Explore every episode of the podcast Luxury Cruising Podcast: Come Explore the World In Style
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube live Newest River Cruise lines | Ep91 | 25 Oct 2026 | 00:47:38 | |
Are river cruises entering a golden age, or is the industry heading toward overcrowded waterways? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Sydney to discuss the growing river cruise market, emerging cruise lines, luxury experiences, and what travellers should consider when choosing their next river cruise. From Explora Journeys and Celebrity River Cruises to Viva, Trafalgar, Lindblad, and Century Cruises, Sydney explains how new brands are developing distinct experiences. They also discuss family-friendly amenities, culinary adventures, shorter itineraries, and expedition-style excursions, alongside concerns about overcrowding, overtourism, sustainability, and the long-term viability of new cruise operators. Discover the newest river cruise brands, their unique selling points, and how growing competition may reshape pricing, itineraries, and the river cruising experience. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Sydney Schellinger is a lifelong cruiser who fell in love with river cruising in 2021 and set a goal to sail as many as possible. She created the River Cruising Masterclass Podcast to answer the many questions travelers have about the wide range of river cruise lines and experiences. As a travel advisor, she helps clients match their style, budget, and travel companions to the perfect river (or ocean) itinerary. Connect with the Guest: Website: The Poodle Booked It Social media: @Traveladvisorsydney Email: sydney@thepoodlebookedit.com
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Leaf Peeping Cruises | Ep90 | 18 Oct 2026 | 00:25:00 | |
Have you ever considered taking a cruise just to experience the breathtaking colours of autumn? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis explores leaf-peeping cruises, seasonal sailings that showcase the gold, red, and burgundy foliage of Canada, New England, and Europe. Discover why these limited-season itineraries offer a memorable way to experience nature. From avoiding crowded hotels and complicated road-trip logistics to enjoying balcony views, regional cuisine, and expert-led excursions, luxury cruises offer a relaxed way to explore autumn destinations. Krystal highlights standout cruise lines, including Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, and American Cruise Lines, while exploring European river cruises along the Danube, Rhine, Rhône, and Seine. Discover the best features of fall foliage cruises, who they suit, which cruise lines offer them, and how North American sailings compare with European river cruises. Episode Highlights:
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Spectrum of the Seas Sky Class | Ep89 | 11 Oct 2026 | 00:46:10 | |
What happens when a familiar Royal Caribbean experience meets a completely different culture? Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Leigh Stevens to share her family's eight-day Japan cruise aboard Spectrum of the Seas, departing from Shanghai. Leigh explains how the ship's Chinese cultural influences, Asian-inspired cuisine, and Mandarin-language entertainment created a distinctive cruising experience for her family. Leigh also discusses her spacious Sky Class suite, VIP boarding, exclusive suite areas, and favorite dining experiences, including sushi, hibachi, and hot pot. She shares why private shore excursions made exploring Japan more enjoyable and explains how reduced crowds, personal space, and attentive service shaped her definition of luxury. Listeners will discover Spectrum's unique cultural atmosphere, Sky Class benefits, private-tour advantages, and practical considerations for cruising from China to Japan. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Leigh Stevens is an interventional pain physician and anesthesiologist based in North Carolina. She enjoys traveling with her husband and two children, exploring different destinations through cruising. Her experience aboard Spectrum of the Seas offered a distinctive opportunity to revisit China with her adopted son while discovering parts of Japan as a family. About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Windstar Windsurf | Ep88 | 04 Oct 2026 | 00:39:52 | |
What if the best luxury cruise experience isn't about the biggest ship, but about going smaller? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes travel advisor Sydney of The Poodle Booked It to discuss her Windstar Windsurf experience. Sydney explains where Windstar fits within the premium and luxury cruise market, highlighting its intimate ships, relaxed yacht-club atmosphere, unique destinations, and signature marina experience. Sydney takes listeners inside the Windsurf, covering its recently renovated public spaces, accommodations, dining, entertainment, open bridge, and high-touch service. She also shares what she loved, and didn't love, about the excursions, explaining why Windstar may be ideal for travelers who prioritize destinations and small-ship experiences over onboard entertainment and amenities. Listeners will discover what makes Windstar unique, who it suits best, and how its relaxed luxury compares with larger cruise lines. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Sydney Schellinger is a lifelong cruiser who fell in love with river cruising in 2021 and set a goal to sail as many as possible. She created the River Cruising Masterclass Podcast to answer the many questions travelers have about the wide range of river cruise lines and experiences. As a travel advisor, she helps clients match their style, budget, and travel companions to the perfect river (or ocean) itinerary. How to Connect with the Guest: Website: The Poodle Booked It Social media: @Traveladvisorsydney Email: sydney@thepoodlebookedit.com Podcast: River Cruising Masterclass podcast
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| SilverSea Silver Shadow with Bradley | Ep87 | 27 Sep 2026 | 00:45:53 | |
What happens when a lifelong cruiser finally sails Silversea; the ultra-luxury line that once felt out of reach? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with returning guest Bradley from Explore With Bradley to unpack his voyage on the classic Silver Shadow. Bradley explains how the itinerary, timing, and price point aligned with a personal goal of ticking off a cruise his grandmother had always admired. He describes the ship’s spotless, old-school elegance, the surprisingly welcoming atmosphere for young families and babies, and the outstanding butler service that included daily caviar, personalized bath setups, and a deeply moving custom memory booklet. Listeners will also hear candid thoughts on the food; excellent quality but more limited variety on the smaller ship, surprisingly strong entertainment, and a few honest observations about balcony furniture and Wi-Fi upgrades. Whether you’re considering Silversea for the first time or already a fan of ultra-luxury, this episode offers an authentic, detailed look at life aboard one of the line’s classic ships. Episode Highlights:
Episode Mentioned: Episode 70: Azamara Live With Bradley About the Guest: Bradley, is a passionate cruise enthusiast known for sharing honest and detailed cruise reviews across YouTube and social media. From mainstream lines to ultra-luxury voyages, Bradley documents his experiences with a focus on itineraries, onboard experiences, luxury travel, and nostalgic cruising traditions. YouTube: Explore With Bradley About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Sailing in Luxury Matters | Ep86 | 20 Sep 2026 | 00:25:46 | |
Is a cruise suite really worth it? What makes a suite worth the extra cost? In this solo episode, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis looks beyond the size of the room to explore how suite cruising can change the entire cruise experience. From larger bathrooms, balconies, and living spaces to natural light and separate bedrooms, she explains why the physical space can matter even for travelers who spend most of their time outside their cabin. Dr. Sodaitis also explores the broader benefits of suite and luxury cruising, including private lounges and restaurants, dedicated sundecks, priority boarding and debarkation, concierge and butler services, and personalized, anticipatory service. She compares suite experiences across Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, MSC Yacht Club, and luxury lines such as Regent, Silversea, Seabourn, and Oceania, while offering perspective on when the additional cost may, and may not be worthwhile. Episode Highlights
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Explora Journeys Explora III | Ep85 | 13 Sep 2026 | 00:30:40 | |
What makes Explora III different from other luxury cruise ships? In this conversation, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Matthew Jones from The Cruise Globe and The Cruise Maps to share his experience aboard Explora III. Matt explores the ship’s spacious design, modern luxury atmosphere, suite amenities, personalized service, included gratuities, diverse dining options, entertainment, and European-focused itinerary. Matt also explains why Explora III feels more like a luxury hotel at sea than a traditional cruise ship. He highlights thoughtful touches such as stocked minibars, binoculars, attentive hosts, complimentary in-cabin dining, and the new paddle court, while discussing why scenic destinations may be especially well suited to the brand. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Matt is the CEO and co-founder of The Cruise Globe and The Cruise Maps. The Cruise Maps creates personalized prints showing the exact route of a cruise, while The Cruise Globe allows travelers to track their complete cruise history using actual ship data. The Cruise Globe has also expanded into an independent cruise agency. Websites:TheCruiseMaps.com/Luxury https://www.youtube.com/@TheCruiseGlobe About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| MSC World America Yacht Club | Ep84 | 06 Sep 2026 | 00:34:57 | |
What makes MSC Yacht Club worth the upgrade, and could it deliver one of the best luxury cruise experiences at sea? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Roy from Forced Family Fun to explore MSC Yacht Club. Roy shares his experiences aboard multiple MSC ships, including World America, and explains the differences between Yacht Club configurations, ship classes, accommodations, amenities, dining, service, and overall value for cruisers. Roy also discusses the personalized service that defines luxury for him, including 24-hour butler service, priority access, unlimited drinks, included Wi-Fi, exclusive dining, and peaceful private spaces. He shares tips for enjoying the larger ship when ports are less crowded, explains MSC loyalty benefits, and reveals his future cruise bucket-list destinations. Listeners will learn what makes MSC Yacht Club distinctive, how its benefits compare, and why personalization, service, and value matter. Episode Highlights
