Cruise ship docked at a port terminal, where Royal Caribbean The Key guests get priority boarding

Royal Caribbean The Key: Perks, Prices and Is It Worth It?

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsRoyal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean The Key is a paid add-on that gives you priority boarding, carry-on bag delivery, a private welcome lunch, reserved show seating, fast-lane access to some activities and a one-device VOOM internet package. It is priced per person, per day, usually somewhere between about $25 and $60 depending on the ship and sailing, and everyone aged 6 and over in the reservation has to buy it. For most cruisers it is worth it only if you were already going to pay for internet and the extra cost on top of that is small.

Below you will find what The Key includes today, how the pricing works, which ships it suits best and a simple value calculator you can use with the price shown in your own Cruise Planner.

What Is Royal Caribbean The Key?

The Key is Royal Caribbean’s pay-for-perks package, sometimes described as a “VIP lite” option. It does not change your cabin or your loyalty status. Instead, it smooths out the most crowded moments of a cruise: getting on the ship, finding lunch on day one, finding a seat at popular shows, getting off at tender ports and leaving on the last morning.

You buy it before you sail through the Cruise Planner in your Royal Caribbean account or the app. Royal Caribbean says it is not sold onboard, it may not be offered on every sailing and benefits can vary by ship and destination.

The Key Benefits: What You Get

At the time of writing, Royal Caribbean lists these benefits for The Key:

  • Priority terminal access. You get a dedicated Key arrival time by email, usually well before general boarding. Royal Caribbean notes priority access is not offered in Vancouver, Singapore or Australian ports.
  • Carry-on bag drop-off. Up to two carry-ons per guest (25 lb or less each) are taken from you and delivered to your stateroom, so you can explore without dragging bags around.
  • Exclusive welcome lunch. A seated lunch in the Main Dining Room on embarkation day, roughly 12:00 to 1:30 pm, with a menu inspired by Chops Grille.
  • Internet included. One VOOM high-speed internet package (one device) per guest for the cruise.
  • Dedicated show seating. Reserved sections in the main theater, AquaTheater, Studio B ice shows and Two70 where offered. On Oasis and Quantum class ships you still need to make show reservations.
  • Fast lane access at select onboard activities.
  • Priority tender departure at ports where the ship anchors offshore.
  • Discounts. 20% off specialty dining if you book on day 1, 50% off select onboard sports activities, and $60 off spa services when you spend $250 or more.
  • Debarkation day. An exclusive a la carte breakfast and your choice of departure time.

Perks have shifted over the years. In 2025, for example, the private FlowRider session that used to be included was replaced with a sports activity discount, and on Icon of the Seas some guests have reported private sea-day time slots at attractions such as the ice rink. Always check the current list on the product page in your Cruise Planner before you pay.

What The Key does not include

The Key does not include drinks, specialty dining (only a discount), shore excursions, gratuities or any private beach club access. It also does not give you Perfect Day at CocoCay extras such as cabanas or the Coco Beach Club, and it is not a substitute for the Royal Beach Club, which is sold separately. If drinks are your bigger spend, our guide to cruise drink package loopholes that still work will save you more than The Key ever will.

Passengers walking through a cruise terminal toward a large ship on embarkation day
Priority boarding is the headline perk of The Key. Photo: Diego F. Parra on Pexels

How Much Does The Key Cost?

The Key uses dynamic pricing, so there is no single fleet-wide price. What you pay depends on the ship, itinerary, season and how close to sailing you buy. As a rough guide:

Ship type Typical price per person, per day Notes
Older and mid-size ships (Voyager, Freedom, Radiance, Vision class) About $25 to $40 Short Bahamas sailings are often the cheapest
Oasis and Quantum class About $40 to $50 Show reservations still required
Icon class (Icon, Star, Legend of the Seas) About $50 to $60 Often the highest prices and fastest sell-outs

These are typical ranges reported in late 2025 and 2026, not guaranteed prices. Cruise Critic, for example, reported $54.99 per person per day on a seven-night Icon of the Seas sailing, which came to more than $1,150 for a cabin of three.

The whole-cabin rule and kids pricing

The biggest cost driver is that every guest aged 6 and over on the reservation must buy The Key for anyone to get the benefits. There is no separate child rate, so a family of four with two kids over 6 pays four full prices. Children under 6 are not required to buy it. This rule is why The Key works out far better for couples than for families.

Limited availability and sell-outs

Royal Caribbean caps the number of Key passes on each sailing so the perks stay meaningful. On busy ships, especially the Icon class and holiday sailings, The Key can sell out weeks before departure. If you are on the fence, it is worth watching the price in your Cruise Planner: prices sometimes dip during Cruise Planner sales and sometimes rise as availability shrinks.

Is The Key Worth It on Royal Caribbean? A Value Calculator

The easiest way to decide is to separate the benefits you would pay for anyway from the ones that are simply nice to have. For most people, the only benefit with a clear cash value is the internet package.

  1. Find the daily Key price for your sailing in the Cruise Planner.
  2. Find the daily price of a one-device VOOM Surf + Stream package on the same sailing. Pre-cruise prices are often around $18 to $30 per day.
  3. Subtract the internet price from the Key price. The difference is what you are really paying for boarding, lunch, show seats and the rest.
  4. Multiply by the number of nights and the number of guests aged 6+.
  5. Ask yourself whether that final figure is worth less waiting and less stress to your group.

Here is how that looks on two example seven-night sailings for two adults. The prices are illustrative, so swap in your own.

Example A: mid-size ship Example B: Icon class ship
The Key per person, per day $32 $55
VOOM internet per person, per day $22 $25
Real cost of the extra perks per person, per day $10 $30
Extra cost for two guests, seven nights $140 $420
Possible specialty dining saving (20% off two dinners for two) About $40 to $60 About $40 to $60
Net cost of the “VIP” perks Roughly $80 to $100 Roughly $360 to $380

In Example A, The Key costs barely more than buying internet for two, so it is an easy yes for many couples. In Example B, you are paying several hundred dollars for convenience, which can still make sense on a crowded mega-ship, but it is a genuine luxury rather than a bargain.

Audience seated in a large theater watching a stage performance on a cruise ship
Reserved show seating matters most on the biggest ships. Photo: Monica Silvestre on Pexels

When The Key Is Worth It (and When to Skip It)

The Key is usually worth it if

  • You were going to buy internet for everyone anyway and the price gap is small.
  • You are sailing on a busy Oasis or Icon class ship where show seating and lines are a real issue. If you are choosing between the newest ships, our Star of the Seas vs Utopia of the Seas comparison covers how crowded each feels.
  • Your itinerary has several tender ports, where priority departure can save a lot of time.
  • You are a couple or solo traveler, so the whole-cabin rule does not multiply the cost.
  • You want a calm first day. Early boarding and a seated lunch help you avoid the classic first-day cruise mistakes like queuing for the buffet with your bags.

You can probably skip it if

  • You are a family with several children aged 6 or older.
  • You are booked in a suite. Royal Suite Class guests already get priority boarding, dedicated dining or lounges and, at higher tiers, included internet and other perks that overlap heavily.
  • You have high Crown and Anchor status. Higher tiers include some priority boarding and internet discounts, so the extra value shrinks.
  • You do not need internet onboard and do not mind boarding at your normal time.
  • You are on a short cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay with no tender ports and you plan to spend most of your time ashore.

How to Buy The Key

Log in to your Royal Caribbean account or app, open the Cruise Planner for your sailing, and look under packages or experiences. Every eligible guest in the reservation needs to be added. If you have already bought internet and then switch to The Key, check whether you need to cancel the internet package separately to avoid paying twice. Once onboard, your SeaPass card should show a Key icon; if it does not, ask Guest Services. You can find the full official terms on Royal Caribbean’s The Key FAQ.

Before paying for The Key, it is worth checking how junior suites and full suites compare with a balcony, since some suite tiers include similar perks.

FAQs

How much does The Key cost on Royal Caribbean?

Prices vary by ship and sailing, but most guests see roughly $25 to $60 per person, per day. Icon class ships are usually at the top of that range.

Do all guests in the cabin have to buy The Key?

Yes. Every guest aged 6 and older on the reservation must buy The Key for the benefits to apply. Children under 6 do not need to buy it.

What time can you board with The Key?

Key guests receive a priority arrival time by email before sailing. It is usually late morning, ahead of most general boarding times, but it varies by port and ship.

Can you buy The Key onboard?

No. Royal Caribbean says The Key is only sold before the cruise through the Cruise Planner, and passes are limited, so it can sell out.

Does The Key include drinks or specialty dining?

No. It includes a welcome lunch and a final-morning breakfast, plus a 20% specialty dining discount if you book on day 1, but no drinks package.

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Hurricane Beryl To Wreak Havoc On Cruise Itineraries As She Reaches Category 4

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Hurricane Beryl, the first official hurricane of the 2024 season, has already started to impact several cruise itineraries in the Caribbean.

Tropical hurricane

The storm reached Category 4 status on Sunday, the only hurricane to ever do so in June. Typically the first hurricane in a season appears in early August.

She’s now considered life-threatening and is heading into the heart of the Caribbean, with the expectation that she will continue to power through the region throughout the first half of this week.

Already some cruise lines have communicated with guests to let them know of changes to their itinerary, including Celebrity Cruises and NCL, writing to guests to inform them of port changes.

For now no cruise lines have cancelled sailings – typically during hurricane season most ships will aim to sail, even if they completely change their planned itinerary to avoid the ports in the path of the storm.

