Scandinavia is a part of the world that I’ve always enjoyed visiting, as there’s so much history and culture to soak up. One day, you find yourself docked in a bustling city centre and the next, a quaint seaside town. When Ambassador Cruise Line advertised their 12-night ‘Treasures of Denmark and Sweden’ sailing aboard Ambition, I knew that was a cruise for me.
I’d sailed previously with Ambassador, to the Canaries, Madeira and Morocco, aboard Ambience, but this time, I’d join her fleet sister, Ambition, for the first time. We sailed from Newcastle and called into Dundee, Copenhagen, Fredericia, Ronne, Visby, Stockholm and Aarhus. I’ll point out that embarkation was well organised and swift. It was the fastest check-in and onboard turnaround I’ve experience on any cruise.
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I always enjoy walking around Stockholm, I know the Gamla Stan area quite well, yet when I walk through all the winding streets, I always feel lost in another world. There are cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops and stores selling more traditional Swedish gifts and other items. Granted, things in this part of the world can be very expensive, so I don’t tend to buy much, if anything, I just enjoy the vibe and atmosphere.
Ronne was a charming delight. I’d visited on a previous cruise, but I couldn’t remember much about it. Eventually, the penny dropped. I think it was because during my first visit, it was very busy but this time, everywhere was very quiet. It’s a nice place to stroll around and there’s some wonderful architecture to enjoy as you go. I’d also never seen so many conkers in my life – they were everywhere! Hundreds of them littering the grass verges and cobbled streets. It brought back childhood memories of having conker fights at school. I used to spend hours toughening them up and putting them on string to battle with others in the playground.
Copenhagen was another port I’d previously visited and having done Tivoli and Nyhavn, I decided to use the free shuttle bus service and just walk around at my own pace. I’m glad I did, as I discovered things I’d not previously stumbled on, and I finally got to see the Little Mermaid minus graffiti. I explored the Kastellet, one of Northern Europe’s best-preserved fortifications. Today, it’s used as a military establishment and is a conserved area. It is constructed in the form of a pentagon with bastions at its corners. Kastellet was continuous with the ring of bastioned ramparts which used to encircle Copenhagen but of which only the ramparts of Christianshavn remain today. The grounds are lovely, and the windmill is quite impressive.
Overall, I enjoyed the itinerary very much. I thought it was well planned and well executed. Nothing was rushed and there were always more than enough shuttle buses, so no huge queues all the time, or people complaining.
Ambition is a very comfortable ship with ample public areas for guests to enjoy, including The Angel Bar, Purple Turtle, a vast pool deck, large spa, theatre and more. The onboard entertainment team were very good. It wasn’t singing and dancing all the time, it was a combination of things, and it piqued my interest.
One thing on Ambition that I preferred over Ambience was the Saffron restaurant, as it had its own dedicated space. Whereas on Ambience, it is nestled right in the middle of the buffet. Having its own dedicated space just made it feel a bit more special.
There are numerous dining options available, including Lupino’s and as previously mentioned, Saffron. I dined at both during my cruise and found the menus varied, I was most surprised by my meal in Lupino’s. When I’d first looked at the menu, I wasn’t blown away by the main course choices, but it turned out to be one of my favourite meals of the cruise. I can recommend the chicken souvlaki. Lupino’s is an additional charge of £14.95 per person.
Fresh breads and dips, a lovely starter and then a delicious main course, that sums up Saffron. I chose the murgh makhani (butter chicken) and couldn’t fault it. One thing I did notice was that the menu said the meal came with a pea pilau, but when they brought the rice to the table it was pilau with apple and pineapple. I wasn’t convinced at first, but it’s one of the nicest rice dishes I’ve ever tried. I can’t really explain the flavour – you’ll have to try it! Saffron is an additional charge of £19.95 per person.
I’d highly recommend Ambassador for solo cruisers and couples. I do a lot of solo cruising and find the size of Ambassador’s ships perfect for having my own space but also socialising when I choose to. Although Ambassador is predominantly child-free, they do offer a selection of multi-generational cruises, so the entire family can cruise together. These tend to be offered during school holiday periods.
On one evening, although they were covered slightly by cloud, the Northern Lights were visible in the sky. I could just make out tones of pink and green, so that was a nice surprise! It was quite a windy evening, but I braved the top outer decks to snap a few images.
