Cruises 101

How Much Do Cruises Cost?

2010-01-26T17:51:00.000-08:00

When compared to other types of vacations, cruises tend to be more affordable than people think. This is because they are all-inclusive, meaning your food, lodging, and entertainment are all included in the price. You'll be responsible for your airfare and extras such as alcohol, souvenirs, and gambling at the casino, but if you want to be frugal, you can still enjoy your cruise vacation a great deal just by partaking in the included aspects.

That's all very well and good, you say, but what's the bottom line: how much do cruises cost?

First, let me say that prices vary a lot, depending on factors such as cruise line (some are more upscale than others), destination (Mexico, for example, is cheaper than Alaska or the Mediterranean), cabin type (inside cabins are cheapest while rooms with balconies or views cost more), and how good you are at finding deals. (I like to book my cruises last minute through Travelocity. If you have the flexibility, you can save a lot that way, as cruise ships don't like to sail with empty cabins, so they often lower prices as the departure date gets closer.) That said, my estimates below are very broad. I'm also only doing averages for one-week cruises (you can go for shorter or longer ones--almost anything you can imagine), since those are very popular. Okay, enough caveat emptor stuff. Here's the list:

How Much Cruises Cost by Destination:

7-night Mexico cruises for inside cabins: $400-$600 per person

7-night Alaska cruises for inside cabins: $500-$700 per person

7-night Caribbean cruises for inside cabins: $450-$600

7-night Mediterranean cruises for inside cabins: $700-$950

Don't forget...

Singles have to pay for the price of two, so it pays to cruise with a friend
Last-minute deals can save you a lot of money
Sometimes cheaper cruises have different departure and arrival ports, so make sure the extra non-round-trip cost of the airfare doesn't outweigh the savings of the cruise

Incredible Deals on the Best Cruises! Last-Minute Sailings from $199!

5 Reasons Longer Cruises Rock

2010-01-12T20:55:00.000-08:00

If you can get away for more than a week, chances are you'll love a longer cruise. I took a 10-night Mexican Riviera cruise in December, and there were several aspects that made it an even neater vacation than the 7-night Mexico cruise we took the year before (when you live on the West Coast, Mexico is a popular cruise destination).

You might think, "Of course, it was better--it was longer!" but that's only one of the 5 reasons I'm going to give you. Here's why I recommend the longer cruises (more than the usual 7 nights) if you can get away:

1. Price

When it comes to booking cruises, I'm a Travelocity junkie and I'm always surfing their site for good deals. The Mexican Riveria cruises already tend to be quite affordable, but I noticed this year that you could sometimes find 10-day cruises for the same price as 7-day cruises. That's why I originally booked it. We got a balcony room for about $1,000 ($500 a piece), which isn't bad at all for more than a week.

2. More Port Destinations

With extra days, your cruise will visit extra ports, often ports that are a little off-the-beaten path. The 7-day Mexican Riveria cruises tend to hit the same three ports: Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta. With extra nights, you get to see those places but a couple more as well (we went to Ixtapa--beautiful!--and Acapulco).

3. Arriving in Ports on Off Days

This was something I really appreciated since I could compare my 10-night trip with the 7-night one from the year before. We ended up landing in the typical ports on different days than the 7-night cruises did, so the crowds were a lot smaller (there was always at least one other cruise ship in port when I was on the 7-night cruise). As a non-shopper, I appreciated that fewer people had turned out to hawk their wares on the docks.

In addition, our ship was a little smaller (fewer people can get away for 10 nights, so they don't need as big of a ship), so lines for tendering and everything seemed shorter.

4. Fewer Children (fewer people overall)

I don't have anything against kids on board, but if you find yourself grimacing because there are always a few horsing around in the hot tub, you might appreciate the longer cruises. If you sail during the school year, you'll find fewer parents willing to take their kids out of school for more than a week.

5. They're Just Longer!

Longer cruise = longer vacation = longer time to work on your tan = longer time away from work. 'Nuff said!

Book yours now:

Incredible Deals on the Best Cruises! Last-Minute Sailings from $199! (Travelocity link)

Which Cruise Lines Are Best for Which Elements?

2009-07-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

There are 7 big cruise lines that are the major industry players, and which (if you're into the cruise world) you've probably heard of. These are Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International. So, which is best?

