Tag: CRUISE TIPS

Categories
Caribbean Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel

How to Select the Perfect Cruise Excursion- Insider Tips on Cruise Ports

beach, shoreline, coast

One of my favorite things about planning out my cruises is picking out my shore excursion(s).  There is an abundance of things to do and sometimes it can be hard to narrow it down to just one activity each port!  Selecting which cruise excursion is right for you, but we’ve outlined some of the best activities in the hottest ports of the Caribbean.

Swimming with Nurse Sharks at Shark and Ray Alley, Belize

Each port lends itself to different activities. For instance, Belize, Costa Maya, San Juan, and Cozumel are excellent for experiencing ancient cultures however, they are also great for outdoor adventure activities. 

Ports like St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Antigua are great for shopping and hitting the beach. 

Of course, there are some ports, like Grand Turk,  Amber Cove, Costa Maya, and Mahogany Bay where you really don’t even have to book an excursion because they been developed by Carnival.

What is a Cruise Excursion?

A cruise excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money. Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours.

How to Select the Perfect Cruise Excursion for YOU

Really, it all depends on your idea of fun. The great thing about cruise excursions is the fact there is literally something for everyone! I like to pick something adventurous and something cultural each cruise.

For the History Lovers

I’ve always been quite a bit of a history nerd so I really enjoy historic island tours and visits to Mayan ruins. In the past six cruises, I have visited 3 different sets of ruins and been on many island tours. I like doing island tours because you get to see a lot of the island/port, learn a bit of history and you still get time to shop and/or hit the beach.

Not all island tours are created equally though. I booked an island tour on Grand Turk and was really disappointed. The island doesn’t really have much to offer. I would have been much better off just staying at the port and enjoying the beach and pool area. However, islands like Antigua, Tortola, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas all offer incredible island tours that are full of rich history.

 

Xunantunich Ruins, Belize

Recommended Island Tours: Antigua, Tortola, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Bahamas and San Juan

Recommended Maya Ruins: Xunantunich, Chichen Itza, Tulum, Cahal Pech, Chacchoben

Ports where I don’t recommend island/city tours: Belize, Grand Turk, Mahogany Bay, Cozumel

Annaberg Plantation, St. John, USVI

For the Adventurers

Each cruise, I like to do something that scares me…. just a little. It’s a great opportunity to open myself up to new experiences, to conquer fears, and to try new things. I must admit, I have done some really, really cool things while traveling. I’ve zip lined, snorkeled with sharks and rays, explored caves in Mexico and Belize, gone off-roading, and been on high-speed boat rides.

Recommended Activities: Ziplining (anywhere!), Cave Tubing in Belize, 4×4 safari in Aruba (it was so amazing!), catamaran rides (anywhere!), Rio Secreto (Cozumel), snorkeling (Bonaire, St. Thomas, Belize, Grand Turk), and Sting Ray City (Grand Cayman), Swimming with Sharks and Rays (Belize).

Snorkeling in Bonaire

You may have noticed that I don’t always book tours. There are some ports that have been really well developed by Carnival. Rather than just having the usual Carnival stores, they have added special features such as wide sandy beaches (with amenities), pools, bars, and restaurants. In places like Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, Mahogany Bay, and Amber Cove it isn’t necessary to spend your money on an excursion. Whereas I strongly recommend booking something for Belize as Belize City itself has absolutely nothing to offer.

There are other ports where I don’t book tours but I either hit the local beaches or shop at the local shops. Ports, where this is totally doable, include Nassau, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Costa Maya, Cozumel, and Grand Turk. I hope this helps you get an idea of how I choose my shore excursions. I mix a little history, with a bit of adventure and outdoor activities to create the trip of a lifetime!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

 

Updated: 4/8/22

Categories
Caribbean Cruise Tips Cruise Travel

Where Should I Cruise To- Eastern vs. Western Caribbean

Are you asking yourself, “Where should I cruise to?” One of the first decisions you’ll have to make when booking a cruise is deciding where you should cruise to. There are tons of options scattered all throughout the Caribbean. From the Bahamas in the northeast all the way down to Aruba in the very southern Caribbean.

The Caribbean is generally split into three regions: Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean. Each region differs primatrily by the departure port, number of ports on your itinerary, and the length of your trip. For instance, if you’re interested in going to the Southern Caribbean, you’ll probably want to/need to leave from Miami or Puerto Rico.

