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Who It Affects And Why

Worried you’ll spend your cruise feeling queasy instead of sipping cocktails by the pool? You’re not alone.

Seasickness is one of the biggest concerns for first-time cruisers, especially when you’re spending serious money on your holiday. The good news? Most people feel absolutely fine… even in rough seas.

people going on a cruise vacation

But for a small group, even gentle waves can cause problems. So, how likely is it really you’ll get seasick? Here’s what you need to know before you book.

Whilst it is possible to get seasick on a cruise ship, the truth is that most people don’t. It’s also becoming less of an issue with the size of modern ships and the technology involved. Technically, seasickness is just another name for motion sickness.

That means you can usually predict if you’ll suffer from seasickness if you’ve ever suffered from motion sickness in the past, which you would normally notice if you were frequently car sick. Ocean waves do move a ship differently from the movements of a car, so it is possible to get seasick even if you don’t get car sick, but it’s really rare.

Consider how many people book a cruise, and then book a second, third, fourth, and so on…would people be doing that if a lot of them were getting seasick?

The fact that people tend to cruise multiple times once they’ve tried it once is enough of a statistic to tell you how little seasickness is a problem!

Couples on a Cruise Ship

Feeling The Waves On A Cruise Ship

Whilst you can feel the waves on a cruise ship at times, normally you’ll forget you’re even on a ship when you’re indoors. Modern cruise ships are so large that it’s hard to feel the movement; they have stabilisers to help reduce the feeling of motion throughout the ship.

They also have wave detection technology, which makes it a lot easier for the ship’s officers to steer her away from any turbulent seas. During storms, you might notice some movement, or if you’re standing on a high deck close to the front or rear of the ship.

But for the most part, you’ll barely even notice you’re moving unless you’re standing looking out of the window or on an outside deck.

Can you get sea sick on a cruise ship even when the waves are calm, though? Sadly, yes, if you’re sensitive to motion. You might not even realise that it’s the motion you’re feeling.

Read more: Do big cruise ships rock less?

How Many People Get Seasick On Cruises

It’s impossible to say how many people get seasick on a cruise. Around 1 in 3 people get motion sickness, but how much you’ll feel it on a cruise ship varies hugely.

Studies that have been carried out are focused on too small a group (less than 200 participants) or on small ships only, where the movement of the boat is much more noticeable. So, they aren’t useful when trying to measure how likely it is to affect you.

According to medical studies, motion sickness affects a lot of people but only in certain conditions (source). 

There’s no easy way to predict how many people on any given cruise ship will get seasick, unfortunately, but if you’re concerned, then just spend any amount of time speaking to past cruise travellers on cruise forums. You’ll soon see how few people have suffered, which should put your mind at ease.

cruise ship view

Why Seasickness Affects Some More Than Others

There’s no clear answer to why some people get seasick and others don’t. It’s generally attributed to people who have a disconnect between their senses that respond to motion. If the eyes, inner ear, and skin nerves aren’t in harmony, it can cause confusion and queasiness.

While we can’t yet explain what causes certain individuals to be immune and others to be highly susceptible, we do know some information from that medical study above:

  • Women are more susceptible to motion sickness than men
  • The older you are, the less likely you are to feel any queasiness during motion, likely because the sensory receptors aren’t as powerful. Motion sickness actually peaks at age 9
  • People who are aerobically fitter tend to suffer more than those who are less fit because their autonomic system is more reactive
  • Patients with certain existing medical conditions, such as vertigo, migraines, vestibular pathology and Meniere’s disease, are more likely to get seasick
  • Elevated hormone levels, caused by the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, can also increase the risk

So, if you’re a young, fit woman who has a history of carsickness and suffers from migraines, you might want to stock up on some anti-sickness medication before you travel, just in case. But that doesn’t mean you will be affected. Just that you’re more likely.

Woman Relaxing on Cruise Ship Enjoying Ocean View from Balcony

Here are a few tips on how to know if you will get seasick on a cruise.

1. Consider Your History Of Motion Sickness

If you’ve ever experienced motion sickness before, either on a roller coaster or a boat ride, it’s likely you could experience it again in the open ocean. If you’ve experienced motion sickness in the past, you’re much more likely to feel seasick on a cruise.

2. Know Your Ship

If you’re cruising to an area that’s known for rough seas on board a smaller, older ship and you have a cabin right at the top, then there’s a good chance that you may feel a little queasy at some point. Choose your cruise carefully to minimise the risk.

3. Talk To Your Doctor

If you have any medical conditions or take any medications, it’s important to talk to your doctor before booking a cruise. Some medications can increase the risk of motion sickness, and your doctor can help you with this.

healthcare workers

How Long Seasickness Lasts On A Cruise

Most people who do feel seasick will recover in a day. In very rare cases, it can last longer if left untreated, and cause the traveller to suffer for the duration of their cruise (and sometimes beyond, up to a couple of weeks).

In most cases, once you get used to the motion of the ship or you get through whatever stormy waters are causing you to feel nauseous, you’ll feel right as rain and be ready to fully enjoy the rest of your holiday.

If seasickness persists, it’s recommended that you speak to the cruise ship’s doctor to see if there are any causes that they can help to eliminate and any treatments that they can offer.

You won’t be able to claim a refund on your cruise because you were seasick, so the onus is on you to find a way past it and enjoy the holiday that you’ve paid for.

Sea sickness medication is always available from the medical centre on board. You may have to pay for it, but it’s often free of charge, depending on the ship.

sea sickness medicine

If seasickness tablets don’t work, then you can also ask for an anti-nausea injection. This will stop any vomiting, but it will make you feel sleepy and dehydrated, so it should be used as a last resort.

How To Prevent Seasickness On A Cruise

There are a lot of ways to prevent seasickness on a cruise. Avoid booking a cabin on a high deck near the bow or aft of the ship, and choose as large a ship as possible for your first cruise. Avoid itineraries travelling to known choppy waters and consider over-the-counter medication.

There are plenty of ways to avoid getting sea sick on cruise holidays, and it’s always much better to prevent it rather than try to cure it. Once it’s hit you, you tend to need to ride it out. So, travel prepared if you think there’s a chance that you might get seasick.

If you don’t, then no harm done – you can just relax and enjoy the holiday in full.

Guests having fun on a cruise ship

Read more: 16 Tricks Guaranteed To Prevent Seasickness On A Cruise

The Bottom Line

It’s understandable to be concerned about seasickness if you’ve never travelled on a cruise ship before. It doesn’t help that it was often a joke used for a cheap laugh whenever you saw someone on a boat in a movie or TV show.

In reality, it’s really not common – some people might feel a little bit funny on the first day, but not so much that they can’t enjoy all the food and drink that they were looking forward to.

And if you think you’re likely to get seasick, don’t forget to take steps to prevent it first. Don’t wait and see, as it’s a lot harder to get past it once it’s kicked in.

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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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27 Hilarious Cruise Jokes To Make You Laugh

We cruisers love sunshine, buffets… and a good dad joke at sea. Whether you’re counting down to embarkation or just dreaming of the Lido deck, these clean and clever cruise jokes are guaranteed to make you smile.

From ship puns to passenger punchlines, here are the funniest cruise-themed jokes that won’t make you walk the plank – but might just leave you giggling like you’ve had one too many cocktails.

cruise mummy and her children similing with cocktails

1. Spring Break

A group of college kids went on a booze cruise for spring break. The ship sank and the young men escaped in a small lifeboat. They floated for several days, but nobody came to rescue them.

Eventually, delirious from a lack of fluid, one of the men noticed a bottle floating in the water. He reached over and picked it out. Suddenly, a genie emerged from the bottle with a loud whoosh.

“I am a genie and I can grant you one wish!” said the genie.

“That’s a no-brainer!” The frat boy said. “I wish the ocean were made of beer!”

The genie immediately granted the wish and then vanished,

“You idiot!” said the second kid. “Now we have to pee in the boat!”

2. Playing Cards

Q: Why couldn’t the cruisers play cards?

A: Because they were standing on the deck!

Cruise joke

3. Castaway

A cruise ship passenger is looking out to sea when he sees a small island. On the island, he spots a thin, suntanned man with wild hair. He can see the man jumping up and down and waving.

The passenger turns around and sees the Captain, so he draws his attention to the man.

“Captain, what’s up with that guy?”

The Captain shrugs his shoulders.

“No idea. He’s always that happy when we sail past.”

4. Two Oceans

Q: What did one ocean say to the other ocean?

A: Nothing, it just waved.

Cruise joke

5. The Nervous Cruiser

A very nervous first-time cruiser met the captain at the welcome reception.

“Do ships like this sink very often?” he asked.

“No,” said the captain. “Usually it’s just the once.”

6. Sunbathing And Reading

Two cruise passengers are lounging on sun beds, reading books. One notices that the other is reading a Che Guevara book.

The other passenger turns to him and asks

“Have you read Marx?”

“Yes”, he replied. “I think it’s from sitting on these deck chairs so long.”

7. The Booze Cruise

On the last night of the cruise, it’s discovered that there’s been a miscalculation with the food. Just before dinner, the captain announces over the loudspeaker…

“Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. I’m sorry to inform you that there are 2,000 passengers on board, but only enough food for 1,000 people. However, we do have plenty of drinks, so anyone who is willing to give up their meal will receive free drinks for the rest of the cruise.”

