Thinking of taking a cruise while you’re expecting? It’s a great idea! This is the opportunity to relax and enjoy some time before your life is changed by a new bundle of joy. Be aware however, cruise lines do have pregnancy policies in place, and most do not allow passengers who are farther along than 23-24 weeks. Below, you can find a reference list of cruise line pregnancy policies. Be sure to confirm these with your cruise line at the time of booking, Restrictions are subject to change. This post contains affiliate links, if you click and buy a product, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Can you cruise while pregnant? If you have a healthy pregnancy, then going on a cruise vacation is a lovely way to celebrate the upcoming addition to your family. That being said, it’s always safer to talk to your doctor before traveling, especially if you’ve had any issues with your pregnancy in the past. Carnival Cruise Line – Pregnant women are only allowed to sail if pregnant for less than twenty-four completed weeks at time of cruise disembarkation. All pregnant women are required to produce a physician’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health and fit to travel, and that the pregnancy is not high-risk. The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery (EDD). MSC Cruises – MSC and/or the Carriers do not have on board any of the cruise vessels adequate medical facilities or equipment for childbirth; therefore MSC cannot accept a Booking and the Carrier cannot carry any Passenger who will be 24 weeks pregnant or more by the end of the Cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line – NCL will not accept guests who will have entered their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy by the time their travel with NCL concludes. A statement from the expectant mother’s doctor (letterhead form required), stating her due date and fitness to travel, must be sent to NCL’s Access Desk (accessdesk@ncl.com). Royal Caribbean International – Royal Caribbean International cannot accept guests who will have entered their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy by the beginning of the cruise or cruise tour. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check in to ensure they are aware of Royal Caribbean’s pregnancy policy. A physician’s “Fit to Travel” note is required prior to sailing, stating how far along (in weeks) a guest’s pregnancy will be at the beginning of the cruise and confirming that the guest is in good health and not experiencing a high-risk pregnancy. The “Fit to Travel” note should be faxed to the Access Department at 1-954-628-9622. Contact RCL at 1-866-592-7225 or at special_needs@rccl.com if you have already booked a cruise or cruise tour and do not meet this requirement.Celebrity Cruises – Celebrity Cruises cannot accept guests who will have entered their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy by the beginning of the cruise or cruise tour. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check in to ensure they are aware of Celebrity’s pregnancy policy. A physician’s “Fit to Travel” note is required prior to sailing, stating how far along (in weeks) the passenger’s pregnancy will be at the beginning of the cruise and confirming that she is in good health and not experiencing a high-risk pregnancy. The “Fit to Travel” note should be faxed to the Access Department at 1-954-628-9622. Contact Celebrity at 1-866-592-7225 or at special_needs@celebrity.com if you have already booked a cruise or cruise tour and do not meet this requirement. Disney Cruise Line – Women who will enter their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy during the cruise will be refused passage due to safety concerns. Neither a physician’s medical statement nor a waiver of liability will be accepted. In addition, Disney Cruise Line cannot be held responsible or liable for any complications relating to pregnancy at any stage. Holland America Line – Women cannot have begun their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy at any time before or during the cruise. Pregnant guests must provide a physician’s letter stating their expected due date and medical fitness to travel, and asserting that the pregnancy is not high-risk. You must also include your name, booking number, ship, and sailing date. Princess Cruises – Pregnant women are not allowed to sail if they are entering the twenty-fourth week of their pregnancy by the last day of the cruise. All pregnant women are required to produce a physician’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health and fit to travel, and asserting that the pregnancy is not high-risk. The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery calculated from both last menstrual period and ultrasound (if performed), and may be faxed to the Fleet Medical Department’s confidential fax line at 1-661-753-0121. Azamara Cruises – Azamara Club Cruises cannot accept guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy by the beginning of, or at any time during the cruise. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check-in to ensure they are aware of our pregnancy policy. Once Onboard Be sure to request extra pillows and blankets, scout out exit routes and other walkways in the area around your cabin. Have a look at your bathroom facilities before you really need to use them so you know how things work. You may also want to try on your personal flotation device (PFD) found in your cabin to ensure that it will fit you properly. If you find it is too small, ask your cabin steward for another. You may be more prone to nausea enhanced by the ship’s motion. To minimize problems associated with seasickness, try to book a larger ship (more than 1,000 passengers) and a mid-level, mid-ship cabin. These tend to be more stable and do better in rough weather should you encounter it. Ships will normally be staffed with both a doctor and nurse. (Note that ships’ medical personnel charge a fee for their services.) Make sure to discuss your cruise and related travel plans with your doctor. Ask about various seasickness medications orContinueContinue reading “Pregnancy and Cruising: Tips for Expectant Mothers”
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UK ETA: Essential Guide for Cruise Travelers
