Cruise Ship Explorers

Join hosts Mike and Rachel on Cruise Ship Explorers, the ultimate cruise podcast for vacation seekers eager to dive into the exciting world of cruising! Each episode, Mike and Rachel bring you engaging conversations with the most fascinating cruise professionals, power cruisers, and cruise celebrities sailing the high seas. Discover what it’s truly like to work and live on a cruise ship through insider stories and exclusive interviews. Get expert tips from seasoned cruisers on snagging the best deals, choosing the perfect itineraries, and making the most of your sea adventures. And don’t miss our deep dives into themed cruises, where we chat with celebrities, musicians, and more about their unique nautical experiences. Whether you’re a cruising newbie or a seasoned sailor, the Cruise Ship Explorers podcast promises to entertain, inform, and inspire your next seafaring getaway. So, hoist the anchor, and let’s set sail for fun and discovery together!

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Episodes

Wednesday Sep 11, 2024

Cruise Podcast Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea Joe Bonamassa's Theme Cruise  Interview with True Strays
**Interview with True Strays on Joe Bonamassa's Theme Cruise** **Band Description:** True Strays, the Bristol-based duo of Joseph James and James Cameron, are making waves in the UK Americana scene. Their music blends alternative roots Americana with blues rock, turning life's struggles into powerful, soul-stirring performances. Influenced by legends like Neil Young and modern acts like Alabama Shakes, they've toured extensively, played major festivals, and built a reputation for their raw, emotive sound. Click Here to see more about the band https://www.truestrays.com/ **Experience on Joe Bonamassa's Theme Cruise:** Performing on Joe Bonamassa's themed cruise was a surreal experience for True Strays. The ocean's vastness mirrored the depth of their music, creating an unforgettable setting. Playing to an enthusiastic, like-minded audience in such an intimate environment heightened their connection with fans. The cruise offered a unique blend of camaraderie, creativity, and community, making it a deeply inspiring experience for the band Join The Cruise Ship Explorers Crew https://cruiseshipexplorers.com/join-us/ Stay up to date and never miss out. Its free to join ! About Us Ahoy, Travelers! Welcome aboard Cruise Ship Explorers, where Rachel and Mike transform their love for cruising into a full-time adventure. Rachel, a TV host and STEM expert known from "All Girls Garage" and the Science Channel, and Mike, a music industry powerhouse, bring you their combined expertise and vibrant personalities. They've sailed the seven seas, met incredible people in the cruise industry, and now share their insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories with you. Expect insider tips, destination deep dives, foodie adventures, and celebrity chats. Join Rachel and Mike as they explore and share the thrilling world of cruising! ________________________________________________________________ Business inquiries & media: please contact https://cruiseshipexplorers.com/advertising-opportunities/ ____________________________________________________________________________ Please be aware that Cruise Ship Explorers cannot offer individualized cruise and travel recommendations. We invite you to share your comments, and we will strive to respond as best as we can. Thank you for your understanding, and we greatly appreciate your support and engagement! ________________________________________________________________ Merch: "Ridiculous Merch We Absolutely Love and Shamelessly Want You to Buy" https://cruise-ship-explorers.creator-spring.com/listing/cruise-ship-explorer-zip-hoodi https://cruise-ship-explorers.creator-spring.com/listing/cruise-ship-explorers-logo _____________________________________________________________________________________ Here’s a bunch of products we swear by on our trips—you don’t have to buy them, but let’s be honest, your life would be 10% better if you did. Seriously, it’s top-shelf stuff! Cruise Must-Haves! Cruise Power Strip https://amzn.to/4cayw2B D&D Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag for Men and Women https://amzn.to/3SpAyVG Silicone Bottle Covers https://amzn.to/46ok4mo Bee Green Shoe Organizer https://amzn.to/3WskF1S Compression Packing Cubes https://amzn.to/3WKACSF Packing Cubes for Suitcases https://amzn.to/4dpD7zh Shampoo Bar & Shea Butter Conditioner Bar https://amzn.to/46pa78u Travel Blow Dryer Brush in one https://amzn.to/4foUemj Popup Mesh Laundry Baskets https://amzn.to/4c4OxY5 Compression Bags for Travel ( No Pump ) https://amzn.to/3A4TZgj Magnetic Hooks Heavy https://amzn.to/3yit0NE Magnetic Clips https://amzn.to/3LHTFq6 Cruise lanyards https://amzn.to/4fgJc2y Ship Cards ID Holder https://amzn.to/3yibWr7 Collapsible water bottles https://amzn.to/3WsXaWq Air tags https://amzn.to/3YjYjCo Cube Multi Plug Outlet Extender, Non Surge https://amzn.to/3Yk9HhC No surge power bar: https://amzn.to/46pvUwO Cruise Prep: Buy Our Faves, Mentioned or Not! Luggage tag holders: Royal Caribbean: https://amzn.to/3YoQjA1 NCL Luggage Tag https://amzn.to/4d4uRos
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Wednesday Sep 04, 2024

