A majestic cruise ship sailing through calm, deep-blue ocean waters at golden hour

Your trusted guide to cruise ships, cabins, dining, entertainment, and onboard casinos.

Detailed, practical reviews and guides to help you plan and evaluate your next cruise—from cabin choices to casino atmospheres.

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Plan smarter, cruise better.

Sea Travel Journal is a New Zealand–focused cruise travel portal offering detailed, honest reviews of ships, cabins, restaurants, entertainment, and onboard infrastructure. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, our guides help you make informed decisions—with a special emphasis on the often-overlooked world of cruise ship casinos.

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Cruise Ships

Cruise Ships

In-depth reviews of the latest and most popular cruise ships, from deck layouts to onboard atmosphere.

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Cabins

Cabins

Honest cabin reviews covering size, layout, amenities, and value across different categories.

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Restaurants

Restaurants

Detailed dining reviews, from main dining rooms to specialty restaurants, with menu highlights and tips.

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Entertainment

Entertainment

What to expect from onboard shows, activities, pools, spas, and theaters.

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Onboard Infrastructure

Onboard Infrastructure

Practical guides to elevators, accessibility, deck plans, and other essential ship features.

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Cruise Casinos

Cruise Casinos

Everything you need to know about onboard casinos: layouts, games, atmosphere, and dress codes.

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Casino Reviews

Casino Reviews

Detailed reviews of specific cruise ship casinos, including poker, roulette, blackjack, and more.

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Top 10 Experiences

Top 10 Cruise Experiences

Curated lists of the best cruise experiences, from dining to entertainment to casino action.

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Casino Spotlight

Cruise ship casinos offer a unique blend of excitement and elegance. Our dedicated reviews cover everything from game selection to dress codes, so you know exactly what to expect before you step aboard.

Poker

Find out which ships offer the best poker rooms, cash games, and tournaments.

Read poker reviews

Blackjack

Discover the best blackjack tables, rules, and betting limits on major cruise lines.

Read blackjack reviews

Top 10 Cruise Experiences

  1. Sunset dining on the open deck: a romantic and unforgettable way to enjoy the ocean views.

  2. A night at the onboard casino: try your luck at poker, roulette, or blackjack in a glamorous setting.

  3. Relaxing in the ship's spa and thermal suite: the perfect way to unwind at sea.

  4. Watching a Broadway-style show in the main theater: top-tier entertainment included in your fare.

  5. Exploring a new port of call: from New Zealand's stunning coastlines to tropical islands.

See the full Top 10 list

Good to Know

  • Check the ship's deck plan before booking to ensure your cabin is in a quiet area.
  • Casino dress codes vary by ship and time; smart casual is usually acceptable, but check our reviews for specifics.
  • Book specialty restaurants early, as popular venues fill up fast on sea days.

From the Editor

We believe that a great cruise is all about the details. That's why we go beyond the glossy brochures to give you honest, first-hand insights—including the casino floors that many guides overlook.

Ready to plan your perfect cruise?

Browse our in-depth reviews and guides to make the most of your time at sea.

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