Luxury Cruising Editorial - Luxury Cruising

Guests Complain Over Pullman Bed Issue (I Had The Opposite Problem!)

April 21, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News News

A recent guest on a Princess Cruises ship was left frustrated by a policy surrounding the use of Pullman beds in their cabin.

The guest took to social media to share their complaints after they tried to spend more time in their cabin during the day as a family.

Pullman beds – fold-down bunk-style beds that are tucked into the ceiling or wall – are a common feature in many standard cruise staterooms.

They allow families and groups to comfortably sleep up to four passengers in one cabin.

But the guest wasn’t happy after trying to use their stateroom during the daytime on their cruise. The family of four, sailing on Discovery Princess, discovered that their Pullman beds would only be set up during nightly turndown service.

The cabin steward reportedly refused to keep the beds down during the day, citing safety concerns.

This left the family – two adults and two children aged 12 and 9 – with only two twin beds to use during the day.

The guest said the arrangement made their cabin experience “miserable” and wished they had been informed of the policy before booking.

My Opposite Experience

While the steward reportedly cited safety concerns – including potential hazards during emergencies or turbulent sailing conditions – other guests have shared different experiences, stating their Pullman beds remained down for the duration of their voyages aboard the same ship or other Princess Cruises vessels.

I recently sailed on a P&O Cruises ship and I had the opposite problem to this Discovery Princess guest!

Our cabin layout meant that the Pullman beds made the room feel super cramped when they were down – and they often stayed down during the day.

We tried to return to the cabin to relax while the kids were at the kids’ club, and found that the beds were still taking up loads of space!

Kids are in the kids’ club, thought we would come back to the cabin to chill for a bit. Then remembered it looks like this

Of course, it’s a different cruise line, but P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises are both owned by the Carnival Group.

This discrepancy suggests the policy may be enforced differently across sailings or crews.

The situation has sparked broader discussion about the challenges of booking cabins for families, especially when cruise lines offer vague or inconsistent information about room layouts and sleeping arrangements.

Pullman beds and sofa beds are all common solutions for accommodating additional guests in cruise ship staterooms, but room setups can vary widely.

Some travellers suggest booking connecting cabins or suites with multiple sleeping areas to avoid surprises.

Cruise lines, including Princess Cruises and its sister brands like Carnival and Holland America Line, encourage guests to review deck plans and stateroom specifications in detail when booking.

Guests are also advised to confirm with customer service or a travel agent if they have specific needs, especially when traveling with children or in groups.

With hundreds or even thousands of staterooms per ship, small oversights in configuration or communication can quickly become pain points for guests.

While some policies – such as bed configurations and Pullman bed availability – may be driven by safety protocols, clearer communication from cruise lines may help manage expectations and avoid similar frustrations in the future.

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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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Parking Your Car When Cruising From Dover

April 21, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Car Parking Cruise Lines Cruise News

While Dover is primarily a ferry port, there are also a considerable number of cruise ships departing from Dover each year with cruise lines such as Carnival, Fred. Olsen, Holland America and more.

If anything, the port is only going to get busier – in early 2025 it completed the first part of a major renovation, and can now play host to some of the biggest ships in the world!

Of course, that also means there’ll be more cars needing to find a parking space – and you don’t want to pay over the top for your cruise parking either…

Please note: This guide relates specifically to parking for a cruise. If you’re looking for parking to take a ferry from Dover, you’ll find some info on that here.

Dover Cruise Terminal Locations

Cruise ships dock at one of three cruise terminals in the Port of Dover:

Terminal 1 – Departures on small and medium ships
Terminal 2 – Departures on larger ships
Terminal 3 – Visits on small ships only

Dover Cruise Port Address: Dover Cruise Terminal, Lord Warden Square, Dover CT17 9DQ

Dover’s three cruise terminals are located within the Western Docks – about a mile west of Dover town centre.

Although you can cruise from Dover, the ferry port is much busier than the cruise port. FDS and P&O ferries from Dover to Calais depart from the Eastern Docks which is about two miles away from Dover’s cruise terminals.

Where to Park for Dover Cruises

When it comes to parking your car in Dover for a cruise, you have three options:

1. Parking at Dover Cruise Terminal

Dover Cruise Terminal has over 1,000 secure undercover parking spaces. This is the most convenient place to park for your cruise from Dover as you can walk straight to the ship.

