http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/ en-GB (c) 2009-10 Red Walnut Records LLC for and by cruisers On Deck! Podcast no cruise, travel, guides, advice, ships, criuse, cruz Cruise travel topics and news for beginner and veteran cruisers. Cruise travel topics and news for beginner and veteran cruisers. On Deck! Podcast Info info@ondeckpodcast.com On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series The first of our series on cruise lines, we'll look at Celebrity.  The history of the line, current ships and itineraries, and position in the industry.  In future episodes, we'll hit all the major lines to see what sets each one apart from the other. Download Episode #32 The first of our series on cruise lines, we'll look at Celebrity.  The history of the line, current ships and itineraries, and position in the industry.  In future episodes, we'll hit all the major lines to see what sets each one apart from the other. Download Episode #32 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode32_64.mp3 Sat, 04 Sep 2010 16:52:18 -0600 38:32 travel, cruise, cruising, travel, guides, celebrity On Deck! Podcast On Deck! In this episode, we talk about choosing and booking shore excursions for your cruise.  There are advantages to booking with the cruise line but there are certainly cost savings if you choose not to book with the cruise line.  We'll look at the typical options available and other helpful tips for making the best of your days in port. Download Episode #31 In this episode, we talk about choosing and booking shore excursions for your cruise.  There are advantages to booking with the cruise line but there are certainly cost savings if you choose not to book with the cruise line.  We'll look at the typical options available and other helpful tips for making the best of your days in port. Download Episode #31 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode31_64.mp3 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 20:30:53 -0600 39:10 travel, cruise, cruising, travel, guides, shore excursions On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Proper packing for your trip can make or break the start to the great vacation you've been planning for months.  In this episode, we'll offer up some of our own advice about packing as well as some other useful tips we've researched from travelers like yourself.  How much to pack?  What to bring and what NOT to bring?  Including some things you probably would have never thought of. Download Episode #30 Proper packing for your trip can make or break the start to the great vacation you've been planning for months.  In this episode, we'll offer up some of our own advice about packing as well as some other useful tips we've researched from travelers like yourself.  How much to pack?  What to bring and what NOT to bring?  Including some things you probably would have never thought of. Download Episode #30 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode30_64.mp3 Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:48:03 -0600 37:20 travel, cruise, packing, advice, guide On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series As part of our recurring "Destinations" episodes, this time we cover the Atlantic islands of Bermuda.  This destination is served by nearly all the major cruise lines out of several Eastern US port cities.  From the pink beaches, snorkeling, golf, and historic cites, Bermuda is a destination with a lot to offer. Download Episode #29 As part of our recurring "Destinations" episodes, this time we cover the Atlantic islands of Bermuda.  This destination is served by nearly all the major cruise lines out of several Eastern US port cities.  From the pink beaches, snorkeling, golf, and historic cites, Bermuda is a destination with a lot to offer. Download Episode #29 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode29_64.mp3 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 04:39:07 -0600 32:23 travel, cruise, cruising, guides, bermuda On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series In our wrap-up Part II of Cruising for Beginners 2010, we cover boarding day, getting to know your ship, important things to know about port days, and tips for the end of your trip.  Even if it's been a while since your last cruise, be sure to check out this special annual edition. Download Episode #28 In our wrap-up Part II of Cruising for Beginners 2010, we cover boarding day, getting to know your ship, important things to know about port days, and tips for the end of your trip.  Even if it's been a while since your last cruise, be sure to check out this special annual edition. Download Episode #28 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode28_64.mp3 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 04:31:39 -0600 40:38 travel, cruise, cruising, travel, guides, beginning On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series This episode brings you a complete guide to preparing for your cruise.  Even if you aren't a beginner and it's been a while since your last cruise, this is definitely an episode you want to check out.  We have all the updates and recent changes in cruise travel plus several tips.  And don't miss part two coming soon. Download Episode #27 This episode brings you a complete guide to preparing for your cruise.  Even if you aren't a beginner and it's been a while since your last cruise, this is definitely an episode you want to check out.  