Guests will be able to claim refunds for any excursions they’ve booked for cancelled ports, but typically they won’t be due any other compensation. This is a risk that guests take when booking cruises during hurricane season.

Of course, any guests who’ve booked travel insurance with optional missed port cover can claim on their policy, even if the ports are replaced with alternatives.

Any guests with cruises in the Caribbean during hurricane season are advised to follow social media accounts for their cruise line, and keep an eye out for emails, to stay on top of any updates to their cruise.

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Large cruise ship sailing past a glacier, the kind of scenic route Holland America ships are known for

Holland America Ships Ranked: All 11 Ships, Best to Worst (2026 Guide)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsHolland America Line

Quick answer: When Holland America ships are ranked by size, age, recent investment and what passengers say in public reviews, the three Pinnacle Class ships (Koningsdam, Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam) usually come out on top. The two Signature Class ships come next. The four Vista Class ships and the two smaller R Class ships follow, though recent and planned refits are narrowing that gap. The right ship for you still depends on where you want to go and how long you want to be away.

This guide ranks all 11 ships in the current fleet. They are grouped by class below, with our overall rank next to each name. We have not collected our own review scores. The order below is our reading of public information: build year, size, refurbishment history, and the themes that keep coming up in published review roundups from Cruise Critic and Cruiseline.com. Ratings on those sites change all the time, and the gaps between ships are often very small, so treat any ranking (ours included) as a starting point rather than a verdict.

Holland America ships ranked: how we built this list

We weighted four things:

  • Age and class. Newer ships have the latest venues, more suites and fewer signs of wear.
  • Recent and planned refits. A fresh dry dock can lift an older ship a long way. A refit that is only scheduled counts for less.
  • Public review themes. We looked at what reviewers praise and criticise in Cruise Critic’s member-review ranking (last updated January 2026) and Cruiseline.com’s “Best Holland America Line Ships of 2026” list. Both are based on passenger reviews, and both shift as new reviews arrive.
  • Fit for purpose. A smaller, older ship can be the better choice for a long voyage or a port-heavy itinerary.

For context, Cruise Critic’s member-review ranking puts Koningsdam, Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam at the top, with Volendam, Zuiderdam and Noordam at the bottom. It gives positions only, not scores. Cruiseline.com’s 2026 community list publishes scores, but they are packed tightly together: Koningsdam leads at 4.152 and Eurodam is ninth at 4.131. A gap that small means one good or bad sailing can reshuffle the order.

Holland America fleet at a glance

Our rank Ship Class Entered service Approx. guests Recent or planned work
1 Koningsdam Pinnacle 2016 2,650 Newest-generation design
2 Rotterdam Pinnacle 2021 2,650 Newest ship in the fleet
3 Nieuw Statendam Pinnacle 2018 2,650 Newest-generation design
4 Nieuw Amsterdam Signature 2010 2,100 Included in the Holland America Evolution programme
5 Eurodam Signature 2008 2,100 Included in Evolution; Cruiseline.com reported a 2026 refurbishment was scheduled
6 Oosterdam Vista 2003 1,900 2025 refresh; first Evolution ship, back in service October 31, 2027
7 Westerdam Vista 2004 1,900 Included in Evolution
8 Zaandam R Class 2000 1,430 2025 dry dock added a Greenhouse Spa
9 Noordam Vista 2006 1,900 Refurbished December 2024; included in Evolution
10 Zuiderdam Vista 2002 1,900 Recent dry dock; Evolution debut planned for April 2028
11 Volendam R Class 1999 1,430 Winter 2024 dry dock upgraded cabins and public areas

Guest numbers are lower-berth figures, rounded. Exact figures vary slightly by source.

Private balcony on a modern cruise ship looking out over calm blue ocean
Newer ships tend to offer more balcony cabins and suites. Photo: Renata B. on Pexels

Pinnacle Class: the best Holland America ships for most travellers

Koningsdam (2016): our #1

Koningsdam is the ship that most often tops passenger-review rankings, and it leads both the Cruise Critic and Cruiseline.com lists. Reviewers keep mentioning the Music Walk venues (B.B. King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Rock Room), the World Stage, and Club Orange’s private restaurant for suite-level guests. It is also a regular in Alaska, with 7-day Inside Passage sailings from Vancouver in the 2027 season. Its weak point is the one shared by all Pinnacle ships: at around 2,650 guests, it is busier than the older ships, especially around the Lido buffet on sea days.

Rotterdam (2021): our #2

Rotterdam is the newest ship in the fleet and is often described as the line’s flagship. Cruise Critic members praise its cleanliness, service, Club Orange dining and the live music. If you want the most up-to-date Holland America ship and don’t mind a larger vessel, this is the safest pick. Reviews do vary with itinerary and season, as they do on every ship.

Nieuw Statendam (2018): our #3

Nieuw Statendam is a near twin of Koningsdam, with the same entertainment line-up and a similar layout. Reviewers praise its live music, condition and value. Some longtime Holland America passengers have said dining across the fleet has slipped in recent years, but several Nieuw Statendam reviewers said the food on this ship had held up well.

Signature Class: Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam

Nieuw Amsterdam (2010): our #4

The two Signature ships sit in the middle on size, at around 2,100 guests. They are a little more traditional than Pinnacle ships, but still have the Music Walk concept and a good choice of restaurants. Nieuw Amsterdam is a mainstay in Alaska, sailing the one-way Glacier Discovery routes between Vancouver and Whittier (for Anchorage) that include Glacier Bay. Both Signature ships are part of Holland America Evolution, the more than US$500 million refurbishment programme announced in April 2026. Their exact refit dates had not been confirmed at the time of writing.

Eurodam (2008): our #5

Eurodam ranks just behind its sister. Cruiseline.com placed it ninth in its 2026 community list and reported a refurbishment scheduled for 2026. In 2027 it sails 7-day Alaska Explorer cruises from Seattle that include Glacier Bay and Icy Strait Point. If you like the Signature size and feel, check the ship’s dry dock dates before you book, because a newly refreshed ship is a better buy.

Vista Class: older ships with big changes coming

The four Vista ships were built between 2002 and 2006 for about 1,900 guests. They are the ships most affected by the Evolution programme, which adds Pinnacle-style features such as the Grand Dutch Café, Vista Suites, forward-facing Bridgeview Suites and Solo Verandah cabins with balconies for single travellers.

Oosterdam (2003): our #6

Oosterdam had a refresh in 2025 that included a redesigned Crow’s Nest, casino and Greenhouse Spa, which helped lift it to third in Cruiseline.com’s 2026 list. It is also the first ship in Holland America Evolution. In September 2026 the line moved the work forward by five weeks. The refit takes place in Marseille, voyages from September 11 to December 9, 2027 were cancelled, and the ship returns on October 31, 2027 with a 10-day Rome (Civitavecchia) to Trieste cruise. The rebuilt Oosterdam gets 76 new staterooms and suites, including a 1,550 sq ft Pinnacle Suite, which Holland America says will be the largest on any Vista Class ship. If you are booking for late 2027 or after, Oosterdam could well be the best Vista ship to choose.

Westerdam (2004): our #7

Westerdam does well in community rankings for its classic layout and manageable size. In 2027 it sails Glacier Discovery routes in Alaska alongside Nieuw Amsterdam. It is also part of Evolution, so expect changes in the coming years.

Noordam (2006): our #9

Noordam is the most adventurous Vista ship on paper. Its 2027 Alaska programme includes a 28-day Arctic Circle voyage, a 14-day Great Alaska Explorer and Great Bear Rainforest sailings. Cruise Critic’s member reviews are less kind: they mention an ageing ship, thinner entertainment and slow buffet service. A December 2024 refurbishment may have helped with the ship’s appearance. Book Noordam for the route, not the ship.

Zuiderdam (2002): our #10

Zuiderdam is the oldest Vista ship. Cruise Critic reviewers have reported cabin noise, worn fittings and average dining, though some praised the Pinnacle Grill. It completed a dry dock recently, and Holland America plans to relaunch it after its Evolution work in April 2028 with 14 Vista Suites, 32 Solo Verandahs, two Bridgeview Suites and what the line calls the largest Grand Dutch Café in the programme. Its ranking is likely to rise once that work is done.

Empty teak deck with loungers on a cruise ship facing the open sea
Smaller, older ships suit long voyages with many sea days. Photo: www.EPiC VIDEO.es🎥 on Pexels

R Class: Zaandam and Volendam

Zaandam (2000): our #8

Zaandam and Volendam are the smallest ships in the fleet, at around 1,430 guests. Zaandam had a dry dock in 2025 that added a Greenhouse Spa and Salon and refreshed the Neptune Lounge, and it ranked second in Cruiseline.com’s 2026 community list. Its size suits long, port-heavy trips. In 2027 it sails 7-day Inside Passage cruises and 18-day Great Bear Rainforest and Alaska Explorer voyages from Vancouver, and in 2028 it sails the 90-day Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage.

Volendam (1999): our #11

Volendam is the oldest ship in the fleet and sits at the bottom of Cruise Critic’s member ranking. Reviewers mention a tired Lido buffet, slow drink service and maintenance problems, even after a winter 2024 dry dock upgraded cabins and public areas. Holland America still trusts it with its most prestigious itinerary: the 129-day 2028 Grand World Voyage from Fort Lauderdale, calling at 45 ports in 26 countries. Its loyal following values the quieter atmosphere, the small-ship feel and the long-voyage community over the latest venues.