A few hours later, the captain makes another announcement…

“I apologise, but it appears that we have run out of alcohol. However, if anyone is hungry, we do still have 1,000 meals available.”

joke about drinks on cruise

8. The Magician And The Parrot

A magician worked on a cruise ship, performing the same tricks each week for new passengers.

The captain’s pet parrot came to all the shows and figured out how the tricks worked. He began to shout out during the shows. “It’s up his sleeve”, and suchlike, spoiling the illusions.

The magician was annoyed but couldn’t do anything as the parrot belonged to the captain.

One night, the ship sank. The magician found himself stranded on a desert island, along with the parrot. They stared at each other with hatred for days, neither uttering a word.

Finally, after three days, the parrot couldn’t hold back any longer.

“Okay, I give up”, he said. “What did you do with the ship?”

9. The Cabin Steward

My cabin steward is amazing! I went to use the bathroom in the middle of the night and my bed has been made!

Cruise joke

10. Scotch And Water

A lady goes to the bar on a cruise ship and asks for a Scotch with two drops of water.

She says: “I’m on this cruise to celebrate my 80th birthday and it’s today!”

“Congratulations!” says the bartender. “This one’s on me.”

As she finishes her drink, the woman to her right says, “I’d like to buy you a drink too”

“Thank you, ” says the lady. “I’ll have another Scotch with two drops of water”.

The man to her left says, “I’d like to buy you a birthday drink too”.

So the old lady orders yet another Scotch with two drops of water.

As the bartender gave her the drink, he asked the lady, “I’m so curious. Why the Scotch with only two drops of water?

The old woman replies, “Sonny, when you’re my age, you’ve learned how to hold your liquor. Holding your water, however, is a whole other issue!”

11. The New Hat

An old lady was standing on the top deck of a cruise ship, holding tightly onto her hat so that it wouldn’t blow off in the wind.

A gentleman approached her and said: “Excuse me. I don’t mean to be rude, but your dress is blowing up in the wind!”

“Yes, I know,” said the lady, “I need both hands to hold onto my hat.”

“But, madam, you’re also not wearing underwear and people can see everything!” said the gentleman.

The woman looked down, then back up at the man and replied, “Sir anything you see down there is 85 years old. I just bought this hat yesterday!”

12. The Language Class

I once took a Spanish class on a cruise ship. But I got lost at sí.

Cruise joke

13. The Castaways

David was something of a ladies’ man, so when his cruise ship sank, and he found himself stranded on a desert island with six women, he couldn’t believe his luck!

The group agreed that each woman would have one night a week with the only man.

David threw himself into the arrangement with gusto. But, as the weeks stretched into months, he found himself looking forward to his day of rest more and more eagerly.

One afternoon, he was sitting on the beach, wishing for some more men to share his duties. Suddenly, he caught sight of a man waving from a life raft. David swam out, pulled the raft to shore, and did a little jig of happiness.

“You can’t believe how happy I am to see you,” he cried.

The new fellow eyed him up and down and said, “You’re a sight for sore eyes, too, you gorgeous thing!”

“Crap,” sighed David, “there go my Sundays.”

(Probably the safest of the dirty cruise ship jokes I could include!)

14. Which Sailors?

Q: Which sailors blow their noses most often?

A: The anchor chiefs.

Cruise joke

15. Trapped In The Cabin

A couple boarded a cruise ship and went up to their cabin. Later, they called guest services and asked for someone to help them get out of their room.

“What seems to be the problem?” asked the man at the desk.

“We only have two doors,” said the lady in the cabin. “One is the bathroom and the other says ‘do not disturb.”

16. The Two Priests

Two priests take a cruise. They don’t want to stand out, so they decide to buy casual clothes. They’ve just hit the lido deck in t-shirts, shorts and sandals when they spot an attractive woman in a tiny bikini walking their way. As she walks past them, she politely says, “Good afternoon, fathers.”

The men are amazed because they can’t understand how the woman knew they were priests.

They decide to go to the onboard shops and buy even more casual clothes. They buy Hawaiian shirts, surfer shorts and dark sunglasses.

The next day, they hit the lido deck again in their wild new clothes and the same woman passes them in a string bikini. As she passes, she says, “How do you do, fathers?”

Well, the two priests are really confused, so one of them asks the woman, “Excuse me, we’re not ashamed of being priests, but how in the world did you know who we were?”

The woman replies, “Why, father, don’t you recognise me? I’m Sister Catherine from the convent!”

17. Fastest Cruise Ship

Do you have time for a joke about the world’s fastest cruise ship? Don’t worry, it’s a quick one-liner.

Cruise joke

18. Rolex Below Decks

A rich guy took a cruise to a tropical island and decided to sunbathe on the beach. Wanting an even tan, he took off his luxury watch and slipped it into his pocket.

Back on board at the end of the day, he realised that his watch was gone. It must have fallen out of his pocket. Too embarrassed to admit he’d lost such an expensive item, he decided not to tell anyone.

A moment later, the Captain’s voice came on the loudspeaker. “Ladies and gentlemen, this is an announcement to the passenger who lost the Rolex Pearlmaster on the beach…the time is now 6:54 PM.”

19. Latest Cruise Ship Trend

Did you hear the latest trend is installing trampolines on cruise ships? Now everyone is jumping on board.

Cruise joke

20. Sinking Cruise Ship

A cruise ship sinks in the middle of the sea and the cruise passengers manage to escape on lifeboats. A woman then asks the Captain, “How far is the closest land?”

“3 miles,” he answers.

“That’s not too bad, in which direction?” she asks.

The Captain replied, “Down.”

21. Dock Above The Water

Q: What keeps a dock floating above water?

A: Pier pressure.

Cruise joke

22. Bankers Aweigh

Two bankers were the only survivors when their cruise ship sank. They were both clinging to a single life preserver. One banker, knowing that his colleague couldn’t swim, says, “I think I can make it to shore to get help. Can you float alone?”

The other banker replies, “How can you talk business at a time like this?”

23. Vegetables

Q: What vegetable isn’t allowed on cruise ships?

A: Leeks

Cruise joke

My son loves this joke, he told it to Captain Robert Camby on our cruise on Arvia. The captain laughed!

24. Shower Trouble

The showers in the cruise cabins are so small. I just soap the walls and spin around a few times!

Cruise joke

25. Emotional Baggage

I told my suitcase I wouldn’t be taking a cruise this year. Now I’m dealing with emotional baggage!

Cruise joke

26. Cruise News

Breaking news: Passengers trapped on a cruise ship on the ocean for 4 days.

On the bright side, it’s kind of what they paid for.

Cruise joke

27. Colour Clash

Q: Did you hear about the blue cruise ship that crashed into the red cruise ship?

A: The passengers were all marooned.

Summary

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the best cruise jokes. So many of the jokes about cruise ships seem to involve ships sinking. I suppose that a cruise is the start of many desert island jokes. I do like the cruise ship puns and jokes that aren’t accident-related, though!

If you love cruise ship humour, you’ll find that most cruise ships have comedy shows on board. There might be earlier shows that the whole family can enjoy and adult comedy shows after 10 pm.

For more cruise ship jokes, take a look at these funny cruise memes and this list of cruise puns.

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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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You Can Surf At Sea! Everything You Need To Know About Royal Caribbean’s FlowRider

Without a doubt, one of THE most popular attractions at sea is Royal Caribbean’s FlowRider.

The FlowRider is not a Royal Caribbean invention – it was created as a land-based attraction originally, but then partnered with the cruise line and there’s been no looking back. The FlowRider is always one of the most popular attractions on a Royal ship.

But if you’ve never tried it before, you’ve probably got questions – surely something this cool isn’t free? And is it even safe to use…?

Woman surfing on Anthem of the Seas' FlowRider

The Royal Caribbean Ships That Have a FlowRider

The FlowRider debuted on Freedom of the Seas in 2006 and has been added to every Royal Caribbean ship since. It’s also been added to some older ships. Now, 21 of the 29 ships in the fleet have at least one FlowRider on board.

I say at least, because four of the ships actually have two on board to help minimise queue times.

The Royal Caribbean ships with FlowRider are:

  • Adventure of the Seas
  • Allure of the Seas (2 FlowRiders)
  • Anthem of the Seas
  • Explorer of the Seas
  • Freedom of the Seas
  • Harmony of the Seas (2 FlowRiders)
  • Icon of the Seas
  • Independence of the Seas
  • Liberty of the Seas
  • Mariner of the Seas
  • Navigator of the Seas
  • Oasis of the Seas (2 FlowRiders)
  • Odyssey of the Seas
  • Ovation of the Seas
  • Quantum of the Seas
  • Spectrum of the Seas
  • Star of the Seas
  • Symphony of the Seas (2 FlowRiders)
  • Utopia of the Seas
  • Voyager of the Seas
  • Wonder of the Seas

How a FlowRider Works

The FlowRider is a surfing simulator. It consists of a 12-metre-long soft sheet that is constantly covered by a fast-moving sheet of water that’s around 2.5 inches deep. This is created using high-volume pumps to recreate the waves of the ocean.

