One of the highlights for me on an Eastern Caribbean cruise is visiting one of my all-time favorite ports—San Juan, Puerto Rico. While not every Eastern itinerary includes a stop here, I always recommend picking a cruise that does. And if you can find one that stays late into the…
It’s time for our first port of call on this 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise aboard the Carnival Celebration, and today we’re visiting Carnival’s private destination: Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, just outside the city of Puerto Plata. Amber Cove opened in October 2015 after Carnival Corporation invested around $85…
It’s a sea day aboard Carnival Celebration as we make our way to our first port of call: Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic. This sailing is a 7-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary that left Miami on Sunday. Along with Amber Cove, we’ll be visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico, and St.…
Hey there, Carnival Celebration — it’s been a hot minute, but I’m back! This ship holds a special place in my cruising history, as it’s the one I’ve sailed on quite a bit since her launch just a few years ago and has become a personal favorite. My last cruise…
Carnival Cruise Line’s announcement of the new Carnival Rewards program, set to replace the long-standing Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program in June 2026, has sparked a wave of reactions among loyal cruisers. The shift from a days-cruised-based loyalty system to one driven by spending has left many questioning how…
Carnival Cruise Line has announced a major change to its loyalty program with the introduction of Carnival Rewards, set to launch on June 1, 2026. This new program replaces the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program, which has been in place since 2012, and is designed to provide a more…
Royal Caribbean is giving three ships—Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas—a big refresh in 2026. They’re adding new features, dining spots, and activities while sailing to places like Alaska, Europe, and the Caribbean. If you’re thinking about a cruise on one of these…
For those planning a cruise, the term “guaranteed stateroom” often appears during the booking process, typically accompanied by a sometimes very attractive price point. As an experienced cruiser who has booked guaranteed staterooms multiple times—whether through casino offers, which almost always assign guaranteed rooms depending on the promotion, or for…
Carnival Cruise Line’s Celebration Key, set to open in July 2025, is a new exclusive destination located on the south side of Grand Bahama Island, just 20 miles east of Freeport. Spanning 65 acres, this resort is designed exclusively for Carnival guests, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and…
Halloween at sea? Yes, please! If you’ve never sailed with Carnival during October, you’re in for a fang-tastic treat. Every year, Carnival transforms its fleet into floating haunted houses filled with spooky fun, eerie décor, and festive activities the whole family (or your fun-loving friend group) can enjoy. We're talking…