I have to admit that I haven't been on all of them (yet!), so I'll refer to the Berlitz 2009 Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships to answer this question. Each line has its own specialty, so which is "best" will depend on what you're looking for.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival is known for "all-round fun, activities, and casinos for the lively youth market" though the guide book points out that many of their passengers are over 45.

Celebrity Cruises

These guys are said to have the best food and the most elegant ships and spas. All that considered, the guidebook considers them under-priced.

Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises features a European style with multi-national passengers and a lively ambiance, so if you're looking to escape your countrymen, this may be the place to see folks from different cultures.

Holland America Line

These guys are popular with seniors and retirees, thanks to their "smiling service staff, lots of flowers, traditions of the past, good cooking demonstrations, and alternative grill rooms."

Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL is known for affordability and is often recommended to first-time cruisers. They have a good choice of dining experiences and solid entertainment.

Princess Cruises

The book says Princess has "consistent product delivery" (I'm not sure how much of an accolade that is!) and informs us that the decor tends to be bland and the passengers older.

Royal Caribbean International

These guys specialize in the Caribbean (no surprise there) and offer a good experience for first-time cruises and families. They have a good variety of entertainment and children's programs that will keep the young-uns busy.

Last Minute Cruises to the Carribbean Save You Money This Summer

2009-06-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

I'm fortunate enough to work from home and be able to take vacations without giving anyone notice, so I love booking last minute cruises. If you're retired, self-employed, or just able to get away on short notice, you can save quite a bit booking last minute. Cruise ships don't like to sail with empty cabins, so they will slash rates in the weeks leading up to the departure date to ensure as many money-spending passengers are on board as possible. And the Caribbean is a fantastic destination (and a great place to find deals, especially in the summer).

Taking Advantage of Cheap Last Minute Cruises to the Caribbean This Summer

Summer is a great time to take a vacation, especially if you have kids you want to take along, and the Caribbean islands are lovely to sail around. Rates are often great for a couple of reasons:

Fewer people choose to vacation in the Caribbean during the summer -- We're often looking to beat the heat in the summer, and choose cooler vacation spots such as Alaska or Northern Europe, but the Caribbean is a lot like Hawaii in that it may actually be cooler and more pleasant (i.e. "perfect year around") in the summer than say Texas, Georgia, the Midwest, etc. Tropical climates rarely get above the 80s, making the temperature perfect even in July and August.
People are concerned about hurricanes -- Folks know summer as the beginning of hurricane season, but it doesn't really kick into full gear until September or so, so there's little reason to worry about cruising the Caribbean in the summer. Even if there is a hurricane, a ship has a lot easier time steering clear of the weather than a hotel on land! And if you're booking your vacation last minute, you will probably already have an idea of what the weather is going to be like, as tropical storms can be predicted quite a ways in advance.
People have the kids and don't think cruises are good family vacations -- In the summer, you have kids out of school, and a lot of folks assume cruises are just for romantic getaways for mom and dad or retired couples, but in truth, you can find kids of all ages on cruise ships. All the big mainstream ships have great kids' spaces which can include skating rinks, teen computer rooms, pools with slides, and other amenities for children, so you can indeed take the kids on a Caribbean cruise, and you can count on them having a good time.

All of these misconceptions about cruising the Caribbean in the summer serve to our advantage, because we're presented with great rates as cruise lines seek to attract folks. Add the deals you get when booking last minute on top of that and you can get a fantastically affordable vacation (and, for the record, "last minute" can mean a few weeks in advance--the prices start to drop as far out as a couple months, so you don't literally have to be packed and ready to go at a moment's notice).

How to Find Last Minute Cruises

I just keep an eye on sites such as Travelocity, where bookings (prices and what cabins are left open) are up-to-the-minute for all the major cruise lines. Prices can change from day to day, so it pays to check back frequently.

Also, if you have a favorite cruise line, signing up for their newsletter can also keep you appraised of last minute deals.

European River Cruise Ideas

2009-05-06T14:38:00.001-07:00

So far I've only taken cruises on the ocean, but I'm definitely planning to try some river cruises in the near future. After we do Alaska this summer, that is!

