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In episode 30 of the Suite Natured Cruise Cast we were inspired by JJ Cruises' recent solo cruises, to talk about whether some types of cruises are better solo, especially if one of you has more of an interest in a certain cruise type?

As usual, the Cruise Cast is recorded in real time, unscripted and unedited, so anything can happen, and we never quite know where a conversation is going to go

We also give our thoughts on a few of the recent cruise news stories to get our teeth into, including the recent P&O Aurora last minute cancellation

00:00 Introduction to Solo Cruising

01:03 Inspiration Behind Solo Cruising

02:26 Dream Scenarios for Solo Cruises

05:29 Concerns and Expectations of Solo Cruising

10:10 Dining Experiences as a Solo Cruiser

15:44 Exploring Cultural Interests in Solo Travel

20:45 Cruise News and Updates

23:15 P&O Cruise Cancellation Controversy

29:41 Disney's New Ship and Adult Offerings

34:58 Princess Cruise Package Changes

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Linzi & Mark

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Booking to go on a cruises Maiden voyage use to be a bucket list for many cruisers, but since 2020, so many of these first (or first few) cruises are having major issues. From entertainment and restaurants not being ready, to unfinished construction work, and even engine problems; and in Episode 29 of the Suite Natured Cruise Cast, we ask, "Is A Maiden Voyage Just Too Risky?"

We talk about our own experiences aboard maiden voyages, as well as looking at other more recent challenges with delays and problems such as NCL Aqua, Cunards' Queen Anne and Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady.

We also give our thoughts on a few of the recent cruise news stories and have a bit of a saucy confession from one of our listeners/watchers, which sparks an interesting conversation about Late Night Linzi!

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Linzi & Mark

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Maiden Voyages
01:34 Defining Maiden Voyages
02:25 Recent Problematic Maiden Voyages
05:59 Challenges Faced by New Ships
09:39 Pros and Cons of Booking a Maiden Voyage
18:07 Unique Experiences on Maiden Voyages
20:55 Tips for Booking a Maiden Voyage
23:20 Cruise Confessions and Stories
28:15 Cruise News and Updates

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If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

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Linzi & Mark

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In this episode, having just returned from our first Windstar Cruise, we explore the concept of luxury in travel, particularly focusing on whether luxury experiences are exclusive to smaller ships and yachts; or can the bigger ships compare?

We share our personal experiences aboard a small yacht, discussing the exceptional service, culinary delights, and intimate entertainment options that contribute to a luxurious atmosphere. We look at the differences in service levels and food quality between small and large cruise ships

We also take a look at a few of the recent news stories in the cruise industry and have a confession from one of our listeners/watchers.

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Linzi & Mark

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In episode 27 of the Cruise Cast, which is also it's first anniversary, we are looking awkward moments experienced while cruising.

As usual we share personal anecdotes and scenarios that highlight the humorous and uncomfortable situations that can arise on a cruise, from art galleries to dining experiences.

As usual we also take a look at the some of the rcent recent cruise news, including the departure of a notable captain and the trial of a beverage package by Virgin Voyages.

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Linzi & Mark

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This episode of the Cruise Cast explores the seemingly ever increasing size of cruise ships, deliberating whether larger ships enhance or detract from the cruise experience. We discuss the balance between passenger convenience and the thrill of mega ships and we have a new Cruise Confession and our take on recent cruise news.

00:00 Introduction to Cruise Ship Size
02:25 Pros of Larger Cruise Ships
09:59 Challenges of Big Ships in Ports
14:47 The Experience of Crowded Destinations
19:55 Cruise Confessions and Personal Stories
30:10 Cruise News and Innovations

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Linzi & Mark

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams

Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark

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In this episode of the Suite Natured Cruise Cast, we delve into the topic of bedtime on cruises, discussing the importance of a comfortable bed, the best locations for sleep on a cruise ship, and the various cruise lines that offer the best sleeping experiences.

