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As an early riser, you’re probably no stranger to waking up before the sun rises, but even you might be surprised by the number of ways you can make your mornings at sea genuinely unforgettable. Here are seven ways to make the most of your morning on a cruise

Start Your Day with a Sunrise Yoga Class

Kickstart your morning with a sunrise yoga class on the Lido Deck for a refreshing and invigorating start to your day. Take in the spectacular ocean views and enjoy a serene moment of zen as you stretch and strengthen your body.

Indulge in a Gourmet Breakfast

Upgrade your morning meal with a gourmet breakfast at one of the cruise ship’s elaborate buffets or sit-down restaurants. From eggs benedict to waffles, savor a delicious spread that will make your taste buds dance with delight.

Take Advantage of Spa Specials

Pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment at discounted rates for early risers. Whether it’s a soothing massage, rejuvenating facial, or other indulgent services, set the tone for a blissful day at sea with some well-deserved R&R.

Explore the Ship

Embark on a tour of the cruise ship to uncover hidden gems and unique spaces like secret bars, secluded pools, or even a virtual reality room. Take advantage of the peaceful morning hours to discover your favorite spots before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.

Take Advantage of Lectures and Workshops

Engage in enriching learning experiences through morning lectures on various topics or hands-on workshops like art classes or craft sessions. Expand your knowledge and creativity while onboard and create lasting memories of your cruise vacation.

Enjoy the peace

Embrace the morning’s tranquility on a cruise by taking a stroll, reading a book, or simply soaking in the serene ambiance from your balcony. Amidst the peaceful surroundings, you can recharge your spirits and set a relaxing tone for the day ahead.

Grab a Coffee (or Two)

Fuel up for the day ahead with freshly brewed coffee from the early morning coffee buffets. Explore a variety of specialty blends and enjoy the comforting aroma and taste of your favorite caffeinated beverage as you begin your cruise day on a cozy and energizing note.

Whether you’re seeking tranquility, adventure, or a touch of indulgence, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as you soak up the beauty and serenity of the open sea. Share your favorite morning cruise experiences in the comments below!

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In this blog, we will weigh the pros and cons of booking shore excursions and offer tips to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Shore Excursions

Experience the local culture: Shore excursions are a great way to learn about the culture and history of each port. You’ll visit famous landmarks, try new foods, and interact with locals.

Unique experiences: Shore excursions often offer unique experiences you won’t find alone. For example, you might take a cooking class, go snorkeling, or take a scenic hike.

Convenience: Booking a shore excursion through your cruise line or a reputable tour operator means that transportation and logistics are taken care of for you.

Cost-effective: While shore excursions seem expensive upfront, they can be cost-effective in the long run. You won’t have to worry about transportation, food, or navigating unfamiliar areas.

Cons of Shore Excursions

Cost: Shore excursions can be pricey, especially if you’re booking multiple excursions throughout your cruise.

Time constraints: Shore excursions often have limited hours, which can be frustrating if you want to explore independently.

Crowds: Popular shore excursions can be crowded, detracting from your overall experience.

Quality control: Not all shore excursions are created equal. Research and read reviews before booking to ensure a high-quality experience.

Tips for Booking Shore Excursions

Research ahead of time: Research each port and its attractions to determine which excursions are worth your time and money.

Read reviews: Check out reviews from other travelers to get a sense of what to expect from each excursion.

Book early: Book your excursions as soon as possible to ensure availability and get the best prices.

Consider alternative options: Don’t feel pressured to book an excursion through your cruise line. Consider exploring alone or booking a private tour with a local operator.

Be flexible: Be prepared for changes in your itinerary or excursion schedules due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Shore excursions are worth it, depending on your preferences and priorities. If you value cultural experiences, unique activities, and convenience, they might be a great fit. However, if you want flexibility and freedom to explore independently, consider alternative options such as self-guided tours or private excursions with local operators.

Research, read reviews, and book early to ensure a positive experience. Most importantly, don’t feel pressured to book every excursion available—prioritize the ones that align with your interests and budget.

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Convenience: One of the biggest draws of weekend cruises is their convenience. With departures from various ports, you can easily reach your destination without worrying about transportation or accommodations. Arrive at the port, board the ship, and set sail!

