Share

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

Magically Cruising Cruise Podcast

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

Ep. 52

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 representation of a cruise line and what to expect if you're considering one.


From tips on speciality dining to managing expectations on short sailings, we cover it all.


View all the MSC Virtuosa Drink Menus

Get the inside track on the Exclusive Shore Excursions for MSC Yacht Club


Book a Mini Cruise from the UK with Magical Traveller

Royal Caribbean Cruises from Southampton both short and full-length voyages with Magical Traveller

More episodes

View all episodes

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

    53:08||Ep. 60
    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 SeasView Royal Caribbean 2025 Europe sailings.Take A Look At A Grand Suite on Oasis of the SeasSail Royal Caribbean from Southampton
  • 59. Visiting Rome onboard Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady, what could go wrong?

    50:00||Ep. 59
    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 TourHow to Get to the Cruise Port From Rome by TrainVirgin Voyages Ultimate GuideGet More Cruise Tips and Advice
  • 58. How do you choose your Cruise?

    55:12||Ep. 58
    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 ToolCheck out our Digital and Printable Cruise Planning Tips.First timers guide to sailing with Disney Cruise LineSee Our Cruise Guides For Families
  • 57. Things You Need To Know About Booking Royal Caribbean Pre Bookable Extras

    54:17||Ep. 57
    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.
  • 56. First Look at Epic Universe coming to Orlando 2025

    50:22||Ep. 56
    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 about.Plan an Orlando Holiday with Magical TravellerTake a look at Sapphire Falls Resort.View the Magical Traveller Cruise Search ToolAnd see more about Epic Universe.
  • 55. Can you visit Universal Orlando before your cruise?

    40:31||Ep. 55
    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 your time and fit it all in? Sarah and Kieran dive into the details!Plan your Florida Cruise with Magical TravellerSee our review of Sapphire FallsRoyal Caribbean Cruise Finder ToolAlso check out our review and photo tour of Mariner of the Seas
  • 54. Are Cruise Drinks Packages Still Good Value

    45:56||Ep. 54
    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 TabAnd check out the Celebrity Cruises Drinks PackagesGet all the details of the Disney Fantasy sailing from Southampton in 2025
  • 53. Tips for sailing from Athens (Piraeus)

    30:05||Ep. 53
    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 ToolGet Cruise Tips and Tricks6 Hotels in Athens with Rooftop PoolsGet our free printable cruise door ducks