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Rope Drop: On Deck - A Cruise News and Planning Podcast

Advertise on podcast: Rope Drop: On Deck - A Cruise News and Planning Podcast

Rating
★★★★★
4.7
from
162 reviews
This podcast has
148 episodes
Language
English
Explicit
No
Date created
2022/11/15
Latest episode
2026/10/13
Average duration
42 min.
Release period
18 days

Description

Join us On Deck as we cover Cruise News, Planning, Trip Reports, and More. We will sail from Royal to Disney to Norwegian. With Michelle McKnight of Touring and Cruises Travel and Doug McKnight of Rope Drop Radio.

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Check latest episodes from Rope Drop: On Deck - A Cruise News and Planning Podcast podcast


Disney Believe Revealed! Everything We Know About Disney's Newest Cruise Ship
2026/10/13
Disney Cruise Line has revealed what's coming aboard the Disney Believe, and there are some exciting new experiences on the way! From the first-ever Encanto stage show to a Moana-inspired Grand Hall and a brand-new Frozen dining experience, Doug and Michelle break down the newest Disney Cruise Line ship and what future cruisers have to look forward to. RDOD — Disney Believe Revealed! Everything We Know About Disney Cruise Line's Newest Ship A new Disney Cruise Line ship is on the horizon! This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle dive into the big reveal of the Disney Believe, which is scheduled to begin sailing on December 18, 2027, from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The fourth ship in Disney's Wish class promises a mix of brand-new experiences and familiar Disney Cruise Line favorites. We're looking at the entertainment, dining, lounges, themed spaces, and other features that have us excited about this addition to the fleet. 🎧 Listen to Rope Drop On Deck Ready to start planning your next Disney Cruise? Contact Michelle at [email protected] Follow @RopeDropOnDeck on social media and check out RopeDropPod.com for more Disney Parks and cruise content. Check out Tours on Viator 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising  🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Disney Cruise Line 2027-28 Itineraries Are HERE! New York Is BACK!
2026/08/26
Disney Cruise Line just dropped its Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 itineraries—and New York City is BACK! Doug, Michelle, and Joe from Back to the Mouse break down the biggest announcements, the best-looking itineraries, and why Florida is about to become an even bigger Disney Cruise hub. RDOD — Disney Cruise Line Fall 2027 & Spring 2028 Itineraries Are HERE! The wait is over! Disney Cruise Line has released its Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 cruise itineraries, and there is a LOT to talk about. This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle are joined by Joe from Back to the Mouse to break down the new Disney Cruise Line schedule and figure out which sailings deserve your attention. And there's one announcement that immediately caught everyone's attention: Disney Cruise Line is returning to New York City! The Disney Wish will spend part of Fall 2027 sailing from New York, including voyages to Bermuda, New England and Atlantic Canada. But New York isn't the only big story. 🗽 Disney Is Back in New York! We discuss: The return of Disney Cruise Line to New York The Disney Wish's Bermuda sailings New England and Canada itineraries Why fall could be an incredible time to cruise from New York Whether we'd choose New York over a warm-weather sailing ☀️ Florida Gets Even More Disney Cruise Options There's plenty happening in Florida too. The Disney Destiny will homeport at Port Canaveral for the first time, offering three- to seven-night Bahamas and Western Caribbean cruises. The Disney Wish will also return to Port Canaveral after its New York and San Juan seasons. 🌴 San Juan Gets More Disney Love Disney is also expanding opportunities to sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico, including Southern and Eastern Caribbean itineraries. We look at whether San Juan could be an underrated option for Disney cruisers looking for something different. 🚢 Panama Canal Adventures The Disney Magic will take on two 14-night Panama Canal repositioning cruises, including new port calls at Fuerte Amador and Colón. Could one of these be the ultimate bucket-list Disney cruise? 🌎 And There's More! Disney's official itinerary announcement includes departures from New York, Vancouver, San Diego, Galveston, San Juan, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral, plus continued Singapore sailings aboard the Disney Adventure. 📅 When Can You Book? Disney Cruise Line announced that early booking for eligible Castaway Club members begins August 31, 2026, with general booking opening September 8, 2026. If you're considering one of these new itineraries, this is definitely an episode to listen to before booking day. 🎧 Listen to Rope Drop On Deck Ready to start planning your next Disney Cruise? Contact Michelle at [email protected] Follow @RopeDropOnDeck on social media and check out RopeDropPod.com for more Disney Parks and cruise content. Check out Tours on Viator 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising  🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Santorini, Rhodes & Turkey: Norwegian Viva Trip Report Part 2
2026/08/04
