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New to Cruising?
First voyage? We've got you covered with everything you need to know — from booking to disembarkation.
Start Here: First Cruise GuideWelcome aboard
The calmest seas are found in another's wake.
Looking for cruise planning help? In the Wake offers practical tools, ship comparisons, dining guides, and real-voyage insights to help you plan smoother sailings — independent of cruise lines, built for travelers like you.
Mariners know a small truth with big comfort
The calmest water lies in the wake of another boat. Tuck in behind a steady hull and the chop softens, the course steadies, and the hard parts feel easier. In the Wake exists to be that smooth water for your cruise planning.
We sail ahead—collecting real-world details from actual voyages—so you can follow with confidence. Compare ships and classes, scan menus and prices, scout cabins, and spot accessibility notes without all the whitecaps. The goal isn't to sell you anything; it's to take the friction out of decisions so your trip feels effortless. Fair winds—and gentler seas—in our wake.
What are you planning?
Choose your path — we'll point you to the most helpful resources.
Planning Tools
Interactive calculators and guides — free, no account required.
Ships
How to choose the right class and layout for your style — quiet corners, promenades, and where to watch the wake roll.
Ports
What to expect pier-side, easy do-it-yourself plans, and how to make the most of short stays without rushing the day.
Restaurants & Menus
Main dining, casual bites, and specialty rooms — menus, reservations, and how to eat well without over-planning.
Travel
Practical tips for airports, transfers, packing, and sea-day rhythm — from embark to last sunrise at sea.
Planning
Find your footing fast: itineraries, timing, and budget choices that keep your voyage simple and your days unhurried.
About Us
Who we are and why we sail: the people behind the logbook, and how to get in touch when you're planning your voyage.
Planning for...
Special resources for travelers with specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is In the Wake?
In the Wake is a cruise planning resource offering free tools, ship comparisons, dining guides, and accessibility information — primarily focused on Royal Caribbean but expanding to other lines. Created by cruisers, for cruisers, with no affiliate sales.
Is In the Wake affiliated with any cruise line?
No. We're independent travelers sharing real-voyage insights. We don't sell cruises, earn commissions, or represent any cruise line. Our goal is honest, helpful information.
What tools does In the Wake offer?
We provide a drink package calculator, ship comparison database, restaurant menus and pricing, stateroom check tool, packing lists, and accessibility guides — all free and constantly updated from real cruises.
How current is the information?
We update pages after each sailing and review all content quarterly. Ship details, menus, and prices can change—always verify critical information with your cruise line before booking.
Who runs In the Wake?
In the Wake is founded and maintained by Ken Baker, a pastor, photographer, and cruise enthusiast with years of experience at sea. Learn more on our About page.
Works Offline on Your Cruise
Ship Wi-Fi is expensive and unreliable. That's why In the Wake works offline as an installable app on your phone or tablet.
How it works: Visit our port guides and ship pages before you sail. They'll be cached automatically and available without internet—right when you need them at the pier.
On mobile, tap "Add to Home Screen" in your browser menu. On desktop, look for the install icon in your address bar.