Antarctic and Arctic Cruises - A Typical Day on a Small Cruise Ship

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Expert Author Tom E McManamon
Taking a smaller Polar cruise ship expedition is infinitely preferable to choosing a large and more restricted cruise ship. The friendly intimacy with the other passengers and the camaraderie and access to the professional guides, lecturers and specialists who are part of the on-board team are just some of the reasons which make these trips so uniquely memorable.
Imagine waking up in your comfy cabin and opening the curtains on another beautiful vista. There is excitement at the start of each new day as everyone is eager to bound out of bed and head for breakfast and get back out into the wild. Already briefed on the location and activities, after a big hearty breakfast, it's time to explore the new location.
Dress warmly with plenty of layers and pick up the essentials: camera, sun glasses, video camera, binoculars and perhaps a spotter's guide if you are looking at birds. The small zodiac boats will be lowered and the parties will be shuttled ashore. Walking on the snowy surface is an acquired skill, particularly if there is a gradient but you'll soon get the hang of it. You'll hear plenty of laughter as you scramble up snow-covered slopes to get good photographs and a closer look at the local wildlife.
The zodiac inflatables are a comfortable way to travel. They easily dodge the floating ice and cut through the water channels, lined by impressive cliffs of white ice. Head out between the uninhabited islands to see glaciers, ice flows and the panorama of wind-sculpted icecaps. You are always on the alert for wildlife sightings, a whiskered nose cutting a wake through the water, a movement on the snow of a lumbering polar bear or an Arctic fox quick-stepping along the ice edge.
Lunch is served back at the ship, where a feast of hot and cold food is laid out for you to help yourself. The afternoon may be more excursions or activities. Some cruises may offer the opportunity to take a guided ice walk led by one of the expert guides; enjoy a quiet walk-about or a thrilling trip to a glacier. Take a kayak out and explore the bays at ground level or soar high above the area with a helicopter tour. Back at the ship, lectures, slides and film shows may be presented by the on-board specialists to prepare and educate passengers to the amazing geology and wildlife of the area. Join in the interesting discussions and debates which follow afterwards.
Help yourself to a hot drink and relax in a chair with one of the coffee table books of beautiful photographs, play cards with new friends or relax amidst the quiet hum of conversation in the bar. Dinner is served in style and fills the evening as a great menu of different courses is a pleasure in itself. Chat with table companions and share the day's experiences before going your separate ways to the bar, head up on deck to enjoy the view, email your friends and family back home or retire to the comforts of your cabin again. Remember if you are in the Arctic the sun will still be shining! In Antarctica you will enjoy long bright summertime evenings.
If you would like to find more information about Arctic or Antarctic cruises go to www.newhorizonexpeditions.com
Tom McManamon
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_E_McManamon
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Tips to Successfully Choosing Your First Cruise

