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Every year, the Gordon Ramsay television empire seems to keep expanding . The Michelin Star chef returned in 2025 with a more covert approach through his new series, Gordon Ramsay's Secret Service , where he transformed several lucky restaurants under cover of darkness. Netflix also dug in behind the scenes back in February to follow the culinary icon as he juggles family and legacy while trying to launch one of his biggest dining ventures yet in the miniseries Being Gordon Ramsay . In between these projects, though, he's still keeping the lights on with a few of his mainstays, like Hell's Kitchen , MasterChef , and, of course, Kitchen Nightmares .

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Ayaneo said it was suspending pre-orders for its Next 2 gaming handheld earlier this year, after rising storage costs and the ongoing memory crisis made it " no longer sustainable ." Well, it's now listed on Ayaneo's website—with an asking price for the top model of $5,299 .

I'll wait for you to pick up your jaw. Back with us? Good. The top-end Ayaneo Next 2 comes with an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU, which is a Strix Halo beastie that's damn expensive no matter the device you find it in.

Storage wise, you get a 2 TB SSD. Sheesh, I know NAND prices are silly right now, but surely a single NVMe drive can't be entirely to blame. As for the RAM? Well it's... oh. Oh I see. The top spec model comes with, brace yourselves, 128 GB of LPDDR5x-8533 .

Yep, that would account for the super-silly price tag. I know the the Next 2 is positioning itself to be the handheld to end all handhelds , but 128 GB of RAM? For what, exactly?

It's a Windows-based machine, so I suppose you could get up to some AI-based tomfoolery with it. Other than that, though, I cannot see a world where a 128 GB gaming handheld makes any sense.

(Image credit: Future) Of course, there are cheaper models available. The 64 GB version will run you *gulp* $3,699, whereas the entry level model (and I use the term very loosely) with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage is a mere $2,999, with shipping said to begin at the end of this month.

No mattery which way you look at it, each of these prices is simply too much to pay for most mere mortals. And those with the cash to splash will still likely wince a little at this pricing.

Remember when I said the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X was kinda good value now at $1,000 ? Yep, that's the world we're living in in 2026, folks. And unfortunately, it's probably only going to get worse from here.

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That's two last-second launch aborts in a row for SpaceX.

One of the company's Falcon 9 rockets tried to loft 24 Starlink internet satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California this morning (July 20), but the attempt was aborted just as the first-stage engines started firing up.

Something similar happened on Thursday afternoon (July 16), when SpaceX attempted to launch the 13th test flight of its Starship megarocket.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket tries to launch 24 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base on July 20, 2026. The launch aborted at the last second. (Image credit: SpaceX) The two events likely have little in common other than a proximity in time. They involved two very different vehicles, after all: The workhorse Falcon 9 is the most reliable and active rocket on the planet; it has already launched 84 times this year, with zero failures.

Starship, on the other hand, remains in the development-and-testing phase. SpaceX has high hopes for the giant vehicle, which combines full reusability with unprecedented brawn. (It's the biggest and most powerful rocket ever built.)

The two vehicles are also powered by different engines. The Falcon 9's first stage employs nine Merlin 1Ds, whereas Starship's Super Heavy booster uses 33 next-gen Raptors.

SpaceX decided to swap out two of those Raptors ahead of the next Flight 13 launch attempt, which is scheduled for Thursday afternoon (July 23).

The Vandenberg Starlink launch, meanwhile, is back on the docket for Tuesday morning (July 21). It's scheduled to lift off during a nearly four-hour window that opens at 10 a.m. EDT (1400 GMT; 7 a.m. local California time), according to a SpaceX mission description .

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The big day is approaching, and you're finally getting ready to head to the cruise port and board your ship. But how can you ensure you're prepared to start your vacation on the right foot? You need a plan for when to arrive at the port, and you should have some knowledge about the embarkation process.

Cruise lines used to allow passengers to show up at the terminal any time within a half-day window on embarkation day. Now, in an effort to stagger crowds and prevent long waits at the terminal, most cruise lines either assign boarding times or ask passengers to pick their preferred times.

But what time do cruises board, and is there a best time to board a cruise ship? Read on to find out the answers to all your boarding questions.

When should I arrive for a cruise?

MITCH DIAMOND/GETTY IMAGES This is actually a two-part question: When should you arrive in your ship's departure port city before your sailing? Or, when should you arrive at the cruise terminal on embarkation day?