Relaxation: Weekend cruises offer the perfect opportunity to unwind and relax. With on-board amenities like spas, pools, and entertainment options, you can leave your worries behind and indulge in some much-needed self-care.

Variety: Cruise ships now offer an incredible range of activities, from fitness classes to wine tastings to live entertainment. Whether you’re looking for adventure or want to try something new, there’s something for everyone on board.

Food and Drink: No need to worry about cooking or dining out – on a cruise, you’ll have access to a range of delicious meal options, from fine dining to casual buffets. And don’t forget the bar – with craft cocktails and wine available 24/7, you’ll never go thirsty!

Social Benefits: Weekend cruises are a great way to socialize with friends or family. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or want quality time together, a cruise provides the perfect setting for bonding and making memories.

Escape from Routine: Let’s face it – daily life can be monotonous at times. A weekend cruise offers a chance to break free from the routine and experience something new and exciting.

Value for Money: It’s hard to beat the value when considering the cost of a weekend cruise compared to other vacations. With all-inclusive pricing and amenities like meals and activities included, you’ll feel like you’re getting a steal!

With their convenience, relaxation options, variety of activities, delicious food and drink, social benefits, escape from routine, and value for money, it’s no wonder why weekend cruises are so popular. Whether you’re looking for a quick break from daily life or a chance to create lasting memories with loved ones, a weekend cruise is the perfect choice.

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1. Not packing strategically

Don’t wait until the last minute to pack. Packing too late can lead to forgotten essentials, last-minute stress, and a rushed and chaotic disembarkation. Pack a day before or the night before disembarkation day to avoid these issues. This will ensure you have everything you need and allow you to deal with any last-minute items without feeling rushed or stressed.

2. Forgetting essential documents

Double-check that you have all necessary documents, including your passport, visa (if required), and cruise documents. You don’t want to risk missing your flight or experiencing delays due to lost or misplaced papers.

3. Not checking out of your stateroom

Take the time to double-check that you’ve turned off all electronics, locked your cabin door, and removed any personal items from public areas before disembarking.

4. Not planning for customs

Familiarize yourself with customs regulations for your destination country and complete any required forms before disembarking. Failure to comply may result in fines or even denied entry.

5. Getting caught in the rush

Avoid getting caught up in the stampede of passengers rushing to disembark at the same time. Plan and follow the recommended disembarkation schedule, or take advantage of early disembarkation options (if available) to minimize congestion and stress.

6. Not leaving tips and gratuities

Show appreciation for your exceptional crew members by leaving tips and gratuities as per your cruise contract. It’s a small price to pay for exceptional service!

7. Not having a plan for transportation

Research transportation options from the port back to your home or next destination, and have a plan to ensure a smooth transition.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth disembarkation process and a stress-free transition back to land life. Happy sailing!

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Here are seven practical tips to help you manage your time effectively at port:

1. Create a Port Day Timeline

Take a few minutes to plan out your day, including arrival times, transportation to and from the ship, and scheduled activities. This will help you stay on track and avoid last-minute scrambles.

2. Familiarize Yourself with the Port Area

Before disembarking, take some time to study maps and research local transportation options. This will help you navigate the area more easily and avoid getting lost.

3. Prioritize Your Activities

Identify your top priorities for the day and focus on those first. Whether it’s visiting a historic landmark or trying local cuisine, make time for what’s most important to you.

4. Avoid Peak Hours

Research opening hours and crowd schedules for popular attractions to avoid peak hours. This will save you time and reduce stress.

5. Go Back to the Ship Early if Needed

If you’re feeling tired or have had your share off the ship, don’t hesitate to head back to the ship early. You can always return later in the day or evening if you change your mind.

6. Leave Buffer Time for Emergencies

Leave some extra time in your schedule for unexpected delays or setbacks. This will give you peace of mind and ensure you’re back on the ship with plenty of time to spare.

7. Stay Informed

Keep your ship’s schedule handy at all times, whether on your phone or in a physical copy. Stay informed about departure times, gate closures, and any other important deadlines.

By following these seven practical tips, you can make the most of your port day and return to your ship feeling relaxed and refreshed. Happy cruising!