About the Guest: Roy is a passionate cruiser and the creator behind Forced Family Fun. Along with his wife and their teenage daughter, he has traveled extensively in MSC Yacht Club and has developed a particular appreciation for the Yacht Club experience. Through Forced Family Fun, Roy shares cruise experiences, ship tours, and travel content, with a focus on finding fun and unique ways to showcase cruising. When not cruising Roy and his family enjoy weekend road trips, exploring Florida and the South, eating great food, and spending time outdoors. Connect with Forced Family Fun:
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Viking Cora | Ep83 | 30 Aug 2026 | 00:25:20 | |
What is it really like to take your first river cruise with Viking? In this conversation, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Kat, a passionate cruiser and host of Your Travel Bestie, to talk about her voyage on the Viking Kara along the Rhine from Amsterdam to Basel, Switzerland. Kat describes the welcoming atmosphere of a smaller ship (just 174 passengers), the crew’s impressive ability to learn guests’ names almost immediately, and the convenience of docking right in the heart of towns. She discusses the Juliet balcony stateroom she preferred, the high-quality Viking toiletries, and the excellent regional food that changed daily to match the destinations. Listeners will also hear about the realities of side-by-side docking, large included excursions, a memorable scenic cruise past dozens of castles, the surprisingly tight fit through the river locks, and why Kat believes true luxury is defined by how you are treated. She wraps up by sharing her dream of an Australia and New Zealand cruise and her upcoming Virgin Voyages itineraries. Episode Highlights:
About The Guest Kat is a passionate cruiser who calls herself your travel bestie. Host of the Your Travel Bestie podcast, she covers all types of travel and often features guests whose businesses connect to exploration and healing. A first-time river cruiser, she recently sailed Viking’s Rhine itinerary and has upcoming Virgin Voyages trips planned. Podcast: Your Travel Bestie Kat Podcast. About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Viking Danube | Ep82 | 23 Aug 2026 | 00:33:40 | |
What happens when a lifelong non-cruiser finally books a Viking River Cruise? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis talks with Andrea Moore, an OBGYN and mom of two who had never set foot on a big cruise ship but was captivated by Viking’s longships on PBS. She and her husband chose the Danube Romantic itinerary aboard the Viking Jarl and found it lived up to the hype. Andrea walks listeners through the clean Scandinavian design, the surprisingly spacious balcony cabin, the popular Aquavit Terrace dining, excellent food with regional menus, thoughtful service, and the joy of e-bike tours through the Wachau Valley. She also candidly discusses the impact of low water levels that forced a change in itinerary, the thrill of watching the ship rise through locks at night, and practical tips for first-timers. Whether you’re considering your first river cruise or already hooked, this honest firsthand account offers valuable perspective. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Andrea Moore is an OBGYN, mom of two, and first-time cruiser who had long admired Viking’s river longships on PBS. She recently completed her first river cruise, which is the Danube Romantic itinerary aboard the Viking Jarl, and is now a convert to the river cruising experience. About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Riverside Luxury Cruises | Ep81 | 16 Aug 2026 | 00:33:36 | |
What if your next vacation felt like a land tour with a luxury hotel that moves with you, complete with butler service, heated floors, and no need to unpack more than once? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with Desirey Virgin and Samantha Bailey to demystify one of Europe’s premier, and still relatively new river cruise lines. Desirey shares how Riverside defines comfortable luxury through seamless service, top-tier food and wine, and a crew that anticipates every need, while Samantha explains why she chose the line for her own upcoming family trip. They cover the immersive nature of river cruising versus ocean sailing, the current three-ship fleet with expansion planned for 2028, standout features like connecting cabins and no solo supplements, modern décor details, flexible itineraries from three to twenty-three nights, the exceptional à-la-minute cuisine, unique small-group excursions, and flexible booking packages. Whether you’re river-curious or already a fan of small-ship luxury, this episode is packed with practical advice and insider perspective on Riverside. Episode Highlights:
About the Guests: Desirey Virgin is Director of Sales for the Southeast region at Riverside Luxury Cruises. With a background in luxury hospitality (including brands such as The Ritz-Carlton), she helps advisors and travelers discover Riverside’s all-suite, butler-served river cruises on Europe’s most iconic waterways. Samantha Bailey is the founder of Endeavor Travel Group. A repeat guest on the podcast, she specializes in customized journeys by land & sea and has chosen Riverside Luxury Cruises for her own upcoming family vacation. Connect with the Guests: Desirey / Riverside Luxury Cruises Website: riverside-cruises.com Sales inquiries (USA & Canada): us.sales@riverside-cruises.com Samantha Bailey / Endeavor Travel Group Website: endeavortravelgroup.com Email: Samantha@endeavortravelgroup.com About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| River Cruising Masterclass | Ep80 | 09 Aug 2026 | 00:38:33 | |
What if your next vacation felt like a land tour with a hotel that moves with you? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Sydney Schellinger to demystify river cruising. Sydney shares how she fell in love with river cruising in 2021 and has made it her mission to experience as many as possible. Together they discussed:
Whether you’re river-curious or already hooked, this episode is packed with practical advice and insider perspective. Episode Highlights:
Episode Mentioned: Episode 79: River Cruising with Kids on AmaWaterways' AmaLyra About the Guest: Sydney Schellinger is a lifelong cruiser who fell in love with river cruising in 2021 and set a goal to sail as many as possible. She created the River Cruising Masterclass Podcast to answer the many questions travelers have about the wide range of river cruise lines and experiences. As a travel advisor, she helps clients match their style, budget, and travel companions to the perfect river (or ocean) itinerary. How to Connect with the Guest: Website: The Poodle Booked It Social media: @Traveladvisorsydney Email: sydney@thepoodlebookedit.com YouTube: https://music.youtube.com/@thepoodlebookedit About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| River Cruising with Kids on AmaWaterways' AmaLyra |Ep79 | 02 Aug 2026 | 00:35:04 | |
What if the best family vacation wasn't packed with water slides and endless entertainment, but with meaningful conversations, cultural immersion, and unforgettable shared experiences? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes travel advisor Nicole Damiano, who shares her family's unique decision to trade traditional vacations for full-time travel around the world. Nicole recounts her memorable sailing aboard AmaWaterways' AmaLyra along France's Seine River, where she and her 13-year-old son explored Normandy, Monet's Garden, medieval castles, and French villages while enjoying the intimate atmosphere that makes river cruising so distinctive. Nicole explains why river cruising offered something ocean cruises couldn't: slower travel, authentic cultural experiences, and quality family time without constant distractions. She also discusses AmaWaterways' family-friendly atmosphere, exceptional service, world-class cuisine, included excursions, and how thoughtful travel can nurture children's passions and curiosity. Whether you're considering your first river cruise or wondering if river cruising is suitable for families, this conversation offers practical insights and heartfelt inspiration. Episode Highlights:
Episode Mentioned: Episode 77: AmaWaterways Soulful Experience About the Guest: Nicole Damiano is a travel advisor and founder of Adventures We Seek, where she specializes in creating meaningful travel experiences for families and adventurous travelers. After selling everything to travel the world with her family, Nicole now helps others design immersive journeys that combine education, culture, and unforgettable experiences. She believes travel should inspire curiosity, deepen family connections, and create lifelong memories. Website: https://adventuresweseek.com E-mail: Nicole@fgluxurytravel.com FB: https://www.facebook.com/adventuresweseek About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| MSC Euriba Yacht Club |Ep78 | 26 Jul 2026 | 00:45:28 | |
Is booking a luxury cruise suite really worth the extra cost, or is it simply a bigger cabin? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with experienced cruiser Genna to explore her unforgettable voyage aboard the MSC Euribia in one of the ship's most exclusive accommodations: the two-story Yacht Club Duplex Suite. Sailing through the breathtaking fjords and ports of Northern Europe, Genna shares why this suite, with its private balcony Jacuzzi, two full bathrooms, panoramic forward-facing windows, and dedicated butler service, completely elevated the cruising experience. The conversation also dives into the unique advantages of MSC's Yacht Club experience, including private restaurants, dedicated lounges, personalized concierge and butler services, premium excursions, priority embarkation, drink packages, and exclusive dining options. Genna compares MSC's luxury offering with Royal Caribbean's suite program, highlighting where each cruise line excels depending on a traveler's priorities and budget. Listeners will also hear practical advice for planning European shore excursions, balancing independent exploration with cruise-sponsored experiences, maximizing cruise loyalty programs, and deciding when paying for a suite truly delivers exceptional value. Whether you're planning your first luxury cruise or searching for your next unforgettable voyage, this episode offers practical guidance for creating a premium cruising experience without unnecessary expense. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Genna is a seasoned cruise enthusiast who enjoys independently researching, planning, and booking cruises around the world. Having sailed on numerous cruise lines, she specializes in maximizing value through thoughtful planning, loyalty benefits, and premium accommodations. In this episode, she shares her firsthand experience sailing aboard the MSC Euribia Yacht Club Duplex Suite, offering practical advice on booking luxury suites, comparing cruise lines, planning European itineraries, and making informed decisions that elevate every voyage. About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| AmaWaterways Soulful Experience | Ep77 | 19 Jul 2026 | 00:33:56 | |
