best caribbean cruise ship

2022.07.31
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best caribbean cruise ship

Wide variety of dining, including Asian venue by renowned chef Roy Yamaguchi. The self-described fun ship line is all about fun in a very loud sort of way.

Not to mention the best theater in the world, the Caribbean ocean with a ceiling of stars! Learn more. You can use ABTA's approved Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process if you have a complaint that is not resolved. The Bahamas, a series of islands with sparkling waters and pristine beaches, is a top Caribbean cruise destination. Piazza atrium offers restaurants, bars and entertainment. Pamper yourself in the Lotus Spa with a massage, facial or manicure, and feel renewed. 19952022, The Independent Traveler, Inc. In part because of its low prices, Carnival has a huge following.

Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. But it's not all about food. The culture and history of the Caribbean is rich, varied and deep. Still, youll usually only see them in the Caribbean during the winter months. Excellent pools, including one tucked away on the back of the ship. They operate with around 2,200 crew.

This is, again, because of the incredible array of attractions their size allows. Cruise-selling websites list thousands of individual Caribbean sailings. Princess Cays, our Private Island resort, calls the Bahamas its home, and our guests get exclusive access to this tropical oasis on almost all Caribbean itineraries. The best for your kids? Relax on gorgeous white sand beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters, discover the ancient treasures of the Mayans, or let your cares melt away while relaxing to steel drum melodies. Multigenerational groups willing to splurge. Those looking for a bigger ship (and more options) not overrun with kids. Enjoy a ship full of activities for the whole family, from Broadway-style shows to Discoverys Shark Week all summer long, your family will be engaged in the Caribbean. seas aerial royalcaribbean But its right up there among the 15 biggest passenger vessels ever built. Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. Adventure lives around every corner. One of the best parts of a Caribbean cruise is the freedom to spend your days however you like. The good news is that, in the Caribbean at least, there really is something for everyone and not just when it comes to cruising. They also have a private lounge with a bar and television where solos can mingle at daily hosted happy hour gatherings.

Want to make the most of your time away? Top 5 Cruise Line Private Islands (Princess Cays). Carnival ships also can feel a bit cramped at times. Each season has a personality all its own. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation and the services of the representative. The 2,850-passenger ship is bold, chic and sophisticated -- from its decor, such as a live tree adorning the atrium, to its features, which include some of the best dining in mainstream cruising as well as a wide variety of suites. Readers' Choice Awards: Best Cruise Itineraries, Year-round sailings. One side of the island, the aptly named Serenity Bay, is for grown-ups only. Hopscotching from island to island on the Royal Clipper, in particular, is an electrifying experience.

One of the ways that the company keeps its fares low is by jamming a lot of people onto its ships. On a Princess Cruise Lines Caribbean cruise, you can travel through dense jungles to explore Cozumels ancient Mayan ruins and exciting national parks; enjoy watersports at its private island resort, Princess Caysin the Bahamas; go swimming with stingrays in Grand Cayman; snorkel the worlds second-largest barrier reef in Belize; or go for a catamaran ride in Antigua. And you can post your experiences with ease, thanks to Princess MedallionNet, the best Wi-Fi at sea now on land! The 2,650-passenger ship, one of the more relaxed options in the Caribbean, looks and feels like the ocean liners of yesteryear -- with a modern twist. Whether youre a history-lover, adventure-seeker or laid-back traveler, discover the best Caribbean cruise destinations for any guest with Princess. Below, well help you narrow down the choices by looking at Caribbean cruises by broad category type. And our newest ships. Go swimming with stingrays in Grand Cayman, travel through dense jungles to hidden Mayan ruins on Cozumel, snorkel the worlds second largest barrier reef in Belize or sail on a thrilling catamaran in Antigua. Those who don't want to feel like they're on a cruise ship. When it comes to picking the best cruise in the Caribbean, as with picking the best cruise anywhere, a lot comes down to tastes and preferences. Ride horseback along the pristine coastline of Puerto Plata, Costa Rica. Plus, earn 3 ThankYou points per $1 at gas stations, restaurants, supermarkets and on air travel and hotels.

