Scott’s Cruises: The Podcast!
Welcome aboard Scott’s Cruises: The Podcast! After 15 years of writing cruise reviews, sharing insider tips, and my experiences at sea, I’m taking the plunge into podcasting. It all started back in 1993 when I set sail on my very first cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Sovereign of the Seas—and let’s just say, I was instantly hooked. Since then, I’ve racked up over 100 cruises on everything from wallet-friendly fun ships to ultra-luxe floating palaces. And now, I’m bringing that love of cruising (and all the stories that come with it) straight to your ears.
Each week on Scott’s Cruises: The Podcast, I team up with my co-host John Hoiden for 30 minutes of cruise chat. We’re diving into the latest cruise news, dishing out helpful tips for first-timers and seasoned cruisers alike, and yes—sharing a few good laughs along the way. Whether you’re planning your next voyage or just dreaming about salt air and sunsets, come sail with us.
No sunscreen required.
Scott’s Cruises: The Podcast Episode Index
Episode 4: Cruise Line Loyalty Programs & The Carnival Rewards Debate
June 23, 2025: With the recent announcement of Carnival Cruise Line’s new loyalty program, Carnival Rewards, rolling out in 2026, there’s been a LOT of talk about the changes – good, bad, and definitely ugly. Scott and John sit down to discuss loyalty programs in general, the changes and who they’re going to impact the most, and how John Heald doesn’t earn nearly enough money to put up with all the complainers!
Episode 3: Pineapples, Dog Hair, Shared Tables & Guaranteed Staterooms
June 16, 2025: In this episode, we dive into guaranteed staterooms, the upside-down pineapple controversy, and Carnival’s new private destination, Celebration Key, opening July 2025! Learn why sharing a dinner table with strangers is a no-go, get the scoop on cruise ship size wars (Royal Caribbean vs. MSC vs. Disney), and laugh over a bizarre eBay listing for cruise ship dog hair.
Episode 2: Cruise Social Media
June 9, 2025: In this episode, we talk cruise social media. Yes, that vast wasteland of know-it-alls, mis-information, and the occasional post that leaves you scratching your head (tip: we give a good example at the end!). We also dig into the drinking age onboard cruises departing from the United States, travel agents, dress code in the main dining room, specialty dining and more.
Episode 1: The Premier
June 1, 2025: The premiere episode of Scott’s Cruises: The Podcast! After sharing the intimate details of who we are, John and I dive into the hot cruising topics of the week, including: the “influencer” who got banned from Carnival Cruise Line for smuggling (then not smuggling) booze onboard; what to expect when you’re cruising during hurricane season; the skinny on Real ID and cruising; and I spring three random questions on John!