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Ship Feature Articles

How to Solve Your Cruise Problems
Passengers who address shipboard problems like a cruise industry insider are likely to get better results.  Go>
7-25-08
 
2008 TransAtlantic Fall Cruise Bargains
Five transatlantic cruises from less than $800 per person sail from Europe to the Americas this fall.  Go>
7-23-08
 
Delta Queen: The Fight Continues
Minnesota Congressman James Oberstar -- caught in a lie -- by Fox News in a story about the Delta Queen.  Go>
7-21-08
 
Cruise Ship Art Auction Controversy
Art auctions on cruise ships have become controversial for a number of reasons -- caveat emptor, buying art is risky and expensive.  Go>
7-18-08
 
A Teen View of Oasis of the Seas
Our teen reporter gives us her perspective on the new class of mega-ship from Royal Caribbean.  Go>
7-16-08
 
Meet Ben Lyons, QM2's Chief Officer
We interviewed Ben Lyons, at 29 years old and a U.S. citizen, one of youngest chief officers ever hired by Cunard.  Go>
7-14-08
 
Putting Ship Design into Perspective
With the introduction of Carnival Splendor let's put some ideas on cruise ship design, both interior and exterior, into perspective.   Go>
7-11-08
 
Introduction to the Carnival Splendor
Carnival's newest and largest "Fun Ship" to date is ready for her July 10 debut in Dover, England.   Go>
New Pictures Added!
7-09-08
 
Kid-Smart Safety at Sea
Here's what you should know about how safe your kids really are at sea.   Go>
7-07-08
 
Eurodam Inaugural in Rotterdam
CruiseMates' editor Paul Motter reports from the newly-presented Holland America ship Eurodam, just officially "named" in Rotterdam, Holland.   Go>
7-04-08
 
Your Cruise Has Been Refused!
People with cruise tickets are sometimes denied boarding at the last moment, losing not only their vacation time, but their cruise fare as well.   Go>
6-27-08
 
The Small Ships of Cruise West
A small ship cruise line that offers lifetime experiences in a friendly and intimate setting. Discover one of the biggest small ship cruise lines.   Go>
6-25-08
 
Sea of Cortez with American Safari
Ultra-personalized service, plush accommodations and detailed amenities have appealed to the likes of Bill Gates and Warren Buffett.   Go>
6-23-08
 
New Surprises from Oasis of the Seas
Royal Caribbean International revealed "secrets number two and three" to New York City press and travel agents yesterday.   Go>
6-18-08
 
NCL Introduces the F3 Nightlife
F3, the third generation of "Free-style" ships coming soon to Norwegian Cruise Lines, bring an array of innovative shipboard entertainment options.   Go>
6-18-08
 
European Cruise Recommendations from Oceania
How is the current economy affecting the biggest cruising season in Europe ever? Cruisemates interviewed Oceania Cruises' Tim Rubacky to find out.   Go>
6-18-08
 
Silversea Cruises -- Prince Albert II
The luxury line's newest ship offers state of the art adventure cruising in a comfortable luxury setting.   Go>
6-16-08
 
Semester at Sea -- Not Just for the College Kids
Semester at Sea is known as a seafaring program for college kids, but many adults take advantage of it as well.   Go>
6-6-08
 
Queen Mary 2: After Dark
The world's largest ocean liner becomes a formal affair after dark with magnificent dining venues and ballroom dancing.   Go>
6-4-08
 
Queen Mary 2: The Ocean Liner Experience
Today cruise ships are mostly a vacation option, but there was a time when passenger vessels were lifelines.   Go>
6-2-08
 
Toy Story on the High Seas
Our reporter says Disney has the best family stage shows on the high seas. Other great family options, too.   Go>
5-30-08
 
Second City @ Sea
A talented comedic cast shares its improvisational skills with passengers on NCL's Jade.   Go>
5-28-08
 
Norwegian Jade - New Cruise Ship Review!
CruiseMates offers an all-new review for the latest NCL ship to hit the high seas - Norwegian Jade. The latest Free-style refinements come together.   Go>
5-26-08
 
Is Disney Just for Little Kids? No Way!
The family-friendly line also has plenty of options for teens on its two ships.  Go>
5-23-08
 
Port Guide: Philadelphia
The City of Brotherly Love truly welcomes tourists with open arms as a part of its historic heritage.  Go>
5-21-08
 
