Every cruise ship has a place passengers fall in love with, and mine might surprise you

Carnival recently announced the withdrawal of two ships, Carnival Adventure and Luminosa, from Australia in March 2028. The saddest part - especially so soon after the closure of P&O - is that people have lost their home away from home.

For many Australians, these ships offer more than the cheapest holidays at sea. They are familiar territory, where crew treat you like royalty, other passengers become friends and you have your favourite spots onboard. Losing a ship can mean losing a family tradition, a community or your happy place.

When I travel for a second time with a cruise line, I head straight to the place I most enjoyed on my first voyage. On Cunard ships, others would say the iconic venue is the ballroom, with its high ceilings, grand dancefloor, afternoon tea and Queens Room Orchestra. I prefer the Golden Lion pub for its warmer, sociable atmosphere.

On Oceania, let me read a book in front of the faux fireplace in the library. On Viking, plant me in the Wintergarden until we reach some scenery, best viewed from the Explorers Lounge. On Regent Seven Seas, I could sit for hours on Sette Mari's aft terrace, watching the ocean churn in the ship's wake. On Scenic Eclipse, I'll spend the entire day in the Senses Spa. On Seabourn, put me poolside to people-watch at The Patio until it becomes Earth & Ocean at night. On Crystal, meet me for dinner at Chef Nobu's Umi Uma before a frivolous evening at the Avenue Saloon.

Royal Caribbean, sorry, but get me to the nearest adults-only deck. Same on Princess Cruises, I'm getting a day pass for The Sanctuary. On NCL, I have the most fun in the thrill zones, whether it's the Aqua Slidecoaster or go-kart racing. On Holland America Line, plonk me in the piano bar with a crazy pianist 'til closing time.