Caribbean cruises can range from 2-10 days (and sometimes even longer!) depending on the cruise line, departure port, and itinerary. It can be overwhelming to pick the itinerary for your family especially if you’re a first-time cruiser.

Where Should I Cruise To?

God of the Winds Temple, Tulum

Western Caribbean

The Western Caribbean is a popular selection for first-time cruisers. The ports have a more exotic feel than those in the Eastern Caribbean and are a bit less glitsy. Western Caribbean cruises typically feature destinations such as Grand Turk, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Jamaica, or Costa Maya. The week-long cruises will often times visit Belize and Roatan, as well.

The Western Caribbean is perfect for adventurers, history buffs, and beach bums. This is where you’ll find the Maya ruins of Tulum, Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, Chichen Itza, as well as many others. Snorkeling and diving are also top-notch here, especially near Belize and Mexico where you’ll find the Blue Hole.

Other popular excursions include off-road ATV adventures, catamaran rides, ziplining, and other cultural experiences.

Western Caribbean cruises tend to be a bit more budget-friendly. Due to the distance between ach port, you’ll typically have at least 2 full sea days where you can relax, enjoy onboard activities, or recover from your active days in port.

These cruises typically depart from ports in Florida, Texas, and New Orleans. The itineraries typically have 3 or 4 stops and last 7 or 8 days.

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Eastern Caribbean

Eastern Caribbean cruises often feature ports such as San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Tortola, Grand Turk, and The Bahamas. Itineraries typically range from the 5 to 7-night range, however, they can be shorter if you’re looking to just zip over to The Bahamas from Florida.

These cruises generally depart from ports in Florida or from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Ports of call on Eastern Caribbean cruises are some of the most popular ports so it’s not unusual to see 3 or more ships on the same day.

The Eastern Caribbean is full of colonial history, pirate history, shopping, beautiful beaches, and volcanic islands with lush green hillsides. These are easily some of the most stunning places in the Caribbean! What’s even cooler is many of these ports offer excursions that will take you to nearby islands such as St. John and St. Barths which are a bit more off the beaten path.

These itineraries are generally best suited for active travelers. Since the ports of call are fairly close to each other, you’ll often wake up in a new port each day. In fact, you may even need a vacation day to recover from your cruise!

The View from Shirley Heights Lookout, Antigua

Southern Caribbean

Last but not least, is the Southern Caribbean. These itineraries require a bit more time but trust me, they are totally worth it! Since the ports are further from the United States, the cruises tend to be in the 7+ day range and cost a bit more.

Cruises that venture to the southern Caribbean often feature Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, Grenada, Guadalupe, St. Kitts, and the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) on their itineraries. These ports of call have a distinct European charm to them.

Many cruises that hit these ports are out of Miami or Puerto Rico, so it is important to consider that when booking the trip, as well.

These ports are steeped in rich colonial history that is evident as you wander around the island. This is a prime location for scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, and zip-lining.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

Give me a like on Facebook or follow me on Twitter for more great tips and tricks.

Categories
Cruise Tips Cruise Travel

6 Benefits of Booking an Interior Cabin

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when booking a cruise is determining what kind of cabin you want to have. You can select from an interior cabin, an ocean view cabin, a balcony, or one of the many suite options. While balconies and suites are always fabulous, many times I’ll opt for an interior cabin. Why might you ask?

Honestly, there are a ton of benefits of booking an inside cabin. Although it is the more budget-friendly option (most of the time), you’ll still have the same level of comfort that you would in one of the more expensive cabins. All of the things that make a cabin comfortable (the bed, linens, etc.), are the same regardless of what type of cabin you book.

Benefits of an Interior Cabin

Save Yourself Some Money

These cabins are most often (but not always) the cheapest staterooms onboard the ship and often come with a chance for free upgrades. These upgrades typically occur when the ship is not sold out and the cruise line can offer you a more expensive cabin for little or no cost to you. Unless you book a suite or a spa cabin, you’ll have all of the same perks as everyone else on the ship at a lower cost to you. Winning! You could apply your savings to your next cruise because let’s face it- cruising is addictive!

Less Ship Movement

The higher you are on a ship, the more movement you’ll feel. Interior cabins are towards the inside center of the ship meaning you’ll feel less movement because, well, science. This is especially true for cabins on decks 1-3 and mid-ship cabins. If you’re worried about seasickness, interior cabins are the way to go.

