Sail Away Blog
Cruise Advice, Planning Tips & Destination Inspiration
Whether you’re planning your first cruise, organizing a group or simply wondering where you should sail next, the Sail Away Blog is here to make cruise planning easier.
Explore practical cruise advice, destination guides, first-time cruiser tips, onboard experiences, specialty cruises and travel essentials without digging through an old-fashioned archive.
- Start with the question you have today. Then follow your curiosity from there.
A REAL PERSON BEHIND THE ADVICE
Meet Captain Chuck.
Chuck Lund is the founder of America’s Best Cruises and has spent more than 35 years taking care of people and bringing groups together.
He understands that the best group trips aren’t really about ships, cabins or itineraries. They’re about the people you share them with, the memories you bring home and those wonderful moments when everyone realizes, “We’re really doing this together.”
That’s why Chuck approaches every group cruise personally. He helps take the uncertainty out of planning, keeps everyone informed and handles the countless details that can turn an exciting idea into a stressful job for the group organizer.
His goal is simple: make the planning easier, make the experience more personal and give everyone something wonderful to look forward to.
“I treat every guest like family because that’s what these trips are all about.”
Explore Cruise Advice by Topic
Browse the six main Sail Away Blog categories and jump straight to the cruise information that interests you most.
Planning & Preparation
Choosing a cruise, budgeting, documentation, embarkation and everything you need to feel prepared before you sail.
Destinations & Ports
Explore cruise destinations, ports of call, beaches, cities and unforgettable places to experience before, during and after your cruise.
Group & Family Cruises
Ideas and practical guidance for family reunions, friend groups, clubs, organizations and communities that want to cruise together.
Onboard Experiences
Discover dining, entertainment, activities, relaxation, nightlife and the experiences that make life aboard the ship part of the vacation.
Specialty & Themed Cruises
Explore themed sailings, music cruises, wellness cruises, food and wine experiences, special-interest groups and other distinctive ways to cruise.
Cruise Tips & Travel Essentials
Helpful advice about packing, travel documents, embarkation, safety, money, internet, gratuities and the little details that make cruising easier.
Not Sure Where To Start?
Whether you’re cruising for the first time, planning a group trip or simply deciding where to sail, start with the guide that best matches what you need right now.
First-Time Cruiser? Start Here
New to cruising? Start with the basics, from choosing the right cruise and understanding what’s included to preparing for embarkation and knowing what to expect once you’re onboard.
Planning A Group Cruise? Start Here
Bringing family, friends, a club, organization or online community together at sea? Start here for practical advice on planning, organizing and making a group cruise enjoyable for everyone.
Latest Sail Away Blog Posts
Celebration Cruise Packages That Actually Work
Celebration cruise packages make birthdays, reunions, and group trips easier with perks, planning help, and fewer surprises for everyone.
Do Cruise Groups Get Discounts? Yes – Here’s How
Do cruise groups get discounts? Yes – but it depends on size, timing, and cruise line rules. Learn how group rates and perks really work.
Private Cruise Events for Groups Made Easy
Plan private cruise events for groups with expert help on cabins, dining, activities, and details, so every guest can relax and enjoy the journey together.
Travel Agent vs Cruise Website: Which Wins?
Travel agent vs cruise website – see which option saves time, reduces group planning stress, and helps you get better cruise value.
Church Cruise Fundraising Example That Builds Community
Use this church cruise fundraising example to bring members together, support ministry goals, and give travelers a meaningful vacation at sea for all guests.
Best Cruise for Family Reunion Trips
Find the best cruise for family reunion travel with tips on ships, cabins, budgets, dining, and group planning that keeps everyone happy.
8 best cruises for multigenerational families
Find the best cruises for multigenerational families with tips on ships, cabins, dining, and itineraries that keep every age happy.
What Documents for Cruise Travel Do You Need?
What documents for cruise travel do you need? Learn passport, ID, visa, and group paperwork basics so every guest can board confidently.
Group Cruise Perks Explained Clearly
Group cruise perks explained clearly – learn what groups really get, how perks work, and where expert planning can save money and stress.
Cruise Itinerary for Groups That Works
Plan a cruise itinerary for groups with less stress. Learn how to match ports, sea days, budgets, and activities for a smoother group trip.
How to Select a Group Cruise Itinerary That Fits
Learn how to select a group cruise itinerary that suits every traveler, balances budgets and ports, and keeps planning simple from day one, for everyone.
When Should Groups Book Cruises?
Wondering when should groups book cruises? Learn the best booking windows, timing risks, and how to get cabins, perks, and better rates.
Group Cruise Dining Arrangements Made Easy
Group cruise dining arrangements can make or break the trip. Learn how to plan seating, timing, and special requests for a smoother group cruise.
How to Organize Cruise Payments for Group Trips
Learn how to organize cruise payments for group trips with less stress, clearer deadlines, fair cost sharing, and fewer last-minute surprises.
How Cruises Accommodate Dietary Restrictions
Learn how cruise lines accommodate dietary restrictions for group trips, from advance requests to dining-room follow-through and smart packing tips today.
