Skip to main content
Fran Golden head shot - Condé Nast Traveler

Fran Golden

Fran Golden is an award-winning cruise writer based in Cleveland.

Fran Golden is an award-winning cruise writer who has sailed on more than 135 ocean and river ships. Her first cruise was as a toddler on the S.S. United States. Many years later she somewhat reluctantly accepted an assignment to write about a luxury cruise ship, found it nothing like what she expected and was hooked. She's the former travel editor of the Boston Herald, created USA Today's Experience Cruise and writes regularly about cruising for newspapers, magazines and websites. Fran's latest book is Frommer's EasyGuide to River Cruising (July 2016). After many years in Boston, her home is now land-locked Cleveland, with husband and fellow writer David Molyneaux.

7 Family Cruises to Book Right Now

From the first rollercoaster at sea to quieter kids-only programming, every member of the family gets the vacation they want on these ships.

The Best Private Yacht Charters for Small Groups

Take your family—and a handful of close friends—out on the water this summer.

Tourism-Reliant Cruise Ports Face a Tough Summer Ahead

“It’s a big hit for everybody.” 

The Best Cruises for Non-Cruisers

Like being on the water but don't think a cruise ship is for you? We got you.

How Cruise Lines Handle Storms, Fog, Bomb Cyclones, and More

A primer on how ships deal with rough seas and inclement weather.

Be One of the First on Richard Branson's Virgin Voyages

It's the best Valentine's Day gift of all.

This Weekend, Oprah Will Become The Godmother of a Cruise Ship

Live your best life—at sea.

This New Over-the-Top Cruise Suite Has a $200,000 Bed

Plus more jaw-dropping details on the $11,000-per-night space.

Finding the Right Cruise for You

Whether you're looking for total relaxation or a cruise your teens won't roll their eyes at.

How Children Are Changing River Cruising

Disney's new kid-friendly river cruise may just shed that sedate reputation forever.

Wilderness Explorer