Porthole Cruise and Travel, Author at Porthole Cruise and Travel

Essential Items to Bring Aboard

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 15:30:19 +0000

Before setting sail, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of your cruise and forget the essentials. To ensure a stress-free cruise experience, add these must-have items to your packing list!

Packing for a Cruise: The Essentials

Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s cover the basics. Here are the must-haves:

Passport (and a copy of your passport)
Cruise documents (printed or electronic)
Travel insurance information
ID and credit cards
A small daypack for shore excursions
Comfortable clothing and shoes
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, etc.)
Medications and any necessary prescriptions

What to Bring

Remember, there are no limits on liquids or toiletries sizes, so feel free to pack your favorite products!

Wine and other spirits: Yes, you can bring your own wine on board! Just be sure to check with your cruise line for specific guidelines on quantities and packaging.

Toiletries: Pack as many as you like – there’s no limit! Bring your favorite shampoo, conditioner, lotion, makeup, and more.

Clothing: Pack enough clothes for your trip, plus one extra day. You never know when you might need an extra outfit.

Electronics: Don’t forget to pack essential chargers for your phone, camera, and other devices you can’t live without. Research whether you’ll need a converter for your destination, as different countries have different power outlet configurations.

Beachwear: Pack a swimsuit, cover-up, and sunglasses for those sunny days at the pool or beach.

Entertainment: Bring books or magazines to keep you entertained during downtime.

What to Leave Behind

Don’t worry about bringing these items – they’re either provided on board or available for purchase:

Towels: The cruise line will provide towels for your use.

Linens: You won’t need to bring bed linens or pillows – they’re taken care of by the cruise staff.

Hairdryer: Hairdryers are usually available in cabin bathrooms or at the spa.Ironing board: You won’t need an ironing board – the cruise line willhandlef any wrinkled clothing.

Packing Tips

To make the most of your cruise packing experience:

Roll your clothes to save space in your luggage and reduce wrinkles.
Use packing cubes or compression bags to keep your belongings organized and easy to find.
Pack essentials like medications and important documents in an easily accessible place.
Consider packing a small bin or bag with essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and seasickness medication.

Before you set sail, check with your cruise line for specific packing restrictions or recommendations, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date, and leave valuable jewelry or important documents in a safe place on land,

With these packing tips and tricks, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable cruise experience.

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Magic at Sea – Revealed!

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:58:10 +0000

Have you been spellbound by TV shows like America’s Got Talent and Masters of Illusion? Are you amazed by top Las Vegas showmen like David Copperfield and Penn & Teller? Have you fantasized about watching the world’s slickest sleight-of-hand artists at Hollywood’s famed Magic Castle, but didn’t know how to score an invitation?

Recognizing magic’s current state of popularity, several cruise lines are upping their game for magical entertainment.

Here’s what they have up their sleeves…

Princess Cruises

Spellbound Magic | Photo: Princess Cruises

Like a magician’s assistant that’s been cut in half, the magical news from Princess comes in two parts. First, behind an innocuous-looking door aboard the new Sun Princess lies Spellbound by Magic Castle, a permanent, one-of-a-kind magical experience created in collaboration with the elite private club. Victorian-inspired décor, including magical artifacts, vintage curiosities, and interactive special effects, provides the perfect surroundings for enjoying an upscale dinner and theatrical cocktails before entering the 30-seat Spellbound Theater, where you’ll view astonishing close-up magic by handpicked, world-class performers. It’s the closest thing you’ll find to visiting the actual Magic Castle in Los Angeles; however, no expensive membership is required, and you don’t need to be a magician, or know one, to enter! The Spellbound experience costs $149 per person, including dinner, entertainment, and unlimited drinks.

But what if you still want more? Then consider the second Conjurer’s Cruise aboard Sun Princess, November 9-16, 2024, departing from Fort Lauderdale with Caribbean ports of call and a daily schedule filled with magical activities and performances. Also produced in affiliation with the Magic Castle, this will be a week of prestidigitation that you won’t soon forget.

