Drinks packages can feel like a bit of a gamble, but Claire cracked the code. She opted for the soft drinks package for her family, costing £42 per day for all four of them. Considering a single Coke or juice hovers around £3.50, it didn’t take long to feel the value. But here’s the clever twist: when it came to her evening vodka and Coke, she only paid for the spirit; the mixer was already covered. It’s these little wins that add up, keeping things easy to budget without ever feeling restrictive.

Nobody boards a cruise dreaming of standing in line. Thankfully, you don’t have to. The My Holiday app lets you join virtual queues for restaurants, meaning you can secure your spot while lounging by the pool or finishing that final chapter. It’s the kind of small innovation that makes a big difference, less waiting, more wandering, and a holiday that flows exactly as it should.

It’s easy to overlook, but your cabin fridge might just become your favourite feature. Claire’s tip? Skip the balancing act at the buffet and arrange for a splash of milk to be delivered to your cabin via room service instead. So in the mornings, you’ve got everything you need for a slow, quiet coffee on your balcony; sea stretching out before you, the ship gently humming along. It’s a simple ritual, but one that feels wonderfully indulgent.

If you’re picturing rigid dress rules, think again. Cruise style is wonderfully flexible. Want to dress up? There’s a space for that. Prefer something more laid-back? That works too. The beauty is in the choice; no pressure, no overthinking, just outfits that match your mood, with effortless elegance and a touch of personality. It’s your holiday, after all.

Late-night cravings don’t stand a chance on board. Between 10 and 11 pm, the buffet becomes a haven for night owls. Claire’s highlights? The steaming mugs of hot chocolate, oversized cookies, generous cheese boards, and even a proper curry if you’re feeling bold. It’s comfort food, elevated by the fact that you’re enjoying it out at sea.

Not all sun loungers are created equal. Claire’s go-to? The infinity pool at the back of the ship. It’s where the horizon feels endless, the atmosphere is a touch more relaxed, and the cocktails somehow taste even better. Add in a round of crazy golf nearby, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect sea day, effortlessly balanced between doing very little and exactly enough.

Food is, of course, a highlight, but some spots shine brighter than others. For Claire, it was the 6th Street Diner. Think indulgent plates: mac ‘n’ cheese, chicken, waffles, stacked burgers, and desserts that deserve their own moment. It’s also a brilliant shout for a late breakfast, it’s all included and all delicious. The kind of place you’ll return to… more than once.