Magically Cruising Cruise Podcast - podcast cover

Magically Cruising Cruise Podcast

Magically Cruisingshows.acast.com

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 and Donna are the award-nominated travel writers behind Cruising for Kids and Cruising for All, with a breath of knowledge about sailing various cruise lines with kids and as couples. They research cruise ships extensively to be able to give the right advice of itineraries, cabins, food and drinks packages.


Kieran is the Independent travel agent behind Magical Traveller, helping hundreds of people each day find the right cruise holiday/vacation and ships for themselves and their families.

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Episodes

Which Royal Caribbean Ships Are Being Amplified in 2026?

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 cov...

Jul 02, 202537 minEp. 72

Are Royal Caribbean's Older, and Smaller ships still good Value?

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: What to expect from Royal Caribbean’s Vision, Radiance and Voyager class ships Whether these smaller and older ships offer better value for money How the onboard experience compares to newer ships Unique iti...

Jun 18, 202557 minEp. 71

Are Cruises Still Safe?

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 sa...

Jun 02, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 70

Is Speciality Dining Worth the Money?

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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

May 14, 202554 minEp. 69

Allure of the Seas Post Dry Dock Review and Sailing the Med with Royal Caribbean

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. See more photos here 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 R...

Apr 28, 202552 minEp. 68

Visiting Key West by Cruise - Tips and Reviews To Make The Most Of Your Time In Port

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 And tour of Celebrity Apex Royal Caribbean Ships Sailing Europe in 2026 Disney Cruise Line Sailing from Southampton 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Apr 09, 202538 minEp. 67

Are Cruises Still Good Value for Money?

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? Hosted on Acast. See a...

Mar 19, 20251 hr 4 minEp. 66

Review of Celebrity Apex in the Caribbean

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 To...

Mar 07, 202559 minEp. 65

Does it pay to stay loyal to a Cruise Line?

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 Hosted on Acast...

Feb 24, 202555 minEp. 64

Big Ships or Small Ships: Which is better?

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? Oasis of the Seas Ship Tour Which Virgin Voyages Ship is the be...

Feb 07, 202555 minEp. 63

Tips and Advice for cruising from Barcelona

Sarah and Kieran talk about Barcelona Cruise Port and why it's a great cruise port to sail out of, what to do in and around Barcelona before your cruise and how to navigate embarking on a cruise from Barcelona. Offering tips and hints on what to do during your stay. See our tips on what to do in Barcelona Cruise Port Read Kieran's Review of sailing from Barcelona with Virgin Voyages And our guided tour of Casa Batllo Details of the Royal Caribbean 2026 Europe sailing s Hosted on Acast. See acast...

Jan 24, 202555 minEp. 62

What are you looking forward to in 2025

Welcome to our yearly chat, talking about what we are most excited about in our cruise diaries and cruise calendars for 2025. Looking at why we have chosen the cruises we have booked for 2025 and what we are excited about industry-wise. And what we loved about 2024. See our Guide To Oasis of the Seas. View all the Virgin Voyages Europe 2025 Sailings Check Out A Smaller Royal Caribbean Ship, Mariner of the Seas View all the Royal Caribbean Europe 2025 Sailings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priva...

Jan 05, 202546 minEp. 61

What its like to sail a Transatlantic on Oasis of the Seas?

Sarah and Donna tell Kieran what life is like on a Transatlantic Cruise. In this episode filmed from the Oasis of the Seas, we talk about life onboard an Oasis Class ship as she sails from Spain to Fort Lauderdale. We chat, of course, about the weather, the ship and what to do onboard when you have six days at sea. Take a Photo Tour of Oasis of the Seas View Royal Caribbean 2025 Europe sailings. Take A Look At A Grand Suite on Oasis of the Seas Sail Royal Caribbean from Southampton Hosted on Aca...

Dec 12, 202453 minEp. 60

Visiting Rome onboard Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady, what could go wrong?

