Magically Cruising is a team of passionate cruise experts, discussing our personal cruise experiences, sharing cruise tips and travel and booking advice to help you choose and book the right cruise.
Sarah is an award-nominated travel writer behind Mini Travellers, with a breadth of knowledge about sailing with various cruise lines, both with kids and as a couple. They research cruise ships extensively to be able to give the right advice of itineraries, cabins, food and drinks packages.
Kieran is the award-winning independent travel agent behind Magical Traveller, helping people each day find the right cruise holiday/vacation and ships for themselves and their families.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Magically Cruising is a team of passionate cruise experts, discussing our personal cruise experiences, sharing cruise tips and travel and booking advice to help you choose and book the right cruise.
Sarah is an award-nominated travel writer behind Mini Travellers, with a breadth of knowledge about sailing with various cruise lines, both with kids and as a couple. They research cruise ships extensively to be able to give the right advice of itineraries, cabins, food and drinks packages.
Kieran is the award-winning independent travel agent behind Magical Traveller, helping people each day find the right cruise holiday/vacation and ships for themselves and their families.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🌟 Welcome back to Magically Cruising – The Cruise Podcast! 🌟
In this week’s episode, Kieran and Sarah dive into a topic that matters to so many cruisers: accessibility, inclusivity, and how cruise lines support guests with medical needs, dietary requirements, allergies, and more.
Kieran, a travel agent specialising in cruises and Disney travel, and Sarah, a cruise writer at Mini Travellers and Cruising With Kids, share real experiences, expert insights, and honest opinions on how different cruise lines cater to a wide range of needs on board.
🎙️ In This Episode We Cover:
• Why cruising can be one of the most inclusive ways to travel
• How cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Disney and Virgin Voyages approach accessibility
• Dietary needs at sea: gluten-free, allergies, food safety & restaurant experiences
• First-hand stories about travelling with Type 1 Diabetes
• How to prepare BEFORE you sail, including medical equipment, sharps bins, special diets & sensory needs
• Which cruise lines excel… and where improvements are still needed
• The realities of buffets, speciality dining, and consistency between ships
• How to advocate for yourself or your family on board
• Why early communication with the cruise line makes all the difference
• The truth about accessible cabins and why they show up in general inventory
• Plus: celiac cruises, sourcing special foods, and what cruise lines will actually do if they can’t meet essential dietary or medical requirements
Whether you’re travelling with allergies, mobility needs, sensory needs, chronic conditions, or you’re just curious about how inclusive cruising REALLY is, this episode has something for you.
Get Cruise Reviews Here https://minitravellers.co.uk/category/cruise/
Book A Cruise https://magical-traveller.com/
Cruise Tips https://cruisingkids.co.uk/
Read about Kieran's time sailing in China with Royal Caribbean:- https://magical-traveller.com/day-two-how-chinese-is-spectrum-of-the-seas
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In this week’s episode of Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast, Kieran and Sarah dive into the freshly announced Royal Caribbean 2027 deployment, and trust us, there is a lot to get excited about!
Together, we break down the headline news everyone’s talking about: Legend of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon Class ship, is not only returning to Europe but sailing for the entire 2027 season.
We chat about why this is such a big deal, how it compares to previous new-ship seasons, and what makes Icon Class feel revolutionary rather than just evolutionary.
But that’s not all — we also dig into the more controversial talking point of the week: the return of Mariner of the Seas to the UK. Is she an “old ship”, or a well-loved Royal Caribbean classic with incredible features, a fab renovation, and one of the best atmospheres at sea? (Spoiler: we think the negativity is totally undeserved!)
We explore:
✨ Why Mariner is perfect for UK families
✨ How ship renovations make a world of difference
✨ The realities of sailing from UK ports and why Oasis-class ships will never be based here
✨ What itineraries you can expect in 2027 — from Norwegian Fjords to Spain & France
Plus, Sarah reveals she’s already booked not one but two Royal Caribbean cruises for 2027… and Kieran may or may not be sneaking in a surprise sailing of his own.
