Luxury Cruising Editorial - Luxury Cruising

The Worst Airlines For Losing Luggage – Is Yours On The List?

June 13, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Cruise Tips Packing

Does anyone else still just have that slight pang of anxiety when you see your suitcase disappear on the conveyor belt at an airport? That moment where you think, “I do hope I see it again on the other side…”

I don’t think it’s just me. You’ve planned for this holiday, and the last thing you want when you’re about to board a cruise ship is to arrive in your embarkation city and find that your suitcase won’t be joining you when you get on the ship.

Airlines don’t release stats on lost luggage – why would they, if they don’t have to? But a clever website has managed to rank airlines to find the worst offenders for losing luggage – with some surprising names in the top 20.

The Worst Airlines for Lost Luggage

Before I list the names, let me clarify. As I said, airlines don’t publish information on lost suitcases.

So instead, the website Luggage Losers has put together a very clever algorithm which scrapes mentions of lost luggage across various websites and social media platforms, in over 100 languages.

It then cross references that with the data that is available on lost luggage to provide a very clever estimate of the airlines and airports that are the worst offenders.

Also, the rankings are updated regularly, so this table is accurate at the time of writing but may shift. Check the website to see how things are changing!

Here’s the latest top 20 worst performing airlines, followed by some other notable entries in the list…

Rank	Airline	Probability of loss/delay of case	% Probability	Estimated no. of lost cases in the last 30 days
1	Frontier Airlines (US)	1 in 22	4.53%	55,656
2	Air India (IN)	1 in 39	2.56%	55,816
3	IndiGo (IN)	1 in 41	2.45%	72,201
4	Kenya Airways (KE)	1 in 75	1.34%	8,243
5	Iberia (ES)	1 in 76	1.31%	16,356
6	Aer Lingus (IE)	1 in 111	0.90%	7,734
7	SpiceJet (IN)	1 in 114	0.88%	8,205
8	Virgin Atlantic (GB)	1 in 127	0.79%	5,793
9	Aeromexico (MX)	1 in 132	0.76%	8,241
10	Spirit Airlines (US)	1 in 150	0.67%	12,536
11	British Airways (GB)	1 in 189	0.53%	21,810
12	Wizz Air (HU)	1 in 191	0.52%	5,310
13	Qatar Airways (QA)	1 in 211	0.47%	15,984
14	Royal Air Maroc (MA)	1 in 218	0.46%	3,884
15	Emirates (AE)	1 in 241	0.41%	15,529
16	Vueling (ES)	1 in 243	0.41%	7,215
17	Air Canada (CA)	1 in 269	0.37%	10,636
18	easyJet (GB)	1 in 274	0.37%	13,070
19	EgyptAir (EG)	1 in 287	0.35%	2,886
20	KLM (NL)	1 in 288	0.35%	6,251
…23	Delta Air Lines (US)	1 in 325	0.31%	40,228
…26	Jet2 (GB)	1 in 337	0.30%	3,878
…29	American Airlines (US)	1 in 350	0.29%	41,733
…31	United Airlines (US)	1 in 374	0.27%	30,597
…35	Ryanair (IE)	1 in 468	0.21%	13,571
…44	Southwest Airlines (US)	1 in 555	0.18%	19,287
…52	JetBlue (US)	1 in 664	0.15%	5,782
…65	Qantas (AU)	1 in 1,341	0.07%	1,455

Is your regular airline on this list? If not, click through to Luggage Losers to see the full table of 83 airlines.

A variety of colorful suitcases on a luggage conveyor belt in an airport setting, conveying the concept of travel and the handling of personal belongings during transit.

I’m pretty shocked by some of the stats though. Imagine an airline having issues with almost 5% of passengers! Those are some crazy odds.

Here’s the worst performing airports too:

Rank	Airport	City	Probability of loss/delay of case	% Probability	Estimated no. of lost cases in the last 30 days
1	Liberty	Newark, NJ	1 in 49	2.04%	73847
2	London City	London	1 in 62	1.62%	4617
3	Gandhi	Delhi	1 in 68	1.48%	78493
4	Shivaji	Mumbai	1 in 85	1.17%	46171
5	Heathrow	London	1 in 128	0.78%	50777
6	Juárez	Mexico City	1 in 135	0.74%	27704
7	Gatwick	London	1 in 206	0.49%	18462
8	Hongqiao	Shanghai	1 in 253	0.40%	13851
9	Stansted	London	1 in 293	0.34%	4617
10	Denver	Denver, CO	1 in 370	0.27%	13849
11	Brussels	Brussels	1 in 398	0.25%	4616
12	Orlando	Orlando, FL	1 in 403	0.25%	9231
13	Pearson	Toronto	1 in 426	0.23%	9232
14	McCarran	Las Vegas	1 in 439	0.23%	9231
15	O’Hare	Chicago	1 in 481	0.21%	13848
16	Luton	London	1 in 488	0.20%	4616
17	Zurich	Zurich	1 in 523	0.19%	4616
18	KLIA	Kuala Lumpur	1 in 530	0.19%	9234
19	Dubai	Dubai	1 in 532	0.19%	13850
20	Frankfurt	Frankfurt	1 in 583	0.17%	9231
21	Dallas/Fort Worth	Dallas	1 in 607	0.16%	9234
22	Schiphol	Amsterdam	1 in 620	0.16%	9232
23	Charles de Gaulle	Paris	1 in 628	0.16%	9232
24	LAX	Los Angeles	1 in 765	0.13%	9232
25	Miami	Miami	1 in 797	0.13%	4617
26	Charlotte Douglas	Charlotte, NC	1 in 831	0.12%	4615
27	Sea-Tac	Seattle	1 in 849	0.12%	4617
28	El Prat	Barcelona	1 in 855	0.12%	4616
29	SFO	San Francisco	1 in 1,010	0.10%	4616
30	Changi	Singapore	1 in 1,125	0.09%	4617
31	Hartsfield–Jackson	Atlanta	1 in 1,879	0.05%	4616

Lost Luggage at the Port

While most luggage issues happen during air travel, it’s not impossible to run into problems at the cruise terminal itself.

Your suitcase is typically handed over to a porter, tagged with your stateroom number, and loaded onto the ship – without you seeing it again until later that day.

Rare scenarios where things can go wrong:

Incorrect stateroom number on the tag
Luggage delayed or missed during port loading
Unlabelled bags causing confusion

Cruise lines are very experienced at handling luggage logistics, and mishaps at this stage are rare – but they do happen.

Luggage Tips for Cruise Travel

A little bit of prep can save you a lot of potential pain – here are some helpful tips for luggage when you’re preparing for a cruise.

1. Use Trackers (AirTag or Tile)

Place an Apple AirTag, Tile, or similar GPS tracker in your suitcase. If your bag gets lost in transit, you’ll often know where it is before the airline does.

It won’t stop your case from getting lost, but at least you’ll know it definitely is (and hasn’t been accidentally taken by someone else).

2. Split Packing

If you’re traveling with a partner or family, mix outfits across bags. That way, if one bag is delayed, everyone still has essentials.

It’s a classic tip but one I think that makes a lot of sense. It might be a little more fiddly if one of you is more organised and the other is a last-minute packer, but you won’t regret it if one case does go missing.

Several pieces of luggage, including black and red suitcases, are lined up against the wall in a cruise ship hallway. The corridor is decorated with patterned carpet and handrails, with green emergency exit lights visible in the distance.

3. Essentials in Carry-Ons

Another golden rule of any kind of travel is to make sure you keep anything essential in your carry-on bags.

