All posts by Amy Andrews
Is Your Cruise Ship Clean? Here’s How to Know for Sure
The cleanliness of your cruise ship might not be something you’d typically concern yourself with when embarking on a vacation but perhaps in addition to checking out the ship’s amenities, you should also review the ship’s Vessel Sanitation Program inspection report. Most common violations won’t kill you but they might make you feel icky and increase the chances that common illnesses could spread more easily among passengers.
Back to Basics
The Carnival Fantasy failed a federal Centers Read more [...]
Behind the Scenes: How Does a Cruise Ship Itinerary Get Put Together?
One of the best things about cruising is how easy it is to visit multiple ports of call without having to unpack your suitcase more than once. It seems so effortless. But is it really? There’s actually a lot that goes on behind the scenes when a cruise ship company plans an itinerary, and that planning starts many months, if not years, in advance.
A Delicate Balancing Act
A cruise line has to fine tune an itinerary so that all of its priorities are equally and satisfactorily met. That means Read more [...]
How to Manage a Packing Emergency on Your Cruise
Some people are born travelers. They know exactly what to pack, how to pack, and never worry at the end of their trip that everything won’t fit back into the suitcase. And then there are the rest of us. If you’re worried that you’ll have trouble getting everything home from your cruise--whether because of size or weight--here are a few tips to help you manage a last-minute packing emergency as you prepare to disembark from your cruise:
1. Be prepared.
When initially packing your suitcase Read more [...]
4 Reasons to Take a Chance with Your Cruise’s On-Board Health and Wellness Programs
Among the belly flop competitions, silent dance parties, and bingo games, many cruise ships also offer passengers the opportunity to attend various on-board health and wellness programs while at sea. It’s easy to blow off these events as “not for me” but there are a few great reasons to consider going to that brow bar event or fitness seminar. Read more [...]
When Rain Threatens Your Cruise Ship Excursion
One of the most fun parts of planning a cruise is deciding what excursions to book, like a day at the beach, strolling through local markets, visiting ruins and historic sites, or spending a day snorkeling and diving in nearby waters. But what happens when your excursion is rained out? Read more [...]
Why Choose a Cruise Line with a Private Island
As more of the big-name cruise lines arrange private island access for their Caribbean sailing guests, you might be wondering what the big draw is. After all, many of the cruises already visit ports of call where beach excursions are offered. Learn what these private island experiences offer you that ordinary excursions can't. Read more [...]