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Another cruise line is about to make a comeback — in an unusual place

Another cruise line is about to relaunch after not operating for many months — in a place that typically doesn't get a lot of cruise ships.

Small-ship operator Victory Cruise Lines, which until recently was part of American Queen Voyages , will restart operations in April with sailings on the Great Lakes.

The two-ship line is being revived by John Waggoner, a well-known entrepreneur in the maritime world. Waggoner bought Victory's two vessels in May at an auction in the wake of the bankruptcy of American Queen Voyages.

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Waggoner has a history with the vessels, as he ran American Queen Voyages when it originally bought them in 2018. Waggoner founded American Queen Voyages but no longer owned it when it was placed into bankruptcy earlier this year by subsequent owners.

Waggoner's new company on Tuesday announced that Victory would restart operations April 16 with a special 10-night cruise from Portland, Maine, to Toronto on one of the two vessels, 190-passenger Victory I.

Dubbed the New England and Canada 2025 Reunion Cruise, the sailing will be hosted by Waggoner and his wife, Claudette, and include a passage through the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Great Lakes.

Related: TPG's guide to Great Lakes cruising

The ship will then be rechristened in Toronto on April 27.

The line's second vessel, 190-passenger Victory II, will restart operations shortly thereafter. It'll be rechristened in Chicago on May 12.

The inaugural season of the two ships will bring itineraries that span all five Great Lakes.

"As long-time enthusiasts of maritime adventures, my wife Claudette and I are thrilled for the team to open reservations for the inaugural season as we prepare to sail these magnificent waters," Waggoner said in a statement accompanying the announcement. "Our cruise experience will offer many special touches, including being the only cruise line to dock at Chicago's Navy Pier, and most of all, our ships will be a home away from home exploring all five Great Lakes."

Both of the Victory vessels were originally purpose-built to fit into the locks of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway, which are narrower than some other locks around the world. Their small size — roughly 5,000 gross tons — allows them to navigate small harbors and call at downtown marinas in the region that would be off-limits to bigger ships.

The relaunching line on Tuesday revealed all its planned sailings for 2025 — a total of 36.

They will include 33 voyages that feature visits to every one of the five Great Lakes — the most of any cruise operator.

The line also said it would include a one-night precruise hotel stay at a premium hotel property and ground transfers for all voyages, something no other line does with every sailing.

The initial year of sailings will include:

• Nine-night Ultimate Great Lakes sailings from Chicago to Toronto that bring travel through all five Great Lakes. There will be 25 of these sailings from April through September 2025. Stops will include Escanaba, Mackinac Island, Sault Ste. Marie and Detroit in Michigan; Cleveland; and Niagara Falls (Port Colborne) in Ontario.
• Nine-night Ultimate Great Lakes sailings that will be similar to the above with the exception that they will begin in Milwaukee after an overnight hotel stay in Chicago. There will be six of these sailings from May through August 2025.
• Eleven-night Ultimate Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway sailings from Chicago to Montreal that bring travel through the St. Lawrence Seaway. There will be three of these sailings in September and October 2025. Stops will include Escanaba, Mackinac Island, Sault Ste. Marie and Detroit in Michigan; Cleveland; and Niagara Falls (Port Colborne) and Toronto in Ontario.
• Fourteen-night Great Lakes and Thunder Bay sailings that are round-trip from Chicago. There will be two of these sailings in May and June. Stops will include Mackinac Island (for an overnight), Marquette, Houghton, Sault Ste. Marie and Muskegon in Michigan; Thunder Bay, Ontario; Duluth, Minnesota; and Green Bay, Wisconsin (for an overnight).

The Great Lakes have been growing in popularity as a cruise destination in recent years, in part due to the arrival of a new line in the region, Viking . Viking added its first Great Lakes cruises in 2023.

Small-ship specialist Pearl Seas Cruises also has a presence in the Great Lakes.

Built in the early 2000s, the two Victory ships are small coastal vessels with 95 cabins spread over four passenger decks. Each of the ships has a main restaurant called the Coastal Dining Room for sit-down meals, as well as a more casual buffet eatery called The Grill.

They're also home to a main lounge called the Compass Lounge, which features singalong piano music, and an English-style tavern.

There are sun decks with cushioned sofas at the top of each vessel.

