Cruisella Talks Ship

CTS — What Cruises Really Cost: Gratuities Explained

What Cruises Really Cost: Gratuities Explained Ever wondered what that daily service charge on your cruise bill actually covers — and where the money goes? In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about cruise gratuities: what they are, how much each major cruise line charges, who receives the money, and what happens if you remove them. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser trying to budget accurately or a seasoned sailor curious about the system behind the charge, this episode gives you the full picture. Note: Gratuity rates change regularly. Always confirm current rates directly with your cruise line before sailing. This episode is not sponsored. 💬 Have thoughts on cruise gratuities? Agree, disagree, or have a story from your own sailing? Come find me on Instagram at @cruisellatalksship — I’d love to hear from you.

CTS — Move a Little, Indulge a Little

A no-rules approach to feeling good on your cruise vacation

CTS — The Best Places to Cruise in May: Weather, Crowds and What to Expect

May is one of the more underrated months to cruise and this episode breaks down why. From the Mediterranean and the Caribbean to Alaska, Bermuda and the Baltic — we cover the weather, the crowd levels, which lines are sailing where, and what makes each destination worth considering this time of year. Plus a note on hurricane season and why May sits in a reasonable window for Caribbean sailings.

CTS — Cruise Souvenirs and Collectibles: What Experienced Cruisers Bring Home

What do experienced cruisers collect? This episode digs into the cruise collecting world — from keycards and magnets to ship models, pins and local port finds. Whether you’re already building a collection or haven’t thought about it yet, there might be something here that turns you into a collector.

CTS — All Aboard: Norwegian Star | Cruise Control

This episode covers some of our time onboard the Norwegian Star — the ship, the entertainment, the activities, and everything in between. From seat selection at the shows to the quieter corners of the ship worth seeking out, this is a look at what part of the onboard experience actually felt like on our March 26 sailing out of Tampa.

CTS — All Aboard: Norwegian Star | Ready Set Sail

Choosing a cruise that works for everyone is not always straightforward. In this episode Cruisella breaks down how and why the Norwegian Star made the cut — a group sailing spanning a wide range of ages and mobility needs, first time cruisers included. From the itinerary length to the port of departure, we cover what factored into the decision and why the Norwegian Star checked the right boxes for this particular group.

CTS — All Aboard: Norwegian Star | Word on the Water

Before Cruisella sets foot on the Norwegian Star, she’s hitting the reviews. In this first episode of the All Aboard series, it’s all secondhand — Find out what past guests are saying. The journey starts here.

311 Rule Explained — Flying to Your Cruise Port

How to pack liquids correctly for a smoother airport experience as you prepare to board your next cruise

Pack Light, Cruise Right - Your carry-on only guide to warm weather cruising

Can you really do a cruise with just a carry-on? Yes — and in this episode we show you exactly how. From clothing and footwear to toiletries, documents, and packing strategy, we cover everything you need for a warm weather cruise without checking a single bag.
Whether you’re heading to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Bahamas, or Hawaii, this episode will save you money on baggage fees, time at the carousel, and stress on every travel day.

Tampa: Cruising from the Gulf Coast, Getting Your Bearings and a Few City Highlights

In this episode we’re heading to Tampa, Florida — one of the Gulf Coast’s most underrated cruise ports. I’m sailing out of Tampa in March and flying in from Canada, so this one covers the basics of getting oriented in the city, the distance from the airport to the port, and a few highlights worth checking out if you have time before you board. Practical, straightforward, and useful whether you’re planning a Tampa sailing or just curious about cruising from the Gulf Coast.