I started the blog in August 2006, and joined BoardingArea sometime in late 2008. Unlike many of my BA brethren, I blog about a smorgasbord of all things travel, not just miles and points. Most of my airline topics are written from the perspective of someone who came from the airline side of things, to the annoyance of some. But the other things I write about are really just based in what I’ve experienced over the years. One of the things I write about often is cruising. I realize that’s not something anyone else on BoardingArea writes about often, and I’m OK with that. There’s a small, but dedicated group of readers of the blog that come here for that, and I’m happy to have them. I found myself entertained with today’s email that basically said “why do you write about cruising?” Well, I’ll answer that here in no particular order of importance.
- No one else on BoardingArea does.
- No one else (that I’m aware of) in the miles and points space does.
- I like cruising.
- I like sharing my enthusiasm for cruising.
- I like hearing about and sharing in others’ enthusiasm for cruising.
- My SEO data says I’m not the only one that likes cruising.
In other words, I enjoy cruising, talking about cruising, and my customers seem to appreciate it. Therefore, I will continue to write about cruising. Yes, we’ve been on Quantum of the Seas overload around here over the last week or so, but Quantum is a new ship, there’s some interest in cruising’s first Smart Ship, I’ll be cruising on her in a few weeks, and I enjoy sharing all the details I can get about the new ship. I’m most looking forward to boarding the ship and sharing up front details, but I’ll be sure to write about other things too. Thank you for reading!
-MJ, November 12, 2014
I’m also a cruising fan – platinum on Princess, trying to work my way up to Elite for free laundry. 😉 Please keep writing about cruises!
Keep doing it…I like the variety. I’m taking my first cruise in January and have enjoyed your tips/advice.
Keep it coming – I’m a frequent cruiser – 45 Years old and close to 40 cruises so far – Everything from Carnival (Never again) to Azamara and the ships in-between – Off to Australlia/New Zealand on Celebrity in 8 weeks – All in Business class for my entire family thanks to everything i’ve learned on BoardingArea – Many of the BA bloggers rehash the same thing over and over – Its nice to hear something different- How many times can you hear about the Chase credit card deal that is being hawked so the blogger can make the affiliate bonus??
MJ, I also love cruising (going on another in January) so I enjoy your posts. Keep up the good work.
I like your focus. I received a Crystal cruise as a bday gift when I was in my 40s. Now I’m/we’re loyal Crystal cruisers. Have you ever thought about trying a luxury line? Possibly if you picked the right cruise, & least expensive cabin you might be surprised at the price. And you wouldn’t have to worry about drinks, tipping, etc. Throw in paying with an Amex Plat and you’re really getting value.
Hi MJ,
I hope you continue to blog about cruising for a long time to come.I first came across your blog a few years ago when I was looking for a review of Celebrity Equinox.
I live in Scotland and do not collect points etc but I always find your site entertaining and very informative.Had a wonderful river cruise earlier this year in Bordeaux, lots of nice chateaux and vinyards!
Enjoy your Regal Princess cruise! 🙂
MJ, I am like you I also love to cruise, just got back from 17 days cruising Asia in October and we are going to board the brand new Legal Princess to Caribbean next month.
Cruising is a great value if you can find the right time and the right ship.
I am very much happy with elite status with Princess, get alot of benefit come with it.
mj – would you please comment on what I see as the “great mystery – where marketing meets physics”.
On the cruises we take, the higher the deck, the higher the price – and by lots. But, applying physics, the higher the deck, the more the side-to-side sway and worse ride.
Crew members have confirmed this to us.
Meanwhile, we continue to book the “cheap seats” and love it.
Frame of reference, the ships have a standard cabin size and balcony (Regent).
Thoughts?
Hi Colleen. I’m sure that lower and towards the middle is closer to a ship’s center of gravity and provides a smoother ride. But much like hotels, apartments, etc., “higher” is perceived as better, and can command a higher price.