We also touch on the role of TV in bedtime routines, the significance of night lights, and share exciting cruise news, including Celebrity's new river cruise venture and the development of a new cruise port in Belfast.

00:00 Setting the Mood for Bedtime on Cruises
01:55 The Importance of a Comfy Bed
06:00 Best Locations for Sleep on a Cruise
09:03 Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Sleep1
1:52 Evaluating Cruise Ship Beds
14:00 What Makes a Good Sleep Experience?
19:05 The Role of TV in Bedtime Routines
22:13 Night Lights and Other Sleep Essentials
24:20 Cruise News: Celebrity's New River Cruises
37:01 Belfast's New Cruise Port
38:55 Southampton's Record-Breaking Year

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If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

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Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark

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Ever imagined sailing the seas with your favorite sci-fi characters or rocking out at a Rock Festival at sea? Linz and Marky are your captains on a whimsical voyage through the world of themed cruises. We kick off with the allure of immersive experiences like the Star Trek cruise, where fans can mingle with celebrities and participate in exclusive activities, and compare it to other niche themes such as crafting or even solving puzzles on the "Puzzled About Everything" cruise. With the unique blend of rock and wrestling on Chris Jericho's Rock and Wrestling Rager at Sea, we uncover how these cruises offer something for every enthusiast despite their premium price tags.

Our journey continues as we chart a course through alternative lifestyle cruises. From the vibrant allure of the Atlantis cruise, a favorite among the LGBTQ+ community, to the leather-clad adventures of Harley Davidson enthusiasts, Linz and Marky paint a vivid picture of these floating festivals. Personal stories and unexpected surprises add a humorous twist, like glittery decks and blacklight mishaps, making these cruises a tapestry of diverse experiences that are as unique as the passengers themselves.

Finally, let your imagination run wild with dream-themed cruise ideas that are as entertaining as they are bizarre. Explore the concept of a Smallville-themed Cruiseville Cruise, set for 2025, or the hilariously impractical Meow Meow cat-themed cruise. With playful "what ifs" like a CM Punk-themed cruise and historical nods to wrestling's ancient beginnings, Linz and Marky wrap up with a lighthearted exploration of the endless possibilities in the world of themed cruising, leaving you eager for your next fantastical voyage. Grab a drink, sit back, and prepare for a ride through the vibrant and often humorous seas of themed cruises!

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Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark

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In our look back at our (nearly) first year of the Suite Natured Cruise Cast, we've put together our favourite bits, and some of our favourite (or least favourite) "Mood Music".

With contributions from many of our special guest co-hosts too.

Ever wondered if a catchy intro track could make or break a podcast episode? We certainly have, and our quest to find the perfect mood music has taken us on a wild ride, from the swashbuckling notes of Pirates of the Caribbean to the unexpected charm of an '80s sitcom theme. Join us as we share our musical misadventures and a hilarious tale from a recent cruise to Albania with Virgin Voyages that involved an impromptu wine hangar tour. It’s all about embracing the quirky side of travel and podcasting with a smile.

Indulge your taste buds as we recount our culinary adventures aboard various cruise lines, where the bread at the Veranda Restaurant and a cardamom-infused bread and butter pudding from Sindhu reign supreme. Our gastronomic journey wouldn't be complete without a nod to the exceptional risotto from the Eden Restaurant. Of course, we can't help but vent about the sky-high prices and relentless upselling at cruise spas. Our passion for cruising began with unforgettable experiences on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas and NCL Epic, and we’re excited to share those cherished moments with you.

For those wondering about the true value of butler services or the practicality of drink packages, our candid chat covers it all. From a laugh-out-loud incident involving a cheese box to the perils of keeping clothes clean amidst oil spills, our experiences highlight the ups and downs of cruise life. Dive into our discussion on the pricing frustrations surrounding onboard drink packages and how some shrewd Black Friday deals helped ease the sting. With an upcoming trip on the Queen Victoria on the horizon, we're all set for new adventures and more stories to tell.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams

Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark