Send us a text Booking to go on a cruises Maiden voyage use to be a bucket list for many cruisers, but since 2020, so many of these first (or first few) cruises are having major issues. From entertainment and restaurants not being ready, to unfinished construction work, and even engine problems; and in Episode 29 of the Suite Natured Cruise Cast, we ask, "Is A Maiden Voyage Just Too Risky?" We talk about our own experiences aboard maiden voyages, as well as looking at other more recent challenges with delays and problems such as NCL Aqua, Cunards' Queen Anne and Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. We also give our thoughts on a few of the recent cruise news stories and have a bit of a saucy confession from one of our listeners/watchers, which sparks an interesting conversation about Late Night Linzi! If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Maiden Voyages 01:34 Defining Maiden Voyages 02:25 Recent Problematic Maiden Voyages 05:59 Challenges Faced by New Ships 09:39 Pros and Cons of Booking a Maiden Voyage 18:07 Unique Experiences on Maiden Voyages 20:55 Tips for Booking a Maiden Voyage 23:20 Cruise Confessions and Stories 28:15 Cruise News and Updates Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text In this episode, having just returned from our first Windstar Cruise, we explore the concept of luxury in travel, particularly focusing on whether luxury experiences are exclusive to smaller ships and yachts; or can the bigger ships compare? We share our personal experiences aboard a small yacht, discussing the exceptional service, culinary delights, and intimate entertainment options that contribute to a luxurious atmosphere. We look at the differences in service levels and food quality between small and large cruise ships We also take a look at a few of the recent news stories in the cruise industry and have a confession from one of our listeners/watchers. Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text In episode 27 of the Cruise Cast, which is also it's first anniversary, we are looking awkward moments experienced while cruising. As usual we share personal anecdotes and scenarios that highlight the humorous and uncomfortable situations that can arise on a cruise, from art galleries to dining experiences. As usual we also take a look at the some of the rcent recent cruise news, including the departure of a notable captain and the trial of a beverage package by Virgin Voyages. Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text This episode of the Cruise Cast explores the seemingly ever increasing size of cruise ships, deliberating whether larger ships enhance or detract from the cruise experience. We discuss the balance between passenger convenience and the thrill of mega ships and we have a new Cruise Confession and our take on recent cruise news. 00:00 Introduction to Cruise Ship Size 02:25 Pros of Larger Cruise Ships 09:59 Challenges of Big Ships in Ports 14:47 The Experience of Crowded Destinations 19:55 Cruise Confessions and Personal Stories 30:10 Cruise News and Innovations If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text In this episode of the Suite Natured Cruise Cast, we delve into the topic of bedtime on cruises, discussing the importance of a comfortable bed, the best locations for sleep on a cruise ship, and the various cruise lines that offer the best sleeping experiences. We also touch on the role of TV in bedtime routines, the significance of night lights, and share exciting cruise news, including Celebrity's new river cruise venture and the development of a new cruise port in Belfast. 00:00 Setting the Mood for Bedtime on Cruises 01:55 The Importance of a Comfy Bed 06:00 Best Locations for Sleep on a Cruise 09:03 Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Sleep1 1:52 Evaluating Cruise Ship Beds 14:00 What Makes a Good Sleep Experience? 19:05 The Role of TV in Bedtime Routines 22:13 Night Lights and Other Sleep Essentials 24:20 Cruise News: Celebrity's New River Cruises 37:01 Belfast's New Cruise Port 38:55 Southampton's Record-Breaking Year Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text Ever imagined sailing the seas with your favorite sci-fi characters or rocking out at a Rock Festival at sea? Linz and Marky are your captains on a whimsical voyage through the world of themed cruises. We kick off with the allure of immersive experiences like the Star Trek cruise, where fans can mingle with celebrities and participate in exclusive activities, and compare it to other niche themes such as crafting or even solving puzzles on the "Puzzled About Everything" cruise. With the unique blend of rock and wrestling on Chris Jericho's Rock and Wrestling Rager at Sea, we uncover how these cruises offer something for every enthusiast despite their premium price tags. Our journey continues as we chart a course through alternative lifestyle cruises. From the vibrant allure of the Atlantis cruise, a favorite among the LGBTQ+ community, to