Norwegian Joy has won “Best Cruise Ship Hull Artwork” and received more votes than three other ships from different cruise lines.
That stunning artwork seen on Norwegian Joy, which is the newest cruise ship currently operated by Norwegian Cruise Line is now award-winning thanks to Cruise Hive readers in this year’s Cruise Ship Awards.
The 3,900-passenger Norwegian Joy was delivered from the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, in April 2017. This Breakaway-Plus class vessel and sister ship to Norwegian Escape has been purpose-built for the Chinese market, and its hull artwork complements that.
The design of the artwork is called “Phoenix” and it was visioned by renowned Chinese artist Tan Ping. Featured on the ship hull is an iconic mythical bird which is believed to reign supreme over all birds of the world and is used a lot throughout Chinese culture.
Best Cruise Ship Hull Artwork Results
Norwegian Joy was up against World Dream from Dream Cruises Asia, P&O Britannia from the UK-based P&O Cruises, and Aidaperla from German-based Aida Cruises. This group was very international with cruise lines across the world and not just focused on the U.S. based lines.
In second place came World Dream, it was a very distant second with no possibility of beating Norwegian Joy. World Dream is operated by Dream Cruises Asia and was built at the same shipyard as Norwegian Joy.
In third place for this year’s Cruise Ship Awards came P&O Britannia, the largest-ever cruise ship for the British cruise line. The vessel has the Union Jack on its hull, showcasing the country across the world.
Finally in last position came Aidaperla, a new cruise ship for Germany’s Aida Cruises. the ship and other ships in the fleet are well known for featuring those big red lips on the hull.
We received thousands of votes by Cruise Hive readers in this year’s Cruise Ship Awards. We would like to say thank you to everyone who voted. Readers were only allowed to vote once in each category and any repeat votes found were not counted. As an original cruise blog that started in 1998, the awards are a good way to give back and highlight what our readers liked best in 2017.
For the past two years, Norwegian Escape has dominated the “Best Cruise Ship Hull Artwork” category, and now, the sister ship Norwegian Joy has taken the crown.
Carnival Vista has won “Best Cruise Ship Feature” for the second year in a row and received more votes than five other cruise ship features.
The SkyRide feature, which was first introduced on Carnival Vista when it joined the fleet in Spring 2016, has won “Best Cruise Ship Feature” for the second time in the 2017 Cruise Ship Awards. SkyRide is an industry-first pedal riding feature that is located on the top deck of the Carnival Vista.
The feature is elevated above the deck and is 800 feet long, offering stunning ocean views. Guests can sit back and enjoy the view or race against each other up to 25 MPH. You can see some behind-the-scenes footage of SkyRide right here.
Best Cruise Ship Feature Results
SkyRide was up against five other cruise ship features and it was pretty close between the top three. The first ever Race Track at sea on Norwegian Cruise Lines Norwegian Joy came in second place. The Race Track is another industry first where guests can race in electric karts on the ship open deck.
In third place came The Ultimate Abyss slide which is 10-storeys high on Harmony of the Seas operated by Royal Caribbean. The slide starts from deck 16 aft and twists all the way down to the boardwalk Neighbourhood a lot further down below!
In fourth came Royal Caribbeans Quantum class RipCord by iFLY feature, located at the aft guests can try their skydiving techniques. Fifth place went to the 4D Cinema on MSC Divina which is based out of PortMiami. In last place with the least amount of votes was the Snow Grotto on Viking Sun.
Just because a feature got a low amount of votes doesn’t mean it isn’t good. In fact, all the cruise ship features are pretty impressive in their unique ways and we suggest trying them all out if possible!
We received thousands of votes in this year’s Cruise Ship Awards which is in its fourth year. Cruise Hive readers were only able to vote once in each category and any repeat votes from the same IP address were disregarded. The annual Cruise Ship Awards are different from most where we focus on the actual ships rather than the cruise lines. Voting opened up in September and ever since readers have been able to make a vote in the category they wanted.
We would like to congratulate the SkyRide feature on Carnival Vista. Readers would be happy to know that SkyRide is also coming to sister ship Carnival Horizon when it joins the fleet in Spring 2018.