P&O Cruises

Unbelievable Show | Photo: P&O Cruises

If you fancy a Las Vegas style production show, you need look no further than Unbelievable aboard British cruise line P&O’s Arcadia, Aurora, Azura, Britannia, and Ventura ships, this summer and beyond.

This high-tech extravaganza goes full throttle with lasers, fire, neon, water, and UV light, and features both classic and brand-new illusions that will make you laugh, gasp, and say “How did they do that?”

After the show, if you want to learn some magic of your own, a specially curated box of magic tricks and illusions will be available to purchase exclusively on board.

Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Naathan Phan | Photo: Paul Thomas Kosmala

And, of course, cruise lines have long favored having magicians as part of their onboard entertainment mix. On a February cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Nautica, I was fortunate to enjoy the versatile Naathan Phan utilize magic, singing, comedy, and spot-on impressions in his energetic performances. Naathan brings audiences to their feet by skillfully and seamlessly incorporating these seemingly incongruous talents into his shows. You won’t want to miss his operatic straitjacket escape!

In the coming months, he will be performing on Princess, Oceania, and Regent ships. To catch his act on board, you can find his schedule at www.magicasianman.com

With choices like these, you can book your magical cruise experience at the drop of a hat. Just make sure you don’t hurt the rabbit!

By Alan Kratish

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7 Ways to Make the Most of Your Morning on a Cruise

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 13:29:43 +0000

As an early riser, I find the morning hours to hold a special magic. The world is still waking up, the sun is shining bright, and the possibilities are endless. And on a cruise, there’s no better way to start your day than with a sense of adventure and a spring in your step. But what makes mornings on a cruise so special? Is it the stunning ocean views, the peaceful quiet, or the chance to beat the crowds? Whatever it is, we’re here to help you make the most of it.

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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Oceania Cruises Offers Luxurious Voyages Across East Asia

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 13:16:19 +0000

Oceania Cruises offers a collection of East Asian voyages in the first half 2025! The cruise line’s Asia voyages include visiting Hong Kong, Bali, Kyoto, and Phuket, which offer a range of landscapes and cultural experiences.

With a maximum capacity of 1,250 guests and a high staff-to-guest ratio, Oceania’s luxury ships provide an intimate experience, allowing guests to access remote ports and discover local cultures.

“Asia is one of the most striking regions in the world to explore by sea; the powerful contrasts between its ultra-modern and historic influences are breathtaking,” remarks Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. “Through our thoughtful itineraries and our incredible array of immersive small group tours, guests can enjoy the region’s timeless heritage and impressive futuristic strides in one trip – making guests feel like they’re traveling through time. These destinations are truly not to be missed.”

Oceania Cruises’ small-group shore excursions offer:

Food-focused tours in Thailand and Vietnam.
Wellness Discovery Tours.
Go Local Tours that showcase authentic local life.
Go Green excursions that promote sustainability.
Overland experiences that allow guests to fulfill bucket list items.

Oceania Cruises offers a range of itineraries in East Asia, from 6 to 24 days, aboard its ultra-premium ships, providing world-class comfort for exploring the region. With its simply MORE value promise, guests can enjoy added value and convenience, including 2-for-1 cruise fares, free shore excursions, Champagne, wine and beer, and free WiFi.

HIGHLIGHTED VOYAGES

6-Day Voyage: Singapore to Singapore

Explore the Malay Peninsula and surrounding islands.

14-Day Voyage: Taipei to Kyoto

Visit ancient Japan and China, with stops in Shanghai, Beijing, and Kyoto.

15-Day Voyage: Singapore to Taipei

Discover temples, markets, and tropical retreats in Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hong Kong.

20-Day Voyage: Hong Kong to Bali

See idyllic islands and beaches in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Singapore, and Bali.

24-Day Voyage: Tokyo to Singapore

Visit Boracay Island, Brunei, and unspoiled Borneo, with stops in Tokyo, Jakarta, and Bali.

