Ocean & River Cruising Resources
8 Cruise Check-In Rules for 2026 That Travelers Need to Know
In 2026, cruise check-in procedures have become far more structured across the industry. Passengers now face tighter deadlines, digital boarding systems, biometric screening, and stricter document requirements before reaching the ship. Skip even one piece? That could...
The surprising reasons river cruises are becoming more popular than ocean cruises
River cruises have quietly become one of the fastest-growing travel trends among American vacationers. Many travelers are now choosing smaller river ships over massive ocean liners because of the slower pace and more personal experience. Unlike traditional cruises,...
What surprises first-time travelers about Viking River Cruises
Viking River Cruises were not something that immediately came to mind for many travelers. They are often associated with older guests, quiet itineraries, and structured sightseeing. That perception changed after a personal family trip along the Danube River, following...
13 Things to Know About the NCL Jade Cruise Experience
A Backroad Planet baker’s dozen of candid observations and random reflections from repeat sailings aboard the Norwegian Jade cruise ship.
Cruising with NCL: An Insider Guide
Cruising with NCL just got easier with this Backroad Planet collection of tips, tricks, and opinions compiled by two avid Norwegian Cruise Line insiders.
15 Things to Know About the NCL Bliss Cruise Experience
A list of random observations and candid reflections from a 15-day Panama Canal sailing aboard the Norwegian Bliss cruise ship.
15 Things to Know About the NCL Dawn Cruise Experience
A collection of random reflections and candid observations from an 11-day Caribbean sailing aboard the Norwegian Dawn cruise ship.
15 Things to Know About the Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Experience
A collection of random observations and candid reflections from a 21-day sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas cruise ship.
How to Explore Skagen On Your Own
Forget cruise port excursions! Explore Skagen, Denmark, on your own with Backroad Planet’s downloadable guide to key sites, public transportation, and much more.
9 Reasons to Book an NCL Prima Cruise
Spacious designs, spectacular views, and stellar entertainment are great reasons to consider booking the NCL Prima for your next ocean cruise.
An Island Princess Cruise Ship Review
A collaborative review of the Island Princess cruise ship, including the pros and cons of sailing one of the oldest and smallest vessels in the Princess fleet.
Inside the MSC Cruises Guest Experience
Step inside the MSC Cruises passenger experience with a critical review of activities, entertainment, dining, and guest relations challenges passengers may face.