Carnival Dream has come out on top for “Best Cruise Ship Refurbishment” in this year’s Cruise Ship Awards.
The Carnival cruise ship, which is the first in its class, has won “Best Cruise Ship Refurbishment” in the 2017 Cruise Ship Awards. Carnival Dream was up against three other ships from different cruise lines, including Norwegian Jade, Pacific Princess, and Queen Victoria.
Carnival Dream, which joined the Carnival Cruise Line fleet in 2009, dominated the group and received the most amount of votes from Cruise Hive readers. The Carnival cruise ship underwent a huge refurbishment at the Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport, Bahamas.
We featured plenty of photos from onboard the vessel during its major 2-week renovation in February 2017. The ship received the latest FUN 2.0 upgrades, including a new Guy’s Pig & Anchor Barbeque Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, Pizzeria del Capitano, and Bonsai Sushi.
Best Cruise Ship Refurbishment Results
So now we know Carnival Dream came out with the most amount of votes how about the other ships? In a very far second place came Norwegian Jade, which is operated by Norwegian Cruise Line; the vessel completed its dry dock at the end of March 2017.
In a close third place came Queen Victoria, a vessel operated by British-based Cunard Line. The Cunard ship’s major multi-million renovation was among the largest of the year. The ship was taken out of service in May 2017 while it was in dry dock at the shipyard in Hamburg, Germany.
Last in this year’s Cruise Ship Awards came Pacific Princess, which is operated by Princess Cruises. The ship underwent a major refurbishment, which lasted for two weeks. The dry dock was completed in June 2017, and the smaller cruise ship came out all new and ready for service with new enhancements.
Thousands of Cruise Hive readers voted in the annual 2017 Cruise Ship Awards which is now in its fourth year. Our readers were only able to vote once in each nomination category since we opened up the awards for voting in September 2017.
In 2016, Queen Mary 2, which is operated by Cunard Line, won “Best Cruise Refurbishment,” but this time around, the cruise line was outvoted with Carnival Dream getting more votes.
One of the most exciting journeys you’ll take together after walking down the aisle is your honeymoon.
This special vacation is a chance for you and your partner to adventure, relax, and celebrate your love one-on-one. It’s a time you want to experience in the most memorable way possible, and a honeymoon cruise allows you to do just that.
But, to fully enjoy your cruise, you have to do it right. Here are 8 tips to make sure you get the most of your time and money while honeymoon planning.
1. Choose A Cruise Destination You Both Will Love
Maybe you’ve been dreaming to go to Europe one day, but your partner would rather relax on the beach. Why not do a little bit of both with a Mediterranean cruise? This allows you to spend some stops exploring major EU cities and being beach bums at others. Another destination compromise can look like deciding where to go in the Caribbean.
There are over 30 cruise ports around these islands, which can make the decision process a little harder. Either way, remember your honeymoon cruise is about the time you spend together. The destination does matter, but in the end what you’ll remember most is the person you shared the journey with.
2. Go Big for Your Honeymoon or Go Home
After deciding your dates and destinations, it’s time to take a closer look at your booking details. Remember, this is your honeymoon cruise, not a weekend trip you’re taking on your college spring break.
Opt for a suite with all the right amenities instead of a cramped cabin with (maybe) a small balcony. Suites on a cruise almost make you forget you’re on a ship.
The extra space offers a cozy oasis, including oversized bathrooms, butler service, and plenty of perks throughout the cruise. Such benefits range from private dining areas to special show seating and priority embarking and disembarking.
3. Make a Cruise Ship Itinerary
As great as all the benefits of a special room are, they can be a little overwhelming once you’re onboard. In the midst of planning your “I do”s and bouquet arrangements, make the time to plan your honeymoon cruise itinerary.
This doesn’t have to be a list of strict time slots to follow every day. But, it should include all the things you and your partner definitely don’t want to miss out on. Planning helps you take the best advantage of your time away. It amps up the excitement while establishing a bit of focus as well.
Having an itinerary might even mean you catch special deals as you book must-do activities ahead of time.
4. Add Special Activities
Speaking of planning activities, try to splurge if you can. How often do you get to go ziplining through an exotic forest or wine tasting in Italy?
