Published by Rope Drop Entertainment
Join us On Deck as we cover Cruise News, Planning, Trip Reports, and More. We will sail from Royal to Disney to Norwegian. With Michelle McKnight of Touring and Cruises Travel and Doug McKnight of Rope Drop Radio.
Listen on Apple Podcasts45 min
RDOD — Our Norwegian Viva Mediterranean Trip Report (Part 1): Venice to Athens 🔥 Teaser (Apple Podcasts Optimized) From an early morning in St. Mark's Basilica to walking the ancient walls of Dubrovnik and standing atop the Acropolis in Athens, our 10-night Norwegian Viva cruise was filled with unforgettable ports. In Part 1 of our trip report, we're sharing our favorite excursions, travel tips, hotels, and everything you need to know before cruising the Mediterranean. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck , Doug and Michelle kick off the first installment of their 10-night Norwegian Viva Mediterranean cruise trip report . This episode focuses on the first half of the vacation, covering the ports, hotels, excursions, and travel logistics before and during the cruise. We discuss spending time in Venice , embarking from Ravenna , walking the famous city walls in Dubrovnik , exploring Stari Bar in Montenegro, and finishing with an unforgettable day in Athens , including an early visit to the Acropolis. If you're planning a Mediterranean cruise—or just dreaming about one—this episode is full of practical tips and firsthand experiences. In This Episode ✈️ Pre-Cruise in Venice Staying at Hotel Al Sole Why we chose Venice before the cruise Exploring the canals and city 🏛️ Venice Excursion Early entry to St. Mark's Basilica Touring Doge's Palace Exclusive terrace views over St. Mark's Square Why arriving early made all the difference 🚢 Embarkation in Ravenna Staying at Hotel Mosaico Easy transfer to the cruise port??? Boarding the Norwegian Viva 🇭🇷 Dubrovnik, Croatia Walking the famous city walls Admission costs (€40) Incredible views of the Adriatic Tips for visiting Old Town 🇲🇪 Bar, Montenegro Taxi to Stari Barr Exploring the historic town Relaxing at the beach Why this port pleasantly surprised us 🇬🇷 Athens, Greece 8:00 a.m. entry to the Acropolis Why early tickets are worth it Jewelry-making workshop with a local artisan Using the Free Now app for transportation Favorite moments in one of the world's oldest cities 📖 Word of the Day Port Of Call — brought to you by Back to the Mouse 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
59 min
Was our first 10-night cruise on the Norwegian Viva everything we hoped it would be? 🚢 From sailing out of Ravenna, Italy, to entertainment, incredible dining, and our honest thoughts after 10 nights onboard, we're sharing everything you need to know before booking a Norwegian Viva cruise. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck , Doug and Michelle are back from an unforgettable 10-night cruise aboard the Norwegian Viva , and we're giving you our complete trip report! We cover every part of the experience—from flights to Italy and embarking in Ravenna to the cabin, dining, drink package, entertainment, and onboard activities. We also share what surprised us most, what we'd do differently, and whether the Norwegian Viva lives up to the hype. If you've been considering Norwegian Cruise Line, planning a Mediterranean cruise, or wondering how the Viva compares to Disney Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean, this episode is packed with firsthand tips and honest opinions. 📖 Word of the Day Jet Lag — brought to you by Back to the Mouse 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
51 min
The McKnight girls set sail on the Disney Fantasy for 4 nights! Listen to all their adventures. 📖 Word of the Day Castaway — brought to you by Back to the Mouse 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
46 min
What's it like to sail the Greek Islands aboard a National Geographic expedition ship? Lauren Shields from Rope Drop Radio joins us to share her incredible journey through Greece, exploring stunning islands, unique excursions, and a style of cruising that's very different from the mega-ships most of us know. RDOD – Greek Islands Cruise Trip Report with Lauren Shields This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle welcome Lauren Shields from Rope Drop Radio to discuss her recent Greek Islands cruise aboard a National Geographic expedition ship. From picturesque villages and crystal-clear waters to immersive cultural experiences and small-ship exploration, Lauren shares what made this cruise unlike any other she's taken. We discuss the ship, the ports, the excursions, the food, and whether expedition-style cruising could be the perfect fit for travelers looking for a more intimate and destination-focused experience. If Greece is on your bucket list—or you're curious about expedition cruising—this episode is packed with firsthand insights and inspiration. 📖 Word of the Day Archipelago — brought to you by Back to the Mouse 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