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Expert Author P M Johnson
Choosing your first cruise can be a very daunting task as there are so many available. Cruise vacations are great value for money, but they are not only for budget conscious travelers. There are cruises to suit every budget. And the days of cruises being the vacation of choice for retirees are long gone.
1. Price. The first thing you need to decide is how much you want to spend, including getting to and from the port and possible overnighting. Remember that everything is not included in your up front cost - on board "extras" include alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, on board shopping, some dining options, and port taxes. When you see a cruise advertised for $99, that is the basic cost only. These "extras" are automatically charged to your credit card - look out for special deals offering "on board credit".
2. Length of Cruise. How long do you want to spend on your cruise vacation, including travel time to and from the port. Cruises are available all year long worldwide in anything from 3-day breaks to multi-week adventures.
3. Type of Cruise. Having got those decisions out of the way, now you can think about the type of cruise vacation you're looking for - a great party time, a family focus, an intimate/romantic cruise, a themed cruise or something with a little bit of everything. All the cruise lines offer many different forms of onboard entertainment, including separate entertainment areas for kids, teenagers and adults. A general rule of thumb is that the larger the ship the more on board activities available to passengers.
4. Destinations. Some people take cruises because they enjoy the cruise experience, however, for some people the ports of call are important. Cruises are available all over the world and remember, they are not limited to the oceans - fabulous river and lake cruises are also available throughout Europe, Asia and South America.
5. Size of Ship. The size of the ship and therefore the number of fellow passengers may be of significance. If a more intimate cruise sounds like your cup of tea, then a smaller ship would be your best bet. Bear in mind that the smaller ships also tend to be more expensive but offer a greater crew to guest ratio, and the cost usually includes more "extras".
6. Which Cabin. Most ships, particularly the larger ones, offer interior and exterior cabins, plus cabins with balconies and spacious suites. This decision may be based entirely on price. Basic amenities are similar in each cabin with a balcony or suite providing more space. Most ships have cabins that are handicapped outfitted, so remember to check that out if it is a requirement for you.
7. What to Pack. Most ships/cruise lines do not have a dress code for regular daytime wear, but there will be at least one formal/semi-formal dinner. Restaurants that are "extras" and some of the more expensive cruises require more elegant attire for dinner. Dress requirements are included in the welcome pack that you will receive at the time of booking.
8. Medical/Seasickness. With stabilizers on modern ships, seasickness is not usually a problem, however, if you aren't sure or are very sensitive, you should pick up something from your pharmacist beforehand, as most remedies must be started before your cruise. All cruise ships have basic on board medical care, but emergencies and more serious issues are usually dealt with at the next port of call.
9. Fine Print. Remember to read the fine print when booking your cruise as it will details inclusions and exclusions, plus cancellation terms and other relevant information. You don't want to get home and find a huge credit card bill waiting for you with unexpected charges.
With these tips to choosing your first cruise, you are well equipped to successfully choose, book and enjoy your first cruise vacation.
Pamela Johnson
http://www.destinationcaribbean.net
With these top 10 tips to choosing your first cruise, you are well equipped to successfully choose, book and enjoy your first cruise vacation.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=P_M_Johnson
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How to Prepare for a Whitsundays Yacht Charter Trip

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Expert Author Chiqui Pangan
If it is your first time to go to a Whitsundays yacht charter trip, there are things that you have to bear in mind to make your trip an unforgettable experience. Sailing Whitsunday is definitely not any typical cruise because it offers something that is much more exciting and unique. It is the perfect choice if you prefer an intimate trip instead of sailing through a big cruise line.
There are two common types of yacht charter, crewed or skippered and bareboat charter. A crewed yacht allows you to go sailing with a crew. This includes a skipper or captain, chef, stewardesses, deckhands, engineers, professional scuba divers and others. On the other hand, a bareboat charter lets you rent a boat and skipper or drive it on your own. You could also gather up a group and rent the yacht all together. Some bareboat companies offer basic seamanship courses to prepare their clients before sailing on board.
Your Whitsundays yacht charter cruise could easily become the best trip ever especially when you properly prepare for it. Here are some of the things that you need to remember when you are going sailing.
  1. Determine the duration of your yacht cruise. This will help you decide how much food and picnic supplies you will need to bring. Bring extra snacks and pack up some lunch if you will be out all day. But if you are renting the yacht charter for a couple of days, load your kitchen with adequate food supplies.

  2. Bring a first aid-kit complete with bandages, alcohol, and other fast relief medicines. If one of the passengers is on some kind of medication, make sure that he has everything he needs.

  3. There are some places that have restrooms while others don't. If you don't have your own bathroom in your boat, might as well bring a portable potty and other bathroom supplies that you may need.

  4. Don't forget your sunscreen lotion and lip protection balm. Apply a liberal amount of sunscreen unto your skin before you leave and reapply throughout the trip whenever needed.

  5. Pack insect repellent lotions and hand sanitizer. You may encounter some bug problems especially when you are planning to go fishing or traveling around on small islands. Don't forget to sanitize your hands before you eat any food.

  6. Fill your cooler with a lot of water and other beverage. Do not attempt to navigate a boat if you are under the influence of liquor.

  7. Bring extra clothing. Wear your bathing suits, sunglasses, skid proof shoes and hats while on the boat.
To find out more about the best deals on a Whitsundays yacht charter vacation, visit Cumberland Charter Yachts website through the links listed below:
http://www.ccy.com.au/resort/
http://www.ccy.com.au/airlie/
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A Royal Journey Onboard the Princess Cruises

