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.

Asian river cruise comparison

Asian River Cruise Comparison: Mekong, Yangtze, Ganges, Brahmaputra or Red River?

european river cruise comparison guide

European River Cruise Comparison Guide: How To Choose the Right Cruise

european river cruise comparison guiide

Which European River Cruise Should You Choose?

viking cruise stateroom comparison

Viking Cruise Stateroom Comparison: Which Cabin Is Actually Worth It?

viking cruise dining review

Viking Cruise Dining Review: What It’s Really Like Onboard (Honest Experience)

cruise booked during the Iran war

Cruise Booked During the Iran War? What to Do Now About Cancellations, Refunds, Insurance and Rising Prices

best cruise lines for seniors

Best Cruises for Seniors (2026 Guide): River & Ocean Options for Comfortable Travel

best cruises from singapore to malaysia and thailand for seniors

Best Cruises from Singapore to Malaysia and Thailand for Seniors

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

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

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.