If you're a Royal Caribbean fan (or just cruise-curious!), this episode is packed with insight, excitement and honest opinions from two seasoned cruisers who know the European market inside out.
🎙 Hosts:
Kieran Miller, Independent Travel Agent, Disney & North America Cruise Specialist
Sarah Christie, Cruise writer at Mini Travellers, Cruising With Kids at MSN, co-host of Magically Cruising
See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise tips https://minitravellers.co.uk/?s=cruise
Book a Cruise with a UK Agent https://magical-traveller.com
For Cruise Tips. Cruising With Kids. https://cruisingkids.co.uk/
See our tour on Mariner of the Seas https://minitravellers.co.uk/photo-tour-and-review-of-mariner-of-the-seas/
Mariner of the Seas for Kids https://cruisingkids.co.uk/7-things-kids-will-love-about-mariner-of-the-seas/
And Odyssey of the Seas https://minitravellers.co.uk/photo-tour-and-review-of-odyssey-of-the-seas/
See Magical Traveller on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@UCBOqXqrrrYnUGk6H2AVk9Zg
And Mini Travellers on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MiniTravellers
View all the Royal Caribbean 2027 sailing dates and itineraries here https://magical-traveller.com/royal-caribbean-europe-2027
👉 Subscribe to Magically Cruising for weekly cruise tips, reviews, and destination advice.
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Join Kieran and Sarah on this week’s episode of Magically Cruising as we dive into an unforgettable adventure in China!
Kieran recently returned from an incredible hosted trip, sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas from Shanghai to Japan. In this episode, we share:
Insider tips for cruising in China
Experiences exploring Shanghai, including local culture, shopping, and more
What it’s like sailing on Spectrum of the Seas, including unique features, specialty dining, and must-see onboard highlights
Tips for navigating Chinese apps, transport, and visas
How Royal Caribbean makes international cruising seamless and stress-free
Whether you’re curious about cruising in China, love Royal Caribbean adventures, or just want travel inspiration, this episode is packed with insights and personal experiences you won’t want to miss!
And Find Out More About Spectrum of the Seas
🎙 Hosts:
Kieran Miller, Independent Travel Agent, Disney & North America Cruise Specialist
Sarah Christie, Cruise writer at Mini Travellers, Cruising With Kids at MSN, co-host of Magically Cruising
See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise tips
For Cruise Tips. Cruising With Kids.
See Magical Traveller on YouTube.
And Mini Travellers on YouTube
👉 Subscribe to Magically Cruising for weekly cruise tips, reviews, and destination advice
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This week, Kieran and Sarah dive into the magic of Disney Cruise Line, fresh off Kieran’s recent sailing on the Disney Fantasy around the Norwegian Fjords. From hidden Imagineering details to split bathrooms, incredible service, and the pure nostalgia that Disney brings at sea, this is an honest, detailed look at what makes Disney cruises so special.
🚢 In This Episode:
Why Disney Cruise Line has climbed back to the top of Kieran’s list 🏆
The difference between Disney and Virgin Voyages ✨
Behind-the-scenes insights
The immaculate design, storytelling, and maintenance onboard Disney Fantasy
Cabins, split bathrooms, service levels, and those magical little details
What it’s really like sailing Disney in Norway 🇳🇴
Whether you’re a Disney fan planning your first cruise or a seasoned cruiser curious about what sets Disney apart, this episode is packed with insider tips, honest opinions, and plenty of cruise geekery.
🎙 Hosts:
Kieran, Independent Travel Agent, Disney & North America Cruise Specialist
Sarah, Cruise writer at Mini Travellers & MSN, co-host of Magically Cruising
See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise reviews https://minitravellers.co.uk/?s=cruise
Book a Cruise with a UK Agent https://magical-traveller.com
For Cruise Tips. Cruising With Kids. https://cruisingkids.co.uk/
See Magical Traveller on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@UCBOqXqrrrYnUGk6H2AVk9Zg
And Mini Travellers on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MiniTravellers
👉 Subscribe to Magically Cruising for weekly cruise tips, reviews, and destination advice.