Best Ships for Nightlife
Norwegian Cruise Lines creates new concepts in onboard entertainment with "name" shows and flexible showtime schedules.  Go>
5-19-08
 
Alaska: The Family Cruise of a Lifetime
For most people, a cruise to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For families cruising together, Alaska is an adventure they will always remember.  Go>
5-14-08
 
Passport Rules Getting More Complicated
Carribean cruise passengers will still be able to get by without a passport, but we don't recommend it.  Go>
5-12-08
 
Opinion: Cruise Ship Safety Update
The industry has made real progress in handling and reporting those rare instances of crimes aboard ship.  Go>
5-09-08
 
First Look at Celebrity Solstice
The line's new class of ships is the first in a wave of upcoming new-build ships with innovative design.  Go>
5-07-08
 
Cruises for Mom
Let's say you've already bought Mom her Mother's Day card, but you still can't find the perfect gift. Did you ever think, how about a cruise?  Go>
5-05-08
 
My Cruise on Silverseas' Silver Cloud -- Part II
In Part 2 of this two-part review, CruiseMates contributor E. Schlenk continues his detailed review of his recent cruise on the Silver Cloud.  Go>
5-02-08
 
My Cruise on Silverseas' Silver Cloud -- Part I
In Part 1 of this two-part review, CruiseMates contributor E. Schlenk gives us some insight into luxury cruising on the Silver Cloud.  Go>
4-30-08
 
NCL Introduces the F3 Stateroom
F3 is the code-phrase for the third generation of "Free-style" cruising as defined by Norwegian Cruise Lines.  Go>
4-25-08
 
Cruising and All That Jazz
Jazz Cruises hit a high note on the high seas with full-ship music cruise charters that fill the bill.  Go>
4-23-08
 
How to Bargain in Foreign Ports
Souvenir sellers in foreign ports have different customs. How to get the most for your money without offending.  Go>
4-21-08
 
What's New in Family Cruising: 2008
So what's new in family cruising? Plenty. Here's a rundown of new ship features, cruise line by cruise line.  Go>
4-11-08
 
Zip Line Shore Excursions
How to get the most out of this action-oriented tour option now available on many cruises.  Go>
4-09-08
 
Cruise Complaints: Service and Tipping
CruiseMates' reader Todd De Haven opines the high expectations of perfection in food and service on cruises ships.  Go>
4-07-08
 
Royal Clipper -- Historic Sailing Experience
Star Clipper's flagship proves to be a classic beauty, perfect in style and service.  Go>
4-04-08
 
Liberty of the Seas with Kids
Here's a report of just one day's full schedule for a family onboard Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas.  Go>
4-02-08
 
