CRUISING WITH MARIANNE

Welcome back to the show! In this episode, I’m diving into what I absolutely loved about the Carnival Mardi Gras and the innovative Excel Class of ships. As someone who’s been on many Carnival cruises over the years, I can honestly say—this ship was a total game changer. From brand-new concepts to first-of-its-kind features, Mardi Gras takes the cruising experience to a whole new level. I’ll walk...

Welcome to episode 28 – Today we will cover Grand Turk (Turks & Caicos).   Nestled among the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Grand Turk is a paradise waiting to be explored. Shore excursions are highly recommended to enjoy the best of the island with the activity that interests you (whale watching (seasonal), beach breaks, duck boat,snorkeling, sting rays, and 3-wheel scooter rentals a...

"Now, if you're debating whether to embark on a shore excursion or explore independently, let me share a little tip: Freeport truly comes alive when you immerse yourself in the curated experiences offered through shore excursions. From thrilling encounters with marine life to the tranquility of kayaking through mangroves, these excursions ensure that every moment is etched into your memor...

Today, we're diving into the allure of Nassau, Bahamas – a gem that sparkles on the itinerary of many 3-4 night cruises. Join me as we explore the tropical paradise that is Nassau, where pristine beaches, vibrant sea life, and endless sunshine await!" "Explore the wonders of Nassau through exciting shore excursions, immersing yourself in the rich marine life or strolling through the...

My friend Debbie and I just got off the Allure of the Seas. This is a quik recap as we are driving back from Port Canaveral to Orlando. This Royal Caribbean gem is not just a cruise ship; it's a floating city at sea, ready to sweep you off your feet from the moment you step aboard." "Thrill-seekers, this ship has your name written all over it. Zip lining, surfing on the FlowRider, an...

As we sail through the highlights of the Carnival Freedom, I hope you're as excited as I am about what this ship offers. Whether you've sailed on her before or are dreaming of your future cruise, Carnival Freedom is a ship that offers freedom, fun, and unforgettable memories. Until next time, happy cruising!" 110,000 gross tons and 2980 guests. Great size ship. I loved the Guy's B...

This episode is a quick overview of Carnival Cruise Line. Carnival Cruise Line is known for its emphasis on fun. Carnival is one of the world's largest and most popular cruise lines with 27 ships and over 50 years of sailings at sea. Great for first-time cruisers Considered the "FUN SHIPS". Family friendly Affordable As we wrap up this episode, I hope you've caught a glimpse of w...

Welcome to a new episode of "Cruising with Marianne"! In today's discussion, we're diving into the essential topic of ports of departure for cruises from the United States. Understanding the significance of your departure port is crucial as it shapes your entire itinerary. I'll guide you through each port of departure, unraveling the unique itinerary options available when se...

Welcome to a new episode of "Cruising with Marianne"! With so many options available when booking a cruise, I've dedicated this episode to help you navigate the diverse world of cabin types. From cozy interiors to luxurious suites, we'll explore each cabin category, unraveling the distinctions to ensure you choose the perfect cabin for your cruise experience. Whether you're c...

How do I know which dining to choose? Every cruise line is different, but typically they offer 3 options. Early seating, late seating, and flexible seating. In this episode, you will learn all the options and some tips. Determining which dining option to choose on a cruise can be a pivotal decision for your overall experience. Cruise lines often present three main choices: early seating, late seat...

Welcome to a crucial episode of "Cruising with Marianne"! In this episode, we're tackling the essentials for U.S. citizens embarking on a "closed loop sailing" – cruising from and returning to a U.S. port city. While passports are not mandatory, they are strongly recommended for a secure and seamless travel experience. We'll discuss the importance of passports, along wi...

Welcome to a special episode of "Cruising with Marianne"! Today, we're focusing on a very important cabin type – wheelchair-accessible cabins. Embark on this informative journey with me, and let's ensure you have the knowledge to make well-informed decisions when booking wheelchair-accessible cabins. If you have specific questions or topics you'd like me to address in future...