If you’re new to cruising or considering Ambassador for the first time, then one of their mini-cruise itineraries would be the perfect option. These tend to be from 1-to-5-night sailings and are the ideal chance to experience everything this cruise line has to offer. An added bonus is that they all sail from UK ports, so there’s no need to factor in airports and flights – you can start your cruise holiday with less stress.
HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) Unveils New Fleet Brand Colours as Part of Evolutionary Rebrand
HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions), the world’s oldest expedition cruise company, today announced the introduction of its new fleet livery colours in its brand colours of ‘Indigo Blue’ and ‘sand’, marking a key milestone in the continued evolution of its standalone brand.
This new chapter follows the initial HX brand launch in December 2023 and signals the final stages of a transformative rebranding journey as HX officially separated last month from its Norwegian heritage sister brand of Hurtigruten. The new colours aim to reflect the company’s forward-thinking vision and continued commitment to providing unparalleled and responsible expedition experiences for its guests.
The new livery colour palette takes inspiration from marine wildlife with colors such as ‘pearl, sand and Arctic white.’ The iconic red and black colours previously used by the Hurtigruten Group have long been associated with the heritage sister brand of Hurtigruten, which will continue to use those colors and will remain unchanged. This new visual identity for HX introduces a distinct and modern look and ensures that guests won’t get confused in places like Norway where the two brands will still co-exist.
HX has already introduced a series of changes, including a revamped website, new indigo blue jacket for guests, and a comprehensive overhaul of branded materials – all carefully designed to reflect the company’s rich history while embracing a bold new future all focused on sustainability, science and expertise going back to our first sailings in 1896.
“This is the next important step in the HX brand evolution” said Gebhard Rainer, CEO of HX “The rebrand of our fleet is not just about aesthetics, it’s about creating an experience that resonates with our guests on every level. Our new fleet colours are a reflection of who we are today and where we are heading, while also maintaining a respectful distinction from our heritage brand, which will continue to proudly represent its own legacy in red and black.”
This new fleet rollout is just one of the many steps the company has taken since the brand launch in late 2023. The rebranding journey, which included extensive customer and market feedback, has been thoughtfully executed to ensure continuity of the company’s core values while embracing growth, innovation, and differentiation in the marketplace.
With the evolution now entering its final stage, HX remains steadfast in its dedication to delivering unparalleled expedition experiences both in the polar regions and in warm water destinations such as the Galapagos, now with a refreshed identity that guests will quickly come to recognise and appreciate.
Carnival Cruise Line is warning passengers not to try to bring their home coffee makers onto their ships, after the cruise line’s Brand Ambassador revealed an interesting message he received.
We recently asked our own followers on Facebook, “If you could add ONE thing to your cruise cabin, what would it be?”. Overwhelmingly, the most mentioned item was either a coffee maker or a Keurig machine.
So, it seems cruisers love their coffee almost as much as cruising, and they’re really wishing they could brew it right by their stateroom.
But after a “Diamond” level cruise passenger’s coffee maker was confiscated, John Heald decided to take the opportunity to warn other passengers.
The passenger’s complaint, posted on Heald’s Facebook page, revealed a “brewing frustration” (pun definitely intended) with onboard coffee options and a perceived inconsistency in policy enforcement.
“We had our Mr. Coffee confiscated on our Radiance journey cruise John. This ruined the experience we had been looking forward to for many months,” the passenger wrote, detailing their disappointment with room service coffee that was “either luke warm, too strong or watered down.” They felt, as “diamond cruisers,” they should “a) have the right to bring a coffee pot with us. b) have a coffee maker in our room.”
Adding fuel to the fire, the passenger claimed to have encountered another cruiser who had successfully smuggled a “portable French Press (via Amazon)” past security. “I would like an explanation to this John,” they demanded.
Heald, known for his candid and often humorous responses, responded directly.
“Thank you so much for writing and thank you for your loyalty,” he began, before delivering the bad news. “Well, I checked on Uncle Google and our website and Mr Coffee cannot be brought on board just as Madam Le French Press cannot be brought on the ship either.”
Heald suggested alternatives, advising the passenger to “call 8000 for another pot and ask them to make it stronger or hotter and as always our crew will do their very best for you. We have excellent coffee on Lido and of course specialty coffees from the Java Blue café.”