Union jack flagon pole and Big Ben This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. UPDATE FEBRUARY 24, 2026 .Key 2026 Updates: Exemptions: People with valid UK visas or residency, or those traveling from the Common Travel Area (Ireland, Channel Islands). Mandatory Enforcement (Feb 25, 2026): The grace period ends; all eligible visitors must have an approved ETA. Who Needs One: Citizens from 85 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and all EU nations. Cost & Validity: £16 per application, valid for two years, multiple entries (or until your passport expires). You can check your expiration date on the website if you have already applied. Process: Apply via the “UK ETA” app. Dual Citizens: British/Irish citizens do not need an ETA, but must use a valid British/Irish passport to travel. The UK government has introduced electronic travel authorization (ETA) for visitors who pass through the UK border This includes passengers from the USA, Canada, and Australia. All eligible non-European visitors must apply for an ETA and will need one to travel to the UK from 8 January 2025. You can apply for their ETA through the UK ETA app, which is quick and simple to use and enables most applicants to receive a decision in hours. Visitors can also apply on GOV.UK if they do not have access to a smartphone. What Is the UK ETA? It is a digital travel authorization designed for visitors from visa-exempt countries, including the United States and Canada. It ensures smooth and secure entry to the UK while aligning with similar systems like the USA’s ESTA and Australia’s eVisitor. You do not need to show proof of approval, it is directly linked to your passport. Who Needs an ETA? Travelers from visa-exempt countries must apply for an ETA before arriving in the UK. This includes cruise passengers, children, and anyone entering for tourism, business, or transit. Exceptions include: UK and Irish citizens (including those with dual citizenship using a UK or Irish passport). Travelers with a valid UK visa. you have permission to live, work or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status or right of abode) you are travelling with a British overseas territories citizen passport you live in Ireland and you are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man How to Apply Applying for an ETA is simple: 1. Visit the official UK government website or download the UK ETA app. 2. Provide your passport details, contact information, and biometric data. If using the app, you will scan your face following the directions in the app and scan your passport. 3. You will pay the £16 application fee, directly in the app. Remember…the fee is in £UK, so there will be a currency conversion. Most applications are processed within three working days, but it can take longer, so it wise to apply well in advance of your cruise. We had approval within an hour. Avoid Scams! Only apply via the official government website (Apply for an ETA). Beware of unofficial sites charging inflated fees. Avoid ETA Scams Scams have already begun appearing online. Fraudulent websites may charge excessive fees, collect personal information, or even issue fake approvals that will not be valid for travel. To avoid falling victim: Only apply through the official ETA website. It must end in gov.uk and have the crown on it, as shown below. Be cautious of third-party services claiming to expedite approval. Most applications are expected to be processed quickly, so fast-track services are unnecessary. Our approvals took less than one hour. Never pay more than £16 – If a website charges more, it is probably a scam. Check for official UK branding and website domains. The correct website will always end in gov.uk Be sure the app you are using looks like the image below. If the app/page does not have the crown on it, it is not the official site. How Long Is the ETA Valid? Your ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows for multiple entries, with each stay capped at six months. Once either the passport or the ETA expires, you will need to reapply. You can check your expiration date on the same website. Why Has the UK Introduced the ETA? The ETA enhances border security by pre-screening travelers and tracking arrivals. It helps prevent immigration misuse and ensures compliance with UK laws. What Cruise Passengers Need to Know Cruise passengers need to show proof of your ETA when providing passport details during booking or check-in. Cruise lines may require this information well ahead of departure, so plan accordingly. Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Journey The UK ETA is part of a global shift toward enhanced travel security. While it is an additional step, this will ensure smoother travel experiences. Prepare now and don’t get caught without the necessary documentation. Traveling to Europe? Be sure to check if you need a similar visa to enter any country you plan to visit. EU and Schengen countries will be requiring an ETIAS in late 2026. Do you have travel insurance for your next cruise? The best day to buy it is the day you book so get it now. Insubuy has policies for all travelers. Have you booked your excursions yet? Check out my recommended provider. Stay up-to-date on all the Cruise News: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise and travel even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest boardContinueContinue reading “UK ETA: Essential Guide for Cruise Travelers”
How to Enjoy a Cruise with Your Toddler: A Complete Guide