Plenty of Space

Believe it or not, interior cabins tend to be a little larger than balcony cabins. When you are booking your room, you’ll notice that the square footage is listed- this square footage includes the balcony! They have to get the square footages from somewhere, right? The more space you have, the more storage which is always a win in my book!

More Opportunities to Explore the Ship

An interior cabin is essential a room with no windows aka nothing to stare at except for the four walls. It’s basically just a place for your to sleep and get dressed for dinner. Unless you’re a napper or plan on watching TV your whole trip. Booking an interior stateroom pretty much assures you’ll be out of the room more exploring the ship, seeking out activities and enjoying yourself a bit more.

The Best Sleep Ever

Speaking of sleep, you will have the absolute best sleep of your life in an interior cabin. Since there are no windows, it is pitch black. Oh my gosh, it’s glorious! The bright, hot morning sun won’t wake you up and you’ll be free to sleep as long as you want.

The Ultimate Privacy

As I said, balconies are great- especially on Alaskan or Mediterranean cruises but balconies themselves aren’t very private. You can easily lean over and see what’s happening on the balcony next door- and it ain’t always pretty! In an interior cabin, you have total privacy. There are no windows to peek in, no balconies to peer around, you could totally run around your cabin naked and nobody would know.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Categories
Cruise Tips Cruise Travel Packing

10 Tips for First Time Cruisers

Are you planning on heading out on your first cruise? Here are 10 tips for first-time cruisers that will help get your vacation started on the right foot.

Our Street…er… Sea Cred

We are a family of avid cruisers. In fact, we’re Platinum Cruisers meaning that we’ve spent more than 75 days at sea. I’m not telling you this to brag, just to let you know that I’ve got a bit of experience in this area. Unfortunately, we’ve had to learn a lot of lessons the hard way. Our goal is to help others learn from our mistakes!

The view of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas from the SkyRide to Paradise Point

We’ve traveled all throughout the Caribbean from eastern ports like Nassau, St. Thomas, and Tortola to western ports like Belize, Mahogany Bay, and Mexican ports. We’ve also visited ports like Aruba and Bonaire in the southern Caribbean and sailed into southeastern Alaska. Our travels have allowed us to gain insight into the ins and outs of cruise travel– knowledge that we can’t wait to share with you!

10 Tips for First Time Cruisers

1. Check the ships dress code before you go.

Each ship/cruise line has its own vibe. Be sure to look into what is considered appropriate attire on the ship; especially in the dining room. You can check past cruiser photos on social media or on travel blogs to see how others dressed.

2. Designate a bag just for the beach or pool.

I always toss a backpack or beach bag to store my towel, Kindle Paperwhite, sunscreen, etc. I suggest taking a look at my 13 Things I Keep in my Cruise Beach and Pool Bag to jot down all of the essentials. Oh, and that towel? Leave it at home.

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

3. Have a well-thought out embarkation bag.

Making sure that you are organized from day one is the key to a successful vacation. Your embarkation bag should include your passport, boarding pass, medications, and these items.

4. Make sure you tie up loose ends before you go.

I strongly suggest taking a look at my 12 Things You Should Do Before You Cruise to help ensure you don’t miss any important steps! Part of being prepared is having everything you need on hand and easily accessible.

5. Pick up a map of the cruise ship as soon as you get on board.

Some of these ships are huge, y’all. They are like micro-cities. It’s a good idea to get acclimated to your surroundings on day one. If you get lost, there are almost always maps located at the elevator bays.

Get out there and explore! Embarkation days are my favorite! Here are some tips to help your Embarkation Day go as perfectly as possible.

Xunantunich Ruins, Belize

6. Pack medications, just in case.

I always pack medication for heartburn, upset stomach, allergies, and headaches. If you are prone to seasickness or motion sickness, you’ll want to prepare for that as well. Sea-Bands are handy, but there are other ways to prevent seasickness, as well.

7. Pack a power cord.

Depending on what ship you are on, you may only have 1 or 2 power outlets. Think of all of the electronics you’ll be bringing on board with you! I pack an Anker PowerPort Cube that has 3 outlets and 3 USB ports.

8. Check your cell phone and data plan.

Phone calls from the ship average around $2 a minute. Consider getting an international plan that will give you a much cheaper rate, and often free data.

The internet on the ship is SLOW. We’re talking painstakingly slow. If you have a data plan that allows you to browse the web while abroad, you can use Skype, WhatsApp, Facebook, and other apps to communicate with your loved ones at home.