We have all the updates and recent changes in cruise travel plus several tips.  And don't miss part two coming soon. Download Episode #27 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode27_64.mp3 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 05:25:43 -0600 32:37 travel, cruise, cruising, travel, guides, beginning On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series In this episode of On Deck! we talk about some of the industry trends we've observed.  Larger ships, more Caribbean, and creative entertainment options at sea.  Have some thoughts about trends?  Be sure to leave your comments and feedback with us on Facebook, twitter, or voice mail. Download Episode #26 In this episode of On Deck! we talk about some of the industry trends we've observed.  Larger ships, more Caribbean, and creative entertainment options at sea.  Have some thoughts about trends?  Be sure to leave your comments and feedback with us on Facebook, twitter, or voice mail. Download Episode #26 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode26_64.mp3 Sun, 04 Jul 2010 15:45:42 -0600 33:28 On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series The Queen Mary is one of the last great ocean liners that was used for regular transatlantic crossings between England and America before air travel and the birth of the modern cruise industry.  At the end of our Mexican Riviera cruise we had a chance to visit her in Long Beach.  What a great opportunity to see a bit of cruising history!  In this episode we talk about her history and her retirement, a historical attraction in Southern California. Download Episode #25 The Queen Mary is one of the last great ocean liners that was used for regular transatlantic crossings between England and America before air travel and the birth of the modern cruise industry.  At the end of our Mexican Riviera cruise we had a chance to visit her in Long Beach.  What a great opportunity to see a bit of cruising history!  In this episode we talk about her history and her retirement, a historical attraction in Southern California. Download Episode #25 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode25_64.mp3 Sat, 19 Jun 2010 23:28:49 -0600 27:52 travel, cruising, queen mary, ocean liner, history On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series It's been one year since On Deck! Podcast started.  In honor of our anniversary, we recap our episodes from the last year taking a second look at some of the topics we've covered. Download Episode #24 It's been one year since On Deck! Podcast started.  In honor of our anniversary, we recap our episodes from the last year taking a second look at some of the topics we've covered. Download Episode #24 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode24_64.mp3 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 17:52:29 -0600 28:56 travel, cruise, vacation, ships, information On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Scott asks Allie about her 3-night weekend vacations on the Carnival Paradise earlier this spring.  She explains why it's an attractive option and her thoughts and impressions about the line and itinerary.  In the news, Hurricane Season ramps up and the Mercury goes to the German line TUI. Download Episode #23 Scott asks Allie about her 3-night weekend vacations on the Carnival Paradise earlier this spring.  She explains why it's an attractive option and her thoughts and impressions about the line and itinerary.  In the news, Hurricane Season ramps up and the Mercury goes to the German line TUI. Download Episode #23 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode23_64.mp3 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 05:14:47 -0600 27:04 travel, cruise, mexico, carnival paradise On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series For the first time since their Alaska cruise in 2009, Scott and Allie cruise the Mexican Riviera together aboard Royal Caribbean. New to the line and itinerary, Scott offers up his impressions and we both share our opinions about the excursions we took together in port.  So much in this episode, but if you long for additional information about the Mariner of the Seas, be sure to check out Episode #15. Download Episode #22 For the first time since their Alaska cruise in 2009, Scott and Allie cruise the Mexican Riviera together aboard Royal Caribbean. New to the line and itinerary, Scott offers up his impressions and we both share our opinions about the excursions we took together in port.  So much in this episode, but if you long for additional information about the Mariner of the Seas, be sure to check out Episode #15. Download Episode #22 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode22_64.mp3 Mon, 24 May 2010 00:42:39 -0600 48:43 travel, cruising, travel, mexico, royal caribbean, mariner On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series The best of the best?  In this episode we'll talk about the luxury/premium lines, their smaller ships, and attention to detail.  Is the cost worth it and what makes them stand apart from the major lines?  Special thanks to our listeners for suggestions and recommendations! Download Episode #21 The best of the best?  In this episode we'll talk about the luxury/premium lines, their smaller ships, and attention to detail.  Is the cost worth it and what makes them stand apart from the major lines?  