Owen Places @owenplaces
@owenplaces Owen Places Logo

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.

Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas Price @owenplaces Owen Places

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

I’ve just cruised onboard Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas for 7 nights out of Barcelona, Spain. Want to know my review? Read on!
Posts by 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

Virtual Balcony onboard Anthem of the Seas - @owenplaces Owen Places - Royal Caribbean

Everything You Need to Know About Inside Cabins: A Complete Guide

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).