I’m almost always able to find free internet in port. The connections typically aren’t secure and the speed may not be the greatest but I’m able to send off a few messages and upload a couple of photos.

Natural Bridge, Aruba

9. Be smart about the sun!

Guys, even as a Floridian I’ve been sunburned on a cruise. Trust me, there is nothing worse than nursing a sunburn while on vacation. Pack plenty of sunscreen, and make sure you’re using it regularly. While you’re at it, toss in some aloe and Chapstick with SPF. If you’re heading into the jungle or rainforest, pack some BullFrog Mosquito Coast in your bag, as well.

10. Go with the flow.

It is important to understand that things don’t always go as planned. The line at the buffet may take forever, you may be seated by really obnoxious people in the dining room, you may not be able to pull into a port because of the wind, or it might rain every day. These things happen. How you react to these circumstances will make or break your cruise! Keep things fun and light-hearted. Go with the flow and you’re sure to have an amazing time!

We hope you found these tips for first time cruisers helpful! Please don’t hesitate to drop any question you may have in the comments below and we’ll do our best to help you 🙂

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

**Please note that this post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience. All opinions are my own. Pinkie swear**

Categories
Caribbean Cruise Excursions Cruise Tips Cruise Travel Half Moon Cay The Bahamas

The Complete Guide to Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Beach Villas Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Guide to Half Moon Cay– Half Moon Cay (HMC) is also known as Little San Salvador Island. It is one of 700 islands that make up The Bahamas. This private island, owned by Carnival Cruise Line/Holland America, is located about 100 miles southeast of Nassau. The beach is famous for having crystal clear turquoise water, a 2-mile long horseshoe-shaped white sandy beach, and a massive pirate ship bar.

We hope this Guide to Half Moon Cay will help you plan out your trip and get your excited for all of the adventures that are to come!

 

Half Moon Cay

Things to Know Before You Go…

HMC is a tender port.

This means that the water surrounding the island is too shallow for the ship to dock. In order to access the island, you’ll have to take a water taxi from ship to shore. Guests staying in suites, as well as Platinum and Diamond cruisers, those with an excursion, and those that have purchased the Faster to the Fun pass, will have priority on the tenders.

If you aren’t one of those with priority on the tenders it can take awhile to get back and forth between the island and the ship. There are only four tenders (on a good day) and it can take upwards of 30 minutes.

Once you’re on board the tender, it is a quick 10-minute ride to and from the ship.

Pro-Tip: Pack a Seaband JUST in case you get motion sickness on the tender.

Things you should take ashore with you…

Guide to Half Moon Cay: Food & Drink

There’s a free buffet.

You can enjoy a buffet for free at the Tropics Restaurant. Since this is a private island, you get to have a free buffet-style lunch, just like you would on the ship.

It is important to know that the “tropical buffet” often runs out of food. If you want to take advantage of the free lunch, get in line as soon as it opens at 11:30. The buffet will close at 1:30.

Entrees

  • Hamburger
  • Cheeseburger
  • Garden Burger
  • Hot Dogs
  • Jerked Chicken
  • Cous Cous with Roasted Zucchini
  • Titi Shrimp and Beans with Tapenade

Sides

  • German Potato Salad
  • Coleslaw
  • Medley of Mixed Greens
  • Roasted Yellow Squash
  • Chips n’ Salsa
  • Roasted Broccoli Salad

Desserts

  • Banana Rum Cake
  • Linzer Torte
  • Cookies
  • Brownies

If you don’t mind paying for lunch (and the convenience of not having to stand in a long line), consider buying lunch at the Lobster Shack, located next to the “I Wish I Could Stay Here Forever” bar.

There is free water at the BBQ lunch, make sure you stay hydrated.

The drink package doesn’t work on the island.

You would think that since this is a private island owned by Carnival that you could use your drink package here…but you can’t.

If you want to sip on a run runner while looking out on the water, bring your Sail & Sign Card (for you Carnival cruisers) or you’re Stateroom Key Card (for the Holland America folks).

 

Captain Morgan’s Bar

There are 4 Bars on the Island

  • Captain Morgan’s Bar- The giant pirate ship themed bar is a popular spot with cruisers. Head up to the top for jaw-dropping views.
  • I Wish I Could Stay Here Forever Bar- This is the largest bar on the island and probably the most photographed. It is located halfway between the Welcome Center and Tropics Restaurant (the free buffet).
  • Rum Runners Bar– This bar is located right next to the Fort San Salvador Welcome Center.
  • Lookout Bar-This is by far the least crowded bar. It overlooks Bonefish Lagoon. Head here if you want to avoid the annoying drunk guy from Captain Morgan’s Bar.