In Jamaicas Ocho Rios, you can swim with dolphins or climb a waterfall. With gorgeous white sand and warm, crystal clear azure waters, the Eastern Caribbean is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world as well as many of the regions most popular islands. With award-winning onboard programs, regional cuisine from world-class chefs andcelebrations of Caribbean life, Princess makes your ship a destination all its own. Caribbean is in the name after all! Multigenerational groups who don't need all the "mainstream gimmicks". Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival ships and itineraries.

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In addition to writing for Quillt sites such as SeniorsMatter.com and Oola.com, shes also written for Zumper.com and served as Oola's editor before becoming a Content Strategist for TravelAwaits. Traverse the Panama Canal, snorkel with sea turtles and parrotfish in St. Lucia, and ride horses on Half Moon Cay, the cruise lines exclusive private island in the Bahamas. From its culinary-focused shore excursions to its cooking classes, the luxurious 1,250-passenger ship satisfies every craving. From the offseason to the sunniest months to festival season, anytime is the best time to travel to the Caribbean. Meanwhile, passengers can still enjoy fun favorites like Movies Under the Stars on the pool deck (popcorn, blankets and ocean breezes included) and a bar-lined, high-energy atrium (known as the Piazza) that hosts activities, music and dancing. Almost all specialty restaurants are free of charge. See all Caribbean cruise articles and videos. There are supervised activities for kids as young as 3 years old. That said, most have a window that looks out onto a corridor. Those who want a more upscale feel without breaking the bank. More than 400 feet long with five masts and 42 sails, its one of the largest square-rigged sailing vessels in the world. For us, every day is a celebration.

This travel-lover's favorite destinations include Italy, the Greek isles, and Kentucky Lake. In this category, too, Royal Caribbeans Oasis Class ships often are touted as the vessels to beat. By contrast, most Royal Caribbean ships have space ratios above 40. If the above sounds downright insane to you, it is. Disney takes the cake when it comes to family cruising. One of TravelAwaits writer Peggy Clevelands favorite cruise lines, Holland America Line is also a favorite of our readers.

This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). Public spaces are more contemporary and boast a toned-down color scheme, contrary to Vista's flashy fleetmates; there's also a wider variety of restaurants, bars, entertainment and places to unwind.

With a wide variety of ships to choose from, 10 convenient departure ports, and itineraries that offer plenty of time in paradise, its easy to see why our readers love Norwegian Cruise Line. 2022 THE POINTS GUY, LLC. When it comes to catering to solo cruisers, the king of the hill in the Caribbean is Norwegian at least among the big-ship lines. The biggest resort in the U.S., The Venetian in Las Vegas, has 7,092 rooms. Also offering Caribbean voyages on sailing ships as well as small motor ships is Windstar. Wherever you visit, youll find delicious local flavors and some Caribbean rum!

The two Star Clippers vessels (the 170-passenger Star Flyer and 227-passenger Royal Clipper) are, notably, sailing ships. Those who want to take a trip back in time.

On sunny days, head to the Lawn Club for a game of bocce or a picnic with wine and cheese. Feed stingrays or paddle through the lagoon in a clear-bottom kayak. Are we surprised? Our cruise holidays are ATOL protected (No. Learn more about Eastern Caribbean Cruises. Sailing to the Caribbean out of Miami, the 3,998-passenger vessel isnt quite as big and activity-packed as the Oasis Class ships. In the family cruise arena, the big players in the Caribbean include Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line. Spring is the perfect time for renewal and relaxation. Another line thats shaping up to be a leader in the solo cruise market in the Caribbean is Virgin Voyages. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, Compare: 10 Best Cruise Ships in the Caribbean, Help Ukrainian Families in Need: World Central Kitchen Donation Match, Word on the Street: Allure of the Seas Reviews, 7 Things You Can Only Do on Carnival Vista, Word on the Street: Carnival Vista Reviews, Orlando (Port Canaveral), Miami and New York, 10 Things You Can Only Do on Norwegian Escape, Word on the Street: Norwegian Escape Reviews, 6 Ships With Over-the-Top Cruise Ship Decor, 5 Things You Can Only Find on MSC Seaside, Word on the Street: Celebrity Equinox Reviews. Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles. Mayan ruins, exciting eco adventures and the friendly spirit of Jamaica await in the Western Caribbean. Carnival Vista (along with sister ship Carnival Horizon) offers an innovative twist on the line's popular "Fun Ship" concept. Here are the results! For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPGs new cruise newsletter.