Europe has some great rivers, and there are a number of cruise options if you'd prefer to see the inland areas by boat rather than by tour bus or train. Technically I've been on a "European river cruise" since our Rick Steves tour sailed the Rhine for about an hour after some castle hopping. The cruise ideas I'm going to list below are a little longer than an hour though. You can find lots of multiple day river cruises that can be a part of your vacation or the cornerstone. Let's take a look at some options:

European Rhine River Cruise

Lots of outfits send ships up and down this famous European river, and you can book sailings for anything from a couple of hours to two weeks or more.

The Amsterdam to Strasbourg run is a popular one, and you can book with Euro River Cruises for just about any week during the primary tourist season (April through October). As with ocean-going cruises, prices include most of your room, board, and transportation expenses: "Full board cruise from dinner of the first day to the lunch of the last day in a double cabin with shower and toilets, welcome drink, entertainment, the Captain's Evening, the assistance of our hostess on board, and port taxes."

Click the link above for an itinerary and more information.

Black Sea & Ukraine River Cruise

If you've never been to Eastern Europe, then a cruise through Ukraine to the Black Sea would be a unique experience. Visit the Land of the Kosacks by river boat.

Smart Tours offers Ukraine cruises with prices starting at $1400 (including air fare from New York) for 11-nights aboard the MS Dnieper Princess cruise boat in an outside cabin on the Lower Deck, with private bath. "The first class MS Dnieper Princess was built for cruising the Ukrainian Waterways and can accommodate 240 guests. All cabins are river facing and cozy, with two lower beds and a private bath/shower."

Visit their site to see a sample itinerary.

Holiday River Cruise Along the Danube

While you may think of cruises as something to be done in the warm weather of late spring and summer, this particular cruise, put on by Viking River Cruises, departs later in the year.

"Celebrate a variety of Central European countries in just 8 days, and mingle with locals as they prepare for the holidays during this refreshing cruise along the storied Danube. Get a taste of Germany in beautiful Passau. Cruise through Austria, stopping in riverside towns along the way, and enjoy a full-day excursion to picture-perfect Salzburg. Experience the Old World capitals of Budapest, Hungary and Bratislava, Slovakia."

14-Day European River Cruise That Visits Multiple Waterways

Here's a vacation for those who don't want to settle for one river. Hosted by Avalon Waterways, this vacation hits four countries, three rivers, and the Main Danube Canal.

"Start in Zürich, Switzerland, then enjoy guided sightseeing in the cities of Strasbourg, Würzburg, Nuremberg, and Vienna. There’s an excursion to Heidelberg with its imposing castle ruins, and a visit to the beautiful Benedictine Abbey of Melk. Guided walks of the smaller towns show you their highlights, and there’s a chance to sample some of Germany’s famous beers on this Rhine river cruise vacation."

As I write this, prices run about $3500 for 2010 sailings (airfare not included).

Are there any other European river cruise destinations that should be mentioned here?

Mexico Cruises on Hold or Diverted Due to Swine Flu

2009-04-28T18:50:00.000-07:00

If you've got an upcoming cruise to Mexico, it may be canceled due to the Swine Flu breakout down there. If only some of the ports of call are in Mexico, you may be diverted to other ports (such as San Diego or Santa Catalina).

According to an article in the LA Times, Carnival, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Princess Cruises and Holland America--all major cruise lines--are all making this decision.

If you have a Mexico cruise scheduled for the next few weeks (or a Caribbean/Panama Canal cruise that is visiting one or more Mexican ports as part of its itinerary), you'll have to check with your specific cruise line to find out what their policy is going to be for cancellations, postponements, rerouting, etc.

More information:

Health Officials Suggest You Skip Trips to Mexico

NCL Travel Advisory (regarding Mexico stops)

Princess Cruises Swine Flu Statement

Carnival Cruises Statement Regarding Swine Influenza

Royal Caribbean Swine Flu Itinerary Updates

Holland America Travel Advisories

What Is a Cruise Tour?

2009-04-11T21:07:00.000-07:00

If you search for cruises at Travelocity or other sites that let you book cruises, you may see something called a "cruise tour" advertised in addition to regular ocean-going vacation packages. So, what's the deal? What is a cruise tour?

Cruise Tours

A cruise tour is a vacation package that combines a ship-board cruise with an escorted land-based tour.

