The next port of call on this 7-day Western Caribbean cruise is Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam arrived in port this morning at 8 a.m., on schedule. When cruising Jamaica, there are two possible locations you could visit: Falmouth or Ocho Rios. All the times I’ve…

After our unexpected day at sea yesterday, Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam has arrived at her first port of call for this 7-day western Caribbean cruise, Georgetown, Grand Cayman. Since we skipped Costa Maya, Mexico yesterday due to sea conditions, our original 11am arrival time in Grand Cayman was moved…

I’m now three days into this 7-day Western Caribbean cruise on the beautiful Holland America Line Nieuw Amsterdam, and as I mentioned in yesterday’s report, we had some rough seas that made their appearance late in the day on Monday. As we sailed to our first port of call, Costa…

Carnival Cruise Line passengers have always had certain expectations—endless entertainment, relaxing vibes, and food options around the clock. Among the most beloved traditions on board? Grabbing a fresh, made-to-order slice of New York-style pizza at Pizza Pirate or Pizzeria del Capitano at 3:30 in the morning after a night of…

We’re sailing towards our first port of call on this 7-day Western Caribbean cruise on the beautiful Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam, and the day is being spent at sea. As I mentioned in yesterday’s report, Holland America Line ships, except for the Rotterdam, carry far fewer passengers than the mega…

Fresh off a week onboard Carnival Celebration, I’m back at sea, this time cruising on Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam, a ship I sailed on back in 2010 during her inaugural Caribbean season. Part of Holland America Line’s Signature Class, she’s a mid-sized ship that blends modern comfort with the…

There’s nothing like the excitement of booking a cruise and planning the perfect getaway, with ports of call that include everything from sun-drenched beaches to bustling city streets. But what happens when that carefully planned itinerary gets tossed out the window? Imagine the surprise when you discover that the dreamy…

MSC Cruises is heading to Alaska for the first time ever, and they’re bringing along their signature blend of European charm and American comforts. Starting on May 11, 2026, MSC Poesia will homeport in Seattle and kick off her Alaskan adventures, giving travelers a fresh way to explore one of…

MSC Cruises just announced a refresh to their loyalty program, the MSC Voyagers Club, adding exciting new perks for loyal cruisers. From a shiny new Blue Diamond tier to an extended membership validity, MSC is making it easier than ever to cruise with perks—and making sure those benefits stick around…

It’s the final day onboard the Carnival Celebration as we head back to Miami, putting an end to this latest adventure as we sailed through the western Caribbean. On this cruise, we made stops at Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico, as well as Roatan, Honduras (Mahogany Bay). With it being…