Ancient ruins, medieval cities, iconic blue domes, and an unforgettable overnight stay in Istanbul—Part 2 of our Norwegian Viva Mediterranean cruise might have been the highlight of the entire trip. Join us as we share our favorite ports, excursions, and travel tips from the second half of our 10-night adventure. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle wrap up their 10-night Norwegian Viva Mediterranean cruise trip report by diving into the second half of the itinerary. From walking the remarkably preserved streets of Ephesus in Turkey to wandering the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, chasing the famous blue domes of Santorini, and spending an unforgettable overnight in Istanbul, this episode is packed with destination highlights, excursion reviews, and practical planning tips. If you're considering a Mediterranean cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line—or any cruise line sailing this region—these ports deserve a spot on your bucket list. In This Episode 🇹🇷 Kuşadası, Turkey Why we booked a private Ephesus tour Skip-the-line admission Walking through one of the world's best-preserved ancient cities Why a private tour was worth it Cruise-friendly timing and guaranteed return to the ship 🏰 Rhodes, Greece Walking off the ship and exploring on our own Touring the incredible medieval Old Town Why we spent $0 in port Hidden streets, history, and one of our favorite DIY port days 🇬🇷 Santorini, Greece Private Blue Domes Tour with Project Expedition Visiting the iconic viewpoints Tips for navigating one of the busiest cruise ports Why Santorini lives up to the hype 🌉 Istanbul, Türkiye Our overnight stay allowed us to experience even more of this incredible city. Highlights included: Bosphorus Yacht Cruise Visiting both the European and Asian sides of the city Historic neighborhoods and incredible views Exploring beyond the typical cruise stop Our old city tour with Brit and Berat - They also did our Airport Transfer! Our guided Old Town experience Airport transfer tips Staying at the YOTEL inside Istanbul Airport before flying home Mediterranean Cruise Tips Private tours can provide incredible value and flexibility. Book popular excursions well before your cruise. Some ports, like Rhodes, are perfect for exploring independently. Comfortable shoes are essential—you'll walk more than you think! Overnight ports give you a completely different perspective of a destination. Our Final Thoughts on the Ports This second half of our Norwegian Viva itinerary featured some of the most memorable destinations we've ever visited. Whether you love ancient history, breathtaking scenery, or experiencing different cultures, this itinerary delivered unforgettable moments at every stop. Check out Tours on Viator 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising  🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
The Ports Trip Report: Venice, Dubrovnik, Montenegro, Athens Greece.
2026/07/28
RDOD — Our Norwegian Viva Mediterranean Trip Report (Part 1): Venice to Athens 🔥 Teaser (Apple Podcasts Optimized) From an early morning in St. Mark's Basilica to walking the ancient walls of Dubrovnik and standing atop the Acropolis in Athens, our 10-night Norwegian Viva cruise was filled with unforgettable ports. In Part 1 of our trip report, we're sharing our favorite excursions, travel tips, hotels, and everything you need to know before cruising the Mediterranean. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle kick off the first installment of their 10-night Norwegian Viva Mediterranean cruise trip report. This episode focuses on the first half of the vacation, covering the ports, hotels, excursions, and travel logistics before and during the cruise. We discuss spending time in Venice, embarking from Ravenna, walking the famous city walls in Dubrovnik, exploring Stari Bar in Montenegro, and finishing with an unforgettable day in Athens, including an early visit to the Acropolis. If you're planning a Mediterranean cruise—or just dreaming about one—this episode is full of practical tips and firsthand experiences. In This Episode ✈️ Pre-Cruise in Venice Staying at Hotel Al Sole Why we chose Venice before the cruise Exploring the canals and city 🏛️ Venice Excursion Early entry to St. Mark's Basilica Touring Doge's Palace Exclusive terrace views over St. Mark's Square Why arriving early made all the difference 🚢 Embarkation in Ravenna Staying at Hotel Mosaico Easy transfer to the cruise port??? Boarding the Norwegian Viva 🇭🇷 Dubrovnik, Croatia Walking the famous city walls Admission costs (€40) Incredible views of the Adriatic Tips for visiting Old Town 🇲🇪 Bar, Montenegro Taxi to Stari Barr Exploring the historic town Relaxing at the beach Why this port pleasantly surprised us 🇬🇷 Athens, Greece 8:00 a.m. entry to the Acropolis Why early tickets are worth it Jewelry-making workshop with a local artisan Using the Free Now app for transportation Favorite moments in one of the world's oldest cities 📖 Word of the Day Port Of Call— brought to you by Back to the Mouse 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising  🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Norwegian Viva Trip Report: Food, Shows, Go Karts & More!
2026/07/21
Was our first 10-night cruise on the Norwegian Viva everything we hoped it would be? 🚢 From sailing out of Ravenna, Italy, to entertainment, incredible dining, and our honest thoughts after 10 nights onboard, we're sharing everything you need to know before booking a Norwegian Viva cruise. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle are back from an unforgettable 10-night cruise aboard the Norwegian Viva, and we're giving you our complete trip report! We cover every part of the experience—from flights to Italy and embarking in Ravenna to the cabin, dining, drink package, entertainment, and onboard activities. We also share what surprised us most, what we'd do differently, and whether the Norwegian Viva lives up to the hype. If you've been considering Norwegian Cruise Line, planning a Mediterranean cruise, or wondering how the Viva compares to Disney Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean, this episode is packed with firsthand tips and honest opinions. 📖 Word of the Day Jet Lag— brought to you by Back to the Mouse 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising  🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Disney Fantasy Girls Trip Report
2026/06/30
