Cruise Guides

Everything You Need to Know about Cruises

So, you’re cruise-curious. Maybe you’ve seen some Instagram photos of cocktails at sea, big afts, or infinity pools that blend into the horizon. Or maybe you just want a holiday where someone else takes care of the logistics. Whatever brought you here, welcome, this guide is for you.

Whether you’ve never stepped foot on a cruise ship or you’re still deciding if the whole “floating hotel” thing is your vibe, this post breaks it all down in plain English.

Total newbie? Start here!

My Full, Honest Experience of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas

I've just cruised on the Royal Caribbean ship, Oasis of the Seas for 7 nights out of Barcelona, Spain. Want to know the good, the bad, and the ugly? Read on!
Posts by Cruise Line

Cruising FAQs

What's Included on a cruise?

✅ Typically Included:

  • Your cabin (aka stateroom)
  • Meals in main dining areas & buffets
  • Entertainment (theatre shows, live music, trivia, etc.)
  • Pools, hot tubs, and basic fitness centre
  • Stops at ports (though not excursions)

🚫 Often NOT Included:

  • Alcohol and sodas (but all inclusive packages are usually available to purchase)
  • Up charge restaurants / speciality dining options
  • Shore excursions
  • Gratuities / Tips / Services charges (some cruise lines *require* you to pay these)
  • Wi-Fi / Internet

It varies wildly, but here’s a rough idea for a 7-night cruise:

  • Budget: £400–£700 per person (inside cabin, basic line like MSC or Carnival)
  • Mid-Range: £800–£1,500 per person (balcony room, mainstream line like Royal or Celebrity)
  • Luxury: £2,000+ per person

Factor in:

  • Flights to/from the port
  • Onboard spending
  • Excursions
  • Tips
  • Travel insurance
  • Families – Most ships cater brilliantly to kids, with clubs and waterslides.
  • Couples – Romantic getaways or honeymoons at sea.
  • Solo Travellers – Some lines offer solo cabins and events.
  • Older Adults – Relaxing pace, cultural excursions, and community.
  • Young Adults – Especially on newer, trendier ships (like Virgin or Norwegian).
Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas in Labadee, Haiti

Royal Caribbean Cruise Excursions – Everything you need to know for 2025/2026

So you've just booked your Royal Caribbean cruise for 2025/2026 and now you're considering an excursion? This is your one-stop guide for all things Royal Caribbean Cruise Excursions.
Independence of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | Owen Places @owenplaces

Should you book Independence of the Seas in 2025?

Independence of the Seas was the first ship I ever sailed on! All the way back in 2019. But 6 years later, should you still consider her for your 2025 holiday?
Icon of the Seas Royal Caribbean @owenplaces Owen Places

Is Royal Caribbean LGBTQ+ Friendly? A Full Breakdown

Is Royal Caribbean LGBTQ+ friendly? We cover all aspects in this blog post today! Come found out.
Norwegian Star in Edinburgh, Scotland @owenplaces Owen Places

Cruising to Edinburgh? A Complete Visitor’s Guide for First-Timers

Cruising into Edinburgh? Consider this your go-to guide for getting from ship to city with ease. Whether you're joining an organised excursion or planning to explore on your own, everything you need to make the most of your day ashore is right here.
Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas @owenplaces Owen Places

5 of the Best Royal Caribbean Ships

Are you new to cruising and maybe want to give one of Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships a try?! You'll be making an amazing choice.
Costa Smeralda | Costa Cruises | Costa Toscana @owenplaces Owen Places

7 Night Dubai Costa Smeralda Cruise: Complete Price Breakdown

One of the biggest draws of my Costa Smeralda cruise was the price – it seemed incredibly affordable. But once you factor in flights, drinks, and tips… is it still such a bargain?
Costa Smeralda | Costa Cruises | Costa Toscana @owenplaces Owen Places

My Middle East Cruise on Costa Smeralda: A Full, Honest Review

I just disembarked from a 7-night Middle Eastern cruise aboard the Costa Smeralda. One Cruise Critic reviewer described it as their 'worst vacation ever,' but was it really that bad? Let’s take a closer look.
Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas @owenplaces Owen Places

A Full Tour of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas

Ever wanted to learn more about a cruise ship but just can't be bothered to read? Well, here's a realistic, unedited, A-Z visual tour of Royal Caribbean's mega-ship, Oasis of the Seas. All images, minimal words.
Cruise Magnets onboard Oasis of the Seas @owenplaces Owen Places

Surprising Cruise Tip: Bring Magnets – You’ll Be Glad You Did!

Looking for expert cruise hacks? Well here's one you don't want to forget... Bring magnets! Yep, you read that right. MAGNETS!