The Reading Deck

Inspire your next great voyage and read our latest cruise news, insights, and immersive travel diaries. Curated by our team of cruise specialists, this is where our expertise meets your passion to explore the world by sea.

Editor's Picks

Wi-Fi at Sea: Speeds, Included Allowances & Multi-Device Costs

Wondering how much Wi-Fi costs at sea? Mainstream lines often charge per device, while luxury lines like Regent, Silversea and Seabourn include it. Discover how reliable cruise Wi-Fi is, how Starlink changes onboard speeds, how multi-device plans add up and the smartest ways to stay connected.

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Accessible luxury cruising: low-mobility suites & effortless excursions

Reduced mobility should never mean compromising on luxury. Our consultants toured accessible suites on Silversea, Explora, Azamara, Swan Hellenic, Seabourn and Cunard. Discover what makes a suite work, how dockside and tender ports differ, and how to plan seamless, step-free excursions ashore.

Azamara Forward: A New Era for the Fleet

Azamara Forward ushers in a new era for the entire fleet. Look for refreshed public spaces, upgraded suites, a new Chef’s Table, a reimagined Discoveries restaurant and Atlas Bar on all four ships, plus a Penthouse Suites Deck on Azamara Quest, all with drinks, laundry and gratuities included.

Galapagos in style: Celebrity Flora vs. ultra-luxury expedition vessels

Planning a Galapagos cruise? Celebrity Flora and Silver Origin both offer luxury for up to 100 guests, but their suites, service and inclusions differ. Compare infinite verandas with butler service, see what each fare covers and find out how smaller expedition vessels stack up before you book.

Understanding auto-gratuities & service charges across luxury lines

Wondering whether you have to pay gratuities on a cruise? Luxury lines like Regent and Silversea include them upfront, while Cunard and Princess add daily service charges. Discover where the money goes, what each line charges and how to tip with real confidence on your next voyage from the UK.

Oceania Vista uncovered: culinary excellence, suite design & onboard vibe

Our team toured and sailed on Oceania Vista, and the verdict was chic, elegant and uncrowded. Discover 12 restaurants with Toscana’s Versace plates, spacious suites with verandas and rainforest showers, the Concierge Lounge, Horizons and the Artist Loft, plus how she compares with other ships.

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Smooth sailing: Managing seasickness with cabin location & advanced stabilisers

Worried about seasickness on a luxury cruise? Modern stabilisers limit roll, and a midship cabin on a lower deck gives you the steadiest ride. Add acupressure bands or motion sickness glasses for extra comfort, and our Voyage Consultants will help you choose the right cabin for smooth sailing.

Effortless no-fly voyages: departing from Southampton

Skip the airport and sail from the UK. Our guide to no-fly cruises from Southampton and Dover covers which UK cruise lines depart from each port, all-inclusive luxury options, terminals, parking and transport, plus how to choose the departure port that makes your whole holiday feel effortless.

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Inside the MSC Yacht Club: Is the 'Ship-Within-a-Ship' Concept Worth It?

Is the MSC Yacht Club worth the extra cost? Our honest guide covers the private ship-within-a-ship sanctuary, 24-hour butler service, deluxe suites, dining and inclusions, plus a clear pricing breakdown showing how the fare compares with standard balcony extras and who this upgrade suits best.

Oceania Allura review: A welcome return to the finer things at sea

After a much-needed break, I spent seven nights aboard Oceania Allura, sailing from Trieste to Athens. From exceptional dining and genuinely warm service to beautifully designed spaces and a few surprises ashore, here's my first-hand review of Oceania Cruises' newest luxury ship.