For example, you might book an Alaska cruise tour which would start on a ship in Vancouver or Seattle, sailing north past those stunning glaciers and stopping in several coastal ports. Then after perhaps 7 days, you'd leave the ship in Anchorage and travel by train or bus to inland sights such as the Denali National Park, the historic town of Dawson, and the city of Fairbanks.

Cruise tours are generally longer than plain old cruises, starting at 10 days or so (at least for the Alaska area) and being as long as two weeks.

For the land portion, many of your meals are included, but you'll be eating at restaurants and such instead of in a dining room that travels with you, and some meals will not be included. Lodgings and transportation are all included though, so it's still a pretty economical way to see the world.

Luxury Cruise in the South Pacific Visits Bora Bora

2009-04-02T15:04:00.000-07:00

We've talked quite a bit about how affordable cruises can be, but if luxury is more your style, there are lots of great opportunities to get away from it all in an exclusive setting. If you like the idea of a tropical and warm destination, but find Hawaii and the Caribbean a little too passé, then consider a cruise in the South Pacific.

Bora Bora

Most people have heard of the Tahiti Polynesian island of Bora Bora, but few have visited. Its remoteness makes it less accessible from the U.S., but that remoteness also offers a lot of seclusion you can no longer find in spots such as Hawaii.

You'll find all your favorite relaxation and/or adventure activities here though: scuba diving, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, parasailing, and safari excursions to name a few. And of course you may just want to get a massage, settle into a lounge chair by the beach, or hit a few tennis balls too.

Luxury Bora Bora Cruises

As far as cruises go, you can find multi-week South Pacific cruises that leave from the mainland and include Bora Bora as one of a handful of stops, but if you'd prefer the yacht-sized experience of a luxury cruise line, you may want to check into Nomade yachting by Bora Bora Cruises.

Founded in 2003 by a young Polynesian woman with a love for her country's seas and lagoons, Nomade yachting sails weekly around four of the Leeward Islands: Bora Bora: The Supreme Island, Taha'a: The Orchid Island, Raiatea: The Sacred Island, and Huahine: The Island of Bards. For the small boutique vacation experience, choose from its two custom-built luxury super yachts, and be prepared for a unique South Pacific vacation.

Cost of Shore Excursions?

2009-03-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

Shore excursions aren't included in the price of your cruise vacation, so you'll have to pay extra if you want to partake. You may be wondering if it's worth signing up for shore excursions or if the cost makes it better to explore on your own.

Costs vary quite a bit depending on the area you're cruising and the expedition you want to take.

In the Caribbean, for example, shore excursions are quite affordable with half-day tours averaging $25-$35. In Alaska similar tours cost twice as much.

Overall, adventure tours are more expensive than sight-seeing excursions. This is because the groups are smaller, so the tours cost more per person to operate.

Full-day shore excursions can run as much as $75 to $150 a person with pricy helicopter tours costing $200 and up. If you're paying for the whole family to go, these types of excursions can get expensive quickly!

Whether or not you should go it on your own depends, of course, on your preferences and to some extent on the port. In some places, there are lots of things to see and do right by where the ship docks. In other places, most of the sites are inland or otherwise far from the port. When you add in the cost of getting a cab and the aggravation of arranging things yourself, you may find the shore excursion option worth the money.

Cruise Deals That Include "on board" Credits Can Save You Money

2009-03-09T17:07:00.000-07:00

If there's anything good about a bad economy, it's that the cruise lines are offering lots of cruise deals to entice people to book vacations.

Chances are you want to take a trip anyway, and right now, if you shop around, it's possible to get much better deals than you could a year or two ago.

One way cruise lines sweeten the pot is with "on board credits."

But is this really a good deal? Or is it like frequent flyer miles (something you'll never be able to use)? Let's take a closer look:

First off...

What Are on Board Credits?

On board credits are basically dollars that you can use while you're on the ship.

As we've talked about before, cruises are all-inclusive in that they include lodging, meals, entertainment, and of course travel to your cruise destinations, but you'll pay for extras. Extras include everything from alcohol to shore excursions to spa treatments to casino gambling to merchandise at the shops. If you partake heavily in the extras, you can end up with a pretty big bill at the end of the trip. Even if you mostly take advantage of the free stuff, you'll probably still end up spending money on some of the little things.