What if your next river cruise could offer not only breathtaking scenery and luxury accommodations, but also a deeper connection to history and culture? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes emergency physician, travel advisor, and global traveler Dr. Yvette McQueen to discuss AmaWaterways' Soulful Experiences, specialized river cruises designed to highlight the rich history and influence of the African diaspora around the world. Dr. McQueen shares how these unique itineraries grew from guest feedback and now include immersive cultural experiences throughout France, Portugal, Egypt, Colombia, Vietnam, Cambodia, South Africa, and beyond. Listeners will discover how expert lecturers, local historians, musicians, chefs, and cultural performers transform each voyage into an unforgettable educational journey. The conversation also explores the growing popularity of specialty river cruises, from golf and kosher sailings to crafting, beer, and wine-themed itineraries. Dr. McQueen explains why river cruising offers one of the most intimate and authentic ways to experience a destination while discussing what true luxury means beyond five-star hotels and lavish amenities. Whether you're considering your first river cruise or searching for a unique cultural travel experience, this episode offers valuable insights into how specialty cruising can create memories that last a lifetime. Episode Highlights:
Episode 76: Celebrity Flora to the Galapagos About the Guest: Dr. Yvette McQueen is an emergency physician, global traveler, author, speaker, and founder of MedQueen Tours. With more than 25 years in medicine, she now curates culturally immersive luxury travel experiences for professionals seeking meaningful adventures around the world. Combining her passion for wellness, education, and exploration, Dr. McQueen helps travelers experience destinations through local culture while promoting healthy and safe travel. Website: http://www.medqueentours.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedQueenToursandTravel Instagrams: https://www.instagram.com/drtravel911 and https://www.instagram.com/medqueen_tours LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medqueen-tours-travel/ About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Celebrity Flora to the Galapagos |Ep76 | 12 Jul 2026 | 00:46:02 | |
What does a true luxury expedition cruise look like? In this episode, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with Joelle and Jeff to dive deep into their recent sailing on the Celebrity Flora to the Galápagos Islands. With only 100 passengers and an impressive crew-to-guest ratio, the Flora delivers a unique blend of expedition adventure and high-end comforts. The duo shares why they selected Celebrity Flora over smaller ships or Silversea, the benefits of traveling with a large group, penthouse suite perks, all-inclusive experiences, exceptional personalized service, and the abundant wildlife they encountered. They also offer candid advice on pre-cruise planning, flights, and what to expect from this once-in-a-lifetime trip. Episode Highlights:
Joelle and Jeff are passionate travelers and retired professionals who spend their time exploring the world. Jeff founded Purple Lemming Travel seven years ago after a corporate career, building on 20 years of organizing group trips for friends. Together, they specialize in curating memorable luxury adventures, from milestone celebrations to bucket-list expeditions like their recent Galápagos sailing aboard Celebrity Flora. Listen to previous episodes our guests were on: Ep 19 Amawaterways European Cruises Ep 43: Celebrity Apex Iconic Suite: https://luxury-cruising-podcast-come-explore-the-world-in-style.simplecast.com/episodes/celebrity-apexs-iconic-suite-cruise-to-iceland-ireland-ep-43 EP 48 Exploring Antarctica on Scenic: Email: purplelemmingtravel@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purplelemmingtravel Website: Purplelemmingtravel.com About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Luxury Loyalty Perks | Ep75 | 05 Jul 2026 | 00:19:23 | |
What if your next cruise could feel a little more luxurious just because of your loyalty status? In this solo episode, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis explores the world of cruise loyalty programs. She compares standout perks on lines like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival, Norwegian, Princess, Disney, Holland America, and MSC, while sharing real-world tips on “points hacking,” status matching, and deciding when it’s worth sticking with one brand. Dr. Sodaitis explains how higher tiers unlock tangible benefits like dedicated lounges, laundry services, priority services, specialty dining access, and more. She also discusses which programs reward nights sailed, onboard spending, or even status from other travel programs, helping listeners decide which loyalty path best fits their cruising style. As you reflect on those wonderful voyages, why not turn your memories into lasting treasures? Preserve your favorite cruise experiences with The Cruise Maps. From premium cruise cards featuring your ship's itinerary to beautifully crafted display books, maps, and personalized artwork, they offer unique keepsakes that celebrate every voyage. Whether it's your first sailing or your fiftieth, there's something special waiting for you. Visit thecruisemaps.com/luxury and use the exclusive link to receive 10% off your entire order today.
Episode Highlights:
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| World Cruises 2027 |EP74 | 28 Jun 2026 | 00:25:00 | |
What would your dream world cruise look like? In this solo episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis takes listeners on a tour of some of the most anticipated luxury world cruises departing in late 2026 and 2027. For travelers who have ever imagined sailing around the globe, crossing oceans, exploring remote destinations, and immersing themselves in diverse cultures, this episode offers an inspiring comparison of itineraries from some of the industry's leading luxury cruise lines. Dr. Sodaitis highlights Regent Seven Seas' Grand Circumnavigation aboard Seven Seas Splendor, Viking's three distinct world cruise options, Silversea's expedition-inspired Three Oceans Cruise, Seabourn's Antarctica-focused Grand Voyage, and Oceania's collection of extended global journeys. Along the way, she examines itinerary styles, ship experiences, pricing, overnight stays, cultural programming, and the types of travelers best suited for each voyage. Whether you dream of Antarctica, Polynesia, Southeast Asia, the Mediterranean, or simply spending months at sea in luxurious comfort, this episode provides a thoughtful guide to choosing a world cruise that aligns with your travel style, pace, and bucket-list aspirations. Episode Highlights:
Episode Mentioned: Episode 36: World Cruises: The Ultimate Bucket List Voyage About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Seabourn Ovation with Sherri | Ep73 | 21 Jun 2026 | 00:27:45 | |
What makes travelers return to the same luxury cruise line after their very first cruise experience? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes back Sherri, a retired attorney and avid traveler, to share her second voyage with Seabourn aboard Seabourn Ovation. After discovering luxury cruising for the first time during a Mediterranean sailing, Sherri and her husband chose Seabourn again for a Southern Caribbean adventure. Sherri discusses the seamless familiarity of sailing on Seabourn's sister ships, the spacious veranda suites, personalized service from attentive staff, and the truly all-inclusive experience that sets Seabourn apart. She also shares highlights from visiting St. Martin, St. Kitts, Grenada, Martinique, Barbados, and the British Virgin Islands, including Seabourn's signature "Caviar in the Surf" experience. The conversation explores dining, wellness amenities, shore excursions, entertainment, and the moments that transformed a luxury vacation into a memorable and meaningful travel experience. For travelers considering Seabourn or luxury cruising in general, this episode offers an honest look at what keeps guests coming back. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Sherri is a retired attorney, passionate traveler, runner, and cyclist who enjoys exploring the world through both active land adventures and luxury cruising experiences. After initially believing she wasn't a cruise traveler, her first Seabourn voyage completely changed her perspective. She now seeks travel experiences that combine exceptional service, meaningful cultural exploration, and opportunities to stay active while discovering new destinations. About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The Haven on Norwegian Luna | Ep72 | 14 Jun 2026 | 00:39:28 | |
What does luxury cruising look like when you're traveling with kids? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Crystal Sodaitis welcomes back Ben and Rebekah Guillow to share their experience aboard the brand-new Norwegian Luna, the latest Prima Plus Class ship from Norwegian Cruise Line. The couple dives into what makes Norwegian's Haven suite complex one of the most compelling luxury cruise products at sea; from dedicated concierge service, private elevators, exclusive dining, and adults-only spaces to priority embarkation and seamless vacation experiences. They also compare Luna to sister ship Norwegian Aqua, discuss family-friendly amenities, entertainment, dining, and their favorite shore excursions throughout the Caribbean. Whether you're considering The Haven for the first time or looking to compare luxury cruise suite experiences across cruise lines, this episode offers an honest, detailed look at what makes Norwegian Luna stand out. Episode Highlights:
About The Guests: Ben and Rebekah Guillow are travel advisors and content creators behind LUX Travel for Families, where they share family luxury travel experiences, cruise reviews, destination guides, and travel planning insights across YouTube and Instagram. Memorable Quote "Luxury isn't just about the suite, it's about removing friction and having your needs anticipated before you even ask." Instagram: LUX Travel for Families YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@luxtravelforfamilies About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Creating Luxury Experiences with Kevin Kennon | Ep71 | 07 Jun 2026 | 00:24:11 | |