This constant wave lets you try surfing or bodyboarding. It’s not the same as real surfing, as ocean waves rise and eventually fall. The FlowRider is consistent, so if you’ve got the skills you can stay surfing constantly.

Man surfing on Independence of the Seas' FlowRider
FlowRider on Independence of the Seas

FlowRider Speeds

The FlowRider uses large pumps to move 30,000 gallons of water across the surface at a speed of around 20 miles per hour (mph). This is pretty fast, and if you fall off you should expect to slide at quite the speed until you hit the back wall.

Don’t worry though, it’s padded for your protection and the water isn’t very deep at all. Anyone that meets the minimum height and age requirements (detailed further in this article) will be big enough to withstand the crash into the back wall with no discomfort or risk.

Good News – It’s Free!

The FlowRider is a free activity on Royal Caribbean ships. You just need to turn up and join the queue. However, you can also book a private lesson. These cost $69 per person for one hour.

FlowRider surf lesson reservation

The private FlowRider lessons aren’t really ‘private’ – they’re shared with up to seven other guests. But, you’ll get some tuition and a lot more time on the FlowRider than if you turn up to a free session.

The cruise line has occasionally offered truly private sessions but expect to pay a lot more for those – $500 or more!

How To Book the Flowrider

You don’t need to book the FlowRider if you just want to ride it – you can turn up and queue when it’s open. Check the Cruise Planner for opening times. To book a private lesson check the Cruise Planner app. Alternatively, you can book at Guest Services.

The private FlowRider lessons don’t tend to sell out completely but they do get quite popular, so if your priority on your cruise is getting the most out of your FlowRider time, I’d recommend booking a private lesson as soon as you can. This makes it easier to then plan the rest of your cruise as well.

Private lesson on the Flowrider
Private lesson on the Flowrider

FlowRider Lines

As Royal Caribbean’s FlowRider is quite popular, particularly on warm-weather cruises and on sea days, you will need to queue and wait your turn. A turn only lasts as long as you stay on the board, but if you deck it straight away, you will be allowed to get back on.

If you want to stay on for a long time, it’s best to turn up as soon as it opens, or later in the evening when it’s less busy.

There are sometimes two different sessions – one for bodyboarding and one for stand-up surfing – so be sure to check the Royal Caribbean app to see if this is the case on your cruise and choose the right one if needed.

On certain ships, there are also some sessions for guests staying in Star Class Suites so that they can ride without having to join a line.

Man surfing on Anthem of the Seas' FlowRider
FlowRider on Anthem of the Seas

The FlowRider is generally open for around four hours a day for non-booked use, so you should get plenty of opportunities to try it.

Most people on forums report an average wait of 15 minutes, although that really depends on how long the line is and how long people can stay on for.

And don’t assume if you’re a talented surfer that this means you’ll get really long turns – the staff will soon spot you and start throwing challenges your way to increase your likelihood of falling off so that others get a turn as well.

Royal Caribbean FlowRider Height Restrictions

There are two different height restrictions for the FlowRider. If you want to use a boogie board lying down, you must be at least 52” tall (4 ft 3”, or 132 cm). Anyone who wants to stand up and surf must be at least 58” tall (4 ft 10”, or 147cm).

FlowRider height restrictions

Royal Caribbean FlowRider Age Limit

The FlowRider has an age limit – guests must be at least six years old to ride it, and must meet the minimum height requirements too. Any guests aged 6 to 12 must also be supervised by an adult while using the FlowRider.

To be clear, that’s an adult travelling with them – the guard overseeing the FlowRider doesn’t count!

Most six-year-olds aren’t tall enough to use the FlowRider anyway, although some may be. The minimum height is 52 inches, which is the height of the average eight-year-old.

Royal Caribbean's FlowRider on Mariner of the Seas
FlowRider on Mariner of the Seas

Royal Caribbean FlowRider Weight Limit

There are no advertised weight limits for the FlowRider. Royal Caribbean does publish weight limits for some of its other attractions, including water slides and the zipline, so you can assume that as long as you meet the age and height requirements, you’re permitted to use the FlowRider.

Can You Learn to Surf on Flowrider?

It is possible to learn to surf on the FlowRider, but experienced surfers say that it isn’t the same as riding ocean waves. You may learn some basic surfing skills on the FlowRider, but don’t then expect to be able to surf naturally when you get onto the ocean.

If you want to try surfing for the first time, ask the lifeguides on duty for advice – they’re really friendly and helpful and will gladly offer tips, as long as you don’t prevent them from keeping an eye on other surfers by asking too many questions.

The best advice I’ve found is to try to put your weight on your back foot and avoid lifting your feet off the board at any time.

Woman surfing on Harmony of the Seas' FlowRider
FlowRider on Harmony of the Seas

It’s Tricky…

The FlowRider is pretty tricky when you first start using it, especially if you want to try surfing standing up. Expect it to take a few turns before you get used to the moving water, and stick to boogie boarding if you don’t feel confident surfing.

Like anything, it gets easier the more you try it. If you expect to wander up, have one turn and be satisfied, you’ll probably end up really disappointed! Set aside a good hour or so if you want to get the most out of it.

Don’t Worry – It’s Pretty Safe

The FlowRider is generally a safe attraction and most people who use it and follow the instructions will have a great time. As with any extreme sporting attraction, there is a small element of risk, so you do need to sign a waiver before you can ride it.

If that concerns you, there are plenty of other attractions that you could try on the ship. But provided you follow the instructions of the team looking after the FlowRider and don’t push yourself beyond sensible limits, you should be absolutely fine.

What To Wear on the FlowRider

It’s recommended that you wear a tight-fitting high-neck t-shirt and a swimming costume or swimming shorts to ride FlowRider. No footwear of any kind is allowed, nor are you allowed to wear goggles.

Just a heads up for anyone wanting to wear a bikini or a loose-fitting t-shirt – the force of the water is likely to either pull it off you, or with a t-shirt at least soak it and make it very baggy. It’s best to wear a one-piece and have a high-neck t-shirt covering you up.

If you’re wearing board shorts, make sure they’re tied nice and tight for the same reasons. Nobody wants to see your bare behind, or anything else, when you come flying off the board!

Woman surfing on Anthem of the Seas' FlowRider

What You Should Bring to the FlowRider

The only thing you need to bring with you to the FlowRider is suitable clothing and a towel to dry off afterwards. You’ll be given a wristband that you’ll need to wear once you’ve signed a waiver – this shows that you’re allowed to ride.

You shouldn’t bring any goggles, since you aren’t allowed to wear them, and you’re not allowed to take any GoPros or other action cameras onto the FlowRider with you either. It’s dangerous and likely to break them, even if they are designed to be robust.

You’ll also need to remove any jewellery, and you definitely don’t want to leave your phone in the pocket of your shorts.

FlowRider Tips

1. The FlowRider tends to get busier further into the cruise – people see others using it and get more confident, so they decide to have a turn. The quietest days to use the FlowRider are embarkation day and port days. On other days, try to attend early morning sessions.

2. There may be special times reserved for adults or for teenagers – make sure you check the Cruise Planner before you get all of your surfing gear on in case it’s not a time you’re allowed to use it.

3. When boogie boarding, try to keep your arms narrow – it’s normally your arms that catch enough water to pull you off the board. Keep your legs in the water as much as possible as well, to reduce drag.

FlowRider on Anthem of the Seas

The FlowRider Royal Caribbean attraction is a lot of fun, so don’t be afraid to give it a go! If you have any more FlowRider tips, please add them in the comments section below…

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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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The Pros & Cons Of Ultra-Luxury Cruising With Silversea

Let’s be honest right from the start – if you’re looking at cruises from Silversea, you either don’t know much about the brand, or you have the money to treat yourself to a really special kind of vacation – that, or you like to dream.

Silversea Cruises is not a cruise line for the mainstream. It is very much a luxury cruise brand, reflected in its incredible food, beautiful ships, stellar service, and price.

Silver Shadow at sea

But even beyond the price, there are some downsides to such a fantastic cruise line… First, though, the reasons that justify the cost.

Silversea Cruises Advantages

Here’s a list of the main ‘pros’ of Silversea, and why you should consider them for your next cruise.

1. All-Inclusive Cruising (Almost)

With Silversea, almost everything is included in your fare – more so than almost every other cruise line sailing (the only major cruise line that is similar would be Regent Seven Seas, another ultra-luxury option).

However, there are different fare options. Door-to-Door includes your flights and chauffeur transfers (more on that below), while Port-to-Port is just for the cruise element. And then the newest fare option is Essential, which removes the shore excursions for added flexibility, but only on some cruises.

When you book a cruise with Silversea, you really don’t have to pay anything extra:

  • Flights – Your flights are all included in your fare, with Business-class upgrades where possible, if you choose a Door-to-Door fare
  • Hotel – If your flights get you into your embarkation port a day early, or if you can’t fly out on disembarkation day, your pre- or post-cruise hotel stays are included
  • Gratuities – All of your tips and gratuities are covered in your fare
  • Excursions – You get at least one free shore excursion in every port you visit, unless you’ve chosen the Essential cruise fare
  • Food – Your dining in the main dining room is included
  • Drinks – All drinks are free onboard, including alcoholic beverages. You’ll even enjoy free Champagne!
  • WiFi – Internet access is included

There are a few things you may want to pay for, but they’re always completely optional.