Meet Onboard Seminar Leader Richard Hatch
Workshop leaders like TV actor Richard Hatch can enrich the cruise experience with life-changing lessons.
03-26-08
How to Organize Your Own Group Cruise
Putting together a group cruise may be easier than you think -- with a little bit of organizational skill and lots of help from the right people.
03-24-08
GalactiCruise: A Fan's Convention at Sea
Planning the show's 30th anniversary fan convention at sea provides unexpected benefits to group's organizer.
03-19-08
Cruising Glossary
CruiseMates readers help us assemble a list of the most commonly used terms in cruising.
03-17-08
Cruise Line Itinerary Planning
How does a cruise line select a ship's route? Holland America's Director of Deployment and Itinerary Planning explains it to us.
03-14-08
The Elusive Cabin Upgrade
What is one of the most coveted "prizes" of cruising? An upgrade! Here is the inside scoop on how upgrades are handed out.
03-12-08
Cruise Packing Tips
A complialtion of all the packing items you never thought to bring on a cruise by the experienced sailors at CruiseMates.
03-10-08
Cruise Insurance for Everyone
This article doesn't have any sexy pictures, but it is chock-full of great information about cruise and travel insurance -- even "cancel for any reason."
03-07-08
Is the Cruise Industry Changing?
Has the cruise experience changed? Or do some passengers have unrealistic expectations about today's ships? A perspective for new cruisers.
03-05-08
Oceania Cruises -- Taking it to the Next Level
One of the cruise world's most unique success stories tells us how they plan to expand upon their initial achievements with a brand new ship design.
03-03-08
European Cruising Primer -- Part 2
A guide for first-time visitors considering a cruise: The Baltic, Atlantic cruising and river trips.
02-29-08
Mediterranean Cruising -- a Primer
A guide to Europe's most popular cruising region for first-time visitors.
02-27-08
Cruising on a Budget
Is it possible to take a cruise and not spend a fortune while onboard? Your end-of-cruise tab can be next to nothing if you have the right attitude.
02-22-08
How to Write a Cruise Review
Writing a cruise review is a great way to make your opinion known. It also helps your fellow cruisers when they are deciding on a ship for their next voyage. Here's some tips to make the process of writing your next review easy and fun!
02-20-08
Carnival Re-invents Fantasy-class Ships
"Evolutions of Fun" upgrade program means "extreme makeovers" for eight older cruise ships.
02-18-08
Behind the Scenes: The Cruise Staff
CruiseMates' Cruise Director Kuki tries out the real thing on Carnival Liberty.
02-15-08
Travel Scams: How to Recognize and Avoid Them
What to do when a telemarketer says, "Congratulations, Grand Prize Winner! You've won a Free Cruise!"
02-11-08
Rock 'n Roll Cruising
"I've seen the future of cruising, and it ROCKS!" Reporter Judy Cuervo sums up Concerts at Sea's 15th Annual Rock & Roll Cruise.
02-06-08
The Suite Life Round-Up
From square footage that exceeds many people's homes, to perks worthy of VIP status, here is a detailed comparison of suite offerings from all of the major cruise lines.
02-01-08
Internet Access on Ships
Internet access on ships is still pretty slow and expensive. Why is this so, and when will things get better?
01-30-08
Best Cruise Trends for 2008
The most innovative trends in cruising for 2008, from new itinerary planning to onboard refurbishments.
01-28-08
Comparing Carnival and Celebrity
After back-to-back cruises on each, Kuki evaluates the two lines' respective strengths and weaknesses.
01-21-08
New Ships for 2008 and Beyond
Innovative designs and unexpected shipboard activities demonstrate how the cruise lines will continue to entice passengers.
01-09-08
Theme Cruising on Today's Ships
There are dozens of theme cruises offered every year on topics as diverse as gourmandism, oenophilia, philatelism and other extremely hard to spell words.
01-02-08
Extreme Shore Excursions
How to find something "completely different" to do in port, and often save money in the process!
12-28-07
Kennedy Space Center
Port Canaveral's Kennedy Space Center offers cruise ship travelers an opportunity to experience something different.
12-26-07
Best and Worst of Cruising: 2007
As we come to the close of another year in cruising, we reflect on the most significant events of the last 12 months. What has improved, what has gotten worse, and where is this industry going?
12-24-07
NCL Upgrades its "Free-Style" Service
NCL announces quality enhancements to its already unique Free-style cruising service.
12-21-07
First Look at the Norwegian Gem
She's bigger, bolder and more elaborate than anything else in the NCL fleet. Come aboard for a first-hand look at this fabulous new ship, the Norwegian Gem!
12-19-07
Travel Props
How to make a coach airline seat feel more like a first-class experience.
12-17-07
Queen Victoria Naming Ceremony
Cunard's newest liner is officially named by Camilla with Prince Charles at her side in the U.K. this morning.
12-10-07
Sail Away and Blast Off from Port Canaveral!
Port Canaveral is a favorite departure point for family cruisers -- and so is its Kennedy Space Center.
12-07-07
When Does a New Ship Start to Age?
Wear-and-tear accumulates quickly on vessels used by thousands of passengers each week. So how can you be sure you're not boarding a "sick" ship?
12-05-07
Is a World Cruise for Me?
Here are some things to consider if you think you could never afford the time or money for such a voyage.
11-28-07
Onboard the Carnival Freedom
Carnival's newest megaship has outrageous decor, with food and service to match. There's a reason it's called "Carnival."
11-26-07
Windjammer Cruises: The Final Installment
In Part 4 of this series we learn that none of the Windjammer ships are sailing any longer, and the first lawsuits have been filed. What will the sharks do when they smell blood?
11-23-07
Windjammer Cruises: The Plot Thickens -- Part 3
In Part Three we see the family behind Windjammer tightening the hatches, but close ties start to create friction in the family.
11-21-07
Windjammer Cruises: The End of an Empire -- Part 2
The story continues about the rise and fall of a cruise legend, and the people responsible for its demise.
11-19-07
Windjammer Cruises: The End of an Empire -- Part 1
Here is the complete story on the rise and fall of a cruise legend, Windjammer Barefoot Cruises.
11-16-07
Putting Things into Perspective
Are all the reports of mishaps involving cruise ships and their passengers really as bad as they would seem?
11-12-07
Holland America Galley Tour
A galley tour on Holland America's Westerdam shows how meals for 1,800 are conceived, cooked and served.
11-05-07