This includes the obvious stuff like your travel documents and your medication, but also think about what you might want in the first few hours of your cruise – even if your suitcase doesn’t go missing, you might not get it until the evening of embarkation day.

Pack swimwear in your carry-on and you can kill some time by the pool while you wait for your cabin to be ready.

4. Label Inside & Out

External tags can fall off. Always include a card inside your bag with your name, ship, sailing date, and phone/email.

Then if something does happen to the external tag, there’s still a way your bag can be identified and you can be contacted.

5. Take Photos of Packed Bags

Photograph your luggage inside and out before flying. It’s proof for insurance and helps when describing your suitcase to the airline.

6. Use Luggage Tag Holders

The luggage tags you get from your cruise line can be damaged in transit, which can cause problems for it reaching your cabin.

A collection of luggage with cruise tags is arranged in a corner of a room. The luggage includes a leopard print suitcase, a pink suitcase, and a large black suitcase, all with visible tags displaying cabin numbers and other identification details. Nearby is a fabric laundry basket, indicating a well-organized packing setup for a cruise trip.

Luggage tag holders will protect the tags and make sure they get to their final destination – your cruise cabin.

Your Suitcase Disappears: What Now?

If your suitcase doesn’t make it to the destination airport, here’s what you need to do:

Report it to the airline: There’ll be a baggage desk at the airport. Go and tell them everything and fill out a claim form.
Check your tracker: If you have a tracker in the case, use it and show it to the baggage desk. This will help them identify what’s gone wrong, and what can be done to resolve it.
Contact your travel insurance: Let them know about the issue and start a case.
Carry on to your cruise port and board: Unless the airline tells you differently, you’re very unlikely to get the case before you sail and so you’ll need to continue with your travel plans. Assume that you’ll get the suitcase returned to you at home at a later date, if it can be found.

Visit Guest Services onboard ASAP: It’s going to be busy on the first day, but speaking to Guest Services is a must. They’ve seen this before and can help you – they might even have a few freebie essentials like toiletries that they can offer
Visit the onboard store and buy missing essentials: Pick up what you need – and make sure to keep receipts! You’ll need them to claim back on your insurance later.
Shop in port for anything else: If you’re missing outfits for the cruise, you’ll get better prices if you shop in port rather than onboard (where you might only find cruise line branded merch, anyway).
Use the laundry services onboard: Don’t buy tons of new clothes you don’t want. Buy a couple of outfits and get them cleaned – and then make sure to add the laundry charges to your travel insurance claim.

The Importance of Travel Insurance

If there’s one safety net that can really help when your suitcase goes walkabout, it’s travel insurance.

No, it won’t magically summon your missing case from the luggage void – but it can save you hundreds of £s/$s in emergency costs, and make the whole process a lot less stressful.

Most decent travel insurance policies will include cover for two key things related to luggage – Baggage Delay Cover and Baggage Loss Cover.

My Recommendation

My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.

These are trusted price comparison sites that will quickly get you lots of quotes to match your exact needs.

1. Baggage Delay Cover

This kicks in if your luggage is delayed for a certain amount of time (usually 12–24 hours). You’ll typically be able to claim for emergency purchases—think toiletries, a few clean clothes, or even a swimsuit so you don’t miss out on pool time.

Some policies will give you a set amount per day, others work on reimbursement with receipts. Always keep those receipts and check the details before you travel so you know what you’re covered for.

2. Baggage Loss Cover

If your luggage is officially lost – usually after 21 days – it can be classed as missing permanently. That’s when baggage loss cover kicks in, and you may be reimbursed for the value of your suitcase and its contents (up to a maximum amount, depending on your policy).

You’ll likely need:

Proof of ownership or value of contents
A copy of your baggage claim form from the airline
A full list of what was lost

Don’t Leave Insurance to the Last Minute

It’s a common mistake, but travel insurance should ideally be booked when you book your trip, not just the week before departure. Early purchase means you’re covered for more scenarios in the run-up to travel – like trip cancellation or needing to rebook flights if something goes wrong.

Final Word

Lost luggage is frustrating – but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. With smart packing, the right tech, and a bit of insurance, you can cruise with confidence.

And remember, these mishaps are rare – most passengers and their suitcases make it to the ship just fine.

My Recommendation

My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.

These are trusted price comparison sites that will quickly get you lots of quotes to match your exact needs.

If you found this interesting, please share!

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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12 Things You Must ALWAYS Check On The Deck Plan Before Booking A Cruise

June 13, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Choosing a cruise Cruise Lines Cruise News

Woah, woah, woah there – get your mouse pointer away from that ‘Book Now’ button, or just hold on a second before telling your travel agent that “Yes” you’re ready to confirm your cruise booking.

Have you even checked the deck plans yet?

So many people book a cruise without even thinking about where their cabin is located, or whether it’s the right one for them, and it really can make all the difference.

And I bet there are things on this list you wouldn’t have even considered…

1. Confirm the Category

First things first – check the cabin category. Deck plans use colour coding to show what type each cabin is, whether it’s an inside, oceanview, balcony, or suite. You can then just make sure you’re booking the right category that you want (or see what the other options are like nearby).

Cruise lines will shade the deck plans based on all the subcategories too – so you’ll get categories like “Deluxe Balcony A3” versus “Standard Balcony A5.”

The colours help… unless you’re looking at a plan with 47 shades of beige. (Seriously, why are there five types of green?)

The trick? Use the legend or key and zoom in. You’re not just being picky – the category can affect price, perks, and location. You want to make sure you’re booking the right one.

2. Check the Size of the Stateroom and Balcony

If a cabin or balcony looks bigger on the deck plan, it probably is.

These plans are surprisingly accurate, and those little differences can mean a more spacious room or a balcony that actually fits a lounger.

On some ships, especially near the back or on the corners, you’ll spot oddly shaped cabins – often wider, longer, or just roomier than the rest.

Spotted one? Snag it. Some of the best hidden gems may look a couple of pixels wider, but that could be a different of a couple of feet.

3. Look at the Balcony Shape – and Whether It’s Overlooked

Check the shape of your balcony. They aren’t all rectangular. Angled balconies can be brilliant – they often have more space, perfect if you want to stretch out in the sun without knocking over your mojito.

But watch out: if the balcony sticks out, the cabins above may have a clear view of yours. I booked a massive balcony on Iona and I actually wished that I hadn’t!

So, if you’re the type who likes a private morning coffee in your dressing gown, check what’s directly above and whether privacy might be a concern.

Suggested read: Is It OK To Have Sex On A Cruise Ship Balcony?

4. Check the Type of Beds

Not all beds are created equal. Some cabins have fixed twins, while others have beds that can convert into queens or kings – that’s handy if you’re cruising with a friend or partner.

This image shows a neatly arranged small room with a bunk bed configuration, featuring a lower couch that likely converts into a bed and an upper bunk accessible by a ladder. The room has a neutral color palette, with gray walls and white bedding, and is complemented by soft curtain drapes that suggest a cozy and compact living space, possibly within a cruise ship or a budget hotel room designed to efficiently accommodate multiple guests.

Also check how extra beds are arranged: are they pullman beds that fold out from the wall or ceiling? Sofa beds? Or are you looking at something that turns the room into a mattress maze when the kids go to sleep?

This is where that fine print and little icons on the deck plan really matter.

The last thing you want is to end up with a ridiculous cabin layout like the one we had on Britannia earlier this year…

If you’re not careful, you could end up with a nightmare situation like your teenagers having to share a double bed or granny having to climb up into the top bunk!

5. What’s Above and Below the Cabin

One of the golden rules of cruising: you don’t want to sleep underneath the pool deck. Or a nightclub. Or the buffet kitchen. Or the gym.