Because virtually everyone spends a bit of money on the ship, on board credits are likely to be used by anyone. This makes them a pretty good deal as far as cruise deal perks. There usually aren't a lot of restrictions, and there are plenty of ways to spend those on board credits.

How to Find Cruise Deals That Offer on Board Credits

As I've mentioned before, I like to watch Travelocity for cruise deals (they'll often have at least one cruise line doing a promotion that includes goodies such as free airfare or on board credits), but there are other places to find deals too.

"Junk mail" mailings from cruise lines -- If you've cruised with a line before, chances are you're on their mailing list. Don't be so quick to throw their flyers away though, especially if you're planning another trip. You'll probably find information on their current cruise deals inside.
Email newsletters -- The e version of junk mail. Again, being on the cruise line's mailing list can be a back door to cruise deals such as on board credits and other perks.
Booking your next cruise while on board the first -- Cruise lines almost always offer on board credits for folks who book again while they're still on vacation. You don't have to commit to a time or a place, just to a cruise, and you've usually got a year or more to solidify your sailing.
Ask the bigger travel agencies -- While I'm a Travelocity fan, it never hurts to ask a travel agent what's out there. Larger agencies and those that belong to major Travel Industry Consortia often have shipboard credits on select ships and sailing dates.
Airline rewards programs -- I've never gotten much out of the frequent flyer deals, but I've read that some can include on board credits for affiliated cruise lines, so if you fly a lot, it may be worth looking into.

Hawaii Shore Excursion Ideas for Cruisers

2009-02-19T17:14:00.000-08:00

When I cruised the Hawaiian Islands last year, the shore excursions were definitely my favorite part. Just being on a cruise ship is already a great vacation, but it's hard to beat the Hawaiian weather and all the activities you can partake in while visiting the islands.

Today I'll talk about a few shore excursions you may want to check out if you book a trip to the islands (a couple of these I did personally and the others are on my for-next-time list since folks I talked to on the ship had a great time doing them). Here's the list:

Hawaii Shore Excursion Ideas

Helicopter Tours

The fact that the islands were formed by volcanic activity makes for a diverse topography that is truly inspiring. The helicopter tours are expensive ($200+ per person), so if you're trying to save money on your cruise, you may not want to fork over that kind of cash for the whole family, but I think it's definitely worth doing once.

You can take a helicopter tour on different islands, but most of the folks I talked to recommended signing up for the one in Kauai, and that's just what I did.

You get to see the Waimea Canyon, which is a fantastic lush and tropical version of the Grand Canyon. It's 10 miles long, one mile wide, and more than 3,500 feet deep, and it's truly majestic. The Kauai helicopter tour also takes in the impressive NaPali Coast, much of which is inaccessible by land because of the vast cliffs with their sheer drops of thousands of feet (you'll go by them on the cruise ship if you're visiting this island, but they're even better by air!). Lastly, I think Kauai is the island to take a helicopter tour on because so much of it is undeveloped and uninhabited. You won't be looking down on housing developments here.

A note on the helicopter tours... if you get even mildly car sick you probably get helicopter sick (I'm usually fine on airplanes, but this was the air version of driving along a twisty mountain road!). Take some Dramamine before you go. ;)

Zip Line Adventure Tours

If you're an athletic adventurous type (who isn't afraid of heights!), you'll enjoy the zip line adventures. All of them involve getting into a harness and sliding down a rope at top speed, through jungle canopies and the like. Some of them also have you climbing, swimming, and enjoying other adventures while you're at it.

One of the great things about the rigorous adventure tours is a lot fewer people go on them than the more sedentary sight seeing tours. (While cruises appeal to folks of all ages and lifestyles, physically fit adventure-seeking types are on the rarer side.) You won't have to wait for head counts and slow pokes, and the transportation isn't likely to be crowded.

Zip line adventures are common cruise shore excursions, but the beauty of Hawaii's treetops make it a particularly spectacular place for this type of adventure.

Volcano Hikes & Sight Seeing Tours

One of the unique things about Hawaii (as opposed to other popular cruise destinations) is not only that the islands were formed from volcanic eruptions but that land is actually increasing each year because the lava continues to flow!

There are quite a few shore excursion opportunities that allow you to hike out to the edge and see live lava plopping into the ocean.