Foodies in need of a tropical getaway should look no further than Oceania Cruises' Riviera.

The District, for example, is a hub of multiple bars and lounges that enforces an "18 to enter, 21 to drink" policy after 9 p.m. Regal Princess is prime for those who seek a more refined atmosphere but don't want to sacrifice fun. But for many cruisers, where these vessels go doesnt really matter.

Start with these stories: Featured image courtesy of Royal Caribbean. Say goodbye to the daily grind with our new Sail Away Party poolside on the top deck, dance to local music at one of the many Caribbean inspired concerts, or be the envy of every pirate at our high-energy gold treasure-inspired Terrace Pool Gold Party. Some of the most interesting luxury itineraries in the Caribbean come from Seabourn. That means it can hold more than 14,000 guests, assuming two people per room. Ports of call include Cozumel, the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Progreso in the Western Caribbean; the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic in the Eastern Caribbean; and St. Kitts, Barbados, and Aruba in the Southern Caribbean. Entertainment at times is as lowbrow as the line is low cost. 1 ThankYou point per $1 on all other purchases. This culinary- and destination-focused cruise line offers expertly curated travel experiences. The two trips can be combined back to back to create a 14-day Caribbean adventure. The sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean are calling. The insides of the ships are filled with more lounges, bars, restaurants and shops than you can imagine, plus huge casinos, spas and showrooms with Broadway shows.

Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Luxury lines such as Seabourn have some ships with space ratios above 70.

The latter is the obvious choice if youre a Disney lover.

Hate to wait when boarding or disembarking in port? What you wont find on the Oasis Class ships, which include the new queen bee of the cruise world, the 18-deck-high, 1,188-foot-long Symphony of the Seas, is intimacy. The Western Caribbean's ancient wonders are calling. Extend your Caribbean cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise.

Those who want a taste of the high life without paying luxury cruise price tags. Whether you're keen on visiting a particular port (scuba diving in Grenada, anyone?) Explore destinations easily on a MedallionClass vacation.

The line that many longtime industry watchers (including me) consider the epitome of high-end cruising, Crystal Cruises, only has six sailings in the Caribbean planned for 2021. Onboard marina offers kayaks, paddleboards and other water toys. High-diving aerial performances at the AquaTheater. Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum. The best for me? Not only does Carnival offer lower fares than youll find at most rival lines, it also purposely deploys its Caribbean-focused vessels to a wider variety of U.S. home ports than other lines to make traveling to them less pricey. Thats a big number for a ship with just 1,330 cabins overall.

Learn more about Caribbean Getaways Cruises. Theres no better way to truly experience the laid-back Caribbean than with Princess. Cruise options for the Southern Caribbean take you from the lush paradise of Dominica to the remote isles of Aruba, Curaao and Bonaire. From the ancient ruins of the once-great Mayan Empire to the colorful Dutch colonial city of Willemstad, there is something to enthrall you. Later stays in ports such as Aruba, Curacao, St. Thomas and Cozumel let you soak up the full Caribbean experience, like a fresh-caught seafood dinner on the beach or street fair full of local crafts and flavors. Couples who want to relax by day and let loose at night.

Medjet provides premier air medical transport, travel security, and crisis response memberships, providing peace of mind for an affordable price. Read about colorful cultures, breathtaking landscapes, must-see attractions and preparation advice for cruising the Caribbean. Its imperative to feel comfortable and safe while traveling.

Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess take travel to the next level with Sky Suites that feature unrivaled service and the largest balcony at sea, the brand-new jazz theater Take Five and the technologically advanced Phantom Bridge Escape Room. Find out why Grenada is dubbed the Spice Isle, try some authentic Caribe dishes at the lively and colorful Castries open-air market in Saint Lucia, and learn how to make real rum punch in Barbados. This card offers a 80,000-point bonus after spending $4,000 in the first three months. The bottom line is: The best Caribbean cruise for you depends a lot on your travel style. The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. I particularly loved its futuristic, Jetsons-like design, and the multicolored mood lighting. Even if you know the kind of ship you want, theres also the issue of destination. Classic touches like a vintage navy-blue hull and afternoon tea comingle with high-tech features such as a 270-degree LED screen that projects optical illusions in the main theater. There's also the occasional pool game; just don't expect any belly flop contests. Related: The ultimate guide to Disney ships and itineraries. The 5,400-passenger behemoth (along with island-hopping sister ships Oasis, Harmony and Symphony of the Seas) feels more like a floating resort than a ship, thanks to its Coney Island-style boardwalk; array of restaurants, bars and activities; and double the fun with two rock climbing walls and surf simulators. The laid-back Eastern Caribbean is home to many of the regions most popular islands gems like St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Grand Turk.

The line also has offered rare-in-the-industry sailings out of Puerto Morelos, Mexico (near Cancun), that feature calls along the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. From mofongo, a dish from Puerto Rico made from mashed fried plantains, pork and garlic, to the famous jerk chicken of Jamaica, we serve the Caribbean's favorite flavors to you on board. Experience lesser-known Caribbean coastlines, ports, and destinations with Oceania Cruises. Some people demand (and are willing to pay for) the highest levels of luxury.

Families who can take advantage of MSC's kids-sail-free policy. 6294). With a capacity for only 227 passengers, Star Clippers' Royal Clipper has a cozy feel, where everyone feels like family; a relaxed dress code also makes you feel at home. These three lines dominate the world of megaresorts at sea with 21 of the planets 25 biggest and most-amenity-filled vessels (more than a dozen of which are deployed at least part of the year in the Caribbean). And thats just on their outer decks. The diverse cultural influences, local climates and history of the Caribbean combine to make one of the most exciting and unique regional cuisines in the world. Sun lovers will enjoy features like a chic pool surrounded by daybeds, a boardwalk that wraps around the ship, glass-bottom bridges and lots of deck space. RedFrog Pub & Brewery offers tours and tastings of Carnival's own beer. The beaches of the Caribbean are legendary for their natural beauty and tranquil turquoise waters. Its important to think that through before you start narrowing down your choices. But kids aren't the ship's only focus. AquaClass cabins offer perks like thermal suite access and a healthier room service menu. Let the soft sands and warm winds melt all your worries away.

The warm Caribbean night air, fresh popcorn and comfortable lounge chair with fleece blanket make for a viewing experience like no other. Get away to the Bahamas for just a few days or during a week-long Caribbean cruise and youre sure to relax and recharge. Caribbean voyages to off-the-beaten-path Caribbean islands such as St. Vincent, Bonaire, Guadeloupe, and Dominica depart on small designer-inspired ships from Miami. The Points Guy will not sell your email. Just be prepared to pay up big time for the privilege of sailing with Captain Mickey. Other top picks for families include the many Caribbean-focused vessels of cruise giant Carnival (which carries more children than any other line) and the Caribbean-bound ships of Disney. Which one of these ships and sailings is the best? Your stateroom is your home away from home on your voyage where you rest up and recharge between adventures. Snorkel in sparkling turquoise waters. Embrace the spirit of the islands the moment you step on your ship with our Rhythm of the Caribbean program. Others are horrified by the very idea of them. Find serenity fishing from the rocky coastline. The St. Martin-to-Barbados itinerary features visits to Tortola, St. Barts, St. Kitts, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia and the Grenadines. We offer staterooms ranging from interior cabins to full suites, and we even offer connected rooms for families with more than four members traveling together. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler. or are simply in need of some vitamin D, we make it easy to decide which option is best for you. Each of these solo cruiser zones, which are unrepeated in the industry for now, includes dozens of cabins for solo travelers, all clustered around each other. Silversea also has a handful of voyages out of Barbados, which is something of a hub for small upscale vessels sailing in the Caribbean. The Eastern Caribbean's world famous beaches await.