What does luxury really mean in an era where travelers increasingly value experiences over possessions? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Kevin Kennon for a thought-provoking conversation about the evolving definition of luxury travel. Kevin discusses how modern luxury is shifting away from excess and toward personalized service, authentic experiences, meaningful human connections, and immersive environments that help travelers reconnect with themselves and the world around them. The discussion explores Kevin’s latest venture, Beyond Zero, a luxury wilderness hospitality concept designed to blend ultra-high-end accommodations with conservation, sustainability, and transformative guest experiences. Inspired by the intimacy and service model of luxury yachts, Kevin explains how his team is developing private wilderness retreats that prioritize both privacy and social connection while preserving the natural landscapes surrounding them. Listeners will hear insights into the psychology of luxury, how architecture influences human experience, why personalized service remains the foundation of hospitality, and how future luxury travel experiences may combine cutting-edge technology with deeply human interactions. Whether you’re passionate about luxury cruising, hospitality design, eco-tourism, or the future of travel, this episode offers a fascinating look inside the minds shaping tomorrow’s luxury experiences. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Kevin Kennon is an architect, developer, and hospitality innovator with decades of experience leading major architectural projects around the world. As the founder of Beyond Zero Development Company, he is focused on creating a new category of luxury wilderness hospitality that combines conservation, sustainability, advanced technology, and deeply personalized guest experiences. Kevin’s work spans hospitality, retail, mixed-use developments, museums, skyscrapers, and innovative architectural projects designed to improve the way people experience the built environment. Media Profile: https://www.guestsonair.com/profile/kevin-kennon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinkennonarchitect/ Twitter: https://x.com/@PKevinKennon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pkk2418/?hl=en Website: https://www.kdcaia.com/ About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Azamara Live with Bradley | Ep70 | 31 May 2026 | 00:44:36 | |
What makes Azamara stand out in the crowded luxury cruise market, and is the experience truly worth the price? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with returning guest Bradley to unpack his latest voyage aboard Azamara Quest. Sailing through France and Spain on a port-intensive itinerary with no sea days, Bradley shares why Azamara’s immersive approach to cruising creates a completely different experience from larger mainstream ships. The conversation explores Azamara’s boutique atmosphere, elegant classic ship design, immersive regional entertainment, and personalized service that made guests feel instantly at home. Bradley also offers an honest perspective on both the strengths and weaknesses of the experience, including the surprisingly high excursion costs, upsells for premium amenities, and specialty dining that didn’t always feel as exclusive as expected. Listeners will hear about Azamara’s famous White Night celebration in Marseille, intimate ports inaccessible to larger ships, nostalgic cruising touches, balcony dining, luxury-yet-relaxed ambiance, and why the line has built such a loyal repeat customer base. If you’re curious about immersive small-ship cruising and whether Azamara delivers true boutique luxury, this episode offers a refreshingly candid insider perspective. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Bradley, is a passionate cruise enthusiast known for sharing honest and detailed cruise reviews across YouTube and social media. From mainstream lines to ultra-luxury voyages, Bradley documents his experiences with a focus on itineraries, onboard experiences, luxury travel, and nostalgic cruising traditions. YouTube: Explore With Bradley About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Four Season Yacht with TravelBugDiva | Ep 69 | 24 May 2026 | 00:46:13 | |
What does a $350,000 cruise suite look like, and can Four Seasons Yachts truly redefine luxury at sea? In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes luxury traveler and content creator Joi, to discuss her firsthand experience aboard the highly anticipated inaugural sailing of Four Seasons Yachts. Joi shares every detail of the ultra-luxury experience, from personalized embarkation and 710-square-foot suites to heated bathroom floors, translucent TVs, and staff who knew every guest by name. The conversation explores how Four Seasons is bringing its iconic hotel service standards onto the water while creating something entirely different from traditional cruising. The episode also dives into the realities of ultra-luxury cruising, including pricing, what is and isn’t included, entertainment expectations, and why returning to mainstream cruising afterward may feel impossible. Listeners will hear about helicopter excursions to Michelin-star restaurants in Provence, private Mercedes transfers, curated culinary experiences, luxury spa amenities, and the surprisingly intimate atmosphere created by hosting only 137 guests onboard. If you’ve ever wondered what the future of luxury cruising looks like, this episode offers an exclusive inside look at one of the most talked-about yacht launches in the world. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Joi G, also known as Travel Bug Diva, is a luxury travel content creator known for sharing high-end travel experiences across Instagram and TikTok. Having visited over 50 countries and more than 100 cities, she specializes in showcasing luxury hotels, cruises, fine dining, and unique travel experiences around the world. Instagram: @TravelBugDiva TikTok: @TravelBugDiva About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| What's new in Luxury 2026 | Ep 68 | 17 May 2026 | 00:31:06 | |
What will luxury cruising look like in 2026, and which new ships are truly redefining the experience? Dr. Krystal Sodaitis returns with her annual deep dive into the most exciting new cruise ships launching in 2026, focusing not just on flashy attractions, but on how cruise lines are redefining luxury itself. This episode explores the growing divide between mainstream cruising and ultra-luxury experiences, as major brands continue expanding their “ship-within-a-ship” concepts while luxury lines lean into wellness, sustainability, personalization, and residential-style elegance. Dr. Krystal also explores the next evolution of true luxury cruising with Regent Seven Seas Prestige, Explora III, Windstar Explorer, and Viking’s environmentally focused Libra and Mira ships. From hydrogen-ready propulsion systems and outdoor wellness sanctuaries to private marinas and immersive dining experiences, this episode reveals why 2026 may become one of the most transformative years in luxury cruising history. Listeners will get an inside look at Norwegian Luna’s enhanced Haven experience, Royal Caribbean’s upgraded Icon-class luxury suites aboard Legend of the Seas, MSC World Asia’s expanded Yacht Club, and Disney Adventure’s premium concierge offerings designed for multigenerational families. Episode Highlights:
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Transatlantic on Explora Journeys Explora 1 | Ep 67 | 10 May 2026 | 00:32:29 | |
What’s it really like to cross the Atlantic on a luxury cruise as a solo traveler? Dr. Krystal welcomes Meredith, a seasoned solo cruiser from Philadelphia, to share her experience sailing across the Atlantic aboard Explora Journeys. Despite having completed nearly 40 cruises, Meredith explains why this 13-night journey from San Juan to Barcelona completely transformed her understanding of luxury cruising. The conversation explores how Explora Journeys caters exceptionally well to solo travelers, including rare 0% solo supplement pricing, spacious suite accommodations, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere that made meeting fellow cruisers easy. They also discuss the practical side of long luxury sailings, including high-speed Wi-Fi that allowed Meredith to work remotely during six consecutive sea days in the Atlantic. The episode dives deep into Explora’s dining experience, entertainment, inclusions, service standards, and how the cruise line compares to other premium and luxury brands Meredith has sailed. Listeners will also hear about unique transatlantic ports including the Canary Islands and Tangier, Morocco, plus insider tips on status matching, onboard scheduling differences on European cruise lines, and what future luxury travelers should know before booking an Explora sailing. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Meredith, a Western North Carolina native, now resides in Philadelphia with her two cats. When she’s not working at her professional corporate job, she is vlogging and documenting her solo cruise adventures on her YouTube channel and sharing across social media: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook. She cruises approximately 6-8 times per year with a goal of traveling to every port in the world. She has been on more than 35 cruises, visited all 7 continents and over 60 countries.
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The luxury of Transatlantic Cruising | Ep 66 | 03 May 2026 | 00:38:17 | |
What if the ultimate luxury in travel isn’t space, but time? Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with travel advisor and experienced cruiser Cindy Pirtle to explore the appeal of transatlantic cruising. With nearly 100 cruises completed, Cindy shares insights from her recent 40-day journey, including two transatlantic crossings and time exploring Europe. They discuss how these longer voyages often offer better value, with lower per-day costs, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed pace than traditional cruises. With multiple sea days, travelers can enjoy enrichment activities, establish routines, and experience true rest away from busy itineraries. The episode highlights how transatlantic cruises encourage deeper social connections and create opportunities to meet like-minded travelers. Ultimately, the conversation reframes luxury as time, time to slow down, reflect, and pursue meaningful experiences, making transatlantic cruising a powerful and fulfilling way to travel. Listeners will walk away with a new perspective on luxury, not as excess, but as the freedom to slow down, explore deeply, and reconnect with what matters most. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Cindy Pirtle currently serves as a Travel Advisor with Expedia Cruises in Spring, Texas; specializing in ocean and river cruises. She has recently completed her 95th cruise and 31st country. Cruising affords her the ability to see the world one port at a time and in doing so allows her the opportunity to determine which countries call her to explore for extended land tours. This extended personal travel allows her firsthand knowledge in assisting her travel clients with fantastic itineraries. Prior to her life planning travel for others, she retired from two separate exciting careers. For many years, she practiced law focusing on litigation in the areas of oil and gas, pipeline regulation, constitutional law, employment law and finally health care law in both Houston and Galveston. She then attended Fuller Seminary and worked as the Director of Adult Education and Church Life at Windwood Presbyterian Church in Houston, teaching Bible studies and other areas of Christian education. After two full careers, Cindy learned that though she was talented in many areas, retirement was not one of them.