Noise can travel, and cabins directly under busy venues often come with the not-so-soothing sounds of dragging chairs, pounding music, slamming dumbells or the 6am sun lounger stampede.

Same goes for what’s below your cabin. Engine rooms and crew access areas can mean noise and vibration. For maximum peace and quiet, aim for cabins sandwiched between other decks of staterooms.

Suggested read: Where Is A Cruise Ship Engine Located?

6. How Many People the Cabin Sleeps

Most standard cabins are built for two, maybe three people – but if you’re travelling as a family or group, make sure you check the maximum capacity.

Cabins that sleep four or five sell out fast, and many ships only have a handful of 5+ berth options, if any at all.

Don’t assume you can squeeze in extras – cruise lines are strict about this for safety reasons.
Even if you have a baby that will sleep in a travel cot, you’ll still be required to book a cabin with a proper bed for them.

Get Help Booking Your Family Cruise

Cruise Family are the only UK specialists in cruises for families of 5+ (and smaller ones too!)

Let them find your perfect trip…

7. Proximity to the Elevators

Some people love being near the lifts – less walking, easier access to everything. But others hate the potential foot traffic and noise.

An elegant elevator area on the Carnival Radiance with a patterned blue carpet, wood-paneled doors, and modern circular light fixtures creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests transitioning between the cruise ship's multiple levels.

If you’re a light sleeper or enjoy a lie-in, a cabin right next to the elevator lobby might not be ideal.

That said, mid-ship near the lifts is golden for anyone with limited mobility or small kids in tow. Just check how close is too close.

8. Walking Distance

On mega ships, some cabins are hidden down corridors with more twists than a soap opera.

Look at this cabin that I booked (the red line is the walk to the elevator)…

When I realised how far it actually was from the elevator, I called my travel agent to change it. My daughter had mobility issues at the time and the walk would have just been too much.

If your cabin’s down a long hall, around a corner, past a few more doors, and then back again, it can get old – especially if you’re in heels or dragging a sleepy toddler.

On deck plans, look for cabins with a relatively straight route from the elevators or stairs. This sounds nit-picky, but trust me: after day four, it matters.

9. Bath or Shower Facilities

Most cruise ship bathrooms come with showers, but some cabins – especially family staterooms, suites, or certain accessible rooms – come with bathtubs.

A neatly arranged bathroom with modern fixtures on a Disney cruise ship. The space is split into two sections, with a rectangular sink and vanity on the left, featuring a large mirror with integrated lighting. On the right, there's a full-length shower enclosed by glass doors, complemented by white subway tiles and multiple built-in shelves for toiletries. The floor throughout is laid with herringbone-patterned tiles, enhancing the bathroom's contemporary aesthetic.

If you’re travelling with young kids, a bath can be really handy. Some cruisers also prefer them for soaking after long port days.

It’s rarely shown clearly on the deck plan itself, but the cabin legend or detailed ship specs should tell you.

10. Connecting Cabins

Connecting cabins are great if you want to book both and have easy access between them (especially for families), but not so great if you don’t.

Why? Because even when the connecting door is locked, it doesn’t always block sound perfectly. You might hear your neighbours’ conversations – or worse, their TV at 1am.

Look for the little door symbol on the deck plan if you want to avoid one. It’s usually double-headed arrows.

11. Obstructed View Cabins

Some “oceanview” or “balcony” cabins come with surprises – like a lifeboat smack in the middle of your line of sight. In rare cased, the obstruction might even be a slide!

View from inside a Norwegian Prima stateroom with an ADA-accessible obstructed ocean view balcony, featuring comfortable outdoor furniture and a clear glass door, with a glimpse of a lifeboat outside.

Obstructed view cabins are usually cheaper, but don’t assume that a sea view means an uninterrupted sea view.

On deck plans, there’s usually a symbol or shading to indicate partially or fully obstructed cabins. It’s worth checking with the cruise line or looking up photos from previous cruisers if you’re unsure.

And here’s a sneaky thing – sometimes a cabin won’t be sold as an obstructed view one, but the deck plans will tell you that there is a partial obstruction. Another reason to check!

Before you book an obstructed cabin, I suggest you watch this video that I made…

12. Accessible Staterooms

Cruise lines are doing a better job of offering accessible cabins, but not all of them are the same.

Some are simply wider to accommodate wheelchairs. Others have full wet rooms, lower sinks, emergency call buttons, and other features designed for guests with mobility needs.

If you need an accessible stateroom, check what level of accessibility it offers – and book early, as these cabins are limited.

And if you don’t need one, don’t try to book one.

About Guarantee Cabins

Everything in this list applies if you’re choosing your cabin for yourself. Book a Guarantee Cabin though, and the whole thing is moot.

Guarantee Cabins are where you don’t get to choose your cabin, and the cruise line will put you in whatever they haven’t sold by the time the cruise sails.

The benefit of this is you’ll pay less – so you need to decide whether you want a cheaper deal, or the comfort of knowing you don’t get stuck in an unfavourable cabin.

There’s no right or wrong answer, although I would suggest that you should think about how much you’ll likely use the cabin, and how light a sleeper you are.

A heavy sleeper who intends to be up early and out and about, exploring the ship? Get a Guarantee.

Someone who likes to enjoy their cabin, relax more or who struggles with noise? You’ll probably want to pay more and pick your cabin, based on the deck plans.

Final Thoughts

Deck plans might look like a game of Tetris crossed with an unbreakable code puzzle, but they’re the key to unlocking a cruise cabin that suits your needs perfectly, and they really aren’t that complicated once you get into them.

With a mild bit of detective work, you can avoid sleepless nights, long walks, and awkward surprises – and instead enjoy a cabin that feels just right.

So grab your reading glasses, zoom in on that plan, and get booking like a pro.

If you found this interesting, please share!

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The 13 Scams Cruise Passengers Keep Falling For

June 13, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Money saving tips

These days it feels like a constant battle to avoid scammers – those people who feel like they can earn a living by defrauding others and cheating them out of their cash.

And sadly going on a cruise doesn’t mean you get to escape that. Cruisers have a lot of scams they need to avoid, and unfortunately there are several that people just keep falling for.

Even worse, some of them take place actually onboard the ship…

1. Outstanding Balance Fraud

This scam targets you before you even step onboard. You’ll get an email – often looking convincingly official – saying you haven’t fully paid for your cruise or that new port fees or taxes have been added.

A woman with wavy hair and glasses is working on a laptop at a wooden desk in a cozy, well-decorated room. The desk is adorned with several plants, a notebook, and a cup of coffee, creating a warm and inviting workspace. The wall beside her is decorated with framed artwork and a wooden map, contributing to the creative and personal atmosphere of the space.

The email might include a link to “settle your balance,” but it leads to a fake website that mimics your cruise line’s branding perfectly. It’s designed to capture your payment details or login credentials.

How to avoid it: Never click on links in unexpected emails.

If you’re unsure, go directly to your cruise line’s official website or call them using a verified number. Use your booking reference to log into your account securely – not through random links.

2. Free Cruise Scam

You get a message claiming you’ve won a “free cruise” – just pay the taxes, port fees, or a small admin charge to claim it.

It might even come with a ticking clock to “secure your cabin.” Once you pay, you’ll either get nothing in return or be hit with a barrage of upsells and hidden fees, making your “free” cruise more expensive than just booking it outright.

How to avoid it: Legit cruise lines don’t hand out free trips randomly. There are some ways people cruise for free, so be aware of those here.

Be sceptical of anything that asks for payment to claim a prize, and check if the company is registered with ABTA or ATOL (or your country’s equivalent) before handing over a penny.

