Don’t miss out on these great deals for travel and cruising! Amazon Prime Days are October 7 & 8….don’t miss out on these great discounts! 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. Literine PocketPaks Cool Mint Breath Strips, Portable Pocket-Sized Oral Care Mouth Freshener 43% off BAGSMART Cord Organizer Travel Cable Bag, Compact Tech Electronic Organizer Travel Case, Essentials for Charger, Cable, Phone, Flash drive, Double Layers (Pink) 20% off Travel inspira Luggage Scale, Portable Digital Hanging Baggage Scale for Travel, Suitcase Weight Scale with Rubber Paint, 110 Pounds, Battery Included 40% off BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank 10,000mAh, Portable Wireless Charger, 20W Fast Charging External Battery Pack with USB C for Cell Phones 43% off EACHY Travel Makeup Bag,Large Capacity Cosmetic Bags for Women,Waterproof Portable Pouch Open Flat Toiletry Bag Make up Organizer with Divider and Handle 30% off Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder Supplement, Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides Travel Pack, 20 Individual Packets 20% off Coolife Luggage 4 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock 15% off Beats Studio Pro – Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones 51% off Large Travel Backpack Carry on Flight Approved Laptop Work Business Backpack 15% off Baggallini The New Classic Collection Uptown Bagg 44% off Multi Plug Outlet Splitter with USB, TESSAN 4 Electrical Outlet Extender Surge Protector with 3 USB Wall Charger Blocks 26% off Clear Makeup Bags, TSA Approved 6Pcs Cosmetic Makeup Bag Set Clear PVC with Zipper Handle Portable Travel Luggage Pouch Airport Airline Vacation. Other colors available. 20% off 10×25 Binoculars for Adults and Kids, Large View Compact Binoculars with Low Light Vision, Easy Focus Small Binocular 30% off 3 Packs Foldable Pail Bucket with Shovels & Mesh Bag, Collapsible Buckets Multi Purpose for Beach, Camping Gear, Beach Party, Fishing, and Fun Summer Activities (Yellow/Blue/Green) 33% off Magnetic Hooks for Cruise Cabins, 60Lbs Swivel Magnetic Hooks Heavy Duty, Cruise Ship Essentials 15% off Small Crossbody Bags for Women Belt Bag Fanny Pack with Adjustable Strap 40% off 16 Pack Silicone Bottle Cover,Travel Essential for Women Men,Cruise Ship Essentials 2025,Beach Vacation Essentials,Travel Size Toiletries,Airplane Travels Accessories Elastic Sleeves for Leak Proofing 33% off Waterproof Bag for Beach, Sandproof Fanny Packs for Women, Waterproof Pouch for Phone Passport Purse, Floating Dry Bags for Cruise Travel Water Park Boating Fishing Diving Surfing Kayaking Accessories 35% off 276PCS First Aid Kit Home Car Camping Hiking Emergency Supplies Small Compact Lovely Bag for School Outdoor, Basic Outdoor Essentials Survival Kit for Travel 20% off AI Neck Fan, 6 Speeds Adjustable Portable Personal Fan Rechargeable, 6000 mAh Battery Faster Cooling Wearable Fan, Ultra Quiet for Home, Office, Travel, Outdoor 38% off BAGAIL 4 Set/6 Set/8 Set Compression Packing Cubes Travel Accessories Expandable Packing Organizers (Half Mesh, 6-Black) Other colors available 32% off Repel Umbrella – Windproof Travel Umbrellas for Rain – Engineered to Withstand 85MPH Winds, <1lb – Lightweight, Durable, Compact, Waterproof, Auto Open Close, Fiberglass Frame Other colors available. 49% off 2 Pack Floating Waterproof Phone Pouch Up to 7″, IPX8 Underwater Phone Case Dry Bag for iPhone 16 15 14 13 12 11 Pro Max Xs Max XR X 8 7 Plus SE/Galaxy S24 S23 S22 Other colors avaiable 20% off TESSAN European Travel Plug Adapter USB C 3 Pack, US to Europe Plug Adaptor with 4 AC Outlets 3 USB Charging Ports, Type C Power Adapter for USA to EU Euro Spain France Iceland Italy Germany Greece 20% off Cruise On Royal Caribbean Cruise Luggage Tag Holder (4 Pack) – Fits All Carnival & Royal Caribbean Ships, Durable Travel ID Holders for 2025-2026 Cruises, Clear Waterproof Cruise Essentials 35% off Click this link to find even more Travel Prime Day Deals! 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 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 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 contains 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!
