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.

Posts by Cruise Line
norwegian viva @owenplaces Owen Places

10 Reasons to cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line

Greek Isles Cruise onboard Norwegian Viva @owenplaces Owen Places

How does Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Free at Sea” promotion work?

Greek Isles Cruise onboard Norwegian Viva @owenplaces Owen Places

Greek Isles Cruise on Norwegian Viva: My Full Itinerary Review

Travel agent @owenplaces Owen Places

Booking with a Cruise Agent: What You Need to Know

MSC Virtuosa @owenplaces Owen Places

A Guide on Cruising from the UK: Cruising Made Easy

SPF 50 @owenplaces Owen Places

What Skincare to Bring on an Cruise: Packing Made Easy

Regent Seven Seas @owenplaces Owen Places

Embark on the Ultimate Luxury: Your Foolproof Guide to Six-Star Cruising

cruises @owenplaces Owen Places

The big difference between Italian-Style Cruising and American-Style

costa cruises @owenplaces Owen Places

Costa Cruises – Vacation of a lifetime or Nightmare at Sea?

icon of the seas @owenplaces Owen Places

Your new adventure: 10 Reasons to cruise with Royal Caribbean

Lisbon portugal @owenplaces Owen Places

Top Destinations for First Time Cruisers: Your Ultimate Guide

Santorini Greece @owenplaces Owen Places

Ultimate Packing Guide for a Greek Isles Cruise: Everything You Need to Know

Alaska whale - @owenplaces Owen Places

What to Bring on an Alaskan Cruise: Packing Made Easy

Norwegian Fjords Cruise - @owenplaces Owen Places

Ultimate Packing Guide for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise: Everything You Need to Know

Virgin Voyages - @owenplaces Owen Places

Leave the kids behind – Adult-Only Cruising: A Complete Guide

MSC Yacht Club - @owenplaces Owen Places

Beginners Guide to Cruise Gratuities: What You Need to Know

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).