Parking at Dover Cruise Port is arranged by Cruise & Passenger Services (CPS). You can book your parking on the CPS website or by calling 0345 071 3939.

If you have booked a cruise that includes complimentary car parking at Dover Cruise Terminal, you’ll still need to book a space. When you receive your parking voucher, you can enter the code on the CPS website to claim your free parking.

Car parking at Dover Cruise Terminal costs £16 per day. You can expect to pay £112 to park your car for a seven-night cruise.

Parking at Dover cruise terminal is pretty expensive, particularly if you’re cruising for more than a few days. However, there are some much cheaper options that you may also wish to consider…

2. Off-Site Dover Cruise Parking

Parking your car at a specialist off-site cruise car park will sometimes cost less than half of what parking at the port costs. You’ll definitely save by parking near Dover port, instead of right at the terminal.

There are two secure car parks that are recommended. These include a free shuttle bus from the car park to your cruise ship. The ride takes 5-10 minutes each way.

If you need any help with your luggage, staff will be happy to assist. That makes these options great for anyone with small children or mobility difficulties.

Option One: Dover Port Parking Ltd.

Address: Port House, South Military Road, Western Heights, Dover, CT17 9UE

For a cheaper option than parking at the cruise terminal, Dover Port Parking Ltd comes highly recommended by many cruisers.

Here you can drop off your car, leave your keys and take the included shuttle bus to the cruise terminal. When you get back, just call and they will come to collect you. The bus ride takes around six minutes.

Price: Around £9.75 per day

Features:

Free shuttle bus
Great security with 24-hour CCTV, lights and electric gates
4 electric car charging points

Option Two: Relyon Cruise Parking

Address: Relyon Cruise Parking, Poulton Close, Dover, CT17 0HL

Another great-value option for Dover cruise parking is Relyon Cruise Parking. Located on the outskirts of Dover, this option is slightly cheaper than the option above, but it’s also a few minutes further away.

Relyon Cruise Parking comes with a free door shuttle service which takes about ten minutes each way.

Price: Around £10 per day

Features:

As well as car parks which are purpose-built for cruise passengers, there are other places in Dover where you can park your car for as little as £2 per day.

These cheap parking spaces can be found at hotel and supermarket car parks, retail parks and private driveways to rent.

While £2 per day sounds great, you’ll also have to factor in the cost of a taxi to the cruise port. Plus, you’ll need to be able to carry your own luggage. If you’re okay with that, these are the best value car parks for cruises from Dover.

There are two websites that I use to see all of the car parking spaces for a cruise. These are JustPark.com and YourParkingSpace.co.uk. I like to check both of them to find the best deals.

3. Dover Hotels with Cruise Parking

If you need to drive for more than a couple of hours to reach Dover, it’s a good idea to head down the night before. That way you can avoid stressing over the morning traffic and wake up fresh ready to start your cruise in the most relaxed way.

The table below shows the main Dover hotels with cruise parking. These hotels all allow you to leave your car at the hotel while you are on your cruise.

Hotel Name	Stars	Transfer	Time to Port	Price
Holiday Inn Dover (formerly Ramada)	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Included	10 mins	Check price
The White Cliffs	⭐⭐⭐	Extra	10 mins	Check price
Best Western Dover Marina Hotel & Spa	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Extra	5 mins	Check price

The Best Place to Park Your Car in Dover for a Cruise

The best place to park your car in Dover for a cruise depends on your priorities. If you want to park your car right by the ship and aren’t concerned about the cost, then parking at Dover Cruise Terminal is the easiest option.

If you don’t mind spending an extra five or ten minutes to take a shuttle bus, there are two off-site cruise car parks that can offer parking for less than half of the price of parking at Dover port. These are Dover Port Parking Ltd and Relyon Cruise Parking.

And if you’re travelling from further afield then you might be best booking a hotel option. Then you just need a transfer, with the hotel’s car park serving as your Dover cruise terminal parking.

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Car Parking at Rosyth Cruise Terminal

April 21, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Car Parking Cruise Lines Cruise News Fred Olsen

If you’re booking a cruise from ‘Edinburgh’ and were planning on just getting the train to the city and a quick taxi to the port, you might want to think again.