Best Holland America ship for your trip

  • Alaska: Six ships sail Alaska in 2027, the line’s 80th season there: Koningsdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Westerdam, Noordam and Zaandam. For the newest ship, pick Koningsdam from Vancouver. For a one-way Glacier Discovery cruise that pairs with a Denali land tour, pick Nieuw Amsterdam or Westerdam. For longer or more remote routes, look at Noordam or Zaandam. If you are still comparing lines, see our guide to choosing the best cruise line to Alaska.
  • Europe: Deployments change from year to year, so check the current schedule. A Pinnacle ship gives the most modern experience, and a post-refit Oosterdam will be worth a look for Mediterranean sailings from late 2027.
  • First-time Holland America cruisers: Koningsdam, Rotterdam or Nieuw Statendam. They show the line at its most current, with the full Music Walk, the most dining choice and the most cabin types.
  • Longer voyages and Grand Voyages: Volendam and Zaandam. Smaller ships with a strong community feel are what many long-voyage regulars prefer, and they are the ships Holland America uses for its 2028 Grand Voyages.
  • Solo travellers: Watch for ships coming out of Evolution, starting with Oosterdam in 2027 and Zuiderdam in 2028. Both are adding Solo Verandah cabins with balconies.

Whichever ship you pick, onboard extras make a real difference to the final cost. Our breakdown of whether Holland America drink packages are worth it can help you budget.

Holland America fleet news: Arcadia makes 12 ships in 2029

On October 6, 2026, Holland America announced that P&O Cruises’ Arcadia will transfer to the line in 2029, taking the fleet from 11 to 12 ships. Arcadia was built on the Vista Class platform, so it is a close relative of Oosterdam and its sisters, and it adds more than 2,000 berths. Holland America has said its venue plans are still to be decided, so it is too early to rank it. You can read more in our coverage of Holland America growing to 12 ships with Arcadia.

What reviewers say across the fleet

Some themes come up in reviews of almost every ship. Passengers consistently praise the live music, the crew and the line’s relaxed, unhurried style. Complaints tend to focus on Lido buffet quality and staffing, and on wear and tear on the older ships. A recent dry dock often makes more difference than a ship’s class, so before you book, check when the ship was last refurbished and read reviews posted since then. Read across several sites, too. Cruise Critic and Cruiseline.com draw on different reviewers and do not always agree, as the very different positions of Zaandam and Oosterdam on their lists show.

Still deciding on a cruise line? See how Holland America compares with Princess on fleets, food, entertainment and price.

If Eurodam is your pick, read our guide to Eurodam cabins to avoid and the best cabins to book.

Booking Koningsdam? Our guide to Koningsdam cabins to avoid flags the noisy spots and obstructed views.

FAQs

What is the best Holland America ship?

For most travellers it is a Pinnacle Class ship. Koningsdam currently leads both Cruise Critic’s member ranking and Cruiseline.com’s 2026 community list, with Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam close behind. Review rankings change, so check the latest before booking.

Which Holland America ships are the newest?

Rotterdam (2021) is the newest, followed by Nieuw Statendam (2018) and Koningsdam (2016). Volendam (1999) and Zaandam (2000) are the oldest.

What is the typical size range of Holland America ships?

From about 1,430 guests on the R Class ships to about 2,650 on the Pinnacle Class. That is mid-sized by modern cruise standards.

Which Holland America ship is best for Alaska?

Koningsdam is the newest ship sailing Alaska in 2027. Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam suit one-way cruises combined with a Denali land tour. Noordam and Zaandam offer the longest and most unusual Alaska routes.

Are Holland America cruise reviews good?

Generally yes. Reviewers praise the service, live music and calm atmosphere, while criticism centres on buffet food and the condition of older ships. Scores differ by ship and by review site, and they change over time.

River cruise ship sailing past a historic European riverside town, the setting for a Viking river cruise packing list

Viking River Cruise Packing List: What to Wear and What to Leave at Home (2026)

by Cruise LinesCruise Tips

A good Viking river cruise packing list is shorter than you might expect. Viking has no formal nights, so pack comfortable casual daywear, a few “elegant casual” outfits for dinner, layers and a rain jacket, and two pairs of broken-in walking shoes for cobblestones. Shampoo, a hair dryer and 110V/220V outlets are already in your stateroom, so leave those at home and keep your bag light.

This guide is built around Viking’s European longships (Rhine, Danube, Main, Seine, Rhône, Douro and the rest), with short notes on the Nile, Mekong and Mississippi. At the end there is a checklist you can print or screenshot.

Viking River Cruise Dress Code: What to Wear

The Viking river cruise dress code is relaxed. There are no formal nights on any Viking ship, and nobody will expect a tuxedo or gown.

  • Daytime: casual clothes for sightseeing, such as jeans, slacks, shorts in warm weather, a t-shirt or polo, and comfortable walking shoes.
  • Evenings: Viking describes evening wear as “elegant casual.” For women that might be a dress, skirt or slacks with a nice top or sweater. For men, trousers and a collared shirt work. Jackets and ties are optional.
  • Religious sites: some churches, cathedrals and temples ask that shoulders and knees be covered. A light scarf or cardigan in your day bag solves this.

Evenings on longships are generally more relaxed than on Viking’s ocean ships, and plenty of guests wear dark, tidy jeans to dinner. If you would feel more comfortable dressing up, a pair of chinos or a simple dress is always the safe choice. Many people wear something a little smarter for the Captain’s welcome or farewell dinner, but it is a personal choice and not a rule.

What to wear on a Viking river cruise by season

European river weather can change a lot between a morning in the Wachau Valley and an afternoon in Vienna, so plan in layers rather than bulky single pieces.

Season Typical conditions Pack
Spring (March to May) Cool mornings, mild days, frequent showers Light sweater or fleece, waterproof jacket, long pants, one warmer layer
Summer (June to August) Warm to hot, especially on the Danube, Rhône and Douro Breathable tops, shorts or linen pants, sun hat, sunscreen, light cover-up for churches, swimsuit if your ship has a pool
Fall (September to November) Crisp mornings, cooler evenings, rain likely Long sleeves, fleece or packable down vest, waterproof jacket, scarf
Christmas markets (late November to December) Cold, often near freezing, short daylight Warm coat, thermal base layers, hat, gloves, warm socks, waterproof boots with good grip

A simple rule: one base layer, one warm mid layer and one waterproof outer layer will cover most days from spring to fall. On sailings between March and November you can usually leave a heavy winter coat at home.

Shoes for Cobblestones and Gangways

If you pack only one thing carefully, make it your shoes. Viking’s included tours are mostly walking tours through old towns, and many of those streets are uneven cobblestones. You may also walk across another ship to reach the shore when vessels dock side by side.

  • Two pairs of supportive walking shoes or sneakers, already broken in. Two pairs let one dry out if it rains.
  • One pair of evening shoes such as loafers, flats or low wedges. Thin stilettos and cobblestones do not mix well.
  • Waterproof boots for a winter Christmas market sailing.
  • Sandals or slip-ons for the cabin and the sun deck in summer.

Viking offers different paced groups on many excursions, including a slower “leisurely” group, so if walking is hard for you, ask the crew. Good shoes still make a big difference.

Compact river cruise cabin with a made bed, wardrobe and large window onto the water
Longship cabins are compact, so a smaller suitcase is easier to live with. Photo: Tahir Osman on Pexels

What Viking Already Provides in Your Stateroom

A lot of packing lists tell you to bring items that are already on board. On Viking’s European longships you will typically find:

  • A hair dryer in every stateroom.
  • Toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, body wash and lotion from Viking’s Freyja range, plus soap and a shower cap, refilled as needed.
  • Robes and slippers: available, though on some ships you may need to ask at reception for them to be placed in your cabin.
  • Outlets for both US and European plugs: longship staterooms have 110V US-style outlets and 220V European outlets (Type C/F, the round two-pin style), along with a USB port. Most US travelers do not need a converter or even an adapter in the cabin, but you will need a Type C/F adapter for hotels on pre- or post-cruise stays.
  • A safe and a small refrigerator.
  • Umbrellas: Viking keeps complimentary umbrellas on board. They are large, so a small folding umbrella is still handy for full days ashore.
  • Tour headsets: each guest gets a personal audio device (often called the QuietVox system) so you can hear your guide on walking tours. It lives in your cabin with a charger. Bring your own wired earbuds if you find the standard earpiece uncomfortable.
  • Free Wi-Fi on European sailings. Speeds can drop in remote valleys and locks, so download films, maps and audiobooks before you go.

Leave clothes irons, steamers and hair straighteners at home. Viking lists heating appliances such as irons as prohibited, and extension cords are not allowed either. Curling irons are generally allowed. A small non-surge-protected USB charging hub is a good way to charge several devices from one outlet.

Luggage, Storage and Laundry on a Viking Longship

How much luggage can you bring?

Viking does not set a strict onboard luggage limit for river cruises, but the cabins are compact and your airline will apply its own rules. If Viking books your flights, check your airline’s allowance before you leave. Viking also publishes separate, stricter limits for some internal flights. For example, domestic flights in Egypt and on Mekong programs allow around 44 lb (20 kg) checked and 15 lb (7 kg) carry-on. For most Europe sailings, one medium checked suitcase and one carry-on per person is plenty.

Once you unpack, empty suitcases slide under the bed on most longships, and you have a wardrobe, shelves and drawers for clothes. Soft-sided bags are easier to squeeze into tight spaces than large hard-shell cases.

Laundry: service, not self-service

European longships offer a laundry and pressing service through your stateroom steward. It is charged per item, and it is complimentary for guests in some suite categories. There is no dry cleaning, and longships generally do not have self-service launderettes. Viking Mississippi is the exception, with free self-service laundry rooms. Many guests hand-wash small items, and longship bathrooms usually have a retractable clothesline in the shower.