Website: https://www.expediacruises.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cindy.pirtle Phone: (832) 529-1300 Office Address: off 99/Grand Parkway exit Kuykendahl Rd in Grand Parkway Market Place adjacent to Toasted Yolk, Chipotle Mexican Grill, facing the Grand Parkway and near Target. About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Royal Caribbean Ultimate Family Staterooms | Ep 65 | 26 Apr 2026 | 00:36:46 | |
In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis, takes a deep dive into Royal Caribbean’s most extravagant accommodations, which is the Ultimate Family Suites, Townhouses, and the newly announced Treehouse concept. She walks listeners through the full evolution of these one-of-a-kind accommodations, starting with the original two-story Ultimate Family Suite on Harmony of the Seas, designed as a colorful, activity-filled space for families. From there, she explores how these suites expanded across different ship classes, incorporating larger layouts, enhanced entertainment features, and more refined design elements. Dr. Krystal also breaks down what comes with Royal Caribbean’s Star Class experience, including Royal Genie service, dining inclusions, and priority access, while noting where even these ultra-premium experiences still come with extra costs. Finally, she tackles the big question: price. With some suites reaching $100,000 to $200,000 per sailing, she offers a realistic look at what travelers are paying and who these experiences are truly designed for. This episode is a fun, honest exploration of cruise ship luxury at its most extreme, and a guide to deciding whether these “mini homes at sea” are worth the splurge. Episode Highlights:
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| New Cruise Line Viva | Ep 64 | 19 Apr 2026 | 00:29:12 | |
Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with Michelle McSorley of Nova Luxury Travels to explore the vibrant world of river cruising through the lens of the 2026 ASTA River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam. Michelle was lucky enough to attend the festive christening of AmaWaterways’ newest vessel, the AmaSofia, and shares the celebratory energy, speeches, drone show, and heartfelt quote from the godmother. The conversation dives deep into what makes river cruising special, smooth sailing, beautiful scenery, smaller ships, and outstanding service, while highlighting standout experiences aboard AmaWaterways and the lesser-known but impressive German line VIVA Cruises. Michelle details her stay on the VIVA Enjoy, including its airy design, all-inclusive offerings, delicious dining, and warm international crew. She also discusses exciting new developments, such as Celebrity River Cruises launching in 2027 and VIVA’s upcoming boutique ship. Listeners will walk away inspired by the variety of options in river cruising, practical insights for choosing the right line, and Michelle’s personal definition of luxury as effortless, worry-free travel. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Michelle McSorley is a Concierge Travel Advisor and Certified Travel Associate (CTA) who, alongside her husband Kevin, owns NoVA Luxury Travels, a Favorite Grampy Travels affiliate. A lifelong traveler who explored Europe and Australia as a child, Michelle is passionate about crafting personalized experiences for her clients — from land adventures to sea. Cruising holds a special place in her heart: she has sailed to Alaska, Hawaii, and the Caribbean with her family, and Mediterranean, Iceland, and British Isles voyages are on the horizon. She and Kevin are already counting down to a Christmas markets cruise on the Danube following the 2027 launch of Celebrity's river cruise line. NoVA Luxury Travels, An Affiliate of Favorite Grampy Travels Email: NoVALuxury@FavoriteGrampyTravels.com Phone: (703) 966-3587 Website: https://NoVALuxuryTravels.com FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleKevFGLT FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/CruiseFoodAndDrinksSociety About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| P&O with Bradley | Ep 63 | 12 Apr 2026 | 00:28:15 | |
What do you actually get when you book a suite on P&O Cruises, and is it worth the upgrade? Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with returning guest Bradley to give listeners a comprehensive P&O Cruises primer; from its rich British heritage as the Peninsula & Oriental Line to how it compares with Princess Cruises. Bradley shares his personal experiences sailing two very different ships and two very different suites: the legendary two-storey Penthouse Suites (Piano and Library) on the classic, adult-oriented Aurora versus a spacious modern suite on the family-friendly megaship Iona. The conversation covers the evolving vibe of P&O ships, the huge differences between classic and contemporary vessels, and a candid look at suite benefits, including butler service, priority boarding, specialty breakfast, and where the experience falls short compared to other lines’ ship-within-a-ship offerings. Listeners will hear Bradley’s balanced take on P&O’s strengths, alongside honest feedback on inclusions like no free Wi-Fi, no drinks package, no exclusive dining for dinner, and limited priority services, even in the top suites. The episode also touches on P&O’s dress code, British cultural immersion, and why loyal fans keep returning despite the gaps. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Bradley, creator of Explore with Bradley, is a lifelong cruiser from South Wales, UK. Having sailed on nearly 60 cruises across every major and luxury line, he brings candid, firsthand insights to his growing online community. His content is known for being open, honest, and authentically self-funded—showing what travel really looks like beyond the brochure.
Previous Episodes:
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. 📝 Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Carnival Marti Gras Excel Suite | Ep 62 | 05 Apr 2026 | 00:24:41 | |
What happens when Haven-loving luxury travelers take a chance on Carnival’s Excel Suite on the Mardi Gras with two babies in tow? Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with Rebekah and Ben Guillow of Lux Travel for Families to discuss their bold decision to try Carnival’s brand-new Mardi Gras in an Excel Suite shortly after cruising resumed post-COVID. As longtime Norwegian Haven fans, they share why they chose this massive ship for their young children (then 9 months and 4 years old), what the Forward Excel Corner Suite actually delivered, and how Loft 19 compared to The Haven. The conversation covers the ship’s neighborhood design, the surprisingly elegant and muted-tone suite with a separate bedroom and living room, massive wrap balcony, “car wash” shower, and excellent room steward service. Rebekah and Ben highlight standout perks like priority dining reservations, food delivery to Loft 19, the exclusive family pool, and the outstanding cabana service that included daily sparkling wine, snacks, and personalized touches for their daughter. Listeners get a grounded, family-focused perspective on whether Carnival’s Excel Suites offer real luxury value, especially for parents who want both excitement and relaxation. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Benjamin and Rebekah Guillow met on vacation in Mexico, so travel has been part of their story from the very beginning. Before having kids, they explored the world extensively, and when they became parents, they were told that kind of travel would have to slow down. Instead, they chose to bring their kids along for the journey. Along the way, they discovered that families are not only welcomed but truly embraced, even in the most luxurious destinations. That passion led us to become travel agents with a Forbes-rated agency in 2023, where they now help others create unforgettable experiences. they book everything from weekend getaways to bucket-list adventures, specializing in luxury travel for families, couples, and individuals. For them, travel isn’t just what they do, it’s who they are, and they’re always excited to see where it takes them next. Connect with Benjamin and Rebekah: Email: Rebekah.BenGuillow@LuxRallyTravel.com Website: Ben & Rebekah Guillow | Travel Advisor Youtube: @luxtravelforfamilies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luxtravelforfamilies About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ritz-Carlton Yachts with Sonal | Ep 61 | 29 Mar 2026 | 00:29:07 | |
Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with Sonal to explore every detail of a 5-night Caribbean cruise aboard The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Evrima. Sonal and her husband celebrated their anniversary with a last-minute suite upgrade, experiencing the ship’s modern luxury vibe, thoughtful butler service, and personalized touches that made them feel genuinely cared for. They dive into the ship’s intimate scale (only 150–298 guests), the mix of modern decor with high-end details, spacious suites with private dining areas and large balconies, and standout dining including the reservations-required S.E.A. Sonal shares honest insights on the relaxed dress code, diverse passenger demographic, personalized excursions, evening entertainment, and the constant flow of champagne and attentive service without nickel-and-diming. The conversation also touches on how Ritz-Carlton yachts aim to blend superyacht intimacy with cruise convenience, and how the experience stacks up against Sonal’s definition of luxury. Listeners will get a grounded, joyful look at whether this ultra-luxury yacht offering delivers the “pinnacle” experience many travelers dream about. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Sonal is an integrative psychiatrist based in Illinois with a passion for luxurious travel. She and her husband are avid luxury travelers who enjoy spontaneous high-end experiences, including the Orient Express, a night at Versailles, Antarctica, and the Galápagos. Instagram: @eye.want.candy About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Underappreciated Luxury Perks | Ep60 | 22 Mar 2026 | 00:20:28 | |
In this solo episode of Luxury Cruising, Dr.Krystal Sodaitis spotlights six underrated perks of luxury cruising that don't always make the brochures but deliver outsized joy and practicality. From the game-changing convenience of included laundry, to the simple pleasure of a plush bathrobe after the pool or hot tub, she breaks down why these features matter, especially on longer voyages or in variable weather. She dives into in-room coffee/tea setups for relaxed balcony moments, the surprising versatility of butler service (beyond unpacking), the perfectly timed afternoon canapés that hit just right, and the sanity-saving perks of priority tendering and debarkation. Listeners will walk away appreciating how these "little things" turn a great cruise into an effortlessly luxurious one, and why they keep her and many others coming back to luxury lines. She invites listeners to share their own surprise perks via email or comments. Episode Highlights:
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Paul Gauguin with Sylvia | Ep 59 | 15 Mar 2026 | 00:36:52 | |