28 min
Planning an Alaska cruise? Before you pack your bags, make sure you know these essential do's and don'ts! 🐋🏔️ From whale watching and glacier days to packing mistakes and excursion planning, we're sharing the tips that can make or break your Alaska cruise vacation. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck , Doug and Michelle tackle one of cruising's most popular bucket-list destinations: Alaska . Whether you're sailing on Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, or another cruise line, Alaska is unlike any other cruise destination. The scenery is breathtaking, the wildlife is incredible, and the planning can be very different from a Caribbean sailing. We're sharing our favorite Alaska cruise do's and don'ts to help you make the most of your adventure. From packing and excursions to glacier viewing and wildlife spotting, this episode is packed with practical advice for first-time and returning Alaska cruisers alike. If Alaska is on your cruise wish list, this is an episode you'll want to save for later. 📖 Word of the Day Breaching — brought to you by Back to the Mouse When a whale launches itself out of the water and crashes back into the ocean. One of the most spectacular sights you might witness on an Alaska cruise! 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
26 min
This week on Rope Drop On Deck , Doug and Michelle pull back the curtain on their next cruise adventure: a 10-night sailing aboard the Norwegian Viva . Why Norwegian? Why the Viva? And why a 10-night itinerary instead of a shorter cruise? We break down the decision-making process, what ultimately convinced us to book, and the experiences we're looking forward to most. From dining and entertainment to the itinerary and unique features onboard, we're discussing what caught our attention and what we're hoping to learn as we branch out and try something new. Whether you're considering Norwegian Cruise Line for the first time or you're simply curious about the Viva, this episode is a fun look at how experienced cruisers choose their next vacation. In This Episode 🚢 Why We Chose This Cruise What sparked the idea of booking the Norwegian Viva Why a 10-night cruise appealed to us How it compared to other options we considered 🌎 The Itinerary What destinations we'll be visiting Why this route stood out What we're most excited to see 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
37 min
What happens when you combine an adults-only getaway with concierge-level luxury on a Disney Cruise? 🚢✨ Lauren from Rope Drop Radio joins us to share her first-ever concierge experience aboard the Disney Fantasy —and whether it's truly worth the upgrade. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck , Doug and Michelle welcome Lauren from Rope Drop Radio to talk about her recent 4-night Disney Fantasy cruise —with a twist: this was an adults-only sailing AND her first time staying concierge . Lauren walks us through the entire experience, from priority boarding and exclusive lounge access to elevated dining, stateroom perks, and what concierge really adds to a Disney Cruise. We also dive into what it's like sailing Disney without kids, how the Fantasy holds up, and whether concierge is worth the cost for your next cruise. If you've ever debated upgrading to concierge or taking a kid-free Disney cruise, this episode is packed with real-world insight. In This Episode 🚢 Why This Cruise? Why Lauren chose a 4-night Disney Fantasy sailing Adults-only decision and expectations First time trying concierge 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
56 min
What's it really like to sail through the Panama Canal on a Disney ship? 🚢🌎 Joe from Back to the Mouse joins us to break down his epic two-week Panama Canal cruise on the Disney Magic , from the legendary canal crossing to unique ports, sea days, and why this bucket-list sailing is unlike any other Disney cruise. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck , Doug and Michelle welcome Joe from BackToTheMouse.com to talk about one of Disney Cruise Line's most iconic itineraries — a Panama Canal cruise aboard the Disney Magic . Joe shares a full trip report from this extraordinary two-week sailing, including what makes a repositioning cruise special, what it's like transiting the Panama Canal, how the long sailing differs from a traditional Disney cruise, and why many cruisers consider this a bucket-list voyage. From canal crossing day to unique port stops, extra sea days, entertainment, food, and onboard atmosphere, this episode is packed with practical insight and cruise dreaming. If you've ever wondered whether a Panama Canal sailing is worth the time and money — don't miss this one. 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