Special thanks to our listeners for suggestions and recommendations! Download Episode #21 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode21_64.mp3 Sat, 01 May 2010 17:15:11 -0600 38:41 travel, cruise, luxury, silversea, crystal, regent seven seas, seabourn On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Nearly all the major lines have a private beach resort or island in the Caribbean that might be on your cruise itinerary.  Why are cruise lines adding this stop and what's the advantage to the passenger?  Indeed, it's a rather packaged and consistent product compared to port cities.  We'll cover the many reasons why the "ship away from ship" experience is an ideal, fun beach day for families especially and what kind of activities are available ashore. Download Episode #20 Nearly all the major lines have a private beach resort or island in the Caribbean that might be on your cruise itinerary.  Why are cruise lines adding this stop and what's the advantage to the passenger?  Indeed, it's a rather packaged and consistent product compared to port cities.  We'll cover the many reasons why the "ship away from ship" experience is an ideal, fun beach day for families especially and what kind of activities are available ashore. Download Episode #20 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode20_64.mp3 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 21:57:21 -0600 40:35 cruise, cruising, travel, guides, ocean liner, vacation, private resorts, islands On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series In this episode of On Deck! we'll talk about the astounding number of short and weekend cruise options available in several places around the world like South Florida, California, England, Australia, Spain, South America and Southeast Asia. A great, affordable option for people in port cities who want to cruise, but don't want to take a lot of vacation time, or those looking to add a cruise vacation to land-based trip.  In the news, Crystal cruises, the refashioned Azamara Line, and Alaska's negotiation with the cruise lines over the $50/person tax. Download Episode #19 In this episode of On Deck! we'll talk about the astounding number of short and weekend cruise options available in several places around the world like South Florida, California, England, Australia, Spain, South America and Southeast Asia. A great, affordable option for people in port cities who want to cruise, but don't want to take a lot of vacation time, or those looking to add a cruise vacation to land-based trip.  In the news, Crystal cruises, the refashioned Azamara Line, and Alaska's negotiation with the cruise lines over the $50/person tax. Download Episode #19 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode19_64.mp3 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:05:31 -0600 35:09 cruise, cruising, travel, guides, ocean liner, vacation, weekend, 3-day On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series We discuss our Caribbean cruise aboard the new Celebrity Solstice a few months ago.  This cruise stopped in San Juan, St. Martin, Tortola, and Labadee, RCI's exclusive beach property in Haiti.  In this episode, we'll talk about the ship, its typical itinerary, and our impressions of the overall cruise.  In the news, more about NCL Epic's "Ice Bar" and updates to their Great Stirrup Cay, Cunards QM2 extends transatlantic trips and QV to visit the west coast of the US in 2011. Download Episode #18 We discuss our Caribbean cruise aboard the new Celebrity Solstice a few months ago.  This cruise stopped in San Juan, St. Martin, Tortola, and Labadee, RCI's exclusive beach property in Haiti.  In this episode, we'll talk about the ship, its typical itinerary, and our impressions of the overall cruise.  In the news, more about NCL Epic's "Ice Bar" and updates to their Great Stirrup Cay, Cunards QM2 extends transatlantic trips and QV to visit the west coast of the US in 2011. Download Episode #18 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode18_64.mp3 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 23:25:08 -0600 48:58 cruise, cruising, travel, guides, ocean liner, vacation, celebrity solstice, caribbean On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Art Auctions are an on board activity that you'll find on almost every cruise itinerary.  We'll discuss auctions (offer up some opinions, even) and what to expect from auctions if you've been curious and never attended them.  Allie briefly recaps her Carnival Paradise cruise.  In the news NCL adds new ports, Celebrity's iLounge, Crystal does Black Sea, and much more. Download Episode #17 Art Auctions are an on board activity that you'll find on almost every cruise itinerary.  We'll discuss auctions (offer up some opinions, even) and what to expect from auctions if you've been curious and never attended them.  Allie briefly recaps her Carnival Paradise cruise.  In the news NCL adds new ports, Celebrity's iLounge, Crystal does Black Sea, and much more. Download Episode #17 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode17_64.mp3 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 19:24:57 -0700 39:20 cruise, cruising, travel, art auctions, guides, ocean liner, vacation, paradise, mexico On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series We've been cruising!  After Allie's report on the Mariner, this week we'll hear Scott's account of his Caribbean cruise vacation out of Baltimore on the Celebrity Mercury last month.  This cruise visited Charleston, Key West, Nassau, and Cococay.  Hear what he has to say about the ship, ports, and sights. Download Episode #16 We've been cruising!  