The Port of Rosyth is located 40 minutes from Edinburgh, on the north bank of the River Forth in Scotland. That’s quite the expensive taxi! There is a nearer train station (Inverkeithing) but because that means transferring to another train, a lot of people just decide to drive.

Of course, this means arranging parking. Parking at the terminal is easy, but also expensive. It’s not the only option, though…

From Rosyth, you can embark on cruises with cruise lines such as Fred. Olsen Cruise Line, Windstar Cruises, Silversea and Oceania Cruises.

Rosyth cruise port address: Port of Rosyth Cruise Terminal, Rosyth, Dunfermline KY11 2XP

The Rosyth cruise terminal postcode for parking is the same – KY11 2XP – use that for your satnav and follow directions.

1. Parking at Rosyth Cruise Terminal

The most convenient place to park for a cruise from Rosyth is at Rosyth Cruise Terminal. Space in the car park is limited, so if you choose this option, it’s wise to book your parking as soon as you can.

Rosyth cruise parking at the terminal costs £15 per night.

You may book car parking at Rosyth Cruise Terminal by contacting your cruise line directly. For Fred Olsen Rosyth parking, the telephone number is 0800 0355 145.

If you have used a travel agent to book your cruise, they may take care of the parking for you.

When booking parking at Rosyth Cruise Terminal, you’ll need to state the vehicle make, model, registration number and whether disabled parking or assistance is required.

2. Cheap Car Parking in Rosyth

You can save money by parking in an alternative car park near Rosyth and taking a taxi to the cruise port.

Cruise passengers often prefer to park on supermarket car parks, shopping centre car parks, or even on private driveways that people rent out.

There are two websites that I use to find the cheapest cruise parking. These are JustPark.com and YourParkingSpace.co.uk.

It’s good to use both parking websites as they each list different parking spaces. Using these websites, I have found parking 3 miles away from Rosyth Cruise Port for as little as £2 per day.

For a 10-night cruise, you could save over £50 by booking a space in a secure car park three miles away (including the cost of a return taxi).

How to use parking comparison sites

Select Hourly/Daily parking
Enter the postcode KY11 2XP
Enter your dates
Hit Search
See the nearest car parks on a map
Book online

3. Rosyth Hotel & Parking Deals

If you plan to drive for more than a couple of hours to reach Rosyth to start your cruise, then you may wish to stay in a hotel near Rosyth Cruise Terminal the night before you embark.

While there are currently no Rosyth hotels that are advertising stay and park deals, many hotels in the area have large car parks, so it’s certainly worth calling to ask if they would be happy for you to leave your car there while you cruise.

The Best Parking For Cruises From Rosyth

The best place to park for a cruise from Rosyth is at Rosyth Cruise Terminal. You can arrange this by calling your cruise line or travel agent who will book the parking for you.

For longer cruises, you can save quite a lot of money by parking a little further away and taking a taxi or by staying at a hotel the night before your cruise and leaving your car there.

How to Get to Rosyth Cruise Terminal by Car

From Edinburgh and the South
- Follow signs for Queensferry Crossing and M90 to Perth. Cross the Queensferry Crossing and exit on the first slip road immediately after crossing the bridge.
- At the roundabout, take the first left towards Port of Rosyth. Follow this road for approximately 1.5 miles then, at the roundabout, take the second exit following signs marked ‘Cruise’.
- After about 200m, at the next roundabout, take the second exit and follow the road until you reach the Port Gatehouse.
From Aberdeen, Dundee and the North
- Leave the M90 at J1B. Take the B981 exit for Inverkeithing/North Queensferry.
- At the roundabout, take the third exit on to the B981. At the next roundabout, take the second exit, following the yellow cruise signs.
- At the next roundabout, continue straight on to Keith Road and then turn left in to the Port of Rosyth.
From Glasgow and the West
- From the M8, follow signs for Queensferry Crossing and follow the same directions as from the North.
- From the M9, follow signs for Kincardine Bridge onto the A985 to Rosyth. At the first roundabout, turn right and follow the signs for Rosyth.

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Some People Believe Cruise Lines Put Laxatives In The Food! Here’s The Truth…

April 21, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Cruise Tips Food and drink

There’s a rumour circulating online that cruise ship chefs intentionally put laxatives in food to keep the ship’s plumbing working properly.

