What happens when an 18-year-old cruise superfan books one of the most talked-about suites on Wonder of the Seas—and then quietly “hacks” his way into an even more luxurious experience? In this episode, Krystal chats with Hollis from Ship Insider about his stay in a one-bedroom Grand Suite, his love for nautical design, and how he layered Sky Class with The Key to unlock private experiences most guests never realize exist.
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.
🚢 Inside Suite 1750:
The viral Deck 17 Grand Suite with a dramatic 25-ft hallway, a half-covered balcony, floor-to-ceiling glass, and incredible views over the pool deck and ocean.
🎧 Living Above the Bass:
What it’s really like staying behind the main subwoofers—and why it didn’t stop Hollis from loving the room.
⭐ Sky Class Perks:
Priority boarding, Coastal Kitchen, a private sun deck with pool + hot tub, concierge services, and reserved show seating.
🔑 Sky Class + The Key = Genius:
How Hollis unlocked private FlowRider and activity sessions normally packed with long lines.
🍽️ Coastal Kitchen Excellence:
The fastest, most reliable service he’s ever experienced at sea—plus snacks worth sneaking back to the room.
⚓ Captain Connection:
A chance breakfast conversation turns into a personal bridge tour for a future cruise-ship captain.
🛳️ Wonder vs. Navigator:
Bigger doesn’t always mean better—but Wonder delivers with food, service, and modern touches.
🛁 NCL Haven vs. Sky Class:
Why Haven’s pool is dreamy… but Wonder still wins for overall vibe.
🧭 Dream Itineraries:
Alaska on a Voyager-class ship, a transatlantic crossing, and a return to the Panama Canal.
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
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
📧 Email: luxurycruisingpodcast@gmail.com
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/krystalsodaitis
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