After Allie's report on the Mariner, this week we'll hear Scott's account of his Caribbean cruise vacation out of Baltimore on the Celebrity Mercury last month.  This cruise visited Charleston, Key West, Nassau, and Cococay.  Hear what he has to say about the ship, ports, and sights. Download Episode #16 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode16_64.mp3 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 15:54:50 -0700 45:12 cruise, cruising, travel, guides, ocean liner, vacation, mercury, caribbean On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Allie talks about her Mexican Riviera cruise aboard the Mariner of the Seas over New Year's 2009/2010.  She covers the ship and the ports: Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta.  Additionally, we have an interview with a fellow cruiser, Rich Sauriol about his booking experiences and his related comments about the Mexican Riviera itinerary. Download Episode #15 Allie's Video from this Cruise Allie talks about her Mexican Riviera cruise aboard the Mariner of the Seas over New Year's 2009/2010.  She covers the ship and the ports: Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta.  Additionally, we have an interview with a fellow cruiser, Rich Sauriol about his booking experiences and his related comments about the Mexican Riviera itinerary. Download Episode #15 Allie's Video from this Cruise http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode15_64.mp3 Sun, 31 Jan 2010 22:11:50 -0700 44:10 travel, cruise, mexico, mariner of the seas On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series In our first episode of 2010 we'll discuss the shopping options on board and talk a little about shopping ashore.  You might find some deals on board -- or maybe not.   What is "Gross Tonnage"?  In the news, the "Cougar Cruise", the Epic's new solo cabin option, and Celebrity's renovations to the Millenium class ships. Download Episode #14 In our first episode of 2010 we'll discuss the shopping options on board and talk a little about shopping ashore.  You might find some deals on board -- or maybe not.   What is "Gross Tonnage"?  In the news, the "Cougar Cruise", the Epic's new solo cabin option, and Celebrity's renovations to the Millenium class ships. Download Episode #14 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode14_64.mp3 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 05:52:44 -0700 36:34 cruise, shopping, duty free, gift shops, souvenier On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Entertainment on a cruise ship is nearly 24/7, from pool bands and live shows to string quartets, we look at the entertainment choices and some exceptional entertainment features on the major lines.  In the news, the new Utopia world cruise and Celebrity's Azamara line notching it up a bit. Download Episode #13 Entertainment on a cruise ship is nearly 24/7, from pool bands and live shows to string quartets, we look at the entertainment choices and some exceptional entertainment features on the major lines.  In the news, the new Utopia world cruise and Celebrity's Azamara line notching it up a bit. Download Episode #13 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode13_64.mp3 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:22:57 -0700 38:13 cruise, entertainment, shows, live music On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series In this episode we cover the fantastic destination Greece.  Islands and mainlands full of culture, history, and great food.  In the news, Windjammer is being reinvented, Allure Oasis's sister ship, and P&O cruises returns to Alaska. Download Episode #12 In this episode we cover the fantastic destination Greece.  Islands and mainlands full of culture, history, and great food.  In the news, Windjammer is being reinvented, Allure Oasis's sister ship, and P&O cruises returns to Alaska. Download Episode #12 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode12_64.mp3 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 03:42:37 -0700 37:42 cruise, cruising, travel, travel guides, ocean liner, vacation, greece, mediterranean, santorini, mykonos, rhodes On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Holiday and group cruising have a lot in common. Many families and friends have extra time off to travel together.  In this episode, we’ll let you know what to expect on holiday cruises as well as information about planning a pleasant experience with your travel group.  In the news, Carnival Dream christened in NY, Oasis (not the band) arrives in Port Everglades, a preview of the Disney Dream, and Celebrity to host the next "Soap Cruise." Download Episode #11 Holiday and group cruising have a lot in common. Many families and friends have extra time off to travel together.  In this episode, we’ll let you know what to expect on holiday cruises as well as information about planning a pleasant experience with your travel group.  In the news, Carnival Dream christened in NY, Oasis (not the band) arrives in Port Everglades, a preview of the Disney Dream, and Celebrity to host the next "Soap Cruise." Download Episode #11 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode11_64.mp3 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:30:04 -0700 40:46 cruise, cruising, travel, travel guides, ocean liner, vacation, group, holiday, xmas, new year On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series To celebrate their tenth episode (don't laugh, most podcasts don't survive 2 episodes), Scott & Allie talk about their top ten favorite things about cruising.  