At Cruise Specialists we believe in first-hand experience as the best educational tool for our cruise consultants.  We invest in these opportunities to ensure we properly represent a cruise line, and our guests are matched with a ship appropriate for them. Recently, Joe Lucero, Teresa Skeim and Bridgett Quinn Webber each had the opportunity to sail with Explora Journeys, a new luxury cruise line. They sailed on EXPLORA I, which carries only 922 guests, all in suites with private terraces (verandas) which surpassed their expectations. Explora Journeys are designed differently. The first th ..read more

Cruise Specialists staff member, Matt Reich recently returned from a family cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas with his wife and two children and provided a wonderful recap of their experiences. If you are considering a family cruise, this post provides some valuable insight. Travel Date: 12/23/23 | Ship: Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas | Duration: 7 Days Destinations: Cape Canaveral, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatan, Costa Maya Embarking on the Wonder of the Seas, the world’s 2nd largest cruise ship, behind the new Icon of the Seas, promised an unparalleled family vac ..read more

Oceania Cruises executes an impressive Shore Tour Program with a multitude of options to enhance your cruise experience. From their Culinary Discovery tours to the Executive Collection, Oceania offers unique cultural experiences and once-in-a-life adventures in more than 600 ports around the world. After years of sailing on Oceania and booking clients on everything from 7-day Caribbean cruises to World Cruises, Cruise Specialists staff thoroughly understands the Shore Tour Program and can offer insight to help you make the best choices for your next Oceania cruise. Cruise Specialists exclusive ..read more

I first sailed on Seabourn Encore six years ago when the ship was new.  It was a great experience and I was happy to see that this all-suite, all-veranda ship is still in excellent condition today. Suites On our recent European sailing, we were in a V2 Veranda Suite on deck 8.  The suite was beautifully appointed with a queen-sized bed, stocked in-suite bar, large walk-in closet with robes and slippers, comfortable sitting area, spacious veranda, marble bath with separate tub and shower and exclusive Molton Brown bath products.  We were welcomed with a chilled bottle of champag ..read more

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth – Elegant, Relaxed and Stylish Having previously toured Cunard’s beautiful Queen Victoria, I was excited to have the opportunity to visit her sister ship, Queen Elizabeth, in Vancouver, British Columbia, where the ship departs for its Alaska itineraries. From the stunning Art Deco interiors, to the spacious staterooms and exceptional service, Queen Elizabeth offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking an elegant, relaxed and stylish cruise experience. Public Spaces: The Queen Elizabeth‘s public spaces are some of the most beautiful and welcoming areas on ..read more

Back row-left to right- Joe Lucero, Susan Rios Front row- Left to right Merlynn Lucero, Cliff Bainum, Mark Protiva, Marie-Paule Emanuel Cruise Specialists staff recently had the pleasure of cruising on Oceania’s spectacular ship, Vista, roundtrip from Los Angeles and provided another insightful update including helpful tips and suggestions for guests considering sailing on Oceania Vista. “This ship is stunning! The details in every room are a surprise and delightful” commented Cruise Specialists Director of Sales, Susan Rios. Elegant, Spacious Accommodations Penthouse Suite Each and every stat ..read more

If you are curious to know more about Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships, look no further! Cruise Specialists Cruise Consultants, Gillian Clark and Teresa Skeim, provide a first-hand account of what it is really like on Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer. Unveiling Elegance From the moment they stepped on board, Gillian and Teresa were impressed with the elegance and sophistication. The ship’s interior boasts exquisite marble floors, opulent chandeliers, and lavish furnishings that create a sense of grandeur. Every inch of the ship is meticulously designed to provide a luxurious ambiance, ensuring you ..read more

If you are curious about what to expect on a luxury expedition cruise, you are not alone! This niche is still a mystery to many experienced travelers. Offering more exploration options than a typical cruise yet providing all the amenities and services you appreciate on a typical luxury cruise; it falls somewhere between the lines of a spirit awakening exploration and a relaxing getaway. Cruise Specialists staff was invited to spend the day on board the exquisite Seabourn Venture, the first ultra-luxury expedition ship to join the Seabourn fleet. Pictured: Teresa Skeim, Gillian Clark, Kim Jacks ..read more

ahlan wa sahlan“Ahlan wa sahlan” or welcome is a phrase you will hear and use throughout your visit to Egypt. Hatshepsut Temple Known for ancient treasures and rich history, Egypt is one of the oldest civilizations in the world. Annie Scrivanich recently returned from the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids Cruisetour on Viking Ra and has put together a helpful list of tips for those that wish to visit this fascinating region. Entry Visa Currently, US citizens can purchase a single-entry tourist visa upon arrival in Egypt for $25/US dollar cash. Be sure to review the current travel requirements at ..read more

Annie Scrivanich and Voyage Host, Tom Mullen Cruise Specialists’ very own Annie Scrivanich and Voyage Host, Tom Mullen just returned from Viking’s 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids cruise-tour aboard the 52-guest Viking Ra and couldn’t wait to share their experiences on board this destination specific ship. Viking Ra on the Nile River near the Temple of Sobek and Haroeris in Kom Ombo, Egypt. A Ship Fit for Egypt: Viking Ra Viking’s commitment to delivering an immersive experience in Egypt was evident before Annie and Tom even stepped aboard Viking Ra.  Upon arrival at the Cairo International ..read more