The Beach Chairs

There are hundreds of free beach chairs lined up on the beach. Most beachgoers are inclined to grab the beach chairs closest to the water. Sure, you’re close to the water…but this also puts you further away from the shade. Consider grabbing a chair on the last row. There are more trees the farther down the beach you go.

If you’re travelling with a large group, it may be difficult to find chairs together. Head down the beach and hopefully you’ll have better luck.

Even if you’re not traveling with a large group…you should consider the fact that although there are hundreds of chairs, there are also thousands of people on the ship. Mentally prepare yourself for the possibility that you may not get a chair.

 

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Options Way Better Than Free Chairs!

There are other options, aside from the free chairs, that we feel are totally worth the cost! There are cabanas, beach villas, and private oases available. These will guarantee you a comfortable lounge chair, shade, and other perks.

 Cabana

  • Priority access to tender ashore
  • Refrigerator
  • Ceiling fan
  • Air conditioner table and chairs inside
  • Deck chairs
  • Misting shower
  • An assortment of soft drinks and bottled water
  • Fresh fruit, vegetables, chips, dip and salsa to snack on throughout the day.
  • Floating mats and snorkel gear are also included to use throughout your stay.
  • Applicable for up to 4 guests.

Two-Story Beach Villa 

  • Priority access to tender ashore
  • Refrigerator
  • Ceiling fan
  • Air conditioner table and chairs inside
  • Deck chairs
  • Misting shower
  • An assortment of soft drinks and bottled water
  • Fresh fruit, vegetables, chips, dip and salsa to snack on throughout the day.
  • Floating mats and snorkel gear are also included to use throughout your stay.
  • Five person hot tub
  • Applicable for up to 8 guests.

Private Oasis

  • Priority access to tender ashore
  • Refrigerator
  • Ceiling fan
  • Air conditioner table and chairs inside
  • Deck chairs
  • Misting shower
  • An assortment of soft drinks and bottled water
  • Fresh fruit, vegetables, chips, dip and salsa to snack on throughout the day.
  • Floating mats and snorkel gear are also included to use throughout your stay.
  • eight person hot tub
  • Butler
  • Bartender
  • Personal Chef
  • Steward
  • Lifeguard
  • Unlimited food and alcoholic beverage
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Applicable for up to 12 guests.

 

Half Moon Cay

 

Guide to Half Moon Cay: Activities

  • The island has several water toys available for rent including catamarans, sailboats, sailboards, kayaks, paddleboards, etc. 
  • You can also rent a clamshell, cabana or beach villa. All of these can be charged to your Sail & Sign card. I strongly suggest booking cabanas and beach villas in advance. See the section above for all of the perks.
  • Take a hike! There is a mile-long trail on the island. The cruise line is working to develop more nature trails.
  • There is plenty to do on the island, even without booking an excursion. If you do choose to book an excursion, you’ll get priority boarding for the tenders.
  • Check out our favorite excursions.
  • Shop the Straw Market.

 

The Sites at Half Moon Cay

What’s Not to Miss?

  • Take your picture in front of the iconic “I Wish I Could Stay Here Forever” sign.
  • Grab a drink at the pirate ship. Make sure you head upstairs for remarkable views.
  • Walk along the horseshoe-shaped beach. The further you go, the fewer the people. Don’t worry about getting lost….it’s an island… you’ll be able to circle back.

 

Is Visiting Half Moon Cay Worth the Money?

If you plan appropriately, yes. I think nearly everyone who has been to the island would recommend it. You could get away without spending any money on the island and it could be a very, cheap, fun, relaxing beach day.

If you start adding on things like drinks, the drink package, excursions, clamshell shades, etc. things start to add up.

As long as you stay hydrated, remain patient while waiting for the tenders, and be diligent about applying sunscreen, we think you’ll have a blast.

