Cruising is popular because it takes you away from the pressures and strains of contemporary life. Cruise ships are really self-contained resorts, without the crime, which can take you to several destinations in the space of a few days.

The sea has always been a source of adventure, excitement, romance, and wonder. It is beneficial and therapeutic, and, because you pay in advance, you know what you will spend on your holiday without any hidden surprises. There is no traffic (except when you go ashore in ports of call), and no pollution. The hassles of ordinary travel are almost eliminated in one pleasant little package. And, you can save a substantial amount of money over a regular land-based holiday. Then there are the sights. Some of world’s most beautiful places are seen best from the decks of cruise ships. Indeed, there’s simply no other way to see the dramatic, awe-inspiring beauty of Antarctica, Alaska’s Inside Passage and its glaciers, the Galapagos Islands, the Panama Canal, or Venice’s Grand Canal.
Up-close and personal is just one of the reasons that cruising is such a valuable experience. It’s no wonder that 85 percent of passengers want to go again, and again, and again!

Isn’t it expensive?

The upfront price may look a bit on the high side, but remember that your cruise fare includes your accommodation, food, activities (including children’s programs) and night time entertainment, use of facilities such as the gym, pool and all in one place.     

Tip: If you take a holiday during peak times then book early and you can get a good price and the cruise lines also offer added extras such as money to spend on board or free car parking.      

Will I be bored?

No chance  - It’s a great opportunity to try out all those things that you have been promising yourself that you will get around to doing from rock-climbing, ice-skating, learning how to use your digital camera to dance lessons.  If you just want to relax there are plenty of spaces to do this as well from the pool areas which also have large movie screens to Jacuzzis  that are levered over the end of the ship. And remember you have all the days at port where you can go off and do shore excursions. In the evenings choose from bars, restaurants, shops and theatre productions.  

Tip: A daily programme is published of all the activities and opening times each day that is placed in your room the night before – read and plan your day to get the most of your day and facilities.

Will I get sea sick?

Most ships are so big and well stabilized you can hardly tell you’re moving. Radar helps big ships outrun hurricanes and other bad weather patches.

Tip: If the weather is bad then at least the cruise ship can take a different direction, if you are on a land based resort you could be stuck with the bad weather for your whole holiday.

Will I put on weight?
There is food and restaurants in many places but if you are careful in your selection you should not put on weight.  Breakfast and lunch will have fruit and salad options which are freshly prepared and at dinner there are healthy low fat options. 

Tip: Only take the lift up and always walk down the stairs which will help loose some of those calories.

Is it safe?

Ships must follow an astonishing number of rules and regulations that assure passengers and crew members safety while on board. The Coast Guard conducts rigorous quarterly inspections of all ships and when it comes to fire safety, ships operate under international rules. A “Muster Drill” is called within the first 24 hours of sailing, everyone on your ship is required to participate in which includes locating your assigned lifeboat, and trying on your life jacket.

Tip: Regardless if you are on a 3 star ship or a 6 star ship you know that they will all be clean and safe to the same standards.

Cruising is for old people! 

It used to be but not any more – there are ships and cruise lines that suit your age, and the type of experience that you are looking for. Older cruisers tend to go for smaller ships and younger families are catered for on the large ships which have numerous facilities for families.

Tip: Old people can be great fun as well, and if they have been cruising for years then there must be something in it!