Each of the ships sails with Great Lakes experts that the line calls "Lakelorians." They lecture on local history, ecology and culture.

Itineraries for the ships opened for booking on Tuesday, with fares starting at $5,799 per passenger. Fares come with unlimited beverages, including wine, spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees; unlimited Wi-Fi; and a shore excursion in every port.

A one-night precruise hotel stay is also included in fares, along with ground transfers between the hotel and vessel.

Victory is joining luxury operator Crystal in restarting operations after shutting down in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Crystal restarted sailings under new owners in July 2023.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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*** Shipboard Credit - Terms and Conditions: Valid on all cruises booked through Dreams Unlimited Travel. Travel must be completed by 12/31/2025.  Shipboard credit amount is based on total amount of reservation with Dreams Unlimited Travel including taxes, transfers, trip insurance and pre- and post-night stays. Shipboard credit does not reflect pre-paid gratuities or other amounts such as gifts placed on room folio. This offer cannot be combined with any other shipboard credit or discount offer from Dreams Unlimited Travel including, but not limited to, those associated with group space or previous rebate and/or shipboard credit promotions. This shipboard credit offer excludes the $99 DCL bounce back offer.  This offer can be combined with the Disney Visa shipboard credit promotion if available and/or with the discount/shipboard credit from onboard bookings. Shipboard credit has no cash value outside of a Disney Cruise Line sailing and must be used while onboard the actual sailing booked.  Any unused portion of shipboard credit reverts back to Dreams Unlimited Travel.  No portion of the shipboard credit can be issued as cash, check or refund. This offer cannot be applied towards any active reservation booked.

10 smart ways to take your dream cruise without scuttling your budget

Posted: September 15, 2023 | Last updated: September 15, 2023

Buyer Beware

First, a word to the wise: As just about every  frugal traveler  knows, sometimes deals really are too good to be true…or at least not all they’re cracked up to be. It’s important to read the fine print and be sure of what’s included and not included in cruise deals you may find.

When considering the cheapest way to cruise, you’ll want to think about airfare, meals, excursions, room type and location, and other amenities that can lead to upcharges. That way, you can budget appropriately and make sure you have enough money in your  travel fund  to ensure you can afford your trip.

You’ll also want to pay close attention to cancellation policies. Many people plan trips far in advance, and situations can change between the time you book and the time you are supposed to board the ship. It can be wise to consider the costs and benefits of trip insurance. Note: Some  credit card travel insurance  may have you covered; check with your card issuer for details.

Next, the money-saving tips.

1. Read Cruise News

There are countless sites and blogs devoted to the cruise industry, staffed by both insiders and frequent cruise passengers. These sites cover both industry trends as well as specific deals and offers from particular cruise lines. In addition to finding cruise deals, they are great for learning about unique cruise offerings and locales. Some noteworthy sites include CruiseFever ( cruisefever.net/ ), CruiseHive ( cruisehive.com/ ) and CruiseCritic ( cruisecritic.com/ ).

2. Search the Travel Sites

CruiseDirect.com ( cruisedirect.com/ ), CruisesOnly.com ( cruisesonly.com/ ), Cruise.com ( cruise.com/) , and others are searchable databases of cruise offers. They are similar to Expedia, Travelocity, and other general interest travel websites, except they are devoted to cruises. These sites typically have sections focused on cruise deals and may at times have exclusive offers that aren’t available elsewhere.

Cruise line websites typically have their own deals section, as you’ll see on Carnival ( carnival.com/cruise-deals ), Princess ( princess.com/cruise-deals-promotions/ ), and Royal Caribbean’s ( royalcaribbean.com/cruise-deals ) sites.

3. Scan Social Media

The sites already mentioned and many others have social media presences on Twitter, Facebook, and other platforms. They often broadcast limited time deals through these accounts, so following them could be a good idea. Some good examples are CruiseDeals on Twitter, Best Travel Deals’ cruise account on Twitter, and the travel agent-led private Facebook groups Cruise Deals! and Vacation Packages & Cruises.

4. Look for Bundles

Both travel websites and cruise lines themselves often encourage passengers to bundle a variety of services and amenities when booking. These cruise bundles can offer real savings. Some of the options that are typically bundled include airfare, meal and drink packages, transport to and from the ship, free WiFi, and more. (About that WiFi: While some cruise lines have free WiFi, others charge $20 or $30 a day for this.)