Because laundry costs extra, the smart approach is to pack for about a week, choose quick-dry and wrinkle-resistant fabrics, and send out one bag of laundry halfway through a longer trip such as the 15-day Grand European Tour.

Open suitcase neatly packed with folded clothes, shoes and a travel pouch
Packing for about a week and using the laundry service keeps bags light. Photo: Kindel Media on Pexels

The Viking River Cruise Packing List (Printable Checklist)

Use this as a starting point for a 7 to 10-night European sailing in spring, summer or fall, and adjust for the season and your own habits.

Documents and money

  • Passport, valid for at least six months after your return
  • Viking cruise documents and luggage tags (printed or in the Viking app)
  • Travel insurance details
  • Credit card without foreign transaction fees and a backup card
  • Some euros (or local currency) in small notes for coffee, restrooms and guide tips
  • Copies of passport and prescriptions, stored separately

Clothing

  • 4 to 5 casual tops for touring
  • 2 to 3 pairs of pants, jeans or skirts (plus shorts in summer)
  • 2 to 3 “elegant casual” dinner outfits
  • 1 warm mid layer (fleece, cardigan or packable down)
  • 1 waterproof, packable rain jacket
  • Scarf or shawl for churches and cool evenings
  • Sleepwear, underwear and socks for about a week
  • Swimsuit if your ship has a pool or you plan to use a hotel spa
  • Hat, gloves and thermal layers for winter sailings

Shoes

  • 2 pairs of broken-in walking shoes
  • 1 pair of comfortable evening shoes
  • Sandals or slippers for the cabin and deck

Health and toiletries

  • Prescription medications in original packaging, in your carry-on
  • Pain relief, motion sickness tablets, blister plasters and stomach remedies
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, razor and makeup (shampoo and body wash are supplied)
  • Hand sanitizer and tissues

Tech and gear

  • Phone and charger, plus a power bank for long days ashore
  • Type C/F plug adapter for hotels before or after the cruise
  • Wired earbuds for the tour headset
  • Small daypack or crossbody bag with a zip
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Compact folding umbrella
  • Binoculars for castles and vineyards on scenic sailing days
  • Sunglasses
  • Kindle or downloaded entertainment

For eyewear ideas, see our guide to the best sunglasses for a cruise.

Packing Notes for the Nile, Mekong and Mississippi

Nile (Egypt)

Expect strong sun and heat for much of the year, with cooler desert evenings in winter. Pack loose, breathable long sleeves and long pants or skirts that cover shoulders and knees for mosques and temples, a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen and a swimsuit for the pool deck. Cabin outlets are mainly 220V/230V using round two-pin Europlugs, with some 110V outlets. Remember the tighter weight limits on Viking’s domestic flights in Egypt. If you are still choosing a sailing, read our round-up of the best Nile river cruise companies.

Mekong (Vietnam and Cambodia)

Hot and humid, so lightweight, quick-dry fabrics are essential. Bring insect repellent, modest clothing for temples and a hat. Outlets are 220V/230V with two-pin Europlugs. Internet access is very limited, so download what you need before you board. Check the internal flight limits of about 44 lb (20 kg) checked and 15 lb (7 kg) carry-on.

Mississippi

Viking Mississippi uses standard US 110V outlets, so no adapter is needed, and it has free self-service laundry, so you can pack lighter. Summers in the South are hot and humid, while spring and fall upper-river sailings can be cool, so pack layers.

Things You Do Not Need to Pack

  • Formal wear: there are no formal nights.
  • Hair dryer, shampoo and body wash: they are provided.
  • Clothes iron or steamer: these are not allowed. Use the pressing service.
  • Extension cords: not allowed.
  • A large stash of wine: beer, house wine and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Viking does allow you to bring your own alcohol on board without a corkage fee, so a bottle bought at a winery stop is fine.
  • Too many “just in case” outfits: the most common regret on a river cruise is overpacking for a small cabin.

If you plan to use your phone ashore, check your carrier’s international options before you go. Our look at whether the AT&T cruise package is worth it explains how cruise plans differ from standard international day passes, which usually work better for land-based river ports.

Heading on an ocean cruise instead? Our cruise packing tips for ocean ships cover banned items, carry-on essentials and cabin hacks.

If you enjoy a drink beyond what is served with meals, our Viking Silver Spirits package guide explains the cost and whether it is worth adding.

Heading on an ocean cruise as well? Our guide to the best cruise carry-on bag types covers sizes and what to keep with you.

FAQs

Is there a dress code on a Viking river cruise?

Yes, but it is relaxed. Days are casual, and evenings are “elegant casual,” such as slacks and a collared shirt, or a dress or nice top. There are no formal nights, and jackets and ties are optional.

Can I wear jeans to dinner on a Viking river cruise?

On European longships, neat, dark jeans are widely worn at dinner and are rarely a problem. If you want to blend in at the welcome or farewell dinner, bring one pair of chinos or a dress.

How much does laundry cost on a Viking river ship?

Longships charge per item for laundry and pressing through your steward, and prices are listed in your cabin. It is complimentary for some suite categories. Longships generally have no self-service laundry, but Viking Mississippi has free self-service laundry rooms.

Can you bring alcohol on a Viking river cruise?

Yes. Viking allows guests to bring their own wine and spirits on board and drink them in their stateroom or public areas without a corkage fee. Beer, house wine and soft drinks are also included with lunch and dinner.

Do I need a plug adapter on a Viking longship?

Usually not in your cabin. Longship staterooms have 110V US-style outlets as well as 220V European sockets and a USB port. Bring a Type C/F adapter for any hotel nights in Europe before or after the cruise.

wifi-on-po-cruses-ship-1.jpg

Everything You Need To Know About P&O Cruises’ WiFi (Including Cost & How To Buy)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsP&O Cruises

P&O Cruises don’t include WiFi in your cruise fare (pretty much no cruise line does), so if you want to use the internet while at sea, you’ll need to pay for it.

In this guide, I’ll show you all of the P&O Cruises internet packages and how to buy them, so that you can access the internet during your cruise without spending any more than you need to.

P&O Cruises wifi

But wait – do you even need WiFi?

Before you go ahead and buy a wifi package, let’s think about whether you actually need one or not…

Can you use mobile data?

Whenever the ship is docked, you’ll usually be able to access 3G, 4G or 5G data. Even since Brexit, many mobile phone providers let you use your standard data allowance in Europe for no extra cost.

Outside of Europe, you’ll likely have to pay for data on your phone. But this doesn’t always cost a lot, so be sure to check with your mobile network before you go.

You can also use mobile data while at sea, but I definitely would not recommend that. Once the ship leaves port, your phone will connect to a maritime network and it will cost you a lot.

You can understand how much data roaming at sea costs and why here: How to Avoid Roaming Charges on a Cruise.

You could try switching off…

Unless you have a family member or urgent business to worry about back home, you might consider turning your phone off while your ship is at sea.

Most cruises have no more than two consecutive sea days and it can be great to spend time connecting with the people you’re with without looking at your phone.

If there’s ever an emergency at home, your family members would be able to contact the ship and pass on a message.

The ‘My Holiday’ platform still works without WiFi

During your cruise, you can use P&O Cruises’ My Holiday to view your onboard account, make dining and theatre reservations, join virtual queues and book shore excursions.

The My Holiday planner isn’t an app, it’s a website. But you won’t need a WiFi package to access it, as you can do so using P&O Cruises’ limited free WiFi. Just connect to ‘P&OCruises_Guest_WIFI’ and then use your browser to visit myholiday.pocruises.com.

P&O Cruises Wifi Packages

If you’ve decided that you would like to have internet access during your P&O Cruise, here’s how you can arrange that…

P&O Cruises offer two different wifi packages, plus a ‘Pay Per Minute’ option:

1. Essential WiFi

Cost: £18 for 24 hours (or £12 per day for the whole cruise)

P&O Cruises’ Essential WiFi is only for social media, web browsing and email. So you can check your Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as well as send messages via WhatsApp.

With this package, it used to be the case that you couldn’t check your emails or browse the web for information. But, after some feedback from guests with complaints along the lines of “I bought the internet package and I can’t use the internet”, web browsing and email is now included.

2. Ultimate WiFi

Cost: £24 for 24 hours (or £18 per day for the whole cruise)

Ultimate WiFi gives you a faster connection and allows you to use voice and video calling, and stream music and video in addition to browsing the internet, sending emails and using social media and WhatsApp.

P&O Cruises wifi plans comparison

I’ve had a bad experience with the Ultimate WiFi before. I bought it on my late-2022 cruise on Arvia and it was so slow that it was virtually unusable. It wouldn’t allow me to upload videos to social media so I couldn’t update my Instagram stories.

On Christmas Day, the WiFididn’t work at all (I expect that was because of the increased number of guests wanting to use it).

But – and it’s an important but – the WiFi has been upgraded to Starlink since then, which is the speedy satellite WiFi that’s becoming standard across the fleet. So it should be much more reliable.

When’s best to buy the WiFi?

If you intend to buy a P&O Cruises WiFi package for your whole cruise, then you can buy before your cruise or once on board. 24-hour plans can only be purchased on board.

Sign on P&O Cruises ship with wifi.

Before you cruise

To buy a WiFi package before your cruise, you’ll need to log in to the P&O Cruises Planner. Alternatively, you can call P&O Cruises’ contact centre on 0344 338 8003 (local call charges apply).

Buying onboard

Once you’re onboard your P&O Cruises ship, it’s easy to buy a WiFi package. Just open the My Holiday planner and navigate to WiFi.