Traveling with a toddler can be overwhelming. After all, toddlers are restless on flights, don’t adjust well to new bedtime routines, and can be very picky eaters. This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. For these reasons, maybe you’re hesitant to book a cruise with a toddler. Truth is, taking a toddler on a cruise is easier and more fun than you might expect. Chances are, after sailing with your little one(s) for the first time, it wouldn’t be surprising if taking a family cruise becomes a yearly tradition. After all, cruises are the perfect opportunity for multigenerational family members to bond. Spend the day together at the pool, sign up for any number of group activities, and enjoy nightly family meals in the dining room or buffet. Let the grandparents play with the kids for a few hours while you get a massage, take a nap or spend some time onshore together. Of course, there are still many factors to consider before booking your next cruise vacation for your family. What is the best kind of stateroom to the which excursions do you want to take, here is everything you need to know about taking a toddler on a cruise. How old should a child be to go on a cruise? Infants must be at least 6 months old in order to be able to travel on most cruises. For transatlantic cruises, transpacific cruises, and some cruises to South America, as well as cruises with three or more consecutive days at sea, children must be at least 12 months old. What are some of the best cruises for toddlers? Cruising with your toddler for the first time? These are some of the best cruises to book. Cruises with departure ports close to your home city Taking a flight before boarding a cruise with a toddler can be taxing on both kids and parents. By picking a departure port close to home, you will be able to decrease travel time before your cruise begins, ensuring a smoother trip once you do take off on your actual vacation. If you don’t live near a departure port, consider arriving a day or two prior to embarkation. This gives you the chance to stock up on some travel essentials like diapers, their favorite snacks, and sunscreen. Another idea is to break the trip into shorter travel days. No one likes long days traveling in a car. Shorter cruises If you’re taking your first cruise with a toddler, why not try a shorter itinerary (3-4 days)? See how your little one adapts to the sea. If your toddler has traveled well on a cruise before, go ahead and book a longer itinerary (7-10 days), but choose one with multiple port stops and few consecutive days at sea in order to avoid seasickness, boredom and to allow more opportunities for activities on land. Cruises with family-friendly destinations Some ports are more family-oriented than others. For example, little ones might not find a European city tour as interesting as a day swimming with dolphins in the Bahamas or going to Tivoli Gardens in Amsterdam. Be sure to explore family friendly excursions and destinations before deciding on which cruise you’ll ultimately embark on. If you have older children, involve them in the planning process too. Are cruises fun with toddlers? Of course they are! Cruises are fun for kids of all ages, and there are plenty of activities to .keep your toddlers entertained. Kids under the age of 3 can enjoy Toddler Time at the ship’s playroom, They will be able to play with educational toys and interact with other kids around their age. Parental supervision is required, but children don’t have to be potty trained in order to participate. Certain toys and books will also be available to check out and bring back to your stateroom. Potty-trained kids over 3 can participate in the ship’s kids club. Open every day, these centers offer activities for kids with all kinds of interests, Xbox tournaments, culinary experiences, and art programs. You can rest easy that they are being taken care of while you get to enjoy some alone time. It’s a win-win situation for everyone. What should I pack for my toddler on a cruise? Preparation is key when traveling with a toddler on a cruise. We recommend packing the following essentials in your suitcase. Essential Packing Tips for Cruising with Young Children What’s the best stateroom for families cruising with a toddler? The type of stateroom you choose depends on your personal preference and budget. While all staterooms are family friendly, there are some advantages if you decide to book a higher category of stateroom on your cruise while traveling with children. Veranda Stateroom Parents traveling with toddlers may want to book a veranda stateroom. This type of cabin gives adults a little more in-room flexibility. Kids tend to go to bed earlier and a veranda stateroom allows parents to sit outside and still keep an eye on the kids. Just because they have an early bedtime doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the view—and maybe even a glass of wine. Oceanview Stateroom For parents of rowdier toddlers who might prefer to book a room without a balcony, an ocean view staterooms offers you peace of mind and large windows to take in the view outside. Suites If you prefer to cruise in a more spacious and exclusive stateroom, a suite is your best bet. Many suites offer private bedrooms, living areas, and outside verandas. They also include concierge service—which might come in handy if you’re having a particularly difficult day with the kids, plus access to VIP areas of the ship, and plenty of space for active toddlers who like to move around. What will my child eat on a cruise? What to feed a toddler on a cruise ship can be worrisome for parents of picky eaters. Luckily, cruises make it easy. In the main diningContinueContinue reading “How to Enjoy a Cruise with Your Toddler: A Complete Guide”
Ultimate Guide to Packing for a British Isles Cruise
A British Isles cruise….what a great way to explore the history, culture, and landscapes of Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Wales, and England. Sure, a land trip is fun but oh boy…it can be exhausting and confusing. Board your luxury ship, relax and enjoy arriving in new ports every day in style. This post contains affiliate links, if you click and buy a product, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Understanding the Weather Changing weather, varied excursions, and multiple currencies, knowing what to pack can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. The cruise season in the British Isles typically runs from April to October. While summer brings the mildest temperatures, the weather can still be unpredictable. It is not uncommon to experience sunshine, rain, and cool breezes all in one day. Spring (April–June): Cool temperatures (10-16°C / 50-60°F) with frequent showers. Summer (July–August): Milder (14-22°C / 57-72°F), though occasional rain and coastal winds should be expected. Autumn (September–October): Similar to spring—cooler temperatures and increased chances of rain. Packing Essentials Layering is the key. With variable weather, packing layers is essential. Lightweight, versatile clothing will allow you to adjust as temperatures change throughout the day. Lightweight, Waterproof Jacket – a must for sudden showers, especially in Scotland and Ireland. This is my favorite rain jacket. I love the striped lining, hood, rain protected zipper and length. It also comes in lots of colors. Another great option is a waterproof poncho . This one folds up into a small packet, is lightweight, has a front zipper and pockets and is available in several colors! 