In this episode of the podcast, Sarah and Kieran reflect on a huge year of travel, cruising and unforgettable ships, from Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line to Princess Cruises and Virgin Voyages.

They talk honestly about favourite cruise ships, how cruise pricing really works, why booking early often beats last-minute deals, and how cruise lines continue to evolve with new ships, dining concepts and onboard experiences.

This episode covers:

• 🚢 Royal Caribbean vs Disney Cruise Line, what makes each special
• 🌍 How cruise itineraries can matter more than the ship
• 💰 Cruise pricing, sales, packages & why prices fluctuate
• 🍽️ Dining packages, all-inclusive fares & value for money
• 🎭 Entertainment, shows & onboard atmosphere comparisons
• ❄️ Winter sun cruises, Caribbean favourites & Alaska cruising
• 🛳️ Why some cruise lines feel “fun” and others more traditional
• ✈️ Ports, embarkation cities & itinerary planning tips
• 🎢 Cruising for families, couples & repeat cruisers

Sarah and Kieran share personal cruise experiences, lessons learned after 25+ cruises, and what keeps them excited about cruising year after year — including new ships, evolving onboard experiences, and upcoming sailings.

Check out this tour of the Odyssey of the Seas https://minitravellers.co.uk/photo-tour-and-review-of-odyssey-of-the-seas/

Book a Cruise with a UK Agent https://magical-traveller.com

For Cruise Tips. Cruising With Kids. https://cruisingkids.co.uk/

See Magical Traveller on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@UCBOqXqrrrYnUGk6H2AVk9Zg

And Mini Travellers on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MiniTravellers

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🌟 Welcome back to Magically Cruising – The Cruise Podcast! 🌟

In this week’s episode, Kieran and Sarah dive into a topic that matters to so many cruisers: accessibility, inclusivity, and how cruise lines support guests with medical needs, dietary requirements, allergies, and more.

Kieran, a travel agent specialising in cruises and Disney travel, and Sarah, a cruise writer at Mini Travellers and Cruising With Kids, share real experiences, expert insights, and honest opinions on how different cruise lines cater to a wide range of needs on board.

🎙️ In This Episode We Cover:

• Why cruising can be one of the most inclusive ways to travel

• How cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Disney and Virgin Voyages approach accessibility

• Dietary needs at sea: gluten-free, allergies, food safety & restaurant experiences

• First-hand stories about travelling with Type 1 Diabetes

• How to prepare BEFORE you sail, including medical equipment, sharps bins, special diets & sensory needs

• Which cruise lines excel… and where improvements are still needed

• The realities of buffets, speciality dining, and consistency between ships

• How to advocate for yourself or your family on board

• Why early communication with the cruise line makes all the difference

• The truth about accessible cabins and why they show up in general inventory

• Plus: celiac cruises, sourcing special foods, and what cruise lines will actually do if they can’t meet essential dietary or medical requirements

Whether you’re travelling with allergies, mobility needs, sensory needs, chronic conditions, or you’re just curious about how inclusive cruising REALLY is, this episode has something for you.

Get Cruise Reviews Here https://minitravellers.co.uk/category/cruise/

Book A Cruise https://magical-traveller.com/

Cruise Tips https://cruisingkids.co.uk/

Read about Kieran's time sailing in China with Royal Caribbean:- https://magical-traveller.com/day-two-how-chinese-is-spectrum-of-the-seas

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In this week’s episode of Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast, Kieran and Sarah dive into the freshly announced Royal Caribbean 2027 deployment, and trust us, there is a lot to get excited about!

Together, we break down the headline news everyone’s talking about: Legend of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon Class ship, is not only returning to Europe but sailing for the entire 2027 season.

We chat about why this is such a big deal, how it compares to previous new-ship seasons, and what makes Icon Class feel revolutionary rather than just evolutionary.

But that’s not all — we also dig into the more controversial talking point of the week: the return of Mariner of the Seas to the UK. Is she an “old ship”, or a well-loved Royal Caribbean classic with incredible features, a fab renovation, and one of the best atmospheres at sea? (Spoiler: we think the negativity is totally undeserved!)

We explore:

✨ Why Mariner is perfect for UK families

✨ How ship renovations make a world of difference

✨ The realities of sailing from UK ports and why Oasis-class ships will never be based here

✨ What itineraries you can expect in 2027 — from Norwegian Fjords to Spain & France

Plus, Sarah reveals she’s already booked not one but two Royal Caribbean cruises for 2027… and Kieran may or may not be sneaking in a surprise sailing of his own.

If you're a Royal Caribbean fan (or just cruise-curious!), this episode is packed with insight, excitement and honest opinions from two seasoned cruisers who know the European market inside out.