Delta Queen Fights Back!
As Delta Queen is about to lose its Congressional exemption the daughter of the man who saved her in 1970 takes up the fight to save her again.
11-02-07

Kid-Smart Safety at Sea
Here's what you should know about how safe your kids really are on a cruise ship.
10-31-07
Cruise Packing List for Women
Here's what a woman should pack for a cruise ship - along with a check-off INTERACTIVE version.
10-29-07

Going First Class - and Then Some!!
Cruise ship suites are more popular and opulent than ever. Here are the latest trends in suites from the newest cruise ships.
10-26-07

Previewing Cunard's New Queen Victoria: Part 2
In this second part of our series, we'll examine dining options and staterooms on Cunard Line's new Queen Victoria.
by Paul Motter
10-24-07

Previewing Cunard's New Queen Victoria: Part 1
With its newest ocean liner, Cunard breathes new life into passenger ship traditions.
by Paul Motter
10-22-07

Dining at Sea: An Overview
Here's a quick summary of what the major lines offer in dining venues and policies.
by Rita M. Ippoliti
10-12-07

First Look at Celebrity Solstice
The line's new class of ships is the first in a wave of upcoming new-build ships with innovative design.
by Paul Motter
10-10-07

Cruise Packing for Men
A serious guide to what men need to take on a cruise, including a printable packing list.
by Paul Motter
10-08-07

Interview with Carnival's John Heald
Kuki asks John Heald, Carnival's Top Cruise Director, about his popular blog and its upcoming group cruise.
10-03-07
If We Ran the Cruise Line
Here are some suggestions for what we would do differently if we were in charge.
9-28-07
How to Solve Your Cruise Problems
Passengers who address shipboard problems like a cruise industry insider are likely to get better results. Read on to learn some of the "tricks of the trade."
9-26-07
Have a Safe Cruise
How to plan a cruise and conduct yourself in a manner that will enhance your onboard safety.
9-24-07
Getting the Most from the Ship's Spa
The spa and fitness center has something for everyone. Here is a guide to help you make smart choices among the many treatments and workouts available.
9-14-07
Finding the Right Travel Agent
Factors to consider include price quotes, service levels, cruise expertise and should you book directly with cruise line?

Reading the Fine Print on Cruise Tickets
What are you entitled to when something goes wrong with your cruise? It's one of the most common questions we get.
9-10-07
A Look at Alcohol Policies by Cruise Line
One of the most frequently asked questions we get is "can I bring my own liquor aboard?" Well, here is your answer: It depends on your cruise line.
9-07-07
Regent Seven Seas: Delighting in the Details
Regent Seven Seas delights in those little details that make cruising extra special. Read more about what's in store for Regent's lucky passengers.
9-05-07
Enriching the Cruise Experience
Holland America's Terry Breen has some dramatically new ideas for onboard enrichment programs. Read on to see what great things she has planned!
8-17-07

Alaska Up Close and Personal on American Safari's Escape
More like a private yacht than a cruise ship, American Safari Cruises' 12-passenger Escape gives guests a singular experience at sea and onshore.
8-15-07

Losing the Delta Queen
One of America's great treasures, an historic landmark and the most authentic steamboat still in existence is about to end its career as a legal cruise vessel. The Delta Queen loses its congressional status.
8-13-07

A New Look at the Emerald Princess - Part 2
A look at the newest ship From Princess. A look at family amenities, shore tours, entertainment, spa and the rumors.
8-10-07

A New Look at the Emerald Princess - Part 1
Even at 113,000-tons and 3080 passengers, Princess' newest ship delivers the promise of premium cruising in Europe. Part One.
8-08-07

The Evolution of the Cruise Ship
A whimsical look at the cruise ships of today and how they are amazingly alike their elegant ancestors of yesteryear.
8-01-07

Condo Ships on the Horizon (Part 2)
The World, managed by ResidenSea, will soon have company with three new condo ships slated for roll-out.
7-18-07

Condos at Sea: A World Apart (Part 1)
Part one in a series about a new breed of cruise ships that offer residential ownership -- and short-term rentals.
7-16-07

Family-friendly Bermuda
This British island has plenty to interest your kids, from historic attractions to nature to beautiful beaches.
7-02-07
The "New" Windstar Cruises - Part 2
Part two of our Windstar Wind Surf European cruise report. And good as ever and getting better!