When evaluating these packages, it’s worth taking the time to review each item, what it includes (there are various levels of perks available on ships, after all), whether you really want everything in the bundle, and what it would cost if you were to purchase the items separately.

5. Travel With Friends

If you have a big family and/or lots of friends, or if the idea of going on a cruise with your coworkers isn’t terribly off-putting, you might be able to score a group rate on a cruise. For example, Norwegian Cruise Lines features a group deal that offers bonuses for every five cabins booked. People traveling on group deals may qualify for bonus packages that include food and drinks, excursions, free WiFi, and more.

6. Book Well in Advance…Or Last Minute

Popular cruises, particularly the more luxurious ones, tend to fill up quickly. And the best rates are usually available when tickets first go on sale, which can be as much as a year and a half in advance. After tickets begin to sell (often between November and March, when promotions kick in) and the sail date nears, prices typically start to rise. The other benefit of booking early is that you’re more likely to get your choice of cabin and dining options. Early bookers may also get access to other special perks, like free airfare, upgrades, and free drinks.

That said, there are also plenty of stories of people scoring incredible last-minute deals on cruises. As the departure date grows closer, if a ship hasn’t sold out, the cruise line may offer serious incentives in order to fill up those empty rooms.

7. Sail During Shoulder Season

Determining peak cruising season when demand is the highest can be tricky because of all the variables involved. First and foremost (and perhaps most obviously), different parts of the world experience the seasons and corresponding vacations at different times. So peak season in one part of the world may be very different from peak season in another.

Many think that off-peak season, when demand is the lowest, is the best time to find a cruise deal, though that may not always be the case. If a cruise line cuts back on the supply of cruises too much because of seasonal drops in demand, there may not be many deals or even much availability to be found.

That’s why many point to “shoulder season,” the period between the peak and off-peak seasons, as the best time to find deals on cruises. Keep in mind that the weather might not be as great as it is during peak season, but you’re also more likely to avoid crowds both on the boat and on shore excursions. You’ll also want to consider seasonality when looking for the cheapest days to fly to and from your cruise’s point of departure and return.

8. Check for Special Discounts

Factors such as what organizations you’re a member of and where you live can help you lower the price of your dream cruise, whether that means exploring the Mediterranean or waters around Mexico.

You may find that belonging to a group like AARP can score you a cruise discount. In fact, American Express and other card issuers may offer cruise benefits. There may also be general discounts for seniors, military families, teachers, and even frequent cruisers.

You might also be able to take advantage of resident cruise deals if you live in a particular area. Carnival, for example, offers deals to residents of states including Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

9. Pay in Full

Even if you’ve found a fantastic deal on a cruise, vacations are expensive, so it’s important to consider your financial options. If you don’t have the funds to cover the entire cost of the trip, then you may want to consider waiting until you do.

Keep in mind that if you put the trip on a credit card and carry that balance over from month to month, you’ll be paying relatively high interest rates, perhaps 20% or higher. That adds to the cost of the trip significantly, even if you’re using a  cash back rewards credit card .

Some people opt to use  personal loans for vacations , which typically come with lower interest rates than credit cards. But personal loans, though often more affordable than credit cards, aren’t free, and they’ll add to your vacation budget as well.

10. Maintain a Budget

When planning your cruise, it’s important to drill down and really think through the budget. If you don’t have a truly all-inclusive deal, you’ll want to to itemize everything, such as:

• Cruise tickets
• Ground transportation
• Food and drinks
• On-ship entertainment
• Travel insurance
• International calls
• Fees for any  travel visas
• Currency exchange

There are plenty of great budgeting trackers that can help you monitor spending on vacation and more. But when it comes to vacation planning, it’s best to earmark the money before you’ve spent it, add a cushion of 10% or 20% to cover the unexpected, and then stick to it. You’ll enjoy the vacation more knowing that you’ve got it covered and won’t stress out when it’s over because you’ve spent more than you can afford.

Also don’t forget to see how you might apply your  credit card rewards for travel ; you might be able to apply cash back or otherwise lower costs this way.