Suggested Schedule

8:00-9:00 hop on an early morning tender
9:00-11:00 Excursion (totally optional)
11:00 – 12:15 Hydrate, make your way to Tropics Restaurant for the free buffet
12:15-12:45– While your food is digesting, take a walk around the island. There’s even a one-mile-long hiking trail!
12:45-2:00– Snorkel, swim, or play with some of the beach equipment
2:00-3:00– Dry off, check out the bars, or the Straw Market
3:00-4:00– Grab a tender back to the ship

We hope this Guide to Half Moon Cay will help you map out your trip. We can’t wait to hear about it!

FAQ About HMC

Is Half Moon Cay owned by Carnival?

Yes, Half Moon Cay is owned by the Carnival Corporation.  They also own Princess Cays, which is just 15 miles away.

Is food on Half Moon Cay free?

Yes, whether you’re sailing with Carnival or with Holland America, there is a free buffet available on the island.  See the section above for more information including food options.

Are drinks free at Half Moon Cay?

Unfortunately, the ship’s drink package doesn’t extend to the island…which is weird considering it’s owned by the cruiseline… 

Are there sharks at Half Moon Cay?

Well…sharks live in the ocean and you’re kind of hanging out in their domain, so yes, there are sharks at Half Moon Cay.  Lemon sharks are known to visit the area.  

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

 

 Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter so you don’t miss out on the fun!  

**Please note that this post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience. All opinions are my own. Pinkie swear**

 

Post Updated: 4/12/23

Categories
Alaska Cruise Tips Cruise Travel United States

What Should I Expect on an Alaskan Cruise?

I have to admit, I’m suffering from a bit of wanderlust. I’ve been dreaming of some of my favorite locations (Honduras, Belize, and Alaska) and I’ve been counting down the days until my next trip. Boy, let me tell you, it can’t come soon enough! Since Alaska has been on my mind so much, I thought I’d share some information about what you can expect on an Alaskan Cruise.

Which Cruise Lines Offer an Alaskan Cruise?

Carnival, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney, Princess, Holland America, Celebrity, and Crystal cruise lines all sail to Alaska. There are also some smaller companies that make the voyage.

When is Alaskan Cruise Season?

Most cruise lines begin their Alaskan cruise season in May however, some may try to sailing in late April. The Alaskan cruise season will typically end by mid-September when the temperatures begin to plummet and the ice begins to form.

Rough Seas? Many people worry about experience rough seas while they are on cruises. If you cruise during the shoulder season (May or September) there is a greater chance of experiencing rough seas. This is mostly in part to the changing of the seasons.

What Will the Weather Be Like?

The weather in southeast Alaska is relatively mild during the cruising season. The average daytime temperatures are in the mid-60’s during the daytime and mid-’40s at night. Not bad, right? You should prepare for rain, however. Many of the cruise ports are located in the Alaskan rain forest.

If you plan on going to check out one of the many glaciers, you will definitely want to pack warm clothes; we’re talking coats, gloves, hats, and scarves. Even on bright and sunny days, these areas are super chilly!

It should be noted that if your Alaskan cruise itinerary includes a day sailing through the fjords that inclement weather/the presence of ice, may impact a fjord day. On my Alaskan cruise itinerary, we were supposed to sail through the Tracy Arm Fjord. Unfortunately, there was a ton if ice caps floating around so we were unable to successfully go through Tracy Arm, instead we visited Dawes Glacier in the Endicott Arm, which was awesome!

Seals

Since the summer months are mild, you shouldn’t have to worry about snow. There will be snow on the mountain tops, and maybe even some on the ground (we saw snow up in the Yukon, for instance) but it shouldn’t be snowing.

Will I see Whales?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions people that visit Alaska get. Chances are, yes, you will see a whale. We were fortunate enough to see countless whales on our weeklong Alaskan cruise. We saw several humpbacks (even some breaching the water!) and lots of orcas. The key to whale watching is being patient, paying attention, and focusing on the horizon.

Our Alaskan cruise had a naturalist on board that would announce when she spotted whales. She’d say “There’s a humpback fluke on the port side at 10 o’clock,” so people would know where to look.

We spotted most of the whales in the Inside Passage and right near the US/Canadian border.

Seals

What other wildlife is frequently spotted?

You’ll have a pretty good chance of seeing seals, and eagles in the fjords. I can’t even begin to tell you how many bald eagles we spotted. They literally dotted the entire fjord. We also saw quite a bit of them in Juneau.

As far as other animals, it will depend greatly on the excursions you choose. While we didn’t get to see any moose, we did spot some bears. In fact, we saw a bear sauntering across the street in downtown Juneau! You may also see goats and salmon.