This belief may have been fuelled by the fact that certain food items served on board, like those high in fat, can have a laxative effect.

But surely – surely – they can’t be actually putting laxatives into the food they’re preparing just to make sure the ship’s plumbing runs smoothly… Right?

Breaking Down the Myth: Cruise Ships and Laxatives

Of course cruise ships don’t put laxatives in the food!

Any connection with that sort of ‘laxative effect’ of high fat foods is purely coincidental and not a deliberate attempt by the crew members to prevent the plumbing from getting clogged or backed up!

Cruise lines have strict food safety protocols in place. The emphasis is on maintaining a clean and safe environment, rather than resorting to dubious methods to ensure that the plumbing works properly.

The myth that laxatives are covertly added to cruise ship food is often circulated among first-time cruisers. However, this is a complete fabrication. There is no need for laxatives as cruise ship toilets are designed well enough to handle large quantities of pee, poop and paper.

And of course, it would be both unethical and illegal for chefs to add laxatives to food without the knowledge or consent of the guests.

That said, my friend Emma Cruises discovered on a Royal Caribbean cruise in Japan, that Coca-Cola Plus is often served instead of Coke Zero – and this drink can indeed have a laxative effect due to the extra fibre!

Reasoning Behind the Myth: Do Cruisers Need Laxatives?

One theory behind this myth is that the change in diet, sparked by the abundance and variety of food on a cruise ship, can lead to irregular bowel movements.

The introduction of certain foods, such as powdered eggs, can naturally stimulate the digestive system without the need for laxatives.

Plus, with drink packages, most cruisers will consume more alcohol and sugar-free soft drinks than they usually would at home – both of which can have a laxative effect when consumed in excess.

Any initial discomfort experienced by passengers is often short-lived and can be managed with balanced eating and regular exercise. The cruise shi p medical team are also on hand to provide advice and assistance, should any more serious concerns arise.

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that while a cruise ship vacation may involve indulging in a variety of rich and exotic foods, moderation is key. This will not only ensure a comfortable journey but also dispel any fears of unwanted laxative effects.

What To Be Cautious Of To Avoid Stomach Upsets

Sometimes, diarrhoea at sea can be the result of a mild stomach bug, rather than laxatives. Diseases like norovirus may spread more quickly at sea where people are in close contact.

1. The Pools And Hot Tubs

You can easily catch germs from using the pool or hot tub with someone who has an upset stomach. So for that reason, if you ever experience diarrhoea on a cruise ship, it’s vital that you avoid swimming for at least two weeks.

Yes, I know, that’s probably the rest of your cruise. But honestly, it’s only fair that you don’t pass your bacteria or viruses onto anyone else. Serious germs can survive in chlorinated water for days, and could cause others to become very sick if they swallow even a tiny amount of contaminated water.

According to US Law, children in swim diapers are not allowed to use cruise ship pools.

On British-owned cruise ships like those owned by P&O Cruises, kids in swim nappies are allowed in some of the largest, deepest pools. But ships like this are rare, and in most cases, toddlers are confined to a small splash area.

2. Touching Surfaces

If someone with an upset stomach has germs on their hands and then touches a surface, those germs can spread like wildfire. The most common culprits are the elevator buttons, stairway handrails and drinks machines in the buffet.

juice machine in buffet on Royal Caribbean cruise ship

To avoid picking up anything nasty here, I always use my knuckle rather than my finger to call the elevator. You should avoid using handrails unless you have to. If the sea is rough, you can rest your wrist on the handrail so that you can quickly grab it if you need to steady your balance.

When it comes to the buffet or restaurant, be sure to always wash your hands before you visit. There’s usually a handwashing station available.

Older cruise ships don’t always have handwashing stations, but they should always have sanitiser. That said, it doesn’t hurt to sanitise your hands again in between pressing the button on the water machine and touching your bread roll.

3. The Salad Bar

Many of us enjoy a good salad, especially when we’re trying to eat healthy on vacation. But, you should be cautious when it comes to pre-made salads on cruise ships. There is always a risk of cross-contamination. The vegetables in the salad could have come in contact with meat or other food that is not safe without being cooked.