Tag Archives: cruises
Discover the Redesigned Celebrity Solstice for 2026 – Update with Progress Photos!!
Explore the full Celebrity Solstice refurbishment 2026, including new dining, entertainment, outdoor spaces, and upgraded staterooms debuting in March 2026.
Celebrity Xcel Unveils “Date Night, All Day Long” with Unique Dining and Entertainment
Celebrity announces “Date Night, All Day Long”, a new concept for romance, will be aboard Celebrity Xcel when she launches in November of 2025. From Celebrity’s first ever brunch offering at the new al fresco restaurant, Bora; to the most expansive entertainment offering across Celebrity’s fleet including new theatre and club shows, dance parties, and endless activities in between; passengers can look forward to endless ways to keep date night going all day long. Enjoy a boozy brunch at Bora. There will be a Bloody Mary bar, where guests will be able to customize their own Bloody Marys with over-the-top garnishes; a Mediterranean-inspired menu, and roving entertainers. 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. This new menu and dining venue will include beloved classics, like French toast and avocado on sourdough toast, shakshuka eggs with coriander and a croissant eggs benedict with lemon-scented salmon gravlax, ricotta spread and hollandaise sauce. In the evening, Bora will change into an intimate dinner venue beneath the stars, where you will enjoy chef-led table-side experiences. With panoramic ocean views and a vibrant setting, Bora will transport guests to the Mediterranean coast with a seafood-forward menu, with dishes like seared branzino and garlic aioli, fideos negros tostados with razor clams and carabinero prawns. A backdrop of Greek ballads and Italian love songs will round out an unforgettable evening. The romantic evening affairs will continue beyond Bora. Sing along to all your favorites at Celebrity’s very first Piano Bar. In The Club, two new interactive shows will transport guests to another era. Be amazed by Celebrity’s largest Theatre cast. Celebrity Xcel will sail with the most expansive entertainment offering to date with over 75 resident performers, with performances by world-class singers, dancers, parkour artists, and specialty performers. Experience enhanced state-of-the-art technology, including kinetic lighting, lasers, and a larger-than-life LED screen, designed to create a more immersive experience. New dance parties will bring everyone to the dance floor with destination inspired festivals, 80’s glitz and glam parties, an elevated country music night, and a romantic candlelit concert experience. Plus, an even more electric Shine the Night party returns, bringing all the energy to the pool deck one evening. You can help decide how your perfect “date night” will come to life onboard Celebrity Xcel by joining Xcel ‘Dream Makers’. Open to all who wish to join, Dream Makers is a global community of vacationers who will test, try and vote on new experiences they would like to see onboard Xcel to finalize the cruise line’s newest ship. Dream Makers will make key decisions across culinary, interior design and entertainment including deciding the first headline performer in the Theatre. To become a Dream Maker, visit Excel Dream Makers Celebrity Xcel is sailing her inaugural season from Fort Lauderdale in November 2025, 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 will sail the Mediterranean like never before on seven-to 11-night journeys out of Barcelona and Athens, including all new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal. It is exciting to learn about all the new restaurants, entertainment, décor, and so much more. Are you planning to sail on the new Excel when she launches? Please let us know your experiences when you do! 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, 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 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 contains 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!