What should I pack?

The key to packing for Alaska is making sure you have layers! I packed a long sleeve shirt or a sweater/cardigan for each day. Underneath this shirt, I also had a tank top or a short-sleeve shirt. I also wore a jacket every single day. I almost never took off my jacket so I could have totally gotten away with wearing the same thing every day! Make sure you pack a jacket and you are prepared for rain.

One cool thing about Alaskan cruises is that they are super laid back. You don’t have to worry as much about formal nights. This was incredibly handy since I had to worry about the weight of my baggage when I flew from Florida to Seattle.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Updated: 11/17/21

Categories
Cruise Travel Packing

13 Things I Keep in my Cruise Beach and Pool Bag

Packing can be one of the most stressful parts of your trip. I mean… essentially you’re going to be living off of whatever you toss into your suitcase. Of course, there’s always the option of buying items in port but who wants to spend their trip shopping for toothpaste? Purchasing everything you need for your Cruise Beach and Pool Bag will save you the hassle of hunting down these items in port.

For me, organization is the key when it comes to packing. I like to have everything I need at arms reach. I use packing cubes and individual bags to help me keep everything nice and organized. That way when it’s time to hit the beach or pool, I have exactly what I need. The same can be said for when I’m spending time in the jungle or on a walking tour. The faster I can be out the door, the better!

Today I’m going to share with you what I keep in my 13 Things I Keep in my Cruise Beach and Pool Bag. I mean… after all, that is the reason most of us go on a cruise, am I right? I fill my beach bag with both the essentials and items that you may not have thought about.

13 Things I Keep in my Cruise Beach and Pool Bag

1. Sunscreen- The first thing I always stash away in my bag is sunscreen. Cruisers often underestimate the UV Rays in the Caribbean. Even as a Floridian, I can easily get color in the islands. I carry around sunscreen of various strengths so I can switch it up depending on how much color I have already gotten during my trip. Trust me, there is nothing worse than being burnt like a lobster on Day 1 of your cruise. Don’t forget to protect your lips, as well!

2. A Towel– Of course, you have to bring a towel along, right? I don’t bring one of my own personal towels from home rather, I use one of the ship’s towels. Quick-dry beach towels come in handy if you plan on doing more than just hitting the beach (ie: shopping, fitting in an excursion, etc.)

Pro- Tip: These towels can be taken off the ship as well, just make sure you don’t lose it! There will be a fine if you do.

3. Aloe– I always, always, always pack aloe with me on a cruise. I keep it in my fridge when I’m in the cabin and take it into port with me. I got absolutely fried in Aruba. Despite the fact that I was wearing sunscreen, I got burnt to a crisp. I was miserable in my next port, Grand Turk. Since then, I always make sure I have aloe on me juuuuuuuusssssssstttt in case.

4. A metal tumbler or water bottle– Remaining hydrated is super important while traveling, especially if you’re going to be drinking. I bring a water bottle with me into port and carry a tumbler around when I’m poolside. I use a metal tumbler so it stays cold longer and I replenish it with water or juice throughout the day so I don’t risk getting dehydrated.

5. Towel Clips– Towel clips are the latest addition to my beach and pool bag. They are most definitely a novelty, and not totally a necessity but it is nice to not have to worry about your towel flying overboard.

6. Hair Brush– I hate how tangly my hair gets after swimming in saltwater. I like to run a brush through my hair before leaving the beach or before leaving the pool area. I travel with a collapsible brush so that it doesn’t take up much space.

7. Hair Tie– Ladies! Always, always, always bring a hair tie along. The decks of the ship can be very windy and your hair will be a hot tangled mess if you don’t wear it up. This is always super handy to have when you’re going on boating excursions.

8. Sarong/Cover Up– I bought the cutest sarong in St. Thomas and I bring that thing with me everywhere. It’s great to have on hand so you can throw it on real quick if you need a refill or some fruit (or pizza!) from the buffet. Sarongs are super versatile! They can be used as a cover-up, a scarf, a headwrap, an extra storage bag, and even a sling (trust me, I’ve done it!).

9. Ear Buds– Bust out your earbuds and crank up your beach playlist! Earbuds are a great way to drown out background noise and get the most of your “me time”. If you don’t have earbuds at the pool, no worries- there is usually a band or some tunes playing.