Explore the complete 2025 East Asia itineraries here.

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Avoid These 7 Mistakes on Disembarkation Day

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 13:54:20 +0000

The final day of your cruise has arrived, and it’s time to say goodbye to the ship and hello to land. To ensure a smooth and stress-free disembarkation, avoid these common mistakes!

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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Regent Seven Seas Cruises Reveals 2026-2027 Voyage Collection

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 16:48:45 +0000

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced its 2026-2027 Voyage Collection, featuring itineraries that take travelers to destinations worldwide.

The 2026-2027 Voyage Collection from Regent Seven Seas Cruises features 173 new itineraries covering popular global destinations like Africa & Arabia, Alaska, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Canada & New England, the Caribbean & Panama Canal, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South America, and the South Pacific. Pre-registration for voyages is now open, and reservations will be available for sale starting July 24, 2024.

“Our 2026-2027 Voyage Collection Debut is an incredible array of sailings that offers luxury travelers the opportunity to experience new cultures, gain new perspectives, and create unforgettable memories across thousands of nautical miles,” said Andrea DeMarco, President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “Whether spending 7 days or 7 weeks or more on board, our guests will see the world while enjoying the highest standards of personalized service, and the most comprehensive inclusion list of any ultra luxury cruise line from spacious suites to unlimited shore excursions, from exquisite specialty dining to premium beverages.”

Besides the cruise line’s 140-night 2027 World Cruise, the Collection features four new Grand Voyages ranging from 60 to 82 nights in length and eight Immersive Overnight sailings.

The 2027 World Cruise features new itineraries sailing from Seattle to Alaska, Galveston, Texas, and Tampa, Florida, to the Caribbean.
The Collection includes seven port-intensive voyages in Japan, tours of the Fjords of Milford and Doubtful & Dusky Sound in New Zealand, South American adventures to the Drake Passage and the Arctic Peninsula, and four Icelandic sailings.
The cruise line offers numerous overnight stays in destinations such as Hong Kong, China; Bora Bora, French Polynesia; and Mumbai, India.
The Collection also includes maiden ports of call in exotic locales, including Mombasa, Kenya; Zanzibar, Tanzania; and Melaka, Malaysia.

To celebrate the launch of the Voyage Collection, Regent is offering a limited-time promotion:

Book two or more voyages between July 24 and August 7, 2024, and receive 5% off all subsequent 2026-2027 Voyage Collection sailings.
The offer applies to any open sailing in 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027.

Voyage Collection Highlights

AFRICA & ARABIA

Seven Seas Navigator and Seven Seas Voyager offers 9 Africa & Arabia sailings, ranging from 15 to 21 nights. Destinations include Maputo, Mozambique; Nosy Be, Madagascar; Port Praslin, Seychelles; Cape Town, South Africa; Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Dubai, UAE; Mombasa, Kenya; and Zanzibar, Tanzania.

ALASKA

Seven Seas Explorer will sail to Alaska on 16 voyages, ranging from 7 to 14 nights. Departure ports include Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska; and Seattle, Washington. Destinations include Klawock, Sitka, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, and Hubbard Glacier.

ASIA

Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Navigator will sail to Asia on 15 voyages, 12-20 nights. Highlights include seven port-intensive Japan voyages, including visits to Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, and Shanghai. Other ports of call include India, Indonesia, South Korea, Sri Lanka, and new destinations: Hirara (Miyakojima), Sakaiminato, Kanazawa, Akita, Oarai, Kupang (West Timor), Lombok (Lembar), and Melaka.

Australia & New Zealand

Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Navigator offer eight sailings from 10-19 nights, including two holiday cruises. Highlights include the Fjords of Milford and Dusky & Doubtful Sounds in New Zealand, visits to Sydney, Tasmania, Whitsunday Islands, Napier, Rotorua, and an overnight stop in Melbourne.