Welcome to a special episode dedicated to first-time cruisers. As a seasoned cruiser, I understand the excitement and questions that come with your first cruise. In this episode, we'll cover: Booking: Port of departure determines ports of call, number of days, cabin type, cruise documents for US Citizens, trip insurance, gratuities, dining options and more. After You Book: Explore the next ste...

Welcome to a new episode of "Cruising with Marianne"! Now that your cruise is booked and paid in full, you might be wondering about additional expenses onboard. In this episode, we'll explore the extras that may come up, allowing you to plan according to your lifestyle and budget. Join me as we discuss the various onboard expenses. Understanding what falls outside the standard cruise...

Welcome aboard, cruisers! In today's episode of "Cruising with Marianne," I will cover the question that often crosses the minds of every cruiser: What's included in my cruise fare? Let's explore the essentials to ensure you make the most of your cruise experience. If you have questions or if there's a cruising topic you'd like me to explore in future episodes, reach...

Join me as I unravel the mystery behind cabin guarantees and explore whether this booking option aligns with your cruising preferences. If you have questions or if there's a cruising topic you'd like me to explore in future episodes, reach out at info@CruisingwithMarianne.com. Smooth sailing!

In this episode, I will cover a common question: What is the difference between cruises, and how do you choose the cruise line that's right for you? Today, I just want to give a quick overview of my opinion on each cruise line. With so many choices and options to choose from it can be overwhelming. ⚓ I will cover future episodes of each of the cruise lines and a more in-depth exploration of t...

Welcome to the world of Royal Caribbean, where innovation meets the open seas across their impressive fleet of 29 ships. Royal Caribbean is more than a cruise line; it's an adventure playground on the water. With activities ranging from rock climbing, FlowRider surf simulators, and Zip Lines to Broadway-style shows and ice-skating rinks.  Join me as I explore the different classes of ships and...

Hello, cruisers! Welcome to another episode of "Cruising with Marianne." In today's episode, I will cover cruise luggage allowances. Packing for a cruise can be both exciting and challenging, and understanding the rules and guidelines for luggage is essential for a smooth embarkation. Remember, each cruise line has its own set of policies, so it's crucial to be aware of the speci...

I am so excited to launch Cruising with Marianne! This is my first episode! I have been in the cruise business for over 30 years and wanted to give you some insight into who I am, how I got my cruise experience, and where I am today. The goal of my podcast is to cover all things cruising, from what to expect for first-time cruisers to ports of call, what's onboard, and all the different cruise...

In this episode, I'll explore how cruise lines go above and beyond to cater to special dietary needs or food allergies, ensuring that every cruiser can indulge in a delightful culinary journey at sea. If you have questions or if there's a cruising topic you'd like me to explore in future episodes, reach out at info@CruisingwithMarianne.com. Bon appétit!

Welcome to a new episode of "Cruising with Marianne"! In today's discussion, we're tackling a key question: When is the best time to book your cruise, and how far in advance should you plan? As we emerge from the pandemic, cruising has surged in popularity, making advanced booking even more crucial. In my opinion, the sooner, the better! I'll guide you through the advantages...

Join me on this family-friendly voyage, where I will cover the Kids Program and what to expect from the different age groups (6 months old to 17-year-olds). Cruise lines go above and beyond to cater to families with children. Your kids will have a blast while you enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. From themed photo sessions to family-friendly events, you'll be creating memories to last a lif...

Welcome to a new episode of "Cruising with Marianne"! Today, we'll be covering "parking at the pier". By understanding the ins and outs of parking at the pier, you'll be better prepared for a smooth embarkation process. If you have specific questions or topics you'd like me to cover in future episodes, feel free to reach out to me at info@cruisingwithmarianne.com. H...

Embrace the language of the high seas and sail smoothly through your cruise adventures as I cover the unique language of cruises "Cruise Lingo". Cruises have their cruise-specific jargon that may or may not be familiar to you, but good to know before the cruise. I am uncovering a few of the most popular terms. If you have questions or if there's a cruising topic you'd like me to...