Of course, there are strict rules in place to prevent cross-contamination between meat and salad, but as you’ll see from the case of the MSC Seaside that has in the past failed a hygiene inspection, those rules aren’t always followed.

Most cruise ships are incredibly clean though, so if you’d like to put your mind at rest before your next cruise, be sure to take a look at this list of the cleanest cruise ships in the world.

Understanding Cruise Ship Food Standards

While you may have heard stories of cruise ships secretly adding laxatives to their passengers’ food in cruise forums, these are just rumours.

There’s no concrete evidence to support these claims. It’s highly unlikely that cruise ships would resort to such measures, given the strict regulations and inspections they are subjected to.

Rest assured, cruise ship food standards are stringent. They aim to provide a safe and enjoyable dining experience for all their guests. So, while it’s essential to be cautious about what you eat and how you avoid germs, it’s also important not to let unfounded rumours spoil your cruise experience.

How To Deal with Unexpected Food-Related Problems on Board

Food-related issues on a cruise ship can range from minor digestive discomfort to serious illnesses. While the myth of laxatives in food is debunked, over-indulgence in the rich and diverse food offerings can indeed lead to bowel problems.

This is not due to the cruise line adding anything to the food, but rather a result of poor dietary choices and portion control.

It’s important to be mindful of your eating habits while on board. Moderation is key, and it’s recommended to balance indulgent meals with healthier options.

In case of any food-related problems, cruise ships have medical facilities on board equipped to handle most situations. But if you’re worried about being caught short, then you may wish to pack some medication in your bag, just in case.

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A Guide To This Unique Cruise Line

April 19, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Nicko Cruises

You may have heard of Nicko Cruises and are wondering what they offer…

Originally a river cruise line, Nicko Cruises has now ventured into the ocean cruise market. Having spent the day onboard Nicko Cruises’ Vasco Da Gama, I decided to put everything I learned into this useful guide.

Me with Nicko Cruises ship, Vasco Da Gama

So, if you’re curious about Nicko Cruises, keep reading. I have all the details here for you…

Introducing Nicko Cruises

Nicko Cruises is a German cruise line that has evolved from a river cruise line into offering ocean cruises with its classic cruise ship, Vasco Da Gama, which launched in 2021.

The cruise line focuses on ‘slow cruising’, giving guests plenty of time to explore each of the places that they visit. The ships are spacious and with lots of peace and quiet, offering a relaxing experience.

On board Nicko Cruises ships, both German and English are spoken. If there are tour groups from other countries onboard, announcements will be made in their language too.

The History Of Nicko Cruises

Nicko Cruises was founded by the German Ekkehard Beller as Nicko Tours in 1992, offering river cruises on the Volga River in Russia.

In 2015, Nicko Cruises ran out of cash and filed for bankruptcy. The company was taken over by a Portuguese businessman called Mario Ferreira, who rebranded the company as Nicko Cruises Flussreisen GmbH. (Flussreisen means ‘river travel’ in German).

In 2018, with a planned entry into the ocean cruise market, the company was renamed as Nicko Cruises Schiffsreisen GmbH. (Schiffsreisen means ‘ship travel’ in German).

Post-acquisition, Nicko Cruises further expanded its fleet, incorporating modern river ships with state-of-the-art amenities. The company now offers a diverse range of cruise experiences, including traditional river cruises on the waterways of Europe, Asia, the Nile, the Mississippi and also on the Baltic Sea and Dalmatian Coasts. The ocean ship Vasco Da Gama offers a wide range of itineraries from four to 183 days.

Nicko Cruises Owner

Nicko Cruises is owned by Mystic Invest, a Portuguese holding company with various interests in the tourism and maritime sectors.

The company was started in 1993 by Mário Ferreira, with the establishment of a Portuguese river cruising company called DouroAzul. Other brands under Mystic Invest include Mystic Cruises – a Portuguese company offering luxury expedition cruises to the Antarctic – and Atlas Ocean Voyages – offering luxury yacht-style expeditions.

In 2022, Mário Ferreira became the first Portuguese person to travel to space aboard Jeff Bezos’ rocket, along with five other wealthy space tourists.

Nicko River Cruises Fleet

Nicko Cruises has a large fleet of 20 river cruise ships. This diverse fleet ranges from small yachts accommodating just 40 guests to large river cruise ships with space for over 400 guests. Each provides the same level of luxury that you would expect from a boutique four- or five-star hotel.