Woman in suite veranda on Silversea cruise ship

2. Private Transfers Included

Your luxury cruise with Silversea doesn’t begin when you get to the ship. It starts much earlier – from the second you step out of your home.

That’s because another included feature on the Door-to-Door fares is executive private transfers. You don’t need to arrange your own taxi to take you to the airport, it’ll all be done for you – in a stylish luxury car too.

It’s one less thing to worry about, and it means you can start to enjoy that VIP treatment the second that your holiday starts.

3. Stunning Service

Silversea ships are all-suite, and as part of that, it means every single room has a butler offering white-glove service. They are available round-the-clock for anything you need, whether that’s unpacking your suitcases for you, shining your shoes, or just making sure your minibar is stocked with all your favourites.

Silversea butler

It’s not just the butlers that are a beacon of excellent service, though – every crew member that you meet is trained to the very highest standards. Everywhere you go on the ship, you’ll be greeted warmly by the most dedicated and helpful staff you could hope to meet. Nothing is ever too much trouble.

4. Gourmet-Quality Dining

Every restaurant on Silversea offers truly stunning gourmet-quality dining. The Restaurant is the main dining room, with a vibrant and ever-changing menu that will often reflect the local dishes of the destinations you visit.

But the ships have other restaurants on board too, including specialist Italian fare, Japanese and Indochine cuisines, fine French options and succulent steak and seafood fare.

No matter how adventurous (or not) your palate, you will delight in sumptuous food throughout your entire cruise.

Guests having dinner at The Restaurant on Silver Cloud
Dining on Silver Cloud

5. Absolute Enrichment Onboard and Ashore

It’s worth reiterating that you get one included shore excursion in every port that you visit, meaning you get the chance to sample the local culture and major attractions without having to pay a penny extra.

But these are not excursions that are just thrown together. Each one is tailored to truly highlight the best features of every port, where possible.

It doesn’t mean you’ll see everything, because there’s often so much to do that it wouldn’t be possible. But you will get a fantastic insight into each destination.

This insight is only strengthened by the expert lecturers on the ship, offering extensive talks on every destination you’re sailing to. These free lectures are the perfect way to brush up on your next port of call before you visit, and broaden your horizons.

Silversea guests hiking in Antarctica
Silversea guests hiking in Antarctica

6. Smaller Ships

Silversea’s fleet of cruise ships does not include the gigantic behemoths of the more mainstream cruise lines.

Indeed, the largest ships in the fleet are Silver Nova and Silver Ray, both of which have a gross tonnage of 50,051 – that’s around a fifth of the size of the biggest cruise ship in the world, Icon of the Seas.

And that’s absolutely by design. Smaller ships mean more intimate service from the crew and a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. It also means that the ships are capable of exploring ports that larger ships simply can’t get to.

And that’s before you consider the specialist Expedition ships, which are smaller again and are built for the most hard-to-reach places in the world, such as the Antarctic.

Read more: Silversea Cruise Ships Compared

Silver Muse at sea
Silver Muse

7. Choice of Destinations

It’s not just about being able to reach destinations off the beaten track – Silversea also excels in sailing to destinations all over the globe.

While some other cruise lines will primarily stick to sailings in the Caribbean and Mediterranean, Silversea offers a huge amount of choice across Europe, all of North America and South America, Australia and New Zealand, Asia and both polar regions.

There are also some truly stunning Grand Voyages and World Cruises, if you’re lucky enough to have time to see more of the world in one holiday.

Silver Explorer cruising the Misty Fjords, Alaska, USA
Silver Explorer cruising the Misty Fjords, Alaska, USA

Silversea Cruises Disadvantages

Now let’s look at some of the ‘cons’ of Silversea that may put you off.

1. High Cruise Fares

You knew this was coming.

Understandably, when you’re sailing with an ultra-luxury cruise line that is almost all-inclusive, the cruise fares for Silversea are pretty high in comparison to other cruise lines.

Whereas a 9-night cruise around Europe with Royal Caribbean will likely start at around £1,300 ($1,500) per person, expect Silversea Cruises prices per person to start at around £6,000 ($6,900).

Of course, that Royal Caribbean fare won’t include the same features as the Silversea one, and that is for the lowest price stateroom in each – which with Silversea will be a suite. A Royal Caribbean suite would of course be much more expensive than £1,300 per person.

It comes down to your own personal budget, but for many people, the high Silversea prices are not unjustifiable – they are actually great ‘value’ for the quality of service you get, and for everything that is included.

2. Some Restaurants Aren’t Included

Unfortunately, not everything is included in your Silversea cruise, despite the marketing which describes them as being ‘all-inclusive’.

One of the main things you’ll need to pay extra for is dining in some of the speciality restaurants, which can cost around $60 per person.

That’s not extremely expensive for a gourmet-quality meal, but you might just prefer to stick to the main dining room, since it’s included in your fare and the food is still exceptional. It’s your choice again, but if you do want more variety and more specialist cuisines then be prepared to pay extra.

La Dame on Silver Nova
La Dame on Silver Nova

3. Not Well Suited to Families

Is this really a disadvantage? It depends on your own travelling party. But Silversea cruises are not really suited to families. They are not ‘adults-only’ but they don’t have any features on the ships really tailored to younger guests.

This might be something you see as an actual benefit, if you want a quieter cruise. There’s a very low chance that there will be any children or teenagers on board your cruise. But if you do have a family, be prepared for the fact that your kids may not enjoy the time spent at sea.

If you want a cruise that’s more upmarket but is accommodating to children too, consider premium cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises instead. Or a family-friendly cruise line such as MSC, with a premium area like the Yacht Club.

Suggested read: The Best Cruise Lines For Families

Is Silversea Worth It?

Whether Silversea is worth it depends on the type of cruise you want to experience, your budget, and how much you appreciate exemplary service.

It’s a stunning cruise line, making every guest feel like they really are a VIP, so if you like the idea of butler service, fine dining and expert guides to your destinations, it’s safe to say that Silversea is absolutely worth your money.

But if you need a little more convincing, there are plenty of Silversea reviews out there from past guests, which can tell you a lot about the typical experience onboard.

The best way to book a Silversea cruise

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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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Carnival Starts Issuing Bans To Alcohol Smugglers

Carnival, one of the biggest cruise lines in the world, has started cracking down on guests who smuggle alcohol onboard ships by issuing lifetime bans.

Carnival drinks ban

Copies of letters sent to guests have started to circulate social media, which explain to guests that they are being banned after sneaking alcohol onboard and then sharing their stories on social media.

The move comes after the cruise line’s brand ambassador, John Heald, shared an update in April 2025 stating that the cruise line did monitor social media and would ban guests who flouted the rules.

One noted name is TikToker Courtney Murley, who shared videos of her cruise in March where she had snuck alcohol onto the ship.

However she’s now shared a follow-up TikTok with her ban letter.

Language warning:

@courtneynicolemurley Thank goodness we love MSC & Royal better 🛳️ 🌴 I’m still laughing about this since it was all for the views and not real at all 😂 oh well def was great for my engagement so hey whatever, still love ya carnival 💁🏼‍♀️ @carnival @Royal Caribbean @MSC Cruises US #greenscreen #carnival #carnivalcruise #carnivalconquest #msccruises #royalcaribbean #royalcarribeancruise #bahamas #smuggler #pirate ♬ Hit Me – Megan Hilty & Christopher Sieber & Jennifer Simard

It’s clear that Carnival doesn’t want guests to promote the option to smuggle drinks onboard, since it could reduce the number of people willing to sign up to a drinks package.

In the comments of her original video, and a follow up letter, Courtney now claims that she never actually took alcohol onto her cruise, and that her original video was satirical.

She even suggests she may seek advice from a lawyer, despite claiming she doesn’t care that she is banned.

@courtneynicolemurley Replying to @Ashley yall please tag an attorney that can help me. Internet do your thing! Thank you 💕🫶🏻✨🛳️ #cruisegate #fyp #cruise #attorney #falseallegations #carnival #cruisetok ♬ NO SOUND – Sok Baraby

I doubt that anyone who sneaks alcohol onto a cruise but is caught at embarkation would be banned for life. Usually cruise lines will confiscate it, give the cruisers a mild ticking off at worst, and send them on their way.

It seems like Carnival really has a problem with guests who flout the rules and post on social media about their smuggling successes.

“This letter is to inform you that you will not be able to sail onboard any Carnival Cruise Line vessel in the future due to the smuggling of alcohol onboard the Carnival Conquest on March 31st, 2025, and subsequently posting about it on social media platforms.”

Letter sent by Carnival to Courtney Murley in May 2025

Of course, it’s not just boasting that they’ve beat the rules, but also potentially showing other guests how they could do the same – and that’s likely what Carnival is unhappy over.

Still, who knows? Maybe this is part of a serious crackdown and anyone using rum runners or other methods to sneak booze onto the ship might find themselves facing a ban.

Carnival already permits guests to bring one bottle of wine onboard their cruise, along with 12 x 330ml cans or cartons of soft drinks.