The best ship and sailing in the Caribbean for whom? Yacht Club offers more exclusive suites and secluded pool deck. White sand beaches and coral reefs await on Caribbean Getaway cruises. And, indeed, if Disney is your thing, nothing in cruising quite compares. Bridge has an open-door policy for marine navigation geeks. Walk the docks that once harbored the greatest fleet in the world at Nelson's Dockyard, taste and hear the deep West African influences in everyday Caribbean life, and experience the uniqueness of each island.

The ship visits more ports in a single week than the average mainstream cruise ship -- and offers a robust, unique selection of shore excursions -- so there are plenty of opportunities to explore the Caribbean's hidden gems. When sunshine, frozen pina coladas and steel drums call, you know it's time for a Caribbean cruise. There are others who never leave. That means you could be sharing your Caribbean vacation with nearly 9,000 people. Celebrity touts itself as a "modern luxury" cruise line, and Celebrity Equinox is a shining example. No other ships boast as many activities that will get a teen or tweens heart racing. From relaxing on the shores of Seven Mile Beach to feeding majestic sea creatures at Stingray City, discover the top things to do in Grand Cayman with Princess. The lines 458-passenger Seabourn Odyssey spends its winters sailing one-way voyages between Barbados and St. Martin with stops at several lesser-visited Caribbean ports. For a true taste of the Caribbean, tour rum distilleries and cocoa and coffee farms. Enjoy more time to connect with the places you sail. Wine-making venue lets you blend and bottle your own creations. Note that Disney die-hards will tell you there is no other line for families than Disney. Star Clippers sends two vessels to the Caribbean each winter that sail out of St. Martin and Barbados. As part of our 2022 Best of Travel Awards, we asked our readers what their favorite Caribbean cruise lines are. The Caribbean has a different feeling at night. Crystals 980-passenger Crystal Serenity is arriving in Miami in mid-November for the briefest of Caribbean seasons. Many of the worlds most luxurious cruise ships spend a lot of time in Europe and Asia, or gallivanting around the globe on exotic world cruises. Learn more about Western Caribbean Cruises. Family-friendly fun. Please view our advertising policy page for more information.

Many of the lines vessels have a space ratio a measure of the amount of interior space available per passenger in the low 30s. Discover the best time for a Caribbean cruise. Check out the music video to see why a Caribbean vacation with Princess Cruises is more than just a trip! More than 200 cruise ships spend at least part of every year in the region. Solo travelers also will find that some small-ship lines and luxury lines such as Silversea Cruises and Crystal Cruises cater heavily to solo travelers, with fare specials and dedicated onboard programming. Others are on the tightest of budgets. Our readers third-favorite Caribbean cruise line is known for its immersive destination experiences and award-winning shore excursions.

The question isnt. If you prefer your relaxation more active, we offer Zumba, yoga and tai chi classes to burn off stress and raise your heart rate. Youll find Carnival ships sailing to the Caribbean from all the major Florida cruise hubs, but also from ports as far-flung as New York City; Baltimore; Charleston, South Carolina; Mobile, Alabama; New Orleans; and Galveston, Texas. These are cruises where its really all about the ship. If your idea of a great vacation is a week at a big, bustling resort filled with every sort of amusement known to humans, youll probably want to start your Caribbean cruise search with a look at the biggest vessels from Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises. This is, after all, the brand that famously holds a Hairy Chest Contest around the pool deck on every voyage, to a standing-room-only, hooting and hollering crowd. Our onboard activities give you the chance to gain a deeper connection and understanding of the gorgeous islands you'll visit on your voyage.