Dr. Krystal Sodaitis sits down with returning guest Sylvia Hanna, owner of Luxe for Less Travel, for a candid debrief of her latest voyage: an 11-night Paul Gauguin cruise around French Polynesia with a group of 33 (more than 10% of the entire ship!). Sylvia breaks down the full experience from business-class flights and pre-cruise overwater bungalows at the InterContinental Tahiti and St. Regis Bora Bora, to life onboard the older, smaller Paul Gauguin. She shares exactly what exceeded expectations (Polynesian crew hospitality, turtle sea-scooter excursions, intimate dining views) and what fell short: dated 1990s décor, tiny rocking cabins, no thermal spa, identical food in all three restaurants, zero pre-cruise group dining reservations, lack of shade on deck, and almost no activities on sea days. Listeners get the real talk on why Paul Gauguin feels more “refined premium” than true luxury today, how Silversea, Seabourn, and Regent now do it better, plus Sylvia’s pro tip: rent a car on the islands and skip the bus tours. She also answers a listener question about dress codes and shares her personal definition of luxury. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest Sylvia Hanna is the owner and operator of Luxe for Less Travel and a luxury traveler with more than 40 cruises across nearly every major cruise line. She just returned from leading a group of 33 clients on the Paul Gauguin in French Polynesia, her third visit to the islands, and brings her trademark honest, no-hype perspective on what actually delivers, and what doesn’t at this price point. Email: luxeforlesstravel@yahoo.com About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Hosted Cruises | Ep 58 | 08 Mar 2026 | 00:31:16 | |
Host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis chats with returning guest Kim about Hosted Cruises, a lesser-known perk offered through travel consortia that enhances sailings on select premium and luxury lines without any added cost. Kim breaks down what a consortia is, why you should always ask your travel advisor about theirs, and how hosted sailings work. A dedicated host provides concierge-like service, from answering port questions to organizing private events, all while keeping your itinerary fully independent. They discuss differences from group cruises, included amenities like onboard credits and private tours via vetted local experts, and why it's ideal for first-timers or solo travelers. Kim shares her upcoming hosted sailing on Explora Journeys through Greece and Turkey, and tips on booking through consortia like Signature for maximum value. Listeners will gain insider advice on elevating their next cruise with hidden perks, comparing hosted experiences across lines like Oceania, Seabourn, and river cruises, and understanding why these aren't available through big-box retailers like Costco. Episode Highlights:
Episode 44: A Honeymoon Aboard Explora Journeys : Megan recounts her idyllic honeymoon cruise through Greece and Turkey, visiting Athens, Santorini, Crete, Marmaris, and Istanbul. She highlights luxurious ocean terrace suites, top-notch amenities, and exceptional service that made the journey unforgettable. Episode 46: Explore Journeys Explorer 1 Review: Is This the New Standard in Luxury Cruising? : Bradley breakdown Explorer 1, MSC's six-star yacht-style cruise ship, sharing honest insights on design, dining, entertainment, and value. With 60 cruises' experience, he reveals how Explorer is redefining luxury cruising with surprising elegance. About the Guest: Kim is a home-based travel advisor and member of the Signature Travel Network, specializing in cruises and luxury travel. With extensive experience in hosted sailings and consortia-negotiated perks, she brings practical insights to help travelers maximize value and enjoy personalized experiences at sea.Kim shares her adventures, cruise reviews, and travel tips at loveourworldtravel.com, where you can read all about her travel adventures. 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimurig About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The Haven on Norwegian Joy | Ep 57 | 01 Mar 2026 | 00:34:02 | |
Host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Melanie to dive into her recent short cruise on Norwegian Joy, focusing on the Haven’s ship-within-a-ship perks that turned a quick trip into pure relaxation. Melanie recounts her seamless embarkation at bustling Port Canaveral, the joys of a spacious aft suite with ocean-view tub, and the standout Haven restaurant where staff anticipated every need. They discuss butler and concierge services, private pools and hot tubs, priority access to shows and go-karts, and the exclusive Silver Cove enclave on Great Stirrup Cay, complete with air-conditioned cabanas, infinity pools, and private buffets. Melanie compares it to Disney’s concierge, highlighting Norwegian’s edge in dedicated dining and value. The episode explores why the Haven suits families seeking quiet luxury, how it enhances short cruises from Orlando, perfect for pairing with theme parks, and honest insights on tendering, inclusions, and what makes this refined premium cruising worth the splurge. Listeners will gain a clear picture of who the Haven is ideal for, especially on Norwegian’s Breakaway and class ships like Joy and Encore. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest: Melanie is a mom and avid cruiser from Pennsylvania with experience on multiple lines, including Disney and Norwegian. A Disney Vacation Club member and boating enthusiast, she loves pairing cruises with theme park visits and seeks out relaxed, luxurious getaways with her teenage son. About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Crystal Symphony East Africa Adventure| Ep 56 | 22 Feb 2026 | 00:31:29 | |
Host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis chats with guest Megan about her transformative journey on Crystal Symphony to East Africa, a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and solo-friendly travel. Megan dives into Crystal's boutique-style ships, comparing Symphony to Serenity, and highlights why this itinerary drew her: reduced solo supplements, Madagascar's biodiversity, and first-time Africa exploration. They cover suite details like the Sapphire Ocean View Suite, butler service, dining highlights from Waterside to specialty spots like Beef Bar and Umi Uma (Nobu at Sea), and excursions through rainforests and nature reserves. They further discussed the laundry perks, allergy accommodations, and 24/7 room service, while touching on Crystal's post-COVID revival under Abercrombie & Kent. Megan shares why the crew's warmth and dedication make it special, and reflects on her definition of luxury as effortless comfort. Listeners will gain insights on who Crystal Symphony suits best, especially solo travelers or wildlife enthusiasts, and how it stacks up against other luxury lines for immersive, hassle-free adventures. Episode Highlights:
About the Guest Megan is a forensic psychiatrist from Baltimore, Maryland, with a passion for cruising that started in 2021. Having sailed multiple lines, she favors Crystal for its luxury and has explored both Symphony and Serenity. As a 50/50 solo/group traveler, she brings honest insights on value, wildlife adventures, and what makes a cruise truly special. About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Luxury Cruising Q&A | Ep 55 | 15 Feb 2026 | 00:26:20 | |
Join host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis for a listener-driven Q&A unpacking the essentials of luxury cruising. She dives into what sets luxury lines apart from premium and mainstream (think space, service, and fewer thrills), she breaks down personalized service roles like concierge, butler, and the ultimate Royal Genie, and shares honest takes on value, first-timer picks, suite selection, onboard boredom myths, and demographics for younger cruisers. Whether you're eyeing a serene Seabourn escape or a ship-within-a-ship like MSC Yacht Club, this episode equips you to decide if luxury cruising aligns with your travel dreams, without the hype. Episode Highlights
Podcast Mentioned In the Episode A Honeymoon Aboard Explora Journeys | Ep 44
About the Host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. 📝 Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The Sanctuary Experience on Princess | Ep 54 | 08 Feb 2026 | 00:27:04 | |
Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Jason Robinson, and they dive into his recent Princess Cruises Sanctuary experience — a premium ship-within-a-ship offering that blends exclusivity with relaxed elegance. Jason shares how his deal-savvy spouse surprised him with the Sanctuary for a birthday cruise, highlighting the effortless embarkation, quiet poolside mornings with champagne walls, and medallion technology that enabled personalized greetings and seamless service. They discuss the standard balcony room’s simplicity and the Sanctuary’s real perks: a serene outdoor space, attentive staff, and exclusive dining that felt like a shoreside restaurant. Jason contrasts it with Norwegian’s Haven, noting Sanctuary’s greater comfort, better food, and value despite the lack of concierge-level perks. He explains why he skipped ports to relax onboard, praises the medallions for locating companions and unlocking doors, and reflects on Sanctuary’s luxury appeal for those who prefer low-key vibes over crowds. The episode offers grounded insights for cruisers weighing ship-within-a-ship options, emphasizing Sanctuary’s balance of quiet luxury, tech convenience, and affordability — perfect for early risers, deal seekers, and those craving worry-free escapes. Episode Highlights
About the Guest Jason Robinson is a Wisconsin-based cruiser who loves warm-weather escapes and leaves the deal-hunting to his spouse. With experiences across multiple lines, including Norwegian’s Haven, he brings a practical perspective on what makes ship-within-a-ship perks truly worthwhile, focusing on comfort, quiet, and value.
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Norwegian Viva to Greece in The Haven | Ep 53 | 01 Feb 2026 | 00:39:30 | |
Dr. Krystal chats with Jennifer about her family’s leap into luxury cruising aboard Norwegian Viva’s Haven during a Mediterranean itinerary through Greece and Turkey. As a working mom with teenage sons (14 and 16), Jennifer explains how her travel agent guided them to The Haven for its seamless service, private spaces, and stress-free perks. They dive into the two-bedroom suite details, butler and concierge support, priority access for tenders and elevators, dining comparisons (Haven restaurant vs. specialties like Italian and hibachi), teen activities, and how Haven elevated ports like Santorini (with van tours) and Mykonos (Jeep excursions). Jennifer also shares candid insights on what worked for teens (go-karts, independence) and minor drawbacks (noise in hibachi, limited arcade hours). Listeners will gain a realistic view of Haven’s value for families, why it’s hard to go back to standard cruising, and how it stacks up against other premium experiences, perfect for parents eyeing Mediterranean luxury with kids. Episode Highlights
Episode Mentioned In This Show Episode 12: MSC Yacht Club on MSC Seashore: Sylvia Hanna takes listeners inside the MSC Yacht Club on MSC Seashore, sharing her deck-by-deck experience of this hidden gem of European-style cruising — from private lounges and priority perks to exclusive beach access and elevated service aboard the stylish ship.