That’s not too dissimilar to other cruise lines:

Cruise Line Alcohol allowance per passenger Non-alcoholic drinks allowance per passenger
Carnival One bottle of wine 12 x 330ml cans or cartons
Celebrity Two bottles of wine No limit
Costa Not allowed Water only permitted for medical needs
Cunard One bottle of wine No limit
Disney Two bottles of wine or six beers No limit
MSC Cruises Not allowed Water only permitted for medical needs
NCL Unlimited wine – $15 fee per bottle Water only permitted for medical needs
P&O Cruises One litre of wine or Champagne No limit
Princess Cruises One bottle of wine for free.
$15 per additional bottle
No limit
Royal Caribbean One bottle of wine 12 x 500ml bottles, cans or cartons (per stateroom)

With the cruise line now starting to issue bans to guests who break the rules, you’ll definitely want to think twice about any plans to sneak your own alcohol onboard above the limit.

And if you do, definitely don’t post about it on social media – they are watching!

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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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5 Things That P&O Cruises Does Better Than Any Other Cruise Line

I’ve cruised on all five of P&O Cruises’ family-friendly ships. So, why do I keep coming back to this cruise line?

P&O Cruises Sign

There are a few reasons – some of them just things that P&O do quite well, but others that I think puts them completely above other cruise lines.

These aren’t for everyone but if you’re a cruising family, you might find that some of these put P&O at the top of your list too.

1. The Night Nursery

Child asleep in a tuxedo

For anyone cruising with children under five, P&O Cruises’ night nursery is an absolute godsend!

Open from 6 pm until 2 am each evening, parents can drop off their kids in a dark, quiet room, leaving two qualified members of staff to watch them while they sleep.

Nothing quite beats the feeling of skipping away from your happy children, with a glass of wine in your hand, knowing that you’re free to do whatever you like! Leisurely five-course meal? Theatre? Casino? Late-night comedy? Yes to everything!

Sitting around the dinner table, sipping wine with our new-found friends each evening, the conversation would usually turn to our children. “Where are they?”, our fellow diners would enquire.

“Oh, they’re asleep”, We’d reply.

“I bet that’s quite expensive, isn’t it?”, They’d ask.

“Nope! It’s free!”

Cue smug looks from us as we pour more wine.  

The night nursery opens at 6 pm, and children must be silent in there so as not to wake the others. Unless they’re old enough to understand that they must NOT wake the babies, they need to be either asleep or very sleepy when you settle them in to bed.

We’d usually leave our two in the kids’ club next door until around 9 or 10 pm (it’s open until 11), where they’d drift off watching a film, before moving them over to the night nursery.

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2. Children’s Tea

Kids tea on P&O

P&O Cruises offer a special children’s tea at 5 pm each evening. An area of the buffet is open just for families, with a whole host of daily-changing children’s favourites such as pizza, spaghetti, fish fingers, potato letters, fruit and vegetables.

Of course, children are welcome to eat at any other time, and in any of the restaurants, but we found the kids’ tea to be so convenient. We’d make sure the children enjoyed a decent meal around 5 pm, before sending them off to the kids’ club at 6 pm so that we could enjoy our evening in peace.

“You’re not allowed in kids’ club until you’ve finished your vegetables” always seemed to work well to get them to eat the green things too!

Suggested read: P&O Cruises Menus

3. The Breakfast Buffet

Buffet breakfast with P&O

Another highlight of our cruise was the breakfast buffet! I particularly liked that it was open from 6 am until 12 pm. That’s six full hours of breakfast time! I even had two breakfasts some days!

As I get up at the crack of dawn with the kids almost every day of the year, I hate the thought of them wanting to sleep in on holiday (which they often did, thanks to the evening fun of the kids’ club) only for me to have to set an alarm to not miss breakfast. No such worries with P&O Cruises!

Breakfast was also served in the main dining room for those who fancy a more formal affair. Or you can also have room service free of charge, delivered at a time to suit. Just hang a card on your door when you go to bed saying what you want and when.

4. The In-Room Television

TV in Britannia cabin

Now I’m never one for watching TV on holiday, but the in-cabin televisions on board P&O are worth a mention.

For starters, on the newer ships they’re really big! And you’ll find so much on there – cartoons, news channels, all kinds of movies, sports, weather, lots of radio stations and even a map showing where the ship is.

I also liked the bridge cam channel. If, like us, you’re in an inside cabin, switch the TV to the bridge cam to create a virtual window and to help you decide how to dress for the weather!

5. The Price!

Family with cruise ship in Barcelona

I work in the cruise industry, so spend a lot of time looking at cruises, and P&O Cruises seem to always come out cheaper than other cruise lines offering similar itineraries.

Whilst you won’t find water slides, rock-climbing walls and ice-rinks on board P&O cruise ships, the quality of service, food, entertainment and accommodation is just as good.

So, if you’re conscious of your budget or have been saving for a while for your cruise, I’d definitely recommend this cruise line as one to try.

Read more: How To To Find Family Cruises With Free Child Places

What’s more, P&O Cruises don’t add on a charge for tips (also known as gratuities) as most other cruise lines do.

Tips can cost anything up to £20 per person, per day – so with P&O Cruises you’re saving up to £560 on a two-week cruise for two people just on the cost of tips! Of course, if you still want to tip any members of staff they won’t refuse it, but this is in no way expected.

Alcohol Policy Changes

Bottle of Kopparberg Gin

P&O Cruises is one of the few cruise lines to let you bring your own alcohol on board. But the policy is nowhere near as good as it used to be, so I’ve removed this from the main list above!

Guests are permitted up to 1 litre of wine and Champagne onboard per person, to be consumed in your cabin. But you used to be allowed to bring a litre of spirits too – and me and my husband would often bring a bottle each with us, along with soft drinks for mixers.

Each evening, we’d call room service and ask for some ice (free of charge) and enjoy a couple of drinks whilst getting ready to head out for the evening.

Had we ordered all these drinks individually, based on 40 single measures in each litre bottle, it would have cost us £364!

So it’s a real shame that P&O changed the policy in May 2024.

If you’re a long-time P&O fan, you’ll know that there have been some serious cutbacks over the past 5 years or so.

Check out this post: 20 Things That P&O Cruises Used To Offer That They No Longer Do to see what’s not included any more.

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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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Cruise Guest Loses Nearly $20,000 in Sophisticated Phone Scam

A guest sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has fallen victim to a costly scam that saw nearly $20,000 stolen, after being duped by a caller posing as an NCL air department representative.

NCL Airfare Scam

Now, an actual NCL employee who heard the guest’s story is sounding the alarm to prevent others from making the same mistake.

The fraudulent call came from a 301 area code, which the guest mistakenly assumed was associated with NCL’s Miami-based operations.

The scammer claimed to be helping arrange flights for a large group travelling together – a service that seemed perfectly in line with cruise line offerings.

According to the NCL guest services representative, who shared the incident on Reddit, the victim split the airfare charge across two credit cards.

Days later, both cards were compromised.

How the Scam Unfolded – Twice

After the guest initially lost money to the scam, the fraudster struck again.

About a month later, the same individual contacted the guest with seemingly good news: the airfare price had dropped, and the difference would be refunded – if the guest could provide new card information.

Tragically, the victim complied, unknowingly handing over her new card details to the same scammer.

“This poor guest is now out close to twenty grand,” the NCL staffer said. “There’s nothing I can do except give her advice and help her contact her bank.”

Because the scam occurred entirely outside official NCL channels, the cruise line is unable to directly reimburse the guest – who must now rely on her bank’s fraud protections.

Warning Signs and Red Flags

NCL’s actual employees never call from a 301 area code (which covers parts of Maryland). Instead, they use the 305 area code (Miami) or occasionally 954 (Broward County, Florida), according to the employee who posted the warning.

UK calls will typically come from a number beginning 0333, which is non-regional, and could still be used by scammers, meaning UK customers should be extra vigilant.

These small but crucial details could help guests quickly identify a scam.

Whether you’re booked on a luxury cruise or a quick island getaway, the rise in sophisticated fraud schemes means you need to stay vigilant.

Here are tips shared by the NCL employee to help keep your identity and finances safe:

Question unexpected calls: If someone claiming to work for the cruise line calls you out of the blue, don’t hesitate to challenge them with basic questions they should know – such as your current balance due or final payment date.

Verify through official channels: If something feels off, hang up and call the cruise line directly using the number listed on their official website or your booking confirmation.

Never give out card details over the phone unless you initiated the call to a verified number.

Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your credit card and bank statements for unfamiliar charges, especially after speaking to anyone about your travel plans.

Use the official app: Many cruise lines, including NCL, provide notifications through their official app once onboard – and never by outside or unverified phone numbers.

As this unfortunate guest discovered, scammers are becoming more savvy and believable, especially when dealing with high-value bookings like group flights or shore excursions.

While this story ended in financial loss, the silver lining is that the warning may help others steer clear of the same trap.

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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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14 Top-Rated Hotels Just Minutes From Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port And Airport

Planning a cruise from Fort Lauderdale? Whether you’re flying in early or need a relaxing stop before heading home, these hotels are perfectly located near the airport and cruise terminal – so you can skip the stress and start your holiday in style.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA skyline

I’ve handpicked the best options within 2 miles of Port Everglades, so you won’t waste time (or money) on long transfers or expensive taxis.

Map Of Hotels Near Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Terminal

First, let’s take a look at the map to see where Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is compared with Port Everglades Cruise Terminal.