There are plenty of legit ways you can win a free cruise – but you won’t have to pay!

3. Discount Excursion Scams

While wandering around port, someone approaches you offering a private tour at a fraction of the cruise line’s price.

A tour guide with a red flag, showing a group of men around a city.

It sounds tempting, but after handing over your cash, the tour may be sub-par, rushed, or non-existent.

Worse, you could miss the ship’s departure – and the cruise line won’t wait for unofficial excursions.

How to avoid it: Stick to cruise-line-endorsed excursions or use reputable third-party providers with good online reviews. Always confirm return times and ensure they guarantee to get you back before all aboard.

Save up to 40% on Cruise Excursions!

Choose from over 4,000 excursions with a return-to-ship guarantee

4. Free Gift From Vendors

A vendor outside the port offers you a free trinket – a necklace, bracelet, or souvenir.

You accept, and suddenly you’re inside their shop getting the hard sell. Some become aggressively pushy, while others make you feel guilty enough to buy something overpriced just to escape.

How to avoid it: You’re not being rude by saying “no, thank you.” Be polite but firm and avoid being drawn into shops or stalls with vague offers.

5. “Please Hold This” Scams

This scam plays out like a bad prank. Someone hands you an item – a bag, jacket, or camera – asking for help while they sort something out.

Minutes later, someone else shows up claiming it was stolen, or that you’ve damaged it. Cue shouting, accusations, and a demand for cash compensation.

How to avoid it: Politely refuse to hold items for strangers. If something feels off, walk away and alert a local official.

This is the kind of scam that’ll only really happen in port – I don’t think there are scammers who can get enough value from this type of scam while also paying to be onboard a cruise!

6. Unlicensed Taxis

Outside the cruise terminal, a driver waves you over offering a “special deal” or “local rate.” They may have no meter, no ID, and no official markings.

You get in, and halfway through the journey, the price triples – or worse, they take you somewhere dodgy and refuse to take you back unless you pay up.

How to avoid it: Use clearly marked, licensed taxis or pre-book transport through your cruise line or reputable apps like Uber. Don’t hop in just because someone says they’re “cheaper than the cruise taxis.”

7. Travel Clubs

You’re invited to a presentation or emailed a “VIP offer” to join an exclusive travel club.

Bimini Beach Club is legit – but look out for other resort pass offers that sound too good to be true!

They promise massive cruise discounts and luxury perks for life, or another common one is a free pass for a resort day while you’re in port. And all you need to do is attend a talk.

Once you’re at the talk, you’re overloaded with information about this fancy travel club offering all kinds of extra benefits, and all you need to do is pay an upfront fee. And then an ongoing membership.

But once you’ve signed up, the “deals” turn out to be non-existent or worse than what’s publicly available. And you can’t break the contract. Oops.

How to avoid it: Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics. Never pay a fee just to access discounts. Always research the company independently before committing to anything.

8. “Bump and Break”

This scam is often seen in busy ports or crowded areas onboard.

Someone “accidentally” bumps into you and drops an item – glasses, a phone, a camera – then accuses you of breaking it.

They make a scene and demand cash for the damage, hoping you’ll panic and pay just to get away.

How to avoid it: Don’t fall for the drama. Stand your ground and offer to contact ship security or local police. Scammers almost always back down when official help is mentioned.

9. Art Auction

This one will raise some eyebrows! And to be clear, I’m not saying that art auctions onboard cruises are a scam by default.

However…

Art auctions can be fun and flashy, but they’re also a hotspot for exaggerated claims and inflated prices. You might be told you’re buying a “rare collectible” at a bargain, but the artwork could be mass-produced and worth a fraction of what you paid.

How to avoid it: Unless you’re an art collector with knowledge of the market, treat these events as entertainment, not investment. If you’re genuinely interested in a piece, ask for provenance and research it online before buying.

10. Spa Treatment & Products

You go in for a relaxing massage, but come out with £200 worth of skincare you didn’t plan to buy.

Some onboard spa staff use the treatment time to pitch expensive products, and in some cases, the charges are slipped onto your bill without clear consent.

How to avoid it: Be clear upfront that you’re not interested in buying anything. Check your final spa bill carefully before signing, and dispute anything suspicious immediately.

11. Fake Crew Member Scams

These scams usually happen online.

Fake profiles pop up on social media, often impersonating well-known cruise directors or crew members.

They’ll befriend you, message you, and eventually ask for money due to a supposed emergency – like a family crisis or frozen bank account.

How to avoid it: Real cruise staff don’t message passengers asking for money. If someone does, block and report them. And never share personal or financial info with anyone you don’t know in real life.

12. Fake Onboard Activities

This one starts in cruise fan groups or social media forums.

Someone posts about a “special event” happening onboard – maybe a secret wine tasting or private crafting class -and asks for a small fee to cover materials or reserve your spot.

But when the cruise begins, the event doesn’t exist. And the person who organised it isn’t even onboard, so there’s nothing you can do.

How to avoid it: When it comes to paid-for events, only trust activities listed in the cruise line’s official app, newsletter, or confirmed by crew onboard.

If someone’s asking for money in advance for a group event, be suspicious – and don’t pay unless it’s through a trusted platform.

Free events? They’re usually fine.

13. Fake News on Social Media

You see a sensational headline in your feed: “Cruise ship sinks off the coast of Miami” or “Passengers quarantined after outbreak.”

It’s clickbait, often linking to dodgy websites full of viruses or phishing traps. These fake stories spread fast because people click before they think.

How to avoid it: Just follow common sense rules for being online, and think before you click. If you see a shocking news story, think – why wouldn’t you have already seen this on a reputable website?

Final Word

Cruise scams can come from all directions – online, onboard, and ashore. But a little knowledge goes a long way.

Stay alert, trust your instincts, and remember: when in doubt, ask the cruise line directly. That way, you can spend less time stressing and more time sipping cocktails on deck.

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A Cinematic AI Campaign Celebrates The Soul Of The Sea And The Brand’s Origin Story

June 12, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Uncategorized

Virgin Voyages has long set out to deliver a different kind of cruise experience, one built on emotional connection, self-discovery and the spirit of the sea. That vision has come to life visually in the form of the mermaids: symbolic figures at the helm of each Lady Ship. Now, the brand is giving those icons voice and dimension with The Mermaids: A Virgin Voyages Tale, a fully AI-generated cinematic series developed in collaboration with creative agency Native Foreign.

The short film introduces Scarlet, Valiant, Resilient and Brilliant, four mermaids that embody different aspects of the Sailor experience and the human condition: passion, courage, resilience and wisdom. These characters have long stood as visual anchors in the Virgin Voyages world. With this series, they now serve as narrative tools that reflect how travelers move through their journeys, from bold adventure to inner growth.

“The story we’ve been telling since day one has always been about more than travel; it’s been about transformation,” said Bailey Edwards, Editorial Director at Virgin Voyages. “Our mermaids have always represented the soul of the sea and the emotional essence of who we are as a brand. Bringing them to life through this cinematic series allowed us to give depth and voice to that mythos – not just as a visual motif, but as characters who reflect the spirit and individuality of our Sailors. This is storytelling as brand architecture, and it’s only just the beginning.”

That long-held narrative has been embedded in the product experience from the beginning, visible in the design of the ships, the diversity of on-board programming, and the brand’s global itineraries. With three Lady Ships currently sailing from ports including Miami, Barcelona, Athens and San Juan – and Brilliant set to join the fleet this fall – the timing felt right to begin telling the full mermaid story. AI-enabled design and storytelling tools gave the brand the opportunity to do so with both creative flexibility and depth.