The Takeaway

Taking a cruise doesn’t have to be expensive. If you’re wondering how to get cheap cruise tickets, there are luckily myriad ways you can get cruise discounts, ranging from going during the off or shoulder seasons to bundling your vacation expenses.

This article originally appeared on  SoFi.com  and was syndicated by  MediaFeed.org .

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment AdvisorSoFi isn’t recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Information about SoFi Wealth’s advisory operations, services, and fees is set forth in SoFi Wealth’s current Form ADV Part 2 (Brochure), a copy of which is available upon request and at  www.adviserinfo.sec.gov . Liz Young is a Registered Representative of SoFi Securities and Investment Advisor Representative of SoFi Wealth. Her ADV 2B is available at  www.sofi.com/legal/adv .

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The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

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*** Shipboard Credit - Terms and Conditions: Valid on all cruises booked through Dreams Unlimited Travel. Travel must be completed by 12/31/2025.  Shipboard credit amount is based on total amount of reservation with Dreams Unlimited Travel including taxes, transfers, trip insurance and pre- and post-night stays. Shipboard credit does not reflect pre-paid gratuities or other amounts such as gifts placed on room folio. This offer cannot be combined with any other shipboard credit or discount offer from Dreams Unlimited Travel including, but not limited to, those associated with group space or previous rebate and/or shipboard credit promotions. This shipboard credit offer excludes the $99 DCL bounce back offer.  This offer can be combined with the Disney Visa shipboard credit promotion if available and/or with the discount/shipboard credit from onboard bookings. Shipboard credit has no cash value outside of a Disney Cruise Line sailing and must be used while onboard the actual sailing booked.  Any unused portion of shipboard credit reverts back to Dreams Unlimited Travel.  No portion of the shipboard credit can be issued as cash, check or refund. This offer cannot be applied towards any active reservation booked.

I have read, and agree to the Terms and Conditions as outlined on this site.  At such time that I present a form of payment to secure a reservation, I understand and agree to all terms, conditions and cancellation policies as set forth by Walt Disney Travel and the Walt Disney Company. By submitting data to Dreams Unlimited Travel to begin the process of transferring your existing reservation as entered above (you will receive additional information throughout this process).   If you are only looking for a comparative rate, and do not wish to transfer your existing reservation at this time, DO NOT hit submit. Instead, use your browsers Back button to return to the previous page and select the form for a new reservation.

Protect Your Trip »

Cruise vs. all-inclusive resort: 3 questions to ask.

Find out the pros and cons of each and see which option is right for you.

Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort

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Key Takeaways

• If you don't want to fly, cruises set sail from many ports in the U.S., whereas most top all-inclusives require an international flight to the Caribbean or elsewhere.
• To visit numerous places, a cruise may be best. To relax in one place, opt for an all-inclusive resort or a large ship with plenty of amenities.
• There are many hidden costs on a cruise that will quickly add up, so an all-inclusive resort or even a luxury cruise with all-inclusive pricing can often be better for budgeting.

If you're trying to decide whether you should book a cruise or stay at an all-inclusive resort for your next vacation, there are a lot of factors to consider. Beyond selecting a destination – and deciding how far you're willing to travel to get there – you'll need to determine what type of experience you're looking for and what's included in the price of each option. After all, there's nothing worse than having a stress-free trip turn into sticker shock when you review the final bill.

There are many similarities between cruises and all-inclusive resorts. Both offer family-friendly and adults-only options. You'll have a selection of accommodations to choose from, several complimentary dining options and entertainment that's covered in the price. But there are also quite a few differences, especially when you're comparing a cruise line where you start with a base fare and then have to pay for all the extras – like beverage packages for nonalcoholic and alcoholic drinks, specialty dining venues, Wi-Fi, excursions, and other amenities that may be covered at an all-inclusive resort.

To help you decide, U.S. News compiled a list of key questions to consider when deciding between a land- or sea-based vacation, along with suggestions for some cruise line and all-inclusive resort options. If staying within a set budget is a top priority, make sure you read the fine print before you book – whether you're setting sail on the high seas or relaxing poolside at a beachfront property.

Find your perfect cruise

Am I willing to fly to my destination?

Before you find yourself sipping umbrella drinks with a good book in hand, you'll have to put in the work of traveling to your destination.