Distances vary, so find a hike that's just at your level. There are opportunities for just about everyone to get up close and personal with the lava.

Kona Coffee Tours

Hawaii likes to boast about its Kona coffee, and if you're a fan of the stuff (or you're just looking for an alternative to all these "active" tours), then you'll enjoy touring the coffee plantations.

An example shore excursion takes you to the Holualoa Kona Coffee Estate where you can wander the grounds, tour the processing facility, watch (and smell) the coffee being roasted, and--of course!--sample the products.

Packages of Kona coffee also make nice gifts to bring home to the coffee fans in your life.

If you're looking for other island foods to see in their original growing habitat, look into pineapple plantation tours (Oahu) and the Hawaiian Vanilla Company (the vanilla farm is often packaged with the Holualoa coffee tour).

That's all I have time to write about right now. Some other Hawaii classics you may want to look into are surfing (duh!), snorkeling, and the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu.

If you've already visited Hawaii, feel free to list some of your favorite spots in the comments below!

Is Cruising Only for the Wealthy?

2009-02-05T16:31:00.001-08:00

Before I took my first cruise, I had the notion in my head that cruising was a real luxury vacation (AKA something only wealthy and/or retired folks can afford). I'd heard of months-long around-the-world cruises and didn't know about all the very affordable week-long (and sometimes even shorter) cruise options there are.

There are even two-week and longer cruises that aren't out of the realm of affordability for many of us (of course, it can be harder to get away for more than a week when you're a regular, working stiff).

What I've since learned is that cruising can be a very affordable vacation, and it can actually cost a lot less than many other excursions. Certainly there are luxury cruise lines that cater to higher paying clientele (these ships are less crowded and less commercialized and mainstream), and if that's what you can afford and what you want, enjoy it!

But if you're just looking for a low-stress way to get a vacation, a cruise on one of the mainstream ships can be just the ticket. We had a bowling team cruising together on my last trip. It doesn't get any more "Middle America" than that. Maybe I should say "Middle Globe" because, depending on where you're traveling, you'll often be hanging out with guests from numerous countries.

Because meals, room and board, and transportation are all included, cruises make quite affordable vacations. In fact, the cruise lines are banking on you spending extra money on things that aren't included (alcohol, gambling in the casino, art auctions, exotic shore excursions, etc.), but if you don't go crazy on the extras, your trip can stay affordable.

Getting the best deals on cruises

While there are still travel agents who can help you book cruises, you can get great deals just by browsing about online. I booked my first cruise with a travel agent, but have since just used Travelocity. The last time I booked with them (late 2008), their rates ran about $30 cheaper per person than the rates posted on the cruise line's site (you can book online with your specific cruise line too).

The downside is that they didn't offer to create a package linking my flight, cruise, and transportation to and from the airport (something an agent will do for you). It's more of a barebones situation where you get to piece things together yourself. Still, it's possible to get exactly what you want this way (my parents did a package deal cruise to Hawaii and ended up with a layover halfway the opposite direction across the U.S., so it was a really long flight).

You can browse Travelocity for cruises more than a year out (though if you can get away "last minute," that can be a great way to get deals):

Visit Travelocity for Cruise Deals

Where to Cruise in the Winter: Three Warm Cruise Destinations

2009-01-09T17:28:00.000-08:00

For those of us who live in the northern latitudes, winter is upon us, and all that snow and rain can be quite dreary. And let's not forget the short days. It's pitch black outside as I write this at 5:30 pm. Ick.

A cruise to some place warm can be a great way to beat the winter blues--just last month, I took a cruise of the Mexican Riviera. The seven days of sun were fantastic--I just wish I were still down there.

If you're reading this in the winter months, you might be thinking to yourself that it's too late to book a cruise for this year. But you'd be wrong. As I've written about before, last minute sailings are not only a possibility, but booking a cruise last minute can even save you money. So, it's not too late to get yourself on board a ship sailing some place warm!

Here are three cruise destinations you might want to visit this winter:

Australia & New Zealand Cruises

If you don't mind the idea of a long plane ride, winter (in the northern hemisphere) can be a great time to visit the southern hemisphere, since it's summer down there!

