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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
Explora Journeys Announces Plans for River Cruises
Explora Journeys has announced plans to enter the river cruise market after signing a Letter of Intent for new luxury river ships. The brand plans to bring its Ocean State of Mind philosophy to Europe’s waterways, with sales expected to open in 2027.
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Silversea's new suite categories 2027: what's changing for 2027
Silversea is simplifying its 17 suites into four clear categories: Oceanview, Veranda, Residence, and Villa. From 2027, Residence and Villa guests gain new perks like early spa and dining reservations, private consultations, and exclusive Signature Experiences, alongside all the usual all-inclusive comforts.
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South Africa and Cape Town Cruises
Compare South Africa and Cape Town cruises with Cunard, Seabourn and Silversea. Discover how their itineraries, onboard experiences and inclusions differ, from grand voyages and world cruise segments to dedicated Africa sailings, and find the right option for your next adventure.
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Which cruise lines operate from Dover in 2027?
Discover cruises from Dover in 2027, including the cruise lines sailing from this convenient UK port and destinations across Norway, Iceland, the Baltic, Mediterranean and beyond. Find out about popular routes, parking, transport links and everything you need to plan your no-fly cruise.
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Best cruises departing from Auckland 2027
Discover the best cruises departing from Auckland in 2027, from New Zealand’s spectacular fjords and coastal highlights to Australia and the South Pacific. Explore top luxury cruise lines, popular routes and practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable voyage from Auckland.
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10 reasons to cruise with Oceania
Discover 10 reasons to cruise with Oceania, from The Finest Cuisine at Sea® and included speciality dining to intimate ships, destination-rich itineraries and relaxed elegance. Find out what makes Oceania Cruises a rewarding choice for travellers looking to explore the world in comfort.
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Dom Pérignon Experience Aboard Oceania Vista: Our Review
Step inside the exclusive Dom Pérignon Experience aboard Oceania Vista. From six beautifully crafted courses and rare Champagne pairings to the intimate setting of Privée, discover what makes this unique culinary experience at sea so memorable and whether it is worth the price.
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The best cruise lines for seniors in 2027: accessibility, ease, and elegance
Discover the best cruise lines for seniors in 2027. Holland America, Celebrity, Silversea, and Cunard excel for accessibility, comfort, and elegance. This guide covers medical support onboard, accessible cabin features, booking tips for seniors, and how to find your perfect ship for 2027.
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Cunard Cruise Ship Wedding Packages
Cunard is one of the only cruise lines that can legally marry couples at sea. This guide covers wedding packages aboard Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Anne: from inclusions to pricing (from £3,600 plus £700 Marriage Licence fee) and booking tips.
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Best 3-Night Christmas Market Cruises
Discover the best 3-night Christmas market cruises from UK ports. Visit Bruges, Amsterdam, and Hamburg markets aboard Cunard, Fred. Olsen, and P&O. Experience festive onboard entertainment, gala dining, and get expert booking guidance from The Cruise Line's Voyage Consultants.
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Latest Blog Posts
Explora Journeys Booking Guide
May 2026
When should you book Explora Journeys for 2026/2027? As early as possible - prices never decrease closer to departure. This guide covers the best time to book, how Explora compares to Silversea, which ship to choose, MSC ownership, and how to manage your booking through the My Explora portal.
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Regent Seven Seas Luxury Cruise Comparison
May 2026
Are Regent cruises worth the money? We break down the true cost of ultra-luxury, comparing Regent vs Silversea for 2026. Discover what's included in the fare - unlimited shore excursions, business class flights, premium beverages - and whether the upfront cost delivers genuine value for your voyage.
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Regent Seven Seas Itineraries & Excursions
May 2026
Regent Seven Seas is the only ultra-luxury line to include unlimited shore excursions in every port. We explore the 2026 Grandeur Mediterranean season, classic Voyager routes, the 140-night 2027 World Cruise aboard Mariner, and how to navigate Regent Choice premium excursions for exclusive experiences.
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Windstar Star Pride Review: Five Days from London Bridge to St. Malo
May 2026
Sailing under Tower Bridge at night, five days aboard Windstar's Star Pride, and a lychee cocktail I am still thinking about. From Suite 535 to St. Malo and back again, here is an honest account of what this yacht is really like.
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Explora Dining & Restaurant Guide
May 2026
Six restaurants, all included, each with its own identity. From Anthology's tasting menus to Sakura and Fil Rouge, here is everything you need to know about dining on Explora Journeys and what your fare actually covers.