The result is a visually rich and emotionally resonant short film, guided by a character known as the “Mother of the Mystic Seas,” who connects the individual mermaid stories into a cohesive narrative.

Nik Kleverov, Chief Creative Officer of Native Foreign and director of The Mermaids film, adds, “The most exciting use of AI isn’t to just replace or replicate what we can do now on a regular shoot; it’s to dream big and bring imaginative concepts to life in entirely new ways.”

The project also reflects a broader shift in how Virgin Voyages is approaching brand-building: by using intelligent content systems and creative technologies to scale storytelling across channels and markets.

Behind the film is a wider transformation of Virgin Voyages’ marketing operations. The brand is integrating AI tools across creative development, messaging and content planning, with platforms like Jasper, Canva, OpenAI and Google Agentspace playing a role in streamlining workflows. These systems allow the company and its global network of First Mates (travel advisors) to produce high-quality, emotionally consistent content faster, while maintaining brand integrity and personalization.

“This campaign is a creative turning point for us,” said Billy Bohan Chinique, Senior Director of Global Brand Marketing and AI Transformation at Virgin Voyages. “It’s the first time we’ve had the tools to fully express the narrative that’s been built into our brand since launch – not as a one-off, but as a scalable, emotionally consistent platform. These mermaids allow us to connect brand story, product experience and guest identity in one cohesive system. That’s the real breakthrough. We’re not just telling a story, we’re building an architecture to tell it everywhere.”

The mermaids now serve as a bridge between brand and product, helping Virgin Voyages connect emotion and identity to every voyage, every destination and every Sailor’s journey. Their introduction marks the next step in a brand story that has always existed; one that AI has now helped bring to life in full.

The Mermaids: A Virgin Voyages Tale is now live on Virgin Voyages’ YouTube channel. Additional chapters will roll out leading up to the launch of Brilliant Lady.

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Is the All-Inclusive Package Worth It?

June 12, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Cruise Tips Princess Cruises

Thinking about going all-inclusive on your next Princess cruise? The Princess Premier package promises to cover pretty much everything – but is it really worth the cost?

I tested it out on a week-long cruise aboard Sun Princess and dug into the details, so you don’t have to. Here’s everything you need to know before deciding if Princess Premier is right for you…

For transparency, I want to tell you that I was invited aboard as a guest of Princess Cruises, but as always, the cruise line has no control over my content and all of my opinions are my own.

What Is Princess Premier?

Princess Premier is the top-tier package that Princess Cruises offers, designed to turn your cruise into an all-inclusive experience. It includes nearly every extra you’d typically pay for onboard.

For £75 per person per day (or $90 USD), here’s what you get:

OceanNow delivery and room service delivery with no fees
Unlimited drinks (up to $20 each)
Wi-Fi for up to four devices per guest
Crew gratuities (usually $17 to $19 per day)
Unlimited premium desserts
Unlimited fitness classes
Unlimited casual dining meals
Unlimited specialty dining
Unlimited digital photo downloads + 3 printed photos
Reserved theatre seating for main shows
Princess Prizes entries whenever you enter your cabin

In short, it’s a bundle of all the little things that can add up to hundreds during your cruise.

Princess Cruises also offers a Plus Package, which is a bit cheaper, but doesn’t include as much. You can read my comparison of Plus and Premier here.

Don’t Overpay for the Package

Before we get into things, I have one important tip for you…

If you want the Premier pages, buy it before your cruise! It costs $5 per day more if you wait until you’re on the ship. You can still add it within the first two days onboard, but it’s more expensive that way.

Sign with the last chance to upgrade to Princess Premier

Also, if you’re cruising with children, you don’t need to buy the Premier package for them. And you probably shouldn’t, because they can’t use a lot of it like the alcoholic drinks, fitness classes and Princess Prizes.

Your kids can either:

Get the lower-tier Princess Plus package
Stick to the standard cruise fare

Some perks like Wi-Fi, photos and desserts can be shared with kids. Drinks, however, are strictly non-shareable.

About The Inclusions…

Now let’s take a closer look at everything you get with the package…

Unlimited Drinks Is A Huge Money Saver

If you enjoy a few cocktails by the pool or like wine with dinner, this package pays for itself quickly.

The included drink package covers any drink up to $20 — that includes:

Fancy cocktails
Top-shelf spirits
Craft beers
Wine by the glass
Barista-made coffees

By the time you’ve ordered your fourth drink of the day, the package could have already paid for itself!

But what if you drink cheaper drinks like soft drinks and bottled water? Well, I have a calculator that will work out your expected bar bill, based on the 2025 drinks prices on Princess ships. Just pop your email in below and I’ll send that to you…

One thing to watch out for: canned soft drinks are NOT included in the package. (Weird, I know). Fountain sodas are covered, but if you ask for a can of Coke Zero, expect a charge.

Tip: some bartenders will pour the can into a glass for you so it counts as a fountain drink!

Also note: bottles of wine aren’t included, but you do get 25% off. If you’re someone who splashes out on premium bottles, you can save a lot.

Unlimited Cruise Photos Will Make Your Holiday SO Memorable

Cruise ship photographers are everywhere — formal night, outside the ship at ports, they even green screen backgrounds at embarkation. Usually, the photos are pricey (like, “$83 for a five pics” pricey).

But with Princess Premier, you can:

Get all your digital photos free (download them straight to your phone via the app)
Choose three prints at no extra cost (via the Photo Studio onboard)

We normally skip the photo ops, but this time we went all out! The photographers are genuinely brilliant, and you get memories you’d never capture with a selfie.

All the Specialty Dining You Want

Specialty restaurants can cost $20 to $60+ per person, per meal. But with Premier, you can try as many as you like.

We dined at:

Umai Teppanyaki – The kids loved this one
Love By Britto – The most romantic restaurant ever
Sabatinis – The most exquisite Italian
Alfredo’s – The pizza is incredible
Umai Hot Pot – An interactive cooking experience

There are plenty more as well, including steakhouses, fish restaurants and pub food. Take a look at this six-course meal at Love By Britto before you tell me that you’d prefer to dine in the main dining room..!

Even with dietary restrictions (vegan, vegetarian, and picky kids), the staff were brilliant. Once you note your requirements, each restaurant is informed in advance and prepares something off-menu if needed.

Princess Prizes Is A Fun Little Extra

Princess Prizes screen on the cabin door

Each time you enter your stateroom while the ship is at sea, you’re automatically entered into a prize draw via the screen by your door. You might win spa treatments, jewellery, wine tastings, speciality dining meals and so much more!

We didn’t win, but it added a bit of fun every time we returned to the cabin.

Reserved Seats in the Theatre

Interior view of the Princess Theatre on a Princess cruise ship, showcasing a sea of purple seats facing a large stage with a red curtain and a screen displaying 'Princess Theatre'. The ceiling is dotted with lights, enhancing the venue's vibrant atmosphere.

Trying to get a good seat at a production show can be chaotic. But with Princess Premier, you get a reserved section, so you can stroll in 5 minutes before curtain up and still get a great view.

Note that this only applies to the big production shows, not smaller acts.

Room Service and Ship-Wide Deliveries

Room service delivery is included, with no extra fees. We made good use of it for lazy brunches on the balcony, late-night bottled water, glasses of wine while getting ready and kids snacks!

And with OceanNow delivery, you don’t just have to order it to your room. You can order food and drinks to be delivered anywhere on the ship! And if you move, the crew members can track you using your medallion so they will bring it right to you!

Getting a mojito delivered to my hammock on the top deck was a highlight of my cruise!

Other extras include unlimited fitness classes, a juice bar and huge ice-creams that come in big beer mugs.