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Expert Author Lynn Anne Hernaez Bahian
You may have heard about this luxury liner and perchance, a handful of reading materials have already taken you to an overview of this ship - the Princess Cruises. It may also be that by now you have had your fill by dining at the cruise's fine restaurants and you are thinking about spending the rest of the day strolling at the liner's other major attractions. Of course, you wouldn't want to miss the rest of the amazing surprises that this has in store for you.
Let's begin with the things that you can enjoy doing at daytime. You may start the morning by reading the ship's daily newsletter - The Princess Patter. It gives you valuable information on the latest events on deck. If you and your folks want to find solitude, you may want to relax at The Sanctuary - an out-door-inspired spa which offers Al Fresco massages. They also serve refreshing drinks like energy smoothies, energy drinks, iced flavored waters and freshly made lemonade. You may also want to taste their refreshing fruit skewers and lettuce wrapped spring rolls to make your experience more delightful.
Princess Cruises still has more to offer! If you're a sports enthusiast, you could play golf in their nine-hole putting green, or you may opt for table tennis, shuffleboard, jogging volleyball or basketball. Want to bathe under the sun? You may want to plunge into the swim-against-the current pool. Apart from getting wet, you'll love the free work out that comes with it!
Bookworms also have the perfect place on deck. What voracious reader wouldn't want to delve into the cruise's library collection of more than one thousand books! If you wish to learn something new while enjoying the trip, you may want to sign up at ScholarShipatSea. You would absolutely have a whale of a time learning stuff like digital photography and ceramic painting.
If you find the daytime activities cool, then wait until the sun sets. The night would become alive with more fun-filled ventures. The cruise provides production shows filled with lively music, stunning choreography, and an energetic cast. For avid movie-goers, Movies Under the Stars would certainly leave you star struck! Watch your favorite blockbuster movies on this three hundred square foot, sixty nine thousand-watt poolside movie theater situated on the ship's top deck. If you prefer watching your most wanted shows on television, you may do so at the stateroom (this would be applicable where satellite signals exist). Want to enjoy evening cocktails? Then invite your friends to join you at the cruise's bars and lounges, or you could party to the theme of Caribbean limbo contests or country Western hoedowns. You could also go dancing, do karaoke, or catch a stand-up comedy act in the ballroom.
Don't let this wonderful opportunity pass you by! Every memory would make you want to visit the cruise over and over. So what are you waiting for? Come join the fun aboard the Princess Cruises! Make them part of your life's most memorable experiences.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lynn_Anne_Hernaez_Bahian
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Cruising With the Kids! Seriously?