The McKnight girls set sail on the Disney Fantasy for 4 nights! Listen to all their adventures. 📖 Word of the Day Castaway— brought to you by Back to the Mouse 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising  🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Sailing the Greek Islands with National Geographic: Lauren's Adventure
2026/06/23
What's it like to sail the Greek Islands aboard a National Geographic expedition ship? Lauren Shields from Rope Drop Radio joins us to share her incredible journey through Greece, exploring stunning islands, unique excursions, and a style of cruising that's very different from the mega-ships most of us know. RDOD – Greek Islands Cruise Trip Report with Lauren Shields This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle welcome Lauren Shields from Rope Drop Radio to discuss her recent Greek Islands cruise aboard a National Geographic expedition ship. From picturesque villages and crystal-clear waters to immersive cultural experiences and small-ship exploration, Lauren shares what made this cruise unlike any other she's taken. We discuss the ship, the ports, the excursions, the food, and whether expedition-style cruising could be the perfect fit for travelers looking for a more intimate and destination-focused experience. If Greece is on your bucket list—or you're curious about expedition cruising—this episode is packed with firsthand insights and inspiration. 📖 Word of the Day Archipelago— brought to you by Back to the Mouse 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising  🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Do's and Don'ts of Alaska Cruising
2026/06/15
Planning an Alaska cruise? Before you pack your bags, make sure you know these essential do's and don'ts! 🐋🏔️ From whale watching and glacier days to packing mistakes and excursion planning, we're sharing the tips that can make or break your Alaska cruise vacation. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle tackle one of cruising's most popular bucket-list destinations: Alaska. Whether you're sailing on Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, or another cruise line, Alaska is unlike any other cruise destination. The scenery is breathtaking, the wildlife is incredible, and the planning can be very different from a Caribbean sailing. We're sharing our favorite Alaska cruise do's and don'ts to help you make the most of your adventure. From packing and excursions to glacier viewing and wildlife spotting, this episode is packed with practical advice for first-time and returning Alaska cruisers alike. If Alaska is on your cruise wish list, this is an episode you'll want to save for later. 📖 Word of the Day Breaching — brought to you by Back to the Mouse When a whale launches itself out of the water and crashes back into the ocean. One of the most spectacular sights you might witness on an Alaska cruise! 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising  🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Disney Fans Try Norwegian? Our Next Cruise Revealed!
2026/06/09
This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle pull back the curtain on their next cruise adventure: a 10-night sailing aboard the Norwegian Viva. Why Norwegian? Why the Viva? And why a 10-night itinerary instead of a shorter cruise? We break down the decision-making process, what ultimately convinced us to book, and the experiences we're looking forward to most. From dining and entertainment to the itinerary and unique features onboard, we're discussing what caught our attention and what we're hoping to learn as we branch out and try something new. Whether you're considering Norwegian Cruise Line for the first time or you're simply curious about the Viva, this episode is a fun look at how experienced cruisers choose their next vacation. In This Episode 🚢 Why We Chose This Cruise What sparked the idea of booking the Norwegian Viva Why a 10-night cruise appealed to us How it compared to other options we considered 🌎 The Itinerary What destinations we'll be visiting Why this route stood out What we're most excited to see 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] Check out Back to the Mouse.com for all the latest in Disney Cruising  🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Adults-Only Disney Cruise + Concierge — Trip Report on Disney Fantasy with Lauren!
2026/05/05
What happens when you combine an adults-only getaway with concierge-level luxury on a Disney Cruise? 🚢✨ Lauren from Rope Drop Radio joins us to share her first-ever concierge experience aboard the Disney Fantasy—and whether it's truly worth the upgrade. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle welcome Lauren from Rope Drop Radio to talk about her recent 4-night Disney Fantasy cruise—with a twist: this was an adults-only sailing AND her first time staying concierge. Lauren walks us through the entire experience, from priority boarding and exclusive lounge access to elevated dining, stateroom perks, and what concierge really adds to a Disney Cruise. We also dive into what it's like sailing Disney without kids, how the Fantasy holds up, and whether concierge is worth the cost for your next cruise. If you've ever debated upgrading to concierge or taking a kid-free Disney cruise, this episode is packed with real-world insight. In This Episode 🚢 Why This Cruise? Why Lauren chose a 4-night Disney Fantasy sailing Adults-only decision and expectations First time trying concierge 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Is a Panama Canal Disney Cruise Worth It? Joe from Back to the Mouse Shares All
2026/04/28