Alternatively, you can connect to the free guest WiFi, go to internet.pocruises.com and follow the on-screen instructions.

You’ll see all of the WiFi options along with prices. Just tap the one you want and it will be billed to your onboard account.

Sharing a WiFi package

One important thing to know about the P&O WiFi is that you can use it on multiple devices, so long as you don’t connect both devices at the same time. So if there are two of you, you can just purchase one package and take it in turns to use it.

This does, however, mean that you can’t use the WiFi to message each other while you’re on the ship. But, it can save you quite a lot of money.

p&o cruises wifi multiple devices

If you try to log in when the other person is already logged in, you can tap a button to kick them off the WiFi so you can use it.

There is a 10% discount for multiple devices, but this is only if two devices are registered to the same guest.

P&O Cruises wifi multiple devices

WiFi for medical devices

If you need internet access for medical reasons such as a continuous glucose monitoring device for diabetes, you can get this free of charge on P&O Cruises. Just ask at the reception desk on board for a free internet voucher.

No smartphone?

Most P&O Cruises ships have a library with public computers that you can use to access the internet if you don’t have a working smartphone or tablet. These are open 24 hours per day. However, the newer ships, Arvia and Iona do not have public computers.

Should you need to print anything off, you can do so in the library for 30p per sheet. A scanning service is also available at Guest Services.

Is the WiFi worth it?

WiFi at sea is never as fast as the WiFi that you’re used to at home, even with the Starlink upgrades. The speed that you’ll get depends on where you are on the ship and how many other people are using the WiFi at the same time.

There are always blackspots on cruise ships, so head to a public lounge for your best chance of getting a good signal.

But it won’t be as problematic now that Starlink is installed. You shouldn’t struggle to get online at all, especially if you pay for the Ultimate WiFi package – there might just be one or two spots where it’s a struggle.

Personally, I don’t think that buying WiFi for your whole cruise is worth it. There are lots more fun things to be doing on a cruise ship rather than looking at your phone!

But, if you really need to stay in touch on sea days, then buying a P&O Cruises’ WiFi package in 24-hour blocks is a good option.

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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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Private balcony with chairs overlooking the sea, the kind of balcony cabin Regal Princess guide readers compare

Regal Princess Cabins to Avoid (and the Best Cabins to Book)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsPrincess Cruises

The Regal Princess cabins to avoid are mainly starboard balconies on Decks 14 and 15 beneath the glass SeaWalk, cabins directly under the Lido Deck pool and buffet area on Deck 15, and Deck 8 cabins above Crooners bar. Deck 8 obstructed-view balconies over the lifeboats can also disappoint if you want a clear view down to the water. For most passengers, a midship balcony or mini-suite on Decks 9 to 12, with cabins above and below, is the safest choice.

Regal Princess is a Royal-class ship that launched in 2014, and around four in five of its cabins have a balcony. That makes choosing the location of your cabin more important than choosing the category. This guide covers every cabin type, the Regal Princess cabins to avoid, and the best cabins to book for 2026 and 2027.

Where Is Regal Princess Sailing in 2026 and 2027?

Knowing the itinerary helps you choose a cabin. Regal Princess spends 2026 sailing in the Caribbean year-round from Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale. In April 2027 it crosses the Atlantic for a season based in Southampton, UK. From there it sails to Northern Europe, Scandinavia, the Baltic, Iceland, the British Isles and the Mediterranean, and some itineraries can be combined. Princess has said the ship returns to North America in late August 2027 for Canada and New England cruises, followed by a winter season from Miami. Check princess.com for current dates, because deployments can change.

This matters for your cabin choice. On a Caribbean cruise you will use a balcony every day. On a Northern Europe or Canada and New England cruise, cooler evenings make a sheltered balcony worth paying for, while an exposed aft balcony gets less use.

Regal Princess Cabin Types at a Glance

The figures below are approximate total sizes, including the balcony where there is one. They come from published deck-plan data, and cabins within a category can vary a little.

Cabin type Approx. size Decks Worth knowing
Interior 166-175 sq ft 8-16 Cheapest option and very dark for sleeping. About 342 on board
Balcony About 222 sq ft (41 sq ft balcony) 8-16 The most common cabin. Chairs, but no sofa
Deluxe Balcony About 249-333 sq ft 8-16 Adds a small sofa bed. Some on Deck 8 are sold as obstructed view
Mini-Suite About 299-329 sq ft (36-105 sq ft balcony) 10-16 Sitting area with sofa bed, two TVs and a tub-shower combination
Reserve Collection Mini-Suite As for mini-suite Select mini-suites Formerly Club Class. Includes a private dining area, wine and extra amenities
Penthouse Suite About 440 sq ft (72 sq ft balcony) 14, midship Separate living area, plus a separate tub and shower
Premium Suite About 554 sq ft 9-12, forward Penthouse layout in a more private forward position
Owner’s Suite About 587-682 sq ft 8-15, aft corners Wraparound aft balcony of around 158 sq ft

Regal Princess has almost no traditional oceanview cabins, so a balcony is effectively the only way to get a view from your room. All suites include Concierge Lounge access on Deck 14, a private breakfast venue, a specialty dinner on embarkation day and priority disembarkation. Reserve Collection mini-suites get some of those perks, mainly the dining and in-cabin extras, but not the lounge.

Regal Princess Cabins to Avoid

1. Starboard Balconies Under the SeaWalk (Decks 14 and 15)

The SeaWalk is a glass-floored walkway that extends beyond the starboard side of the ship from Decks 16 and 17. It is a fun feature, but balconies on the decks below it, mostly starboard cabins on the Riviera (14) and Marina (15) Decks, can be seen from above when you stand at the rail. Its blue lighting can also reach your balcony at night. Passenger reports on Cruise Critic forums name cabins such as M423 and R415 as examples. Some guests are not bothered, because the balcony doors have a mirrored coating and most people walk across the SeaWalk quickly. If privacy matters to you, though, choose another spot. The port side has the SeaView Bar rather than the SeaWalk and seems to have fewer complaints.

2. Deck 15 Cabins Directly Under the Lido Deck

Deck 16 holds the main pool, the World Fresh Marketplace buffet and the grills. Cabins on Deck 15 directly beneath these areas can hear chairs being moved, carts rolling and early-morning cleaning. Passengers have mentioned cabins near the area above the Trident Grill, such as M311 and M315. Forward Deck 15 cabins sit under other cabins rather than the pool deck, and passengers describe them as noticeably quieter.

3. Deck 8 Cabins Above Crooners

Deck 8 (Emerald) is the lowest passenger deck and sits directly above the Promenade Deck, which holds Crooners bar and the upper level of the Princess Theater. Passengers have reported hearing piano music and singing in cabins above Crooners until around 11pm. If you are an early sleeper, look at the Deck 7 plan before you choose a Deck 8 cabin.

4. Obstructed-View Balconies on Deck 8

Many Deck 8 balconies look out over the lifeboats on Deck 7. In most of them you can still see the horizon, but not straight down to the water. They often cost little more than a full-view balcony, and some are deluxe balconies with a sofa, so they can be good value if you know what you are getting. Check photos of your exact cabin first, because the obstruction varies a lot along the deck. Cruisedeckplans.com has view photos for many of them.

5. Aft-Facing Balconies on Higher Decks

The back of Regal Princess is tiered, so guests on higher decks can look down onto the aft balconies below them. These are some of the ship’s most sought-after cabins because of the wake views, but they offer less privacy. They can also catch soot, wind and engine vibration. Lower aft decks have more overhead cover and feel more secluded.

6. Cabins With Interconnecting Doors or Next to Busy Areas

On any ship, interconnecting doors let more sound through than solid walls. On Regal Princess, a small number of balconies and mini-suites connect. Cabins right beside elevator lobbies, crew service doors or laundry rooms can also get more corridor noise late at night.

Two chairs on a private balcony overlooking the ocean, as found in balcony cabins on Regal Princess
A sheltered midship balcony is the safest pick on most sailings. Photo: Sabel Blanco on Pexels

The Best Cabins to Book on Regal Princess

  • Midship balconies on Decks 9 to 12: These have cabins above and below, are close to the elevators and feel the least motion. They are hard to beat for most cruisers.
  • Angled midship mini-suites: Some mini-suites have angled balconies with much more outdoor space. Balconies range from about 36 sq ft to over 100 sq ft, so compare cabin numbers before you book.
  • Deck 8 forward deluxe obstructed balconies: Forum posters describe some forward Deck 8 balconies as deeper and more enclosed, with metal side panels instead of glass. They offer lots of privacy at a lower price.
  • Owner’s Suites at the aft corners: These have the largest balconies on board, with wraparound views over the wake. They are ideal if your budget allows and you prefer a lower deck for privacy.
  • Premium Suites forward: They have the same layout as the Penthouse Suites but in a quieter, more private location.
  • Reserve Collection mini-suites: These add a private dining area and in-room extras without the full cost of a suite.

For a closer look at Princess suites and mini-suites on another ship, see our Ruby Princess mini-suites and suites guide.

Is a Balcony Worth It on Regal Princess?

On Regal Princess, the answer is usually yes. Balcony cabins make up most of the ship and are often priced only a little above interior cabins. With almost no oceanview cabins, the choice is really between a windowless interior and a balcony. Interiors do have advantages: they are cheaper, very dark for sleeping and still roomy at up to 175 sq ft. If you mostly use your cabin to sleep, you lose very little. Our guide to balcony vs inside cabins explains the trade-offs in more detail.