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In this case, I’m talking about my passion for cruising and my obsession with celebrity chefs coming together for Chefs Making Waves, a mouth-watering theme cruise that sets sail aboard Norwegian Gem from Miami to Cozumel on May 5, 2025. This 4-night sailing, presented by Sixthman in partnership with a21 and EBG Solutions, is a celebration of dining and mixology that features some of today’s most recognized chefs: Tom Colicchio, Robert Irvine, Geoffrey Zakarian, Maneet Chauhan, Scott Conant, Richard Blais, and more. 

Celebrity chefs aren’t new to cruising by any means — there’s Carnival and Guy Fieri, Crystal and Nobu, Royal Caribbean and Jamie Oliver, Oceania and Jacques Pepin, and Windstar and the James Beard Foundation, to name a few. But Chefs Making Waves brings together a bunch of our favorites to create a dining extravaganza from stem to stern.

Restaurant Takeovers: Don’t worry! Chefs Making Waves won’t squeeze all of its chefs into one galley to fight over the potato peeler. Instead, each chef (or team of chefs) will be assigned one of Norwegian Gem’s six restaurants, showcasing that chef’s specially curated dinner menu for the duration of the sailing. You simply reserve your favorites — no surcharge — and bring your appetite. And there’s more good news: All guests receive a complimentary Premium Plus Beverage Package, meaning wine, beer and cocktails — at dinner and otherwise — are on the house.

Buffet Spotlights: Alas, it’s not possible to experience all six restaurants during a 4-day sailing. But your favorite chefs’ dishes aren’t limited to those served at restaurants at dinner time. Throughout the day, you’ll find some specially created fare at Norwegian Gem’s Garden Café buffet.

Culinary and Mixology Demos: It’s one thing to watch your favorite chef whip up a specialty on TV and quite another to be right there, entertained and educated as he or she shares the secrets behind their tantalizing creations. And, during Chefs Making Waves, the world of mixology will get the same treatment. Best of all — these culinary and mixology demonstrations require no advance reservations or surcharge and you’ll leave with a copy of the recipe(s) to tackle at home. 

Culinary Conversations: Whether it’s kitchen technique and recipe creation, the restaurant business, or creative approaches to fighting hunger, the chefs making waves aboard Chefs Making Waves are looking forward to sharing their experiences in these intimate sessions. And, again, no surcharge or reservations required.

You’ll Vacation With Your Favorite Chefs!: Sure, food and drink might be the main draw during this sailing … but so is just plain fun! Expect dance parties, autograph sessions, and a few upgraded and optional experiences (at an extra charge). For example, did you ever think you’d be playing bingo with your favorite chefs? Aboard Chefs Making Waves, you can! And, of course, you and the chefs will enjoy all of the amenities featured aboard Norwegian Gem, like her swimming pools, hot tubs, spa, casino, sports court, and more, plus a full day in Cozumel to enjoy the beach, the cuisine, and a few margaritas.

Reservations for Chefs Making Waves are open now. For more information, visit Chefs Making Waves – May 5-9, 2025.

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As one of the most popular cruising destinations on the planet, the Caribbean is jam packed with tourist-friendly port excursions for every type of traveler. In this blog, we’ve compiled our ultimate list of the five best shore excursions in the Caribbean, along with various cruise itineraries that will take you there. 

Swimming with pigs in the Bahamas

First up is a refreshing dip in the beautiful blue waters of the Bahamas. However, this is not your typical ocean swim. In this extremely popular tour package from Viator, group members will have the incredible opportunity to mingle and swim with the island’s local pig population.

After taking a 30-minute boat ride to the beautiful Rose Island, you will have the opportunity to lounge on the luxurious beaches and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean. Here, you will get to meet these friendly and sweet swimming pigs, giving you the unforgettable opportunity to splash around and snap as many Instagram-worthy pictures as your heart desires. 

This four-hour tour enhances your in-port experience by providing you with a truly one-of-a-kind beach adventure. If you’re interested in checking this off your bucket list, consider booking your next cruise to the Bahamas with Royal Caribbean or Carnival, as they both offer a plethora of Caribbean itineraries sure to be worth your while.

Waterfall Tour in the Dominican Republic

The next stop on this Caribbean excursion adventure is the beautiful Dominican Republic. Known for its year-round tropical weather and stunning natural beauty, the Dominican Republic is the perfect place to unwind after a long stretch at sea. 