In the news, security alerts in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean detour many cruise lines, Oasis of the Seas comes to America, and Carnival's Ocean Village ships are turned over to P&O. Download Episode #10 To celebrate their tenth episode (don't laugh, most podcasts don't survive 2 episodes), Scott & Allie talk about their top ten favorite things about cruising.  In the news, security alerts in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean detour many cruise lines, Oasis of the Seas comes to America, and Carnival's Ocean Village ships are turned over to P&O. Download Episode #10 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode10_64.mp3 Sat, 31 Oct 2009 15:56:33 -0600 36:36 cruise, cruising, travel, travel guides, ocean liner, vacation, dining, wine On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Dining on your cruise is probably the one activity EVERYONE participates in.  In this episode we talk about the dining options on many cruise lines: main dining, dress codes, specialty restaurants, cafes, in-room dining, and buffets.  If wine is something you want to explore more, a cruise is a great place to get started since more and more lines are putting an emphasis on it.  We have a fantastic interview with wine professional and avid cruiser Marci Norkin who gives some insight about wine-related offerings on cruises including taking advantage of wine classes, wine packages, and sommeliers. Download Episode #9 Dining on your cruise is probably the one activity EVERYONE participates in.  In this episode we talk about the dining options on many cruise lines: main dining, dress codes, specialty restaurants, cafes, in-room dining, and buffets.  If wine is something you want to explore more, a cruise is a great place to get started since more and more lines are putting an emphasis on it.  We have a fantastic interview with wine professional and avid cruiser Marci Norkin who gives some insight about wine-related offerings on cruises including taking advantage of wine classes, wine packages, and sommeliers. Download Episode #9 http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode9_64.mp3 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 03:32:17 -0600 46:36 cruise, cruising, travel, travel guides, ocean liner, vacation, dining, wine On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series The second most popular destination is Alaska.  In this episode, we'll cover the highlights of the most popular route in the area which stops at Ketchikan, Skagway, Juneau, and Hubbard Glacier. And Alaska is in the news again, the lines are pursuing the lawsuit against the state's $50/head tax.  Also, some interesting themed cruises are coming up    The second most popular destination is Alaska.  In this episode, we'll cover the highlights of the most popular route in the area which stops at Ketchikan, Skagway, Juneau, and Hubbard Glacier. And Alaska is in the news again, the lines are pursuing the lawsuit against the state's $50/head tax.  Also, some interesting themed cruises are coming up    http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode8_64.mp3 Sat, 03 Oct 2009 17:11:08 -0600 42:45 cruise, cruising, travel, travel guides, ocean liner, vacation On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Cabin choice is an important and sometimes overlooked option when booking a cruise.  Many times booking through an agent or online you may not even know what all the options are.  In this program we'll discuss the different kinds of rooms and things to consider when choosing your cabin.  In the news we talk about the new Disney Dream, Holland America's revised loyalty program, and Celebrity's move to the flexible dining option.    Cabin choice is an important and sometimes overlooked option when booking a cruise.  Many times booking through an agent or online you may not even know what all the options are.  In this program we'll discuss the different kinds of rooms and things to consider when choosing your cabin.  In the news we talk about the new Disney Dream, Holland America's revised loyalty program, and Celebrity's move to the flexible dining option.    http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode7r_64.mp3 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 06:49:35 -0600 39:48 cruising, cruise ship, ocean liner On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Loyalty programs for cruise lines offer benefits based on how often you cruise with them and the class of room you book.  In this episode, we talk generally about the benefits offered under most of the popular cruise lines and what we think might be the future of these programs.  Additionally, we discuss casino Player Club programs, cruise line affiliated credit cards, and Amex Platinum Travel.  In the news: Cayman to get a dock, hurricane season cruising, NCL's customer forum, and the new ship Seabourn Odyssey.    Loyalty programs for cruise lines offer benefits based on how often you cruise with them and the class of room you book.  In this episode, we talk generally about the benefits offered under most of the popular cruise lines and what we think might be the future of these programs.  Additionally, we discuss casino Player Club programs, cruise line affiliated credit cards, and Amex Platinum Travel.  In the news: Cayman to get a dock, hurricane season cruising, NCL's customer forum, and the new ship Seabourn Odyssey.    