As you can see, the distance is just three miles and so the journey from Fort Lauderdale airport to the cruise port will take just 5 to 10 minutes in a taxi or shuttle bus.

So, if you’re staying overnight between your flight and cruise, it makes sense to choose a hotel that’s in the immediate vicinity. Many of the local hotels have pools, restaurants and free WiFi so that you can relax on the evening before and the morning of your cruise. Plus, it gives you a handy place to store your luggage while you go sightseeing.

The Best Hotels Near Fort Lauderdale Airport For Cruise Passengers

Now, let’s take a look at which is the best option for a hotel near Fort Lauderdale cruise port. I obviously haven’t stayed in all of these hotels myself, so instead, I’ve studied the online reviews, prices and what’s included in your stay.

Price: $$$

Perks:

  • Free WiFi
  • Multiple restaurants
  • Luggage storage

The Lago Mar Beach Resort is an impressive beach-front hotel situated just on the other side of the Stranahan River, which leads into Port Everglades, so you’re only a very short distance from the port – around a 9-minute drive in a taxi.

The major downside to the hotel is the lack of a shuttle service to the airport or cruise terminal, but it’s easy enough to make your own way.

It’s a stunning 4* resort that has some fantastic family facilities, so whether you’re staying for just one night or you’re looking to extend your holiday, you’ll love your time here. There are multiple restaurants to choose from, and some excellent sports facilities. You can even book a pre-cruise massage if you’re feeling fancy.

And you’ll get a great view of the cruise ships coming into port, which is a fantastic way to get excited about your voyage. 

Price: $$$

Perks:

  • Free WiFi
  • Airport shuttle service
  • Within walking distance of some terminals

The Hyatt Place hotel is one of the best-situated hotels for the cruise port – you’re less than a mile from the Royal Caribbean and Princess terminals, so you can walk straight there from the hotel on the morning of your cruise.

It’s only two miles from the airport as well, with a free shuttle service running in both directions.

The hotel itself is pleasant and modern, with free WiFi access in guest rooms along with a large flat-screen TV. There’s a cafe on site serving snacks and Starbucks coffee, as well as 24-hour meals, while there’s an outdoor pool if you’ve got some time to kill with the kids.

Price: $$$

Perks:

  • Free WiFi
  • Airport shuttle service
  • Within walking distance of some terminals
  • Luggage storage

The Crowne Plaza is a chain hotel brand that you can trust for quality, and this particular hotel also benefits from a fantastic location, right in the middle of the airport and cruise terminal. There’s a free airport shuttle service, and you could either walk the mile to the cruise terminal or just hop in a cab since the cost will be low.

Rooms are clean and modern, with free WiFi. The hotel has a restaurant serving TexMex and international dishes, and there’s a cocktail bar, too if you want to get into the cruise mood a little early.

Price: $$$

Perks:

  • Luggage storage
  • Within walking distance of some terminals

The Renaissance is a really attractive and stylish hotel that’s very close to the cruise terminals, offering a relaxing place to unwind the day before or after your sailing.

It does have some downsides – there are no shuttle services to or from the airport, and WiFi isn’t available at the hotel either. Wired internet is available in the reception area, but it costs $10 per day to use it.

But if that’s not important, then you’ll enjoy a beautiful and quiet hotel with a swimming pool, and there’s luggage storage, too, if you have a bit of time after you check out to explore the area.

Price: $$

This boutique hotel is a smaller, family-run location with a beautiful sun terrace where you can unwind. It’s a little further out from the cruise terminal – you’re going to need a taxi to get there and back – but the journey is still fast; you can have a lazier morning while you get ready to board.

Being smaller, there aren’t a lot of facilities at the hotel, but you can at least enjoy free WiFi throughout, and there are family rooms available. There’s also an ATM, which could be useful for stocking up on some currency that you can dish out as tips on your cruise.

Price: $$$

Perks: 

  • Free WiFi
  • Airport shuttle service
  • Luggage storage

The Four Points is a mid- to premium-range hotel with good facilities, including a large fitness centre and the 1800 Bistro & Bar, which offers American dishes for breakfast and dinner. There’s free WiFi and a heated swimming pool and sun terrace if you have time to relax a little.

In terms of location, it’s really close to the airport – just 8 minutes away – with a free shuttle running back and forth. It’s just outside a comfortable walking distance to the cruise terminal if you have a lot of luggage – about 1.5 miles – but you won’t need an expensive cab to get you there either.

Price: $$$

Perks:

  • Within walking distance of some terminals
  • Luggage storage

The Embassy Suites by Hilton is a luxurious hotel situated in an incredible location, with some cruise terminals just a 10-minute walk away. It’s the ideal place if you want the quickest journey to the port in the morning, without sacrificing hotel quality.

However, while the rooms are spacious and immaculate, and the swimming pool is idyllic, there are some downsides. WiFi access is charged at this hotel, as is the service for the airport shuttle. For a pricey hotel, it’s a shame you also have to pay for these extras, while other cheaper hotels include them free.

Price: $$$

Perks: 

  • Free WiFi
  • Airport shuttle service
  • Within walking distance of some terminals
  • Luggage storage

Holiday Inn Express is traditionally a budget hotel chain – a step up from motels, but offering simple, clean accommodation with few frills or extra benefits. This one breaks the mould a little, because it has some nice perks, including free airport shuttles and free WiFi, and it has a great location within a few minutes walk of the cruise terminal.

But it’s also not cheap – in fact, it’s more expensive than some of the traditionally premium chain hotels situated close by. But if you’re travelling from the UK or Ireland, you’ll really appreciate the traditional breakfasts served – a great way to start embarkation day.

Price: $$$$

Perks:

  • Free WiFi
  • Concierge service
  • Multiple restaurants

If you want a magnificent hotel as a way of starting your cruise in style, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better choice than the Marriott. Expect excellent service and quality from the moment you step into reception until the second you check out. And also expect to pay for that service – prices at the Marriott are significantly higher than other hotels in the area.

You’re also a little further away from the cruise port, without any shuttle services running to the terminal or to the airport, which at this price level is a little disappointing. But if you’re determined to splash out on the best vacation possible, then the Marriott is the ideal luxury choice for your pre-cruise stay.

Price: $$$$

Perks:

  • Within walking distance of some terminals
  • Luggage storage

The Hilton at the Fort Lauderdale Marina has everything you would expect from a classic Hilton hotel – premium guest rooms furnished with high-quality linens, a modern and upmarket restaurant serving continental breakfasts and a varied dinner menu, and excellent service from every member of staff.

Unfortunately, it shares the same problems as it does with its Embassy Suites – WiFi is not free (and costs quite a bit, at $10 per day), and there are no complimentary shuttles. You are only a short walk from the cruise terminals, at least.

Price: $

While this list is looking at the best hotels, it’s important to remember that you may not want the very best hotel if you’re just looking for a place to rest your head the night before you cruise, instead of flying in on embarkation day in a rush. The Budget Inn, as the name suggests, is a no-frills choice that’s a short taxi ride from the airport and cruise terminal.

Rooms are clean and perfectly comfortable, with a modern style. And there’s free WiFi, which not even some of the most luxury hotel chains nearby can offer to guests. For a cheap stay, this is a great choice.

Price: $

Perks:

  • Free WiFi
  • Within walking distance of some terminals

Don’t let the name fool you – this hotel doesn’t just offer extended stays, and you can book it for a single night before your cruise sails, or once you’ve disembarked from the ship.

It’s another budget option that is very similar in style to the Budget Inn, but in a much better location – you’re just a few minutes’ walk from some of the cruise terminals, including Princess and Royal Caribbean. It’s slightly more expensive per night, but still cheap enough to be considered a budget option.

Price: $$

The Haven Hotel is another budget-friendly hotel option that’s closer to the airport than the cruise terminal, but still just within a short distance of the port if you’re getting a cab ride. The rooms are light and modern, if a little basic, but you do get free WiFi access.

While the hotel facilities are basic, there are plenty of restaurants in close walking distance, so it’s a good base for a pre-cruise stay if you can’t get booked into the cheaper Extended Stay America Suites hotel.

Price: $

The Vacation Inn Motel is very close to the Haven Hotel, meaning it’s another good choice if you want to be close to the airport and only a short Uber or cab ride from the port terminal.

This is cheaper than the Haven Hotel, but that’s reflected in the quality. Rooms are definitely comfortable, but the decor is a little retro – it’s very much the motel vibe.

Still, free WiFi access is convenient, especially at these prices, and you’re close to restaurants. If you’re just looking for a basic room to take away the rush of embarkation day, then there’s nothing wrong with a cheap night in this friendly motel.

Recommendation

While there are some excellent hotels on this list to suit a range of budgets, my recommendation would be the Lago Mar Beach Resort, especially if you’re cruising with the family. It’s not the most expensive, but as a resort, it’s packed with things to see and do, which is great if you have a few hours to kill and don’t want to wander too far.

The service is great, the food gets really good reviews too, and you have a view of the ships coming into port, which is fun for the whole family – nothing’s more exciting than seeing your ship arrive, if you’re awake early enough anyway!

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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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17 Must-Try Cozumel Restaurants Just Steps From The Cruise Port

Docking in Cozumel? Don’t settle for tourist traps when some of Mexico’s best fajitas and margaritas are just a short stroll away.