Canada & New England

Seven Seas Splendor offers five voyages from 10-11 nights. Visit ports of call, including Bar Harbor, Boston, Halifax, Montreal, and Québec City, which are perfect for exploring America’s colonial heritage or enjoying the region’s seafood.

Caribbean & Panama Canal

Seven Seas Grandeur, Seven Seas Mariner, and Seven Seas Splendor offer 22 voyages to the Caribbean and Panama Canal. Sailings range from 7-17 nights and include four holiday cruises. Destinations include Castries, St Lucia; Cartagena, Colombia; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; and Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Mediterranean

Regent offers 47 sailings in the Mediterranean, including four immersive overnight stays in ports like Rome, Italy; Valencia, Spain; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Athens, Greece; Istanbul, Turkey; and Lisbon, Portugal. New destinations include Gallipoli, Italy. Sailings range from 7-15 nights.

Northern Europe

Seven Seas Grandeur, Seven Seas Navigator, and Seven Seas Voyager offer 28 voyages to Northern Europe. Destinations include London, England; Reykjavik, Iceland; Bordeaux, France; Stockholm, Sweden; Dublin, Ireland; Dunkerque, France; Paamiut, Greenland; and Mandal, Norway (new for Regent).

South America

Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Mariner offer seven sailings to South America, ranging from 11 to 22 nights. Destinations include Ushuaia, Argentina; Port Stanley, Falkland Islands; Manaus, Brazil; Manta, Ecuador; and Punta Arenas, Chile—experience once-in-a-lifetime adventures such as sailing the Amazon River, Drake Passage, and Arctic Peninsula.

South Pacific

Seven Seas Navigator makes three voyages to the South Pacific, including a round-trip sailing from Papeete (Tahiti) that explores French Polynesia. The sailings last 10-18 nights, and visit Bora Bora, Mystery Island, Vanuatu, Suva, Fiji, Nouméa, New Caledonia, and Apia, Samoa.

Transoceanic Voyages

Seven Seas Grandeur, Seven Seas Mariner, and Seven Seas Splendor offer seven transatlantic sailings between 14-16 nights. Sail from favorite cities in Europe and America, including Lisbon to New York, Barcelona to Miami, Rome to Miami, and Miami to Rome. Visit the Azores, Madeira, and Bermuda along the way.

Grand Voyages

The Collection offers four new Grand Voyages that span multiple continents and months. These epic journeys include amenities like pre-night hotel and dinner packages, exclusive shoreside experiences, door-to-door luggage service, unlimited valet laundry, phone time per suite, onboard medical consultations, and a commemorative gift.

Grand Arctic Adventure
New York to Barcelona, Spain
Seven Seas Mariner
June 29, 2026 | 81 Nights

Grand Asia Exploration
Tokyo, Japan to Sydney, Australia
Seven Seas Explorer
October 20, 2026 | 60 Nights

Grand Continental Sojourn
Barcelona, Spain to Sydney, Australia
Seven Seas Navigator
November 9, 2026 | 82 Nights

Indian Ocean Odyssey
Cape Town, South Africa to Barcelona, Spain
Seven Seas Voyager
February 1, 2027 | 61 Nights

Immersive Overnight Voyages

Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers eight new Immersive Overnight itineraries in 2026-2027, featuring overnight stays in multiple destinations.

Capital City Kaleidoscope

Rome, Italy to London, England.
Seven Seas Grandeur, May 24, 2026, 13 nights.
Overnight stays in Monte Carlo, Monaco; Barcelona, Spain; La Coruña, Spain; Paris (Honfleur), France; London (Southampton), England.

Treasures of the Adriatic

Venice, Italy, to Istanbul, Turkey.
Seven Seas Voyager, June 16, 2026, 12 nights.
Overnight stays in Venice (Trieste), Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Heraklion (Crete), Greece; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Istanbul, Turkey.

Scandinavian Cityscapes

Antwerp, Belgium, to Stockholm, Sweden.
Seven Seas Navigator, July 19, 2026, 9 nights.
Overnight stays in Antwerp, Belgium; Oslo, Norway; Copenhagen, Denmark; Stockholm, Sweden.