Neatly made double bed in a compact cabin-style bedroom with soft lighting
Interior cabins suit passengers who mainly use the room to sleep. Photo: Max Vakhtbovych on Pexels

A Quick Checklist Before You Pick a Cabin Number

  1. Check the deck above and below. Choose a cabin with cabins on both sides. Avoid cabins under Deck 16 and over Deck 7 venues.
  2. Check which side the SeaWalk is on. It is on the starboard side. Decks 14 and 15 on that side are most affected.
  3. Look up view photos for Deck 8 cabins. How much the lifeboats block the view varies from cabin to cabin.
  4. Compare balcony sizes within a category. Angled and forward balconies can be twice the usual size for the same fare.
  5. Match the cabin to the itinerary. For a 2027 Northern Europe cruise, a sheltered midship balcony gets more use than an exposed aft one.
  6. Consider a guarantee fare only if you are flexible. With a guarantee fare, Princess assigns the cabin for you, so you could end up in one of the spots listed above.

Comparing Princess ships? The same rules apply on older vessels, with some differences. See our guides to Island Princess cabins to avoid and Diamond Princess cabins to avoid.

FAQs

Which side of Regal Princess has the SeaWalk?

The SeaWalk is on the starboard side, on Decks 16 and 17. Starboard balconies on Decks 14 and 15 beneath it have the least privacy. The port side has the SeaView Bar instead.

What is the best deck for a balcony on Regal Princess?

Decks 9 to 12 are usually best. They have cabins above and below, no public venues next to them and easy elevator access. Midship cabins on these decks also feel the least motion.

Are Deck 8 obstructed-view balconies on Regal Princess worth booking?

They can be. Lifeboats block the view straight down, but most still show the horizon. Some are deeper deluxe balconies with a sofa. Check photos of your exact cabin, and avoid cabins above Crooners.

What does BD mean on Princess Cruises?

BD is a balcony category code. Princess uses letter codes such as BA to BF for balconies, DA to DF for deluxe balconies and M codes for mini-suites. Earlier letters in each range usually mean a higher deck or better location, and a higher price.

Does Regal Princess have Club Class mini-suites?

Club Class has been rebranded as Reserve Collection. Regal Princess offers Reserve Collection mini-suites, which include a private dining area, complimentary wine and extra amenities.

Love-by-Britto-Image.jpg

A Brand-New Culinary and Artistic Experience Aboard Sun Princess

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Sun Princess has only been sailing for a couple of months but she’s debuted a brand-new restaurant – Love by Britto.

Love by Britto Sun Princess

This latest speciality restaurant aboard Sun Princess offers a unique dining experience combining art and cuisine. It’s a collaboration between artist Romero Britto and chef Rudi Sodamin, featuring a seven-course menu that is both visually stunning and delicious.

Located on Deck 17, Love by Britto provides an immersive experience with vivid colours, bold patterns, and ocean views.

Romero Britto, known for his vibrant and colourful works, has helped to create a dining space that uplifts the spirit. His artwork adorns the walls, dinnerware, and napkins, creating a cohesive and immersive experience.

And chef Rudi Sodamin, head of culinary arts for Princess Cruises, has crafted a menu that complements Britto’s artistic vision. Each dish is a masterpiece in flavour and presentation.

The seven-course dining experience begins with elegant starters like Oysters with Lemongrass Kafir, Mirin, and Gold Flakes, offering a delicate balance of flavours and luxury.

Main courses are stunning in every way, and presented in heart shapes. Standout dishes include Tuna and Avocado with Pomegranate and Togarashi, Cappuccino of Wild Mushroom Soup, and Tail of Lobster Thermidor.

The meal concludes with heart-shaped desserts like Chocolate Lava Cake with Fresh Berries and Raspberry Cream, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Reservations for the new restaurant can be made through the Princess app, with a cover charge of $79 per person.

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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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Solo traveler relaxing on a cruise ship deck at sea, illustrating singles cruises over 50

Singles Cruises Over 50: The Best Lines for Solo Cabins and Social Life (2026-27)

by AzamaraCruise LinesCruise NewsCunardFred OlsenHolland America LineNorwegian Cruise LineP&O CruisesSoloVirgin Voyages

The best singles cruises over 50 are on lines that do two things well: they price a cabin fairly for one person, and they make it easy to meet other people on board. Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity, Virgin Voyages, Holland America and Cunard lead on the big ships, and American Cruise Lines, AmaWaterways and Road Scholar suit people who prefer smaller groups. Below we compare their solo cabins, single supplements and social events at three budget levels, using what each line offers for 2026-27 sailings.

This guide is for active, sociable solo travelers in their fifties and early sixties who want a lively ship as well as a good price. If you are looking for a quieter, slower-paced trip, our guide to the best cruises for single seniors over 60 covers that in more detail.

What makes a good singles cruise over 50?

Most cruise fares are priced per person on the assumption that two people share a cabin. Book that cabin alone and you usually pay a single supplement, which can be anywhere from about 25% to 100% of a second fare. So the first question for any solo cruiser is how a line handles that cost. There are three main ways:

  • Dedicated solo cabins. Smaller cabins built for one person and priced for one. They are the most reliable way to avoid a full supplement, but there are not many of them, so they sell out early.
  • Reduced single supplements. Some lines cut the supplement on standard cabins on selected sailings. These deals come and go, and they are often limited to certain cabin grades.
  • No supplement at all. This is rare on big ships. It is more common on river and small-ship lines, where solo cabins are part of the design.

The second question is social life. Look for hosted solo meet-ups (usually on the first evening), shared dining tables, group classes, trivia and team-based activities. Over 50, many solo cruisers also want a mix of ages on board. A ship full of young families or one where most guests are in their late seventies can both feel isolating.

Singles cruises over 50 compared: solo cabins, supplements and social life

Cruise line Solo cabins? Typical single supplement Social events for solos Best for
Norwegian Cruise Line Yes: Studio, Inside, Oceanview and Balcony solo categories None on solo staterooms, which are priced for one Studio Lounge for solo guests on ships with studios; solo meet-ups usually listed in the daily programme Budget-minded first-time solo cruisers
Royal Caribbean Yes, on a limited number of ships (mainly the Quantum class) None on solo studios; standard cabins usually carry a full supplement Solo meet-ups are often listed; big-ship activities make it easy to join in Activity lovers on a budget
Virgin Voyages A small number; mostly Sea Terraces with a reduced supplement Reduced Single Supplement offer on selected Sea Terrace sailings Solo meet-ups and dinners, communal tables, group fitness Adults-only, lively evenings
Celebrity Cruises Yes: single staterooms with Infinite Veranda on Edge-class ships Single rooms priced for one; standard cabins carry a supplement Solo get-togethers on many sailings Stylish mid-range with a balcony
Holland America Line Yes: single oceanview cabins on Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam; solo verandahs coming to Oosterdam in late 2027 Solo cabins priced for one; varies on others Solo get-togethers and shared tables Alaska and destination-focused trips
Cunard Yes: on Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth Solo cabins priced for one; supplements on others Hosted solo traveler gatherings, dance hosts on many voyages Transatlantic crossings and dressing up
American Cruise Lines Yes, across the fleet None on solo cabins Small ships, so mixing is easy US river and coastal cruising
AmaWaterways Yes, on some ships Reduced or waived supplement on selected sailings Small-group excursions and open seating Culture-focused European river cruises

Solo cabin counts and offers change from season to season, so always check the solo price for your exact sailing before you book.

Small private balcony on a cruise ship looking out over calm blue sea, the kind of solo cabin many singles book
A balcony solo cabin is one of the most popular choices for single cruisers. Photo: Bingqian Li on Pexels

Best cruise lines for singles over 50 by budget

Budget: lowest-cost cruises for singles over 50

Norwegian Cruise Line has the best-known solo cabin programme at sea. NCL says solo Inside, Oceanview and Balcony staterooms are available across the fleet, and that Studio cabins are on selected ships, with a keycard-access Studio Lounge for solo guests. These cabins are priced for one, not as a share of a double. NCL also has freestyle dining, so you can eat when and where you like. That makes it easy to join a shared table one night and eat alone the next. It suits people in their fifties who want a busy ship with plenty of evening entertainment.

Royal Caribbean has solo studios on a smaller number of ships, mainly the Quantum-class ships (Quantum, Anthem, Ovation and Spectrum of the Seas), with a few on other ships too. Some studios have balconies, and the inside ones have a “virtual balcony” screen. If you can get one, the big-ship activities like rock climbing, surf simulators, ice shows and team trivia are a natural way to meet people. On ships without studios, a solo traveler usually pays close to the price of two.

Mid-range: social and stylish

Virgin Voyages is adults-only, which many solo travelers over 50 like. It runs a Reduced Single Supplement offer on selected Sea Terrace cabins, and in November 2026 some five-night Caribbean sailings on Scarlet Lady were advertised from under $900 per sailor before gratuities. Solo meet-ups and dinners, communal seating at The Galley food hall, and included group fitness classes all make it easy to start talking to people. Evenings are lively and the crowd skews younger than on traditional lines, so it is a good choice if you want energy rather than calm.

Celebrity Cruises sits between mainstream and premium. Its Edge-class ships (Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond and Ascent) have single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda, a window wall that opens to let the sea air in. Celebrity’s own site lists them at 184 sq ft including the veranda. The newest ship in the class, Celebrity Xcel, has more of them: around 32, according to Cruisebound. Celebrity Silhouette also has a handful of single inside rooms. Expect a well-dressed but relaxed crowd, good food and solo get-togethers on many sailings.