23 min
RDOD — Lauren's Disney Destiny Sailing Trip Report 🔥 Teaser (Apple Podcasts Optimized) Fresh off the Disney Destiny, Lauren joins Rope Drop On Deck to share what it was really like onboard Disney Cruise Line's newest ship. From first impressions and dining to shows, lounges, and whether it lives up to the hype, this trip report is packed with firsthand insight. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck , Doug and Michelle welcome Lauren from Rope Drop Radio to talk all about her recent sailing on the Disney Destiny . Lauren shares her full trip report, from the excitement of boarding Disney Cruise Line's newest ship to the standout moments that made this sailing special. We dive into the stateroom, dining, entertainment, ship vibe, and how the Destiny compares to other Disney ships. If you've been wondering whether the Disney Destiny is worth booking—or just want to hear what a seasoned Disney traveler thought—this episode is full of practical takeaways, honest reactions, and plenty of cruise excitement. 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
52 min
It's official — Disney Cruise Line has revealed its newest ship: the Disney Destiny . 🚢✨ What does the name mean? What can we expect onboard? And how will it compare to the Wish and Treasure? Alex Cenac joins Doug to break it all down. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug is joined by Alex Cenac to react to the exciting announcement of Disney Cruise Line's newest ship — the Disney Destiny . From the meaning behind the name to what it could signal about theming, entertainment, dining, and overall vibe, we dive into everything we know (and what we're predicting) about this highly anticipated addition to the Disney fleet. We also compare the Destiny to other Wish-class ships and discuss how Disney continues to evolve its cruise experience. If you're a Disney Cruise Line fan or planning a future sailing, this episode gives you an early look at what might be coming next. 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
41 min
Twinkling Christmas markets. Snow-dusted villages. Mulled wine in hand. 🎄🚢 This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Joe Chung of Disney Deciphered joins us to share his unforgettable Christmas markets Adventures By Disney river cruise and why river cruising might be the most magical vacation you've never considered. Episode Summary This week, Doug and Michelle welcome Joe Chung to Rope Drop On Deck for a special episode all about his Christmas markets river cruise experience. If you've ever wondered how river cruising compares to ocean cruising — especially during the holiday season — this episode helps break it all down. Joe shares his cruising background, why he chose a Christmas markets itinerary, what surprised him most, and how river cruise excursions differ from traditional ocean sailings. From intimate ships and festive dining to immersive European port experiences, we explore why river cruising may be the perfect adults-focused getaway. Whether you're a seasoned ocean cruiser curious about something new or dreaming of a cozy holiday sailing, this episode is packed with helpful insight. In This Episode Welcome Word of the Day Stern — brought to you by BackToTheMouse.com 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
26 min
Thinking about leaving the kids at home for your next cruise? 🚢 Sailing without the family doesn't mean you have to book Virgin — Disney and Royal Caribbean might surprise you. This week we break down five powerful reasons to cruise as adults only , and why it might be the most relaxing vacation you've taken in years. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck , Doug and Michelle dive into a topic more and more cruisers are curious about — adult-only cruising on family-friendly cruise lines . You don't have to sail on an adults-only brand to enjoy a peaceful, elevated getaway. Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both offer incredible experiences for couples and friend groups traveling without kids. From relaxing adult-only spaces to adventurous excursions and elevated dining, we share five big reasons why leaving the kids at home might be exactly what you need . If you've ever wondered whether a Disney or Royal cruise is worth it without children — this episode is for you. In This Episode Word of the Day Port — brought to you by BackToTheMouse.com 📰 Cruise News A local judge suspends work on Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day Mexico development in Costa Maya Royal Caribbean officially orders new Discovery Class cruise ships New Norwegian Cruise Line air policy update 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
43 min