He ended his post with a question for his followers: “Where do you get your morning coffee from everyone and what are your thoughts on this coffee post?”
The comments section of Heald’s post was quickly filled with caffeinated opinions and experiences.
“As Diamond you deserve to follow the rules like everyone else. Feel entitled much?” one commenter stated.
Others voiced their opinions on the onboard coffee quality. One admitted, “Lido coffee isn’t awesome sadly. Java Blue is better,” while others encouraged people to embrace the cruise experience as it is, saying, ‘if you want things like they are at home, then we need to just stay home.’
It should be noted that most cruise lines do not allow passengers to pack a coffee maker, so this is not a unique rule for Carnival.
A more common theme in the comments was simply being satisfied with what was offered, even if it wasn’t the same as their own coffee at home.
“I wasn’t thrilled with the coffee but it was no big deal and by far would t ruin my trip. Zero chance I would haul a coffee maker though,” another comment fairly stated.
This word cloud shows what our readers wish they could have in their staterooms, based on the question from our Facebook page.
Carnival’s policy page for prohibited items on their website clearly states that “coffee machines” are not allowed, in addition to several other electrical appliances that could cause issues.
“Electrical and household appliances containing any kind of heating element, such as irons, clothes steamers, immersion heaters, heating blankets, water heaters, coffee machines, hot plates, toasters, heating pads, humidifier, etc,” the policy states.
Coffee drama aside, it’s clear cruisers are passionate about their brews. Will Carnival ever budge on the coffee maker ban? As long as it’s a safety issue that’s unlikely to happen. While coffee quality can always be improved, this is more about the convenience of a morning cup of coffee than anything else.
And our readers were pretty clear that even though coffee makers aren’t allowed on board, it’s a dream that many wish would come true.
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Carnival Corporation & plc wants to build and maintain more efficient cruise ships. And it’s willing to tap into some sci-fi methods to make that happen. Drones, robots, and air bubbles will all play a role in helping make the cruise line save money on fuel.
In a recent press release, Carnival announced a plan to reach greater fuel efficiency and reduce cruise ship drag.
“We’re not just tinkering here – we’re looking at every available area for improvement for how our cruise ships operate,” chief maritime officer for Carnival Corporation, Lars Ljoen stated.
“By combining state-of-the-art hull designs, advanced propulsion technology and years of experience, we’re continuously enhancing our ships’ performance.”
Cruise lines spend a lot of money on fuel. In fact, Cruise Market Watch estimates that almost 8% of a cruise ship’s operating cost is on fuel. So, if they can reduce fuel costs while making their ships more efficient, it’s a win-win.
How Carnival is Attempting to Increase Efficiency
Drones and Robots
In addition to using computer models to create more efficient hull designs, Carnival is testing out the use of underwater drones and robots to inspect the condition of the hull.
The drones are equipped with cameras and check for things like barnacles and chipped paint. Robots are being tested to clean the ship below the water and clear any extra debris or coatings that can build up on the outside of a ship.
All of these things contribute to reducing drag, and with such a large surface area under the water, even small amounts of dirt on the hull can create the need for more thrust, and hence, more fuel.
The advantage of using a robot to clean the hull is that it can efficiently map out an area and get to work without hiring divers or using expensive equipment.
Carnival also points out that these robots can work quickly, aiming for “full hull cleaning during a single port visit and efficient cleaning without damaging protective hull coatings.”
Computer Software
Software is being used to run hundreds of simulations with various hull designs to find the most efficient form and shape.
Additionally, software is used to adjust the internal ballasts on the ship in a process called trim optimization.
Basically, trim optimization is like giving a cruise ship a perfect posture in the water, so it’s not dragging its bow or stern and wasting fuel.
Podded Propellers and Air Bubbles
According to Carnival, “Over 40 ships in the company’s fleet are fitted with high-efficiency, 360-degree steerable podded propulsion units.”
These unique propellers are about 7% more efficient than the conventional propellers of old, and every new ship will be equipped with them.
Carnival is also using a system called Air Lubrication Systems, or ALS. Basically, they’re pumping air underneath their ships to create a carpet of tiny bubbles. Think of it like an air hockey table, but for a massive cruise ship.
This bubble layer cuts down on the friction between the ship’s hull and the water, which means the ship can glide through the water easier. They’re saying it’s saving them at least 5% on fuel, which is a huge deal when you’re talking about ships this size. They’ve already got it on over 10% of their fleet, and they’re planning to add it to ten more ships in the next three years.