Holland America Line has single oceanview cabins on its three Pinnacle-class ships, Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam. As part of its fleet refit programme, the line is adding 30 Solo Verandahs to Oosterdam, which are due to debut in late 2027. They will be its first solo balcony cabins. Cruise Industry News reports that their prices will change with demand, sailing by sailing, so booking early should pay off. The atmosphere is calmer than on NCL or Virgin, but the line’s Alaska and Northern Europe itineraries are excellent, and shared tables make dinner easy.

Premium: classic, all-inclusive or small-ship

Cunard has solo cabins on Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth. Queen Mary 2 has the most, and a transatlantic crossing on it is a classic choice for a solo traveler. Cunard usually hosts solo traveler gatherings, and formal nights, dance classes and ballroom evenings give you a natural reason to talk to people.

Viking has no dedicated solo cabins on its ocean ships. It does sometimes reduce or waive the single supplement on selected sailings, and its fares include an excursion in each port, Wi-Fi, and wine and beer with lunch and dinner. Guests must be 18 or over, and the line focuses on culture, so it suits curious travelers who prefer lectures to late-night clubs.

American Cruise Lines sails US rivers and coasts, including the Mississippi, Columbia and Snake rivers and New England. Every ship has solo cabins, and they carry no supplement. AmaWaterways has solo cabins on some of its European river ships and runs reduced-supplement offers. On a river ship with fewer than 200 guests, you will recognise people by day two.

Group of travelers sharing a dinner table in a restaurant, showing how shared dining helps solo cruisers meet people
Shared tables are one of the easiest ways to meet people on a singles cruise. Photo: Ron Lach on Pexels

How to meet people on a solo cruise over 50

Even on ships with no formal singles programme, there are simple ways to make friends quickly:

  1. Join your sailing’s roll call before you go. Cruise Critic roll calls and Facebook groups for individual sailings often arrange solo meet-ups, shared excursions and sail-away drinks.
  2. Go to the first-night solo meet-up. Most of the lines above list one in the daily programme or app. It is the easiest moment to meet people, because everyone is new.
  3. Ask for a shared table at dinner. Lines with fixed dining times, like Holland America and Cunard, can seat you with others. On freestyle lines, just ask the host.
  4. Book group activities, not just excursions. Trivia teams, cooking classes, wine tastings and fitness classes give you the same faces every day.
  5. Consider a hosted group. Road Scholar runs learning-focused cruises for travelers 50 and over, with a collection aimed at solo travelers. Specialist singles agencies also book group blocks with a host on mainstream ships.

For more practical advice, see our complete solo cruise guide and our explainer on how singles cruises work.

How to work out the real solo price

This is the step most comparisons skip. A headline fare is not what one person pays, so compare like with like:

  • Always search with one guest selected. The price per person for two sharing is not your price.
  • Divide the solo total by the number of nights. A cheap studio on a 3-night trip can cost more per night than a reduced-supplement balcony on a 7-night trip.
  • Add what is not included. Gratuities (often $16 to $20 per person per night on mainstream lines), drinks packages and Wi-Fi add up. An all-inclusive fare with a 25% supplement can work out cheaper than a solo cabin with extras on top.
  • Check the cabin size. Solo inside studios can be around 100 sq ft. If you plan to spend time in your cabin, a solo balcony or a standard cabin with a reduced supplement may be worth the difference.
  • Book early or very late. Solo cabins sell out first. Reduced-supplement offers sometimes appear closer to sailing, when lines need to fill empty cabins.

Sailing from the UK? Saga (over 50s only), Fred. Olsen and P&O Cruises all have single cabins on some ships. Our guide to the best cruises for over 50s from the UK covers those lines.

FAQs

Which cruise line is best for singles over 50?

For value and a busy social scene, Norwegian Cruise Line is the strongest all-rounder thanks to its solo staterooms and Studio Lounge. Virgin Voyages suits those who want an adults-only, lively ship, while Celebrity and Cunard suit those who want a more polished experience.

Are there cruises with no single supplement?

Yes. Dedicated solo cabins on NCL, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Holland America and Cunard are priced for one person. American Cruise Lines solo cabins carry no supplement, and some river lines waive it on selected sailings.

Are there all-inclusive cruises for singles over 50?

Viking includes excursions, Wi-Fi, and wine and beer with meals, and sometimes reduces its single supplement. River cruise lines often include drinks with meals too. For UK travelers, Saga includes a lot in its fares and has many single cabins.

How do I meet other single travelers on a cruise?

Join your sailing’s online roll call before you go, attend the first-night solo meet-up, ask for a shared table at dinner, and book group activities such as trivia or cooking classes.

Is a solo cabin cheaper than paying the single supplement?

Usually, but not always. Compare the total solo price per night, including gratuities and extras. A reduced-supplement deal on a larger cabin can sometimes cost about the same as a small solo studio.

Fred-Olsen-Borealis-review-1.jpg

Want To Cruise Around The World? Here’s How Much A World Cruise Really Costs

by Choosing a cruiseCruise LinesCruise NewsCruise Tips

World cruises are often seen as the pinnacle of cruising itineraries. While few actually circumvent the entire globe, they are spectacular lengthy cruises that incorporate at least two continents and give you the chance to explore the world in style.

Fred. Olsen Borealis
Me at the start of a cheap world cruise on Borealis

But understandably, world cruises are not cheap. So how much are they exactly, and what kind of options are you looking at if you want to choose a long-term cruise as a dream holiday? Let’s find out.

How much a world cruise REALLY costs

World cruises start from around $10,000 per person and can cost as much as $839,999 per person if you choose the best suite on the most luxurious cruise line. Expect to pay around $15,000 to $25,000 on a mainstream cruise line, and between $60,000 and $100,000 on a luxury cruise line, on average.

Factors affecting the price of a world cruise

Every world cruise is different so the price really depends on a lot of things. When asking how much does a round-the-world cruise cost, you need to look at various factors:

1. Duration

World cruises are not a standard length, and unsurprisingly, a 6-month cruise around the world is going to cost more than a 4-month world cruise. That’s an extra 60 or so days of your room, food, entertainment and so on.

Typically the shortest round-the-world itineraries are around 100 nights or so, and most world cruises are 4-month itineraries lasting around 130 nights. Six-month-long world cruises are a little rarer, although Oceania Cruises usually has a 180-night itinerary to enjoy.

There are some longer world cruises, such as Royal Caribbean’s incredible 274-night sailing which set sail in 2023 – that’s nine months long.

World Cruise Map

Supposed to set sail in November 2023 was the first ever three-year-long world cruise. The new cruise line Life At Sea Cruises originally offered this itinerary on their ship MV Gemini, with a starting price of around $90,000 per person.

However, it was cancelled last minute when the cruise line couldn’t secure a replacement ship, after MV Gemini was deemed not to be seaworthy for the itinerary.

Life-At-Sea-Cruises
MV Gemini

Many would say that if you spend more than a year on a ship, you’re pretty much living there. That is an option, too. Check out my guide to living on a cruise ship permanently to see how much that costs.

What length of world cruise is best?

If you have the time for a longer cruise then go for it – it won’t just be filled with sea days, but you’ll instead see more ports. But of course, the cost will be higher, so budget is as much a concern as your time.

An alternative option is to look at segments – most cruise lines will break their itineraries up into segments, so you can book say a 30-night or 40-night sailing on the ship as part of the world cruise. These are good compromises if you don’t have the time or money for the full itinerary.

2. Cruise Line

As it is with any cruise, the choice of cruise line will impact how much your world cruise sets you back. Cruising on a mainstream cruise line like MSC or Princess Cruises is always going to be less expensive than choosing a luxury cruise operator like Seabourn or Silversea.

Seabourn cruise ship

You need to consider what type of cruise you enjoy though, and what you want from your ship. Luxury cruise lines may have less to do during the day, but a higher standard of service. The entertainment, the choice of restaurants and bars, and the facilities, are even more important on a world cruise than a regular cruise because you’re on the ship for so long.

Don’t settle for a cruise line that doesn’t fit your vacation style, since you might end up not enjoying the experience. And a six-month cruise that you don’t enjoy is a long one.

2. Stateroom Type

Again, just like booking any cruise, the choice of stateroom will determine how much you have to pay. World cruises are always advertised with a “from” price for the most basic staterooms on the ship, usually inside cabins.

On a 7-night or 14-night cruise, an inside cabin is fine for most people. You can easily wander up to the deck to enjoy the view when you want to. But on a longer itinerary, having a window or a balcony may be a higher priority for you.

Here’s the room I stayed in when I joined the world cruise on Borealis. Paying several thousands of pounds more for a window is a lot, but many would say it’s worth it.

Ocean View Room on Borealis

And then, of course, there’s the even better option of a suite if you have the funds available. The suite perks may be even more valuable over a longer itinerary.

As a guide, here’s a look at one of the cheapest, one of the longest and one of the most expensive world cruises, with a guide to the different prices depending on stateroom choice:

Ambassador Cruise Line’s World Cruise Prices

Stateroom Prices From  (pp)
Inside $9,741
Oceanview $12,018
Balcony $20,895
Suite $29,395
Suite on Ambassador Ambience
Suite on Ambassador Ambience

Royal Caribbean’s 274-night Ultimate World Cruise

Stateroom Prices From (pp)
Interior $59,999
Ocean View $64,499
Balcony $82,949
Junior Suite $117,599
Serenade of the Seas Junior Suite
Junior Suite on Serenade of the Seas

Regent Seven Seas’ Ultra-Luxury World Cruise 2027

Suite Prices From (pp)
Deluxe Veranda Suite $91,499
Regent Suite $839,999
Regent Seven Seas Penthouse Suite
Penthouse Suite on Seven Seas Mariner

3. Inclusions

One of the biggest differences, when you work out the total cost of your world cruise, will depend on what’s included as standard with the upfront fare.