"What is there REALLY to do on a Disney Cruise?" From Broadway-caliber shows and character meet-and-greets to trivia, tastings, water slides, and late-night adult fun, we're counting down 26 amazing things you can do on a Disney Cruise in 2026 —and that's before you even step off the ship. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle answer a listener's question that comes up all the time: What is there to do on a Disney Cruise? The short answer? A LOT. In this episode, we break down 26 onboard activities and experiences that make Disney Cruise Line such a standout vacation—whether you're sailing with kids, teens, adults, or a mix of everyone. From daytime fun to late-night entertainment, included activities to specialty experiences, this is the ultimate guide to what fills your days at sea in 2026. In This Episode Word of the Day Starboard — a nautical essential for cruisers. By Back To The Mouse Cruise News Adventure stops at Port Canaveral New Norwegian ship AURA coming in 2027 Royal Caribbean & Celebrity loyalty points changes Word of the day thanks to Back To The Mouse . 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
58 min
What's it really like to sail the Disney Destiny? Alex Cenac joins Rope Drop On Deck to share a firsthand trip report from Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, breaking down the staterooms, dining, entertainment, and standout moments that make the Destiny one of the most talked-about cruises right now. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle welcome Alex Cenac of Touring and Crusies for a full Disney Destiny trip report . Fresh off the ship, Alex walks us through their sailing from embarkation to debarkation, sharing honest impressions, surprises, and tips for future cruisers. From first steps onboard and overall ship vibe to dining experiences, shows, and what sets the Destiny apart from other Disney ships, this episode is packed with real-world insight for anyone considering a Destiny sailing—or just wanting to know if the hype is justified. Word of the day thanks to Back To The Mouse . 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
30 min
It's a brand-new year—and the best cruises of 2026 are already filling up. From ideal sail dates and hot itineraries to new ships everyone's buzzing about, we're breaking down exactly what you should be booking now (and what mistakes to avoid) if a 2026 cruise is on your calendar. Planning a 2026 Cruise? Here's What to Book (and When) This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle kick off the new year with a must-listen planning episode all about booking cruises for 2026 . Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, timing matters—and 2026 brings unique opportunities, new ships, and a few scheduling wrinkles you'll want to plan around. We cover the first things you should consider before booking, which months offer the best value, when prices spike, and which itineraries and ships are generating the most excitement. If a cruise is in your future, this episode will help you book smarter and avoid common mistakes. Welcome & Apple Podcast Review Thanks to jacobsonFive for the 5-star review! Word of the Day Forward — because planning ahead is the key to cruise success. Cruise News The latest cruise headlines. 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
28 min
Top 5 Onboard Activities with Junior Reporter Sam McKnight 🔥 What do kids REALLY love most on a cruise ship? Junior Reporter Sam McKnight joins Rope Drop On Deck to share their top five favorite onboard activities — from high-energy fun to can't-miss experiences that make cruising unforgettable for younger sailors (and their families). Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle welcome Junior Reporter Sam McKnight for a fun and insightful episode all about cruising from a kid's perspective. Sam breaks down their five favorite onboard activities , explaining what makes each one special and why they're must-dos on any cruise vacation. If you're cruising with kids — or just want to know which onboard experiences keep younger cruisers coming back for more — this episode delivers firsthand insight you won't get anywhere else. Word of the day thanks to Back To The Mouse . 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
35 min