Stylish, Culture & Cuisine

Lisbon, Portugal to London, England.
Seven Seas Voyager, July 20, 2026, 14 nights.
Overnight stays in Bordeaux, France; Paris (Le Havre), France; Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium; Amsterdam (Ijmuiden), Netherlands.

Storied Scandinavia

Stockholm, Sweden, to Oslo, Norway.
Seven Seas Grandeur, August 29, 2026, 10 nights.
Overnight stays in Stockholm, Sweden; Berlin (Warnemünde), Germany; Copenhagen, Denmark; Oslo, Norway.

Enchanted Evenings

Barcelona, Spain, to Rome, Italy.
Seven Seas Mariner, September 18, 2026, 11 nights.
Overnight stays in Barcelona, Spain; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Tuscany (Livorno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy.

Mediterranean Nights

Barcelona, Spain, to Rome, Italy.
Seven Seas Voyager, September 28, 2026, 12 nights.
Overnight stays in Barcelona, Spain; Toulon, France; Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Italy; Valletta, Malta; Sorrento/Capri, Italy.

Glamorous Grecian Nights

Athens to Istanbul.
Seven Seas Voyager, October 24, 2026, 10 nights.
Overnight stays in Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Heraklion (Crete), Greece; Rhodes, Greece; Istanbul, Turkey.

Will you be exploring Regent’s 2026-2027 Voyage Collection? Let us know in the comments!

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Getting Around

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 13:35:33 +0000

Don’t let mobility challenges hinder your travel plans.

Many destinations all over the world have recently added accessible enhancements, such as mobility-friendly boats, accessible water taxis, and beaches outfitted with everything you’ll need to relax. Here are a few spots to try.

Alaska

On the surface, Alaska doesn’t seem like it would be the most accessible destination, but hear me out! There are many Alaskan excursions that are ideal, from a helicopter ride over a glacier to whale-watching from a wheelchair-accessible boat. One of the most popular excursions in Alaska is a ride on the Alaska Railroad, which takes you through Anchorage and the Denali National Park. You could also opt for the Inside Passage trip, which takes visitors from Skagway to Fraser, BC.

California

Take a Pacific Coast cruise to California ports including Catalina Island and San Francisco. Stop at the wheelchair-accessible Granada Beach, which supplies access mats for easy roll-ability. Next, head to Palm Desert for The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, where you can hop on an accessible carousel and roll down the paved pathways throughout the zoo; with wheelchair rentals ($15 per day) and complimentary admission for all aides.

CocoCay

Take a Royal Caribbean cruise to CocoCay, which is the line’s own private island in the Bahamas (you can only get here via a cruise aboard Royal Caribbean or one of the lines in the Royal Caribbean Group, which are also incredibly accessible). There’s a complimentary tram that runs on a loop throughout the island, plus complimentary beach-access wheelchairs.

Barcelona

Step off a ship and into one of the largest ports in Europe. There are accessible shuttles from the port into the city, or you can opt for an accessible taxi. Visit the famous Basílica de la Sagrada Familia with an aide (free for both if you have an accredited disability), take an adapted tour of the gothic Catedral de Barcelona in the Gothic Quarter (there’s a ramp at the Carrer del Bisbe entrance, and there are accessible bathrooms in the central garden, but be prepared for a few small hills on the way to the cathedral), and end the day at La Boqueria Market, one of the best Spanish markets, where they have narrow but accessible aisles, complete with ramps.

Hawaii

This state is one of the best spots for accessible travel. A handful of beaches on each island offer .…

By Danielle Braff

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Are Cruise Ship Thermal Suites Worth the Splurge?

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 14:51:46 +0000

Cruise ships offer a range of luxurious amenities, and among them are thermal suites, often touted as a must-try experience. But are they truly worth the splurge? In this article, we will weigh the pros and cons to help you decide if they’re a worthwhile indulgence for your next voyage.