10. Kindle Paperwhite– I used to always have a book on hand when I’m on vacation! Now I travel with a Kindle Paperwhite. It has an adjustable screen so that it is easy to read outdoors and it is waterproof making it the perfect e-reader for the beach or pool. Easy reads like The Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich and anything by Chelsea Handler are great to read while relaxing in the sun.

11. Gallon Size Bag- I pack a handful of these when I cruise. They are great for keeping documents and phones safe and dry, preserving small souvenirs, and for storing wet bathing suits and clothes. They take up practically no space and are super lightweight- so why not?

12. A Hat– Hats are a must for the beach or pool. They are a great way to keep the sun out of your eyes and for keeping your hair somewhat tamed.

13. Snorkel Gear- Okay, so obviously I don’t use my snorkel gear in the pool (that stops being cool at like the age of 12) but it is great to have on hand at the beach. If you book a snorkeling excursion, the company will most likely provide you with the equipment however, I still like to bring my own. It’s also great to have on hand when you’re just doing a beach day. I bought this full face snorkel mask and it worked perfectly!

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

Be sure to save this pin and pick up these items for your next cruise! You’ll be thankful you did! Give me a like on Facebook or follow me on Twitter for more great tips and tricks.

**This post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience**

Categories
Cruise Tips Cruise Travel

How to Prevent Seasickness on Your Cruise

I was born with sea legs so I never thought I would succumb to seasickness. Boy, was I wrong. You see, I come from a family of avid cruisers. We cruise at least once a year to places like Alaska, Belize, Honduras, Mexico, Aruba, The Bahamas, etc. Cruising is our favorite way to vacation, and let’s face it, it couldn’t be any easier! Your lodging, meals, entertainment, and transportation and all rolled together in a sexy little package. Let’s face it, there’s one thing that can ruin all of that… seasickness!

There is nothing worse than being seasick and spending your entire vacation hurling in your cabin. Luckily for me, I have only been seasick twice- once crossing the English Channel on a ferry and once on a cruise ship that was sailing through a tropical storm.

What causes seasickness?

Before I delve into ways to prevent seasickness, let’s quickly touch on what causes the worst feeling in the world. Seasickness is caused when your inner ears and your eyes send different signals to your brain. Your ears are like, whoa! we’re moving! but your eyes see that you’re indoors (on a ship) so… you can’t possibly be moving. This wizardry is what causes seasickness. The brain gets all kinds of confused and bam! instant motion sickness. BLAH!

And my goodness, is it awful. It kind of feels similar to the flu. You get dizzy and nauseous, your body feels off-center so the whole room feels like it’s moving. You lose your sense of appetite and your body starts producing more saliva. It’s absolutely dreadful.

So what can you do to prevent sea sickness?

1. See your doctor before the cruise.

If you know that you’re someone who is prone to motion sickness do yourself (and your travel companions) a favor and get prescription-strength meds from your doctor before you leave. Better safe than sorry, right? Trust me… answer right on this one!

2. Stock up on OTC solutions.

There are all kinds of over the counter meds for seasickness. They range from pills to patches and sea bands. It won’t hurt to pick up a few before you leave. Amazon offers all of these solutions for a great price! We recommend Travel Wristbands, Motion Sickness Patches, Bonine, or Dramamine.

3. On-Board Solutions

Okay…so you didn’t heed your body’s previous warnings that you’re prone to motion sickness and now you’re stuck on a boat feeling the urge to ralph. Now, what do you do? Well… luckily the ships are actually full of remedies on the buffet line!

Natural remedies such as:

  • Green Apples
  • Ginger Ale/Sprite
  • Saltine Crackers
  • Peppermints
  • Pretzels
  • Bread

4. Other Preventable Measures

  • Spend as much time as you can on the deck. Use the horizon to maintain your equilibrium. Trust me, this works! This method helps you see the motion, which will fix those mixed up signals your brain is receiving.
  • Book a cabin in the middle of the ship. This is the natural balance point of the ship so you’ll have less movement.
  • Avoid trans-Atlantic crossings and the Caribbean during hurricane season.
  • Book your trip on a larger ship. The bigger the better! Larger ships have more stabilizers!
  • Avoid booze (sorry), spicy foods, and acidic foods.
  • Choose your excursions wisely. Trust me, you don’t want to go horseback riding, boating, or zip-lining while you’re nauseous!

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

Fingers crossed that these tips help you enjoy your vacation as much as possible! Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

**Please note that this post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience. All opinions are my own. Pinkie swear**

Exit mobile version