Think of the once-in-a-lifetime moments you want to create on your honeymoon cruise. This might include swimming with dolphins, rock climbing, or even skydiving.
The opportunities are endless when you take the time to research your choices before getting on the ship. Add a few stand-out activities to your itinerary and be sure to book right away.
5. Leave Time for Romance
Don’t forget to add some special time in between ports and planning. A honeymoon is all about celebrating your love up until this moment and starting a new chapter of growth together.
Consider scheduling a couples massage or private excursion to make everything more magical. Sometimes, though, a special moment can be as simple as quiet time together.
Get the most out of your spacious room and tell your butler you want to dine in. This allows you to enjoy a delicious meal in the privacy of each other’s company. No dressing up or entertaining others needed – the focus is all on you and yours.
6. Consider Special Packages
Another way to enjoy every aspect of your honeymoon cruise is to add special packages.
If you’re into boozy business, get an all-you-can-drink deal. If you want to take a day at sea to learn something new, sign up for an enrichment experience together.
Other packages include food specials, entertainment opportunities, and even fitnesses classes. There is sure to be something available you both will like, and you’ll definitely like the money-saving benefits of package-buying.
7. Register Your Honeymoon Cruise Trip
Not sure how you’re going to pay for all of these awesome ideas? Register your cruise! Better to spend your money on living than to buy things that will pile up in your new home.
You don’t need a full set of china as newlyweds, or multiple coffee makers, so keep your wedding registry short and simple.
A registry that is straight to the point helps guests decide what to get you. In fact, many will enjoy the convenience of donating to your cruise fund, especially if they can’t be there on the big day.
It’s a win-win for everyone – guests can add to your fund from far and wide, and you can enjoy the cruise you’re set on booking.
8. Take a Short Cruise Before Your Real Honeymoon
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Sometimes, booking a honeymoon cruise isn’t a money issue as much as it’s a time issue. Can’t get off work? Have other priorities popped up around your wedding date?
Take a long weekend to go on a mini honeymoon. Even if this is only for a few days, you can still pack in most of the tricks mentioned above.
This allows you to celebrate the ceremony while you wait to take the real honeymoon. It makes everything feel just as special, and you end up getting two incredible vacations instead of one!
Packing for Your Honeymoon Cruise
Are you already dreaming of tropical beaches or ancient city streets? There’s one more thing you need to do after you book your dates and deals: pack!
If this is your first cruise or your first vacation as a couple, there are a few things you should know. Luckily, we have all the advice you need in one place. Click here to discover the best packing tips for cruises.
With amazing natural wonders to explore, convenient shopping for souvenirs, rich regional tastes to sample and local history and culture to discover, visiting exotic ports of call can be the highlight of any cruise vacation.
A port can quickly become a bad experience, however, when visitors feel continually harassed by retailers, cab drivers, hair braiders, carriage owners, independent tour operators and other merchants. Fortunately, there are easy steps you can take to minimize uncomfortable interactions without missing out on the memorable experiences to be found at every port of call.
Tours offered through the cruise line are investigated as safe and enjoyable for guests. While there may still be some sales pressure when visiting shopping areas, these tours generally stay away from the harshest, least reputable market areas where harassment is more rampant. Since the tour is escorted, passengers will have a designated leader to turn to immediately if they feel uncomfortable with individual harassment incidents.
Avoid Obvious Tourist Attire
If you look like a tourist when you visit a port of call, you’ll be an easier target for aggressive merchants. Avoid wearing cruise line gear or brand new shirts from ports of call, as well as bright tropical shirts or other obvious vacation attire. Keep your cruise ship identification card tucked into a purse or pocket rather than dangling from a visible lanyard.
Instead of toting along extra bottles of sunscreen, a large camera, multiple beach towels and other gear, consider carrying a smaller, more discreet purse rather than a jumbo-sized bag packed with tourist paraphernalia.
Be Firm But Polite
When you are approached by a retailer or salesperson, say “No, thank you” firmly but with a genuine smile, remembering that the vendor is only trying to make a sale for their business and paycheck. Shaking your head can also help convey your answer politely, even when there may be language differences or accents can make it difficult for you to understand a sales offer.