Gratuities Taken Care Of

Tips for the crew are usually charged at $17 per person, per day (or $19 if you’re in a suite). These are included in the package, so straight away you can consider it as costing $73 per day instead of $90.

Suggested read: Can You Refuse To Pay Gratuities On A Cruise?

The Wi-Fi Is Fast

Laptop logged into Princess Premier MedallionNet wifi

Cruise ship wi-fi is usually hit and miss. And I’ve found that the more people are using it, the slower it can be. However, despite Sun Princess being a huge ship, and lots of people having the wi-fi packages, the onboard wi-fi was always super fast. That’s because Princess reserves the fastest wi-fi for Plus and Premier Package guests, while everyone else gets the standard wi-fi.

Having four devices is handy too because you don’t need to log in and out. I used one login for my phone, one for my laptop (because I often work while at sea) and I have one to each of the kids so they could watch their iPads while I got ready to go out.

Who Is Princess Premier Good For?

We loved the Premier Package. Last year, we got the Plus Package, but next time we will get Premier again. Even though my husband doesn’t drink alcohol it’s still worth it for us.

Princess Premier is perfect if you:

Enjoy premium drinks
Want to dine in multiple specialty restaurants
Like having your photos taken
Use Wi-Fi a lot
Don’t want to think about extra charges onboard

It’s not for you if you:

Don’t drink at all
Are happy with main dining and the buffet
Never use onboard photographers
Aren’t fussed about little extras

Final Thoughts

For us, Princess Premier was 100% worth it. We drank cocktails guilt-free, tried new restaurants every night, got loads of fab photos, and avoided a nasty bill at the end.

Even if you don’t use every single perk, the value quickly adds up. And best of all? It makes the cruise feel truly carefree.

Thinking about it? Do the maths. Check out my full breakdown of Princess Plus vs Princess Premier to see which suits you best.

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Cruise Corporation Smashes Targets For Food Waste Reduction

June 12, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Uncategorised

Cruise guests often marvel at the never-ending buffets, sprawling dining rooms, and elaborate cuisine found onboard modern ships – but rarely consider what happens to the mountains of leftover food.

Carnival Corporation, one of the world’s largest cruise operators, is not only thinking about it – it’s acting.

In a 10th June 2025 announcement, the company revealed it has exceeded its goal to cut food waste across its brands by 40% by 2025, achieving an impressive 44% reduction in 2024 compared to 2019 levels.

The initiative, dubbed “Less Left Over,” spans Carnival’s portfolio of brands including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, and Cunard.

The strategy combines real-time data tracking, AI-driven forecasting, and staff training to better predict food demand and optimise portion sizes.

These tools help the company prepare the right amount of food for each cruise – down to specific menu items – while reducing waste from prep to plate.

Cruise kitchens have also started plating meals more efficiently and using guest preference data to tailor menus on the fly.

“Our Less Left Over strategy is powered by dozens of large and small programs and technologies… but more than that, it’s a global rallying cry,” said Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation. “It’s turning everyday actions into lasting impact.”

Leftovers Find New Life

When leftovers do occur – as they inevitably will – the cruise conglomerate is getting creative. A few standout examples include:

Turning used cooking oil into biofuel for excursion buses in Alaska
Recycling coffee grounds into vegan soap sold onboard or donated
Donating surplus meals and ingredients to local food banks in ports experiencing food insecurity

These efforts have already saved the company an estimated $250 million in food-related costs, with expectations for more progress over the next five years. Carnival’s longer-term goal is a 50% reduction in food waste by 2030.

To deal with unavoidable leftovers, Carnival has turned to biodigesters – nicknamed “metallic stomachs” – which use bacteria to liquify food waste, making it easier and more sustainable to dispose of at sea.

As of the end of 2024, 630 biodigesters were in use across the fleet, supplied by Power Knot Ocean.

Additionally, the company uses more than 90 food dehydrators and dryers, which strip moisture from harder-to-process food items, reducing volume by up to 90%.

The dried remains can later be used as organic mulch or compost.

A Model for the Cruise Industry

This success story comes as cruise lines across the industry face mounting pressure to reduce environmental impact, especially as public awareness around sustainability continues to grow.

With “Less Left Over,” Carnival Corporation is demonstrating that large-scale operations can embrace meaningful sustainability without sacrificing quality or guest experience.

From biofuel buses to AI-assisted meal planning, the program serves as a blueprint for how cruise travel can become more planet-friendly – one meal at a time.

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New Cruise Suite Announced With $25k Per Night Price Tag

June 12, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News News

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has raised the bar on ultra-luxury travel with the reveal of its jaw-dropping Skyview Regent Suite, set to debut aboard the new Seven Seas Prestige when the ship launches in December 2026.

Regent Seven Seas Prestige Skyview Regent Suite

Announced on 11th June 2025, the double-deck, 8,794-square-foot suite comes with every imaginable amenity – and a nightly price tag starting at an eye-watering $25,000.

It is the largest suite ever offered by the brand and a centrepiece of its newly announced Prestige-class.

The 77,000-gross-ton ship is currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy, and will carry 822 guests when it enters service.

The Skyview Regent Suite is one of 12 suite categories the vessel will feature.

Inside the Skyview Regent Suite

The two-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom suite sprawls across two floors and includes:

Private elevator connecting the levels
Wraparound balcony with 3,700 square feet of outdoor space
Glass-enclosed bar and in-suite dining area
Private gym and massage room
Sauna, walk-in shower, and hand-carved soaking tub
Exclusive access to The Study, a private 12-guest dining room

Designed by Miami-based Studio DADO, the suite’s aesthetic embraces sleek architectural lines and a soothing neutral colour palette, enhanced by abundant natural light from expansive skylights.

“At nearly 9,000 square feet, this breathtaking two-level suite delivers the most exclusive and elevated experience at sea,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

As an added indulgence, guests of the Skyview Regent Suite will enjoy a private car and driver in every port – a level of personalised service rarely matched in the cruise industry.

Prestige-Class Ship to Debut in December

Seven Seas Prestige, the first of two ships in the new class, will launch with a 14-night transatlantic holiday voyage from Barcelona to Miami departing on 13th December 2026.

Ports of call include Málaga (Spain), Funchal (Madeira), and Tortola (British Virgin Islands).

Following her arrival in Miami, the ship will homeport there for winter 2026-2027, offering 10- to 12-night cruises throughout the Caribbean, including two transits of the Panama Canal.

In spring 2027, Seven Seas Prestige will make a northbound voyage to New York, before crossing the Atlantic once again on the “Gilded Crossing” to begin her summer European season.

Voyages aboard Seven Seas Prestige, including the opportunity to reserve the Skyview Regent Suite, will go on sale 25th June 2025.

With such an extravagant new offering, Regent Seven Seas continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in ultra-luxury cruising. Whether the Skyview Regent Suite becomes the most coveted suite at sea remains to be seen – but it has certainly earned the spotlight.

Suite Deals

I recommend booking with luxury specialists Panache Cruises for the best service.

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A Guide to Harmony Of The Seas’ Central Park Attractions

June 12, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Royal Caribbean

Harmony of the Seas has a number of neighbourhoods where you’ll find different features grouped together, one of which is Central Park. This is a really cool place to hangout for a drink, or to grab a nice meal in the evening with its collection of speciality restaurants.

Does the park really have live plants? What can you do here, and is it worth a visit?

It really is impressive…

Harmony of the Seas’ Central Park Explained

Central Park appears on all of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class cruise ships (Harmony of the Seas is the third ship in that class) and on Icon-class ships.

Central Park is open to all guests and it doesn’t cost to explore the area, although most of the venues you’ll find in Central Park do charge a fee, including the speciality restaurants and the bars. The only one that is free is Park Café.