RDOD — Cruise Gift Giving & How to Gift a Cruise as a Surprise Thinking about giving the ultimate gift this year? From unforgettable surprise reveals to stocking stuffers every cruiser will actually use, we're breaking down the best ways to gift a cruise—and the must-have items to wrap up (or secretly pack!) for the big reveal. Whether you're surprising a spouse, a kid, or an entire family, this episode will help you make the moment magical. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle dive into the art of cruise gift-giving! It's that time of year, and if you're dreaming of surprising someone with a sailing—whether for Christmas, a birthday, an anniversary, or "just because"—we've got your blueprint. We walk through the best ways to surprise someone with a cruise, how to plan around logistics, and the top stocking stuffers and under-the-tree gifts that every cruiser will appreciate. From passport holders to packing cubes to cruise-ready outfits, we're covering all the fun, practical, and unexpected items to elevate your next adventure at sea. Word of the day thanks to Back To The Mouse . - Cargo 🎄 Great Cruise Gift Ideas & Stocking Stuffers Practical Gifts Passport holder Luggage & luggage tags Pop-up hamper Packing cubes Luggage tracking devices Chargers & Europe adapters Noise-canceling headphones Tide-to-Go pens Comfort + Wellness Sea bands Pepto / travel meds Flip flops Sunglasses Fun & Cruise-Themed Gifts Cruise magnets Waterproof phone case Binoculars Lanyards Tommy Bahama or Roosevelt shirts/outfits Perfect for Christmas morning, surprise trips, or any cruise countdown celebration! 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
59 min
We just stepped off the Disney Destiny… and we're ready to tell you everything. From the moment we boarded the maiden voyage to the final walk off in Fort Lauderdale, we're breaking down our full trip report of Disney Cruise Line's newest ship. If you want real experiences, dining reactions, show reviews, and honest impressions—this is the Destiny episode you've been waiting for. This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Michelle and Doug deliver their complete Disney Destiny maiden voyage trip report ! After last week's teaser, we're diving deep into what it's actually like to sail the newest DCL ship. We cover first moments onboard, stateroom impressions, dining, entertainment, characters, lounges, Castaway Cay, and all the surprises the Destiny has to offer. If you're planning a cruise on the Disney Destiny—or just want to hear what worked, what didn't, and what stood out from the Wish/Treasure class—this episode is packed with details you won't want to miss. Word of the day thanks to Back To The Mouse . 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
16 min
⭐️ We're recording from onboard the brand-new Disney Destiny! Michelle and Doug give you their first reactions from the maiden voyage — and tease everything coming in next week's full deep-dive episode. Recording From the Disney Destiny! First Impressions Teaser Episode This week's Rope Drop On Deck is a special mini-episode recorded directly from the Disney Destiny ! Michelle and Doug share raw, fresh first impressions of Disney Cruise Line's newest ship as they sail the maiden voyage. From the Grand Hall to the energy onboard to what instantly surprised us — this quick episode sets the stage for next week's full breakdown , where we'll cover dining, shows, lounges, characters, staterooms, and everything you really want to know about the Destiny. If you're curious what the ship feels like, what's different from the Wish and Treasure, and what you can look forward to as we review the entire itinerary, this teaser will get you excited for what's coming! 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
56 min
⭐️ What happens when Michelle and Emily get a sneak-peek sailing on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship? We're breaking down everything — the Grand Hall, the lounges, the shows, the food, and the surprises — from the exclusive Disney Destiny preview cruise. The Disney Destiny Is Here! Full Preview Cruise Breakdown This week on Rope Drop On Deck , Doug and Michelle welcome back friend of the show Emily of Magical Mouse Travel to talk all about the Disney Destiny Preview Cruise . Fresh off the ship, Michelle and Emily share first impressions, insider details, and what makes this Wish-Class ship stand apart from the Wish and Treasure. We cover everything from the redesigned Grand Hall, themed lounges, dining highlights, and the newest entertainment onboard — plus the jaw-dropping Tower Suite and Hero Suite! If you're planning a future sailing on the Disney Destiny or just love hearing about new Disney Cruise Line ships, this episode is packed with first-hand insight you won't get anywhere else. Stick around to the end for a rapid-fire virtual muster drill and learn Emily's cruise favorites! In This Episode News & Updates Disney Cruise Line to have 4 ships sailing in 10 days Princess adds Celebration Key to select itineraries Big NYC terminal overhaul announced The Price Is Right to film aboard Royal Caribbean's Utopia Icon of the Seas heading to Texas in 2027 Disney Destiny Preview Cruise Why Michelle & Emily were invited onboard First impressions entering the Grand Hall "Is it just the Wish or Treasure with new lipstick?" 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at Michelle@TouringandCruises.com 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