Visiting an all-inclusive resort in Mexico or the Caribbean will most likely require an international flight, but you may also need to hop on a plane to reach your chosen cruise ship terminal. If you don't want to travel too far from home, many ships sail from popular ports in Florida cities – including Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville and Port Canaveral (Orlando) – and travelers outside of the Sunshine State can find sailings out of ports in California, Texas, New York, Louisiana and other U.S. states. Depending on where you live, you may be able to save yourself a flight (and some money) by driving directly to your embarkation port.

You might be surprised to find that you can even book extended grand voyages and world cruises to travel around the world for months at a time from U.S. ports. Holland America Line 's 124-Day Grand World Voyage sails round-trip from Fort Lauderdale in January 2025 and includes ports of call in 32 countries. If you're considering a luxury cruise, Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' 154-day world cruise, called The Sense of Adventure, sets sail round-trip from Miami in January 2026 and visits 41 countries across six continents.

All-inclusive resorts

While most all-inclusive vacations will require an international trip, it is possible to book an all-inclusive resort – or a property with all-inclusive packages – without traveling too far from home. There are a number of all-inclusive options in the U.S. , including a couple all-inclusives in Florida . Consider Bungalows Key Largo , which caters to travelers 21 and older in the Florida Keys, or the family-friendly Sandpiper Bay Resort in Port St. Lucie. (Note: Sandpiper Bay has been undergoing major renovations and is expected to be fully operational by winter 2024-2025.)

Some properties across the U.S., including certain wellness retreats , also offer special packages to create your own all-inclusive experience. For example, health- and wellness-focused Miraval Arizona in Tucson, Arizona, has a deal that includes spa-inspired accommodations, meals, nightly resort credits, fitness classes, lectures, access to resort amenities and airport transfers.

Many dude ranches , such as White Stallion Ranch , which is also located in Tucson, offer add-on packages that make vacations nearly all-inclusive. White Stallion's Full American Plan Outdoor Adventure Package covers lodging, three meals a day, Wi-Fi access, evening entertainment, horseback riding, airport transfers and additional amenities with extended stays. If you're considering a land-based getaway, check out the available packages at resorts near you to weigh all of your options.

What do I want to do more: relax or explore?

Before you start planning your dream getaway, consider your fundamental objectives. How do you want to spend your vacation? Do you want to explore multiple destinations in one trip or fully unwind in one relaxing locale? Maybe you'd prefer to sit by a cruise ship's pool by day then dine and bar-hop at night, never once stepping foot in a port of call.

Cruises are a great option when you want to visit several locales in one vacation but aren't concerned with spending a lot of time in any one place. They're also perfect for getting an overview of a region, such as the Caribbean or the Mediterranean .

If you want to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations instead of busier, more popular ports, consider itineraries offered by cruise lines with smaller ships that can navigate narrower waterways than larger ocean liners. For example, Windstar Cruises' ships carry between 148 and 342 passengers. The line's small ships can visit small Greek islands, remote Tahitian villages, and off-the-beaten path destinations in Northern Europe, in addition to sailing the only navigable river in Spain, the Guadalquivir.

Still, for some cruisers, the ship itself is the destination. The details of the itinerary might not matter much if you plan to spend most of your time relaxing on board. Newer and larger ships , like Royal Caribbean International 's Icon of the Seas, offer seemingly endless dining and entertainment options. As the largest ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet, the vessel carries 5,610 passengers based on double occupancy (with a maximum capacity of 7,600). Icon of the Seas boasts eight themed neighborhoods, plus adrenaline-pumping activities like a 46-foot-tall waterslide at Thrill Island and mesmerizing shows performed at the line's largest ice arena, Absolute Zero.

If you wait to set sail until April 2025, you can book a voyage on MSC Cruises ' newest vessel, MSC World America. The line's futuristically designed megaship will have the capacity for as many as 6,764 passengers (5,228 double occupancy). It'll feature many bells and whistles, including the Cliffhanger, a thrilling over-water swing ride – and the only one of its kind at sea. The ship will also be home to the largest MSC Yacht Club in the fleet, offering exclusive venues, luxe accommodations and 24-hour butler service.

If a relaxing land-based experience sounds more your speed, an all-inclusive resort may be a better option. You can spend your time taking advantage of luxurious resort amenities and exploring the surrounding areas.

The Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, offers family-friendly accommodations and activities, as well as romantic oceanfront suites with plunge pools and spa bathrooms for couples. The resort also has an impressive selection of bars and internationally inspired restaurants, including Michelin-starred Cocina de Autor. During the day, sign up for therapeutic spa treatments for an additional fee or enjoy complimentary water activities like kayaking and snorkeling. The property also offers an eco-tour in the Mayan jungle, or you can explore ancient ruins in nearby Tulum on an off-property excursion.

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What inclusions are most important to me?

Another variable to consider is the price you'll pay for a cruise or all-inclusive resort – and what exactly is covered. What do you absolutely need and what you can live without?

Cruise costs

Taking a cruise can be a great value , but it's important to note that inexpensive base fares aboard large, mainstream cruise lines can often be misleading. You'll likely have to add in additional costs for taxes, fees and port charges; gratuities; stateroom upgrades; specialty dining and beverage packages ; excursions; and Wi-Fi access. The total price of your voyage may end up much higher than you expected. You may also be surprised to find that services that were once complimentary may now cost extra. For example, Royal Caribbean International now charges a convenience fee, plus an 18% tip for room service, no matter the size of your order.

To avoid surprise extra fees throughout your trip, consider sailing with a luxury line like adults-only Viking . Although such cruises come at a higher price point, Viking fares cover all meals (including specialty dining venues), beer and wine with lunch and dinner, nonalcoholic beverages and bottled water, one shore excursion in each port, onboard Wi-Fi access, and more. Similarly, in one upfront fare, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises prices typically include round-trip airfare, airport transfers, land packages before or after your voyage, complimentary shore excursions, specialty dining, premium alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, valet laundry service, prepaid gratuities, and other perks.

For a more thorough breakdown, consult our guide on how much a cruise costs and read about the top all-inclusive cruises .

All-inclusive resort costs

When it comes to all-inclusive resorts, be sure to research what is included in the nightly rate before you book. Couples-only Sandals Resorts properties in the Caribbean, for example, offer some of the most inclusive resort pricing setups available. Rates cover accommodations, gourmet dining at up to 16 restaurants, snacks, premium wines and liquors, stocked in-room bars, water sports, PADI-certified scuba diving, entertainment, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, and airport transfers. Extra fees apply for spa treatments, local excursions and personalized events, like private dinners on the beach.

Other resort brands may not offer such an extensive list of included perks, so be sure to check with the specific property you are interested in. Some resorts even offer deals for kids to stay free .

If you want all the meals, beverages, entertainment, activities, Wi-Fi access and other amenities included in the price, then an all-inclusive option is your best choice. You'll know the cost at the beginning of the trip and won't have to worry about extras unless you splurge on spa treatments, celebratory bottles of fine wine or Champagne (not included in the fare), or personal expenses like souvenirs.

Cruise accommodations

Space is another issue to consider when deciding what you want included in your vacation. Cruise ship cabins can be tight, especially if you're traveling with another person or an entire family. The good news is that there are plenty of choices when it comes to stateroom sizes and configurations, depending on the cruise line and specific ship you choose. Cabins can be as compact as 100 square feet (in the case of Norwegian Epic 's Solo Studios for solo cruisers ) or as vast as 4,443 square feet (in Seven Seas Grandeur 's lavish two-bedroom Regent Suite).

If space is important to you, plan to budget for a larger cabin, or one with a veranda. The addition of a balcony offers extra seating, natural light and outdoor access that makes a small room feel much more spacious.

For even more space, consider splurging on a suite, which may also add valuable perks like complimentary spirits, in-suite afternoon tea, butler service and onboard credit. Some suites are designed with families in mind, such as the Ultimate Family Suite on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas . The two-story accommodation features an indoor slide, a private game and movie room, a hot tub, ocean views, and VIP experiences across the ship.

All-inclusive resort accommodations

Back on land, hotel rooms and suites at all-inclusive resorts will typically be more spacious than most cruise ship accommodations, meaning you'll have more square footage to spread out.

At the family-friendly all-inclusive Windjammer Landing in Castries, St. Lucia, accommodations run the gamut from 444-square-foot ocean view rooms for two to 1,385-square-foot, two-bedroom suites that can accommodate up to six people. The property also boasts a selection of luxury beachfront villas that measure up to 4,200 square feet.