What's it really like to sail through the Panama Canal on a Disney ship? 🚢🌎 Joe from Back to the Mouse joins us to break down his epic two-week Panama Canal cruise on the Disney Magic, from the legendary canal crossing to unique ports, sea days, and why this bucket-list sailing is unlike any other Disney cruise. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle welcome Joe from BackToTheMouse.com to talk about one of Disney Cruise Line's most iconic itineraries — a Panama Canal cruise aboard the Disney Magic. Joe shares a full trip report from this extraordinary two-week sailing, including what makes a repositioning cruise special, what it's like transiting the Panama Canal, how the long sailing differs from a traditional Disney cruise, and why many cruisers consider this a bucket-list voyage. From canal crossing day to unique port stops, extra sea days, entertainment, food, and onboard atmosphere, this episode is packed with practical insight and cruise dreaming. If you've ever wondered whether a Panama Canal sailing is worth the time and money — don't miss this one. 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Disney Destiny Trip Report with Lauren from Rope Drop Radio
2026/03/31
RDOD — Lauren's Disney Destiny Sailing Trip Report 🔥 Teaser (Apple Podcasts Optimized) Fresh off the Disney Destiny, Lauren joins Rope Drop On Deck to share what it was really like onboard Disney Cruise Line's newest ship. From first impressions and dining to shows, lounges, and whether it lives up to the hype, this trip report is packed with firsthand insight. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle welcome Lauren from Rope Drop Radio to talk all about her recent sailing on the Disney Destiny. Lauren shares her full trip report, from the excitement of boarding Disney Cruise Line's newest ship to the standout moments that made this sailing special. We dive into the stateroom, dining, entertainment, ship vibe, and how the Destiny compares to other Disney ships. If you've been wondering whether the Disney Destiny is worth booking—or just want to hear what a seasoned Disney traveler thought—this episode is full of practical takeaways, honest reactions, and plenty of cruise excitement. 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Breaking Down the Disney Believe Announcement with Alex Cenac
2026/03/24
It's official — Disney Cruise Line has revealed its newest ship: the Disney Destiny. 🚢✨ What does the name mean? What can we expect onboard? And how will it compare to the Wish and Treasure? Alex Cenac joins Doug to break it all down. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug is joined by Alex Cenac to react to the exciting announcement of Disney Cruise Line's newest ship — the Disney Destiny. From the meaning behind the name to what it could signal about theming, entertainment, dining, and overall vibe, we dive into everything we know (and what we're predicting) about this highly anticipated addition to the Disney fleet. We also compare the Destiny to other Wish-class ships and discuss how Disney continues to evolve its cruise experience. If you're a Disney Cruise Line fan or planning a future sailing, this episode gives you an early look at what might be coming next. 📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
River Cruising at Christmas: Joe Chung's Holiday ABD Trip Report
2026/02/17
Twinkling Christmas markets. Snow-dusted villages. Mulled wine in hand. 🎄🚢 This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Joe Chung of Disney Deciphered joins us to share his unforgettable Christmas markets Adventures By Disney river cruise and why river cruising might be the most magical vacation you've never considered. Episode Summary This week, Doug and Michelle welcome Joe Chung to Rope Drop On Deck for a special episode all about his Christmas markets river cruise experience. If you've ever wondered how river cruising compares to ocean cruising — especially during the holiday season — this episode helps break it all down. Joe shares his cruising background, why he chose a Christmas markets itinerary, what surprised him most, and how river cruise excursions differ from traditional ocean sailings. From intimate ships and festive dining to immersive European port experiences, we explore why river cruising may be the perfect adults-focused getaway. Whether you're a seasoned ocean cruiser curious about something new or dreaming of a cozy holiday sailing, this episode is packed with helpful insight. In This Episode Welcome Word of the Day Stern — brought to you by BackToTheMouse.com   📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊
Adults Only Cruising — 5 Reasons Why
2026/02/03
Thinking about leaving the kids at home for your next cruise? 🚢 Sailing without the family doesn't mean you have to book Virgin — Disney and Royal Caribbean might surprise you. This week we break down five powerful reasons to cruise as adults only, and why it might be the most relaxing vacation you've taken in years. Episode Summary This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle dive into a topic more and more cruisers are curious about — adult-only cruising on family-friendly cruise lines. You don't have to sail on an adults-only brand to enjoy a peaceful, elevated getaway. Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both offer incredible experiences for couples and friend groups traveling without kids. From relaxing adult-only spaces to adventurous excursions and elevated dining, we share five big reasons why leaving the kids at home might be exactly what you need. If you've ever wondered whether a Disney or Royal cruise is worth it without children — this episode is for you. In This Episode Word of the Day Port — brought to you by BackToTheMouse.com 📰 Cruise News A local judge suspends work on Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day Mexico development in Costa Maya Royal Caribbean officially orders new Discovery Class cruise ships New Norwegian Cruise Line air policy update   📱 Follow Rope Drop On Deck: Instagram: @RopeDropOnDeck Facebook: Rope Drop On Deck Threads: @RopeDropOnDeck Twitter/X: @RopeDropOnDeck Stay in the loop for bonus cruise content, updates, and behind-the-scenes fun. More of Michelle More of Doug If you want to book a cruise reach out to Michelle at [email protected] 🎧 Also check out our sister podcast: Rope Drop Radio – your source for Disney Parks planning tips and reviews! Thanks for sailing with us—until next time, happy cruising! ⚓🌊