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Expert Author Frank E Quass
Yes, seriously.
There are certainly high-end luxury cruise lines that cater to the more mature crowd or the predominantly adult crowd but there are many other cruise lines which offer family friendly cruises more affordably than their "luxury" peers. Today's cruise ships offer many amenities and programs that are geared toward youth to engage and entertain them while on board. So absolutely yes, cruising with the kids can be an incredible family vacation.
First a word of advice. Take all the views of friends, family, travel agents, web sites and articles (yes, this one included) as what they are, general opinion. Only you know your children so intimately well to understand the programs and amenities that will be engage them. Let your children participate in the cruise line, ship, and itinerary research, especially the teens and tweens. They may provide a unique insight to the amenities of cruising they feel are critical to a good vacation.
As a parent you have the control of how much independence you will allow your child during the cruise vacation. Again you know your child better than anyone and are best suited to determine and set the limits for your child. One of these limits is the on-board account. Except for the casino games, no cash is needed when on the cruise ship. Each passenger is issued a credit card sized room key which doubles as the on-board charge card. As a parent you can set the card to have no spending authority or you can set a daily spending limit for your child.
Another boundary to consider the level of independence to roam the ship unattended. Some children as young as 8 or 9 freely wander the ship unaccpmpanied while other 12 - 13 year olds are not given that independence. This is a parental decision; is your child responsible enough to handle the freedom you have given them? Generally speaking cruise ships are very safe places but defining some rules for this new independence can enhance the safety. First and foremost any child should never go into another person's cabin at any time. There should be no running around the ship (other than the jogging track), especially in the pool areas. The pools are small and at times crowded so there should be no horse-play. Certainly you know your child best of all and may have other rules to establish.
Many of the cruise ships today are very large and cell phone service is grossly expensive but there are alternative methods to keep in touch with family members on a cruise such as walkie talkies and the old fashioned note in the cabin. Some families use the walkie talkies so that the children can check in with a parent if they are leaving one area of the ship and going to another. Others use them to check in at predefined intervals. An equally effective way to keep track of family members is to use a sticky note on the inside of the cabin door. If someone returns to the cabin and wishes to find the other members of the family they check inside of the door to see where everyone is.This is inexpensive but requires a return to the cabin. Then again, that extra bit of exercise getting back and forth to the cabin can help avoid too much of a weight gain.
Many of the cruise lines that cater to family cruising have a water slide on the ship. Some even go as far as to have an on-board water park with multiple slides and splash zones. Spending the warm afternoon of a tropical cruise splashing around in a water park will keep the children busy for hours. Parents can relax in the sun while the kids are burning their endless supply of energy, racing around the water park with new friends. Some of the cruise lines provide soft-serve ice cream on the pool decks for a refreshing break from the water activities.
When the child has had enough fun in the water for the day, many family cruise line ships have an arcade on board. The larger ships have a good selection of gaming that appeal to a wide range of ages. These arcades have token vending machines that tap into the on board account if you have set up a daily limit for your child.
Most cruise lines offer youth programs on board. The activities and the staffing varies line to line but in general, the youth program is divided into age groups, usually 2 to 4, 5 to 8, 9 to 11, 12 to 14 and 15 to 17. Each group is provided age appropriate activities that are published in the daily cruise activity newsletter. The youth programs offer video games, movies, dance parties, pizza parties, scavenger hunts and crafts. The general hours for the youth program are 10:00 AM until 10:00 PM with a couple of exceptions for late night pizza parties or themed parties that will run until between midnight and 3:00 AM. If the child enjoys the youth program, they provide a great opportunity for mom and dad to enjoy some cruise time without the kids in tow.
As the children advance into their teens, the youth program in reality serves as a launch point to introduce the youth to others of their own age. Many times friendships are made that create their own activities outside of the youth program. Some of these activities include the water park, arcade, mini-golf, basketball and volleyball. In today's technology saturated daily life, it is interesting observing how these teens cope with the first few days on a cruise without access to texts.
Dining on cruise ships provides a vast variety of food options that include items for even the pickiest of eaters. The restaurants on the ships have children's menu with the most popular kid menu choices. Your child is not required to order from the child menu. Cruising can be a great opportunity to try new food items that would not be even considered back at home. Encourage your child to try small portions of multiple food items. They just may find a liking for a food that is totally surprising. In the Main Dining Room of the ship, even if there is nothing on either the child menu or the adult menu that suits your young one, ask your waiter for something your child will eat. If it is not just way off the wall, most wait staffs are delighted to accommodate the children.
So, taking the kids on a cruise is not so scary as may have been first thought. Cruise vacations offer such a variety of activities that appeal to most every age group which could make it the best family vacation experience that money can buy. If you have ever considered cruising as a vacation, do some research and see how much cruising can offer the whole family.
BON VOYAGE
Chip's Cruise Reviews, News and Opinion
Chip's Cruise Videos
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_E_Quass
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Why You Should Go on a Cruise

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Expert Author Brett W Watson
Why Cruise? Top Reasons Why People Love Cruising
Cruising is considered as one of the most fun and exciting activities that you can ever embark on in your life. Different individuals have their own unique motives why they decide to go on a cruise. Some might just be purely curious on how it feels like to have your vacation on the waters, while others just decided to take one because of word of mouth or a suggestion from a friend. Or maybe, for those who live in places where the winter months gets too cold, cruising might just be a means of escaping from the dull and dreary weather. But, aside from these, there are still many reasons why cruising can be so much fun that many people will go out of their limbs just to go on one.
Cruises Offer Hassle and Stress Free Vacation
When you go on a cruise, packing and unpacking only happens one. You no longer need to drive around, search for a hotel or even wonder where you will be taking your next meal. A cruising experience lessens your concerns, takes away all the stresses and more importantly, it gives you much more time to actually enjoy your vacation.
Cruises Bring You Peace and Serenity
Cruises bring you out there, where there are no smog, traffic, pollution, and stress. You do not have to be disturbed by the constant ringing of telephones, the alarm clocks that never seem to stop, beepers, and the boggling chattering of the fax machines. Cruises give you serenity and peace and all you need to do is relish the wonders of the waters, the sky, the sea and landscapes, things that are simple yet will certainly touch your mind, body, and soul deeply.
Cruises Make You Feel Pampered Like No Other
Breakfast delivered right on your bed, soaking in hot tub, lounging on the deck, afternoon tea, or maybe even caviar and champagne - all of these and more awaits you on a cruise. Things like these do not happen in your daily life but in cruise ships, they are very common and you might as well feel like you are a royalty with the kind of gracious and ever-present service they offer.
Cruises are Something New
One of the main reasons why cruising is fun is simply because this is something new. A lot of people usually get tired with the same, old and usual trips, which is why they want to try out a brand new vacation experience. Because most individuals have never experienced cruising yet, the urge to get that fresh dose of adventure that a cruise offers can really be a powerful motivation.
For some great information and resources about going on a cruise, visit www.tocruise.net.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brett_W_Watson