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Thinking of booking a cruise? Before you set sail, it’s important to know what’s really included in your fare—and what will cost extra once you’re onboard. In this episode of Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast, Kieran and Sarah dive into the hidden costs of cruising that can surprise even experienced cruisers.
We chat about:
Whether you’re new to cruising or a seasoned cruiser, this episode will help you plan, budget, and make the most of your next holiday at sea.
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Virgin Voyages has just revealed its fourth ship – Brilliant Lady – with some smart improvements, design tweaks, and bold new itineraries, including Alaska and the Panama Canal. But is she truly different from her sister ships, or just more of the same?
In this week’s episode of Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast, Kieran (independent travel agent & cruise expert) and Sarah (family travel & cruise blogger at Mini Travellers) dive into what sets Brilliant Lady apart.
Kieran shares his exclusive first impressions onboard, from upgraded cabin layouts and refreshed dining to entertainment changes and Virgin’s softer branding shift. We also explore her exciting new sailings across North America, Alaska, and beyond – plus whether these changes make Virgin Voyages more appealing to first-time cruisers.
👉 If you’re wondering whether Brilliant Lady is worth booking, this episode gives you the insider details you need before deciding.
See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise tips https://minitravellers.co.uk/?s=cruise
Book a Cruise with a UK Agent https://magical-traveller.com
See Magical Traveller on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@MagicalTRVLR
And Mini Travellers on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MiniTravellers
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Cruise Ship Private Islands: Are They Worth It? | Castaway Cay, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bimini Beach Club & More! 🛳️
Today, we’re diving into one of the biggest debates in the cruise world: cruise ship private islands. Are they the ultimate Caribbean escape… or just an extension of the cruise bubble?
We chat about our experiences on some of the best cruise line private islands in the Caribbean right now:
⚓ Disney’s Castaway Cay – the original family-friendly private island that still delivers the magic.
⚓ Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay – with its record-breaking waterslides, Thrill Waterpark, Chill Island, and luxury cabanas.
⚓ Virgin Voyages’ Beach Club at Bimini – a stylish, adults-only beach club vibe with DJs, pools, and that iconic float-out party.
We also touch on:
➡️ The pros & cons of private islands (are you missing out on local culture?)
➡️ What’s actually included in your day ashore (food, drinks, activities).
➡️ How cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Carnival, Virgin Voyages, and MSC are racing to build bigger, better private destinations.
➡️ Whether these “perfect” destinations are worth the hype, or the extra $$$.
If you’re planning a Caribbean cruise 2025/2026 or just curious about what makes these private islands so popular, this episode is packed with insider tips, honest opinions, and a little cruise gossip along the way!
🚢 Mentioned in this video/podcast:
Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line)
Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean)
Beach Club at Bimini (Virgin Voyages)
Celebration Key (Carnival)
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (MSC Cruises)
👉 Have you been to a private island? Do you love them… or avoid those itineraries? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe & join us every week on Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast for cruise tips, reviews & stories.
See us over on Mini Travellers for more cruise tips
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Think family cruise lines are just for kids? Think again! In this video, we're sharing exactly what it’s like to sail on a family cruise line as an adult – the surprises, the hidden perks, and why you might love it even if you don’t have children with you.
F
rom private adults-only retreats and gourmet dining to incredible entertainment and world-class spa experiences, I’ll take you through the parts of a family cruise that many adults overlook. You’ll also hear the pros, cons, and little secrets that could make or break your trip.
Whether you’re planning your first cruise or considering a switch from an adults-only ship, this honest review will help you decide if a family cruise line is right for you.
💡 In this video:
⚓ Our honest thoughts on family cruises without kids
🍹 Hidden adult-only areas and activities you’ll love
🎭 Entertainment that goes way beyond kids’ shows
🛏️ Cabins, dining, and service from an adult perspective
🚢 How family cruise lines compare to adult-only cruises
🎙️ About Magically Cruising Podcast
We’re cruise lovers sharing insider tips, reviews, and travel stories to help you plan your next adventure at sea.