Cruise entertainment and dining

Before choosing between a cruise or an all-inclusive resort, think about the entertainment and dining options offered by each. On large cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean, you can find infinite eateries, Vegas-style nightly entertainment and adults-only nightclubs that stay open into the wee hours of the morning. There are also fun-filled activities for younger travelers, like racetracks, laser tag, aqua parks, rock climbing walls and rope courses.

Not all these activities will be included in your fare, so you can choose to pay as you go or purchase packages that offer unlimited access to some attractions. Fitness classes, spa access and entry into adults-only lounge areas may also come with a fee, as can soft drinks and bottled water throughout the day (unless you have a beverage package).

Smaller, more intimate ships still offer plenty of fun – albeit with fewer crowds. Cruisers can choose from several dining venues, some of which change their menus daily. Smaller ships will also typically have a few bars or lounges that host entertainment for more mature, refined audiences (think: piano players or other live music in the evenings), plus theaters that feature a different show each night. Still, you might find fun-loving passengers on the dance floor late at night and DJs spinning karaoke tunes at lounges on the ship.

All-inclusive resort entertainment and dining

All-inclusive resorts typically offer a wide range of on-site dining venues, entertainment, activities and amenities as well. For example, the gated 7,000-acre Caso de Campo Resort & Villas in the Dominican Republic features three golf courses, an equestrian center, tennis courts, skeet and trap shooting, water sports, and more. Packages at the resort include accommodations, all meals and beverages, and access to most (or all) of these activities.

Resorts may also feature more unique amenities than cruise ships. For example, at Caso de Campo, guests can visit Altos de Chavón. Inspired by a 16th-century Mediterranean village, this impressive replica of a medieval hamlet is home to local artisans and boutiques. There's also an archaeological museum, the St. Stanislaus Church, a 5,000-seat amphitheater, and panoramic views of the Chavón River and the Caribbean Sea.

Once you've figured out your travel goals and have decided between a cruise or an all-inclusive resort, you can narrow down your options. Regardless of your selection, always verify what's included in the price. You don't want any surprises at the end of your dream vacation.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. Cruising is one of her favorite ways to travel, and she hopes to book an extended cruise to see the rest of the world someday soon. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Adults-Only Cruises
• The Top Affordable All-Inclusive Resorts
• The Best Affordable Cruises
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials Chosen by Experts
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Hotels and Resorts , All-Inclusive Vacations

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• Search forums
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• Disney Cruise Line Forum

Travel Agents with best OBC

• Thread starter Ohmymonty
• Start date Sep 6, 2022

Mouseketeer

• Sep 6, 2022

Hey all! Remember back in the day when Disney gave on board credit for booking a cruise while on board? I guess they don't do that anymore...This is the first time I've used an on board reservation since covid so, it was news to me. I've used Small World Vacations for the last 10 years because they were referred to me and I didn't have any reason why not. Their policy had always been (I think) to offer half the OBC they would give normally when using a placeholder reservation. It didn't bother me before because I got the extra OBC from DCL . So for example, I think before the policy was $100 from DCL for cruises under 7 days ($200 for 7 or more). Then Small World Vacations gave me credit based on cruise fare. For my upcoming cruise, their grid says I should have gotten $100 for booking through them. But that $100 is really $50 because of the placeholder reservation. So by old rules I would have ended up with $150 OBC. By the new rules, I only get $50 because of the placeholder reservation. SO my question is: does anyone else use a travel agency that doesn't change their OBC offerings if you have a reservation you made while onboard? Or does anyone use a travel agency that is better than others in terms of OBC offerings? Always trying to get more bang for my buck. Thanks!  

Retired and living 2 miles from The Castle.

Please be aware that the DIS Boards are sponsored by Dreams Unlimited Travel . Discussion of others TA's is discouraged so it will be difficult to get good answers to this question.  

Buzz & Woody

Costco is the answer  

A guy can love Disney and still keep his man card!

I received an excellent $300 OBC from Dreams Unlimited for my cruise coming up in December. But more importantly the service and communication has been excellent. This is my first time using Dreams Unlimited and it will not be the last time that I use them.  

OKW Lover said: Please be aware that the DIS Boards are sponsored by Dreams Unlimited Travel . Discussion of otters TA's is discouraged so it will be difficult to get good answers to this question. Click to expand...

DIS Veteran

Except for Costco, you're going to get the same OBC pretty much anywhere. Disney kind of changed the rules and made it harder to add credits for some reason, but I think most agents are still using the old OBC schedule that everyone used a few years ago.  

We used Dreams unlimited and were happy with them.  

Kwami said: Except for Costco, you're going to get the same OBC pretty much anywhere. Disney kind of changed the rules and made it harder to add credits for some reason, but I think most agents are still using the old OBC schedule that everyone used a few years ago. Click to expand...

DCL revamped their commissions a few years ago. I think they may limit how much can be passed along to the customer. And transferred cruises are paid lower (half?) commission -- so that includes placeholders/OBBs. It might be full commission if the TA is named from the start. The agencies that do a lot of DCL bookings will probably offer more OBC than your local mom-and-pop TA who only books a couple of DCL cruises in a year, some of whom don't offer OBC (though they might offer something else). Costco is the outlier as they apparently offer approx. 8% "cash card" post-cruise, and if you are an executive member another 2%. Some policies may vary from one agency to another, so if you are interested in one (or more) you may want to contact and ask specifically. Many post a table of expected OBC. Some may also charge change fees and/or cancellation fees, so be sure you know the policies of the agency you decide to use.  

lanejudy said: DCL revamped their commissions a few years ago. I think they may limit how much can be passed along to the customer. And transferred cruises are paid lower (half?) commission -- so that includes placeholders/OBBs. It might be full commission if the TA is named from the start. Click to expand...

Yes Disney stopped giving OBC with their onboard bookings a few years ago. For our June 2022 cruise, we were happy that we could still use our 2018 placeholder from a cancelled 2020 cruise so we got our final $200 OBC from Disney (as well as the 10% off) and $225 in OBC from Dreams Unlimited. Dreams Unlimited gives more OBC for booking directly thru them, and half that amount for on board bookings and transfers, since they receive half the commission for those bookings.  

Kwami said: Yeah, Disney went and made things complicated. The OBC used to be pretty much standard across all agencies. Then, Disney changed the system so that it's harder to give OBC. This was especially true after the restart. My TA was telling me that instead of being able to add OBC directly, he had to buy OBC from Disney's website, just like anyone else can. It might be better now, though. I'm not sure. Anyway, TAs get half commission for existing reservations that are transferred to them. They get full commission for reservations initially assigned to them. So, if you know that you're going to use a particular TA for your next cruise, then make sure that you name that TA on your onboard booking placeholder. Click to expand...

plutolovr said: This is incorrect. Any booking made onboard, whether or not you assign it to a travel agency from the beginning or transfer it when you get home, will only get a reduced onboard credit from most travel agencies. The commission structure on onboard reservations is different from reservations booked "new". If you weren't aware, the onboard credit comes from the commission the agent receives, so they are basically giving you part of their earnings, so when they get less, you get less. Click to expand...

DVCSunDevil

• Feb 7, 2023

I am late to this thread, but you may want to check out *************.com. We used them and they are great. We are about to book an Adventures by Disney trip with them, also. They were referred to us by someone else who used them, so it seems they have a good reputation. I am not sure what they can do specifically for OBC on Disney cruises, but it doesn't hurt to give them a call.  

Kwami said: I've confirmed with my travel agent that, as long as I assign the OBB placeholder to him when I make it, he gets full commission. If I don't assign it to him when I book it, then it counts as a transfer and he gets only half commission. Maybe he's special. Click to expand...

happycamper47

The TA I use works diligently to get my reservations or the partucular cabin we want. He is saving me hours of frustration and aggrevation. Personally the service level provided is primary and the OBC is secondary. I normally hear back in less than an hr when emailing. Also remember, for many TA 's it is their main source of income.  

plutolovr said: He probably only gets 10% commission from them. Travel agencies with more bookings with DCL get more commission, but only 10% for onboard bookings and transfers. Click to expand...

• Feb 8, 2023

USAA.com is great if you’re a USAA member.  

I have used https://www.cruisesonly.com/ In the past. Some credit or cash back was great in terms of the actual $$ amount (best I could find) but service was only OK. So I moved on.  

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