CruiseTipsTV Unplugged - Cruise Tips and More

CruiseTipsTV brings you cruise tips, tactics, and strategies to help you make every cruise your dream cruise. Created in 2013, CruiseTipsTV has over 11 million views at YouTube.com/CruiseTipsTV and was named one of Porthole Cruise Magazine's "10 Travel Influencers Changing How We Vacation"

How To Pack For A Cruise In 10 Easy Steps

Today we are talking about packing for your cruise. We are going to break the packing process down into 10 easy steps. You'll get some structure and ideas on how to keep the stress out of packing for a cruise. Download our shore day bag checklist, and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

09-07
28:05

Should You Be Loyal To Royal?

Today, we're continuing our series designed to help you choose a cruise line. This week, we're putting the spotlight on Royal Caribbean. We asked our community WHY they chose to cruise with Royal Caribbean, and here are 10 things they had to say about what keeps them "loyal to Royal". Download our shore day bag checklist, and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

07-20
26:47

Cruising in 2025: What We Got Right, What Surprised Us, What Missed the Mark

As 2025 comes to a close, we're taking an honest look back at Cruising in 2025: What We Got Right, What Surprised Us, What Missed the Mark at the year in cruising—what we got right, what genuinely surprised us, and what didn't quite live up to the hype. In this Unplugged episode, we talk through the trends we accurately predicted, the changes we didn't see coming, and the cruise lines that quietly over-delivered when no one was looking. We also dig into the ideas that sounded great on paper but fell short in real life, and how our own cruising habits, expectations, and mindset shifted over the past year.  We wrap things up by looking ahead to 2026—what we're excited about, what we're cautiously optimistic about, and what we're hoping cruise lines continue to get right. No hot takes for the sake of hot takes—just thoughtful reflection from a year at sea and where we see cruising heading next. Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

12-27
47:15

Listener Q&A: Alaska Splurges, Cruising with Toddlers, Japan Itineraries & Galveston Homeports

It's time for another listener Q&A! This week we're covering a wide range of cruise questions—from the best Alaska splurges (glacier treks vs. flightseeing) to practical tips for cruising with toddlers, including diapers, strollers, and mealtime strategies. We also dive into Japan cruise planning (why a roundtrip Yokohama sailing can be a game-changer), what's happening in the Galveston cruise market, smart Princess Cruises tips, and even cruise-friendly skincare essentials. If you've got cruise questions, chances are they're answered in this episode. Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

12-19
46:47

Celebrity Xcel Review: First Impressions with Sometimes Sailing

In this episode, we welcome Dan and Mikkel of Sometimes Sailing to break down their experience onboard Celebrity Xcel. From embarkation impressions to favorite spaces, dining highlights, surprises, and tips for future guests, this conversation offers a fresh look at Celebrity's newest ship. Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

12-10
59:32

Your Cruise Questions Answered: Miami Hotels, Spa Manners & Internet Real Talk

In this listener Q&A episode, we answer your top cruise questions, from gym and spa etiquette onboard—what's helpful and what's not—to our favorite pre-cruise hotels in Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Plus, we give the honest truth about cruise ship internet and how to make it work for you. Practical tips, insider insight, and real talk from the CruiseTipsTV community! Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

12-03
40:34

Norwegian Bliss (Latitudes Cruise) Review & What's Coming with Norwegian Luna

Join us as we recap our incredible voyage aboard Norwegian Bliss during the Latitudes Rewards Members Cruise—a sailing packed with loyal guests, unique experiences, and tons of fun. We're sharing what it was like onboard, how to book next year's, and what activities NCL did for the Latitudes guests! We also dive into a BIG entertainment announcement on Norwegian Luna, Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, arriving soon. If you love Norwegian, cruising, or just want the inside scoop on Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Luna, this episode is for you. Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

11-26
38:35

NCL Returns to Free at Sea + Amtrak Adventures with Wendy!

This week, Sheri sits down with Wendy, her travel agent partner at CruiseTipsTV, to chat about Norwegian Cruise Line's switch back to Free at Sea — what it means for cruisers — plus a fun dive into the world of Amtrak travel. Whether you love the sea or the rails, this episode is full of travel inspo and insider insight! Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

11-07
53:22

No Sea Days! Our day by day NCL Spirit Japan Trip Report

In this episode, we share what we did in each port on our Norwegian Spirit Cruise to Japan. From spending our wedding anniversary in Hiroshima to the extreme heat viewing Mt Fuji, we saw and did a LOT on this once in a lifetime cruise to Japan! Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