Pregnancy and Cruising: Tips for Expectant Mothers
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”
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
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) The Ultimate British Isles Cruise Packing Guide (2026) This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! A British Isles cruise is one of the best ways to explore England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Ireland. Instead of constantly packing and unpacking between hotels, you’ll wake up in a new destination almost every day while enjoying all the comforts of your cruise ship.The biggest question most travelers have before they sail is simple: What should I pack?Unlike cruising the Caribbean or Mediterranean, the weather around the British Isles can be incredibly changeable. One day you could be enjoying sunshine and temperatures above 30°C (86°F), while the next brings cool sea breezes and a passing shower. Recent summer heatwaves have even pushed temperatures close to 40°C (104°F) in parts of England, with high humidity.The secret isn’t packing for cold weather. It’s packing for every kind of weather. Here’s everything I recommend taking on your British Isles cruise. 1. A Lightweight Waterproof Jacket If there’s one item you shouldn’t leave home without, it’s a Lightweight, Waterproof Jacket.Rain showers can appear almost without warning, especially in Scotland and Ireland, but they often pass just as quickly. A breathable rain jacket is much more useful than carrying a bulky coat.I love this waterproof jacket because it’s lightweight, packs easily into a suitcase, has a hood, waterproof zipper, and comes in a wide range of colors.If you’d rather travel even lighter, a compact waterproof poncho folds into a tiny pouch and is perfect for shore excursions. 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! 2. Comfortable Walking Shoes British Isles cruises involve a lot of walking. Many ports feature cobblestone streets, castles, historic city centers, uneven pavements, and hills.A comfortable pair of walking shoes is far more important than fancy footwear.If possible, choose water-resistant or waterproof shoes, especially if you’re visiting Scotland, Ireland, or the Highlands. Before your trip, I also recommend treating your shoes with a waterproof spray for extra protection. Once you’ve finished exploring for the day, odor eliminators are surprisingly useful for keeping both your shoes and suitcase fresh. Packing a set of shoe bags also helps keep muddy shoes away from clean clothes. 3. Dress in Layers Forget trying to predict the weather. On the same day you could need sunglasses, a sweater, and your rain jacket.I normally pack: T-shirts Long sleeve tops Two lightweight sweaters A fleece or hoodie Jeans or casual pants Leggings for travel days and walking tours Shorts or capris for warmer afternoons One nicer outfit for Evening Chic or specialty dining By mixing and matching neutral colors, you’ll create lots of outfits without overpacking.Packing cubes make this much easier by keeping everything organized throughout your cruise. If you’re packing bulky sweaters or jackets, compression packing cubes are even better. 4. Don’t Forget Swimwear Many people assume it will be too cold to swim on a British Isles cruise. Not necessarily.The pools and hot tubs remain open whenever weather permits, and on sunny sea days you’ll often find guests relaxing by the pool.Bring a swimsuit cover-up and sandals; you might be surprised how much you use them. 5. Protect Your Valuables Ashore European ports are generally very safe, but like any popular tourist destination, pickpocketing can happen.A good anti-theft crossbody bag is one of the smartest travel purchases you can make. RFID-blocking bags provide additional protection for passports and credit cards.Some travelers prefer a belt bag or sling bag, which has become increasingly popular on cruises.I also carry an RFID Blocking Card inside my wallet for additional peace of mind. 6. Prepare for Sunshine and Rain One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming they’ll only need rain gear. The sun can be surprisingly strong, especially while you’re relaxing on the open decks or spending long days sightseeing.We always pack a compact umbrella, no matter where we are traveling. Ireland is famous for the occasional downpour. And 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.And of course, whatever the weather, be sure you have sunscreen. 7. Cruise Cabin Essentials Cruise cabins don’t offer much storage, but a few inexpensive items make a huge difference. Magnetic chip clips for daily schedules and excursion tickets Stronger magnetic hooks are very useful to hang up coats and hats. Cruise luggage tag holders Reusable shopping bags for souvenirs and snacks The luggage tag holders deserve a special mention. After one cruise where our paper luggage tags were torn off during embarkation, we’ve never traveled without reusable holders again. 8. Stay Powered Up Between your phone, camera, smartwatch, Kindle, and other electronics, you’ll quickly run out of outlets.I never cruise without: A cruise-approved USB charging hub A UK plug adapter if I’m staying in a hotel before or after my cruise. I love these adapters by Hero A portable power bank for long sightseeing days Important: Cruise lines prohibit most extension cords and surge-protected power strips, so make sure you buy one that’s approved for cruise ships. 9. Pack a Small Medical Kit The ship’s medical center is excellent, but it’s much easier (and cheaper) to have a few basics with you.I always pack: travel first-aid kit Bandages Pain relievers Motion sickness medication Prescription medications If you’re prone to seasickness, don’t wait until you feel unwell. Captain Kate McCue has even shared that she uses these sea sick patches herself while cruising, flying, and traveling byContinueContinue reading “Ultimate Guide to Packing for a British Isles Cruise”