🎙 Hosts:

Kieran Miller, Independent Travel Agent, Disney & North America Cruise Specialist

Sarah Christie, Cruise writer at Mini Travellers, Cruising With Kids at MSN, co-host of Magically Cruising

See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise tips https://minitravellers.co.uk/?s=cruise

Book a Cruise with a UK Agent https://magical-traveller.com

For Cruise Tips. Cruising With Kids. https://cruisingkids.co.uk/

See our tour on Mariner of the Seas https://minitravellers.co.uk/photo-tour-and-review-of-mariner-of-the-seas/

Mariner of the Seas for Kids https://cruisingkids.co.uk/7-things-kids-will-love-about-mariner-of-the-seas/

And Odyssey of the Seas https://minitravellers.co.uk/photo-tour-and-review-of-odyssey-of-the-seas/

See Magical Traveller on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@UCBOqXqrrrYnUGk6H2AVk9Zg

And Mini Travellers on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MiniTravellers

View all the Royal Caribbean 2027 sailing dates and itineraries here https://magical-traveller.com/royal-caribbean-europe-2027

👉 Subscribe to Magically Cruising for weekly cruise tips, reviews, and destination advice.

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Join Kieran and Sarah on this week’s episode of Magically Cruising as we dive into an unforgettable adventure in China!

Kieran recently returned from an incredible hosted trip, sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas from Shanghai to Japan. In this episode, we share:

Insider tips for cruising in China

Experiences exploring Shanghai, including local culture, shopping, and more

What it’s like sailing on Spectrum of the Seas, including unique features, specialty dining, and must-see onboard highlights

Tips for navigating Chinese apps, transport, and visas

How Royal Caribbean makes international cruising seamless and stress-free

Whether you’re curious about cruising in China, love Royal Caribbean adventures, or just want travel inspiration, this episode is packed with insights and personal experiences you won’t want to miss!

Want To Book Read This

And Find Out More About Spectrum of the Seas

🎙 Hosts:

Kieran Miller, Independent Travel Agent, Disney & North America Cruise Specialist

Sarah Christie, Cruise writer at Mini Travellers, Cruising With Kids at MSN, co-host of Magically Cruising

See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise tips

Book a Cruise with a UK Agent

For Cruise Tips. Cruising With Kids.

See Magical Traveller on YouTube.

And Mini Travellers on YouTube

👉 Subscribe to Magically Cruising for weekly cruise tips, reviews, and destination advice

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Kieran and Sarah dive into the magic of Disney Cruise Line, fresh off Kieran’s recent sailing on the Disney Fantasy around the Norwegian Fjords. From hidden Imagineering details to split bathrooms, incredible service, and the pure nostalgia that Disney brings at sea, this is an honest, detailed look at what makes Disney cruises so special.

🚢 In This Episode:

Why Disney Cruise Line has climbed back to the top of Kieran’s list 🏆

The difference between Disney and Virgin Voyages ✨

Behind-the-scenes insights

The immaculate design, storytelling, and maintenance onboard Disney Fantasy

Cabins, split bathrooms, service levels, and those magical little details

What it’s really like sailing Disney in Norway 🇳🇴

Whether you’re a Disney fan planning your first cruise or a seasoned cruiser curious about what sets Disney apart, this episode is packed with insider tips, honest opinions, and plenty of cruise geekery.

🎙 Hosts:

Kieran, Independent Travel Agent, Disney & North America Cruise Specialist

Sarah, Cruise writer at Mini Travellers & MSN, co-host of Magically Cruising

See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise reviews https://minitravellers.co.uk/?s=cruise

Book a Cruise with a UK Agent https://magical-traveller.com

For Cruise Tips. Cruising With Kids. https://cruisingkids.co.uk/

See Magical Traveller on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@UCBOqXqrrrYnUGk6H2AVk9Zg

And Mini Travellers on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MiniTravellers

👉 Subscribe to Magically Cruising for weekly cruise tips, reviews, and destination advice.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thinking of booking a cruise? Before you set sail, it’s important to know what’s really included in your fare—and what will cost extra once you’re onboard. In this episode of Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast, Kieran and Sarah dive into the hidden costs of cruising that can surprise even experienced cruisers.

We chat about:

• What’s included in your cruise fare (and what isn’t!)
• The real cost of drinks packages, dining plans, Wi-Fi & gratuities
• Excursions and onboard activities that can quickly add up
• How different cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Disney, Princess, Celebrity & Virgin Voyages handle extras
• Tips to budget smarter and avoid a shock at the end of your sailing

Whether you’re new to cruising or a seasoned cruiser, this episode will help you plan, budget, and make the most of your next holiday at sea.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Virgin Voyages has just revealed its fourth ship – Brilliant Lady – with some smart improvements, design tweaks, and bold new itineraries, including Alaska and the Panama Canal. But is she truly different from her sister ships, or just more of the same?

In this week’s episode of Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast, Kieran (independent travel agent & cruise expert) and Sarah (family travel & cruise blogger at Mini Travellers) dive into what sets Brilliant Lady apart.

Kieran shares his exclusive first impressions onboard, from upgraded cabin layouts and refreshed dining to entertainment changes and Virgin’s softer branding shift. We also explore her exciting new sailings across North America, Alaska, and beyond – plus whether these changes make Virgin Voyages more appealing to first-time cruisers.