River	Ships	Guests
Danube	nickoVISION, MAXIMA, nickoSPIRIT, VIKTORIA, BELVEDERE, BOLERO, BELLEJOUR	170 to 220
Rhine	nickoSPIRIT, RHEIN SYMPHONIE, BELVEDERE, RHEIN MELODIE, CASANOVA	96 to 196
Douro	DOOURO QUEEN, DOURO SERENITY	126 to 130
French Waterways	BIJOU DU RHONE, SEINE COMTESSE	150
Elbe & Oder	KATHARINA VON BORA	80
Dalmatian Coast	PRINCESS	40
Mekong	MEKONG NAVIGATOR	68
Nile	STEIGENBERGER LEGACY, STEIGENBERGER OMAR EL KHAYAM, STEIGENBERGER MINERVA, NILE MONARCH	84 to 160

Nicko Ocean Cruises Fleet

Vasco Da Gama

Nicko Cruises has only one ocean ship – Vasco Da Gama. The ship began sailing in 1993 for Holland America Line as MS Statendam. She has previously sailed as Pacific Eden for P&O Cruises Australia and as Vasco Da Gama for the now-defunct Cruise & Maritime Voyages.

When CMV went bust in 2020, Vasco Da Gama was sold at auction for just over $10 million and adopted by Nicko Cruises.

World Voyager

Nicko Cruises also has a second ship, World Voyager. A new-build small luxury cruise ship accommodating just 200 guests, World Voyager entered service in 2020. Offering high-ticket expedition cruises after the pandemic and through the recession in Germany, Nicko Cruises struggled to make the ship profitable.

She completed her last voyage for the cruise line in September 2023 and has now been transferred to sister company Atlantic Ocean Voyages, where it will cater to the American market on sailings to Antarctica.

What To Expect On A Nicko Cruise

Here’s an overview of what life is like onboard Nicko cruises…

Time To Discover

Enjoy cruising at a slower pace, with more time for on-board relaxation and shore excursions. You’ll have plenty of time to relax and take in your surroundings.

A Relaxing Ambience

Enjoy spacious sun decks, relaxing retreat areas, small and exclusive spas and quiet reading areas and lounges. Clear-cut lines, pale colours and modern fabrics create a pleasant atmosphere of understated luxury.

Interesting Menus

Nicko Cruises’ chefs offer various menus with a mix of international and regional specialities in the buffet as well as the main dining room. Every cruise features a festive gala dinner.

All-inclusive Value

Whether you book an ocean cruise or a river cruise, Nicko Cruises offers very good value for money, with a lot included in the cruise fare.

Packages include flights or Eurostar rail travel from the UK as well as port fees and taxes, onboard gratuities and wifi. All meals are included, as well as afternoon teas and snacks. Your cruise also comes with a drinks package included, so you can enjoy a selection of drinks at no extra charge.

Two hands clinking champagne flutes, one with clear bubbly and the other with a pink hue, in a celebratory toast. The background is softly blurred, with hints of a festive Christmas tree, suggesting a warm, holiday celebration.

Children’s Facilities

If you cruise on Vasco Da Gama in the school holidays, your children can enjoy the kids club with indoor and outdoor areas. The great news for parents is that kids aged 16 and under cruise for free, making this a great value option for families.

Final Word

Traditionally, Nicko Cruises was for the German market. But nowadays, the cruise line also offers a great selection of ocean and river cruises for UK-based cruisers.

For more information or to book, I recommend that you contact Light Blue Travel, Nicko Cruises’ partner in the UK.

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Princess Cruises Hikes Package Prices But With ONE Important Caveat

April 19, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News News

Princess Cruises has announced a price hike for its Princess Plus and Princess Premier cruise packages – although it won’t impact every guest.

Starting from 1st May 2025, guests who add the package to their fare while onboard will now pay a higher fee – with $5 per day added to both the Plus and Premier packages.

This fleetwide price adjustment means that booking these bundled deals in advance is now more important than ever if you’re looking to save.

New Pricing Breakdown

Package	Pre-Cruise Price	Onboard Price (from 1st May)
Princess Plus	$60 per person, per day	$65 per person, per day
Princess Premier	$90 per person, per day	$95 per person, per day

The change doesn’t affect the content of the packages – only the price for those who purchase after embarkation, which can still be done up until day two of the cruise.