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Seine River Cruises Provide A Great Vacation

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Expert Author Dennis Estelle

Paris has almost become synonymous with romance and love. The Seine River cruises promise all the French romance and they take you through the heart of Paris to the most exotic locations in France. Be it the French cuisine or the gothic architecture of the Middle Ages that you will experience around you, the Seine River cruise can be the best cruise you have ever experienced.

A Seine river cruise is the best way to relax and enjoy the romance of a French vacation. You can save yourself from the hassle of catching trains and planes and waiting for cabs. Just board on the cruise ship and see France in a new light. This is the very reason most people find cruising a lot better than road trips.

From the docks of the cruise ship, you can see the ever-changing panoramic view of the sights and sounds of different cities, while approaching the harbor has its own charm. You can actually see the city grow on you and see the historic structures slowly taking shapes from tiny specs. It is like you approach the rich and ancient structures in an entirely different way than you can on land.

A Seine River cruise promises you a lot. Drifting across the second largest waterway in France has a romantic feel to it. You will experience the most breathe taking sights and sounds and experience the most relishing cuisine, both on the cruise ship and on the ports you touch.

If you start from Les Andelys, a small fishing village, you will have plenty of sightseeing to do. You will have an opportunity to explore a lot of medieval architectures. However, remember to call it an early night because you are in for a big treat the next day when you visit the gateway to Normandy.

Normandy is an ancient and rich town and you will find remarkable monuments and museums and will have a chance to set your eyes on the original masterpieces by Monet. You can even visit Monet's house that still stands in Giverny. Once you visit the house, you will surely know what inspired the great artist to create his water lilies masterpiece.

On the River Siena cruise, you will be able to see the famous Notre Dame Cathedral that dates back to the 12th century. You will also be able to visit the woodwind factory that holds greats historical value. The cruise ship will take you to the heart of Paris and to many big and small ports as well. You will have guided tours and will have a chance to shop through the local markets to pick little trinkets and souvenirs for your friends and family.

The cruise ships also offer wine tasting sessions and remarkable cuisine. You will have plenty of time to laze on the decks and look around at the beautiful stretches of water and the beautiful scenery that passes by.

The Seine river cruise is a very good way to tour France with very little hassles and worry. With just the initial work of finding the right cruise package, you need not worry about anything else at all.

For an unique vacation, consider Seine River cruises or one of the other French river cruises operating each season. Click thru to learn about the best river cruises in Europe.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dennis_Estelle

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Is a Cruise Vacation on Your Bucket List?

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Expert Author Al Lunt

When was the last time you took a vacation? Can you remember your last vacation? What is a vacation?

vacation (v-kshn, v-) n. 1. A period of time devoted to pleasure, rest or relaxation, especially one with pay granted to an employee. 2. a. A holiday.b. A fixed period of holidays, especially one during which a school, court, or business suspends activities. The key words in the definition are pleasure, rest and relaxation.

There aren't many vacation experiences that can deliver all those things. If you have a cruise vacation on your list of things to do before you die, chances are you put it there because you heard that cruises can deliver a true vacation experience. The point of this blog is to help you move a cruise vacation up your bucket list. Helpful tips and links to answers to the most common questions are provided, so let's get started.

Why Cruise?

So you have been thinking about a cruise vacation or you've had it on your "to-do" list for a long time but cannot commit. What are you waiting for? Cruising can be intimidating for first-timers because it seems so completely different than many other vacations. Roughly only 20% of Americans have ever taken a cruise vacation, but over 40% of cruise passengers are repeat cruisers. Here are the top ten reasons why many first time cruisers become cruise enthusiasts:

  1. VALUE. One price buys your cabin, dining, entertainment and more.

  2. ROMANCE. Secluded beaches, en suite dining on a balcony overlooking the ocean and spa services for two are just some of the romantic pursuits available.

  3. CUISINE. Tantalize your taste buds with gourmet fare that showcases exotic ingredients, old standbys like pizza and ice cream or spa cuisine for a healthy alternative. Depending on your mood, dine in a traditional ballroom setting, a small bistro or a casual eatery.

