Cruise Tips | Cruise Advice & Articles by Cruise Critic

Deals

A True Icon! Check Out Photos of the New Spaces on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas

See photos of the new spaces on Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world from Royal Caribbean.

Recent Cruise Articles

From Columbia to Kerala: 13 New Cruise Itineraries You Have to Try in 2025

From the far reaches of the Arctic to Tibet, these are the remarkable new itineraries you have to try in 2025.

17 Must-Visit Bars in Mexico for Party-Loving Cruisers

Looking to explore the best bars in Mexico on your next cruise? Here are the must-visit bars on both coasts of Mexico, from Cancun to Puerto Vallarta & more.

Decoding Your Cruise Bill: When and How Often Should You Check It?

From when and how often you should check it to tips and advice on decoding your cruise bill.

8 Ways to Store More Things in Your Cabin

From packing smart to using magnetic door hooks in your cruise ship room, by using some creative thinking, you'll be amazed at how much you can fit into your cabin.

The 9 Best Packing Cubes and Organizers for Cruise Travel

Packing cubes are an often underrated member of the travel gear contingent, but they are mighty. Learn more about packing cubes from our cruise experts.

What Is a Tender Boat on a Cruise? What Is a Tender Port?

If docking isn't an option for a cruise ship, it will anchor offshore and use smaller boats called tenders. Here's what to know about tender boats and ports.

What It’s Like to Travel to Egypt Now: Things Cruise Lines Do to Make You Less Anxious

What it's like to travel to Egypt's Nile River on a cruise right now -- and the precautions you and cruise lines take to make you feel less anxious.

Editors' Recommendation

Adam Coulter - Cruise Critic U.K. Executive Editor

10 Changes to the Cruise Industry That Made Things Better Than Before

U.K. Executive EditorAdam Coulter

Last updatedMay 9, 2024

Read time6 min read

Editors' Recommendation

10 Best Cruise Destinations for Hot Air Balloon Rides

ContributorJason Frye

Last updatedMar 4, 2024

Read time6 min read

11 Cruise Ports That Require Tendering

From St. Barts to Santorini, here's a guide on 11 ports where you can expect to take a tender boat from your ship to shore.

The Best Spring 2025 Repositioning Cruises

Looking for a unique fall getaway? These 2025 repositioning cruises fit the bill.

Tamarind on Holland America (Plus Menu)

One of our five favorite sushi restaurants at sea, Tamarind on Holland America is the place to go for fresh sushi, sashimi and other Pan-Asian delicacies. The eclectic venue blends flavors from Southeast Asia, China and Japan and is open for both lunch and dinner. Come early, and enjoy pre-dinner drinks at its similarly themed cocktail bar.

New Cruise Ships on Order

These are the new cruise ships on order for 2024 and beyond. See which new cruise ships are launching next!

Pinnacle Grill on Holland America (Plus Menu)

Where do you go for juicy steak, fresh seafood and an intimate dining experience on a Holland America cruise? Pinnacle Grill, the line's Pacific Northwest-inspired steakhouse, is the ultimate date night for those craving everything from filet mignon to king crab legs.

Pacific West Coast Cruises are Booming: Here’s Why and the Best Ones to Book

An increasing number of cruise lines are deploying ships to the Pacific West Coast. We look at why - and how you can snag the one to suit you.

I Spent 6 Days on Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Luxury Ship Evrima and I Might Be Spoiled for Life. Here’s Why

Want to really feel spoiled at sea? Try a Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection cruise. Here's why the ship offers a complete luxury experience.

Can I Cruise While Pregnant? What You Need to Know

Are you considering taking a cruise while pregnant? We've assembled the ultimate guide to going on a cruise while pregnant to ease your mind & decision-making.

I Sailed a Ship that Failed a CDC Health Inspection and Survived: Here's What It Was Like.

Should you sail on a cruise ship if it fails a CDC health inspection? I did -- and survived. Here's what that score means.

College Party Cruises: What You Need to Know About Spring Break Sailings

Thinking about a spring break cruise? Here is our breakdown of college party cruises, from popular cruise lines and destinations to top tips and beyond.

The 9 Best Cruise Ship Whiskey Bars

If your tipple of choice is a wee dram or an Old Fashioned, you'll want to know about these nine best whiskey bars at sea.

