Cruises have become a trendy vacation option, from South American sightseeing
excursions to Disney theme trips. Proprietors of these floating resorts
are heeding the challenge to keep cruises interesting for those who
frequent them, and novices can reap the benefits on their maiden voyage.
Travel agencies are a safe place to start
gathering some sailing know-how. Specialized agencies like Cruise
Planners can provide price
quotes and valuable advice on areas travelers might not think of,
like trip cancellation insurance, proof of citizenship and dining
preferences.
Search the American Society of Travel Agents page to find a professional who specializes in cruises. For those who want to plan the trip
themselves, the Cruise Lines International Association offers a
cruise vacation planner free of charge.
What to Do
Not sure what theme you're going for? Savvy cruisers have posted
their stories about jungle cruises with monkey sightings, exotic
trips to Asia and calm landscape cruises at the
Romantic Getaways
website.
Mode of Travel
A ship, of course, but what kind? There are a lot of options floating around.
- Princess Cruises and Tours places travelers
in the lap of luxury with the Grand Princess, which only recently
lost its distinction as the largest cruise ship. If her prices are a
bit high, check out her 856-ft. sisters, the Sun Princess and the Sea
Princess, which have 14 decks and hold 1,950 passengers.
- The Radisson Seven Seas Cruise Line boasts the
magnificent Seven Seas Navigator, which tours the world on 10-and
11-night voyages. Private balconies are available.
- The Royal Caribbean International owns the
Voyager of the Seas, a 136,000 ton ship that carries 3,100
passengers. It provides guests with an ice-skating rink, a wedding
chapel and a rock-climbing wall.
- Disney Cruises offers packages that
combine Bahamas cruises with a stay at Walt Disney World. While on
board a Disney theme ship, children can revel in visits from Mickey,
kids-only activities and interactive restaurants. Parents can join
their youngsters or slip away to the adult-only areas: the nightclub,
spa, select restaurants and the Beach Club.
Ships with Style
Every ship has a personality, and some lines specialize in specific
traits. The active adventurer may want to try
Carnival Cruise Lines or
American Cruise Lines.
Want to sit back and
watch a different part of the world go by? Take a look at lines
specializing in nature and landscapes, such as
Seabourn Cruises.
Small Ship Cruises
specializes in vessels carrying fewer than 500 passengers.
For more ship profiles, visit
Ship Stats.
Smooth Sailing
Whatever your choice, a few hints can make for smoother sailing.
Cruise experts at
Romantic Getaways
offer wonderful tips, such as:
- Bring lots of one dollar bills for tipping.
- Fight seasickness by fixing your gaze on the horizon.
- Buy a guide book and study up on ports before you arrive.
- Bring extra swimsuits!
Bon Voyage!
--- J.H.
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