The answer to the first question depends on how far of a commute you have to the cruise port. If you live within driving distance of your departure port, it's acceptable to make the drive the same day your ship leaves — unless you're looking at a multihour drive and don't want to cut it too close to boarding time.

If you're catching a plane, when to fly in for your cruise depends on several factors. I always advise flying in at least one day before you're scheduled to embark, just in case you encounter any delays or cancellations. That way, you have time to rebook yourself on a different flight if something goes wrong.

Related: Should I book my flight through my cruise line?

However, adding the cost of a precruise hotel stay onto the overall bill isn't always doable for every traveler, especially those on tight budgets. If that's the case and you can find an early flight that gets you to your port city with some wiggle room, you can fly in on the same day you sail.

Either way, I recommend purchasing cruise travel insurance (through a third party, not through your cruise line) that will protect your investment if something happens and you miss your ship .

What time do cruise ships board?

The Port Tampa Bay cruise terminal waiting room. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY Cruise ships usually begin boarding an hour or two after all passengers from the previous voyage have left the ship. Disembarkation generally wraps up by 10 a.m. at the latest, and some extra time is allowed for the crew to start on tasks like provisioning (restocking of supplies and food), bunkering (refueling) and cleaning the vessel's cabins and public areas for the next round of guests.

Related: Cruise ship embarkation day do's and don'ts

Boarding begins roughly between 10 and 11 a.m., depending on the ship's schedule and how long it takes everyone to disembark from the last cruise. Most cruise ships require all passengers to be on board at least two hours before the scheduled departure time, which is almost always in the late afternoon or evening.

How do I check in for my cruise online?

Completing check-in online before embarkation day is one of the easiest ways to speed up the boarding process. Most cruise lines open online check-in between 30 and 90 days before sailing, depending on the line and your loyalty status. Suite guests and top-tier loyalty members are often granted access first.

Once check-in opens, log into your cruise line's website or app and enter your travel documents, set up your onboard account, upload a security photo (if required) and select your boarding time. The earlier you complete these steps, the more boarding slots you'll get to choose from. Early and midday windows are the most popular and tend to fill quickly.

After checking in, download your boarding pass to your phone or print a copy to bring with you. You'll need it at the terminal, along with your photo ID and other required travel documents.

Checking in online doesn't just save time. On some cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, it can help you bypass the check-in desk entirely and proceed directly to the gangway.

What's the best time to board a cruise ship?

ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY The best time to board a cruise ship is obviously when there are the fewest lines and the shortest waits. The trick is knowing when that will be.

Unfortunately, it can vary from port to port and ship to ship, but I prefer arriving in the early afternoon, usually around 1 or 2 p.m.

By then, the morning rush of "me first" passengers has usually died down, and it allows enough time between your arrival at the port and "all aboard," the cutoff for when all passengers and crew must be on the vessel. (If you're someone who prefers to spend as much time as possible on board, you can elect to choose an earlier boarding time, but be warned that there could be long lines.)

Alternatively, if you have upper-tier loyalty status, you're booked in a high-end suite or you've purchased one of several perks packages (like Carnival Cruise Line's Faster to the Fun , Holland America's Club Orange or Norwegian Cruise Line's Priority Access), you can arrive at any time to take advantage of priority boarding or special embarkation lounge access to make your wait more comfortable . The latter often includes a separate sitting area with snacks and drinks.

Boarding times at a glance

Early boarding times usually attract peak crowds, while afternoon boarding is much quieter.

Boarding time Wait times Cabin ready Best for

10 to 11 a.m. Longest Usually no Cruisers who want maximum time onboard

12 to 1 p.m. Moderate Sometimes First-time cruisers and families

1 to 2 p.m. Shorter Sometimes Cruisers who want a streamlined boarding

2 p.m. to cut off Shortest Usually yes Cruisers who dislike lines and waiting

Who should board early vs. later?

The right boarding time also depends on your travel style. Families and first-time cruisers who want to squeeze every possible minute out of their vacation may prefer an early boarding slot, even if it means waiting longer for their cabin and dealing with larger crowds. Meanwhile, passengers with mobility issues might prefer a later arrival, when the morning rush has eased.

Families and first-time cruisers: Board early if you want as much ship time as possible and don't mind waiting for your cabin.

Passengers with mobility limitations: Aim for early afternoon, when crowds and queues are usually shorter.

Travelers arriving after a flight or long drive: A midday or early-afternoon slot can make for a less stressful embarkation day.

Suite guests and priority passengers: You generally have the flexibility to arrive at your convenience.

What should I expect when boarding a cruise ship?