About the Guest: Jennifer is a radiologist and work-from-home mom from the US with two teenage sons (14 and 16). A relatively new cruiser, she’s explored destinations like Iceland and Costa Rica, but this was her first luxury cruise experience. With guidance from her travel agent, she brings a fresh, family-focused perspective on what makes The Haven shine for busy parents and teens.
About the Host: Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Neurodiversity and Cruising | Ep52 | 25 Jan 2026 | 00:29:40 | |
In this heartfelt solo episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis dives deep into how neurodiversity affects vacation planning and why cruising (particularly luxury cruising) is uniquely well-suited for individuals with ADHD, autism, and social anxiety. Dr. Krystal explores the unique challenges of vacation planning for those with ADHD, Autism, and Social Anxiety, then explains how to reduce executive functioning overload, decision fatigue, and sensory overload while cruising. She covers key topics including predictable schedules, static ship layouts, reduced choices, dopamine-friendly activities, sensory-friendly spaces, in-cabin dining options, and the significant advantages of smaller luxury ships and suite-class areas. Listeners will also receive practical tips like using room service during overstimulation, packing a “calm bag,” choosing smaller excursions, and why higher staff-to-guest ratios in luxury cruising make a big difference. This episode is especially valuable for neurodiverse adults, parents of neurodiverse children, and anyone who wants to make cruising less overwhelming and more enjoyable. Episode Highlights
About the Host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Cunard Grills Explained: Princess vs Queen Grills, Ocean Liners, and the True Ship-Within-a-Ship Experience | Ep 51 | 18 Jan 2026 | 00:43:00 | |
Dr. Krystal sits down with returning guest Bradley to unpack everything travelers need to know about Cunard’s famed Grills experience — one of the longest-running “ship-within-a-ship” concepts at sea. Bradley explains Cunard’s deep history as a British brand, the difference between an ocean liner vs a cruise ship, and why Queen Mary 2 remains the only true ocean liner still sailing today. Together, they explore how Cunard’s Princess Grill and Queen Grill suites compare in terms of room size, dining, service, inclusions, and value — including where expectations often don’t match reality. The conversation goes beyond marketing language to examine what actually makes the Grills experience special: food quality, private dining, quieter spaces, white-glove afternoon tea, ballroom dancing traditions, and Cunard’s old-world elegance. Bradley also candidly addresses where Cunard lags behind other luxury brands, including limited inclusions like Wi-Fi, drinks, spa access, and priority seating. Listeners will come away with a grounded understanding of who Cunard Grills is best for, why people keep returning despite the gaps, and how Cunard compares to Yacht Club, The Haven, and other modern ship-within-a-ship offerings.
Episode Highlights
About the Guest Bradley, creator of Explore with Bradley, is a lifelong cruiser from South Wales, UK. Having sailed on nearly 60 cruises across every major and luxury line, he brings candid, firsthand insights to his growing online community. His content is known for being open, honest, and authentically self-funded—showing what travel really looks like beyond the brochure.
About the Host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| MSC World Europa Yacht Club: Family Travel, Space, and Seamless Luxury | Ep 50 | 11 Jan 2026 | 00:44:39 | |
Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes pediatrician and avid traveler Rima, who takes listeners inside her family’s Mediterranean sailing aboard MSC World Europa Yacht Club. She shares how the ship-within-a-ship model — including a two-story duplex suite, private lounge and pool deck, dedicated dining, priority access, and butler support — created space and ease that made traveling with her teenage children feel meaningful rather than stressful. Rima offers a transparent look at itinerary choices, dining flexibility, onboard entertainment, port days, crowd-free logistics, and how MSC’s pricing stacked up against brands like Norwegian Haven. Together, she and Dr. Krystal explore why the Yacht Club experience stood out: more room, more autonomy, less waiting, and more quality time as a family. Listeners will walk away with a clear sense of how Mediterranean itineraries, suite design, and personalized service can redefine what family cruising feels like. HIGHLIGHTS:
Rima is a pediatrician, avid traveler, and mom of two teens who combines clinical insight with real-world family travel experience. She joined the show to share her recent Mediterranean sailing aboard MSC World Europa’s Yacht Club, offering a grounded perspective on suite layout, service, ports, logistics, and value — especially when cruising with older kids. As someone who deeply values time together, ease of movement, cultural immersion, and meaningful memories, Rima brings warmth, clarity, and practical honesty to the conversation, making her insights especially valuable for families considering luxury cruising with teens. About the HostDr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Forming Your Luxury Traveler Identity with Mikayla | Ep 49 | 04 Jan 2026 | 00:33:21 | |
In this transformative episode, Dr. Krystal welcomes luxury travel concierge and coach Mikayla for a conversation that expands far beyond itineraries and price points. Instead of talking logistics, cruise perks, or comparison shopping, Mikayla offers a deep look into the identity, emotion, and embodiment behind luxury travel — including the story of a client whose journey onboard the MS Symphony, a boutique Nile River cruise ship, marked the beginning of a personal and emotional pivot. Listeners will learn how travel — and luxury cruising in particular — can move from vacation to transformation, and how the ships we choose can become mirrors for who we are and who we’re becoming. This episode opens the door to mindset, alignment, inner permission, visioning, identity evolution, and the energetic qualities of choosing the right cruise experience. Because this episode was different from the usual logistics-first travel conversation, Mikayla wanted to offer my audience a gift to go deeper, a bridge into this way of thinking, without overwhelming them. Mikayla has extended 20% off her Annual Substack membership to Luxury Cruising listeners. Inside, she goes deeper into this philosophy in a grounded, accessible way by weaving together luxury travel, identity, discernment, practical guidance, destination inspiration, and guides. 20% off the Editorial Annual Substack membership that goes deeper into luxury travel from the lens of energetics: https://mikaylabrunson.substack.com/gift20
✨ The MS Symphony as a transformational, identity-aligned Nile River experience Mikayla Brunson is a leader in Identity-First Luxury Design; a category where travel becomes a portal for personal evolution. As founder of Merazh, she merges high-end travel curation with intuitive emotional attunement, feminine energetics, and spiritual grounding to create journeys that upgrade identity, not just itineraries. Her approach is built on lived experience: shedding masculine survival strategies, embracing feminine leadership and learning to move through the world with softness, depth and conviction. This embodiment now informs her signature philosophy, The Frequency of Luxury: an approach that treats place, pacing and atmosphere as tools for nervous system restoration and identity expansion. Women come to Mikayla not for logistics but for transformation. Her work serves CEOs, founders, mothers and women who lead big lives and want to travel in a way that mirrors who they are becoming. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikaylabrunson About the HostDr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Exploring Antarctica in Comfort: Scenic Eclipse Expedition Cruise | Ep 48 | 28 Dec 2025 | 00:34:13 | |
Joelle Berlat returns to Luxury Cruising to recount her Antarctic expedition aboard Scenic Eclipse, Scenic’s ultra-luxury, purpose-built discovery yacht. With just 200 guests onboard for Antarctic sailings, Scenic Eclipse is able to land every passenger on the continent—an experience that larger ships simply cannot offer due to strict environmental regulations. The result is a deeply immersive journey shaped by expert-led excursions, seamless logistics, and moments of quiet awe. Joelle describes a ship that feels more like a private mega-yacht than a traditional cruise ship, featuring modern, elegant interiors, adjustable beds, private balconies, butler service, and an open bridge policy that allows guests to observe navigation and spot wildlife alongside the crew. The expedition experience itself was extraordinary: zodiac landings, kayaking through brash ice near seals, helicopter flights over towering ice structures, and close encounters with whales, penguins, and glaciers. Onboard naturalists—including experts in whales, geology, Antarctic history, and ice science—provided rich context that elevated every excursion. Beyond exploration, Scenic delivered thoughtful touches: warm drinks awaiting guests after landings, organized color groups to ensure fairness and flow, and a special Seventh Continent celebration for travelers completing all seven continents. Antarctica exceeded expectations not just for its beauty, but for its silence, scale, and emotional impact—an experience that felt both humbling and unforgettable. Key Highlights
Joelle Berlat is a retired CPA and avid traveler who now spends much of her time cruising and exploring expedition destinations around the world. She brings a thoughtful, grounded perspective to luxury and expedition travel, with a deep appreciation for expert-led experiences, seamless logistics, and meaningful exploration. Joelle Berlat is married to Jeff Berlat at Purple Lemming Travel. Jeff is an Accredited Cruise Counsellor (CLIA), Celebrity Iconic Advisor and an affiliate of KHM Travel Group where he has attained Gold Pinnacle. When he’s not planning his next sailing, you’ll find him at home in Houston with his wife, preparing for their next adventure. Facebook: Purple Lemming Travel Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Seabourn Sojourn Review: Ultra-Luxury Cruising Through Canada & New York | Ep 47 | 21 Dec 2025 | 00:38:36 | |