Cue the calypso music, the Caribbean is calling! It accounts for nearly 1 out of every 5 cruises taken worldwide. If more is better is your mantra, many cruise aficionados (myself included) will tell you to narrow things even further by just typing these two words into your search engine: Oasis Class. Several nearly-as-big Norwegian vessels filled with family-friendly amusements, including Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Escape, also sail regularly to the Caribbean. Princess Cruises is a member of ABTA, (membership number V8764) which means you have the benefit of ABTAs assistance and Code of Conduct. They travel to lesser-visited destinations like the Iles des Saintes, a group of islands that are dependencies of Guadeloupe, and Tobago Cays, an archipelago in the Southern Grenadines. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. I sailed solo in one of the cabins on Norwegian Epic, and I was smitten. Theres no better way tocruise the Caribbean than on one of the bold, new additions to our fleet. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey.

Another thing cruisers appreciate about Princess is the More Ashore program, which lets passengers experience ports after dark with late-night departures and overnight stays in ports such as Aruba, Curacao, St. Thomas, and Cozumel. But theyre still packed with a lot of fun-focused attractions, including multiple pool areas, waterparks with waterslides and, on the newest Carnival ships, the lines signature, deck-top SportSquare areas with ropes courses, basketball courts, miniature golf courses and other outdoor amusements. Experience the authentic Caribbean with award-winning shore excursions. 2022, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. All Rights Reserved. For a true bucket list experience, climb the mast or bowsprit netting to feel like you're flying over the ocean. But it isnt for everyone. On a Royal Caribbean Caribbean cruise, you can see towering mountains like Petit Piton in St. Lucia, explore Belizes lush rainforests, and admire Jamaican waterfalls and the coral reefs of Bonaire. Known as Studio cabins, the solo rooms in these complexes measure around 100 square feet, which is super tiny. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit this page. Also loaded with family-friendly attractions including the longest go-kart track at sea (yes, this is now a thing) is Norwegians 1-year-old Norwegian Encore.

If your tastes are refined and you're content with peaceful sea days and far-from-wild nights, Koningsdam is a fitting choice. Those on a budget, who don't want to sacrifice fun. Ponants itineraries for 2021 are in flux due to the coronavirus pandemic. A RED VENTURES COMPANY. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. Long to dive into turquoise waters? It is not the bank advertisers responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered. Discover Bonaires salt flats and flamingoes, climb up waterfalls and down into caves, tee off on a lush green golf course, and shop for everything from Mexican silver to Cuban cigars.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. A private beach party. TravelAwaits 2022 Best Of Travel Awards, presented by. For others, it barely matters. Do it all in just a few days on a short Caribbean cruise. Holland Americas Caribbean cruises last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks with ports of call in the Cayman Islands, Key West, Cozumel, Aruba, and more. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. Forget cooking and cleaning! For more information please see www.abta.com. In a region so full of new experiences, unique culinary delights and deep history, why trust anyone but the experts? Social media stars the Holderness Family recently set sail on a Caribbean cruise. Norwegian boasts not one, but two private islands: Harvest Caye And Great Stirrup Cay.

Oceanfront promenade offers alfresco dining and bars. Relax on your very own beach playground, where 40 acres of white sands, bungalows, local crafts and a complimentary barbeque await. Take in unparalleled sights with an umbrella drink in your hand from a floating resort. Enjoy the lush wildernesses of southern Mexico, unspoiled coral reefs of Belize and Roatan, underground caves on the Island of Cozumel and so much more. One big caveat with Norwegians solo cabins: Theyre all inside rooms without an ocean view.

Zipline above the lush jungle, snorkel through a coral reef teeming with life, take an off-road vehicle deep into the rainforest or sail a catamaran out to explore a shipwreck. See the kids vlog of their experiences in Camp Discovery and adventures ashore, and watch the parents tackle cruise myths in their vacation recap.