Professor Melissa's Cruise Pod

Are Cruise Ships Really Floating Petri Dishes?

Are cruise ships really floating petri dishes, or do they just get blamed more when illness makes headlines? Let's talk more! **Disgusting Things People Saw on Cruise Ships** https://youtu.be/9_KMeeP5UGU [https://youtu.be/9_KMeeP5UGU] **Travel Insurance for Cruisers** https://www.profmelissa.com/travelinsurance [https://www.profmelissa.com/travelinsurance]

Cruising Isn't All Inclusive Anymore

Are cruise vacations still a good value when so many “included” perks now come with a separate charge? Cruising used to feel simple, but in 2026, many cruise lines are changing what all-inclusive really means. In this video, we discuss how rising gratuities, drink package costs, room service fees, WiFi pricing, late-night kids club charges, and Virgin Voyages’ new daily gratuity structure are adding new costs to perks cruisers once expected to be part of the fare. Before you book your next Carnival, Princess, MSC, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, Holland America, or Virgin Voyages sailing, it is worth knowing where those extra charges may show up.

Is Carnival Still the Best Value in Cruising?

Is Carnival still the best value cruise line, or has the math changed? In this video, we look at why Carnival’s low base fares still matter, but why gratuities, drink packages, Wi-Fi, private island costs, and loyalty program changes can shift the real price fast. **Cruise loyalty program** https://youtu.be/6UVutctW4lo?si=Fp1y0hwtITCvByLG [https://youtu.be/6UVutctW4lo?si=Fp1y0hwtITCvByLG] **Looking for a Travel Agent?** https://www.profmelissa.com/travelagent [https://www.profmelissa.com/travelagent]

Should You Actually Remove Your Auto Gratuities?

Should you keep automatic cruise gratuities on your bill, remove them at guest services, or tip crew members directly in cash? Cruise tipping has become one of the most debated topics at sea as daily gratuities, drink service charges, and add-on costs keep rising across major cruise lines. In this video, we discuss what automatic gratuities actually cover, why the cruise gratuity system feels frustrating for passengers, how behind-the-scenes crew members are affected, and why the real issue may be less about individual cruisers and more about how cruise lines structure crew pay. Whether you sail Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Margaritaville at Sea, Virgin Voyages, Carnival, MSC, or another cruise line, this is a practical look at cruise tipping, service charges, and what to consider before making your choice.

9 Things Only Pro Cruisers Know First Timer Guide

What if your first cruise could feel easier before you even get to the port? A smoother cruise starts with a few smart choices before embarkation day. In this video, we discuss first cruise tips experienced cruisers use to save money, avoid long lines, pack smarter, prevent surprise charges, and feel more prepared on board. From carry-on bags and cruise security rules to drink packages, shore excursions, seasickness, luggage, onboard accounts, and gratuities, this guide helps you cruise with more confidence and fewer beginner mistakes. **Get Help Booking Your Next Cruise** https://www.profmelissa.com/book **FREE Casino Cruise** https://urcomped.com/Affiliate/LandingPage/60?src=profmelissa **Packing for a cruise essentials** https://www.profmelissa.com/blog/cruisepacking **Cruise essential favorites** https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr_melissa_newman?ccs_id=773fdd6b-c126-433e-9f36-a612cb682488