📌 More Cruise Tips & Reviews:
➡️ Oasis of the Seas Ship Review https://minitravellers.co.uk/review-of-oasis-of-the-seas-with-photo-tour/
➡️ Guide to Disney Cruise Line for Adults https://magical-traveller.com/is-disney-cruise-line-for-adults
🚢 Book a UK Cruise https://magical-traveller.com/
🚢 For More Cruise Content, See Sarah and Donna's TikTok For All Things Cruise
https://www.tiktok.com/@cruisingwithkids?_t=ZN-8yVtBcQvaTe&_r=1
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LISTENER NOTE: Kieran was onboard Majestic Princess, so apologies for the lower quality sound than usual.
Welcome aboard, another episode of Magically Cruising: The Cruise Podcast, your go-to show for cruise reviews, expert tips, and all things ocean travel!
This week, join Kieran (independent travel agent & cruise specialist) and Sarah (cruise blogger at Mini Travellers) as they deep-dive into life onboard Majestic Princess by Princess Cruises. Recorded mid-sailing in the Bay of Biscay, we talk:
🚢 What it’s really like sailing with Princess Cruises in 2025
🍽️ Is the Premier Beverage Package worth the upgrade?
🐒 Exploring Gibraltar (with monkeys, dolphins... and bird poop mishaps!)
🧭 Traditional vs. contemporary cruise experiences
🛳️ Why Princess may (or may not) be the right cruise line for you
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or booking your very first sailing, this episode gives you an honest, fun, and informative look at what to expect on a Princess itinerary, especially if you're weighing it against Virgin Voyages, Celebrity, or Royal Caribbean.
Plus: Kieran tests OceanNow live during the episode – will his coffee and water arrive before we’re done talking?
See More
Sarah and Donna TikTok For All Things Cruise
Kieran's first impressions of sailing Majestic Princess in Europe
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In this episode of Magically Cruising, we’re diving into one of the biggest decisions cruisers face: Should you book a shore excursion through the cruise line, or go it alone? Whether you're planning a Mediterranean cruise, Caribbean getaway, or Norwegian fjords adventure, we break down the pros and cons of cruise ship excursions versus independent tours.
We share insider tips, real cruise stories, and expert advice to help you make the most of your port days without wasting time or money. From port safety to excursion reliability, insurance cover, and the all-important “what happens if you're late back to the ship?” This episode covers everything UK cruisers need to know.
Perfect for:
🚢 Cruise holidaymakers planning their next adventure
🌍 Travel lovers curious about cruising
🇬🇧 UK families and couples looking for value and peace of mind
Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and check out our show notes for handy links and resources to help you plan smarter cruise port days.
See More
How to visit Oia, when on a cruise and take the stress out of visiting Santorini
What To Do In Key West Cruise Port
Walking guide to visiting Rome from Civitavecchia
How To Get From Rome From The Cruise Port by Train
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In this episode of the Magically Cruising Podcast, your hosts Sarah and Kieran dive into the exciting updates coming to three of Royal Caribbean’s popular ships: Harmony of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas.
We break down what “amplification” really means, the new features being added to these ships, and why we think these changes are a game-changer for families and cruise fans alike. From upgraded dining and entertainment to all-new attractions and tech enhancements, we cover everything you need to know about these soon to be revamped Royal Caribbean ships.
Whether you're planning your next cruise or just love staying up to date with the latest cruise news, this episode is packed with insights, excitement, and expert opinions.
See Allure of the Seas after her Amplification
Take A Look At The Drinks Packages on Royal Caribbean
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Are Royal Caribbean’s older and smaller ships still worth booking in 2025 and beyond? In this episode of Magically Cruising, Sarah and Kieran explore whether the cruise line’s classic ships still hold up against the latest mega-ships like Icon and Wonder of the Seas.