  4. VARIETY. With over 200 distinctive ships, 3000 ports-of-call and an unbelievable array of places to see and things to do, there is a perfect cruise for you. For even more choice, consider a pre- or post-land tour.

  5. ACTIVITIES. Fill your days with sightseeing, sports activities, cultural lectures, educational tours led by naturalists and historians or simply lounge by the pool and relax. At night, enjoy dance extravaganzas, musical revues, gaming or a quiet evening gazing at the stars.

  6. SIMPLICITY. Don't come back from your vacation needing a vacation. Planning a cruise is simple; your CLIA-affiliated travel agency can handle all of the details. Once you're on board, nearly all expenses are pre-paid... talk about hassle-free.

  7. NEW HORIZONS. Fall asleep in one destination and awake to a new horizon... and you only have to pack and unpack once!

  8. FAMILY. Families love cruising. Children's programs, kid-friendly menus and tours of the ship will keep your children happy, while affording you some time alone.

  9. PAMPERING. Regardless of your budget, all cruise lines pamper their guests with first-class service around the clock.

  10. SATISFACTION. It's a fact that cruises have a higher percentage of satisfied customers than any other vacation experience.

Source: Cruise Line International Association (CLIA)

Where to Cruise? Cruise destinations are one of the top motivating factors for most cruisers. Virtually anywhere there is navigable water, from oceans to rivers, you can find a cruise to fit your desires. According to Marc Mancini, author of Cruising: A Guide to the Cruise Line Industry, geography plays a major role in the decision to take a cruise vacation because:

  • Cruise passengers often decide which cruise to take according to the destination(s), not the ship or the line. This is especially true of first-time cruisers.

  • Certain places are best experienced by ship because of access. For instance, to drive or fly from town to town in Alaska is difficult, expensive, or, in some cases, impossible. Cruise ships, however, get around Alaska's coastal waters easily.

  • Cruises allow you to visit multiple destinations in one trip. Whether clusters of islands in the Aegean Sea (Greece), Indonesia, and the Caribbean or several European, Middle Eastern or North African destinations in the Mediterranean. Air connections within island groups are often awkward and multiple destinations are prohibitively expensive.

  • Travelers often prefer to visit underdeveloped countries via a cruise for safety and security reasons. The ship is secure, the food familiar, the transportation dependable, and the lodging reliable.

  • Individual destinations go up and down in popularity from year to year, but the Caribbean as a whole remains the most popular destination, year after year.

More experienced cruisers develop their brand loyalty based on the experience they had on a particular cruise line or lines early on. Just as there are cars that fit every personality, the same can be said of cruise lines. Cruise lines can be divided into several broad categories such as small, medium and large ships or mainstream, premium and luxury classes. Within each class of ship there are several categories or grades of stateroom so it is possible to have a luxury vacation even on a mainstream ship. Information abounds on cruise review and cruise line websites to help the first-time cruise decide which cruise line to book after deciding on the destination.

Mainstream

  • Carnival Cruise Lines - Carnival's "Fun Ships" appeal to a wide cross section of passengers of various ages and backgrounds. Carnival's many itineraries, numerous dining choices and extensive kid's programs make it a popular family cruise.

  • Norwegian Cruise Line - Introduced Freestyle Cruising - a more relaxed resort-style experience that has been a very popular draw for NCL; no assigned meal times or tables and choices of 10 or more restaurants on most ships. Launched the Norwegian Epic in 2010 which includes live entertainment by the Blue Man Group, innovative stateroom design and gourmet cuisine.

  • Royal Caribbean Cruise Line - State-of-the-art ships, exciting itineraries, great youth programs and unique on-board activities such as rock climbing wall, Flow Rider surfing and even ice skating. The Oasis of the Seas is one of the world's largest cruise ships, a destination in and of itself.

  • Costa Cruises - Europe's number one cruise line; if you want a European experience, Costa's Italian crew and theme can deliver; Italian inspired ships.

  • MSC Cruises - Gracious Italian staff, personalized service, cuisine and unique itineraries make MSC another favorite European-style experience for cruisers.

Premium

  • Celebrity Cruises - Owned by Royal Caribbean, Celebrity provides a luxurious experience on its consistently high ranked ships. Gourmet cuisine on Celebrity wins frequent awards.