Carnival Sunshine in Nassau, Bahamas
Biofouling Paint
The paint itself makes a big difference on a cruise ship’s efficiency as well. Carnival said they are testing out a next-gen biofouling paint. Biofouling is the unwanted accumulation of organisms like plants and algae that can increase drag on a vessel.
The company stated that about 15% of the fleet is testing out some of these new coatings to evaluate durability and efficacy.
Commenting on the impact of these plans by Carnival, Lars Ljoen added:
“This has been a journey of small steps and years of continued collaboration to push the boundaries of innovation and drive solutions for greater efficiencies. It is safe to say that collectively these initiatives have contributed to significant improvements in fuel and energy efficiency over time. In essence, we are continuously reducing our environmental footprint at the same time we deliver the best vacation experience for our guests.”
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Just weeks after a French mayor called cruise ships “floating buildings” unwelcome in his popular cruise port city, local leaders are now seeking a compromise that will reverse at least part of this decision.
Mayor Christian Estrosi made waves in the cruise industry last month, when he announced an order banning large cruise ships from Nice, France. The order stated that any cruise vessel carrying more than 900 passengers would be prohibited from visiting the port city.
At the time, Estrosi stated, “The cruises that pollute and dump their low-cost clientele who consume nothing but leave their waste behind have no place with us.”
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) spearheaded the pushback against the ban, arguing that it would cause significant economic damage.
“We are urging reconsideration,” stated Samuel Maubanc, CLIA’s director general for Europe, emphasizing the need for a “holistic tourism management approach.”
It should be noted that the ban would not have restricted smaller boats and vessels from utilizing the port. However, the threat of lost tourism and the resulting economic pinch sent city leaders and officials into scramble mode.
After all, CLIA warned of potential losses exceeding $10 million locally and $600 million regionally.
The ban, which was set to take effect July 1st, would have severely impacted Villefranche-sur-Mer, a tender port heavily reliant on cruise ship traffic. Two-thirds of the nearly 90 scheduled calls there would have been affected, effectively excluding major cruise lines.
The Ban Reversal (of Sorts)
But the mayor of Nice is now attempting to backtrack, or at least modify the ban. According to news reports, on March 7th, Estrosi is expected to submit a new plan that will allow 65 ships carrying up to 2,500 passengers to utilize the nearby bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Smaller ships with fewer than 450 passengers will be able to use Nice’s port.
The port of Nice will still host approximately 125 cruise ships this year, with a dozen carrying over 125 passengers. Mayor Estrosi’s reversal of the ban came shortly after his meeting with Sea Shepherd’s Paul Watson, and ahead of the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice.
Other Mediterranean Ports Struggling with This Debate
Nice, a key Mediterranean cruise destination, is at the center of this debate, but it’s not the only city in the region to try to find the balance between tourism and preservation of culture and heritage. Venice, Barcelona, and Santorini have recently made their own attempts to restrict large ships or combat overtourism.
While some smaller ports just aren’t capable of hosting larger mega ships of today, it opens a market for smaller cruise ships to offer more intimate and remote destinations.
For now, Nice’s compromise makes room for at least some cruise passengers to appreciate an amazing destination.
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Holland America Line is elevating their fresh food offerings to have more selections on their cruise ships than ever before.
Holland America Line is building on their incredibly successful Global Fresh Fish program that offers more than 80 varieties of fresh fish.
Now, the cruise line is launching a new Made Fresh Daily program that will offer handcrafted breads, pastas and regionally inspired desserts.
Guests on Holland America Line ships can now enjoy an array of freshly made selections at all dining venues — from just-out-of-the-oven baguettes to perfectly prepared spaghetti.
In order to enhance the onboard options featuring fresh ingredients, Chef Ethan Stowell has curated an Italian-inspired menu of pasta dishes, along with a made-to-order pizza with freshly baked crust.
Guests looking to indulge in Chef Stowell’s fresh pasta in Lido Market can choose from the following options:
Tortiglioni with basil pesto, haricot vert and baby potatoes
Paccheri with spicy tomato, shrimp and parsley
Spaghetti with beef and ricotta meatballs, basil and tomato
Casarecce with beef short rib bolognaise
Basked conchiglie with mozzarella and tomato basil
In addition to handmade pasta and bread, Holland America Line also serves freshly made daily gelato, waffle cones, regionally inspired desserts and additional pastries.