WEBPHOTOGRAPHEER/GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO When you arrive at the terminal facility in your port of embarkation, you can expect the scene to be chaotic. Follow signs for the applicable arrival channel, whether that be parking or drop-offs via taxis, Ubers and shuttles.

Before you head inside, leave large bags with the porters, who will make sure they're safely loaded onto the ship. (Although it's not required, it's nice to give a dollar or two per bag as a tip .) You can't miss the porters and their baggage carts, as they line up on the curb by the terminal.

When you enter the terminal building, you must show your ID and boarding documents and proceed through a security check. Your carry-on bags pass through a scanner, and you'll have to walk through a metal detector. Although it's similar to the procedure at airport security, you won't have to take your shoes off or remove laptops or liquids from your bags (unless security finds contraband alcoho l or something else that looks suspicious).

Then, you'll proceed to the check-in desk, where an agent will help you complete the process. If you've already checked in online, you'll usually be able to board more quickly. Some cruise lines and ports have streamlined the process even further. If you're a Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises passenger and you check-in through the app ahead of time, you can skip the traditional check-in desk; meanwhile, MSC Cruises has introduced biometric check-in at some ports to speed up embarkation. If you don't receive a keycard at check-in, it will be waiting for you at your cabin door or inside your room.

After check-in, you'll head up the gangway and onto the ship, where security will scan your card or boarding pass to log that you've boarded. (Each time you disembark or reboard in a port of call, you'll also have to swipe your card, so keep it with you.)

How long does it take to board a cruise ship?

ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY The length of time it will take from curb to gangway will vary based on several considerations, including:

Whether you're traveling light. If you only have a carry-on bag, you can proceed straight into the terminal building. If you have larger luggage, you'll have to leave it with a porter outside, which can take a few minutes.

Whether the cruise terminal and cruise line are technologically advanced. At terminals that use facial recognition, you can board a lot faster. The same goes for cruise lines that allow guests to check in and set up their onboard accounts via a mobile app before boarding. Technology allows passengers to skip traditional check-in methods, which usually involve waiting in line to speak with someone at the check-in desk.

Whether you have priority boarding. If you're in the upper echelons of the line's loyalty program, you purchased a package that includes priority embarkation, or you're staying in a high-end suite, you'll have the privilege of boarding before most of your fellow cruisers. The process will be expedited with dedicated lines and lounges.

Whether passengers adhere to their assigned boarding times. The goal is to stagger arrivals to make it more comfortable and streamlined for everyone involved. However, if people disregard their designated times, it can cause bottlenecks and slow down the boarding process.

How crowded it is when you arrive. If there are lines for passenger parking, drop-off, or check-in, it will take you longer to board.

How prepared everyone is. If travelers aren't organized and spend extra time rifling through their bags for cruise tickets, passports and other items required for verification, it slows traffic at the terminal during check-in. This also applies to passengers who pack contraband in their bags, thereby holding up the security line.

When will my cabin be ready?

If you board early, there's a good chance your cabin won't be ready. Crew members spend the morning cleaning and preparing cabins after the previous sailing. Cabins typically become available in the early afternoon — often between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. — although it can be later on ships with tight turnaround schedules. The good news is that you won't be confined to the terminal while you wait. Your cabin might be off-limits, but the rest of the ship isn't.

What happens right after you board?

Most cruise lines open key venues as soon as boarding begins, so you can grab lunch at the buffet, relax by the pool, order a drink at a bar and start exploring the ship while other passengers filter in. Some lines also offer embarkation-day lunch in the main dining room or select specialty restaurants.

Before departure, all passengers must complete the mandatory muster drill, which covers basic safety procedures and emergency meeting locations. Depending on the cruise line, this may involve watching a safety video through the app, checking in at a muster station or attending an in-person safety briefing.

If you've checked larger bags with a porter, don't expect them to arrive immediately. Luggage is typically delivered to cabins throughout the afternoon and sometimes into the early evening.

What to bring and wear to the terminal?

Embarkation day is one of the few times that you are separated from your luggage and cabin — sometimes for many hours. Pack a carry-on with the essentials you'll need before your bags arrive, including your travel documents, medications, valuables, phone charger, swimsuit and change of clothes.

PAUL HENNESSY/NURPHOTO/GETTY IMAGES As for what to wear, comfort is key. You may spend time walking through the terminal, standing in queues and moving around the ship before your cabin is ready. Comfortable shoes and lightweight layers are usually best, particularly if it's hot or the weather is stormy. Dressing for both the terminal conditions and the first few hours on board can make embarkation day much more enjoyable.