You’ll also find some of the high-end stores in the park.

Tiffany & Co. at Central Park on Harmony of the Seas

Central Park is one of the main neighbourhoods on Harmony of the Seas. It’s an outdoor space designed to be like a real park, with thousands of live plants. Nature sounds are piped into the area to add to the overall ambiance.

As you walk through Central Park, you’ll find weaving paths to the sides that run beneath trellises that are wrapped in vines. It’s a great sensory area of the ship, with a wonderful fresh scent accompanying the sights and sounds of the flora.

You can even book a Harmony of the Seas Central Park Balcony stateroom, if you want to enjoy the views of the park from the comfort of your own balcony.

It’s not just an outdoor space though – there’s a lot more to it than a pathway and some plants. Central Park is a great place to relax, with various seating areas amongst the foliage. It’s also lined by some of the more popular restaurants and shops on the ship.

Here’s the full list of venues you’ll find at Central Park on Harmony of the Seas:

1. Chops Grille

Chops Grille at Central Park on Harmony of the Seas

Chops Grille is an American steakhouse restaurant on Harmony of the Seas. The entrance is right at the entrance of Central Park, and you can get a window table with a view out onto the park as well – great when it’s all lit up at night. The restaurant serves premium steak and seafood dishes.

2. 150 Central Park

Directly opposite Chops Grille is 150 Central Park, a modern restaurant with a wide-ranging menu, created using locally sourced ingredients. Some of the dishes will even be prepared at the side of your table. Again, views out onto the park are available if you get a table by the window.

3. Rising Tide Bar

Rising Tide Bar at Central Park on Harmony of the Seas

The Rising Tide Bar is a fun place to grab a drink. Part bar, part elevator, it’s pretty unique – the entire bar and seating area move between the Royal Promenade up to Central Park. Seating is limited, but it’s worth trying it once if you get the chance. You should be able to book your place on the Royal Caribbean app.

4. Trellis Bar

Trellis Bar at Central Park on Harmony of the Seas

The Trellis Bar is an outdoor bar area with casual seating, perfect for a pre-dinner drink you’re eating at one of the restaurants in the area. In the evening, musicians will play to serenade you while you sip your cocktail or glass of wine, enjoying the calm outdoor ambiance.

5. Park Cafe

Park Cafe at Central Park on Harmony of the Seas

Something a little more casual, Park Café is open for breakfast and lunch and serves a selection of deli sandwiches. Grab yourself one of the amazing Kummelweck roast beef sandwiches, find a seat and enjoy a luxurious picnic right amongst the plants.

This is the only venue in the Central Park area that is included in your cruise fare.

6. Jamie’s Italian

Jamie's Italian at Central Park on Harmony of the Seas

Another restaurant found in Central Park, Jamie’s Italian offers rustic Italian dishes designed by British chef Jamie Oliver.

There is limited outdoor seating for this restaurant, so order your favourite pasta and meat dishes, and enjoy them in the comforting atmosphere of the park at dusk. It’s a beautiful location that matches the beautiful food.

7. Vintages

Pull up a seat indoors or outside at this premium wine bar and enjoy some wonderfully crisp whites and some deep reds, along with a great selection of sparkling wines and Champagnes. Not sure what to pick? The servers are experts and can happily recommend some choice selections.

8. Hublot

Hublot at Central Park on Harmony of the Seas

Hublot is a specialist watch store, selling a fantastic selection of timepieces for both men and women.

9. Cartier Omega

Cartier Omega at Central Park on Harmony of the Seas

Cartier Omega is a luxury jewellery store on Harmony of the Seas, selling a range of necklaces, rings, watches, bracelets and more including fine diamond accessories.

10. Bulgari

This photo of Harmony of the Seas is courtesy of Tripadvisor

Visit Bulgari to pick up some luxury Italian accessories, including designer jewellery, watches and handbags.

Central Park Deck

Central Park is situated on Deck 8 of Harmony of the Seas. It takes up most of the entire deck – the exceptions are at the forward part of the deck, which hosts a number of staterooms, while towards the aft there is Dazzles.

Here are the Harmony of the Seas deck plans showing Central Park:

Because the park is open air, the space directly above it is empty until you get to Deck 14, where there are walkways built above the space that host the pool bar.

Central Park View Balcony Staterooms

A Central Park View Balcony Stateroom is a stateroom that has a balcony on the inside of the ship, overlooking the Central Park area. They were the first inward-facing balconies to be featured on cruise ships.

They have their plus points and their downsides. People enjoy them because the view can be a little more interesting – you can people-watch, and see everyone milling around. Looking outwards, you might only be able to see the horizon.

Some people have said that the balconies are noisier, which is to be expected. And also remember that since you can people watch, people can also see you, especially on the equivalent balcony staterooms that are opposite.

This might feel like it invades on your privacy a bit, and you’ll need to remember to draw your curtains every time you’re getting changed – not usually a problem on an outward-facing balcony.

In Summary

On a warm day, Central Park is a great place to relax with a light bite from Park Cafe, and at night it comes to life with the vibrant bars and speciality restaurants on offer, with musicians creating a fun and relaxing atmosphere.

It’s a quieter, calmer space than the Royal Promenade and Boardwalk, and a good spot if you need a break from the vibrancy of the pool decks too. Being surrounded by so much plant life, you can’t help but just feel at peace.

Make sure you explore Central Park at least once on your next Harmony of the Seas cruise!

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Wonder Of The Seas Central Park

June 12, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Royal Caribbean

There’s something pretty magical about the Central Park neighbourhood on Wonder of the Seas – a real park, with thousands of real plants, slap-bang in the middle of one of the biggest cruise ships in the world. And you’re free to enjoy it when sailing on this incredible ship.

Whether you head here just for a calming stroll during the day, or you want to try one of the speciality restaurants in the park that’s open for dinner, you’ll find it to be a peaceful and picturesque area to relax.

Just you wait until you see just how much there is to enjoy here…

Wonder of the Seas’ Central Park Explained

Wonder of the Seas does have a Central Park neighbourhood. Central Park appears on all of the Oasis-class ships (Wonder of the Seas is the fifth ship in that class) and on Icon-class ships.

You’ll also find some of the high-end stores in the park. Take a look at this video for a closer look at the park…

Central Park is one of the main neighbourhoods on Wonder of the Seas. It’s an outdoor space designed to be like a real park, with thousands of live plants. Nature sounds are piped into the area to add to the overall ambiance.

You can even book a Wonder of the Seas Central Park Balcony stateroom, if you want to enjoy the views of the park from the comfort of your own balcony.

However, the Wonder of the Seas deck plans don’t reveal all of the places you can visit – the shops are just marked as ‘Retail’. So instead, I’ve put together this guide to make it easier for you to see what you’ll find at the Central Park area.

Here’s the full list of venues you’ll find at Central Park on Wonder of the Seas:

1. Chops Grille

Chops Grille is the American steakhouse restaurant on Wonder of the Seas. The entrance is right at the entrance of Central Park, and you can get a window table with a view out onto the park as well – great when it’s all lit up at night. The restaurant serves premium steak and seafood dishes.

2. 150 Central Park

3. Rising Tide Bar

The Rising Tide Bar is a fun place to grab a drink. Part bar, part elevator, it’s pretty unique – the entire bar and seating area moves between the Royal Promenade up to Central Park. Seating is limited but it’s worth trying it once if you get the chance.

4. Trellis Bar

5. Park Café

This is the only venue in the Central Park area that is included in your cruise fare.