This summer, the cruise line is also launching a signature bread: a flavorful sourdough raisin loaf with pumpkin seeds. The item will be available fleetwide in Pinnacle Grill every night and in the Dining Room on formal nights.
Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and rooms division for Holland America Line, gave the following statement:
“When bread or pasta is made fresh, you can certainly taste the difference, which is why we take a close look at our culinary program to assess what we can make on board from scratch as another way to bring our Destination Dining culinary platform to life. Chef Stowell’s new pasta and pizza are an exceptional addition to our ‘Made Fresh Daily’ menu items.”
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The promise of a serene and peaceful cruise through the beautiful Milford Sound of New Zealand turned into bumpy ride for passengers of the cruise ship Crown Princess on February 25, 2025.
What was meant to be a relaxing voyage to the South Seas was interrupted when strong wind gusts slammed into the 113,561 gross tonnage ship. These gusts caused a significant listing or tilt that made quite a mess, especially in the kitchen area.
Crown Princess
The Princess Cruises ship, carrying approximately 3,000 passengers, leaned slightly to one side for a brief amount of time, but it was enough to the attention of everyone on board. Initial reports say that the vessel tilted about 14 degrees.
The impact of the listing was immediately felt throughout the ship. Passengers reported a scene of chaos as furniture, including tables and chairs, slid across decks. Merchandise in the ship’s shops was sent flying, with perfume bottles and other items crashing to the floor.
Due to the tilt, the ship’s pool begam to overflow, pouring water all over the lido deck of the Grand-class vessel.
News footage and eyewitness accounts depicted a ship visibly leaning, with crew members scrambling to secure loose in the kitchen, as plates and large containers of food crashed onto the floor.
The sudden movement of the ship caused some concern, with passengers describing a bit of chaos as they struggled to keep their balance and figure out what was going on.
According to official reports, 13 passengers and 3 crew members sustained minor injuries during the incident. These injuries were mostly bumps and bruises, but a handful of more significant injuries were reported as well.
Princess Cruises confirmed the incident, stating that the ship experienced a brief but significant tilt beyond its normal range of motion.
“Crown Princess encountered strong winds during a course change, causing the ship to briefly tilt beyond its usual movement before stabilizing. Our crew responded quickly to correct the situation, and at no point was the safety of the ship compromised,” the cruise line stated.
“Additionally, a small amount of water from the Lido Deck pool briefly entered the Horizons food court, but the area was quickly cleaned and reopened. There was no structural damage to the ship.”
Despite the incident, Crown Princess continued its scheduled itinerary on its 14-day sailing. The next port visit for the ship will be in Tauranga, Russell, New Zealand on Sunday, and the ship is scheduled to return to Sydney, Australia on March 8, 2025.
New Zealand, Milford Sound
Many passengers can be seen in footage of the aftermath smiling, and resuming their onboard activities, sharing stories of their unexpected adventure.
While cruise ships are designed to handle even difficult conditions, they are not immune to the forces of nature. It’s worth noting that Milford Sound, despite its beauty, is frequently subject to sudden and severe weather shifts.
Some passengers on some of the lower decks reportedly did not even feel much of the impact of the winds at all, highlighting how much of a difference location on a ship can make in rough weather.
This is another reason we recommend sleeping in a lower mid-ship cabin if you are prone to seasickness.
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Looking for the cheapest possible cruise in 2026? I compiled a list of the lowest starting prices for inside cabins across seven major cruise lines, factoring in most fees, port taxes, and gratuities to give you a clearer picture of the cost.
Planning a cruise for 2026? This list might inspire you to find a great deal.
This list shows the single lowest priced cruise for four different sailing durations for each cruise line.
Think of this as your starting point, your roadmap to finding an affordable cruise.
Whether you’re after a quick three-day escape or a longer voyage, I’ve got the details. From Carnival to Disney, and everything in between, we’re laying out the budget-friendly possibilities.
Now, a crucial heads-up: these prices are snapshots in time. Cruise pricing is notoriously fluid. It’s like trying to catch a wave – it’s constantly changing.
So, while I did my best to provide the most accurate information available, the prices you see here might not be exactly the same when you go to book. Think of this as your first step towards planning an amazing cruise. It might even give you some inspiration. Just in compiling this information I found a few cruises that I’m considering booking already.