6-27-07
The "New" Windstar Cruises
Now sailing under a new cruise line, it's as good as it ever -- and getting even better.

6-25-07
Costa Serena Debuts
Costa's newest flagship, the 114,000-ton Costa Serena, receives a worthy christening in Marseille, France.

5-23-07
Small Ship Camaraderie
The casual ambience leads to new friendships and other great reasons to take a small ship for your next cruise

5-11-07
River Cruising in France
Uniworld's River Baroness overcomes scheduling difficulties for a memorable Paris-to-Normandy cruise on the Seine.

4-24-07
Interview with Rick Sasso, MSC Cruises
Cruise Industry veteran talks to us about the emergence of Europe and his new role at MSC Cruises.
4-20-07
First-time Freestyle on NCL's Pearl
An experienced cruiser is pleasantly surprised by NCL Free-style innovations in on-board facilities and services.
3-30-07
Golf Programs on Cruise Ships
Eagles and birdies abound, aboard ship and ashore. Golf cruise programs are available on several major cruise lines throughout 2007.
3-23-07
Gen-X and Boomers Rockin' Cruise Ships
Special music and party-related theme cruises for the Gen-X and Boomer generations are filling ships with ease.
3-07-07
North American River Cruises
U.S. riverboat and small ship companies celebrate the tradition and the scenery of the Mississippi and Columbia Rivers, plus Alaska, the Great Lakes and coastal routes.
3-07-07
Carnival Freedom Makes Its Debut
Carnival Freedom, the newest and most innovative ship by Carnival yet, debuts in Venice, Italy, in a ceremony presided over by Kathy Ireland.
New Pictures
3-05-07
EasyCruise - A Floating Youth Hostel
Jean-Marc Papineau updates us on the budget aspects of the Easy-cruise milieu.
2-28-07
New Cruise Ships for 2007
Seven new ships will enter the North American cruise market this year -- many of them similar to vessels you already know, and others that break the mold.
Royal Caribbean's Destination Planning
A Royal Caribbean executive explains the process cruise lines use to create new itineraries.
Acupuncture at Sea
The tide is changing as Celebrity brings an increasingly popular health and wellness option to its fleet.
European River Cruising
Major operators offer all-inclusive cruise/tour packages especially for the U.S. audience.
The New NCL Emerges
With the introduction of Norwegian Pearl, Free-style Cruising comes of age on Norwegian Cruise Lines.
World Cruise - The Ultimate Voyage
If you've already done almost every cruise imaginable, a world cruise still beckons...
Norwegian Pearl Shines
The newest ship from NCL features ten-pin bowling and the most lavish suites at sea.
Celebrity's New Century
The newly expanded and remodeled favorite will sail four and five-day cruises out of Miami.
Cruise Ship Rock Concerts
Rock cruises like Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Gimme Three Days" are more than just music on ships. You have to see one to believe it.
11-20-06
Winter Cruising 2007
Cruise bargains and unusual itineraries. Here's a look at what's new and special in cruising for winter 2007.
11-13-06
The Largest Spa at Sea
Is the Samsara Spa on Costa's new Concordia; and here is an inside look.
Pride of Hawaii
Norwegian Cruise Lines introduces the largest U.S.-flagged ship ever. Sumptuous suites and tropical decor abound.
Costa's Largest Ship Launches
CostaConcordia debuts with a schedule of seven-day Med cruises.
Freedom of the Seas - First Look
RCI's new mega-ship is a Voyager-class vessel on steroids.
 5-19-06
Seeing Hawaii with Pride
NCL's Pride of America brings a patriotic ambience to inter-island cruising.
Statendam's Superior Service
Staff training and experience shows on our writer's Holland America cruise to Asia.

MSC Caters to U.S. Tastes
European line enhances Caribbean cruise experience for the North American market.
Princess Upgrades Amenities
Top-Tier Enhancements give a homier feeling to mini-suite and higher cabins.
Ship Preview: Freedom of the Seas
Royal Caribbean�s largest-ever vessel will be especially family-friendly.
Celebrity's Touches of Class
The line proves to our correspondent it's the little things that count.

Copyright © 2008 , Cruisemates. All rights reserved.
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