7 Spring Break Cruise Tips for All Types of Travelers

Curious about the pros and cons, policies and expectations of cruise travel during spring break? Here's what to know about cruising during school vacation.

How To Enjoy Your Cruise if Other Passengers Are Behaving Badly

Here is our best advice to help you make the most of your vacation, no matter what's happening around you.

7 Cruise Gifts Any Cruise Lover Will Adore

A cruise-themed gift is a thoughtful nod for the sailors in your life obsessed with sunset dinners, salty breezes and far-flung ports. Find recommendations from our experts.

Hanukkah and Christmas Cruises: A Guide to Onboard Festivities

Your complete guide to Hanukkah and Christmas celebrations on cruise ships. Find out what cruise lines are doing to celebrate.

Single Supplements on Cruise Ships: A Brief Guide

What exactly is a single supplement on a cruise ship? We breakdown this fee, including what it is and what this fee looks like across all cruise lines.

A Guide to Fall Foliage Hudson River Cruises

New York's Hudson River Valley is one of the best places to see dazzling fall foliage. Here's everything you need to know about cruising this New York river.

Leaf Peeping and Spooky Landmarks: Why a Hudson River Cruise is More Than a Dinner Cruise

A Hudson River cruise is more than just a dinner cruise around New York Harbor. Sail upstate to take in haunted mansions, spooky sites and brilliant fall foliage in October.

A Guide to Expedition Cruises: Top Regions, Cruise Lines and More

If you think expedition cruising is something you'd like, you may be wondering what the best cruising regions are. Here's our guide to expedition cruises.

Cultural Contrasts on a Viking River Voyage

Traveling through the heart of Europe with Viking brings alive the rich array of cultural flavors and customs that have helped to shape the unique identity of each country on this continent.

High and Low Water Levels: What to Expect on a Viking River Cruise

All you need to know about water levels and why Viking is the best river cruise line to choose when it comes to managing and minimizing any impact the weather might have on a sailing.

Is It Safe to Cruise the Nile River?

Nile River cruises are great for seeing many of Egypt's highlights, but are they safe? Here's what you need to know about cruising the Nile River safely.

16 Essential Baby Supplies When You Cruise with an Infant

Cruising with a baby? Our experts share the 16 most essential baby supplies you'll need on a cruise, from foldable and portable strollers to toys and more.

Packing for Kids on a Cruise: A Cruise Essentials List

Pack the right gear for your family cruise to prevent complaints about boredom and even tantrums. Here's our list of must-haves for cruising with kids.

Which Sailing Cruise Should You Take? Caribbean vs. Mediterranean

Small sailing cruises take place in both the Caribbean or Mediterranean -- but which is right for you? We break it down.

What You Need to Know about Cruising Australia's Kimberley Region

Everything you need to know as you plan a cruise to Australia's remote Kimberley region.

What Should I Wear on a Cruise? A Guide to Cruise Line Dress Codes

Cruise line dress codes can be confusing, from casual dress codes to elegant and formal nights. We've unpacked the dress code onboard every major cruise line.

A Journey Across Lake, River and Sea with Ponant: Is This the Most Interesting Itinerary in North America?

Sailing from Toronto to Boston, French cruise company Ponant offers an interesting extension of the tried-and-true Canada & New England cruise itineraries.

10 Best Cruise Lines for Weddings

Thinking about a cruise wedding? We've broken down prices, packages and services to help you decide which of the 10 best lines is right for your wedding on a cruise.

9 Best Places to Visit on a Fall Foliage Cruise to New England/Canada

For those who take their fall foliage cruises seriously, we offer suggestions on some of the best ports of call to visit to experience autumn's annual ritual at its peak.

A Cruiser’s Medical Kit: Packing Prescription Drugs, OTC Medications and What to Leave at Home

What medications should you bring on a cruise? Our guide explains what prescription drugs & over-the-counter medications you should bring -- and which to not.

Pet Friendly Cruises: A Guide to Cruises that Allow Dogs and Cats

Looking for pet-friendly cruises or wondering, "Can you take your dog on a cruise?" We've broken down which cruises are pet-friendly to help you figure it out.

11 Unique Theme Cruises You Should Know About

Looking for a cruise centered around your personal interest? Discover these 11 unique theme cruises, ranging from nude cruises to motorcycle cruises & beyond.

Get special cruise deals, expert advice, insider tips and more.By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.