Feature

Pandaw Cruises has announced the launch of a new vessel for the Kerala backwaters in South India, scheduled for October 2025.The Kochi Pandaw, a 10-cabin ship, will be custom-built for this unique route while preserving the traditional Pandaw design, including classic cabins and wraparound promenade decks. This will be Pandaw's 4th ship in India, underscoring the growing demand for river cruises in the region.Constructed at a shipyard in Kochi under the guidance of Pandaw’s build team and local naval architects, the Kochi Pandaw reflects a collaboration aimed at offering an authentic and seamless cruising experience. The ship will[...]

Gratuities on a Royal Caribbean cruise are part of the total vacation cost, but they can be confusion, especially for first-time cruisers.As a cruise ship passenger, you're expected to give tips to crew members during your voyage. Don't worry, this isn't as awkward or formal as it sounds, but understanding how these gratuities work and what they cover will be helpful.Not only will you need to distribute gratuities, you also need to plan your cruise budget to account for them.Royal Caribbean, like all major cruise lines, has a system in place to ensure that the hardworking staff members[...]

Sir Richard Branson expanded his role as Virgin Voyages celebrated 3 special couples during its recent Celebration Sailings.The week-long events, which featured performances by Boy George, stargazing sessions with Virgin Galactic astronauts, and trivia hosted by Virgin Atlantic leaders, marked a milestone for the Virgin brand. Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, officiated the weddings of 3 couples during their voyages, highlighting Virgin Voyages' foray into offering seafaring nuptials.Flying between the Caribbean and Europe, Branson presided over a series of wedding ceremonies, helping kickstart Virgin Voyages' new wedding packages, available to Sailors starting in April 2025. These offerings[...]

How different is Anthem of the Seas from Oasis of the Seas?Both Royal Caribbean ships come from different classes, but are similar in that they've become cruiser favorites. Both ships have been known to sail similar itineraries, both offering a host of exciting activities onboard.So which one is better, and how do the two compare?The most obvious difference is that the two ships are from different Royal Caribbean classes. Think of it ship classes like car models in how they are grouped together.Oasis of the Seas, launched in 2009, was the first ship in the famous Oasis Class.Read more:[...]