Join us on the Cruise Ship Explorers Podcast as we welcome Clark Reber, a seasoned Travel Industry Consultant with over 15 years of experience! Clark has a proven track record in leading sales and marketing strategies, team leadership, business planning, and event management in the travel industry. Tune in to hear his insights on the cruising world, industry trends, and expert advice for travelers. Don’t miss this episode with a true industry leader!Join The Cruise Ship Explorers Crew https://cruiseshipexplorers.com/join-us/

Wednesday Aug 28, 2024

Welcome to the latest episode of Cruise Ship Explorers! In this week's exciting interview, hosts Rachel and Mike sit down with special guest Robin Barrigas, who shares her fascinating cruise journey that began in 2022. Despite being new to the cruising world, Robin has quickly become an avid cruiser with numerous adventures to talk about.
Join us as Robin delves into her favorite cruise itineraries, including unforgettable destinations like St. Martin, St. Thomas, and Barbados. She recounts her experiences aboard various ships, particularly highlighting the Norwegian Joy and Viva, and offers valuable insights on family-friendly cruises, best excursions, and insider tips for first-time cruisers.
Tune in to discover how Robin navigates her cruises with her family, the must-visit spots in each port, and her strategies for finding the best cruise deals. Don't miss out on this informative and entertaining episode that promises to inspire your next cruise adventure!

