How to choose the right cruise line for your lifestyle
When choosing a cruise or cruise line, think in terms of purpose, activities, personalities, and accommodations. Is it practicality or budget steering the ship? Or is it interest and appetite? With more than 50 cruise lines globally there is something for everyone, in every price range, and location. Here are some things to consider before reserving your next cruise.
What is the purpose of your vacation?
Are you celebrating a special occasion or taking an overdue vacation? Cruises offer great value for your vacation dollar because the fares include nearly everything you'll need for a fantastic trip: food, accommodations, daytime and evening entertainment and transportation between travel destinations. However, you don't want to be on a party ship if your goal is to enjoy quiet relaxation. During the preliminary planning stages ask yourself the following:
What activities do you prefer while cruising?
We all know that one of the greatest things about cruising, is that it offers something for everyone. Whether you enjoy spending time with your nose in a book or working out. Many of our cruise partners offer quiet on-board lending libraries, while others have world class gyms and fitness centers offering state of the art equipment and a variety of classes (Pilates, aerobics, core strengthening and the ever popular yoga).
The larger ships offer rock-climbing, basketball, water slides, pools, surf simulators, mini golf, bowling, jogging tracks, ice skating, roller skating, bumper cars, ropes courses and even boxing! Some of the smaller ships have water sports platforms featuring kayaks, paddle boarding, snorkeling and scuba. There is no shortage of on-board activities for the active traveler or family. If you just want rest and relaxation, try the incredible spas that offer specialized services including facials, massage, reflexology and water therapies.
If gambling is important to you, some ships have huge casinos with slot machines, poker, black jack, craps and roulette, while others have boutique casinos for those who just want the occasional thrill.
What are the personalities of those traveling?
While it may seem like an unusual question, cruising can be a dream for some and nightmare for others depending on what amenities and cuisines are available. For example, if you have a child that is very active choosing a cruise line that is geared towards relaxation and leisure could be disastrous. Instead, think about each individual and match them with the on-board amenities of the cruise line. If you have finicky eaters, the buffet maybe better than the dining room. How will everyone get along sleeping in close quarters for 4 - 14 days?
What type of accommodations do you prefer?
Depending on the type of vacation your desire, room choices can range from small inexpensive staterooms with no windows to 1600 square foot suites. Other factors include where the stateroom is located on the ship (upper floors vs. lower floors; front vs. rear). If you have children it may be better to be located closer to the center of the ship to be near activities and other amenities. If you are on a romantic getaway, it may be better to be at the rear of the ship where there are few family staterooms and easier access to the dining room. Beyond those considerations are creature comforts such as concierge services, in-room seating areas, and mattress, sheet, and pillow choices.
Cruising is a wonderful way to travel. You are catered to and pampered, only have to unpack once and store your luggage away. All of your meals and entertainment are provided in your fare and you get to visit various destinations in complete comfort. This is just a sample of the consideration one must make when choosing and cruise and I would love to help you narrow your options.
Are you celebrating a special occasion or taking an overdue vacation? Cruises offer great value for your vacation dollar because the fares include nearly everything you'll need for a fantastic trip: food, accommodations, daytime and evening entertainment and transportation between travel destinations. However, you don't want to be on a party ship if your goal is to enjoy quiet relaxation. During the preliminary planning stages ask yourself the following:
- Will you be traveling with children or seniors?
- Is the destination as important as the journey?
- Are there specific amenities you require (spa services, fitness center, etc.)?
- Is your destination flexible? Travel dates?
- Will you spend more time in your room or out?
What activities do you prefer while cruising?
We all know that one of the greatest things about cruising, is that it offers something for everyone. Whether you enjoy spending time with your nose in a book or working out. Many of our cruise partners offer quiet on-board lending libraries, while others have world class gyms and fitness centers offering state of the art equipment and a variety of classes (Pilates, aerobics, core strengthening and the ever popular yoga).
The larger ships offer rock-climbing, basketball, water slides, pools, surf simulators, mini golf, bowling, jogging tracks, ice skating, roller skating, bumper cars, ropes courses and even boxing! Some of the smaller ships have water sports platforms featuring kayaks, paddle boarding, snorkeling and scuba. There is no shortage of on-board activities for the active traveler or family. If you just want rest and relaxation, try the incredible spas that offer specialized services including facials, massage, reflexology and water therapies.
If gambling is important to you, some ships have huge casinos with slot machines, poker, black jack, craps and roulette, while others have boutique casinos for those who just want the occasional thrill.
What are the personalities of those traveling?
While it may seem like an unusual question, cruising can be a dream for some and nightmare for others depending on what amenities and cuisines are available. For example, if you have a child that is very active choosing a cruise line that is geared towards relaxation and leisure could be disastrous. Instead, think about each individual and match them with the on-board amenities of the cruise line. If you have finicky eaters, the buffet maybe better than the dining room. How will everyone get along sleeping in close quarters for 4 - 14 days?
What type of accommodations do you prefer?
Depending on the type of vacation your desire, room choices can range from small inexpensive staterooms with no windows to 1600 square foot suites. Other factors include where the stateroom is located on the ship (upper floors vs. lower floors; front vs. rear). If you have children it may be better to be located closer to the center of the ship to be near activities and other amenities. If you are on a romantic getaway, it may be better to be at the rear of the ship where there are few family staterooms and easier access to the dining room. Beyond those considerations are creature comforts such as concierge services, in-room seating areas, and mattress, sheet, and pillow choices.
Cruising is a wonderful way to travel. You are catered to and pampered, only have to unpack once and store your luggage away. All of your meals and entertainment are provided in your fare and you get to visit various destinations in complete comfort. This is just a sample of the consideration one must make when choosing and cruise and I would love to help you narrow your options.