3-4 shirts to wear with jeans 1 pair capris or casual pants to wear onboard. 1 nice dress for formal nights 1 or 2 skirts and/or nice pants and shirts/sweaters to wear with them – choose colors that work well together to create more outfits and decrease the amount you are taking. Lighter luggage is always a win! 1 hooded sweatshirt or fleece jacket, 1 or 2 sweaters Comfortable Pants/Jeans or Leggings – These are essential for walking tours and casual sightseeing. I have found leggings to be the most comfortable for me. These are the ones I wear. 2 pair good walking shoes (waterproofed is a good idea) I use this waterproof spray on my shoes. Hint…wet shoes can be smelly. I use odor eliminators to help control it. You get enough for 3 pairs of shoes. They also work really well in your suitcase to remove odors. There are other designs available. It’s also smart to protect your clothes from dirty shoes with shoe bags. Socks and underwear (duh) Workout clothes – if you plan to hit the gym A bathing suit and coverup. The pools and hot tubs will be open….be sure to enjoy them. When going ashore, it is nice to have a good bag. I like to use a crossbody bag, Protect your valuables from pickpockets and thieves. This bag is also RFID protected. More and more passengers are using a this type of bag. It is easy to wear around your waist or as a crossbody. Thieves are everywhere. Protect your credit cards and passport by placing one of the RFID Blocking Card near them and you’re safe and ready to go. Most ships provide umbrellas but they tend to be large and difficult to carry. We always pack a compact umbrella, no matter where we are traveling. Ireland is famous for the occasional downpour. The glare off the deck will be very strong and even on overcast days, UV exposure can be high, especially near water. Good sunglasses are a necessity. The glare off boat can be strong and if your lucky enough to have sunny days, you will be glad you have sunscreen! A travel first-aid kit is a necessity. Pain killers (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.) and a few bandaids…easier (and cheaper) than going to the ship’s doctor. This is a great first aid kit for traveling. Magnetic chip clips to keep papers organized…cabin walls are metal, so magnets will work. Stonger magnetic hooks are very useful to hang up coats and hats. Keep the cabin organized! I have found packing cubes to be really helpful….they keep items organized in your luggage and you can easily transfer them to drawers when unpacking onboard. Compression packing cubes are also really helpful when packing bulkier items like jackets and sweaters. After sailing many times and finally having our luggage go missing due to luggage tags being torn off, we now use these reusable luggage tag holders. Amazon has holders for all cruise lines. These are for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Most stores are not providing free bags with purchase in an effort to reduce waste. I take reusable grocery bags. Useful at home too. Are you prone to motion sickness? These sea sick patches will make your cruise more enjoyable! AND….they are Captain Kate approved! These are the exact same ones she uses onboard, while flying and when in the car. Another good option is Bonine…it is the strongest over the counter medication available. Currency: What You Need to Know While credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the UK and Europe, having some local currency can be useful, especially in smaller shops, markets, or rural areas. United Kingdom (Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland): British Pound Sterling (£ GBP). Ireland: Euro (€ EUR). If your cruise includes both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, you will need both GBP and EUR. Some locations in Northern Ireland accept Euros, but it is best to check in advance. I recommend using an ATM onshore to obtain small amounts. We never get more than £20 or €20, as we find we use our credit cards most of the time. You can change currency onboard but an ATM onshore will give you the best exchange rate. Final Packing Tips A good portable phone charger is a must have item. Nothing is worse than having your phone die while traveling. I use this portable charger with a built in foldable USB-C connector for everyday use. The UK and Ireland use aContinueContinue reading “Ultimate Guide to Packing for a British Isles Cruise”
Extend Your Stay: Enjoy More Time Onboard Celebrity Cruises
It’s the end of the cruise….but you aren’t ready to leave. Do you have a late flight? Or checking into a hotel? In several European ports, Celebrity offers an “Extend Your Stay” program, which means you can store your luggage on board and relax by the pool. You’ll be able to use the WiFi, perhaps book a spa treatment, and enjoy a final, unhurried lunch on board. This program is available in: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy | Barcelona, Spain | Venice (Ravenna), Italy | Athens (Piraeus), Greece INCLUSIONS EXTEND YOUR STAY · Luggage Storage · Access to public areas including the pool deck · Access to Retreat Lounge/ Sun Deck Access for Retreat guests only · Spa with pre-booked services (Guest must book and pay for the services before debark day) · Access to Oceanview Café for Breakfast and Lunch · Lunch at Sushi on (ML/SL class) or Le Grand Bistro (EG class) for Retreat guests only · Premium Wi-Fi Package for the duration of the stay. · Zero Proof Package (Coffee, Soda drinks, Water) · Premium Drink Package for Retreat guests only You can remain onboard on average up to 90 mins before the ship departure. Pricing starting from $69 per person and $99 per person for Retreat guest. *Pricing and inclusions are subject to change and may change by ship. FAQ What is Extend Your Stay? Extend Your Stay is a paid service that provides guests, sailing in select ports in Europe, the opportunity on turnaround day to stay onboard longer, store their luggage, have access to the buffet, public areas and relax before traveling. What does the Extend Your Stay program include? · Luggage Storage · Access to Oceanview Café for Breakfast and Lunch · Access to public areas including the pool deck · Premium Wi-Fi Package for the duration of the stay · Spa with pre-booked services · Remain onboard on average up to 90 mins before · Zero Proof Package the ship departure.