For those sailing longer trips, the $5/day increase adds up quickly – a 14-night voyage could cost $70 more per guest.

By securing your Princess Plus or Premier bundle before setting sail, you:

Lock in the lower rate
Avoid last-minute surprises
Start using your benefits from day one

What Each Package Includes

Princess Plus ($60/day pre-cruise)

Plus Beverage Package (drinks up to $15 each)
WiFi (1 device per guest)
Gratuities (daily crew appreciation)
2 Premium Desserts per day
2 Fitness Classes per cruise
Unlimited Juice Bar access

Princess Premier ($90/day pre-cruise)

Everything in Plus, as well as:

Drinks up to $20 each, with premium spirits & cocktails
WiFi for 4 devices
2 Specialty Dining Meals
Unlimited Premium Desserts
Unlimited Fitness Classes
Reserved Princess Theater Seating
3 Photo Prints or Digital Downloads
Medallion Accessory
Entry into Princess Prizes Program (win onboard credit, excursions, even free cruises!)

Princess Cruises claims that the Plus package has a $93 per day value, while the Premier package is worth $220 per day. Of course, that depends entirely on how much you would make use of every benefit in the package.

If you would be using the drinks package every day, and like to have WiFi, then generally getting at least the Plus package will make sense.

But with the new changes, it’s super important to make that decision before the end of embarkation day – otherwise you could end up spending a lot more than you need to.

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A Quick Guide To Cruise Ship Picture Windows

April 19, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News First time cruisers

Considering booking a cruise with a picture window? If you’ve never heard the term, you might not be sure what you’re actually getting. Some people get confused, so I’m here to demystify everything and make it really clear what a picture window room is on a cruise ship!

Picture Windows Explained

A picture window on a cruise ship is simply a large, rectangular window. It offers a better view than a porthole room, but not quite as good as staterooms that have floor-to-ceiling windows. Picture windows vary in size but offer a good amount of natural light.

There are some people who get a little confused by the name and think that it’s a picture of a window, or some other type of fake window.

That’s exactly what this person thought:

A facebook of a post of a confused person

Two person communicating through the comment section

Royal Caribbean does have something like this – some rooms have Virtual Balconies. These are where the wall has a large picture showing a live image of the sea, so it’s like having a balcony in your room, despite being an inside stateroom.

Inside Stateroom with Virtual Balcony Cat. J - Room #9259 - Deck 9 Midship Navigator of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International

That’s not a picture window though – a cabin or stateroom with a picture window is just a regular ocean view cabin, with a square or rectangular window.

Picture Window Vs Regular Window

A picture window is the same as a regular window you’d have at home. The name doesn’t mean anything special – it just helps to differentiate between rooms with a porthole. Picture windows are preferred since you get a better view and more natural light.

Porthole rooms should be avoided if you can. A porthole might sound fun, but they’re often small, and sometimes you can barely see out of them, especially if they’re thick (so you get less peripheral view through them).

Room with a porthole on Ambition cruise ship

Always check the deck plans of your ship, because sometimes when booking an ocean view stateroom or cabin, you might find that it is offered with “either a porthole or a picture window”. For these, you’ll need to check which cabins on the deck plans are marked as having a porthole, so you can steer clear.

Generally, portholes are found on the very lowest decks, often at the front and aft of the ship. Picture windows are on cabins in a mid-ship location or on a couple of higher decks, before the cruise ship starts using balconies for its outside-facing rooms.

Some ocean view rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, where the window literally takes up the entire wall from the floor to the ceiling. These are better than a picture window, but they’re not super common. Picture windows make up most of the windows in ocean view rooms on most cruise lines.

Cruise Ship Windows Don’t Open

You won’t be able to open any windows in your cruise ship cabin. They’re always sealed shut. Picture window cabins tend to be on lower decks, so being able to open them would put you at risk of splashes from the waves.

If you want fresh air in your room, you’ll need to choose a balcony cabin – these are higher up the ship, and have doors which open up to allow you out onto your own balcony space.

On a river cruise ship, you may have a French balcony, which is essentially a large window that you can slide down. That’s because you don’t get the same kind of waves on a river as you do on the ocean.