Port at Cozumel, Mexico

From sizzling beachfront grills to hidden gems in town, I’ve rounded up the top spots near all three cruise ports – so you can eat like a local without straying far from the ship.

Punta Langosta

If you’re sailing with NCL, MSC, or Holland America, you’ll likely dock at Punta Langosta, the cruise pier that is actually much closer to the downtown area. But the other two Cozumel cruise terminal options are around 3 miles south.

International Cruise Terminal

The International Cruise Terminal or International Pier Cozumel hosts Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and some MSC ships.

Punta Maya

The Punta Maya pier is just a couple of hundred yards further south from the International Cruise Terminal and is used by ships owned by the Carnival Corporation.

Here are 19 of the best restaurants that you can easily reach within a short walk of all three piers.

Best Restaurants Near The International Cruise Terminal

1. IX Kool

Top view inside IX Kool restaurant
Photo Courtesy of IX Kool Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 2 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 50 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mayan
  • Price: $$$

IX Kool is without a doubt the most popular restaurant within walking distance of the Cozumel cruise port, with a fantastic reputation for both its cuisine and its service.

Offering a mix of dishes from across Central America, you’ll enjoy some incredible dishes with a wide selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. And throughout, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the dishes served thanks to the large video screens.

The wait staff are personable and hard-working, making you feel like a special guest and ensuring you have an amazing experience every time. Definitely try to get a table here if you have the chance.

Tip – some Carnival cruises offer a cooking course excursion here – book it if you can!

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

2. Three Amigos

Three Amigos Restaurant in Cozumel
Photo Courtesy of Three Amigos Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 5 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 55 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mexican & Caribbean
  • Price: $$

A friendly and lively restaurant with tables overlooking the ocean, this is a fun place to visit and sample some classic Mexican dishes as well as other options inspired by the Caribbean.

But just as much as the food, the wait staff at Three Amigos have an amazing reputation for making your meal an experience. They’re engaging, light-hearted and extremely welcoming, with most reviews mentioning the servers by name and how good they were.

Tip – everybody raves about the nachos here, so if you’re a nacho fan then make sure to sample them.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

3. Senor Frog’s Costa Sur

Friends enjoying drinks at Senor Frog’s Costa Sur
Photo Courtesy of Senor Frog’s Costa Sur Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 2 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 55 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mexican and International
  • Price: $$$

Senor Frog’s is a chain that offers a fun and lively time. If you want fine dining, then avoid – this is all about great food and great company, ideal for the whole family.

Alongside Mexican dishes, there are plenty of international options for the fussy eaters in your group, including a popular but messy Mac & Cheese burger. Don’t be surprised if your waiter brings you various tequila shots to try as well…

Tip – if you’re planning a trip to Senor Frog’s, there’s a larger and more popular venue in the town centre but that’s an hour away – make sure you put the Costa Sur one into your phone for directions.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

4. Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville

Staff dancing outside Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville restaurant
Photo Courtesy of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 4 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 53 min walk
  • Cuisine: Caribbean
  • Price: $$

Another chain that you may have heard of or visited elsewhere, there really isn’t a party like a Jimmy Buffett’s party. With a range of meals and light snacks available along with plenty of tasty margaritas, tequila shots and other drinks, there’s a lot to love here.

The menu has a wider Caribbean influence, so expect spicy fajitas, seafood dishes and lighter sandwiches, as well as various nachos and chips (crisps) options as sides.

Tip – while this is a fun-packed venue, it’s not always the best for families. People enjoy a drink here, and it can get a little rowdy.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

5. Paprika Mexican & Caribbean Cuisine

People inside Paprika Mexican & Caribbean Cuisine restaurant
Photo Courtesy of Paprika Mexican & Caribbean Cuisine Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 8 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 44 min walk
  • Cuisine: Caribbean
  • Price: $$

Not every venue in Cozumel is super lively, and if you want a more relaxed and traditional dining experience, then Paprika is a solid choice. It offers a menu that has some Mexican dishes but is very much Caribbean-inspired, including some excellent seafood options.

It tends to attract more locals than tourists, despite its proximity to the cruise port and beach, which can be a good thing if you want to try to beat the crowds and enjoy a little more downtime with your food. Service is also excellent.

Tip – the outdoor tables have a wonderfully relaxing view across the beach, so try to grab one of those.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

6. Alberto’s Beach Bar & Restaurant

People dining at Alberto's Beach Bar & Restaurant
Photo Courtesy of Alberto’s Beach Bar & Restaurant Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 5 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 55 min walk
  • Cuisine: Seafood
  • Price: $$

In a little more secluded spot, Alberto’s offers stunning views across the ocean as well as some of the freshest fish and shellfish that you’ll find in all of Cozumel. It does have a good selection of vegan options, too.

The atmosphere is pretty chilled and welcoming – it’s not a posh restaurant, but it’s not gaudy either. Expect some live music to be playing, which can get a little lively at times.

Tip – listen to the servers, as they’ll know the best seafood dish of the day to sample.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

7. Ernesto’s Fajitas

Foods at Ernesto's Fajitas restaurant
Photo Courtesy of Ernesto’s Fajitas Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 6 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 46 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Price: $

If you just want to try some simple but seriously tasty Mexican dishes, then Ernesto’s is a solid bet, especially as they have some fantastic dishes for vegetarians and vegans too. It’s in a busy area, so don’t expect a really relaxed meal, but the food is served quickly, it’s full of flavour, and the service is also friendly and efficient.

It does get a little bit crowded at times as both tourists and locals love Ernesto’s, but it’s worth it if you have the chance – the fajitas are just excellent, and really affordable too.

Tip – Ernesto’s also serves a fantastic breakfast, and going here early will help you beat the crowds.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

8. Sereno Roof Bar & Restaurant

People dining at Sereno Roof Bar & Restaurant
Photo Courtesy of Sereno Roof Bar & Restaurant Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 15 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 37 min walk
  • Cuisine: International
  • Price: $$$

Sereno is a little further afield if you’re arriving at Punta Maya or the International Cruise Terminal, away from the port but still within comfortable walking distance, and your reward for the journey is an incredible rooftop view out across the ocean. But the food is also outstanding, with a fantastic menu that includes Mediterranean, Caribbean and Latin American influences.

The service is stunning, with an attitude of doing everything possible to please you and the atmosphere feels a world away from the bustling port despite being so close.

Tip – there’s no lunch menu, only brunch until 2pm and then dinner, so if you’re visiting earlier then expect a range of lighter bites.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

9. Tikila Beach Bar

View of Tikila Beach Bar's deck
Photo Courtesy of Tikila Beach Bar Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 7 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 44 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Price: $

The Tikila Beach Bar is a friendly spot that’s popular with divers, so it’s fun to sit here and grab a bite as you watch people heading off on their exciting excursions.

The menu is pretty small but includes some cheap and cheerful dishes, including Mexican favourites and fantastic spicy shrimp. Definitely more of a “bar with food” than a restaurant, but it’s still a good place to enjoy a light lunch.

Tip – because it’s a diving spot, it does get busy. If you want a calmer atmosphere then head somewhere else.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

10. Carl’s Jr

hand holding Carl’s Jr burger
Photo Courtesy of Carl’s Jr Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 3 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 52 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mexican Fast Food
  • Price: $

You won’t find a McDonald’s or similar fast food restaurant within walking distance of the Cozumel cruise port, but Carl’s Jr is your next-best bet. 

It’s a clean and modern fast-food joint with plenty of indoor seating where you can enjoy burgers, potato wedges and more with a Mexican twist. If you just want a cheap bite to tide you over for the day, this is the place to go.

Tip – try the monkfish if you want to sample something a little more unusual for a fast food joint, it’s very popular.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

11. Hard Rock Cafe

Woman dining at Hard Rock Cafe
Photo Courtesy of Hard Rock Cafe Facebook
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 3 min walk
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 50 min walk
  • Cuisine: American
  • Price: $$$

The Hard Rock Cafe in Cozumel is a good choice if you’re not particularly adventurous and you just want a chain restaurant that you know you can rely on. Serving a wide-ranging American menu with a few Mexican dishes, there’s something for everyone.

Nothing is particularly exciting, but the good is generally good. It’s expensive, though, even for a tourist restaurant, and while most reviews are positive, there are some that criticise the value for money of the venue.

Tip – head here if you want simple burgers or sandwiches, but for Mexican dishes there are much better choices nearby.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

Best Restaurants Near The Punta Langosta Pier

12. Bajau Seafood & Steakhouse

view of Bajau Seafood & Steakhouse
Photo Courtesy of Bajau Seafood & Steakhouse Facebook
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 5 min walk
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 64 min walk
  • Cuisine: Steakhouse and Seafood
  • Price: $$$

This upmarket restaurant is only a short walk from the Punta Lagosta Pier and it is definitely worth the trip. The service is stunning, and the food is even more so.

Expect beautifully fresh fish dishes and steak that melts in your mouth. This is definitely a fine dining experience, so don’t turn up in your t-shirt and shorts, ideally. Reservations are recommended and the ocean views are incredible.