Move Along
Avoid lingering at stores and sales booths if you aren’t genuinely interested in making a purchase. The longer you look at the same merchandise, the more you invite additional pressure for a sale. Instead, browse while strolling along the main walkways, and only turn into a single booth if you find something you are very interested in buying.
Stick to Larger Stores
Larger, more firmly established stores in a central shopping district often have less aggressive salespeople. Smaller, independently operated booths and sales wagons, on the other hand, can be much pushier toward tourists, including cruise ship passengers.
Most cruise ships provide shopping maps and recommended stores, and confining your shopping to those well-regarded shops and other large stores in the same area can be a more pleasant experience.
Photo By: Russell Otway (For Cruise Hive Only)
Stay in a Group
Salespeople are generally more aggressive when they can approach a potential customer individually, and they are less likely to interrupt a group. The larger the group the better, as it is still easy to interrupt a couple or a very small group, but if there are 5-6 people or more in the shopping group, it will be much more difficult for a retailer to interrupt.
Stay Alert at All Times
Avoid any behavior that can take your attention away from your surroundings and make you more vulnerable to pushy salespeople. This includes overindulgent drinking or eating too much, as well as staying so active that you are excessively tired or sore.
These conditions can fray your nerves and make you more sensitive to an aggressive interaction, turning a simple sales inquiry into a more disturbing and upsetting encounter.
If you feel threatened or an aggressive salesperson makes you uncomfortable even after you ask them to stop – if they touch or restrain you, use vulgar language, etc. – don’t hesitate to report them to the proper authorities.
If there are no local police or other security personnel nearby, take note of the store or merchant and make your report when you return to the ship.
These experiences will help the cruise line adjust their recommendations and communicate with port authorities to be sure travelers always feel welcome and safe in ports of call. You can speak with the shore tours or guest services desk, or add your experience to a survey after your cruise has ended.
Stay on the Ship
One of the best ways to avoid any harassment in port is to avoid going into the port and instead stay on the ship. This is a great approach if you’ve visited the port before, if there are no tours that interest you or if you’d just rather enjoy the ship when more people are off exploring and the public areas – pools, spa, miniature golf course, etc. – are less crowded.
While there may be fewer shipboard activities planned on port days, there is always something going on to enjoy if you prefer not to get off the ship.
Always Remember – You Are the Guest!
Most importantly, when you are visiting a port of call, always remember that you’re a guest in a foreign country, a completely different nation with a different culture and different standards of behavior.
What may seem aggressive to you could be perfectly acceptable for local culture, and it is best to always stay polite and respectful, no matter what the situation. Be a kind, well-mannered representative of visiting tourists, and you’ll have pleasant interactions with everyone you meet on a cruise, no matter what ports you visit.
For many passengers, a day at sea is the best day of a cruise vacation, with an entire ship to explore and no rush to join a shore tour or make the most of a few limited hours in a port of call.
On a Carnival cruise, these “Fun Days at Sea” are packed with great activities and plenty of things to do. But when it is the last sea day of a Carnival cruise, what should you make sure to do so you aren’t missing any of the great on board opportunities?
Sea Day Timing
Exactly what you ought to do on a sea day will depend on when that last sea day may be during your cruise. On 3- and 4- night cruises, there is usually only one Fun Day at Sea, and it may be the very first day or the last day of the cruise.
On longer itineraries, there may be multiple sea days, and the last of those days could be early, late, or even in mid-cruise depending on the ports of call. You can check the itinerary of your ship on Carnival.com, or once you are on board, ask at the Guest Services desk for a complete itinerary.
Occasionally, an itinerary’s order may be changed and sea days could be shifted to accommodate weather patterns, port capacities, or ship limitations, but even if the day itself is changed, the sea day activities, options, and fun will still be part of the daily schedule.
Top 10 Things to Do on Your Last Carnival Cruise Sea Day
No matter when your sea day is scheduled, there are many great options you ought to take advantage of…
1. Sleep In or Take a Snooze
You’ll want to rest up for all the fun on a sea day, and sleeping in can help you do just that. There’s no need to rush to join a shore tour, catch an early tender boat, or quickly get involved, as most shipboard activities don’t start until after 9 a.m.