* What does the Extend Your Stay program include for guests in The Retreat? Luggage Storage · Spa with pre-booked services · Access to Retreat Lounge / Sun Deck Access, (Guest must book and pay for the services before debark day) public areas, including the pool deck. · Premium Wi-Fi Package for the duration of the stay. · Lunch at Sushi on Five (Millennium/Solstice series) · Premium Drink Package. or Le Grand Bistro (Edge series). · Remain onboard up to 90 mins before the ship departure.* In which debark ports is this program currently available? ROM – ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA), ITALY · BCN – BARCELONA, SPAIN · BLQ – VENICE (RAVENNA), ITALY · ATH – ATHENS (PIRAEUS), GREECE Can Extend Your Stay guests leave the ship and then return during Turnaround Day? No – once Extend Your Stay guests leave the ship they cannot return. Are credit card purchases the only option after closing of the voyage? No purchases are available after the closing of the voyage. How will Extend Your Stay charge be shown on the guest statement? The guest statement will show a charge for ‘Shore Excursions’. How will guests sign up for the Extend Your Stay onboard? All guests wishing to sign up will need to sign up at the Shore Excursions desk the Celebrity App or for Retreat guests at the Retreat Lounge/Michael’s Club. Is there a cutoff time to sign up? Yes, 48hrs prior to arrival to the destination port. What happens with the guests’ luggage? Extend Your Stay guests will be assigned specific luggage tags. Same process as other guests, they will need to leave their suitcases outside their stateroom between 7:00pm and 10pm. The luggage will be kept in the pier terminal till they come off the ship to pick it up when departing the ship. How will guests receive turnaround day instructions for Extend Your Stay? We provide a letter with all instructions and schedule an in-person Extend Your Stay briefing. When are Extend Your Stay guests required to vacate their Stateroom/Suite? All guests will need to vacate their stateroom and move to one of the public lounges onboard by 8:30am at the latest. Is transportation to the Airport included? Transfers to the airport are not available but can be arranged for an additional fee. Exception: Port of Ravenna does include transportation with a specific departure time to the airport Can I combine the Extend Your Stay and the Disembarkation transfer? Yes, you can but the last transfer from the ship to the airport may be several hours before the Extend Your Stay ends. We highly recommend you check with the Shore Excursion team for the departure time of the latest airport transfer available and plan accordingly. How does the team onboard know what type of package is included on my Extend Your Stay package? On debark day, you will be given a sea pass card that you will use to order your drinks and to identify yourself as part of the program. The team onboard is well versed on Extend Your Stay package inclusions. Will my Wi-Fi package continue to be active until I leave the ship? For Wi-Fi access, on debark day, the team onboard will provide you with a voucher for you to activate it. Instructions on how to do it will be shared on the Extend Your Stay sent 24hrs before the activity starts. What is the process for booking Spa appointments on the debarkation day? To make a reservation for a Spa appointment, please proceed directly to the Spa desk before the cruise ends and inform the Spa staff that you have an Extend Your Stay package. The Spa representative will assist in processing payment and confirming the booking. Alternatively, a Spa representative will be available during the Extend Your Stay briefing to assist with booking. Keep in mind that reservations cannot be made on the day of debarkation. What’s the latest I can stay inside my cabin on the departure day? Access to the room is until 8:30am on departureContinueContinue reading “Extend Your Stay: Enjoy More Time Onboard Celebrity Cruises”
Shine the Night: Ultimate Cruise Party Experience
Replacing White Night/Full Moon party in 2025 is the high-octane nightlife experience where the ship’s Resort Deck transforms into a radiant center stage with high-energy live performances, a prism light show, and DJ creating a pulsating dance floor to an illuminating playlist. Called Shine the Night, guests are invited to bring out their best metallic/sparkling attire to enjoy this open-air celebration under the moon and stars. Currently onboard all Edge class ships, Celebrity Reflection and being installed across the fleet in 2025. https://youtu.be/mTLOw8wDqx0?si=QRT5G4SjA6KMzAMc What happens during Shine the Night? Live performances: High-energy performances on the Resort Deck Light shows: Prism light show DJ: Creates a dance floor with an illuminating playlist Dance party: Guests dance under the stars Who can attend? Everyone on board can attend. What’s the dress code? Guests are encouraged to wear metallic or sparkling attire Stay up-to-date on all the Cruise News: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise and travel even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Do you have travel insurance for your next cruise? The best day to buy it is the day you book so get it now. Insubuy has policies for all travelers. Have you booked your excursions yet? Check out my recommended provider. Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise and travel even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies. It helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stay in business. Thanks for your support!
