You can't lose on a Cruise - The Definitive 101 Guide to Cruising
Are you suffering from cruise confusion? Cruising isn't always the first thing that comes to mind when people think of bucket-list holidays. Some people think it could be claustrophobic. Some don't like the idea of the same people. You're probably wrong, and we'll explain why that is in a moment. However, you can guarantee that at some point, cruising is going to come up on your radar. You might want a fuss-free, family-friendly holiday that also allows you time together as a couple. You might have more elderly relatives that have the itch to see that one region but don't have the energy for fully independent travel. Another thing that a cruise accommodates is the oft-quoted ease of living - 'Travel the World but only unpack once'.
A Cruise is like an all-inclusive resort before you even get to your destination!
Internet? You've got it. Kids' Club? So many options. As much as you can eat at any time of the day or night? The buffet is your best friend! Swim-up bars for the adults and water slides for the kids? Cruise vessels are practically a resort on the water, and that's before you even start with the port destinations. There are drinks packages for standard measures of spirits and house wines, onboard spending credit and specially negotiated tour discounts at destinations. Depending on who you choose to cruise with, there are libraries, gyms, spas, nightclubs, theatres and cosy little Jazz dens. And that's before we even get to the Malls. You can go for days at sea without ever getting bored on board. The crew are seasoned professionals at everything they do. Whether it's the front desk tour advisors, the hairdressers and masseuses or the top flight chefs of the speciality restaurants, you're in 5-star hands. These guys have years of experience, and when you see how much they love the cruising lifestyle, you'll wonder why you ever questioned it.
What's for dinner? You decide. Just choose your meal time and take your pick.
The No-Hassle Way to Travel
What's the thing you hate most about traveling? Of course, if you're reading this, your answer might be 'nothing'. However, I can hazard a guess that nobody enjoys checking into and out of hotels. Nobody loves hanging around airports. And nobody loves shoving their belongings into cramped overhead lockers or wondering if their hold luggage will even make it on holiday with them. Heck, even Business Class on most airlines won't get you from A to B in the sort of style you'll get on a Cruise. And did I mention jet lag? No? Maybe that's because it's not a factor on Cruises. You travel at a more human speed, taking things in your stride as you go. It's the ultimate unwind with complete peace of mind.
If you use a Travel Agent you'll be guaranteed the best possible deals on flights to the point of departure and they can also organise your transport in between flights, hotels and the cruise ship.
'Mum! I'm BORED!' is not on the Cruise-Kids vocabulary
There are so many Cruise lines. How do I know which is right for us?
Now, here's the big question. SO many cruise lines. SO many routes. The best thing to do is to talk to a travel agent who is also a cruise specialist. There are cruise lines that cater particularly well to families - The Mouse has even got on board in the Pacific in 2022 with Disney Cruise lines providing that little extra touch of magic. There are specialist cruise lines that can take you to otherwise inaccessible wilderness areas such as the Alaska Inside Passage or the grandeur of Milford Sound in New Zealand. Some cruise lines cater specially to foodies or couples. The best thing to do is to make a list of MUST HAVES and go with the recommendations. I'm Rachael, and I've been on over 15 cruises as a passenger and inspected many countless vessels over my time as a travel agent. I know exactly which cruise line will suit you, and so do my colleagues.
Wilderness Cruises in the Northern or Southern Fjords
The biggest question people have about Cruises is - River or Ocean?
There's a big difference. As I mentioned above, it all depends on what you want. Ocean-going vessels are larger, with more entertainment on board for families and able to access areas that would be impossible on an overland trip. River Cruises are more about culture, fairy tale castles and fortresses and mesmerising history. Whichever you choose, there are options that can take you on a perfect mini-break or an extended jaunt across the world. Explore the culture of Europe on an extended tour of the Danube from Amsterdam to Budapest, taking in museums, palaces and cathedrals. Visit the markets and sip on a coffee as you indulge in some achingly chic people-watching.
Take in the great cities of Europe at a human pace
You'll often find that you make friends for life, whatever cruise you choose
At the end of a cruise, you'll have met so many like-minded people that you'll wonder why cruising was never on your radar before. Often we get repeat bookings for groups that have met on other cruises and have decided to holiday together to achieve their mutual bucket lists.
To have a look at my all-time favourite cruises, have a look at my gallery and story about the Alaska Inside Passage Ocean Cruise, or my Paris to Normandy River Cruise.
I hope to hear from you soon!
Rachael
