For nearly three decades the cruise industry has maintained an average annual passenger growth rate of more than 7%, despite several ups and downs in the economy. Cruises have also been consistently rated by consumers as number one in perceived value; with many becoming repeat cruisers as a result. Similar to land-based all-inclusive resorts, cruises simplify the process of vacation planning and budgeting, but offer the added convenience of visiting multiple destinations while unpacking only once and leaving the “driving” to someone else. Popular destinations include the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Mediterranean, although you can cruise virtually anywhere worldwide on any size of ship. Cruise ships range in size from intimate sailing yachts to the enormous floating cities most widely advertised. In keeping with the growth trends, new cruise ships are introduced every year with capacities ranging from 100 to more than 5,000 passengers. Cruise lengths are available from three days to three months and even longer. Beyond the lounge chairs, pools and hot tubs, activities while aboard can include; live music and theater, casinos, dance classes, food and wine classes, golfing, rock-climbing and even surfing. With countless destinations, themes, and activities, each cruise can offer a completely different travel experience for the single traveler, a couple, or a family. You can have as active, relaxing, or romantic a vacation as you desire.
Couples will benefit from the genuine effort many cruise lines make in catering to those traveling without children by having designated and enforced adults-only areas such as restaurants, lounges, and poolside. Additionally, for a couple planning a destination wedding, a cruise can offer as much, if not more, than all-inclusive resorts. Expanding beyond simple romantic vacations and honeymoons, wedding cruises are now offered by most cruise lines. By adding a choice of wedding packages to the cruise fare, nuptials can take place on the ship while in port, as lawful weddings cannot take place while sailing. As long as you have secured the license, the cruise line will take care of all the other details.
For family vacations cruises are an ideal choice as there is a little something for everyone and time can be spent together or apart. Activities are available on board for all ages, in addition to children’s programs and clubs overseen by energetic and well trained staff. For younger children in-room babysitting services are often available day or night. With these options parents are able to get away for a trip to the spa or a romantic meal while the children are actively and safely entertained. Cruises are also a great option for family reunions.
Given the variety of cruises available, the cost can vary significantly. Cruise fares are based on double occupancy. Single travel would require an additional premium. The typical cruise fare includes accommodations, standard meals, some on-board entertainment and most activities, port transportation, taxes and port fees. The stateroom category determines the base cruise fare with inside cabins being the least expensive and balcony suites the most expensive. Once aboard there are countless opportunities to incur additional expenses for beverages, photographs, shore excursions, spa treatments, and gaming. These charges are usually billed to the stateroom account to avoid the need for cash while on board. At the conclusion of the trip passengers can expect an itemized bill, in addition to envelopes for crew gratuities. Careful budgeting and a daily review of expenditures will avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of an otherwise fantastic vacation. Alternatively, you might consider a luxury cruise where some of those extras are included in the fare, such as beverages, lectures, shore excursions, and tips if applicable. While these cruises may appear to be more expensive on the outset they do allow for more cost control and eliminate the stress of needing to track every expense. Often with smaller capacities a luxury ship can also offer more in terms of comfort, convenience, and quality. Staterooms are usually an elaborately decorated suite with an ocean view or balcony. The packages, activities, and destinations available are similar to the standard cruises, but allow for more customization and personal interaction with the crew.
Whatever your cruising style there is a perfect fit for just about anybody, and with good research you are unlikely to be disappointed.
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