Xcel Dream Makers – Celebrity Cruises
Have you always wanted to be involved in the designing of a new ship….what the interior looks like, food and beverage menus, entertainment options? Well….here is your chance! Launching in November 2025, Celebrity Xcel is the newest addition to the Celebrity’s award-winning Edge® Series. Through Xcel ‘Dream Makers’, travelers will have the opportunity to test, vote on, and refine new experiences, ensuring the ship delivers a next-level holiday experience tailored to guests’ preferences. Celebrity Cruises is inviting vacationers worldwide to create their dream vacation experience on Celebrity Xcel® with Xcel ‘Dream MakersSM.’ Open to all who wish to join, this global community will test, try and vote on new experiences. Their selections will launch on Celebrity Xcel in November 2025 for vacationers to enjoy, further elevating the fifth ship in the cruise line’s award-winning Edge® Series into a class of its own. “We want to ensure our guests love our products and experiences, so involving them in the process to perfect Celebrity Xcel was a great way to achieve this,” shares Michael Scheiner, chief marketing and product officer of Celebrity Cruises. “Celebrity Cruises is known for ground-breaking innovation in ship design and experiences unlike any other at sea, when Xcel launches guests won’t have just found their happy place, they’ll have helped us build it.” In an industry first, Dream Makers will have the final say across key elements of the vacation experience to be offered on Celebrity Xcel when she sets sail. Through online polls and one-of-a-kind experiential in-person events, the public will perfect the ship’s design, culinary and entertainment offerings. Dream Makers will put their design, experiential and foodie skills to the test on Celebrity’s newest ship, making decisions across key spaces, including the ship’s seven, new, yet-to-be-revealed experiences. Dream Makers will make their mark on the Celebrity Xcel by: Choosing textiles, managing interior design elements and curating service offerings; Picking their favorite dishes and beverages, choosing table settings and shaping dining concepts; and Providing input on headline shows, curate props and costumes, select playlists and partake in selections to appoint pivotal entertainment positions onboard. With the help of Dream Makers, Celebrity Xcel will push the boundaries of leisure travel. The ship reached a major milestone on January 18, floating out of dry dock at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The float out ceremony celebrated the completion of the ship’s exterior, bringing Celebrity Xcel one step closer to welcoming guests. The innovative ship will also advance Royal Caribbean Group’s decades-long commitment to sustaining the planet with the first tri-fuel capable engine, representing an important steppingstone on the company’s journey to Destination Net Zero, its vision for net-zero emissions by 2050. Celebrity Xcel is sailing her inaugural season from Fort Lauderdale, offering seven-night itineraries alternating between the Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. In Summer 2026, Celebrity Xcel will set sail on her inaugural European season where guests can immerse themselves in the Mediterranean like never before on seven-to 11-night journeys out of Barcelona and Athens, including all new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal. Join Here! There will also be daily prizes and larger prizes awarded prior to the launch of Excel. The more you interact, the better your chances are to win something wonderful! Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much!
Explore Iconic Rivers with Celebrity River Cruises
NEW FLEET THAT WILL SAIL THE MOST ICONIC RIVERS BEGINNING 2027 Celebrity Cruises will usher in a new era in river cruising with Celebrity River Cruises, a premium river cruise vacation that will begin taking bookings this year. The brand has signed an initial order for 10 transformative ships that will take guests to historic cities on the world’s most iconic rivers, launching in Europe. Celebrity Cruises will bring the elevated design and sophistication of the Edge Series ocean ships to the river. When you combine that with the brand’s signature hospitality and unique itinerary offerings, Celebrity River Cruises will deliver unforgettable experiences – The Celebrity Way. “We’re thrilled to announce our entry into the river cruise market through our Celebrity Cruises premium travel brand. Our guests and travel partners should expect us to do what we do best – innovate and elevate the river cruise experience as we meet the growing demand for intimate, culturally enriching travel experiences,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “With about half of our guests having experienced or intending to vacation on a river cruise, we know they will enjoy Celebrity’s elevated offering on the river. By leveraging our valuable loyalty programs across our three brands, we will deepen customer engagement and further our ability to keep guests within our ecosystem of vacation offerings. We are the best in the world at delivering the vacation of a lifetime, and this is the latest example of how we are building the capabilities to deliver a lifetime of vacations.” Celebrity River Cruises is a natural extension of Celebrity’s premium offering that will bring its unique service-first approach to the river. Guests will get the keys to sail through the heart of culturally and historically significant cities, experience locally inspired cuisine and unique shore experiences – The Celebrity Way. With ships that will give guests 360 degrees of breathtaking views, every moment will be designed to immerse guests in the beauty of the journey. “Celebrity River Cruises will bring the quality and sophistication of our Edge Series ocean ships to the most iconic rivers, starting with Europe,” added Laura Hodges Bethge, President, Celebrity Cruises. “We’ve redefined travel on the ocean with our best-in-class hospitality, award-winning food and beverage experiences, and elevated design and style. We are thrilled to bring these experiences to the river and combine them with authentic, destination-rich itineraries that will give our guests an experience unlike any other.” By getting into river cruises, Celebrity wants to offer more culturally enriching travel experiences. Celebrity River Cruises will focus on offering premium experiences, local cuisine, interesting shore excursion opportunities, and 360-degree views of historic cities. Plus, the 10 new ships will incorporate design elements from Celebrity’s Edge Series ships. More information about Celebrity River Cruises, including booking opportunities, destinations, fleet size and ship details, excursions and more, will be announced in the coming months. Go to CelebrityCruises.com and sign up to receive information first and follow on social media @CelebrityCruises. Please join other cruisers at A Celebrity River Cruises Forum on Facebook. Updates will be shared there when available. BE SHARE THIS EXCITING NEW WAY TO RIVER WITH YOUR FRIENDS Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much!
