Ocean cruises
Ocean cruises are where I spend most of my time. I plan them on premium and small-ship lines, where the service, the dining, and the ports make the trip worth what you put into it.
Twenty minutes, no pressure, no obligation to book.
Every line feels different. Here's how I think about them, so we can find the one that suits you.
Two lines with a wide range of itineraries, including strong Alaska and Europe options. Holland America tends to suit couples who like a calmer, more traditional ship. Princess sails everywhere, from short getaways to world cruises.
Known for strong specialty dining and suite options, for couples who want the evenings on board to feel like part of the trip.
A bigger ship isn't a lesser one. What matters is whether it has what you're looking for. Norwegian offers flexible dining and Haven, a private suite area on select ships, for couples who want space and service. Royal Caribbean's big ships have a lot happening on board, which suits couples who like a full day. I help you find the right ship, and I'll say so if a smaller one would suit you better.
Smaller, port-focused ships for couples who care more about the destination than the ship. Oceania and Viking Ocean are adults-only, with itineraries built around the ports, and Oceania also puts a lot into the food. Azamara stays longer in port and focuses on the destination.
I ask how the two of you like to spend a day, then match that to a line instead of handing you a long list.
A balcony, a suite, or a window. We talk through what's worth paying for on that ship.
Which ports, how long you stay in them, and what time of year makes the most sense.
Shore excursions, specialty dining, and any nights before or after the cruise. I walk you through the options and make suggestions, and tell you what to book and when.
Names matching passports, deposit dates, and the fine print on what happens if plans shift.
If yours isn't here, ask me on the call.
There isn't one best line. It depends on what matters most to the two of you. For a calmer, more traditional ship, I look at Holland America. For the widest choice of itineraries, Princess. If dinner is the highlight and you'd like a suite, Celebrity. For flexible dining or a private suite area, Norwegian. For a ship with a lot happening on board, Royal Caribbean. If you want adults-only with the ports at the center, Oceania or Viking Ocean, and Oceania puts extra into the food. Azamara stays longer in port. I ask a few questions about how you like to travel, narrow it to two or three lines, and tell you honestly which one I'd pick and why.
Small ships can reach ports bigger ships can't and often stay longer once they get there. Bigger ships usually have more restaurants, more entertainment, and more to choose from on days at sea. Neither is better. It comes down to what you want a day on board to feel like.
Often, yes, for a trip like this. It's private space that's just yours. Whether the upgrade is worth it depends on the ship, the itinerary, and how much time you'll spend in the room, which is exactly the kind of thing I help you weigh.
As early as you can. Popular cruises open up to two years out, and booking early gives you the best choice of ships, cabins, and dates, and often the best value for what you spend. Closer in still works, it just narrows what's left.
Tell me a little about your trip and we'll set up a planning call.
Request a planning callTwenty minutes, no pressure, no obligation to book.