Wednesday Aug 21, 2024

Ahoy, fellow adventurers! Welcome aboard the Cruise Ship Explorers Podcast, where we set sail into the captivating world of cruise ship stories. In this inaugural episode, we're thrilled to introduce you to the one and only DJ Knotz, a dynamic DJ who's been spinning tunes and navigating waves on some of the most iconic cruise ships out there. Get ready to dive into his fascinating journey from land gigs to life at sea, filled with behind-the-scenes stories, travel adventures, and insider tips on making the most of your cruising experience. So grab your life jacket and turntables, and let's embark on this musical voyage together!
Who in the World is DJ Knotz?
Alright, buckle up, landlubbers and sea dogs alike, as we're about to unravel the enigma wrapped in a riddle, encased in a vest that is DJ Knotz. Picture this: a DJ whose playlist might just be more diverse than the international buffet on deck. Jason, or as he's affectionately known behind the turntables, DJ Knotz, is a maestro of the music scene, whipping up beats and grooves that have passengers shimmying more than the ship on choppy seas.
But who is this pied piper of the party deck? Imagine someone who can turn a quiet lounge into the hottest club at sea before you can say "anchor's aweigh." That's DJ Knotz. With a past life that had him rocking events on terra firma, he's the guy who looked at the ocean and thought, "Yep, I want to drop the bass there." His transition from land gigs to becoming the heartbeat of cruise entertainment is less about him abandoning dry land and more about him seizing the opportunity to bring his electrifying performances to the high seas. A nomad in both spirit and profession, DJ Knotz is the personification of what happens when wanderlust meets a playlist.
This isn't your average "I played at my cousin's wedding and now I'm a DJ" story. No, sir. DJ Knotz comes armed with a repertoire that could make even the most reserved guest throw caution to the wind and bust a move. He's that rare breed of DJ who can make grandparents, teenagers, and everyone in between feel like the dance floor was made just for them.
But let's not pigeonhole him as just a party starter (although, make no mistake, he's got that title locked down). DJ Knotz is a sage of the soundboard, a connoisseur of beats per minute, and a wizard with a playlist. He’s a bridge between cultures, generations, and musical tastes, seamlessly blending tracks you’d never imagine in the same set. In essence, he's not just playing music; he's curating experiences, making memories, and perhaps most importantly, making sure that no one ever skips leg day on the dance floor.
So, who in the world is DJ Knotz? He's the unsung hero of your cruise vacation, the architect of your night out at sea, and quite possibly, the reason you'll need to take an extra day off work to recover from your holiday.
The Unlikely Journey from Land to Sea
Once upon a time in a world far, far away from the briny depths of the ocean, there was a DJ named Knotz who ruled the land-based dance floors with an iron turntable. His beats were legendary, his mixtapes were the stuff of urban folklore, and his ability to read a room was akin to a superhero's sixth sense. But even superheroes get bored. So, what does a DJ do when he's conquered every club, wedding reception, and bar mitzvah in sight? He looks to the horizon, where the sea meets the sky, and says, "Why not?"
Thus began the unlikely journey of DJ Knotz from terra firma to the bobbing and weaving world of cruise ships. It wasn't a decision made lightly. After all, swapping stable ground for the unpredictable sway of the sea is enough to make even the most seasoned sailor's stomach do flip-flops. But for Knotz, the call of adventure was too strong to resist. He traded in his roadie for a life jacket and set his sights on a new kind of gig—entertaining the masses aboard the floating cities known as cruise ships.
His first contract with NCL's Pride of America was a leap into the unknown. Gone were the days of predictable crowds and familiar faces. Now, every week brought a new set of passengers, each with their own musical tastes and vacation vibes. It was a DJ's challenge and dream rolled into one. But as he spun his tracks under the starlit sky, surrounded by the vastness of the ocean, DJ Knotz knew he'd made the right choice.
The journey wasn't all smooth sailing, of course. There were the initial seasickness woes, the bewildering maze of corridors below deck, and the realization that Wi-Fi isn't quite as omnipresent as oxygen. Yet, with each challenge came an opportunity to grow, to adapt, and to master the art of being a cruise ship DJ.
And just when you thought our hero had settled into his new sea legs, the plot thickens. Knotz is now preparing to embark on an even grander adventure as an entertainment host with Disney Cruise Lines. It's a role that promises new challenges, new experiences, and, undoubtedly, new stories to tell. From landlubber to seafaring entertainer, DJ Knotz's journey is a testament to the power of following one's compass, no matter how unconventional the course.
Life Jackets and Turntables: The Real Story
Picture this: you're DJ Knotz, master of beats, conqueror of the dance floor, and suddenly, you're also... a fledgling firefighter? Yep, that's right. Before our hero could even think about dropping the bass on the high seas, he had to learn how to drop, roll, and douse flames like a pro. Talk about a mixtape nobody saw coming! But that's the real story behind the turntables and life jackets. It's not just about knowing your BPMs; it's about mastering the ABCs of ship safety too.
