In-depth cruise guides and comparisons — first-time cruising, ship classes, cabin selection, cruise-line comparisons and destination guides — are being added here as they’re published.
Cruise tools: Find the Right Cruise · Advanced Cruise Search
Browse by Topic
Planning & Costs
Destinations & Ports
Latest Cruise Guides
-
Best Cruise Ports Near St. Louis: Galveston vs. New Orleans (or Fly to Florida?)
St. Louis has no cruise port of its own. Here’s how driving to Galveston or New Orleans compares with flying nonstop to Fort Lauderdale, Miami or Port Canaveral — and how to decide which is right for your trip.
-
First-Time Cruise Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Sail
Choosing a cruise line, ship, and itinerary, what’s included versus what costs extra, cabin types, documents, packing, and the mistakes to avoid on your first cruise.
-
Ocean vs. River vs. Yacht vs. Expedition Cruises: Which Style Fits You?
A Caribbean megaship, a Danube river cruise, a small luxury yacht, and a Zodiac expedition in Antarctica all get called “cruises” — but they’re very different vacations. Compare ship size, pace, dining, cost, and destinations to find the style that fits how you actually want to travel.
-
Cruise Cabin Guide: Inside vs. Oceanview vs. Balcony vs. Suite
Inside, oceanview, balcony, or suite — the right cabin isn’t just about budget. Location, itinerary, and how much time you’ll actually spend in the room matter just as much. Here’s how to weigh the trade-offs before you book.
-
NCL Free at Sea: What’s Included, What It Costs, and Is It Worth It
Norwegian’s Free at Sea bundles a drink package, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and a shore excursion credit into one offer — but the fine print on who gets what, and what still costs extra, catches a lot of cruisers off guard. Here’s exactly what’s included, what it’s worth, and how to decide if it fits your…
-
The Ultimate Guide to Cruise Status Matches
Compare cruise status match options for MSC, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Virgin and more, including current rules, limits, and what is actually available.