Guides
Cruise guides
Straight answers to the questions every cruiser asks — costs, timing, visas, food, packing and more.
How to choose a cruise line: the 12 types compared
Pick the cruise type first, then the line. Mainstream lines (Royal Caribbean, MSC, Carnival) suit families and first-timers; premium lines…
Cruise, river cruise, ferry or yacht charter: which is right for you?
Choose an ocean cruise for an all-in holiday that visits several countries; a river cruise to see inland cities with almost no sea motion;…
Best time to cruise every region: month-by-month
Cruise the Caribbean December–April, the Mediterranean May–June or September–October, Alaska and Northern Europe June–August, Antarctica…
How much does a cruise cost? A transparent breakdown
A 7-night mainstream ocean cruise costs roughly US$600–1,500 per person in an inside or ocean-view cabin, and US$1,000–2,500 with a…
Your first cruise: 15 questions answered
On a first cruise you check in online, board at the port 2–4 hours before sailing, attend a short safety drill, and then everything —…
Vegetarian, Jain, halal and Indian food on cruises
Every major cruise line serves vegetarian meals at every service. Jain food (no onion, garlic or root vegetables) is available on many…
Cruise packing list by climate (with a printable checklist)
Pack for the climate at your ports, not just the ship: light breathable clothes and sun protection for tropical cruises; layers, a…
Cruise visa guide: what you need for each region
You generally need entry permission for every country where your ship docks, even if you stay on board. One Schengen visa covers most…
Cruise travel insurance: what it must cover
Cruise insurance should cover emergency medical treatment and evacuation at sea (which can cost US$50,000+), trip cancellation, missed port…
Booking an international cruise from India: payments, LRS, TCS and EMI
Indian residents can pay for international cruises in rupees through an Indian travel company. Payments fall under RBI's Liberalised…
Cruise glossary: 40 terms explained
A quick-reference glossary of cruise terms — from 'aft' and 'APA' to 'tender' and 'repositioning cruise' — in plain…
Cruising for families, couples, seniors and solo travellers
Families do best on big ships with kids' clubs (Royal Caribbean, Disney, MSC, Norwegian); couples on premium, luxury or adults-only lines…