As a reminder, prices do include taxes and fees and are mostly for interior cabins.
Carnival Cruise Line: Cheapest cruises in 2026
Cheapest 3-4 day cruise:
Ship: Carnival Glory
Date and duration: 12/4/26, 3-day cruise
Itinerary: Port Canaveral, Celebration Key, Port Canaveral
The best cruise cabin hacks are simple: use the steel walls for magnetic hooks, store empty suitcases under the bed, add an over-the-door organizer, and charge devices with a USB charger that follows your cruise line’s electrical rules. Give every item a home on day one and do a quick reset each evening, and even a 150-square-foot inside cabin can feel calm for a whole week.
This guide is about living well in your stateroom for the entire trip, not just the first hour. If you want a checklist for the moment you open the door, see our first-hour cruise cabin hacks, and for what to put in your suitcase before you leave home, our cruise packing tips and hacks cover the essentials.
Why Cruise Cabin Hacks Matter on Longer Sailings
A standard cruise stateroom is small, often somewhere around 150 to 200 square feet for inside and ocean-view cabins, with balconies adding outdoor space rather than much indoor floor. On a three-night getaway, clutter barely has time to build up. On a seven- or ten-night sailing, though, wet swimsuits, shopping from port, formal outfits and charging cables all start competing for the same few surfaces.
The fix is not buying lots of gadgets. It is setting up a system that works with the room’s quirks: metal walls, limited outlets, a compact bathroom without much ventilation, and a cabin attendant who visits once or twice a day. The tips below are grouped by the problem they solve.
Cruise Stateroom Hacks for Storage and Space
1. Use the walls: magnetic hooks and clips
Most cabin walls, ceilings and doors are steel underneath their panels, so magnets stick firmly. A few strong magnetic hooks (look for ones rated at 10 pounds or more) give you places for hats, lanyards, beach bags and tomorrow’s outfit. Magnetic clips are handy for holding the daily planner, excursion tickets and dining reservations in plain sight.
One caution: some lines restrict what goes on the outside of your door. Norwegian Cruise Line, for example, lists door decorations of any type, including magnetic ones, as prohibited. Keep magnets inside the cabin unless your line’s rules say door decorations are fine.
2. Add an over-the-door organizer
A clear hanging shoe organizer over the bathroom or closet door turns dead space into 12 to 24 small pockets. Use it for sunscreen, sunglasses, medicines, chargers, hair ties and anything else that usually ends up scattered across the desk. Clear pockets mean you can see everything at a glance, which matters when you are rushing to make a tender time.
3. Unpack fully and store luggage under the bed
Living out of a suitcase wastes floor space and makes the room feel chaotic. Unpack completely, then slide empty cases under the bed. Many cases nest inside each other, and soft bags can hold things you won’t need until the last night, such as your travel outfit. Leave a little room so your attendant can still reach around the bed to make it.
4. Double your hanging space
Cabin closets are short on hangers and rail space. Ask your attendant for extra hangers, and bring a few slim, non-slip ones of your own. Cascading hanger hooks or small S-hooks let you hang several items vertically from one spot, which works well for shorts, jeans and lightweight dresses.
5. Ask what can be moved or changed
Most furniture is fixed in place, but cabin attendants can often split or join twin beds, remove extra pillows and blankets you won’t use, or fold away an unused sofa bed or upper berth during the day. On many ships they can also empty the minibar so you can use the fridge for your own drinks, medicine or snacks. It costs nothing to ask.
6. Create zones, not piles
This is the hack most lists skip. Before you unpack, decide where each category lives and stick to it for the whole trip:
Daily essentials: cruise card, phone, sunglasses and room key in one tray or magnetic basket by the door.
Beach and pool: towels, swimwear and sunscreen in one tote hung on a hook.
Evening wear: the closet only.
Dirty laundry: one collapsible bag or hamper, kept in the closet or bathroom.
Port purchases: a single drawer or bag so souvenirs don’t spread across every surface.
When everything has a home, the room stays tidy without effort and your attendant can clean more easily.