Michele Wirth, owner of Simply Inspired Travel, joins the show to unpack her first ultra-luxury cruise experience aboard Seabourn Sojourn—a small-ship, high-touch voyage through the St. Lawrence River, Atlantic Canada, and New York City. With just 400 guests onboard, the ship never felt crowded, rushed, or impersonal. Instead, the experience was defined by space, ease, and thoughtful service. Luxury showed up in quiet but consistent ways: freshly squeezed orange juice delivered via room service each morning, perfectly timed ice service every evening, and personalized in-suite touches that made the stateroom feel intentionally cared for. Michele describes the ship’s classic, refined design, spacious veranda staterooms, and dining experiences that rival fine restaurants on land. From service-led buffet dining and sushi served during card games to daily afternoon tea and a specialty restaurant experience, Seabourn’s all-inclusive model delivered both quality and value. Entertainment exceeded expectations, with high-caliber guest performers, a talented house band, trivia, enrichment talks from onboard experts, and social spaces that encouraged meaningful connection among guests. The itinerary—Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax (overnight), and New York City (overnight)—combined river-cruise-style scenery with the sophistication of ocean sailing. A signature caviar and champagne sail-away in New York City served as a defining moment of the voyage. Ultimately, this episode reframes ultra-luxury cruising not as excess, but as intention, space, service, and ease. Key Highlights
Michele Wirth is the owner of Simply Inspired Travel, based in Tampa, Florida, with advisors across the country. A lifelong cruiser with more than 60 sailings, Michelle specializes in luxury and ultra-luxury travel experiences, helping clients choose cruises that align with their preferences for service, space, enrichment, and overall experience—not just brand recognition. 🌐 Website: https://travelsimplyinspired.com Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Explore Journeys Explorer 1 Review: Is This the New Standard in Luxury Cruising? | Ep 46 | 14 Dec 2025 | 00:48:58 | |
Some cruisers chase itineraries. Others chase loyalty perks. But Bradley—now on his 60th sailing—chases experiences. And on this episode of Luxury Cruising, he gives us a rare, detailed, and unfiltered look inside Explorer Journeys’ Explorer 1, MSC’s bold entrance into the world of six-star, yacht-style cruising. From the moment he arrived at the port in Athens, something felt different: a shimmering navy hull, private hosts guiding the entire check-in experience, and a boarding process so seamless he barely realized it had happened. Once onboard, the Explorer 1 delivered on its promise of “luxury yacht living” in every direction—soft-lit lounges, curated art, and public spaces designed with the kind of restraint and elegance normally reserved for boutique hotels. Even the entry-level Ocean Terrace Suite surprised him with its elevated materials, thoughtful touches, and spa-like finishes. Things only escalated from there. Bradley walks us through standout dining moments—from plant-forward displays in the Marketplace to the immersive cooking theatrics of Marble & Co. to the modern, serene flavors of Sakura. And yes, he even splurged on Anthology, Explorer’s fine-dining, Michelin-inspired gastronomic experience. We also explore:
Toward the end, Bradley offers a refreshingly balanced comparison: Explorer Journeys isn’t just a new ship; it's an entirely new category—combining the polish of six-star cruising with the warmth and playfulness of a boutique European resort. And yes… he’s already booked Explorer 5 for its 2028 inaugural season. Whether you're planning your first luxury voyage or simply love hearing how the upper-tier cruise lines stack up, this episode will make you rethink what “luxury at sea” can look like. Key Highlights
Bradley, creator of Explore with Bradley, is a lifelong cruiser from South Wales, UK. Having sailed on nearly 60 cruises across every major and luxury line, he brings candid, firsthand insights to his growing online community. His content is known for being open, honest, and authentically self-funded—showing what travel really looks like beyond the brochure.
Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Wonder of the Seas, 1BR Grand Suite | Ep 45 | 07 Dec 2025 | 00:31:47 | |
Some people fall in love with the ocean early—and never look back. For 18-year-old Hollis, known online as Ship Insider, cruising isn’t just a hobby. It’s part passion, part playground, part early career dream. And on this episode of Luxury Cruising, he takes us inside his stay on one of TikTok’s most-requested spaces aboard Wonder of the Seas: the one-bedroom Grand Suite 1750, complete with its own 25-foot hallway and a balcony that feels part-suite, part-captain’s view. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser, a Royal Caribbean loyalist, or someone who loves hearing a young creator’s genuine excitement for life at sea, this episode will make you see short sailings—and Sky Class—through brand-new eyes. Key Highlights🚢 Inside Suite 1750: 🎧 Living Above the Bass: ⭐ Sky Class Perks: 🔑 Sky Class + The Key = Genius: 🍽️ Coastal Kitchen Excellence: ⚓ Captain Connection: 🛳️ Wonder vs. Navigator: 🛁 NCL Haven vs. Sky Class: 🧭 Dream Itineraries: Hollis Ames, known as Ship Insider on TikTok, is an 18-year-old cruise content creator, aspiring cruise-ship captain, and all-around ship enthusiast. He’s passionate about nautical design, suite-class experiences, and documenting life onboard through TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. TikTok: @shipinsider YouTube: Hollis Ames Vlogs Instagram/TikTok (DJ account): Holiwood Music X: Hollis Ames About the HostDr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| A Honeymoon Aboard Explora Journeys | Ep 44 | 30 Nov 2025 | 00:24:54 | |
What does modern luxury look like on the open sea? When Megan and her husband decided to trade a one-day wedding for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, they booked an Explora Journeys cruise — and never looked back. In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Krystal Sodaitis chats with Megan about her honeymoon sailing through Greece and Turkey, exploring ports like Athens, Santorini, Crete, Marmaris, and Istanbul. Megan breaks down what made the voyage extraordinary — from spacious ocean terrace suites and Dyson hairdryers to world-class dining, wellness amenities, and genuine hospitality. With six specialty restaurants, intuitive service, and a focus on holistic well-being, Explora Journeys offers a younger, design-forward take on luxury cruising. Megan reveals her favorite destinations, onboard highlights, and why she defines luxury as completely stress-free living. If you’ve ever wondered whether modern luxury is worth the investment, this episode will convince you — sometimes the best splurges are the ones that feed your soul. Key Highlights
Megan is a project manager and avid traveler based in Tampa, Florida. After sharing her Explora Journeys experience on TikTok, her honest and enthusiastic review inspired thousands to reconsider how they define luxury. Megan’s content celebrates meaningful experiences over material ones — and her honeymoon story proves that sometimes, the best memories come from taking the road (or ocean) less traveled. 🎥 TikTok: @megansiii About the HostDr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. 📧 Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Celebrity Apex’s Iconic Suite: Cruise to Iceland & Ireland | Ep 43 | 23 Nov 2025 | 00:35:49 | |
Some trips sparkle a little brighter. For Joelle Berlat, that moment came when a group of close friends decided to celebrate a milestone birthday somewhere rugged, beautiful, and worthy of a big “why not?”—a cruise to Ireland and Iceland aboard Celebrity Apex. In this warm and wonderfully honest conversation, Joelle walks us through what it’s really like to stay in one of Celebrity’s most exclusive suites. With two full bedrooms, panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, a sprawling deck that juts out from the front of the ship, and a private butler who seems to understand your needs before you do—the Iconic Suite isn’t just a stateroom. It’s a luxury bubble floating above the sea. Key Highlights🌊 A Suite With a View 🧳 Why This Suite Works (and When It Doesn’t) 🍽️ Butler Magic 🎟️ Skip Every Line 🛁 Luxury Ashore 🚢 Why Edge-Class Ships Shine 💬 Defining Luxury Joelle Berlat is a passionate luxury traveler who has turned her “second chapter” into a life centered around cruising, exploring, and helping her travel-advisor husband plan remarkable journeys. Whether it’s an Antarctica expedition or a suite perched above the sea, Joelle brings curiosity, joy, and an eye for thoughtful details to every adventure she takes. About the HostDr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Experiencing Ultra-Luxury with Regent Seven Seas — Athens to Istanbul | Ep 42 | 16 Nov 2025 | 00:29:38 | |
What makes a luxury cruise feel truly luxurious? Dr. Krystal Sodaitis welcomes Pat from Dancing Moon Travel to explore what sets Regent Seven Seas Cruises apart. On her first-ever Regent voyage — an incentive trip for top-performing advisors — Pat sailed from Athens to Istanbul, discovering a brand that redefines elegance through warmth, attentiveness, and effortless sophistication. Pat explains why Regent’s all-suite, all-inclusive model is the ultimate value in high-end cruising — with fine dining (no upcharges), curated shore excursions, laundry service, and world-class hospitality included. She takes listeners through stunning ports like Santorini, Rhodes, Bodrum, and Kusadasi, sharing how small-ship cruising provides deeper cultural immersion and peaceful exploration. Whether you dream of the Aegean’s blue domes, crave Michelin-level cuisine at sea, or wonder how “luxury” looks different to every traveler — this conversation invites you to see ultra-luxury cruising in a whole new light. Key Highlights
Pat is a seasoned luxury travel advisor and owner of Dancing Moon Travel, based in Southwest Florida. Since 2008, she’s helped travelers craft unforgettable journeys around the world — from intimate yacht charters in Croatia to ultra-luxury cruises on Regent Seven Seas. Pat’s mission is simple: to help clients turn dream trips into seamless, soul-stirring realities. 📍 dancingmoontravel.com Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea. 📍 Website: luxurycruising.net 📝 Looking for the perfect luxury cruise: Take our quiz 👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. Looking for the perfect spa experience: Spa table Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||