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Explora Journeys Suite Guide
May 2026
Every Explora Journeys suite has a private terrace and ocean views, but not all categories are equal. From the Ocean Terrace to the Owner's Residence, here is how to choose the right suite and deck position before you book.
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Regent Seven Seas Dining Guide
May 2026
Every restaurant on Regent Seven Seas is included in your fare, from Compass Rose to Prime 7 and Pacific Rim. Here is a complete guide to the dining venues, what each one offers, and how to make the most of every meal onboard.
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Regent Seven Seas Suites & Deck Plans
May 2026
Not all Regent suites are equal, and not all deck positions are created the same. From the intimate Navigator to the palatial Splendor and Grandeur, here is how to choose the right suite and cabin location before you book.
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Crystal Cruises: Crystal Serenity Review May 2026
May 2026
Four nights aboard Crystal Serenity through Patmos, Bodrum and Heraklion. The food was extraordinary, the ship quieter than anything at this size should be, and the hardest part was getting back off. Here is Lee's honest account from May 2026.
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Explora Journeys Cruise Dress Code
May 2026
Explora Journeys has no formal nights and no black tie requirement. But relaxed resort chic still means making an effort. From what to pack for a Mediterranean sailing to what the ship provides, here is the complete packing and dress code guide.
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What is Included in a Regent Cruise
May 2026
Regent Seven Seas is the most all-inclusive line at sea, but what does that actually mean in practice? From the casino and spa to enrichment talks and Seven Seas Grandeur's entertainment programme, here is what your fare genuinely covers.
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Explora Journeys Wellness & Entertainment
May 2026
From the Himalayan salt room and three outdoor pools to intimate live music and afternoon enrichment talks, life between the ports on Explora Journeys is genuinely well considered. Here is everything included in the wellness and entertainment offer onboard.
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Regent Cruise Dress Code Guide
May 2026
Regent Seven Seas has one dress code rule that matters above all others: the 6pm transition. From elegant casual evenings to formal optional nights and what to pack for every itinerary, here is everything you need in your Regent wardrobe.
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AmaWaterways: AmaMora Review May 2026
May 2026
boarded AmaMora in Budapest with a lot of questions about river cruising. Seven nights along the Upper Danube later, I had my answers. Here is an honest account of the ship, the food, the almost all-inclusive model, and why AmaWaterways genuinely stands out.
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Danube River Cruise Review: Why the Danube Is the Perfect Introduction to River Cruising
May 2026
Seven nights on AmaMora from Budapest to Vilshofen. Grand capital cities, vineyard-covered valleys, a bike ride through the Wachau, and an Oktoberfest party on the dock. Here is why the Danube is the perfect introduction to river cruising.
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Ponant Le Bellot Review: A Ship Visit on the Thames
May 2026
We boarded Ponant's Le Bellot on the Thames, champagne in hand, and spent the day exploring every corner. From the jaw-dropping Owner's Suite to the extraordinary Blue Eye lounge two metres below sea level, here is our honest first look at this stunning ship
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Cunard 2026/27 Fare Guide
May 2026
Booking a Cunard world cruise for 2026 or 2027? Understanding the difference between Early Saver and Cunard Fare is crucial. We break down what each includes, current benefits, flexible sector options, Christmas sailings, and even how to bring your pet aboard Queen Mary 2's Transatlantic Kennels.
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Cunard Cruises Southampton 2026 & 2027
May 2026
No flights, no luggage restrictions, no airport queues. Cunard from Southampton is one of the best ways to cruise from the UK. Here is which ships sail, what the terminals are like, how parking works, and what is on in 2026 and 2027.
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Oceania Health & Safety Guide
May 2026
Oceania Cruises pairs a low 1.6:1 guest-to-crew ratio with medical-grade HEPA filtration, onboard doctors, and wheelchair-accessible staterooms to deliver one of cruising's most considered health and safety experiences. Ideal for travellers with mobility needs or specific medical requirements.
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Cunard Queen Anne: Decks & Liverpool
April 2026
Queen Anne launched in May 2024 as Cunard's most significant new ship in over a decade, carrying 3,000 guests across 13 decks. She holds a particularly close connection to Liverpool, where she was officially named in June 2024. This guide covers her capacity, deck layout, key spaces, and 2026 itineraries.
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