Small bathrooms work better when every item has its own spot. Photo: Max Vakhtbovych on Pexels
Cruise Cabin Organization in the Bathroom
7. Bring suction-cup storage for the shower
Magnets won’t work on tile, fiberglass or marble-effect shower walls. A suction-cup caddy or a couple of suction hooks gives you somewhere to keep shampoo, a razor and a loofah off the floor. Many ships already provide a pull-out clothesline in the shower, which is handy for drip-drying swimwear.
8. Use a hanging toiletry bag
A toiletry bag with a hook can hang from the towel rail or a door hook, which keeps the tiny sink counter clear. Divide items between travelers so each person has their own pocket or bag.
9. Deal with odors and humidity
Stateroom bathrooms are small and some have weak ventilation. An odor-neutralizing spray or a solid air freshener helps. Skip candles and incense; they are banned on major lines, including Norwegian, and are likely to be confiscated at embarkation. Some lines also restrict diffusers, so check before you pack one.
10. Add a motion-sensor night light
Inside cabins are completely dark at night. A small battery-powered, motion-activated light near the bathroom door lets you find your way without flipping on the bright overhead lights and waking anyone else.
Power and Tech: What Your Cruise Line Allows
Older ships may have only one or two outlets near the desk, which is not enough for a family’s phones, watches, cameras and CPAP machines. This is where rules matter most, because power strips and extension cords are treated as fire hazards and cruise lines do check bags. Here is how the major US lines handled it as of late 2026; always confirm on your line’s current prohibited-items page before sailing.
Item
Royal Caribbean
Carnival
Norwegian
Power strip with surge protection
Not allowed
Not allowed
Not recommended; check current list
Power strip or multi-plug outlet without surge protection
Not allowed (multi-plug outlets banned)
Allowed with caution; can be removed if judged hazardous
Check current list
Extension cords
Not allowed
Allowed without surge protection; damaged cords confiscated
Check current list
USB charging hub or USB-only charger
Allowed if it carries a recognized US or European safety marking
Allowed
Generally allowed
Clothing irons and steamers
Not allowed
Not allowed
Not allowed (heating elements banned)
11. Go USB-first
The simplest way to stay within every line’s rules is a compact multi-port USB charger (USB-C and USB-A) that plugs into a single outlet and has no extra AC sockets. One charger can power several phones and watches at once. Many newer ships also have USB ports beside the beds.
12. Pack a long charging cable
Outlets are usually at the desk, not the bed. A 6- to 10-foot cable lets you use your phone as an alarm or reading light from the bed without an extension cord.
13. Bring the right adapter
Most ships sailing from US ports have US-style 110-volt outlets, often alongside European 220-volt sockets. If your devices use a different plug, pack a single-outlet travel adapter. Royal Caribbean’s guidance treats a single AC outlet plus USB ports as acceptable, while multi-socket adapters are not.
14. Medical devices are different
If you use a CPAP or other medical equipment, contact your cruise line’s accessibility or special needs team before you sail. Lines can often arrange an extension cord or bedside outlet solution and may ask for advance notice.
A dark, quiet cabin makes sleeping at sea much easier. Photo: Ofir Eliav on Pexels
Cruise Cabin Tips for Sleep and Comfort
15. Control light and noise
Balcony cabins can be bright at sunrise if the blackout curtain doesn’t close fully. Magnetic clips or a couple of clothes pegs pinch the curtains together. Inside cabins have the opposite problem: no daylight at all. Many ships have a TV channel showing the bridge camera or a live view from the bow, which gives you a sense of time of day. A white-noise app or soft earplugs help in cabins near elevators or public areas.
16. Ask about bedding
Cabin attendants can often supply extra pillows, a different pillow type, a lighter blanket or, on some ships, a mattress topper. If the bed feels too firm on night one, ask early rather than putting up with it all week.
17. Manage temperature and airflow
Cabin thermostats usually only adjust within a narrow range. If you run warm, a small battery-operated fan is allowed by some lines; Norwegian’s list, for example, permits small electrical or battery-operated fans subject to inspection. Avoid opening the balcony door and the cabin door at the same time, which creates a strong wind tunnel and can slam doors.
18. Keep a water bottle and drinks system
Tap water on cruise ships is treated and safe to drink. A reusable bottle saves trips to the buffet. If you have a drinks package or bring permitted wine or soft drinks aboard, the emptied minibar fridge keeps everything cold.