Podcast reviews

Read Rope Drop: On Deck - A Cruise News and Planning Podcast podcast reviews


4.7 out of 5
162 reviews
★★★★★
CarlyN28 2026/08/04
Maybe I need to go to Europe now?!?!
I first must confess I'm not a big fan of Disney cruises. I've tried, but it's just not my thing. Why so many lines? Why don't they have the buffet...
★★★★★
LeahBelle22 2026/07/06
Fun show!
Informative show with great banter, honest takes, and lots of tips. The mix of DCL and other cruise lines is very helpful, especially for those who h...
★★★★★
RansomFam4 2026/07/02
The best info for DCL and more!
I have been a rope drop radio listener for a couple years and never thought we’d do a family cruise, as I tend to get seasick. Last year when my kids ...
★★★★★
FierceHusker 2026/06/30
Warning: May Cause Spontaneous Cruise Booking
The perfect podcast for anyone who wants cruise advice without feeling like they accidentally sat through a timeshare presentation. Doug and Michelle ...
★★★★★
kjelly809 2026/02/17
5 Star Review
Great content and appreciate discussing all cruise lines! Would love an Alaska packing episode!
★★★★★
JacobsonFive 2025/12/09
Come for the news, tips, and laughs.
I’ve been listening for awhile and am still putting up with you! I love listening to stay up-to-date with cruise news and for the combination of pract...
★★★★★
TaylorH7575 2025/10/15
Great show!
I really enjoy the show! There’s a lot of good info, and it’s really entertaining :). However, the ads are much louder than the content; it’s a bit o...
★★★★★
Russ sails DCL 2025/09/10
Great Listen
Great show, they make you feel as part of the family with the kids and sports events that occurred in between shows. The show has a great balance of e...
★★★★★
amceomaha 2025/08/18
Must and Enjoyable Listen with Accurate Info
There is a lot of info on the web, but as you experience a cruise and really learn about Disney, you realize a lot of it is just plain wrong or repeat...
★☆☆☆☆
AshiGaruma 2025/07/12
Good
I enjoy Doug’s interviewing style- informative and entertaining.
check all reviews on apple podcasts

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