Tip – the most popular options here tend to be the seafood tacos, especially the salmon and the shrimp, so give those a go.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

13. Crazy King Burrito

Happy people outside Crazy King Burrito
Photo Courtesy of Crazy King Burrito Facebook
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 5 min walk
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 63 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Price: $

The reviews for Crazy King Burrito rave about the quality of the food here, with many naming it as the best place in all of Cozumel to get a burrito. High praise indeed.

The burritos are absolutely loaded with quality fresh ingredients, with a range of menu choices to suit those who prefer subtle flavours and the brave folks who like something with a serious kick to it. Service is highly rated, too.

Tip – as well as the burritos, be sure to try the homemade drinks here – reviewers comment on just how refreshing they are.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

14. K’ooben Laab

a serving of Calamarata de masa madre at K'ooben Laab
Photo Courtesy of K’ooben Laab Facebook
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 16 min walk
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 59 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Price: $$

While most people want to try traditional Mexican cuisine in Cozumel, there are some great Mediterranean restaurants too, and K’ooben Laab is ideal if you want a refreshing salad or a beautiful homemade pasta dish.

It’s not fine dining – it’s simple, good-quality food in a relaxed atmosphere with friendly, attentive service. Dishes are packed with flavour and extremely fresh, and the desserts are just as tasty too.

Tip – K’ooben Laab has a really good reputation – which means it is often busy. If you’re able to reserve a table in advance, you won’t feel rushed.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

15. Colores Y Sabores

view of Colores Y Sabores restaurant
Photo Courtesy of Colores Y Sabores Facebook
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 6 min walk
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 54 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mexican and Seafood
  • Price: $$

Translating as “colours and flavours”, this restaurant absolutely lives up to its name with beautiful, fresh dishes combining authentic Mexican cuisine with a selection of fresh seafood options.

You’ll enjoy music from surrounding locations and a wonderful, personable service team, including the friendly owner. But the main attraction is the food, which is packed with sumptuous flavours. Oh, and the margaritas are popular too.

Tip – try the lobster – everyone raves about it.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

16. La Mission

servings of tacos at La Mission restaurant
Photo Courtesy of La Mission Facebook
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 4 min walk
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 61 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mexican and Seafood
  • Price: $$

La Mission is another restaurant that excels with its range of Mexican dishes that includes a lot of fresh seafood fare – the fish tacos, in particular, are extremely popular.

The restaurant certainly offers a slice of authentic Mexican cooking and atmosphere, with a lot of live music and the chance to try tasting platters of different foods. With soups, seafood, meat, burritos, steaks and more, there’s something for everyone.

Tip – as part of the experience, expect to be serenaded by Mariachi singers, and offered tasters of tequila – but they’ll also be expecting tips.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

17. Guido’s

view of Guido's restaurant
Photo Courtesy of Guido’s Facebook
  • Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 5 min walk
  • Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 63 min walk
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Price: $$

Guido’s is an Italian-style restaurant with wonderfully fresh food on offer, including homemade pasta and beautiful salads. It has a picturesque outdoor seating terrace too, surrounded by vines and offering a haven of calm in this busy port town.

As with so many of the restaurants near the coast in Cozumel, the seafood here is often a favourite of guests. In particular, the scallops and the calamari often get a specific mention in reviews, so give those a try if you’re a fan.

Tip – a super popular restaurant, Guido’s doesn’t accept reservations, so get there early if you want to experience their great food.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor

Recommendation

If you’re only going to try one restaurant close to the Cozumel cruise port, then definitely aim for IX Kool. The food and service are amazing, and if your cruise offers a cookery course here, then you’ll have a ton of fun and you’ll enjoy incredible flavours while you do it.

There’s plenty you can see and do around Cozumel too, so make sure you leave enough time in your busy day to grab yourself a meal at one of the Cozumel cruise port restaurants.

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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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How You Can Unlock The Benefits

Thinking about buying shares in Holland America Line to get shareholder benefits? There’s just one catch – you can’t. But that’s actually great news.

Holland America is part of the Carnival Corporation, the world’s biggest cruise company. So when you invest, you’re not just backing one cruise line – you’re opening the door to perks across multiple brands, including Carnival, P&O, Cunard and, yes, Holland America too.

Holland America Line ship

Here’s how it works and exactly what you’ll get.

Shares and Benefits

As long as you have bought 100 shares of the Carnival Corporation or more, you’re entitled to claim the shareholder benefits on your next Holland America cruise. Those benefits are:

  • $250 or £150 of onboard credit per stateroom on cruises of 14 days or longer
  • $100 or £60 of onboard credit per stateroom on cruises of 7 to 13 days
  • $50 or £30 of onboard credit per stateroom on cruises of 6 days or fewer

It is only a benefit that applies per stateroom, so if both you and your partner decided to invest in the Carnival Corporation and you both had 100 shares separately, you couldn’t claim the benefit twice.

Holland America Line Stateroom

There are some other conditions that you need to be aware of as well. You can’t claim this benefit if you’re employed by the company, and it can’t be used in conjunction with any other shipboard offer for onboard credit.

Plus, there are a couple of things you can’t spend it on – namely, gratuities that have been added to your account or at the casino.

But the good news is that you can claim an onboard spend benefit on every single cruise you take – it’s not just the first cruise after you become a shareholder.

Also, the benefit applies to all cruise lines in the Carnival Corporation, although the value is different based on the currency on board.

The onboard credit you get is given to you in US dollars on sailings from the US with the following cruise lines:

  • Carnival
  • Cunard Line
  • Costa
  • Princess Cruises
  • Seabourn

You get the same sort of benefit on UK cruises with Cunard, P&O Cruises and any British cruises with Princess Cruises, but the values are in GBP and are £150, £60 and £30, respectively.

Cruises booked in Australia on P&O Cruises Australia, Carnival or Princess Cruises entitle you to the same number of Australian dollars as US dollars on American sailings. If you’re on a Costa or AIDA cruise in Europe that uses Euros as the onboard currency, the values are €200, €75 or €40.

Cruise Line 14+ Days 7-13 Days Up to 6 Days
US Cruise Lines $250 $100 $50
UK Cruise Line £150 £60 £30
Australian Cruise Lines $250 $100 $50
European Cruise Lines €200 €75 €40
Since I mentioned the benefits of buying Carnival shares in my weekly email, I’ve had lots of people email me to say that they’ve also bought shares and are happy to receive the free onboard credit. Like this one…

“We took your advice and bought 100 Carnival shares which cost £550. Two Cunard trips gave us £250 each extra onboard spend and another gave us $200 (£175) total £675, also the shares have gone up £175. Best investment I’ve ever made, thankyou, keep up the good work.”

Robert and Veronica Dennehy

Of course, the Holland America share price (well, the Carnival share price) can go down as well as up, so remember it’s always a risk you’re taking.

How To Buy Carnival Shares

To buy shares in any company, you’ll typically need to use a stockbroker. This can be either a human being or an online platform. There are various fees involved with this, but an online platform is usually the cheapest and easiest way.

I can’t advise you which is the best, but I personally chose to buy my Carnival shares through an investing platform called eToro. I chose this one because it is one of the most popular platforms with 20 million registered users and has great reviews and low fees.

I’ve been very happy with my share-buying experience and found it really easy to do.

(eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.)

Read more: Should You Invest In Carnival Corp?

Cruise mummy with Holland America Ship

How to Claim Carnival Shareholder Benefits On Holland America Cruises

To claim your shareholder benefits on a Holland America cruise that you’ve booked, you need to ask for them. They aren’t automatic! But the Holland America shares benefits are worth claiming each time – it’s free money on your cruise.

You need to make your claim at least four weeks before you are due to sail, but the sooner the better. And you’ll need to provide:

  • Your legal name
  • Your booking number
  • Your ship and sailing date
  • Proof of your stock ownership

You won’t be able to claim if you miss your deadline, so try to be organised to provide this information as early as possible. And you have to go through this process every time you book a cruise with Holland America or any other cruise line in the group, so don’t forget on each new sailing.

Important – Whereas Holland America used to let you claim the credit via fax and then later email, now it’s all handled via an app called Stockperks.

You’ll need to download the app to your smartphone, then verify the stock you own by taking a photo of the key details.

Here’s a video showing you how the Stockperks app works:

You can get all the details you need from the shareholder platform you use – so eToro for me.

To Conclude

It’s really important to be clear that, any time you buy stocks or shares in a company, you’re taking a risk. The cruise industry is the same – just look at the global shutdown in 2020, and the effect that had on cruise line share prices, and you’ll see what I mean. There’s no guarantee that your money will be safe.

However, with that warning given, you might still want to invest in something, and a cruise company could be a great idea if you love cruising. Choosing Carnival Corporation shares also gets you the benefits with Holland America cruises and all other cruise lines in that company.

A person is seated at a desk, working on financial planning. They are writing in a notebook with a pen while using a calculator. The desk is scattered with coins, a pink piggy bank, dollar bills, and financial documents, all suggesting a focus on saving money and budgeting. The scene reflects a careful and organized approach to managing personal finances.

I’m no stockbroker or financial advisor, so I can’t tell you that it IS a good idea, but it might be. You have to use your own judgement or seek professional advice. And if you do buy 100 shares or more, your next Holland America cruise will have some free spends to enjoy – if you claim them.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Holland America Line offers…

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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.

Read more about me


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