the leather-clad adventures of Harley Davidson enthusiasts, Linz and Marky paint a vivid picture of these floating festivals. Personal stories and unexpected surprises add a humorous twist, like glittery decks and blacklight mishaps, making these cruises a tapestry of diverse experiences that are as unique as the passengers themselves. Finally, let your imagination run wild with dream-themed cruise ideas that are as entertaining as they are bizarre. Explore the concept of a Smallville-themed Cruiseville Cruise, set for 2025, or the hilariously impractical Meow Meow cat-themed cruise. With playful "what ifs" like a CM Punk-themed cruise and historical nods to wrestling's ancient beginnings, Linz and Marky wrap up with a lighthearted exploration of the endless possibilities in the world of themed cruising, leaving you eager for your next fantastical voyage. Grab a drink, sit back, and prepare for a ride through the vibrant and often humorous seas of themed cruises! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text In our look back at our (nearly) first year of the Suite Natured Cruise Cast, we've put together our favourite bits, and some of our favourite (or least favourite) "Mood Music". With contributions from many of our special guest co-hosts too. Ever wondered if a catchy intro track could make or break a podcast episode? We certainly have, and our quest to find the perfect mood music has taken us on a wild ride, from the swashbuckling notes of Pirates of the Caribbean to the unexpected charm of an '80s sitcom theme. Join us as we share our musical misadventures and a hilarious tale from a recent cruise to Albania with Virgin Voyages that involved an impromptu wine hangar tour. It’s all about embracing the quirky side of travel and podcasting with a smile. Indulge your taste buds as we recount our culinary adventures aboard various cruise lines, where the bread at the Veranda Restaurant and a cardamom-infused bread and butter pudding from Sindhu reign supreme. Our gastronomic journey wouldn't be complete without a nod to the exceptional risotto from the Eden Restaurant. Of course, we can't help but vent about the sky-high prices and relentless upselling at cruise spas. Our passion for cruising began with unforgettable experiences on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas and NCL Epic, and we’re excited to share those cherished moments with you. For those wondering about the true value of butler services or the practicality of drink packages, our candid chat covers it all. From a laugh-out-loud incident involving a cheese box to the perils of keeping clothes clean amidst oil spills, our experiences highlight the ups and downs of cruise life. Dive into our discussion on the pricing frustrations surrounding onboard drink packages and how some shrewd Black Friday deals helped ease the sting. With an upcoming trip on the Queen Victoria on the horizon, we're all set for new adventures and more stories to tell. Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text Going on a Cruise over the festive season, or even over Christmas itself can seem like a dream vacation, but do these festive cruises live up to the promise, or are you left feeling like you got a lump of coal in your stocking? Just off of our Queen Victoria Christmas Markets Cruise in December 2024, we thought it was the perfect time of year to discuss these festive cruises on the Suite Natured Cruise Cast. As well we look at some of the more recent news stories and give our thoughts in the final cruise cast episode of 2024. Chapters 00:00 Setting the Festive Mood 01:28 First Impressions of Festive Cruising 10:07 Exploring Christmas Markets 17:04 Creating the Perfect Christmas Cruise 20:38 Cruise News and Updates Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text Ready to navigate the world of cruise drinks packages? We sat down with Gavin and Luke, the dynamic duo known as the Cruise Monkeys, to explore whether these packages are just for heavy drinkers or if they offer real value for budget-savvy travelers. Our chat uncovers how P&O's selection, including the intriguing Kung Fu Girl wine, can enhance your cruising experience. Plus, we dive into how these packages might nudge passengers toward more onboard spending, from shopping sprees to a few rounds at the casino after a cocktail or two. Our conversation sails through the sea of drink packages on Princess, MSC, and Cunard, comparing their value for money and the perks they offer beyond just drinks, like gratuities and Wi-Fi. Virgin's packages come under the spotlight for their generous yet sensible offerings. We share our gripes about Royal Caribbean and Celebrity with their fluctuating prices and limited perks, where even your favorite sparkling water might come at a cost. It's all about finding the right sip on the ship without falling overboard your budget. We also tackle the often confusing and frustrating aspects of these packages, such as drink limits and the bewildering tier systems. Simplicity is key, and we advocate for clearer, more straightforward options to enhance your cruising pleasure. Alongside these discussions, enjoy Andrew's hilarious cruise confession, proving that some cocktail-making skills are best left to the experts. As the holiday season approaches, we also sprinkle in some festive cheer, imagining how cruise lines might deck their halls, adding enchantment to your holiday at sea. Join us for a journey that promises to leave you well-prepared for your next cruise adventure! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text In episode 20 of the Suite Natured Cruise Cast, we discuss the best and worst cruise lines for first-time cruisers, focusing on families and couples. Sharing our personal experiences and insights on various cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Disney, Cunard, and Virgin. We also touch on the ideal length for a first cruise and another entertaining cruise confessions and our take on the recent cruise news. 00:00 Introduction to Cruising for First-Timers 00:46 Best Cruise Lines for Families 11:12 Worst Cruise Lines for Families 17:06 Best Cruise Lines for Couples 22:06 Worst Cruise Lines for Couples 23:46 Perfect Length for a First Cruise 25:50 Cruise Confessions and News Stories f you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams and it would be great if you could give the video a like too 😀 Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text Join us on an exhilarating voyage through the world of premium cruising as we welcome Emma from Emma Cruises, who sheds light on the amazing "ship within a ship" concept. Discover the allure of exclusive areas, like private lounges and restaurants, that transform your cruise into an intimate escape from the hustle and bustle of the main ship. As we spotlight the experiences offered by cruise lines like MSC, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean, we're left to ponder whether other lines like Princess and Cunard measure up to this ultra-personalized adventure. Our journey takes a luxurious turn as we weigh the temptations of the Yacht Club's opulent offerings against the appeal of more frequent standard cruising. Priority embarkation, personal butlers, and secluded spaces beckon, yet we contemplate the risk of missing the broader cruise experience if one remains cocooned in such luxury. Through shared tales of our adventures, particularly with MSC, we dissect the unique amenities that define the Yacht Club and debate whether this high-end enclave is worth its premium price. We also have a special cruise confession from our guest host herself, Emma. Then finally we take a look at some of the recent Cruise New Storys. As cruising continues to evolve, we're thrilled to explore the rising trends among younger generations and the exciting developments on the horizon. From Singapore's emergence as a hotbed for cruising to the buzz surrounding the Star Princess's upcoming enhancements, the cruise industry is on the cusp of dramatic change. Emma shares her thoughts on the thrilling discovery of the German ship Titania and the adventurous potential of submarine exploration, wrapping up our episode with tales of shipwrecks, fictional voyages, and a dash of humour that leaves us eager for the next chapter in our cruising saga. Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text Did you ever think cruising might be stretching your wallet too thin? Join us as we embark on a humorous and nostalgic voyage through our cruising past. Linzi and Marky kick off the episode with a lively discussion about mood music, surprising ties to the three ages of Elvis, and some cheeky Father Ted moments that will surely tickle your funny bone. We're also teasing an exciting end-of-year awards ceremony, celebrating the best of mood music and more, making sure you stay entertained before we set sail towards our main topic. As your trusty cruise companions, we're diving headfirst into a candid exploration of cruising's rising costs. Remember our unforgettable 2018 transatlantic adventure aboard the Celebrity Eclipse, from Southampton to Bermuda, with an all-inclusive drinks package and flights for under £2,000? We unpack these fond memories and compare them with today's pricing trends, pondering whether cruising has become too exclusive for the average traveler. Share in our reflections and insights as we consider what the future holds for cruise enthusiasts like us. Tune in for a blend of nostalgia, humor, and thought-provoking discussion that's sure to engage and entertain. Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text Join us as Jared and Jordan from JJ Cruise help us untangle whether the latest innovations like Royal Railway's immersive dining or La Petite Chef's theatrical meals are genuine game-changers or mere gimmicks that don't add to the whole cruise experience. From the enchantment of Spellbound aboard the Sun Princess to the growing trend of onboard tattoo parlors, we dissect the true value and staying power of these new experiences. Ever wondered about the hype behind private islands? Get the scoop on our adventures at Royal Caribbean's Coco Key and Norwegian's private retreat, comparing their offerings and what truly makes a private island experience memorable. We also reflect on Virgin Voyages' surprising success with their onboard tattoo parlor, once dismissed as a gimmick but now a hit among cruisers. Hear our thoughts on how these trends might shape the future of cruising and the evolving strategies behind cruise dining experiences and collectibles. Laugh along with us as we recount Matt's tuxedo mishap on his first cruise and dive into the ongoing debate over Carnival Cruise Line's decision to nix tablecloths in their main dining room. Plus, get the latest scoop on the upcoming revamp of Virgin’s Scarlet Lady, from new dining options to the addition of luxurious cabanas. As we wrap up, enjoy a few tales of "Late night Lindsay" and her escapades, leaving you both entertained and eager for your next voyage. As usual the cruise cast includes our favourite cruise tips, takes on the cruise news stories and tales from our times on cruises. Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text Is hot weather cruising really all sun-soaked bliss, or are there hidden perks to braving the chilly seas? Join us as we unpack the contrasting experiences of hot versus cold weather cruising, sharing personal anecdotes from our adventures with Virgin, MSC, and Celebrity. From the convenience of lighter packing to the festive atmosphere of outdoor sail-away parties, we'll highlight the joys of warm-weather voyages while acknowledging that not every cruiser dreams of endless sunshine. Whether it's exploring vibrant ports or dancing the night away at theme parties, warm climates offer unique charms that can make for an unforgettable cruise experience. On the flip side, imagine gliding through the majestic fjords or witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights on a cold weather cruise. We'll take you through the serene and scenic landscapes of destinations like Alaska, delving into the relaxed ambiance and exclusive excursions such as glacier walks and husky sledding. Fewer late-night activities and a more casual dress code can be a refreshing change for those seeking a laid-back adventure. And yes, we'll even throw in our amusing story of getting sunburned on an unexpectedly sunny cold weather cruise—proof that sunscreen is a must, no matter the temperature! Finally, we'll tackle the challenges and considerations of both hot and cold weather cruises. Tips for navigating crowded pool decks, insights into the trade-offs of balcony cabins in cooler climates, and even a hilarious "Cruise Confession" from Jamie involving a naked balcony mishap in San Francisco. Plus, catch up on the latest cruise industry news, including Norwegian Cruise Line's new Prince tribute show and Virgin Voyages' wedding offerings. Whether you're a sun-seeker or an Arctic adventurer, this episode promises a comprehensive look at how weather shapes your cruising experience. As usual the cruise cast includes our favourite cruise tips, takes on the cruise news stories and tales from our times on cruises. Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…

Send us a text What if you could transform skepticism into delight with just a single experience? Join us as we welcome Gail and Mike, a couple from Liverpool who initially had some BIG reservations about setting sail with Virgin Voyages. Gail, especially, wary from negative press and misconceptions, shares her journey from hesitation to enthusiasm after their four-night trip out of Portsmouth. We'll explore how firsthand experience can radically change perceptions and why giving things a chance can lead to unexpected joys and memorable moments. Gail and Mike bust the myths surrounding the cruise's vibe, proving it’s more than just a young party haven. From the Mind Mangler show to vibrant nightclubs, the varied entertainment options cater to diverse tastes. We'll also share some lighthearted anecdotes that made their trip unforgettable, adding a dash of humor to our lively discussion. Wrap up with us as we savor the fantastic dining experiences aboard, including standout spots like Pink Agave and the potential revamp of Razzle Dazzle into an Asian restaurant. Gail and Mike praise the culinary variety and the ease of making dining reservations, which enhanced their overall cruise experience. Finally, we look ahead to the future of cruise travel, touching on sustainability initiatives and industry growth, making it a must-listen for both seasoned cruisers and curious newcomers. As usual the cruise cast includes our favourite cruise tips, takes on the cruise news stories and tales from our times on cruises. Support the show If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams Cheers, and have a lovely day Linzi & Mark…