Keeping the Cabin Livable All Week
19. Do a two-minute evening reset
Before dinner or before bed, put everything back in its zone: cards in the tray, chargers in the organizer, dirty clothes in the laundry bag, shopping in its drawer. Your attendant can then turn down the room properly, and you wake to a clear space.
20. Plan laundry midway
On a week-long cruise, a midweek laundry plan stops the closet from overflowing. Options include the ship’s laundry service (often with a fill-a-bag deal on certain days), self-service launderettes on some lines, or simple sink washing with travel detergent and the shower clothesline. Hanging laundry on the balcony is usually discouraged or not allowed, so keep it inside.
21. Dry wet swimwear and towels properly
Wet items left in a pile make a small room smell damp fast. Hang swimwear in the shower or on hooks, and return pool towels to the pool deck rather than drying them in the cabin.
22. Work with your cabin attendant
Let your attendant know your routine, such as late breakfast or an early excursion, so the room is serviced when you are out. Clear the desk and bed of clutter before you leave each morning so they can clean quickly and properly.
23. Choose a cabin that suits how you live
The cheapest hack is the one you make before booking. If you spend a lot of time in your room, extra space or a balcony may be worth the cost. Our guide to balcony vs inside cabins walks through the trade-offs.
If space is tight, our guide to the typical cruise ship bathroom covers what to expect and what to bring.
FAQs
Are cruise cabin walls magnetic?
Yes, on most ships the cabin walls, ceilings and doors are steel behind decorative panels, so magnetic hooks and clips hold well. Bathroom and shower walls are usually not magnetic, so use suction cups there.
Are cruise cabin doors magnetic?
Cabin doors are usually metal and magnetic. Whether you can decorate the outside depends on the line: some allow magnetic door decorations, while Norwegian Cruise Line prohibits door decorations of any type, including magnets.
Can I bring a power strip on a cruise?
It depends on the line. Royal Caribbean bans power strips, surge protectors, extension cords and multi-plug outlets but allows certified USB chargers. Carnival allows power strips and extension cords only without surge protection. A USB-only charger is the safest choice for any line.
How do I make a small cruise cabin feel bigger?
Unpack fully, store suitcases under the bed, use magnetic hooks and an over-the-door organizer for vertical storage, ask your attendant to put away unused beds or bedding, and do a quick tidy each evening so clutter never builds up.
Star Trek: The Cruise IX will set sail a Royal Caribbean cruise ship in 2026 and feature stars from the Original Series, William Shatner and Walter Koenig.
This Star Trek cruise is promising to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience as they celebrate the 60th anniversary of Star Trek: The Original Series.
Prices for the cruise start at $2,230 per person and includes admission to all performances, interviews, parties and meals. The cruise will take place on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas and depart from Port Canaveral on February 20, 2026.
The cruise will visit Puerto Plata, San Juan and CocoCay. It will also have three sea days.
The seven-day cruise will feature the following special events:
Interactive panels and Q&A sessions
One-of-a-kind nightly shows presented by Star Trek actors
Themed parties, cosplay events, and exclusive screenings
Opportunities to meet and mingle with the cast and crew
More than a dozen bars, restaurants, clubs and lounges redesigned to immerse fans in the ultimate Star Trek setting
Many former Star Trek actors will be on the cruise from the Original Series, The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine and Discovery. They are:
William Shatner (Kirk)
Walter Koenig (Chekov)
Special appearances by legendary actors who portrayed unforgettable characters like the Gorn, the Salt Vampire, and Captain Pike
Jonathan Frakes (Riker)
John de Lancie (Q)
Terry Farrell (Jadzia Dax)
Nana Visitor (Kira Nerys)
Sonequa Martin-Green (Michael Burnham)
Anthony Rapp (Paul Stamets)
Doug Jones (Saru)
Chris Hearing, Partner and Executive Director of Theme Cruises at Entertainment Cruise Productions, gave the following statement:
“We’ve planned a week of incredible once-in-a-lifetime experiences to honor the 60th anniversary of Star Trek. Celebrating this milestone with both William Shatner and Walter Koenig is a dream come true for fans.
“And we’re not stopping there: we’re creating events and activities that revel in the shows and films spanning the six decades that followed The Original Series. We are grateful to Paramount Consumer Products for giving us the opportunity to mark the anniversary year with the biggest fans in the universe.”
General bookings for the Star Trek: The Cruise IX open on March 6, 2025. However, the early bird sale is now live.