If you are a naturally early riser and don’t want to miss a minute, you could visit the gym or join an early workout or stretch class, or just head to the Lido deck for an early riser’s breakfast. You can always take a nap later in the day to recharge!
Photo By: Melissa Mayntz
2. Taste the Sea Day Brunch
For a more unique dining experience, the last sea day is your last opportunity to take advantage of Carnival’s Sea Day Brunch. Held in the main dining room with open seating, this is a delicious option to fuel up for your Fun Day at Sea.
Photo By: Russell Otway
The menu includes options not found at the Lido buffet breakfast, and you can also order omelettes, steak-n-eggs, grilled salmon, and other decadent entrees, not to mention desserts and morning cocktails.
3. Test Your Skills at Mini Golf and Other Athletic Fun
While it may be a bit busier because no one is off the ship, the miniature golf course is usually open longer hours on a sea day, giving you plenty of time to show off your putting skills.
If you prefer other options, all of Carnival’s athletic fun, including the SkyCourse, SkyRide, basketball court, and ping pong tables (options vary by ship) are available for your sea day fun, typically also with longer hours to accommodate everyone on board.
4. Shop ‘Til You Drop
With the Fun Shops open all day, there will be plenty of great sales to take advantage of during your last sea day.
Photo By: Russell Otway
The exact promotions may vary, but t-shirt sales, $10 flash sales, glassware sales, inch-of-gold custom necklace and bracelet sales, as well as great deals on Bella Perlina bracelets and other luxury jewelry and watches are always popular. The selection is best right when the sales begin, so don’t delay or you may not find the sizes or styles you prefer.
5. Win Your Ship on a Stick
The 24-karat-gold-ship-on-a-stick is Carnival’s ultimate souvenir, and the best way to get one is to win one of the many different games on board.
Photo By: Melissa Mayntz
Join in a trivia contest, get a team together for giant Jenga, participate in a scavenger hunt, grab a pen for Pictionary, stretch your brain for Scattergories, or try any of the other fun and games throughout the day. When the ship is in port there will be fewer chances to win and these souvenirs may slip through your fingers.
6. Slip Down the Waterslide
It’s going to get hot on deck during a sunny day at sea, and there’s no better time to take your turn on the Twister Waterslide or visit WaterWorks for multiple slides, fountains, and splish-splashy fun. Minimum height requirements apply for the larger slides, but there is plenty of aquatic fun even for younger cruisers.
Photo By: Russell Otway
If you prefer more sedate water-going options, don’t miss the pools or whirlpools on board as great ways to get wet.
7. Be Proud of Your Pelt at the Hairy Chest Contest
The famous Hairy Chest Contest is always a sea day favorite and is usually scheduled for the early afternoon of the last sea day. It’s more about attitude than hair, and brave men willing to show off their manliness will complete in several tasks to win the honor of Hairy Chest Champion.
But ladies join in as well, as the all-female judging panel will determine just how worthy each competitor is. This event is always popular – get your lounge chairs or viewing spot by the Lido pool early so you don’t miss out.
8. Grab a Crazy Delicious Lunch
Your last day at sea may be your last opportunity to enjoy the delicious lunch offerings on board. You can always stick with the Lido buffet, deli, or pizza, but why not indulge in one more burger from Guy’s Burger Joint, or try a taco or burrito with fresh homemade salsa from the BlueIguana Cantina?
Photo By: Carnival Cruise Line
For a smoky favorite, visit Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, and don’t forget to top off your lunch with soft serve ice cream or frozen yogurt from Swirls.
9. Indulge in the Chocolate Extravaganza
Even while you’re enjoying lunch, save room for Carnival’s Chocolate Extravaganza – an all-chocolate, unlimited dessert buffet on the last sea day.
A wide variety of chocolate delights await you, including cakes, handmade ice cream swans, sugared almonds, chocolate dipped orange peel, rum truffles, chocolate mousse, rice pudding, cookies, and more, as well as a luxurious chocolate fountain. From white to milk to dark, all your chocolate fantasies will be fulfilled at this delicious event.
