Recent content by Sunny Shores

The Caribbean remains the ultimate cruise playground, offering everything from pristine beaches to vibrant culture across dozens of stunning islands. With over 40 cruises under my belt, I've sailed virtually every Caribbean route on ships ranging from intimate vessels to massive floating cities...

You've booked that perfect seven-day Caribbean cruise for September, only to watch a tropical storm form three days before departure. Sound familiar? After 40+ cruises through hurricane season, I've learned that successful Caribbean cruising from June through November isn't about avoiding...

Small ship cruising with included shore excursions represents one of cruising's best-kept secrets. While mainstream cruisers debate beverage packages on 5,000-passenger ships, savvy travelers are discovering that smaller vessels with all-inclusive excursions often deliver better value...

When you're ready to experience Alaska in absolute style, a luxury cruise from Vancouver offers something truly extraordinary. These premium sailings combine the sophistication of world-class ships with the raw beauty of the Last Frontier, creating an experience that's both refined and wild...

If you're coming from traditional cruise lines, Virgin Voyages' approach to gratuities might surprise you. The adults-only atmosphere creates a completely different service dynamic, and understanding how tipping works here can save you money and awkward moments. After sailing on the Scarlet Lady...

When you're choosing a Celebrity cruise, the ship class matters more than most people realize. I've sailed all three major Celebrity classes multiple times, and trust me – each has a distinct personality that can make or break your vacation. Let me break down exactly what you're getting with...

After sailing on 12 different Princess ships over the past few years, I've eaten my way through virtually every specialty restaurant and main dining room they offer. The truth? Not all Princess ships are created equal when it comes to food quality, and some specialty restaurants are absolute...

You're staring at Disney Cruise Line's website, trying to decode what feels like a foreign language of cabin categories. Standard Oceanview? Deluxe Family Oceanview with Navigator's Verandah? Concierge Family Oceanview with Verandah? I've sailed Disney 12 times across all their ships, and I'm...

Let me break down MSC's cabin categories in a way that actually makes sense — because their naming system can be more confusing than trying to find gelato at 2 AM on deck 15. After sailing on 12 different MSC ships, I've stayed in everything from interior cabins on MSC Magnifica to the Yacht...

If you're torn between Norwegian's Breakaway, Getaway, or Epic, you're not alone. I've sailed all three ships multiple times, and each has a distinct personality that appeals to different types of cruisers. Let me break down the real differences so you can choose the one that matches your cruise...

I've sailed both of Carnival's Excel-class giants multiple times, and the question I get asked most is simple: which one should you book? After spending weeks aboard both Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras in 2026, I can tell you the answer isn't as straightforward as you'd think. These sister...

If you're used to packing for family cruises with formal nights and kids running around in swim diapers, Virgin Voyages is going to feel like stepping into a parallel universe. After sailing on the Scarlet Lady twice and the Valiant Lady once in 2026, I can tell you that Virgin's "no kids"...

Luxury cruising has evolved dramatically in 2026, offering everything from intimate ultra-luxury ships with 200 guests to premium suite experiences on larger vessels. Whether you're considering your first luxury cruise or upgrading from mainstream lines, understanding the different tiers of...

Looking for the perfect romantic cruise to celebrate your love? After sailing on over 40 cruises with my husband, I've learned what truly makes a cruise magical for couples. It's not just about the destination — it's about finding the right ship, the right atmosphere, and those special touches...

European river cruises offer an intimate way to experience the continent's most historic cities and stunning landscapes. Unlike ocean cruises, these floating hotels bring you directly into city centers, where you can literally walk off the ship into medieval squares and world-famous landmarks...