Now, imagine swapping your spacious bedroom for a cabin the size of a postage stamp, where the luxury of privacy becomes as rare as a quiet night on deck. Our plucky DJ found himself in this very scenario, navigating the tight quarters that would make a minimalist weep with joy. And meal arrangements? Forget the romantic notion of dining under the stars every night. Picture instead a culinary journey that's more cafeteria chic than gourmet gala, where the crew mess is the hottest ticket in town.
But let's not forget the leisure activities. On paper, it sounds like a perpetual vacation - sun, sea, and endless fun. In reality, it's a bit like finding a quiet corner in Times Square on New Year's Eve. For DJ Knotz, downtime became about mastering the art of doing nothing without losing your mind, all while bobbing on an ocean that doesn't care about your Spotify playlist.
Yet, amid these tales of firefighting drills and cabin fever, our DJ discovered a rhythm to life at sea that went beyond the turntables. It's a story of adaptation, where every challenge is a beat to mix into the soundtrack of ship life. From learning the ship's labyrinthine layout to finding that sweet spot for Wi-Fi to phone home, it's the untold remix of a cruise ship DJ's life.
So, while the crowds might think it's all smooth sailing with champagne sunsets, DJ Knotz knows better. It's about keeping the party going, even when you're secretly plotting the most epic nap of your life. In the world of cruise ship entertainment, life jackets and turntables spin together in a unique harmony that only those who've lived it can truly understand.
A Day in the Life of DJ Knotz
Ever wonder what it’s like to wake up and realize your office is a massive floating party? Well, strap in, because DJ Knotz is about to give us a spin through his not-so-average day aboard a cruise ship. Spoiler alert: it involves more than just pressing play on a tropical playlist and sipping piña coladas by the pool.
Our day starts with DJ Knotz, emerging from the depths of his cabin—a space so cozy, you’d think it was designed by a minimalist who took their philosophy way too seriously. First order of business? Coffee, the elixir of life, especially when your workplace spans several time zones in a single week.
After fuelling up, it’s time for some “me time”—and by that, we mean checking emails, scrolling through the latest memes, and maybe squeezing in a quick call home. Wi-Fi on a cruise ship can be as elusive as an empty deck chair on sea day, so it’s a race against time and bandwidth.
Next up: prep time. DJ Knotz doesn’t just show up and hit play. Oh no, there’s a science to setting the vibe. He’s part technician, part magician, checking his equipment, updating his playlists, and scouting the venue. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon set by the pool or the pulsing neon lights of the nightclub, every performance is a new adventure.
As the sun sets, the real show begins. DJ Knotz transforms from mild-mannered crew member to the king of the cruise ship’s nightlife. He navigates through genres and eras, reading the crowd like a book, and keeping the energy up, up, up. Requests? Bring 'em on. He’s got the skills to spin anything from the Electric Slide to EDM, ensuring grandma and the twenty-somethings are all tearing up the dance floor together.
But what about after the party? When the last track fades and the lights come on? Well, our hero doesn’t turn into a pumpkin. There’s equipment to pack down, a quick debrief with the entertainment team, and maybe, just maybe, a late-night snack before heading back to that oh-so-cozy cabin.
So, there you have it—a day in the life of DJ Knotz, where every day is a new destination, every setlist is a journey, and the only constant is change. And coffee. Lots and lots of coffee.
The Mental Gymnastics of Sea Life
Imagine, if you will, living in a world where the sun never sets on the same horizon twice, where your bedroom sways like a hammock caught in a gentle breeze, and your closest confidante is a seagull with an attitude. Welcome to the mental Olympics of sea life, a place where DJ Knotz not only spins records but also juggles the complexities of mental health and staying connected in a WiFi desert more barren than your fridge before payday.
Staying afloat in this environment isn't just about mastering the art of not walking sideways during rough seas; it's about navigating the choppy waters of isolation, homesickness, and the occasional existential crisis. You see, when DJ Knotz isn't dropping beats that make the ocean jealous of his flow, he's perfecting the art of mental gymnastics. Picture him, headphones in one hand, self-help book in the other, doing backflips over feelings of disconnection faster than you can say "missed port call."
And how does one stay mentally buoyant when the nearest therapist is a thousand nautical miles away? Well, DJ Knotz has developed a cocktail of coping mechanisms as potent as the ship's signature drink. There’s the art of making friends with the horizon, treating sunsets like therapy sessions, and learning that sometimes, the best way to feel connected is to simply gaze at the stars and remember that everyone you love is under that same vast sky.
But let’s not sugarcoat the pill – or the sea pill, in this case. It takes more than good vibes and starry nights to navigate the solitude. DJ Knotz, in his infinite wisdom, has turned his cabin into a zen den, where meditation and mindfulness spill out with the ease of a sea breeze. He’s also become a pen pal extraordinaire, because nothing says "I'm thinking of you" like a postcard sent from the middle of the Pacific.
So, as DJ Knotz teaches us, the mental gymnastics of sea life are less about sticking the perfect landing and more about learning to enjoy the routine, finding balance on a moving deck, and occasionally, doing it all with a seagull perched on your shoulder.
The Crowd-Pleasers and Party Starters