Kieran talks about his recent port day in Rome on Scarlet Lady and why doing a cruise excursion is sometimes better on trips farther from the cruise port. Virgin Voyages Video and Photo Tour How to Get to the Cruise Port From Rome by Train Virgin Voyages Ultimate Guide Get More Cruise Tips and Advice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Nov 27, 202450 minEp. 59

How do you choose your Cruise?

What to consider when booking your next cruise: Sarah and Kieran discuss how they choose and plan their next cruises, looking at ports, ships, itineraries, prices, and cruise cabins. They also provide some tips on what to look for and how to plan. Magical Traveller Cruise Search Tool Check out our Digital and Printable Cruise Planning Tips. First timers guide to sailing with Disney Cruise Line See Our Cruise Guides For Families Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Nov 11, 202455 minEp. 58

Things You Need To Know About Booking Royal Caribbean Pre Bookable Extras

Sarah and Kieran discuss what costs extra on a Royal Caribbean Cruise; we look at what you can book and pay extra and what's included on Royal Caribbean. See where you can sail with Royal Caribbean in Europe in 2025 with Magical Traveller. What's included on a Royal Caribbean Cruise . Use the Magical Traveller Cruise Search Tool . Get the lowdown on the Royal Caribbean dining package. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Oct 23, 202454 minEp. 57

First Look at Epic Universe coming to Orlando 2025

Sarah and Kieran talk about Universal's Epic Universe, which is set to open in 2025 as Universal Orlando's fourth theme park, featuring a collection of immersive themed worlds and cutting-edge attractions. One of the main highlights is Celestial Park, a lush garden-like hub that serves as the park's central area. It includes the high-speed Stardust Racers coaster and a dazzling Constellation Carousel. Celestial Park will also connect to four distinct lands. Check out what we are most excited abo...

Oct 02, 202450 minEp. 56

Can you visit Universal Orlando before your cruise?

Planning a cruise from Florida and fancy squeezing in a bit of extra fun before you set sail? Visiting Universal Orlando before your cruise is a brilliant way to kick-start your holiday with some thrilling rides and magical moments. Whether you’re eager to explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, tackle epic roller coasters, or simply soak up the excitement of a world-class theme park, adding Universal Orlando to your itinerary is both possible and popular. But how can you make the most of y...

Sep 09, 202441 minEp. 55

Are Cruise Drinks Packages Still Good Value

In today's episode Sarah and Kieren look at the price rise of cruise drink packages and the knock-on effect this is having on the cruise experience. Do we really need cruise drinks packages any more now the prices have increased so dramatically? See our Royal Caribbean Drinks Package Guide Thinking of booking Virgin Voyages? Check out this guide to Sailor Loot and the Bar Tab And check out the Celebrity Cruises Drinks Packages Get all the details of the Disney Fantasy sailing from Southampton in...

Aug 22, 202446 minEp. 54

Tips for sailing from Athens (Piraeus)

Thinking of Sailing From Athens? Kieran tells Sarah about the laid-back vibe and gives hints and tips for booking hotels and finding great bars and restaurants. Find your next cruise with the Magical Traveller Cruise Search Tool Get Cruise Tips and Tricks 6 Hotels in Athens with Rooftop Pools Get our free printable cruise door ducks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Aug 01, 202430 minEp. 53

The Real Deal on Mini Cruises: Pros and Cons Revealed!

Welcome to this week's episode of Magically Cruising, the cruise podcast that helps you make the most of your next sailing! Hosted by Kieran, an independent travel agent, and Sarah a travel writter from Cruising for All and Cruising with Kids. In this episode, we dive into the world of mini cruises. Sarah shares her recent experience on a two-night sailing with MSC Virtuosa out of Southampton. We explore the pros and cons of mini cruises, discussing why they may not always offer the best represe...

Jul 17, 202443 minEp. 52

Is there such thing as a last minute deal?

