, there are seemingly endless destinations to choose from, making cruising an easily accessible way to explore the world. 

Before you set sail, however, there are some things that you should be aware of in order to make the most of your cruise vacation. Planning ahead will help ensure that you have a smooth journey with no unexpected surprises. 

While most mainstream cruise lines include a wide range of amenities in their base fare, they're deliberately structured to cover essentials, allowing guests the flexibility to choose additional add-ons at their discretion.

When planning a cruise, many first-timers are curious as to what's included and what costs extra. Some experiences can help enhance the vacation; however, many rely on what's free (or included). 

While Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Tampa are the four most popular cruise ports in Florida, did you know you can also sail out of Jacksonville?

Although you may not have as many ship options compared to itineraries departing from South Florida, it is convenient for those who may not want to drive the extra five hours to Miami. Plus, since it's a smaller port, you will not have to deal with as much traffic.