Let’s dive headfirst into the neon-drenched, bass-pumping heart of cruise ship life, shall we? This is where our hero, DJ Knotz, transforms from mild-mannered music maestro into the pied piper of the Lido Deck. But this isn’t just about spinning records and watching the crowd go wild (though, let’s be real, there’s plenty of that). It’s about mastering the fine art of party alchemy, mixing the perfect blend of beats to brew a potion that has everyone from toddlers to octogenarians shaking their tail feathers.
Now, imagine the scene: The sun’s dipped below the horizon, the stars are out, and there’s a palpable buzz in the air. The deck’s awash with a kaleidoscope of colorful lights, and there, at the center of it all, is DJ Knotz, headphones on, a grin spread wide across his face. He’s not just playing music; he’s curating a soundtrack for memories that’ll last longer than that temporary tattoo you got after one too many margaritas.
But what’s his secret recipe for keeping the dance floor more packed than a lifeboat drill? It’s a potent mix of intuition, experience, and a sprinkle of magic. He reads the room like a book – a really loud book, where everyone’s wearing Hawaiian shirts and flip-flops. Got a request for a song that hasn’t seen the light of day since your high school prom? DJ Knotz is on it, seamlessly weaving it into a setlist that’s as unpredictable as the ocean itself.
Navigating the waves of musical tastes, he’s like a captain steering through a storm, expertly avoiding the icebergs of party faux pas and the doldrums of a bored crowd. Whether it’s the latest TikTok viral hit or a golden oldie, he’s got the track that’ll make you say, “Just one more song,” until suddenly, it’s 2 AM, and you’re wondering how on earth you’re going to make that 8 AM snorkeling excursion.
In short, DJ Knotz doesn’t just start parties; he’s the heart, soul, and slightly sweaty face of them. And in the world of cruise ship entertainment, where the next party is always just around the corner, that’s no small feat. So, here’s to the crowd-pleasers and party starters – the unsung heroes who make sure your cruise vacation is nothing short of epic.
Off-Duty Adventures: Hawaiian Edition
Let's whisk away from the turntables and dive into DJ Knotz's off-duty escapades, Hawaiian style. Picture this: you've just docked in paradise, and who better to guide you through the lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters than our very own beat-dropping, island-hopping connoisseur? Forget about those tourist traps; DJ Knotz is here to spill the real tea on how to live it up in Hawaii, without turning your wallet into an endangered species.
First stop, Honolulu – where the surf meets the turf and the nightlife dances with the waves. DJ Knotz swaps his DJ booth for a surfboard, showing us that the only thing better than a good beat is a great wave. He's all about those hidden gems, like that hole-in-the-wall serving up poke bowls so fresh, you'd think the fish just jumped out of the sea and into your dish. And if you think Diamond Head is just another pretty face in the crowd of tourist checklists, think again. DJ Knotz knows a spot where the view will knock your flip-flops off – minus the selfie stick-wielding hordes.
Next up, Maui, where the vibe is as chill as the pineapple smoothies. Ever heard of a beach where the sand isn't just golden but practically glows with the setting sun? Well, DJ Knotz has, and he’s not shy about leading the way. He's all about those early morning hikes through the bamboo forests, chasing waterfalls that promise a splash of serenity. And when the stars come out, you'll find him at a seaside luau, where the fire dancers are hot, but the local brews are even hotter.
So, there you have it – a peek into DJ Knotz's Hawaiian playbook. It's not just about where to go but how to soak in every moment, turning those off-duty hours into adventures that rival any night behind the decks. With DJ Knotz as your guide, Hawaii isn't just a destination; it's a journey where the beats are as endless as the horizon.
Navigating Deals on the High Seas
All right, savvy savers and penny-pinching pirates, gather around as we chart a course through the treacherous waters of cruise ship deals, where the waves of expenses can be as daunting as a kraken but fear not! We're here to unfurl the sails of savings and navigate through the fog of financial folly without capsizing your wallet.
First off, let's talk timing – it's everything, not just in comedy, but in snagging cruise deals too. Booking either super early or last minute can be like finding a treasure chest in the depths of the deep blue sea. Early birds can catch the worm of early booking discounts, while procrastinators can swoop in on last-minute deals that are so hot, they sizzle louder than the ship's deck on a sunny day.
Next, we'll steer towards the uncharted territory of repositioning cruises. These are the nomads of the sea, moving from one region to another, often at a fraction of the cost. Sure, they might take a bit longer, but think of them as the scenic route – with plenty of onboard credits and amenities thrown in as a bonus.
And let's not forget about cabin choice. Inside cabins, while lacking the view of a royal suite, are the unsung heroes for the budget-conscious traveler. They're cozy, they're comfortable, and most importantly, they're cheap. It's like flying economy class, but with better food and a chance of seeing a dolphin.
Lastly, keep an eye out for package deals and onboard credits. These can be the lifeboats of savings in a sea of expenses, offering drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions at a bundle price that won’t have you walking the plank of financial despair.
So, there you have it, me hearties. With a little savvy and a lot of looking, cruising on a budget isn’t just possible; it’s a breeze. Now, go forth and conquer those high seas deals like the budget-savvy explorer you are!

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