Sarah and Kieran examine booking patterns and the best time to book a cruise. We chat about the best time to book a cruise for families and couples and ask if you can get a good last-minute cruise deal. Check out the biggest cruise ships in the world. And take a look at Mariner of the Seas in our review and tour. See all Short Cruises from the UK on Magical Traveller What are the top cruise line private islands ? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Jun 26, 202436 minEp. 51

Scarlet Lady Irresistible Med Live Report

Kieran talks to Sarah live from Scarlet Lady about his Irresistible Med cruise, what he loves about sailing with Virgin Voyages, and what shines about the brand for him. Check out the food onboard Virgin Voyages What are the biggest cruise ships in the world Take a look at Kieran's Guide to Virgin Voyages Cabins and Suites Want to understand How the Bar Tab and Sailor Loot work on Virgin Voyages Kieran also has a guide for that Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Jun 13, 202440 minEp. 50

Mariner of the Seas Live Report

In this episode, Sarah records live from Mariner of the Seas. Telling Kieran all about life cruising on one of the older ships in the Royal Caribbean Fleet. Mariner was Amplified in 2018, see what we thought. Check out the balcony cabin photo tour See some of the family-friendly facilities onboard. Book Royal Caribbean with Magical Traveller Book with Magical Traveller - Independent Travel Agent Bristol Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

May 29, 202427 minEp. 49

Naples Port Guide, What To Do On A Day in Port

Sarah and Kieran talk about what to do on a port day in Naples. We share our top tips on how to navigate this bustling vibrant port. What to do in Naples Cruise Port Also grab our free Cruise Planner Book a Cruise with Kieran:- Cruise Search Tool Independent Travel Agent in Bristol Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

May 16, 202442 minEp. 48

Tips for Visiting Disneyland Paris

Can you do Disneyland Paris in a day? Sarah and Kieran share all their top tips for doing Disneyland Paris on a budget in a day. We also look at our favourite rides and tips. How to do Disneyland Paris in a Day. Get our free printable Disney Paris Planner Book a Disneyland Paris Trip with Kieran Disney Parks News on Magical Traveller Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

May 01, 202452 minEp. 47

Mykonos Port Guide

Sarah and Kieran discussed what they loved about Mykonos Cruise ports and how easy it is to get from the new port to the old port. We look and how easy it is to explore the Island and what you shouldn't miss on your time in port. What To Do In Mykonos Cruise Port More Cruise Tips and Tricks Virgin Voyages Greek Island Glow Book with Magical Traveller Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Apr 17, 202439 minEp. 46

Are these really the worst rated cruise ships?

We look at the worst-rated ships from one of the many polls and discuss the findings, looking at why people should take these reports with a pinch of salt and how to find the best cruise for you. For more cruise tips and advice, see Cruising With Kids Book a Cruise with Magical Traveller Also, see our free printable and Digital Cruise Planner View short cruises from the UK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Apr 03, 202449 minEp. 45

Did I really just read that?

In this light-hearted cruise podcast episode, Sarah and Kieran look at some of the cruise questions asked and try to unpick whether they are genuine or posted for a reaction. Whilst no question should be deemed stupid, we look at some that most certainly sit on the border. Get Family Friendly Cruise Tips Here Look at Cruising with a Baby and Our Top Tips. Book a Cruise with Magical Traveller Magical Traveller Virgin Voyages Facebook Groups Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informat...

Mar 20, 202441 minEp. 44

Review of Sailing Celebrity Infinity in Europe During Winter

What is winter cruising in the med like? Donna tells Sarah and Kieran all about her recent Mediterranean cruise on Celebrity Infinity and what she loves about older, smaller cruise ships. She also shares her thoughts on her first Celebrity Cruise. See Donna's review and photo tour of Celebrity Infinity. Book a Celebrity Cruise with Magical Traveller Book a Celebrity Infinity Europe Winter Cruise with Magical Traveller Find out if you need a Celebrity Drinks Package on your next cruise. Hosted on...

Mar 10, 202448 minEp. 43
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