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🇳🇱| Welkom bij mijn Cruise Stories
Op deze plek deel ik mijn persoonlijke ervaringen en eerlijke reviews van de mooiste schepen. Omdat ik ook een internationaal publiek heb, schrijf ik sommige verslagen in het Engels, maar je vindt hier ook veel verslagen in het Nederlands.
🇺🇸| Welcome to my Cruise Stories
This is where I share my personal insights and honest reviews of the world’s most beautiful ships. To cater to all my followers, these stories are written in English, providing you with all the details you need for your next voyage.
Cruise the World: Visiting the Greatest Icons in Style
Did you know that one of the most seamless ways to travel is combining a cruise with visiting the world's most iconic sights? In this blog, I’ll show you which legendary landmarks are within reach when you choose to explore the world by sea. Having visited several of these wonders myself, I'm excited to share my personal insights with you. The Pyramids in Egypt The Greatest World Cruise Iconic sights on a cruise When we talk about the "Greatest Icons," we mean those landmarks
Esther
7 days ago5 min read
World cruise: once-in-a-lifetime experience sailings in 2027
Dreaming of the ultimate journey? 2027 offers unparalleled opportunities to explore the globe. From the luxury of Oceania Vista to the iconic Queen Mary 2: start planning your dream world cruise today.
Esther
Apr 14 min read
Cruise Port Amsterdam
Amsterdam is changing its cruise rules for 2026, and it’s more than just a change of scenery. From the new ship limits at PTA to the €15 'hidden' tax, navigating the Dutch ports requires a plan. Discover how to save on fees, find the best luxury transfers from IJmuiden, and which 5-star hotels are truly worth your stay.
Esther
Mar 187 min read
Group Cruises
Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events—elevated. Explore the world of modern group cruising, where professional AV facilities meet exceptional hospitality and tailored planning for every squad.
Esther
Mar 15 min read
The Modern Cruise Muster Drill Explained
Remember the days of standing in the heat with a bulky lifejacket, waiting for the safety drill to end? Those days are over. As an ex-cruise staff member, I’ve seen the 'traditional' drill from both sides. Discover how modern technology has redefined the first hour of your cruise into a seamless, stress-free experience.
Esther
Feb 113 min read
The Bidding Process at Cruises: How to Win a Suite Upgrade
Is a butler just a bid away? Explore the bidding process at cruises for luxury lines like Oceania and Explora Journeys. From pricing secrets to expert tips on why booking direct is often the safer bet, here is everything you need to know before you place your bid.
Esther
Jan 273 min read
How the role of Cruise Staff has changed
How has the cruise staff role changed over the years? Based on my personal experience working onboard, I’ve seen the shift from socializers to safety professionals. From the Ropes Course to the Bingo hall, discover how modern mega-ships have reshaped the responsibilities of the crew and what it means for your next vacation.
Esther
Jan 214 min read
NCL Free at Sea Choice offers explained
Is NCL's Free at Sea actually worth the upgrade in 2026? From the secret self-service taps in the Solo Lounge to the 'Starbucks factor' and the exclusive advantages for Haven guests, I’m breaking down the fine print that most travel sites miss. Whether you're traveling solo or with family, discover how to maximize your value and avoid unexpected costs on your next Norwegian cruise.
Esther
Jan 176 min read
The Ultimate Abyss – Royal Caribbean’s Most Thrilling Slide at Sea
Deck 16 start of the Ultimate Abyss Experience The Ultimate Abyss is one of Royal Caribbean’s most thrilling attractions, a dry, spiraling slide that drops riders several decks in just a few seconds. It’s designed for thrill-seekers, families, and anyone looking for a burst of adrenaline at sea. The slide starts at Deck 16 at the back of the ship and brings riders down to the Boardwalk on Deck 6. What Exactly Is the Ultimate Abyss? The Abyss is a dry slide that spans up to 10
Esther
Jan 73 min read
Gangway Duty: Behind the Scenes as Cruise Staff
When guests step aboard during embarkation day, you are the first person they will see, Whether you’ve had 4 hours of sleep or a long ocean crossing, when that gangway opens, you are 'duty'. You are the smile that tells them: your vacation starts now. For the Cruise Staff it is the first time they meet the new guests for the up coming cruise. When I worked as Cruise Staff, gangway duty was a familiar routine: long hours, formal uniforms, and the excitement of greeting thousa
Esther
Jan 47 min read
The Tender Port Survival Guide | Cruise Tender Guide
Learn how to navigate tenders like a pro with this Tender Survival Guide — tips on boarding, procedures, and smooth transfers from ship to shore. Printable PDF included!
Esther
Jan 15 min read
Miami Is Much More Than Just a Cruise Port for Cruisers
Cruise ship departure Miami Miami Cruise Port Miami is so much more than just a departure point for your cruise, it’s a vibrant city full of culture, adventure, and unforgettable sights. Why not arrive a day or two early and explore before you set sail? There’s plenty to do, whether you want to visit the Everglades on a tour, shop at world-famous malls, soak up the sun on South Beach, or wander through the colorful Art Deco and Wynwood districts. In this guide, I’ll take you
Esther
Dec 24, 20257 min read
Is There Still a Formal Night on Cruises?
Curious about Cruise Formal Night? From traditional black-tie evenings to today’s relaxed ‘Dress Your Best’ nights, discover how cruise lines handle elegant evenings and what to expect onboard.
Esther
Dec 20, 20253 min read
Most Frequently Asked Cruise Questions – Answered by a Former Crew Member
Here you will find the most frequently asked questions on board a cruise ship.
Esther
Dec 16, 20255 min read
Asia Cruise: what not to miss
From bustling cities to tropical islands, an Asia cruise offers unforgettable sights and experiences. Discover the must-see ports, top attractions, and insider tips for your voyage.
Esther
Dec 9, 20258 min read
Monaco Grand Prix Cruise 2026
Experience the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix like never before—luxury cruises with Explora, Azamara, and Windstar Surf put you right next to the action in Port Hercule.
Esther
Dec 5, 20253 min read
The Captain’s Table: A Unique Cruise Tradition
Experience the Captain’s Table cruise tradition, where selected guests dine with the captain and officers, enjoy exclusive menus, and discover a piece of maritime history.
Esther
Dec 3, 20253 min read
How Cruise Check-In Works: Home to Terminal
Everything you need to know about cruise check-in: what to do at home, how app check-in works, what to expect at the terminal, and how easy river cruises are.
Esther
Nov 25, 20253 min read
The Nobleman River Cruise Ship
Step aboard The Nobleman river cruise and discover a world of luxury, wellness, and a boutique hotel experience on the Rhine.Read my personal experience and tips right here.
Esther
Nov 23, 20253 min read
Cruise Port Civitavecchia (Rome): Everything You Need to Know
Many travelers don’t realize that the cruise port for Rome is actually Civitavecchia, about 50 miles away. This guide explains how to get to the port, travel to Rome, embarkation tips, and how to make the most of your day in the Eternal City.
Esther
Nov 16, 20255 min read
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