http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode6_64.mp3 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 04:40:21 -0600 39:20 cruising, cruise ship, ocean liner On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series The most popular cruise destination is the Caribbean.  Although there's enough information about cruising the Caribbean to fill libraries, we touch on some of the highlights of the region and choosing excursions.   Also a little background on how the Caribbean fits into the beginning of the modern cruising industry.  In the news: the new Norwegian Epic, Carnival's "Behind the Fun", and Celebrity's new enrichment programs.   The most popular cruise destination is the Caribbean.  Although there's enough information about cruising the Caribbean to fill libraries, we touch on some of the highlights of the region and choosing excursions.   Also a little background on how the Caribbean fits into the beginning of the modern cruising industry.  In the news: the new Norwegian Epic, Carnival's "Behind the Fun", and Celebrity's new enrichment programs.   http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode5_64.mp3 Sat, 01 Aug 2009 17:04:11 -0600 47:04 cruising, cruise ship, ocean liner On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series This week's topic wraps up Episode 3.   Since there was so much information, we decided to split the episode into two 30 minute downloads.  In this part of the episode we cover news about the new ship Carnival Dream, the Alaska $50 passenger tax, and check-in kiosks in Miami.  On our topic, we discuss getting to the ship, going through the check-in process.  Be sure to download the second half of this episode for the rest of our topic.   This week's topic wraps up Episode 3.   Since there was so much information, we decided to split the episode into two 30 minute downloads.  In this part of the episode we cover news about the new ship Carnival Dream, the Alaska $50 passenger tax, and check-in kiosks in Miami.  On our topic, we discuss getting to the ship, going through the check-in process.  Be sure to download the second half of this episode for the rest of our topic.   http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode4a_64.mp3 Fri, 17 Jul 2009 22:18:30 -0600 33:12 cruise, cruising, travel, travel guides, ocean liner, vacation On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series In this section of Cruising for Beginners Part II, we cover exploring the ship, getting into your room, your daily newsletter, the safety drill, dinner and dining options, using the lounges, and the different entertainment options.  In this section of Cruising for Beginners Part II, we cover exploring the ship, getting into your room, your daily newsletter, the safety drill, dinner and dining options, using the lounges, and the different entertainment options.  http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode4b_64.mp3 Fri, 17 Jul 2009 18:25:56 -0600 30:00 cruise, cruising, travel, travel guides, ocean liner, vacation On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series What are the things you need to know before your cruise?  In this episode, we talk about passports, packing, your cruise packet, air travel arrangements, currency.  Also we have an interview with Joe and Mira who were taking their very first cruise in Alaska when we met them on the Millenium in May. What are the things you need to know before your cruise?  In this episode, we talk about passports, packing, your cruise packet, air travel arrangements, currency.  Also we have an interview with Joe and Mira who were taking their very first cruise in Alaska when we met them on the Millenium in May. http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode3_64.mp3 Sat, 04 Jul 2009 05:00:00 -0600 42:25 cruise, cruising, travel, travel guides On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series In this second episode, we explore the things you need to keep in mind when choosing a cruise that is suitable for your tastes and vacationing lifestyle.  We cover topics such as researching, ship types, cabin types, food, and budget. In this second episode, we explore the things you need to keep in mind when choosing a cruise that is suitable for your tastes and vacationing lifestyle.  We cover topics such as researching, ship types, cabin types, food, and budget. http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode2_64.mp3 Sun, 21 Jun 2009 01:36:17 -0600 42:30 cruising, cruise ships, travel, guide On Deck! Podcast On Deck! Podcast Series Some of the thoughts and views being propagated about cruising are outdated.  Really.  In this introductory episode we discuss the reasons for cruising, attempt to dispell some of those tired myths, and explain why it's the best deal out there.  This episode was recorded while on the Celebrity Millenium during our Alaska cruise in May 2009.  Some of the thoughts and views being propagated about cruising are outdated.  Really.  In this introductory episode we discuss the reasons for cruising, attempt to dispell some of those tired myths, and explain why it's the best deal out there.  This episode was recorded while on the Celebrity Millenium during our Alaska cruise in May 2009.  http://www.ondeckpodcast.com/components/com_podcast/media/OnDeckEpisode1_64.mp3 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 08:27:31 -0600 43:58 cruising, cruise ships, travel, guide