Extend Your Stay: Enjoy More Time Onboard Celebrity Cruises
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) Celebrity Cruises Extend Your Stay This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! One of the biggest downsides of any cruise vacation is that it has to end.Disembarkation day often means an early breakfast, leaving your stateroom by 8:30 a.m., and then waiting for hours if you have a late flight or can’t check into your hotel until the afternoon.But what if you didn’t have to rush off the ship?Celebrity Cruises’ Extend Your Stay program lets you enjoy your vacation for just a little longer. Instead of heading straight to the airport or sitting in a crowded terminal, you can relax onboard, enjoy lunch, use the pool, stay connected with Premium Wi-Fi, and make the most of your final day.If you’re sailing from select European ports, this little-known program could be one of the best upgrades you can book. What Is Celebrity Cruises’ Extend Your Stay Program? Extend Your Stay is an optional post-cruise experience available on select European sailings.After checking out of your stateroom on the morning of disembarkation, you’ll still be able to remain onboard for several more hours while your luggage is safely stored ashore. Instead of waiting at the airport or wandering the city with your bags, you can continue enjoying many of the ship’s facilities until approximately 90 minutes before the ship departs for its next cruise.It’s a great option if: Your flight isn’t until later in the day. Your hotel check-in isn’t until the afternoon. You simply aren’t ready for your vacation to end. You’d rather relax by the pool than sit in an airport lounge. Which Ports Offer Extend Your Stay? At the time of writing, Extend Your Stay is available on Celebrity Cruises sailings ending in: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Barcelona, Spain Venice (Ravenna), Italy Athens (Piraeus), Greece Availability may vary by sailing, and Celebrity may add additional ports in the future. What’s Included in Extend Your Stay? The standard Extend Your Stay package includes everything you need for a relaxing final day onboard.You’ll receive: Secure luggage storage Access to the ship’s public areas, including the pool deck Breakfast and lunch in the Oceanview Café Premium Wi-Fi for the duration of your stay The Zero Proof beverage package, including specialty coffees, soft drinks, bottled water, and non-alcoholic beverages Access to the spa if you’ve pre-booked treatments before disembarkation The opportunity to remain onboard until approximately 90 minutes before the ship departs Because your luggage has already been removed from the ship, you can spend your final hours completely hands-free. Extra Benefits for Retreat Guests Guests staying in The Retreat receive several additional perks with the Retreat version of Extend Your Stay.These include: Access to the Retreat Lounge and Retreat Sun Deck Premium Drink Package Lunch at Le Grand Bistro on Edge Series ships or Sushi on Five on Millennium and Solstice Series ships It’s an excellent way to continue enjoying the premium experience right up until it’s finally time to leave. How Much Does Extend Your Stay Cost? Prices start from approximately: $69 per person for the standard package $99 per person for Retreat guests Prices can vary by sailing and are always subject to change. How Do You Book Extend Your Stay? Unlike many cruise add-ons, Extend Your Stay is booked onboard rather than before your cruise.You can reserve your place: At the Shore Excursions Desk Through the Celebrity Cruises app At the Retreat Lounge if you’re staying in The Retreat Reservations close 48 hours before your cruise ends, so don’t leave it until the last minute. Important Things to Know Before Booking There are a few things to keep in mind.You’ll still need to vacate your stateroom by 8:30 a.m., just like every other guest. After that, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing in the ship’s public spaces.Once you leave the ship, you cannot return, so make sure you’re ready to disembark before stepping ashore.Your luggage follows the normal disembarkation process. You’ll place it outside your stateroom the evening before, and it’ll be waiting for you in the cruise terminal when you’re ready to leave.Airport transfers aren’t included with Extend Your Stay, although they may be available to purchase separately depending on your port. Is Extend Your Stay Worth It? For many travelers, absolutely.A late afternoon or evening flight can mean several hours with nothing to do after leaving the ship. Rather than sitting in an airport café or dragging your luggage around the city, Extend Your Stay lets you squeeze a little more value out of your vacation.You can enjoy one last leisurely breakfast, spend time by the pool, catch up on emails using Premium Wi-Fi, enjoy lunch onboard, or even book a relaxing spa treatment before heading home.If your schedule allows, it’s one of the easiest ways to make the transition from vacation mode to travel day a little less stressful. Frequently Asked Questions Can I leave the ship and come back later? No. Once you’ve disembarked, you can’t reboard. Do I keep my stateroom? No. All guests must vacate their stateroom by 8:30 a.m. Can I use the spa? Yes, but appointments must be booked and paid for before disembarkation day. Is transportation to the airport included? No. Airport transfers aren’t included, although they may be available for an additional charge depending on your port. Ravenna is currently the exception, where a designated airport transfer is included. Is Extend Your Stay available on every Celebrity cruise? No. It’s currently offered on select European itineraries ending in Rome (Civitavecchia), Barcelona, Venice (Ravenna), and Athens (Piraeus). No.ContinueContinue reading “Extend Your Stay: Enjoy More Time Onboard Celebrity Cruises”