10-30
42:40

Inside the Magic of Disney Cruising with DCL Duo

Ever wondered what it's really like to cruise with Disney — and how to make the most of it? In this episode of CruiseTipsTV Unplugged, Sheri sits down with Sam and Brian from DCL Duo for a fun, relaxed conversation all about their love for Disney Cruise Line. They share stories from their latest sailings, chat about how DCL Duo got started, and hear about their latest cruise to Alaska. You'll also hear their best tips for planning a Disney cruise, plus a rapid-fire round filled with cruise favorites, dream destinations, and a few surprises! Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

10-23
57:04

Inside Royal Caribbean: Richard Fain on Delivering the Wow

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Royal Caribbean Group's Chairman, Richard Fain, as he reveals the secrets behind the company's culture of innovation and what it really takes to redefine the modern vacation. Plus, Richard shares stories and lessons from his new book, Delivering the Wow. Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

10-14
34:54

Our Japan Cruise Almost Didn't Happen

This week on the podcast, we talk about the cruise(s) that almost didn't happen. Our flight to our epic cruise got CANCELLED as we were driving to the airport, and we'll share what happened next, how it's been going on our cruise adventure in Japan, and what we've been up to in the ports of Keelung, Taiwan, and the Southern Islands of Japan. We'll also share cruise #2, with zero sea days and a pretty packed schedule! Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

09-17
44:16

Time for a change?

This week on the podcast, we tackle a question from our listeners who have been cruising with the same line for 30 years. What lines should they try and what will be our personal recommendations? Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

08-27
40:24

We answer your cruise questions

This week on the podcast, we're answering questions from our Facebook Group. Caribbean's cruise excursions, Alaska seafood, travel insurance and lots lots more! Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

08-20
34:03

Unexpected FLIGHT Issues That Can Ruin Your Cruise Vacation

Unexpected FLIGHT Issues That Can Ruin Your Cruise Vacation (And How to Handle Them) Part 3 in our series! These air travel scenarios cover the most common flight-related issues that can impact cruise vacations, and how to STOP them (when possible).  Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

08-06
35:05

Cruising from Southampton & Titanic History of Cobh

If you're looking to explore the UK and Ireland without having to fly to tons of different cities, cruising from Southampton could be for you! Today, I'm joined by Ronan Ryan from Explore Cruise Repeat. Ronan hosts the port2port podcast and has visited 41 countries and spent 71 days at sea! We'll share the top 5 cruises from Southampton, cruises that visit Cobh (often referred to as Cork) and what to do on your port stop in Cobh! Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

07-23
49:30

Travel Insurance Basics & Pitfalls to Avoid

Worried about insuring your next trip? Ben's Big Deal is here to demystify travel insurance! Join us as Ben breaks down everything you need to know: when to buy, essential terminology like trip delay and CFAR (Cancel For Any Reason), and how factors such as cost, age, and even your state of residence affect your coverage. We'll tackle common pitfalls like overspending or undercovering, and discuss why relying solely on your credit card's travel protection might leave you exposed. Plus, find out when an annual policy makes the most sense for your travel habits. Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

07-16
47:43

His & Hers Prime Day Picks

Amazon's Prime Day is HERE, and we've rounded up our top picks for the big sale period with a "his and hers" twist. From luggage to tech and travel must-haves, these deals are perfect for your next adventure. Shop all the deals here: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/PrimeDay2025Ideas Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

07-09
36:27

Controversy Over Carnival's Loyalty Rewards Program

We'll unpack why Carnival decided to overhaul its long-standing VIFP loyalty program, moving from a "sea days" model to a spend-based, expiring status system. What were they hoping to achieve, and why has this shift sparked such widespread outrage among their most devoted cruisers? From concerns about lifetime status being eliminated to the perceived devaluation of years of loyalty, we'll explore the emotional and practical impact on the Carnival faithful. Finally, we'll brainstorm some potential solutions and compromises that could help Carnival mend fences with its loyal fan base and navigate this choppy PR sea. Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

07-01
38:40

15 Unexpected Things That Can Ruin Your Cruise Vacation Pt. 2

This week on the podcast we continue our segment on how to prevent unexpected mishaps that can ruin your cruise. From cabin issues to tech troubles, it's best to know in advance how to deal with difficult situations as they come up. Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

06-18
53:06

Jorge Ramos

i really like this im going from Miami fl to Seattle in September

05-27 Reply

Melissa Barley

awesome podcast! the CCTV team is so easy to listen to, and has great cruising tips.

06-11 Reply

Bonnie Busenitz

Great podcast! I really enjoy listening!

04-17 Reply

Camille Castorina

Loved this.

03-10 Reply

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