Guide to Celebrity Cruises’ Persian Garden and Sea Thermal Suite
Soak away your cares. Relax and soothe your muscles after a day at the beach or exploring new ports. Aqua class guests enjoy unlimited access to these Adults-Only locations. If you’re not in AquaClass, you can purchase a day or week pass. Persian Garden The Persian Garden can be found on Millennium and Solstice class ships only. The facility features various steam rooms and saunas, a relaxation lounge with heated tile loungers and locker rooms. There is an age requirement of 16 or older and guests must wear a bathing suit at all times. Located inside the Spa, show your sea pass card to the spa services desk. Lockers are available for exchange with your sea pass card. Inside you will find an aromatic steam room featuring steam infused with pure plant essences. There is also an herbal sauna, with an average temperature of 140ºF with 60% humidity that provides a gentle and relaxing heated environment. The traditional Finnish sauna has a hot and dry cabin lined with aromatic Nordic cedar and is heated by a hidden stove. Persian Garden users can cool off after their sauna with a stimulating shower featuring six water jets, an overhead spray, fresh scent and cool blue fiber-optic light. There is also a tropical rain shower infused with exotic aromas. On Solstice-class ships, heated tile loungers face a wall of windows that provide scenic views and a pleasant place to read or relax. There is also a relaxation lounge with padded loungers and complimentary refreshments such as lemon-infused water and herbal tea. Heated Chairs – Persian Garden Deck 12 Forward Portside Celebrity Reflection – Celebrity Cruises On Millennium-class ships, the Persian Garden does not have windows but there is a fountain creates a soothing ambience. The design and layout varies by ship. Price Cruisers staying in Aqua Class staterooms automatically receive access to the Persian Garden. All other cruisers may purchase a Persian Garden pass at the spa. Prices vary according to the length of your cruise. Only a limited number of passes are available for each cruise, so it is best to purchase a pass on embarkation day to avoid disappointment. Passes can be used from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and are not transferable or refundable. A day pass for the Persian Garden on Celebrity Cruises generally starts around $25-$30 for a single day, but costs vary significantly by sailing, ship, and length, with longer cruise passes sometimes running $50+ or over $100 for a full week, often available for less pre-cruise (e.g., $115-$250 for 7 days) Captain’s Club members Elite, Elite Plus and Zenith members receive one time complimentary visit while the ship is in port. Ships The Persian Garden is found on the following Celebrity Cruises ships: Celebrity Constellation Celebrity Eclipse Celebrity Equinox Celebrity Infinity Celebrity Millennium Celebrity Reflection Celebrity Silhouette Celebrity Solstice Celebrity Summit Sea Thermal Suite At the heart of The Spa on Celebrity Edge series is the SEA Thermal Suite and eight distinct spaces. Complimentary for all Aqua class guests, this is a great place to relax before or after your treatments at The Spa or after a long day onshore. Celebrity has taken everything that made the Persian Garden so popular and elevated it to a whole new level of tranquility. Guests must be 18 years of age or older to use the SEA Thermal Suite. All guests must wear a bathing suit at all times. A day pass to Celebrity Cruises’ thermal suite (SEA Thermal Suite or Persian Garden) typically costs around $30 to $90 per person, but prices vary by ship class (Edge vs. older), sailing length, and if it’s purchased onboard or pre-cruise; full cruise passes for the entire sailing often range from $100-$200+ Hammam Combining the elements of water and earth, this is a modern take on the traditional Turkish bath. Adorned in sleek gorgeous tile mosaics, this quiet retreat invites you to loosen muscles with a body polish that will leave you glowing and relaxed. Crystalarium This is a beautiful refuge of natural stone walls and features a healing Amethyst crystal. The element of Earth emanates a luminous vibrancy while the crystal serves as the conduit for natural healing energy. Salt Room Sit down, relax and take a deep healing breath. The elements of water, earth and air are all present in this simulated salt cave environment which is believed to help treat a variety of respiratory and skin conditions. Steam Room Here you can soothe your senses where the elements of water and air mingle. Let the moist heat open up your airways, and feel refreshed as toxins seem to melt away from your body as you sweat. Infrared Sauna Room State-of-the-art technology heats the air to calm the body and relieve stress, releasing feel-good endorphins. The infrared lighting system offers many of the benefits of natural sunlight without the impact of ultraviolet light. Float Room Feel lighter than air as you swing into a meditative sleep, cocooned in floating basket chairs. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of the sea, keeping you connected to the water as you reach new heights of restfulness. Heated Tile Loungers This room offers panoramic views with heated tile loungers, making this space the perfect place to relax.. Lie down, stretch out and let the soothing warmth radiate through your body. Rainfall Water Therapy Room Let the element of water take center stage as simulated rain showers—ranging from warm to cool, from light drops to a waterfall—massage the body, invigorate the soul and wash away your worries. Price SEA Thermal Suite day and cruise passes are available for purchase. Prices vary depending on the length of your cruise. Guests can book while onboard at the Spa or on the App. Prices do not fluctuate between sea and port days. Captain’s Club members DO NOT receive complimentary entrance on any Edge class ship. Ships: Edge Edge Apex Ascent Beyond Excel Available discounts Classic Members: 0% Select Members: 10% Elite Members: 10% Elite Plus Members: 15% Zenith Members: 20% Final ThoughtsContinueContinue reading “Guide to Celebrity Cruises’ Persian Garden and Sea Thermal Suite”
