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.

AD BREAK
Ad break over

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
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

Cruise Ships in the Caribbean - @owenplaces Owen Places

First Time Cruisers? Here’s Everything 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).