👉 If you’re wondering whether Brilliant Lady is worth booking, this episode gives you the insider details you need before deciding.

What's new on Brilliant Lady

See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise tips https://minitravellers.co.uk/?s=cruise

Book a Cruise with a UK Agent https://magical-traveller.com

See Magical Traveller on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/⁨@MagicalTRVLR⁩ 

And Mini Travellers on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MiniTravellers

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Cruise Ship Private Islands: Are They Worth It? | Castaway Cay, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bimini Beach Club & More! 🛳️

Today, we’re diving into one of the biggest debates in the cruise world: cruise ship private islands. Are they the ultimate Caribbean escape… or just an extension of the cruise bubble?

We chat about our experiences on some of the best cruise line private islands in the Caribbean right now:

⚓ Disney’s Castaway Cay – the original family-friendly private island that still delivers the magic.

⚓ Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay – with its record-breaking waterslides, Thrill Waterpark, Chill Island, and luxury cabanas.

⚓ Virgin Voyages’ Beach Club at Bimini – a stylish, adults-only beach club vibe with DJs, pools, and that iconic float-out party.

We also touch on:

➡️ The pros & cons of private islands (are you missing out on local culture?)

➡️ What’s actually included in your day ashore (food, drinks, activities).

➡️ How cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Carnival, Virgin Voyages, and MSC are racing to build bigger, better private destinations.

➡️ Whether these “perfect” destinations are worth the hype, or the extra $$$.

If you’re planning a Caribbean cruise 2025/2026 or just curious about what makes these private islands so popular, this episode is packed with insider tips, honest opinions, and a little cruise gossip along the way!

🚢 Mentioned in this video/podcast:

Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line)

Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean)

Beach Club at Bimini (Virgin Voyages)

Celebration Key (Carnival)

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (MSC Cruises)

👉 Have you been to a private island? Do you love them… or avoid those itineraries? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & join us every week on Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast for cruise tips, reviews & stories.

See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise tips

Book a Cruise with a UK Agent

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Think family cruise lines are just for kids? Think again! In this video, we're sharing exactly what it’s like to sail on a family cruise line as an adult – the surprises, the hidden perks, and why you might love it even if you don’t have children with you.

F

rom private adults-only retreats and gourmet dining to incredible entertainment and world-class spa experiences, I’ll take you through the parts of a family cruise that many adults overlook. You’ll also hear the pros, cons, and little secrets that could make or break your trip.

Whether you’re planning your first cruise or considering a switch from an adults-only ship, this honest review will help you decide if a family cruise line is right for you.

💡 In this video:

⚓ Our honest thoughts on family cruises without kids

🍹 Hidden adult-only areas and activities you’ll love

🎭 Entertainment that goes way beyond kids’ shows

🛏️ Cabins, dining, and service from an adult perspective

🚢 How family cruise lines compare to adult-only cruises

🎙️ About Magically Cruising Podcast

We’re cruise lovers sharing insider tips, reviews, and travel stories to help you plan your next adventure at sea.

📌 More Cruise Tips & Reviews:

➡️ Oasis of the Seas Ship Review https://minitravellers.co.uk/review-of-oasis-of-the-seas-with-photo-tour/

➡️ Guide to Disney Cruise Line for Adults https://magical-traveller.com/is-disney-cruise-line-for-adults

🚢 Book a UK Cruise https://magical-traveller.com/

🚢 For More Cruise Content, See Sarah and Donna's TikTok For All Things Cruise

https://www.tiktok.com/@cruisingwithkids?_t=ZN-8yVtBcQvaTe&_r=1

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LISTENER NOTE: Kieran was onboard Majestic Princess, so apologies for the lower quality sound than usual.

Welcome aboard, another episode of Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast, your go-to show for cruise reviews, expert tips, and all things ocean travel!

This week, join Kieran (independent travel agent & cruise specialist) and Sarah (cruise blogger at Mini Travellers) as they deep-dive into life onboard Majestic Princess by Princess Cruises. Recorded mid-sailing in the Bay of Biscay, we talk:

🚢 What it’s really like sailing with Princess Cruises in 2025

🍽️ Is the Premier Beverage Package worth the upgrade?

🐒 Exploring Gibraltar (with monkeys, dolphins... and bird poop mishaps!)

🧭 Traditional vs. contemporary cruise experiences

🛳️ Why Princess may (or may not) be the right cruise line for you

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or booking your very first sailing, this episode gives you an honest, fun, and informative look at what to expect on a Princess itinerary, especially if you're weighing it against Virgin Voyages, Celebrity, or Royal Caribbean.

Plus: Kieran tests OceanNow live during the episode – will his coffee and water arrive before we’re done talking?

See More

Sarah and Donna TikTok For All Things Cruise

Kieran's first impressions of sailing Majestic Princess in Europe

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