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First Time Cruisers

Is Virgin Voyages the Right Cruise Line for you?

If you're like me and you've yet to try Virgin Voyages, but you keep seeing them all over your Instagram. You might be wondering: Is Virgin Voyages right for me? Well, let's figure this out together.
Cruising Ducks @owenplaces Owen Places

WTF Are Cruising Ducks? Discover a Unique Cruise Tradition

If you’ve ever set sail on a cruise, you might have come across something unexpected: little rubber ducks tucked away in unexpected places around the ship. This delightful phenomenon, known as "Cruising Ducks," is one of those iykyk sort of things in the cruise industry.
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

10 Things to Know Before Your Costa Smeralda Cruise: Tips & Advice

I went into this cruise half uneducated, half prepared to be disappointed due to the raging reviews on CruiseCritic. So I actually wanted to put together a no nonsense list of 10 things I think everyone should know before booking or cruising onboard Costa Smeralda.
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!
Costa Smeralda @owenplaces Owen Places

Costa Smeralda: Daring to Take a Chance on the Worst Cruise

I've just booked on the Cruise Critics worst rated cruise line, Costa Cruises, and on the worst rated ship, Costa Smeralda. Am i going to regret this?
Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas Price @owenplaces Owen Places

7 Night Oasis of the Seas Cruise: Complete Price Breakdown

Interested in cruising onboard Oasis of the Seas? Wondering if it'll be worth the money? Well, in this blog post I'll cover how much I paid for a 7 night Med cruise with Royal Caribbean onboard Oasis of the Seas. I'll cover the initial cost of the cruise, plus any hidden charges or service uplifts.
@owenplaces Owen Places

Your Ultimate Guide to Cruising: Everything to Expect on a Cruise

Imagine waking up to the sight of the sun rising over the open sea, a fresh breeze filling your lungs as you step onto your private balcony. This is just the beginning of what awaits you on a cruise—a floating paradise where every day offers new adventures and endless opportunities for relaxation. Like the sound of it? Here's our guide on everything to expect on a cruise.
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Embarking on your first cruise is an exciting yet potentially overwhelming experience. I aim to demystify maritime adventures, providing a comprehensive guide to ensure your inaugural cruise is spectacular.

Begin your journey with a solid foundation by exploring the fundamentals of cruising through my ‘Cruising 101’ series. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler looking to deepen your cruise knowledge or a novice eager to grasp basics, this category serves as a reliable compass. Here, you’ll find essential information, industry trends, and insider tips designed to elevate your understanding of cruising – from ship types to making the most of onboard activities.

Navigating the seas of cruise wisdom starts with understanding essentials. Learn about cruise ship amenities, cabin selection tips, and efficient packing. Discover how to make the most of time ashore during port visits and gain insights into cruise etiquette for a seamless and enjoyable experience.

As a beginner, understanding diverse cruise options is key. From ocean cruises to river cruises, explore nuances that make each type unique. Delve into considerations for selecting the right cruise line and itinerary, ensuring preferences align with the overall experience sought.

Beyond logistics, my ‘Cruising 101’ delves into onboard life nuances. Gain insights into dining options, entertainment choices, and confidently participate in onboard activities. Whether interested in themed cruises, family-friendly options, or solo adventures, we provide tailored advice to suit preferences.

Embark on your cruise adventure armed with knowledge, confidence, and excitement. With my comprehensive cruise tips for beginners, the vast seas of maritime exploration await your discovery. Bon voyage!