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Welcome Back to Destination: Luxe Weekly
Forget the usual cookie-cutter cruises — this week we’re diving headfirst into ships that are bigger, bolder, and smarter than anything you’ve seen before. From Miami’s new Margaritaville mega-ship to Virgin’s daring new pricing model, the cruise world is shaking things up, and I’ve got the inside scoop. Plus, I’m sharing my full take on the colossal Star of the Seas and a travel tip that will make your next post-cruise day feel like a luxury upgrade
Let’s Dive in
The Luxe Lowdown
🍹 Margaritaville at Sea — Bigger, Better, and Surprisingly Affordable
Margaritaville is officially growing on cruisers, and it’s easy to see why. Their newest ship, sailing from Miami, isn’t just a floating resort — it’s a vibrant, accessible playground
Prices won’t break the bank, Miami is a prime departure port, and the energy onboard is infectious. Expect endless live music, tropical vibes, and enough margaritas to make you forget land exists. For those who love fun over formality, this ship is a no-brainer
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🛳 Princess Cruises’ New Giant — Alaska, Brace Yourself!
The newest delivery from Fincantieri is a masterpiece. I’ll be sailing on this beauty in May, and the anticipation is real. Massive, elegant, and packed with amenities, it promises the ultimate Alaska experience
Think jaw-dropping views, luxe dining, and enough activities to fill your day without ever leaving the ship. If glacier fjords and untouched wilderness are on your bucket list, this ship is your front-row ticket. Adventure meets comfort in a way only Princess can deliver
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💸 Virgin Voyages Reinvents Cruise Pricing
Virgin isn’t just selling cruises — they’re redefining the game. Their new tiered pricing system could be a win for cruisers… if the inclusions are crystal clear. Think perks, drinks, and experiences bundled differently depending on your cabin.
The bold part?
This is the kind of system that rewards planners who read the fine print and pick the right tier. Done right, you can snag a high-value sailing that feels ultra-luxe without the jaw-dropping cost. It’s disruptive, intriguing, and worth keeping an eye on
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Alec Reviews: Star of the Seas
Boarding the world’s largest cruise ship is like stepping into a city at sea — dazzling, overwhelming, and impossible to ignore. With 7,000 guests, multiple neighborhoods, and more dining, entertainment, and adventure options than you can imagine, the Star of the Seas promises a cruise experience on a scale few ships can match
I spent several days exploring everything from quiet lounges to bustling pools, sampling countless eateries, and hunting down hidden gems, and here’s what stood out — both the jaw-dropping highs and the areas where even a megaship has limits
Noteworthy: The scale of the Star of the Seas is jaw-dropping, with something happening around every corner and at every hour. Complimentary dining options are incredible, and the fact that pizza is available late into the night feels like a secret superpower
Seating is plentiful everywhere, so you never have to hunt for a spot to relax or eat, and the ship’s design constantly surprises and delights, making it feel like a playground for adults
Room for Improvement: With a ship this massive, it is impossible to do everything in a single sailing, and some pools, bars, and shows get crowded quickly, making timing everything. Without a clear plan, you’ll inevitably miss certain experiences, and FOMO can sneak up on you mid-cruise if you don’t prioritize
Insider’s Insight: Popular shows and dining venues fill up almost instantly, so setting reminders for reservation openings is crucial if you want to guarantee a spot. Exploring quieter decks and hidden lounges is where the real magic happens, giving the ship a more intimate feel despite its enormous size
Bottom line: Colossal, exhilarating, and impossible to experience fully in one trip — Star of the Seas isn’t for the timid. This is a ship that dares you to chase adventure, push limits, and live larger than life. Plan your moves, claim your spots, and embrace the chaos — miss it, and you’re missing one of the most jaw-dropping cruise experiences on the planet
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See you next week,
– Alec