6. Giovanni’s Kitchen

Wonder of the Seas Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Another restaurant found in Central Park, Giovanni’s Kitchen offers rustic Italian dishes. There is limited outdoor seating for this restaurant, so order your favourite pasta, meat or seafood dishes and enjoy them in the comforting atmosphere of the park at dusk. It’s a beautiful location that matches the beautiful food.

7. Giovanni’s Wine Bar

8. Regalia

Regalia is a luxury jewellery store on Wonder of the Seas, selling a range of necklaces, rings, watches, bracelets and more including fine diamond accessories.

9. Coach Store

Wonder of the Seas’s Coach Store is a leather goods boutique – expect various accessories including designer handbags, along with sunglasses and scarves.

What Deck Is Central Park on Wonder of the Seas?

Central Park is situated on Deck 8 of Wonder of the Seas. It takes up most of the entire deck – the exceptions are at the forward part of the deck, which hosts a number of staterooms, while towards the aft there is the Music Hall.

Here are the Wonder of the Seas deck plan showing Central Park:

Because the park is open air, the space directly above it is empty until you get to Deck 14, where there are walkways built above the space that host the Lime and Coconut bar.

What Is a Central Park View Balcony on Wonder of the Seas?

This might feel like it invades on your privacy a bit, and you’ll need to remember to draw your curtains every time you’re getting changed.

But a Wonder of the Seas Central Park Balcony room is still a popular option – it’s not a bad room, just one that splits opinion, so you might love it.

Suggested read: Wonder of the Seas Staterooms to Avoid

In Summary

On a warm day, Central Park is a great place to relax with a light bite from Park Café, and at night it comes to life with the vibrant bars and speciality restaurants on offer, with musicians creating a fun and relaxing atmosphere.

Make sure you explore Central Park at least once on your next Wonder of the Seas cruise!

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Allure Of The Seas Central Park

June 11, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Royal Caribbean

One of the coolest and most relaxed places to hang out on Allure of the Seas is the Central Park neighbourhood. This is an actual park area, with real plants – the perfect spot to take it easy during the day.

At night, it comes alive thanks to the many speciality restaurants and bars that it hosts, giving you a chilled but fun place to dine and enjoy the view.

You won’t believe how much there is packed into this one special place onboard…

Allure of the Seas’ Central Park Explained

Allure of the Seas does have a Central Park neighbourhood. Central Park appears on all of the Oasis-class ships (Allure of the Seas is the second ship in that class) and on Icon-class ships.

You’ll also find some of the high-end stores in the park.

Tiffany & Co. at Royal Caribbean's Central Park

Central Park is one of the main neighbourhoods on Allure of the Seas. It’s an outdoor space designed to be like a real park, with thousands of live plants. Nature sounds are piped into the area to add to the overall ambiance.

You can even book an Allure of the Seas Central Park Balcony stateroom, if you want to enjoy the views of the park from the comfort of your own balcony.

Here’s the full list of venues you’ll find at Central Park on Allure of the Seas:

1. Chops Grille

Chops Grille at Central Park on Allure of the Seas

Chops Grille is the American steakhouse restaurant on Allure of the Seas. The entrance is right at the entrance of Central Park, and you can get a window table with a view out onto the park as well – great when it’s all lit up at night. The restaurant serves premium steak and seafood dishes.

2. 150 Central Park

150 Central Park at Central Park on Allure of the Seas

3. Rising Tide Bar

Rising Tide Bar at Central Park on Allure of the Seas

4. Trellis Bar

5. Park Café

Park Cafe at Central Park on Allure of the Seas

This is the only venue in the Central Park area that is included in your cruise fare.

6. Giovanni’s Table

Giovanni’s Table at Central Park on Allure of the Seas

Another restaurant found in Central Park, Giovanni’s Table offers rustic Italian dishes. There is limited outdoor seating for this restaurant, so order your favourite pasta, meat or seafood dishes and enjoy them in the comforting atmosphere of the park at dusk. It’s a beautiful location that matches the beautiful food.

7. Vintages

Vintages at Central Park on Allure of the Seas

8. Picture This

Picture This is the portrait studio on Allure of the Seas, where you can get professional photos taken to remember your cruise holiday. You can also pay here for photos taken elsewhere on the ship.

9. Regalia

Regalia at Central Park on Allure of the Seas

Regalia is a luxury jewellery store on Allure of the Seas, selling a range of necklaces, rings, watches, bracelets and more including fine diamond accessories.

10. Coach

Coach at Central Park on Allure of the Seas

Visit Coach to pick up some luxury accessories and clothing items, including designer shoes and bags.

What Deck Is Central Park on Allure of the Seas?

Central Park is situated on Deck 8 of Allure of the Seas. It takes up most of the entire deck – the exceptions are at the forward part of the deck, which hosts a number of staterooms, while towards the aft there is Dazzles.

Here are the Allure of the Seas deck plan showing Central Park:

Because the park is open air, the space directly above it is empty until you get to Deck 14, where there are walkways built above the space that host the pool bar.

What Is a Central Park View Balcony on Allure of the Seas?

This might feel like it invades on your privacy a bit, and you’ll need to remember to draw your curtains every time you’re getting changed. But a Central Park View Balcony on Allure of the Seas is still a popular option – it feels more like a hotel balcony, and the views to the park are pleasant.

Suggested read: Allure of the Seas Cabins to Avoid

In Summary

Make sure you explore Central Park at least once on your next Allure of the Seas cruise!

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The Worst Airlines for Lost Luggage

Lost Luggage at the Port

Luggage Tips for Cruise Travel

1. Use Trackers (AirTag or Tile)

2. Split Packing

3. Essentials in Carry-Ons

4. Label Inside & Out

5. Take Photos of Packed Bags

6. Use Luggage Tag Holders

Your Suitcase Disappears: What Now?

The Importance of Travel Insurance

My Recommendation

1. Baggage Delay Cover

2. Baggage Loss Cover

Don’t Leave Insurance to the Last Minute

Final Word

My Recommendation

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1. Confirm the Category

2. Check the Size of the Stateroom and Balcony

3. Look at the Balcony Shape – and Whether It’s Overlooked

4. Check the Type of Beds

5. What’s Above and Below the Cabin

6. How Many People the Cabin Sleeps

Get Help Booking Your Family Cruise

7. Proximity to the Elevators

8. Walking Distance

9. Bath or Shower Facilities

10. Connecting Cabins

11. Obstructed View Cabins

12. Accessible Staterooms

About Guarantee Cabins

Final Thoughts

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1. Outstanding Balance Fraud

2. Free Cruise Scam

3. Discount Excursion Scams

Save up to 40% on Cruise Excursions!

4. Free Gift From Vendors

5. “Please Hold This” Scams

6. Unlicensed Taxis

7. Travel Clubs

8. “Bump and Break”

9. Art Auction

10. Spa Treatment & Products

11. Fake Crew Member Scams

12. Fake Onboard Activities

13. Fake News on Social Media

Final Word

TODAY’S BEST CRUISE DEALS!

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What Is Princess Premier?

Don’t Overpay for the Package

About The Inclusions…

Unlimited Drinks Is A Huge Money Saver

Unlimited Cruise Photos Will Make Your Holiday SO Memorable

All the Specialty Dining You Want

Princess Prizes Is A Fun Little Extra

Reserved Seats in the Theatre

Room Service and Ship-Wide Deliveries

Gratuities Taken Care Of

The Wi-Fi Is Fast

Who Is Princess Premier Good For?

Final Thoughts

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

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Leftovers Find New Life

A Model for the Cruise Industry

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

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Inside the Skyview Regent Suite

Prestige-Class Ship to Debut in December

Suite Deals

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