Cruise Control

10 Secrets to Smooth Sailing on the High Seas

By: Barnaby Sorrens

Narrated by: Eric Brown

Ready to make your first cruise unforgettable—or take your next voyage to a whole new level? Cruise Control is your all-in-one guide to the magic, mystery, and marvels of life at sea. Whether you're a first-timer wondering what to pack or a repeat cruiser looking to uncover new tricks, this easy-to-follow guide reveals ten essential secrets for making the most of every moment aboard.

From the moment you choose your ship to the final farewell at the port, Cruise Control walks you through every stage of your journey with friendly, practical advice. Learn how to choose the ship that matches your travel style—whether you're after family fun, romantic luxury, or cultural discovery. Get insider tips on the best times to book, the smartest ways to pack, and how to stretch your cruise budget without missing out on memorable experiences.

Discover how to decode the often confusing world of cruise cabins, from inside rooms to balcony havens. Master the muster drill so you're prepared and confident from day one. Navigate the endless onboard activities with ease, and make the most of every thrilling shore excursion without the stress. You'll also learn how to stay connected—or happily unplugged—on the high seas, and how to handle unexpected changes with flexibility and a spirit of adventure.

This isn’t just another travel guide—it’s a toolkit for turning cruising into an art. Author Barnaby Sorrens draws from real-world travel insight to share cruise tips for beginners and returning travellers alike. With a warm tone and a clear focus on the details that make or break your trip, this book is designed to help you cruise smarter, not harder.

Inside, you’ll unlock tips like:

• How to find your ideal ship and avoid a mismatched experience
• When to book for the best deals (and what times to avoid)
• What to pack, what to skip, and what you’ll wish you brought
• How to pick the best cabin for your comfort, sleep, and sanity
• Why the muster drill is more than just a formality
• Which onboard activities are worth your time (and which to skip)
• How to plan shore excursions that create lifelong memories
• The truth about cruise Wi-Fi, roaming fees, and staying unplugged
• Budgeting hacks to help you enjoy more while spending less
• Why embracing the unexpected is your secret weapon at sea

Cruise Control is packed with clear explanations, fun examples, and step-by-step advice to ensure you sail with confidence, clarity, and a sense of wonder. Whether you’re heading to the Caribbean, Alaska, the Mediterranean, or beyond, these cruise travel tips will help you unlock the true potential of your holiday.

Because cruising isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how you feel when you get there. With the right prep and a curious heart, every cruise can be a voyage of discovery. All aboard for smoother sailing, smarter planning, and stories you'll treasure for a lifetime.

©2025 Deep Vision Media t/a Zentara UK (P)2025 Deep Vision Media t/a Zentara UK

Must-Read Before Booking Any Cruise

I read this before choosing my cruise and I’m so glad I did. It helped me find the perfect itinerary, avoid the high-pressure sales tactics, and stick to my budget.

Better Than Any Travel Blog

I’ve read dozens of blog posts on cruising, but none of them came close to this book’s clarity and detail. It’s comprehensive without being overwhelming, and genuinely fun to read.

Gave Me Confidence to Book My First Cruise

This book took away the intimidation of cruising. I now know how to choose the right cruise line, avoid rookie mistakes, and get the most for my money. Fantastic guide!

Learn to Navigate Cruise Life

This audiobook is like having a personal cruise mentor. It guides you through the often confusing aspects of ship life, from cabin choices to muster drills. Barnaby Sorrens’ advice is easy to understand and apply, and Eric Brown’s narration adds clarity and warmth. I felt prepared for every stage of my trip and enjoyed every moment at sea.

Smart, Savvy, and Surprisingly Fun to Read

Who knew cruise prep could be this entertaining? Barnaby’s sense of humor and storytelling makes the advice stick. I found myself laughing and learning at the same time.

Insightful Tips for Shore Excursions

The advice on planning shore excursions is particularly excellent. Barnaby emphasizes creating meaningful experiences rather than just checking off tourist spots. I loved how practical the tips were, including timing and prioritizing activities. Combined with the guidance on onboard scheduling and budgeting, this audiobook equips you to make the most of every port visit.

Helped Us Plan Our Dream Honeymoon

We used Cruise Control to plan our Mediterranean cruise honeymoon, and it was invaluable. The tips on choosing the right ship and handling unexpected changes made our trip unforgettable—in the best way!

Packing and Planning Simplified

The sections on what to pack—and what to skip—are worth the price alone. Barnaby Sorrens provides practical advice that prevents overpacking and ensures you have what you actually need. His step-by-step approach, combined with Eric Brown’s clear narration, makes planning stress-free and even fun. I feel prepared and confident for my first cruise.

Turned Me into a Cruise Planning Pro

I’ve been on two cruises before, but this book still taught me so much. It’s full of little-known tips that can really elevate your trip. Highly recommend for repeat cruisers too!

Helped Us Avoid Rookie Mistakes

My husband and I were so grateful for this book! It saved us from overpacking, overspending, and picking the wrong cabin. We cruised like pros thanks to Barnaby’s tips.