  • Holland America Line - A leader in worldwide premium cruising, HAL is known for its long (10+ days) cruises and its attention to detail onboard. Gracious attentive service, gourmet cuisine, wide range of itineraries, and great value for price paid make HAL a frequent winner of awards.

  • Oceania Cruises - One of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the industry, smaller-sized luxury ships (684 guests) and destination focused itineraries make this an excellent value in high end cruising. Very comprehensive lecture and enrichment program at sea.

  • Princess Cruises - Worldwide itineraries on the largest and newest ships. Princess' Personal Choice Cruising provides passengers with a wide variety of options to customize their vacations.

  • Windstar Cruises - Its motto "180 from Ordinary" says it all. Windstar's small luxury sailing ships accommodate 148 t0 312 pampered guests. These are highly advanced "sailing ships" that are fully stabilized to offer a comfortable experience.

Luxury

  • Crystal Cruises - Crystal ships consistently earn top awards. Crystal's European hotel and dining staff provide a level of service that brings a loyal following of cruisers back year after year. From private verandas to elegantly appointed staterooms, Crystal is frequently recognized for its excellent value and competitive rates.

  • Cunard Line - Cunard Line has the distinction of its traditional British elegance, superb White Star Service, gourmet cuisine, and regular trans-Atlantic service that sets it apart from all other cruise lines. The name recognition and luxury of its Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2 put Cunard in a class all its own.

  • Regent Seven Seas Cruises - Exclusive line with among the highest space-to-guest and crew-to-guest ratios; smaller ships (180 to 700 guests); includes the Paul Gauguin which provides an exclusive cruise experience throughout Tahiti and French Polynesia. A great value in luxury cruising that includes all gratuities, wine with dinner, in-stateroom bar, and soft drinks.

  • Silversea Cruises - With ships built to appeal to the ultra-luxury market, Silversea's smaller, intimate vessels slip into more off the beaten path, exotic ports. Its ships are designed with an all-suite layout, no steerage class here.

Niche (Specialty) Cruise Lines

  • Disney Cruise Line - Disney has transferred their family vacation expertise from the Magic Kingdom to the High Seas. Their rotation dining, seamless land and sea vacations and age-specific programs for children, teens and adults deliver a whole Disney-style vacation package.

  • Orient Lines - Destination-intensive including Cruise-Tours that include first-class hotels throughout Europe. Top guest lecturers and distinguished experts for enrichment presentations on topics from politics and science to diplomacy and journalism.

  • Viking River Cruises - Viking is the world's largest river cruise line touring Europe, including Russia, and China. Fares included guided shore excursions in each port of call. Its passengers are generally older (55+), well traveled and physically active.

  • Uniworld River Cruises - Uniworld provides a unique river cruise experience with 500 departures, sailing on 9 rivers in 16 countries throughout Europe, Egypt, and China. Its elegant, boutique hotel-style cruise ships accommodate an average capacity of 134 guests and provide an intimate experience that is frequently recognized by Zagat in the category of Top Cabins and Top Dining.

Cruise Reviews

By far, the most challenging aspect of choosing to move a cruise vacation up your bucket list is deciding which cruise to take for the first time. It can be a daunting experience with all the choices. Fortunately first-time cruisers have many tools to help them. The internet is a wonderful thing when it comes to research, especially when others do the research for you. There are numerous websites that review or provide previous cruiser reviews of cruise lines, destinations, and shore excursions. Beyond cruising in particular, these sites also provide valuable travel tips in general. Some of the popular ones are:

Cruise Critic - As the oldest online cruise review site launched in 1995, Cruise Critic has over 5 million visitors and is ranked the #1 cruise information website by Hitwise. Its site visitors outnumber the visitors on all its competitor sites combined. It rates 275 ships and 60 cruise lines. In addition to its own ratings, cruisers who join the site can provide ratings as well, not only for ships but also ports of call, shopping, tours and many more areas. Their website has message boards with threaded discussions by its members. Truly a collaborative site, Cruise Critic brings the power of customer experience to its cruise reviews.

Cruise Mates - Launched in 1999 by noted cruise authority Anne Campbell, co-founder and former editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic on America Online, Cruise Mates offers extensive professional reviews by its staff in addition to those by cruisers. Its focus is more on formal reviews by travel professionals with fewer customer reviews than Cruise Critic. Customer reviews stand alone as separate entries unlike the threaded reviews on Cruise Critic.