Can I arrive whenever I want, or is my boarding time assigned?

Most cruise lines assign boarding times or ask guests to select a time slot during check-in. If you arrive outside your assigned window, you may be asked to wait until your scheduled time.

Is it bad to board early?

Not necessarily. Early boarding gives you more time onboard, but can mean longer lines and a higher chance your cabin won't be ready.

What happens if I miss my boarding window?

You can usually still board if you arrive before the final boarding cutoff, but some terminal services (like baggage drop-off) may be limited later in the day.

Can I change my assigned boarding time?

Usually yes, through the cruise line's website or app, depending on availability. Early slots go fast.

Should I arrive at the terminal before check-in begins?

You can, but arriving too early may mean waiting until your assigned boarding window opens.

Bottom line

ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY If you're flying in, it's a good idea to arrive in your embarkation port city the day before your cruise. Ships usually start boarding shortly after the final passenger has disembarked from the previous sailing, usually between 10 and 11 a.m. Adhering to your assigned embarkation time will help to keep the boarding process running smoothly. (When choosing a time, aim for something in the afternoon, after the morning rush has died down.)

To ensure the shortest wait possible, check in and set up your onboard account online or via your cruise line's mobile app before you board. Also, have your ID and other boarding documents handy, and don't pack anything in your luggage that could cause you to be flagged at security.

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

More banned items: What not to pack for a cruise

Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?

What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?

What are the largest cruise ships in the world?

What is a gentleman host on a cruise?

What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?

What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?

What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?

What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Ofcom is now implementing its proposal to use more 6GHz spectrum for Wi-Fi and mobile broadband

The upper band of 6GHz will be used for better performance in both cases, though it'll be Wi-Fi only to start with

6G mobile will be part of the recipe in the 2030s, and both Wi-Fi and 6G will be able to share the same frequency band thanks to Automated Frequency Coordination tech, which is likened to air traffic control

Ofcom is aiming to boost Wi-Fi speeds in the UK, and eventually mobile data too, by opening more of the 6GHz spectrum to facilitate this improved connectivity.

Thus far, only the lower band of the 6GHz spectrum has been used, but following a previous consultation, Ofcom just greenlit the use of the upper band, from 6425Mhz to 7125MHz. The idea is that Wi-Fi will get priority access to the bottom 160MHz slice of this upper band (6425 to 6585MHz), with "non-prioritised access" to the rest (6585 to 7125MHz).

The idea is that the bigger chunk of the spectrum will be shared between Wi-Fi and mobile broadband, with the latter getting priority — although mobile won't happen until the 2030s. For now, only the Wi-Fi spectrum is being expanded in the UK. As Ofcom puts it : "This approach allows earlier use of the band by Wi-Fi while preserving the ability of mobile network operators (MNOs) to introduce mobile services in the future."

Notably this is the first time that both mobile and Wi-Fi services will be allowed share the same frequency band, and this is facilitated by a technology known as AFC or Automated Frequency Coordination.

As Ofcom explains, this hasn't been possible before because of the risk of crossed signals and interference therein, but AFC — which is effectively like an 'air traffic control' system for wireless signals — means that bands can now be shared in this way.

David Willis, Group Director for Spectrum at Ofcom, commented: "Everybody in the UK wants faster Wi-Fi and better mobile performance. Our decision today will allow mobile and Wi-Fi services to share the airwaves in the future, helping make this need a reality."

Note that a router must support Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 to tap the 6GHz spectrum, and of course the devices you wish to use on the wireless network must as well.

Analysis: a flexible solution

(Image credit: Unsplash) So, this move is bringing in more bandwidth, and therefore more breathing room, for wireless signals in the UK, starting with Wi-Fi and paving the way for next-gen 6G mobile connections down the road.

The end result will be faster performance and a greater capacity in dense environments where a lot of devices are trying to grab bandwidth, such as apartment blocks, offices, or stadiums. Ofcom notes that in the latter cases: "Outdoor and higher power use is also permitted, but only where devices operate under the control of an Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) system."

The sharing approach using AFC makes sense in terms of giving both Wi-Fi users and mobile network operators a slice of the pie, and it lends a good deal of flexibility to the implementation. In remote or rural areas, for example, where 6G isn't deployed, the entire higher part of the spectrum will always be available for Wi-Fi usage.

Of course, the proof will be in the pudding with the rollout in busier areas, and how AFC actually works in signal-dense environments.