There are a lot of additional costs you might rack up during a long world cruise itinerary, including:

  • WiFi internet access
  • Drinks
  • Tips
  • Speciality dining
  • Shore excursions
  • Laundry

That last one is often overlooked because on a normal cruise you might never need the laundry service – but good luck packing 274 different outfits for your Royal Caribbean cruise!

Many cruise lines will include more of these as standard in their world cruise fares. What you’d normally pay for separately will be incorporated into the fare. For example, Royal Caribbean includes WiFi, drinks, tips and laundry in the Ultimate World Cruise fare, and normally you’d pay extra.

Royal Caribbean drinks

So bear that in mind when you compare world cruises – because you need to budget for the whole thing, including any extra you’ll have to spend while on the ship. 

4. Travelling solo

World cruise prices – and most cruises in general – will always be advertised with a price that is “per person, based on two sharing”.

So if you’re intending to cruise solo, bear in mind that your cruise will cost more – sometimes as much as taking a second person along anyway!

It varies and with an itinerary as long as a world cruise you will often find special solo rates. They won’t be quite as cheap as the regular per-person rate but they should be better than paying the full price of two passengers.

The best world cruise depends on you

Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise, if they repeat it, is a good option for families with pre-school or homeschooled kids and younger travellers.

A lot of people who go on world cruises tend to be in retirement age though, so may be looking for either something more luxurious – like a Regent Seven Seas or a Silversea cruise – as that special dream holiday they’ve worked for all their lives.

However, you might find it tricky to get a place onboard one of Regent Seven Seas’ world cruises. Each year, they sell out before they even open for bookings! So the only way to get a place is to be a loyal past customer, or join the waitlist and hope that someone cancels.

Seven Seas Mariner
Regent Seven Seas Mariner

And for those who don’t have the budget for a luxury option, the ‘best’ world cruise might be the one that’s most affordable, and that’s the cruise offered by Ambassador Cruise Lines.

Ambassador Ambience
Ambassador Ambience

There isn’t just one type of cruise passenger, and so there isn’t one single type of world cruise that best fits everyone. “Best” is very subjective.

World Cruises: cheapest to most expensive

Here’s a look at all the world cruises you either can currently book, or that have been on sale in the last couple of years, ranked from cheapest to most expensive based on the per-night cost. Obviously, the different cruises range in length, so a per-night cost is the fairest way of ranking them.

The prices are for the cheapest available stateroom and will be higher if you want to upgrade.

Cruise Line Nights Price Per Night
Ambassador Cruise Line 120 £7,999 ($9,741) £67 ($81)
P&O Cruises 99 £9,629 ($11,725) £97 ($118)
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines 106 $14,003 $132
Cunard 111 $18,699 $168
MSC Cruises 116 $21,649 $204
Royal Caribbean 274 $59,999 $218
Oceania Cruises 199 $50,399 $253
Viking 137 $48,698 $355
Seabourn 144 $64,999 $451
Hurtigruten 93 $42,174 $453
Crystal Cruises 60 $29,000 $483
Regent Seven Seas 140 $91,499 $654
Silversea 136 $99,000 $728

Ambassador Cruise Line

Ambassador Cruise Line’s 120-night world cruise from London starts at £7,999 ($9,741) per person, so it costs just £67 ($81) per person, per night. The itinerary includes the Panama Canal, Australasia, Asia, southern Africa and South America.

Ambience
Ambience

P&O Cruises

The P&O Cruises world cruise starts at £9,629 ($11,725) per person for 99 nights, so it has a nightly cost of £97 ($118) per person. Departing from Southampton, the cruise visits the Caribbean, the West Coast of the US and Hawaii, Australasia, Asia and Africa before a couple of European port visits on return to the UK.

Arcadia
Arcadia

Fred. Olsen

Fred. Olsen’s world cruise is a 106-night sailing on Borealis that starts at $14,003 per person for an inside cabin. That’s a per-person, per-night cost starting at $132. The cruise is unique as it doesn’t include North America or the Mediterranean, instead sailing around the south coasts of South America and later Africa.

Borealis
Borealis

Cunard

Cunard’s full world cruise is a 111-night itinerary that starts at $18,699 per person, meaning a per-night cost per person of $168. The round-trip from Hamburg includes ports in North and Central America, Australasia, Asia, Africa and Europe.

Cunard Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria

MSC Cruises

The MSC world cruise for 2025 starts at $21,649 per person for 116 nights, meaning it has a nightly cost of $187 per person. The cruise travels around the world, including port visits in Europe, Africa, South America, Australasia and Asia.

MSC Poesia
MSC Poesia

Princess Cruises

The longest world cruise offered by Princess Cruises starts at $23,659 per person for 116 nights, meaning a per-night cost of $204. Departing Florida it travels the Panama Canal to West Coast USA, Australasia, Asia and the Mediterranean before crossing the Atlantic.

Coral Princess
Coral Princess

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise is one of the longest world cruises ever, with an itinerary lasting 274 nights, with prices starting at $59,999 per person for a per-night cost of $218. It is split into four segments with the cheapest, the Ultimate Americas cruise, starting at $13,399.

Royal Caribbean World Cruise
Serenade of the Seas

Oceania Cruises

Oceania’s longest world cruise itinerary is a 199-night sailing that starts at $50,399 per person, which works out at $253 per person, per night. Guests can choose a free drinks package, 72 free shore excursions or $7,200 to spend on-board as part of their fare.

Oceania Insignia

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking’s World Cruise is a 137-night itinerary that starts at $48,698 per person, meaning a nightly cost of $355 per person. The sailing is not round-trip – it departs Fort Lauderdale and ends in London, via Mexico and western USA, Australasia, Asia, Africa and Europe. Flights are included.

Viking Neptune
Viking Neptune

Seabourn

Seabourn’s 2024 world cruise starts from $64,999 for a 144-night itinerary that travels from Los Angeles to Athens, resulting in a per-night cost of $451 per person. The cruise includes many smaller ports in the South Pacific and Asia, focussing on exploring destinations many other world cruises don’t include.

Seabourn Sojourn

Hurtigruten

Hurtigruten’s world cruise starts at $42,174 per person for a 93-night itinerary, making for a per-night cost of $453 per person. This unique itinerary sails from the Arctic to the Antarctic, via both coasts of North America and the west coast of South America.

MS ROALD ANUMDSEN
MS Roald Amundsen

Crystal Cruises

Crystal has brought back its world cruises for 2025 with an epic 123-night sailing that travels from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona. While the cruise line hasn’t published prices for the public (you need to request a quote), expect to pay in the region of $60,000.

Crystal Serenity
Crystal Serenity

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

An ultra-luxury world cruise with Regent Seven Seas starts at $91,499 per person for a 140-night itinerary, meaning a per-night cost of $654. But the Regent Suite is the most expensive world cruise ever, at almost $1.7 million per couple.

Seven Seas Splendor
Seven Seas Splendor

Silversea

Silversea’s 2025 world cruise lasts for 136 nights and starts at $99,000 per person, meaning a per-day cost of $728. The luxury world cruise sails from Tokyo to New York via Asia, Africa and both the Mediterranean and Northern Europe before crossing the Atlantic via Iceland and the Arctic.

Silver Dawn
Silver Dawn

To Conclude

World cruises are definitely worth the cost if you have the money available. It is the easiest way to see the world, since your ship takes you to all sorts of interesting and exotic destinations, and you don’t have the hassle of constantly packing and flying between each country.

If you want to get the best price on your world cruise, you’ll want to book early – they are very popular itineraries and often go on sale as much as 3 years in advance. 

Book the cheapest stateroom category you’re comfortable with, and try to take advantage of whatever free drinks there are on board if drinks aren’t included. Otherwise, over 3-6 months, you could rack up quite the bill!

And don’t forget to choose an itinerary that covers everywhere you want to visit. It’s worth looking at the top 10 ports in the world (according to the experts) if you need inspiration.

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Cruise Mummy

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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Royal Caribbean Cancels Cruises Due to Dry Dock Schedule, Compensation Packages Offered

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Royal Caribbean International has cancelled several cruises due to adjustments in the dry dock schedule for Brilliance of the Seas.

Brilliance of the Seas

The affected cruises include the transatlantic sailing departing Miami, Florida on 12 April 2025, a 5-night Western Caribbean itinerary from New Orleans scheduled to return on 10 April 2025, and sailings departing on 13 May and 21 May 2025.

The cancellations are due to the need for routine maintenance on the 22-year-old vessel, although Royal Caribbean has said that she will also receive some exciting improvements too.

This is interesting, as the Radiance Class wasn’t included in the cruise line’s original Amplification Schedule before the global shutdown in 2020.

Some cruise experts wondered if the Radiance Class would be allowed to sail under they were unsuitable and then sold on, with the cruise line focussing more on the bigger and newer ships in the fleet.

But the Radiance Class clearly still has life in it for Royal Caribbean – though similar questions still hang over the older and smaller Vision Class.

Royal Caribbean has spoken to guests to offer a selection of alternative cruises if theirs has been cancelled, along with additional compensation in the form of onboard credit or Future Cruise Credit if the alternatives aren’t suitable.

The cruise line hasn’t revealed the specific compensation being offered, as it has stated that amounts vary due to the different types of cruise being cancelled.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Royal Caribbean offers…

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If you found this interesting, please share!

Cruise Mummy

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.

Read more about me

Source link