Cruise guides & advice
Everything you need to know before you sail - from drinks packages and dress codes to the best deals from UK ports.
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.
How strict is the luggage allowance on a no-fly cruise from Southampton?
Discover the real luggage rules for Southampton cruises, including weight limits, alcohol policies, and prohibited items for major UK cruise lines.
No-fly cruises to the Mediterranean: Pros, cons, and best lines
Discover the best no-fly Mediterranean cruises from Southampton, covering top lines like P&O, Princess, and MSC, plus essential pros and cons.
What happens if you miss the cruise ship at a port call?
Discover what happens if you miss your cruise ship at port, from the vital role of port agents to the potential costs of rejoining.
What is a 'Guaranteed Cabin' and should you risk it?
Discover what a guaranteed cabin means, the potential for upgrades, and whether the significant savings outweigh the risks of a poor location.
Southampton Port Navigation Map & Cheat Sheet
Master the Port of Southampton with our expert guide to terminals, parking, and transit for a stress-free cruise departure.
The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist (Mediterranean vs. Fjords)
One packing list does not fit every cruise. Here's how to pack smart for a sun-soaked Mediterranean sailing versus a cool, dramatic Norwegian fjords voyage.
Best off-season and shoulder-season Mediterranean cruises
Skip the summer crowds and inflated fares. Here's why shoulder-season Mediterranean cruises offer the best mix of weather, value and quieter ports.
Marella Cruises All Inclusive: What is actually included and what costs extra?
Marella sells itself as truly all-inclusive, but what does that really mean? Here's what's covered as standard, and the extras that still land on your bill.
Can you cruise around the UK without a passport?
Round-Britain and round-trip cruises can sometimes be done without a passport, but the rules are nuanced. Here's exactly when you need one and when you don't.
What is the dress code for a P&O formal night? (What men and women actually wear)
Black tie or smart frock? Here's what P&O's formal nights (now Celebration Nights) really require, what men and women actually wear, and how to pack light.