What is a thermal suite?

A thermal suite is a spa or wellness center on a cruise ship that offers a range of treatments and facilities designed to promote relaxation and detoxification. Think saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, and more!

What can you expect from a cruise ship thermal suite?

Typically, thermal suites offer:

Sauna: A traditional sauna that heats to high temperatures to detoxify and purify your pores.

Steam Room: A space filled with steam that helps loosen tight muscles and open up your pores.

Hot Tub: A warm pool perfect for relaxing after a long day at sea.

Cold Plunge Pool: A chilly pool that challenges circulation and invigorates your senses (for the brave!).

Relaxation Areas: Comfortable seating areas for lounging and unwinding.

Are cruise ship thermal suites worth it?

Pros:

Relaxation: Thermal suites are designed to help you unwind after a long day at sea.

Pampering: Treat yourself to luxurious treatments and amenities.

Unique experience: You won’t find this on just any ship!

Breathtaking views: Many thermal suites offer stunning ocean views.

Cons:

Expensive: Thermal suites can be pricey, especially if you book multiple treatments.

Crowded: Popular thermal suites can be busy, especially during peak hours.

Limited availability: Book early to ensure availability as appointments fill up.

Tips for making the most of your thermal suite experience

Plan: Book appointments in advance to ensure availability.

Timing is everything: Visit during off-peak hours for a more peaceful experience.

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before and after your session.

Respect the rules: Follow guidelines for using each facility to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Will you be exploring your ship’s thermal suite? Let us know below!

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How To Be A Port Day Pro

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Are you tired of feeling rushed and stressed during your port days at sea? With so many amazing activities and attractions to explore, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. With a little planning and strategy, you can make the most of your time ashore and return to your ship on time and easily.

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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EXPLORA I Unveils New Entertainment Lineup

Porthole Cruise and Travel — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 17:58:03 +0000

EXPLORA I has announced the launch of its new entertainment programming, which began on July 5, 2024.

The comprehensive 14-day program is now underway, offering a range of evening performances, activities, and events for guests to enjoy. The program includes innovative performances by international artists and musicians joining the existing ensemble.

Steve Leatham, Vice President of Entertainment, Cruises Division, expressed his excitement: “We are thrilled to introduce more activities and performances, bringing each journey to life with color and variety. Our team will captivate younger guests in the Nautilus, with new activities and events enhancing this award-winning family program.”

Digital Activities: Industry First

EXPLORA I introduces a game-changing innovation in the cruise industry with its ‘Digital Activities’ feature. Guests can access daily activities, including trivia, crosswords, and word searches, by scanning QR codes on their devices. Classic games like Sudoku and Chess are also available.

The technology allows guests to interact with performers in real time. In the Astern Lounge, guests can view song lists and make requests by scanning a QR code.

Daytime Activities

EXPLORA I’s daytime activities bring the Ocean State of Mind to life. Enjoy poolside performances by musicians, performers, and wellness experts. Pair this with specially curated drinks and snacks, and every desire is met in a single spot.

Hosted Events and Activities

The cruise line offers daily events, including new experiences and activities. Choose from various options, including sports, interactive events, and a multi-day mystery game.

Evening Entertainment

Enjoy live music in various venues, including poolside DJs, piano performances, and singer-musician combos. The Explora Music Series features 14 unique vocalists and guest acts in the Journeys Lounge. Evening options include main-stage performances, intimate lobby sessions, and late-night wellness events.

Summer Performances

Enjoy live music featuring DJs, saxophonists, and tribute acts to iconic artists. Special performances include Voices of Vegas and Motor City, with new solo artists and musicians joining the lineup each evening.

Ray Carr, Michael Langley, and Keri Noble have joined Explora Journeys as Entertainment Managers. These experienced professionals will lead a high-quality entertainment experience on every journey this summer.

Will you try the new entertainment programs with EXPLORA I? Let us know in the comments!

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