Photo By: Melissa Mayntz
10. Go Behind the Fun
One of the best experiences you can have on your last sea day on a Carnival cruise is to join the Behind the Fun tour. This tour is limited to just a few passengers who sign up early, and takes this select group into crew areas as well as other restricted areas of the ship, including the galley, theater prep area, laundry services, engine room, and of course, the bridge.
The exact length of the tour, areas visited, and per-passenger cost vary based on the ship class, and while cameras are not permitted for security reasons, complimentary photos are part of the tour as well as exclusive treats and souvenirs.
More to Do on an Early Sea Day
While there are plenty of great things to try no matter when your last sea day is scheduled, if the day at sea is early in the cruise, you may also want to take care of some other tasks.
Get acquainted with your ship, make dining reservations for any specialty restaurants, book spa treatments, buy a drink package, and take care of other beginning-cruise tasks to be sure your Carnival cruise vacation is smooth sailing.
More to Do on a Late Sea Day
When a final day at sea is actually the last day of the cruise, it can be a good time to take care of several essential tasks to be sure your debarkation morning is smooth and efficient.
Attend the debarkation talk or watch it on your in-cabin television, and settle your Sail and Sign account if you have a cash balance. Now is also the time to cash out at the casino, and offer extra tips to any crew members who have made your experience extraordinary.
Don’t forget to stop by the photo gallery to purchase any keepsake photos as well, since they may not be available the next morning.
Any day at sea is a great time on a Carnival cruise, with a wide array of activities and events on board. Don’t miss out, and make the most of your Fun Day at Sea by getting involved – it’s your cruise, make it a fun one!
Portholes are the ultimate in classic ship viewports, but is the view good enough for you to consider a cruise ship porthole cabin for your next cruise vacation? Learn just how different these cabins can be and discover if one is right for you and your cruise preferences.
What Is a Cruise Ship Porthole Cabin?
Portholes go by many names, including bull’s-eye windows and sidescuttles, but their historic purpose has always been the same – to allow natural light and fresh air into below deck spaces. That wasn’t portholes’ original purpose, however.
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The first portholes originated in the late 1400s to allow larger cannons to be part of a ship’s armament, and because the cannons were too large to be safely anchored on deck, holes had to be cut into the hull to accommodate the cannons.
Portholes are generally circular, with glass mounted in a metal frame. Brass and bronze frames are preferred because they are more resistant to saltwater corrosion, but steel, iron and aluminum frames can also be used for portholes. A solid storm cover is typically mounted on the interior of the porthole to allow it to be tightly closed in case of rough seas or to block light.
Today, portholes are largely ornamental or nostalgic. With sophisticated venting systems, electric lighting, air conditioning and on-board generators, it is no longer necessary to have these holes in the hull for light and air, and they certainly aren’t needed for either offensive or defensive purposes on cruise ships.
But they can be great accents that not only provide natural light in cabins but also evoke that sense of true shipboard life with their whimsical nostalgia.
Older, smaller vessels often have a greater number of porthole cabins available, though newer, more modern ships often incorporate porthole-like features with larger, round oceanview windows or even digital screens that mimic portholes, even providing exterior views, in interior cabins. While these aren’t true portholes, they can still be fun accents in a cruise ship cabin.
Inside a Porthole Cruise Ship Cabin
Depending on the cruise line and the types of cabins available on any particular ship, a cruise ship porthole cabin might be classified as a type of oceanview cabin or may have their own porthole category designation.
Some lines even classify porthole cabins as a type of interior cabin, though they do still offer a limited outdoor view.
Generally, these cabins are located on lower decks closer to the waterline, and typically are the furthest forward on the ship, closest to the bow. Because this is at the point where the ship’s hull is bending or curving, these cabins may have slightly smaller floor space, though the square footage differences are minimal when compared to similar interior or oceanview cabins.
All Photos By: Melissa Mayntz
The portholes themselves – there may be one or two in a single cabin – are deeply recessed in the ship’s hull, often within a substantial cubby or shelf. While this is not floorspace for the cabin, it can be a convenient place to store clothing, shoes, beach towels, extra pillows, towel pal friends and other items, freeing up additional space so the cabin seems less cluttered.