Drop down french balcony on scenic amber

But if you’re booking an ocean view cabin with a picture window, you’ll get the view and the sunlight, but for fresh air, you’ll need to head to the open decks.

Final Word

There’s nothing particularly exciting about a picture window – it’s just the cruise ship term for a standard window, really. But it’s good to know exactly what you’re getting – and why it’s better than a porthole cabin.

If you want the best view, but you don’t want to pay for a balcony, then try to find a cabin with floor-to-ceiling windows. Or if sailing on a newer Royal Caribbean ship, and you don’t mind ‘fake’ light, then a Virtual Balcony might be a good choice.

But for affordable cruising with a bit of a view and some natural sunlight, a picture window cabin is a great choice. And if your window has a seat, then even better.

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Cruise Musician Reveals The One Item Passengers Are Permitted But Crew Aren’t!

April 19, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News News

Cruise crew members broadly follow the same rules as passengers when it comes to permitted items in cabins. But a former worker has revealed the one unusual item that workers are banned from using, despite guests having permission.

After a day full of adventure, relaxation, and indulgent dining, cruise passengers can often wind down with a cosy cup of tea in their cabins.

But for the hardworking staff below deck? That same luxury isn’t always allowed.

In a revealing interview with Express.co.uk, a former cruise musician shared one of the lesser-known disparities between passengers and crew: crew members are banned from having kettles in their cabins, while passengers on certain cruise lines are offered them as standard.

“Passengers are allowed kettles in their room if they want to make tea or anything like that. And that’s one thing crews were not allowed,”

While some staff members have tried sneaking small kettles onboard, the rules are clear – most electronics, including heating devices like kettles and irons, are prohibited for crew due to safety concerns.

One former case of a phone overheating on paper and starting a fire only reinforced the need for strict enforcement.

In fact, new crew are typically required to hand over their electronic devices and chargers for inspection upon boarding.

There are several cruise lines that do provide kettles for passengers in cabins. These include:

P&O Cruises
Marella Cruises
Celebrity Cruises
Cunard
Princess Cruises (usually on UK sailings only)
MSC (on UK sailings only)
Royal Caribbean (on UK sailings only)

With other cruise lines, you may be able to request a kettle but you shouldn’t expect to get one, and you would be barred from bringing your own onboard.

Still, according to this former cruise musician, one of the above cruise lines allows guests to have kettles but bars the crew from enjoying the freedom to make their own hot drinks.

The former staffer did acknowledge that, while a surprising rule, it was clear that guest comfort always took priority over that of the crew.

“Cabin passengers don’t really have rules… they are always right. It’s still a business, so how they manage their business is to keep the passengers happy.”

Whether it’s for a morning brew or a bedtime tea, passengers can sip in comfort – while crew members often rely on designated staff areas for their caffeine fix.

It’s just one of the many behind-the-scenes differences that highlight the working realities of life at sea.

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Option One: Dover Port Parking Ltd.

Option Two: Relyon Cruise Parking

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The Best Place to Park Your Car in Dover for a Cruise

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1. Parking at Rosyth Cruise Terminal

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From Edinburgh and the South

Follow signs for Queensferry Crossing and M90 to Perth. Cross the Queensferry Crossing and exit on the first slip road immediately after crossing the bridge.

At the roundabout, take the first left towards Port of Rosyth. Follow this road for approximately 1.5 miles then, at the roundabout, take the second exit following signs marked ‘Cruise’.

After about 200m, at the next roundabout, take the second exit and follow the road until you reach the Port Gatehouse.

From Aberdeen, Dundee and the North

Leave the M90 at J1B. Take the B981 exit for Inverkeithing/North Queensferry.

At the roundabout, take the third exit on to the B981. At the next roundabout, take the second exit, following the yellow cruise signs.

At the next roundabout, continue straight on to Keith Road and then turn left in to the Port of Rosyth.

From Glasgow and the West

From the M8, follow signs for Queensferry Crossing and follow the same directions as from the North.

From the M9, follow signs for Kincardine Bridge onto the A985 to Rosyth. At the first roundabout, turn right and follow the signs for Rosyth.

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Princess Plus ($60/day pre-cruise)

Princess Premier ($90/day pre-cruise)

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