Shine the Night: Ultimate Cruise Party Experience
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) Shine the Night: Ultimate cruise party experience This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! One of the newest additions to Celebrity Cruises’ onboard entertainment is Shine the Night, a vibrant outdoor celebration that combines live performances, music, spectacular lighting and plenty of dancing under the stars.If you’re sailing on a Celebrity cruise and have spotted “Shine the Night” in your daily planner, you may be wondering what it is, whether you need to dress up, and if it’s worth staying up for.The short answer? Absolutely.Here’s everything you need to know before you go. What is Shine the Night? Shine the Night is Celebrity Cruises’ signature outdoor deck party, designed to bring guests together for an unforgettable evening of music, entertainment and celebration.Replacing the former White Night or Full Moon Party on many sailings, the event transforms the Resort Deck into an open-air nightclub complete with DJs, professional performers, dazzling lighting effects and an energetic atmosphere.Unlike a traditional theatre production, Shine the Night is an interactive event. Guests are encouraged to dance, sing along and become part of the celebration rather than simply watching from the sidelines.The event debuted on Celebrity’s Edge Series ships before gradually being introduced across more of the fleet, including Celebrity Reflection, with additional ships receiving the experience as entertainment programmes continue to evolve. https://youtu.be/mTLOw8wDqx0?si=QRT5G4SjA6KMzAMc What happens during Shine the Night? While every sailing is a little different, the evening generally follows a similar format.As guests gather on the Resort Deck, music begins playing while bars serve drinks and the atmosphere builds. Once the party officially starts, the deck comes alive with: High-energy DJs Live singers and dancers A spectacular prism-inspired light show A lively dance party beneath the stars Interactive entertainment Rather than being a show with a beginning and end, Shine the Night is designed as a celebration that everyone can enjoy at their own pace. Some guests stay for the entire evening, while others stop by for a drink and soak up the atmosphere before heading elsewhere on the ship. Do you have to attend? Not at all. Like most onboard entertainment, Shine the Night is completely optional and included in the price of your cruise. If dancing isn’t your thing, you can simply enjoy one of the ship’s lounges, restaurants or bars instead. However, if you enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere, it’s one of Celebrity’s most popular evening events. What should I wear? One of the most common questions guests ask before their cruise is what to wear for Shine the Night.The theme centres around sparkle, shimmer and metallic colours, so you’ll see plenty of guests wearing: Sequinned dresses Metallic shirts or blouses Silver or gold accessories Glitter trainers Sparkly jackets Don’t worry if you don’t own anything glittery.The themed dress is completely optional, and many guests simply wear smart casual evening clothes while enjoying the party. Celebrity’s overall evening dress code remains Smart Casual, with designated Evening Chic nights offering an opportunity to dress up even more if you wish. Which Celebrity ships have Shine the Night? Shine the Night first launched aboard Celebrity’s innovative Edge Series ships and has since expanded to other vessels.You’ll commonly find it on: Celebrity Edge Celebrity Apex Celebrity Beyond Celebrity Ascent Celebrity Xcel Celebrity Reflection Celebrity has continued introducing the event across additional ships where suitable, although entertainment schedules can vary depending on the itinerary, weather and operational requirements. Outdoor deck parties may also be adjusted or moved if weather conditions aren’t suitable. Join the Fun 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 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAY-bnPox6c The Retreat Experience on Celebrity Cruises: Pros and Cons June 16, 2026 Uncategorized Unlock Power Up Points with Celebrity Cruises in Europe May 1, 2026 Cruise, Europe Three Days in London: Must-See Landmarks and Hidden Gems April 26, 2026 Europe, United Kingdom Smart Casual and Evening Chic: Cruise Dressing Made Easy April 15, 2026 Cruise, Packing & Planning Unlock Exclusive Perks with Royal One and Royal One Plus Cards March 31, 2026 Cruise Celebrity River Cruises Unveils New Shore Experience Program March 26, 2026 Cruise, Europe Join The Voyage One thoughtful email a month with practical cruise advice, packing ideas, and favourite finds. Email Subscribe You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again. WHERE TO NEXT? Choose Your Path Cruise Cabin choices, port reviews, and honest comparisons across cruise lines Explore → Disney Deluxe resorts, concierge, and where to spend for the best experiences Explore → Planning What to bring, what’s worth investing in, and how to travel comfortably Explore → Travel and cruise blogger – I love sharing our travels and the many tricks I’ve learned along the way. So buckle in and let’s get out there! Facebook-f Instagram Youtube About Blogs Cruise Disney Planning & Packing
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!