The size of the portholes can vary, but they are generally 12-20 inches in diameter per porthole. While this may seem large, because these openings are deeply set into the ship’s hull, the view they offer is extremely limited.
It is enough, however, to admit plenty of natural light, and to see glimpses of the weather and sea conditions. Passengers who are accustomed to the brighter light of full oceanview cabins or balcony cabins may find porthole cabins to be slightly dimmer, which could make the cabin seem smaller or more cramped.
Passengers who prefer a darker sleeping space, however, will likely appreciate the smaller window area, as well as the storm covers that can be closed if total darkness is desired.
A curtain is typically hung across the recessed space as well, which can provide extra shielding from excess light and keep the space hidden so any storage clutter is concealed.
Because these cabins are lower and more forward on the ship, many noises – most notably the crashing of waves against the ship’s bow, as well as the motions of anchors, pilots or tugs – are more noticeable in a cruise ship porthole cabin.
These cabins are also more subject to the motion of the ship as well, including swells and dips. Travelers who are very sensitive to the ship’s motion or who are very light sleepers may want to reconsider opting for a porthole cabin, though in calm seas, these differences are negligible and hardly noticeable.
One of the best features of porthole cabins is the price. Because these are not full oceanview cabins, they are often offered at a significantly lower fare than cabins with broad windows, yet porthole cabins do still offer plenty of natural light.
This can be a great option for cruisers on a budget to still enjoy natural light without a higher price tag.
Despite the differences in porthole cabins, it is important to remember that these cabins are still on the same cruise ship as all other cabin types.
They still include the same cruise amenities, entertainment, dining, activities, itinerary and all the other goodies of the cruise, and passengers in every cabin type have the same opportunities for a great getaway. Why not try a cruise ship porthole cabin for your next cruise?
Cruises can be a great way to show your children different parts of the world in one vacation. You want to have the holiday of a lifetime with your family. Yet, a lack of planning can turn the dream vacation into a nightmare. To ensure they make wonderful childhood memories, here are 7 tips for going on cruises with kids.
1. Pick the Best Cruises with Kids
There is a big difference between a child-friendly and child-tolerant cruise line. If you want to go on cruises with kids, we recommend selecting a kid-friendly cruise line. The cruise line you pick will most likely depend on your child’s age and interests. That’s why you should research the on-board entertainment options.
Also, check if there any age requirements for all shore excursions. Most cruise lines provide excursion search tools on their website for age limits.
2. Select a Cruise with Several Dining Options
Let’s face it, kids are pretty fussy when it comes to food. Review the dining options and restaurants before you book. If they don’t offer the familiar foods your kids love, it might be best to book a different cruise. The last thing you want is to go on cruises with kids who won’t eat a thing.
3. Check the Minimum Age Requirement
Most cruise lines have a minimum age requirement. Many will not allow children younger than 6 months or 1 year to travel onboard. This will more than likely depend on the cruise line and itinerary. Read the terms and conditions before you book.
4. Book the Best Room
You’ll want to bathe your child during the cruise. Unfortunately, most standard cruise cabins often don’t feature bathtubs. If you’re unhappy for them to have a shower, you may need to upgrade a cabin to a higher category room.
Unless you’re traveling on a Disney liner, as they feature family staterooms. This will include tub and shower combinations and will sleep three to five guests.
5. Beware of the Balcony
When going on cruises with children, it’s important to consider if it’s safe to book a balcony cabin. If you do, you must ensure your children are always supervised on the balcony. Fortunately, most cabin balconies feature plexiglass, so have no bars with gaps. The Cruise Vessel Safety and Security Act (2010) also requires the railings to be 42 inches tall.
6. Don’t Forget the Essentials
If you’re traveling with a baby, don’t forget to pack enough diapers, wipes, formula and baby food. Most cruise lines will not carry these items. If they do, you can trust they’ll be more expensive on board the liner. If you will need a crib, it’s essential to request one as soon as you have booked a cruise. Many ships have a limited supply, so act soon to avoid disappointment.
You should also take a baby carrier or stroller with you. Most cruise lines either don’t carry them or have a limited supply.