Ultimate Guide to Dining on Celebrity Cruises
In this comprehensive guide to Celebrity Cruises dining options, discover the different dining options onboard, what to wear and the many possibilities for globally-inspired food available at the dozens of restaurants and cafes on each ship. Are meals included on Celebrity Cruises? Yes! Celebrity Cruises dining options include several complimentary venues. Head to the buffet-style Oceanview Cafe or enjoy hamburgers and hot dogs by the pool at Mast Grill for lunch. On Edge Series ships, you can dine in style at any of the four complimentary restaurants. Enjoy elevated classics at the Main Restaurant, new American cuisine at Cosmopolitan (on Celebrity Edge and Apex), flavors of the Mediterranean at Cyprus, or modern French cuisine at Normandie. The cuisine is inspired from the destinations Celebrity visits and is hand-crafted from the highest quality ingredients. How does dining work on Celebrity Cruises? Celebrity Cruises dining options were created to accommodate the different preferences and approaches to vacation and traveling. Some passengers like consistency in their day-to-day routine…even on vacation…while others prefer trying something new each evening. There three choices of dining based on your preferences: Celebrity Select Dining with an early or late seating time Anytime Dining Celebrity Select Dining Early or Late With Celebrity Select Dining Early or Late, you’ll have a designated time each evening for dinner, starting as early as 6pm or as late as 8:30pm. With Celebrity Select Dining Early, Late, you’ll be seated with the same people and get the same waitstaff each night. You’ll get to know your tablemates and the crew. It’s perfect for making new friends with similar interests and swapping travel stories over dinner. You can also request a table for just your party if you prefer dining alone. Celebrity Select Dining Anytime The other option, Celebrity Select Dining Anytime, is ideal for passengers who want a little more flexibility. You may want to stay at the pool for longer, lounge at the adults-only* Solarium, grab a before dinner drink at the martini bar or unwind in your stateroom after a full day in port before going out for dinner. With Celebrity Select Dining Anytime, you can choose your dining time anytime between 6pm and 9:30pm. Just arrive at the Main Dining when you are ready for dinner and you will be seated as quickly as possible. Celebrity Select Early, Late, and Anytime all feature the same great menus, there is no cost difference. Each evening will offer a different menu with a few items that remain available each evening. Note that only a certain number of guests can choose Celebrity Select Dining Anytime per sailing. Anytime Dining is available on a first-come, first-served basis. You can always speak with the Maitre’d to see if there is space available if you wish to change your dining. *Solarium kid’s hours available from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm on select itineraries – Antarctica, Alaska, and the Baltics. Is Celebrity Select Dining offered on all ships? Celebrity Select Dining is available on all Millennium, Solstice, and Edge series ships. Celebrity Select Dining on our Edge-series ships gives you the options to choose your dining time and designate which of the four Main Restaurants you want to visit. Celebrity Select Dining on Millennium and Solstice Class There are two main dining rooms on Millennium and Solstice class ships. On Millennium class, the main dining room is located aft on decks 4 and 5. Deck 5 is Select Dining Early or Late and Deck 4 is Select Dining Anytime. Millennium class ships are Millennium, Infinity, Summit and On Solstice class, the main dining room is also aft but deck 3 is Select Dining Early or Late and Deck 4 is Select Dining Anytime. Solstice class ships are Solstice, Equinox, Eclipse, Silhouette and Reflection Celebrity Select Dining on Edge Class Edge class ships offer not one but four complimentary main restaurants—Normandie, Tuscan, Cosmopolitan and Cyprus. Edge class ships are Edge, Apex, Ascent, Beyond and Excel. Each restaurant features the same outstanding menu that changes nightly, plus each venue offers its own ambience, along with a selection of exclusive, regionally inspired dishes and drinks. You can still choose Celebrity Select Early or Late seating for your dining times, which allows you to enjoy dinner at the same table with the same waiter every evening. You will be assigned one of the four main dining restaurants, while having the option to dine in the other three upon request. (This seating selection is not strictly enforced though, so you can go to whichever restaurant you want, whenever you want, unless you prefer to remain with the more traditional set dining time.) If Celebrity Select Dining Anytime, you can dine in any of the four restaurants each evening and enjoy a change of scenery. With Celebrity Select Dining, the choice of how you plan your evening meals is up to you. What is the dress code for dinner on Celebrity Cruises? Celebrity has moved away from formal wear for a more modern take on dressing up. No need to pack your suit and tie or ball gown unless that is something you enjoy doing. The crew loves seeing creative, stylish outfits onboard. For most evenings, the dress code is smart casual. Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the Celebrity Theatre. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans (without rips or tears) and stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip flops are not considered Smart Casual. Celebrity Dress Code If you choose to not follow the smart casual dress code, dining is available in the Oceanview Cafe each evening. Each itinerary features one to two “formal” nights that are now called Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress in your own way. Women should feel comfortable wearing:A cocktail dress, nice skirt, dressy pants or designer jeans with an elegant top. Men should feel comfortable wearing:Pants or designer jeans with a dress shirt, button-down shirt or sweaterSport coat/blazerContinueContinue reading “Ultimate Guide to Dining on Celebrity Cruises”