In this affordable and unforgettable shore excursion, you will be guided through the Dominican jungle to a series of seven different waterfalls. Once equipped with the necessary gear (shoes, helmets, and life jackets), you will venture up through the tropical wilderness to each of the seven waterfalls. Not only will you have the opportunity to swim in their sublime waters, but you will also get to slide down natural water slides and explore nature’s beauty in a secluded paradise. 

This tour also includes a buffet-style lunch with beverages included, making it the perfect half-day adventure to give you a small taste of all that the Dominican Republic has to offer. If you’re interested in stopping in the Dominican Republic on your cruise vacation, check out this incredible itinerary from Celebrity Cruises. 

Free Walking Tour in Havana, Cuba

Cuba is one of the most culturally and historically rich countries on the planet. From its tropical climate to its traditional music to its long and turbulent political history, it is the perfect place for travelers looking to get a diverse and immersive Caribbean experience. 

One of the must-do shore excursions of this island nation is to take a walking tour of the historic capital of Havana. Strawberry Tours offers a number of diverse walking tours to choose from. Whether you want to explore the history of the Cuban Revolution or are looking to get to know all that the Havana nightlife has to offer, this is the perfect tour company for you. And the best part? Each and every one of them are free. 

The “Essential Free Tour Havana” provides an in-depth introduction and exploration of this remarkable city. You’ll spend the day roaming its streets and learning all about architecture, history, daily life, and culture from a knowledgeable tour guide. If you’re planning on staying a few days in Havana, this is the perfect way to get to know the ins and outs of the city all the while learning about its fascinating charm. 

Getting to Cuba, however, comes with its challenges. As of 2019, the US government has faced heavy restrictions forbidding cruises from porting in this beautiful Caribbean country. 

However, not all hope is lost, as all it takes to add a stop in Cuba to your Caribbean vacation is a little research, luck, and determination. And with everything Cuba has to offer, it is well worth the trouble. 

Bacardi Rum Distillery in Puerto Rico

No visit to the Caribbean islands would be complete without stopping at a rum distillery, and this one in Puerto Rico is sure to please. As the world’s largest premium rum distillery, this is a can’t-miss spot just a stone’s throw from San Juan’s cruise port. 

The distillery itself offers a wide range of guided tours, from a VIP Founder’s experience to a Mixology course to a simple rum tasting. The features of these tours vary, but you can rest assured that no matter which one you choose, you’ll get to learn the ins and outs of the rum business all the while sampling the rich flavors of the world renowned Bacardi rums. 

Unique among its tours, the Mixology course is perfect for those hoping to take some knowledge back home with them. You’ll learn not only the fundamentals of mixology, but you’ll also learn how to craft the perfect cocktails to impress your friends and family back home. 

Interested? Consider booking your Puerto Rican cruise vacation with Royal Caribbean, as they have on offer a wide range of cruises with port stops in San Juan. No matter which one you pick, you are sure to garner memories to last a lifetime. 

ATV Tour to Secret Beach in Aruba

Rounding out this list of the best shore excursions in the Caribbean is this exhilarating ATV tour in Aruba. Taking you to exclusive, hidden locations on the island, this tour is guaranteed to give you the adrenaline-inducing adventure of your dreams. 

On this excursion, you will have the opportunity to drive your very own ATV through paradise, allowing you to access beaches and sightseeing locations inaccessible to most tourists. In addition to swimming at these secret beaches, you’ll also be able to go cliff diving and hiking, giving you a one-of-a-kind, action-packed experience. 

The best part of this shore excursion is that your guide will pick you up directly at your cruise’s port location, making navigating to and from this tour as simple and seamless as possible. There are plenty of cruise lines that dock in Aruba, but these itineraries from Carnival Cruises are some of the most valuable offers out there. 

These Caribbean Shore Excursions Are Waiting for You!

As you can see, the Caribbean is home to a host of unforgettable shore excursions that are sure to elevate your cruise vacation. With the region’s rich history and stunning topography, you are sure to find a shore excursion that’ll have you reminiscing for years to come. Whether you choose to swim with pigs in the Bahamas or taste the world famous rum in Puerto Rico, you are sure to have a blast. And the best part? When the adventure’s over, you get to return to the ship and continue with your wonderful cruise experience. That’s what we call luxury. 

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