Cruise Reviews - Owned by Internet Brands, the same owner of Cruise Mates, Cruise Reviews is much more traveler-review focused than Cruise Mates, so it complements that site nicely.

Fodor's Cruise Reviews - Long recognized for its printed travel guides, Fodor's Cruise Reviews provide the same quality of entertaining travel editorials on cruise lines and their ships. Broken into linked sections, each review is easy to navigate and locate the exact information you are looking for.

Making Your Cruise Dream a Reality

Making your cruise dream a reality is less difficult than you may think. With the many choices and destinations available, it is natural to have some anxiety about the planning decisions involved in deciding which cruise to take. A good travel counselor can reduce the anxiety that comes with making decisions about a first cruise. They have a variety of resources, including literature and videos from the cruise lines that can help educate you about the cruise experience. Most importantly, a travel counselor can make cruise recommendations based on knowing your likes, desires and personality saving you frustration and money in the long run.

Passport and Travel Requirements

Unless you are planning to cruise only U.S. ports, you will need a passport. Passport requirements vary by destination. In our post-9/11 world a passport provides indisputable identity verification and is acceptable for all types travel. Showing up for a cruise without your passport will be a show-stopper because you will not be allowed on board. The easiest way to apply for a passport is to follow the guidelines found on the U.S. State Department website. Some countries require visas as well and these requirements sometimes change. Your cruise counselor or the cruise line can provide current information. The Cruise Critic website also has a very helpful travel page with information on the latest passport requirements. They also have a handy page with other travel rules and regulations, as well as tips that can answer many of your cruise travel questions.

Magnolia Cruises and Travel is a home-based travel agency in Fayetteville, NC. Al Lunt of Magnolia Cruises & Travel is a Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Caribbean Destination Specialist. The Certified Travel Associate and Destination Specialist designations are conferred by The Travel Institute upon travel professionals who complete a rigorous certification program, demonstrate essential industry knowledge and experience, and maintain high standards of professionalism. As a cruise vacation specialist Al also holds product certifications as a Princess Cruises Commodore, Celebrity Five Star Agent, Norwegian Cruise Line Freestyle Certified Agent, Regent Seven Seas Cruises University graduate, and Royal Caribbean University of 'WOW' Cruise Expert.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Al_Lunt

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How to Plan a Cruise Vacation

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Expert Author Paul D. Stricker

There are a lot of options when you plan a cruise vacation that it may sometimes cause stress. If you are not choosing a destination, you are selecting shore trips, wondering if you have chosen the right cruise package or re-checking your financial possibilities. If you are at your first cruise, you should plan early by taking benefit of travel deals and take into consideration a shorter cruise, which normally will attract a younger crowd.

Step 1

Choose the period of time during a year you would want to go on your cruise. Depending on the period of the year you intend to go on your cruise, specific locations, such as Europe or Alaska, might be unavailable. Conversely, sailing during a specific month might save you money if a location may experience cold weather conditions or rains. This less desirable weather is called the "shoulder" of a cruise itinerary.

Step 2

Take into account where you would want to go on your cruise. If you are not too sure, you should narrow down by what you prefer most. Do you enjoy warm weather or you are curious about visiting other cities and learning about their culture? Do you intend to stay mostly on board the ship, take up a new surfing hobby or take walks into jungles?

Step 3

Read reviews of cruise itineraries or cruise lines on sites such as Cruisediva.com. Smarter Travel will provide a basic comparison of major cruise companies by trip ambience or personality type. Start to put together some money for your cruise, as soon as you have narrowed down the time and location.

Step 4

Price all cruises by posting your preferred cruise route on trip auction website Cruisecompete.com as this will allow travel agent to place bids for your cruise business, or you can simply ask directly your travel agent. Search some online travel websites or any individual cruise company sites to have an idea about which are the present prices in the cruise market.

Step 5

Reserve a cruise when you have committed to a time frame or a destination. If you may have a flexible schedule, you may save on a last minute cruise deal or by taking one of the periods during "shoulder" times.

Step 6

Buy airfare, if it doesn't come with your cruise package. Make a determination whether you may like to stay for several additional days or after your cruise ends to visit a certain area by foot. If you may have some extra time, you may see more things on land, saving your time on board the cruise ship only for relaxation.

If you are interested in knowing more about Missouri River Cruises, you can visit Mississippi River Basics

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_D._Stricker

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