Think St. Thomas is just beaches and shopping? Think again.

Melissa breaks down what every cruiser really needs to know about St. Thomas, including why renting a car is a mistake, how wild the taxi system actually is, and why the beach everyone talks about may not be the best one.

She shares local tips, her favorite hidden beach where you’re almost guaranteed to swim with sea turtles, and must-know advice on private drivers, excursions, and timing your return. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, you’ll walk away ready to plan a smoother, smarter, and less stressful day on the island.

What happens when a cruise ship’s computer system forgets who you are?

This week, Melissa unpacks a rare but massive IT failure that left Carnival Firenze stuck in port and thousands of guests confused and delayed. She also gives a raw update on the tragic Anna Kepner case, raising big questions for parents cruising with teens.

Plus, there’s growing unease over changing Southern Caribbean itineraries and a controversial onboard assault involving a mistaken identity. If you’re a poker fan, heads up, Princess Cruises might be quietly phasing out tables. And finally, Hawaii's new climate tax has cruisers rethinking those dream itineraries. A lot is happening behind the scenes, and it’s not all sunshine and daiquiris. *

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Carnival is now all-in on adults-only cruises after an unexpectedly huge demand, even adding transatlantic options. Meanwhile, MSC and Royal Caribbean are building bigger ships with fewer people to make cruising feel more spacious. Plus, Norwegian suddenly drops a popular Caribbean port, and new details emerge in a heartbreaking case on board Carnival Horizon. There's a lot to unpack, and it could affect your next sailing.

Why do we become totally different people the moment we step on a cruise ship?

From cheering on pier runners like they’re Olympic athletes to hunting rubber ducks like buried treasure, cruising turns ordinary adults into playful, sometimes goofy adventurers. This episode uncovers the fascinating psychology behind the most beloved (and bizarre) cruise ship traditions, from towel animals to cabin door magnets, and yes, even those sneaky pineapples with secret meanings.

What happens when a cruise ship serves someone 33 drinks in one afternoon, and he ends up dead?

This week, Melissa breaks down the shocking wrongful death lawsuit against Royal Caribbean that’s shaking up the cruise industry. Plus, a viral video shows a passenger punching a lifeguard on Icon of the Seas, and Carnival's big move in Ensenada could change that port's reputation. And if you're loyal to another brand, Virgin Voyages has a new status match perk you won’t want to miss.

Cruisers are facing new costs as Carnival raises service charges again, while a showdown between Port Canaveral and Port Miami is reshaping Florida cruising. Melissa breaks down what this means for travelers, plus the latest disturbing turn in the Ana Kepner case. We also touch on Royal Caribbean’s return to Jamaica, Virgin Voyages’ pricey Alaska pass, canceled cruises, Galveston delays, and a new home port opening in Philadelphia.

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**St. Lucia Port Guide** https://www.profmelissa.com/blog/stlucia

**Norfolk Port Guide** https://www.profmelissa.com/blog/norfolk

From a passenger vanishing mid tour in St. Martin to a violent week onboard multiple cruise lines, this episode breaks down the cruise stories everyone is talking about. With port attacks, teen club assaults, shipboard fights, construction setbacks, and a major policy change from Royal Caribbean, it is a whirlwind of updates, warnings, and real talk about what is happening across the cruise industry right now.

Think Atlantis is the only waterpark worth your cruise dollars in Nassau? Think again. Melissa just got back from Baha Bay at Baha Mar and spills the truth about what’s included, what’s missing, and if it’s actually worth the sky-high price. From gorgeous pools and short wait times to unexpected towel fees and underwhelming service, she shares the real pros and cons of this resort day pass. Plus, she gives you smarter alternatives like Breezes, British Colonial, and Margaritaville that may be a better fit for your style—or budget. Before you book, listen to this!

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Think Port Miami is all parties and chaos? Think again. Melissa shares smart, budget-friendly tips to help you cruise out of Miami like a pro. Learn how to score cheaper flights, skip overpriced transfers, pick the right hotel (including the only one with a free cruise shuttle), and make the most of your pre- or post-cruise time. Whether you're flying, driving, or cruising with a crowd, these tips will save you time, money, and stress without skimping on fun.

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**Miami Cruise Port Guide** https://www.profmelissa.com/blog/miami

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How safe are cruise ships really? From a lifeboat crashing into the ocean to a tragic death onboard Carnival Horizon, this episode covers the cruise stories that have everyone talking. With banned items on Disney, a passenger kicked off Royal Caribbean, and a loyalty program backlash, it’s a whirlwind of emotions, warnings, and real talk about what’s really happening at sea.