Cruise guides & advice
Everything you need to know before you sail - from drinks packages and dress codes to the best deals from UK ports.
Adults-Only Cruises from the UK: Virgin Voyages vs. P&O Arcadia
Compare Virgin Voyages and P&O Arcadia for your next UK adults-only cruise. Discover differences in dining, atmosphere, and pricing from Southampton.
3 things you should NEVER buy on a cruise ship (do this instead)
Discover the three items you should never buy on a cruise ship to save hundreds on your next Southampton departure.
Are Cruise Line Private Islands (Like Perfect Day at CocoCay) worth it?
Discover if cruise line private islands like CocoCay offer genuine value or a pricey tourist trap for UK travellers seeking Caribbean sun.
Expedition cruising: Affordable ways to see the Northern Lights
Discover how to see the Northern Lights on a budget, covering no-fly UK departures, savvy cabin choices, and affordable cruise line options.
How to avoid stomach bugs and norovirus on a cruise ship
Learn practical tips to stay healthy on your next cruise, from hand-washing secrets to buffet safety on lines like P&O and Royal Caribbean.
Are solo cruise supplements worth it? Best lines for singles
Discover if solo cruise supplements are worth the cost and which lines, from P&O to Virgin Voyages, offer the best value for solo travellers.
The best cruise cabins to book if you are prone to severe seasickness
Discover the best cruise cabin locations to minimise motion sickness, from midships balconies to lower-deck strategies on major UK cruise lines.
Best cruise and stay packages for 2026
Discover the top cruise and stay packages for 2026, featuring Orlando thrills, Mediterranean escapes, and iconic Transatlantic crossings from Southampton.
Best Southampton hotels with cruise parking
Discover the best Southampton hotels offering cruise parking packages, from luxury stays at the Grand Harbour to budget-friendly options near the terminals.
The best inside cabins on Royal Caribbean (How to avoid noise)
Discover how to pick the quietest inside cabins on Royal Caribbean ships, avoiding engine noise and galley clatter for a peaceful cruise.
Can you take a hair straightener on a cruise? (Rules by line)
Discover the essential rules for taking hair straighteners on cruise lines like P&O, Cunard, and Royal Caribbean, including safety tips and voltage advice.
Best time to book a last-minute cruise from Southampton for the lowest price
Discover how to secure the cheapest last-minute cruises from Southampton by timing your booking within the 90-day window and identifying seasonal price drops.
Top 10 everyday items that are strictly banned on cruise ships
Discover the 10 everyday items, from extension leads to kettles, that are strictly banned on cruise ships to ensure safety at sea.
The 'Drink Package Math' trick (How to know if you'll save money)
Learn how to calculate the 'break-even' point for cruise drinks packages on P&O, Royal Caribbean, and more to save money on your next voyage.
How to get a free cabin upgrade on a cruise ship (Myth vs. reality)
Discover the truth about free cruise cabin upgrades, from 'guarantee' fares to bidding systems on P&O, Royal Caribbean, and Cunard.
The First-Timer's Cruise Budget Calculator (Hidden fees explained)
Master your holiday finances with our expert breakdown of cruise costs, including gratuities, drinks packages, and shore excursions for UK travellers.
Hidden spots on MSC Virtuosa you didn't know existed
Discover the quietest lounges, secret outdoor terraces, and the best views on MSC Virtuosa with our expert guide for UK cruisers.
What food and restaurants are completely free on a cruise ship?
Discover which cruise ship restaurants are included in your fare, from P&O's Main Dining Rooms to Virgin Voyages' boutique eateries.
Is cruise ship Wi-Fi worth it? (How to stay connected at sea for cheap)
Discover the real cost of cruise ship Wi-Fi, from Starlink speeds to money-saving tips for P&O, Royal Caribbean, and MSC Cruises.
How much cash should you bring on a cruise? (Dollars, Euros, or card only)
Discover the best way to handle money on your cruise, from onboard accounts and tipping to which currencies to carry in port.
The Me-Kend: Top 3-night mini-cruises from the UK
Discover the best three-night mini-cruises from Southampton. We review P&O, MSC, and Virgin Voyages for the ultimate long weekend escape.