Join us as we dive into:
Whether you're a loyal Royal Caribbean fan or booking your first cruise, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest opinions to help you decide.
Also See
View the Royal Caribbean Europe 2025 Sailings here
View the Royal Caribbean Europe 2026 Sailings here
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In this episode: "Are Cruises Still Safe?" – Sarah and Kieran dive into the rising concerns about violence and onboard security. From high-profile incidents to questions around safety measures, passenger behaviour, and how cruise lines are responding.
How secure are cruise ships in today’s world? What protections are in place for guests and crew? And what do you really need to know before stepping aboard?
Stay with us as we chart a course through the facts, the fears, and the future of cruise safety.
Disney Cruise Line 2026 Sailings from Southampton
Why We Don't Love Short Cruises
Is Disney Cruise Line All Inclusive?
Take A Look At Allure of the Seas 100 Million Dollar Renovation
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Sarah and Kieran discuss speciality dining on cruise ships and talk about why its worth the extra. But also what free dining is included in your cruise. Looking at personal favourites and why they choose to opt for speciality dining over and above free dining.
Guide to Dining on Virgin Voyages
Speciality Dining Guide on Royal Caribbean
Guide to Dining on Disney Cruise Line
Place to Eat Free on Oasis of the Seas
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Sarah talks to Kieran and shares her first impressions of Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas after her 100 Million Dollar upgrade. Sharing thoughts on the Mason Jar, Pesky Parrot, the new upgrade Boardwalk with the Ultimate Abyss and Playmakers. Plus the newly upgraded pool area and why this ship is so great for all ages.
View the 2025 Royal Caribbean European Sailings here
Check out the menus for the new Pesky Parrot drinks menus and a peek as this cool new bar.
See where Royal Caribbean are sailing in Europe in 2026 here
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Sarah and Kieran discuss Key West cruise port, what they loved about the vibrant port and top tips on how to spend a day in Key West Cruise Port.
See Our Guide To Key West Cruise Port
Royal Caribbean Ships Sailing Europe in 2026
Disney Cruise Line Sailing from Southampton 2026
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Join Sarah and Kieran as they dive into all things cruising – from what’s included in your cruise fare to why cruising offers great value for families. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveller, we’ve got plenty of tips and insights to help you make the most of your holiday at sea. Let’s get started!
Also, See
What's Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise
What is included in a Disney Cruise
Whats Included in a P&O Cruise
Is Virgin Voyages All Inclusive?
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Join Kieran as he chats with Sarah about her experience cruising the Caribbean aboard Celebrity Apex. From the ship’s standout features to life at sea, they discuss everything from dining and entertainment to the onboard atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or just curious about Celebrity Cruises, this episode is packed with insights and first-hand stories. We also chat about sailing gluten-free on Celebrity Apex, and share experiences from other lines.
See the Infinity Balcony Cabin Tour Here
Book Celebrity Cruises with Kieran
Check Out The Martini Bar Prices on Celebrity Apex
Winter European Cruises sailing with Celebrity Cruises
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Sarah and Kieran discuss cruise line loyalty schemes and whether they motivate them to stay loyal. What motivates them and tempts them to cruise with a certain brand? As always, with a few off-topic random moments chatting, all things cruise.
See More.....
Get Our Free Cruise Planning Printable
Guide the Virgin Voyages Sailing Club
Check Out Cruising With Kids For Lots of Tips and Hints for Cruising With And Without Kids.
Check out the Disney Cruise Line 2026 Southampton Sailings
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This week, Sarah and Kieran are asking the big question: Which is better – the mega cruise ships packed with activities or the smaller, more intimate ships that offer a relaxed and personal experience?
We’ll be weighing up everything from entertainment and dining to atmosphere and destinations. So whether you love the buzz of a floating city or prefer a more exclusive getaway, we’ve got you covered.
Is Disney Cruise Line for Adults?
Which Virgin Voyages Ship is the best?
Ship Tour of Mariner of the Seas
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