№ 00The FareTide almanac
Cruise guides, plotted for first-timers and old hands
Plain-spoken advice on planning, booking and enjoying a cruise — from your first embarkation to a winter crossing on Queen Mary 2.
26 guides·04 sections·Free to read
№ 01Start here · Planning
First-Time Cruiser's Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Everything you need to know before stepping on board for the first time — from choosing a cabin to surviving embarkation day.
Read the guide8 min read
Destinations
08 guides- 02
Mediterranean Cruise Guide: Ports, Routes & Tips
From Barcelona to Dubrovnik — everything you need to plan the perfect Mediterranean cruise.
6 min read
- 03
Norwegian Fjords Cruise Guide: What to Expect
Dramatic scenery, charming ports and fresh Arctic air — your complete guide to a Norwegian Fjords cruise.
6 min read
- 07
Caribbean Cruise Guide: Islands, Routes & Tips for UK Travellers
Sun-soaked islands, turquoise waters and tropical ports — your complete guide to cruising the Caribbean from the UK.
10 min read
- 08
Canary Islands Cruise Guide: Islands, Routes & Tips
Year-round sunshine just a few days from Southampton — everything you need to know about Canary Islands cruises.
10 min read
- 09
Transatlantic Cruise Guide: Crossings, Routes & Tips
The ultimate ocean voyage — from Southampton to New York and beyond. Your complete guide to transatlantic crossings.
11 min read
- 10
Iceland Cruise Guide: Ports, Wildlife & Arctic Adventures
Volcanic landscapes, whale watching and dramatic fjords — your complete guide to cruising Iceland.
11 min read
- 11
Baltic Cruise Guide: Ports, Culture & Northern Europe
Imperial cities, white nights and stunning architecture — your complete guide to Baltic cruises from the UK.
11 min read
- 26
Christmas & New Year Cruises: Festive Sailings Guide
Swap the sofa for the sea — your complete guide to spending Christmas and New Year on a cruise.
18 min read
Planning
07 guides- 04
How to Find Cheap Cruises: 10 Money-Saving Tips
Smart strategies to book your cruise for less — without sacrificing the experience.
7 min read
- 05
Cruise Cabin Types Explained: Inside, Oceanview, Balcony & Suite
Inside, oceanview, balcony or suite? Here's how to choose the right cruise cabin for your budget and style.
6 min read
- 12
The Ultimate Cruise Packing List: What to Pack & What to Skip
Everything you need to pack for a cruise — and the things you should definitely leave at home.
9 min read
- 13
Cruising with Kids: The Complete Family Cruise Guide
Kids' clubs, family cabins and splash parks — everything you need to plan a cruise the whole family will love.
10 min read
- 14
Solo Cruising Guide: Tips, Ships & Cabins for Solo Travellers
No single supplement stress — your complete guide to cruising solo with confidence and making the most of every moment.
14 min read
- 21
Best Time to Book a Cruise: Timing, Deals & Strategies
Timing is everything — learn when to book for the best cabin choice, lowest prices and smartest deals.
14 min read
- 23
Short vs Long Cruises: Which Duration Is Right for You?
Weekend taster or month-long adventure? How to choose the perfect cruise length for your style and budget.
15 min read
Life on Board
06 guides- 15
Cruise Drinks Packages Explained: Are They Worth It?
All-inclusive or pay-as-you-go? We break down cruise drinks packages so you can decide what's right for your sailing.
10 min read
- 16
Seasickness on Cruises: Prevention, Remedies & Tips
Don't let seasickness fears hold you back — practical prevention tips, cabin advice and remedies that actually work.
9 min read
- 17
Cruise Dining Guide: Restaurants, Menus & Dress Codes
Main dining, speciality restaurants and afternoon tea — everything you need to know about eating on a cruise.
12 min read
- 18
Cruise Excursions Guide: Tips, Types & How to Book
Ship excursions vs going it alone — how to plan incredible port days without the stress or overspending.
12 min read
- 19
What to Expect on a Sea Day: Activities, Dining & Relaxation
Sea days aren't boring — they're the best part. Here's what to expect and how to make the most of every hour.
10 min read
- 20
Cruise Entertainment Guide: Shows, Music & Activities
From West End shows to enrichment lectures — your complete guide to entertainment on Cunard and P&O cruises.
13 min read
Ships & Lines
04 guides- 06
Cunard vs P&O Cruises: Which Cruise Line Is Right for You?
Two of Britain's best-known cruise lines compared — which one suits your style and budget?
7 min read
- 22
Repositioning Cruises Explained: Routes, Prices & Tips
The cruise industry's best-kept secret — long voyages, incredible value and sea days galore.
15 min read
- 24
Queen Mary 2 Guide: Cabins, Dining & Transatlantic Crossings
The world's only ocean liner — explore Queen Mary 2's cabins, dining, transatlantic crossings and what makes her unique.
16 min read
- 25
P&O Arvia Guide: Cabins, Dining, Entertainment & Tips
P&O's newest and most exciting ship — everything you need to know about Arvia before you book.
15 min read