Planning A Cruise

Plan your cruise with simple, practical tips: choose the right ship and itinerary, compare cabins and dining options, and set a realistic budget for gratuities, Wi‑Fi, and excursions. Learn the best time to sail, packing essentials, and seasickness remedies. Understand visas, travel insurance, and embarkation steps so boarding day feels smooth and stress‑free.

Uniworld River Cruise Guide

Uniworld River Cruise Guide: Ships, Cabins, Routes and What to Check

Scenic vs Avalon river cruise

Scenic vs Avalon River Cruise: Luxury, Value and the Better Choice

Scenic River Cruise Guide

Scenic River Cruise Guide: Ships, Cabins, Routes and Who It Suits

European River Cruise Complaints

European River Cruise Complaints: What Disappointed Guests Wish They Knew

European river cruise lines ranked

European River Cruise Lines Ranked: Best and Worst Choices for 2026

Viking versus AmaWaterways European river cruise comparison

Viking vs AmaWaterways: Which European River Cruise Is Better for You?

best alaska cruise lines for seniors

Best Alaska Cruise Lines for Seniors: Big Ships, Small Ships and Expedition Cruises Compared

Alaska cruises for seniors

Alaska Cruises for Seniors: Routes, Glaciers, Wildlife and Ports Compared

SAVE BIG AND EXPLORE MORE OF THE WORLD
Planning a cruise

Hello from Rob & Nawa!

After years of exploring the world, we’ve traded dorms and campsites for comfort—without the high price tag.

We share practical tips to help mature travellers see more and spend less, whether you’re cruising or travelling by land.

Join our list for our best travel advice and free access to our Research Library.

How We Calculate Our Rating

Our score is out of 10 and based on:

Location & convenience – 30%

Room Quality & cleanliness – 30%

Facilities & services – 25%

Dining – 15% 

We do not take price (value for money) into our calculations, as rates can differ substantially depending on when you go. If you travel in peak season, then expect to pay the highest rates, but it does not (or should not) change the quality of the hotel. If we give it a rating of 8.0 or higher, we would consider staying again.
TBA – means we have not stayed at this hotel but have booked for a future visit or included in our research as a suggested place to stay

Booking

Get Our Free Travel Budget Planner

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Booking

Get Our Free Cruise Budget Planner

We’ll send you a direct link to our Google Sheets Cruise Budget Planner. Easy to use for multiple cruises.

Independent Cruise Research

Free Research Library

Get free access to our cruise comparison spreadsheets, including fares, inclusions and the research sources behind our videos.