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7. Use the Kids’ Clubs
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Both you and your children will love the on board kids’ clubs. Not only does it allow your child to make friends, but it gives Mom and Dad some much-needed relaxation time. The likes of Disney, Carnival and Royal Caribbean have some superb youth programs. These clubs often range from ages 2 all the way up to 17.
From karaoke and pool games to dance parties and crafts, there’s something for every child. What’s more, they’re free. Are you hoping to go on cruises with kids? Check the prices for the best cruises below.
You always hope for good vacation weather – clear skies, moderate temperatures, gentle breezes, and certainly no rain in the forecast. Unfortunately, Mother Nature may not always cooperate and you could have all sorts of poor weather on a cruise, from gale force winds and choppy seas to dense fog, chilly temperatures, and pouring rain. Bad weather doesn’t have to spoil your getaway, however, and there are plenty of great things to do onboard even in the worst weather.
How Bad Weather Can Affect a Cruise
Cruise ships are built to withstand typical weather with ease, including the occasional storm or other bad weather. Likewise, cruise itineraries are planned to take advantage of the best weather seasons with minimal disruptions. Still, bad weather can impact a cruise in several ways.
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A simple rainy day may close pools and hot tubs or cancel outdoor activities or shore tours, or rough seas may mean certain shows are not safe for entertainers to perform and will have to be rescheduled. In very poor weather, the ship may need to be rerouted, and arrivals and departures at ports of call may be delayed, changed, or even canceled in extreme cases.
When extreme adjustments are made to a ship’s itinerary, cruise passengers are often offered onboard credit or refunds, but those compensations are not required and should not be expected or demanded. At the same time, cruise lines will make every effort to offer substitute activities and more events that can be enjoyed regardless of the weather.
Enjoying Your Cruise When Bad Weather Strikes
It can be disappointing when bad weather changes the activities or destinations you’d hoped to enjoy on your cruise, but there is still plenty to do.
Most indoor activities will be unaffected by inclement weather, including trivia contests, karaoke, cooking demonstrations, Bingo games, art auctions, craft projects, comedy shows, slot tournaments, scavenger hunts, and more.
You can also take advantage of the ship’s indoor facilities, such as the gym, spa, arcade, and shopping mall, all of which may have different presentations, lectures, and sales going on no matter what the weather. Larger, more elaborate ships often have even more unusual options, such as ice rinks, bowling alleys, movie theaters, or planetariums.
If none of the scheduled options appeal to you on a rainy day, you can enjoy a slower pace by indulging in your own entertainment onboard. Most cruise ships offer several in-cabin movie options and you can order room service for a cozy snack.
You could visit the ship’s library and see what reading material is available, and many libraries offer board games and puzzles for passengers to use.
If you’re a bit hungry, you might enjoy taking the time to try out the taco bar, sushi station, gourmet pizza, ice cream sundaes, deli sandwiches, or other great food choices available. Wash it down with a festive drink of the day or sample a new type of cocktail, wine, or beer you’ve been interested in trying.
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All the while, listen for ongoing announcements about the ship’s schedule and any itinerary changes or adjustments. Cruise ships have access to state-of-the-art weather tracking equipment and detailed weather reports, and as the weather changes the ship’s officers have the discretion to adjust their route and plans to compensate as needed.
At the same time, the cruise director or other members of the entertainment staff will make announcements about new activities and other fun onboard so you don’t have to miss out on a thing.
A Note About Seasickness
When the weather turns bad during a cruise, seasickness can always be a concern. Be sure you take appropriate steps to control nausea if you are susceptible to seasickness, such as avoiding excessive alcohol or greasy or spicy food that may upset your stomach further. Avoid rambunctious activities and slow your pace down a bit.
It might be worth buying seasickness wristbands for your cruise right here.
Consider home remedies to lessen seasickness, such as a taste of peppermint or some ginger ale, and your stomach won’t be nearly as concerned with the bad weather as you are.
Bad weather does not have to ruin your cruise if you don’t let it. While poor weather can make your cruise different from what you’d expected, embracing those changes and enjoying the available activities can ensure you still have a great time even on a stormy sailing.