While it's possible to find cruises that visit just one of these places, combination cruises that check out both countries are most common, and they can last anywhere from a week to four weeks, with 12-14 days being pretty common. I know I'd want to stay for more than a week if I flew all the way down there!

While itineraries change depending on the length of the cruise, some of the destinations you might visit are the Great Barrier Reef, Fjordland National Park, and beautiful Sydney, Australia.

Wondering just how warm it is down there during our dreary winters? Average summer (December 1st through February) temperatures in Sydney run around 26°C (79°F).

The Caribbean Islands

If you live in the United States, especially if you're on the east coast, it's not far at all to fly down to the Carribean Islands. Winter is past the hurricane season, so it can be a fabulous time to enjoy the tropical climate.

Cruises typically leave out of Florida, but it's possible to find other ports of call in Texas and up and down the Atlantic Coast. (Personally, I'd rather fly to some place that's already sunny and warm than have to sail a day or two to get to that weather.)

Typically, you'll sign up for an Eastern, Western, or Southern Caribbean cruise, which will spend about a week focusing on islands in their respective areas. The Southern Islands, such as Aruba, tend to be less overrun with tourists, since they're farther away (it's typical for a cruise of the southern Carribean to leave from an island instead of one of the states).

While week long cruises are pretty standard, you can also find longer and shorter sailings. You can even take 3- or 4- day "weekend" cruises leaving from Florida.

South America

For the same reason as Australia (it lies in the Southern Hemisphere), South America is a warm spot to visit when it's winter for all of us up north.

This can be a fabulous cruise experience if you've ever dreamed of seeing Inca ruins or traipsing through a real jungle (don't worry: I hear the machetes are provided). You can even find a ship that will take you down to see the scientifically important Galapagos Islands.

What to do?

"See the tallest waterfall in the world in Venezuela, take a tango lesson in Buenos Aires, visit the disputed Falkland Islands, follow in the path of famous explorers as you round Cape Horn." And, yes, there are some great beaches for lounging in the sun too.

Just check the different itineraries, because South America is a big place! Figure out where you want to go, and then find the cruise that will take you there.

7-Day "Mexican Riviera" Cruise to Mexico, Definitely Recommended

2009-01-01T22:31:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, my mom and I took a 7-day cruise to Mexico. It was with the Norwegian Cruise Lines and left out of Los Angeles, sailing to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta.

Yes, those are all the tourist spots, and I'm not sure how much of an authentic Mexican vacation we got, but it sure was nice to leave the rainy Pacific Northwest winter behind for some sun.

We've both cruised before, but for the first time we sprung for a balcony room, and it was marvelous. Actually, it wasn't that much of a "spring" because we were doing a last minute cruise, and the prices were very affordable. Also airfare from SeaTac wasn't that expensive since it was only a flight of a couple hours (we were also thinking of the Caribbean as a destination but that entails a longer--and more expensive--flight).

Sitting out on the balcony in the sun, while sipping a margarita and reading a good book is great. Neither of us are big into the crowds that you can find around the pool and dining areas on a cruise ship, so we definitely dug our private balcony.

Our first stop was Cabo San Lucas where we kayaked across the bay (there were way more kayaks and boats and swimmers out there than you can see in this picture!), checked out the sea lion colony (warning: don't get downwind of those sea lions... they do their jobs on the rocks), and snorkeled around Neptune's Finger (a big finger-looking chunk of rock sticking out of the water). We saw a great variety of colorful tropical fish in the shadows of that big finger.

In Mazatlan I couldn't convince my mom to go zip-lining through the jungle canopy, so we did a boat ride bird sanctuary tour through the canals and mangroves. They have huge birds down there (the one in the picture is a Mexican Frigate). We saw herons of several colors. Now we have herons in Seattle, but they aren't nearly as big as those Mexican ones. I guess lots of available fish and sun to warm your feathers is a recipe to grow big. There were lots of birds that we don't have at home too, and those were fun to see (again, lots of big birds heh).

As a part of that tour, we also rode through a coconut plantation and up a long beach to a classic (think of the stuff you see in the movies) Mexican resort area with thatch umbrellas in the sand where you could lounge and look out at the brilliant Pacific Ocean. We had a Mexican-style lunch (your choice of chicken or seafood) and margaritas, of course, before heading back.

In Puerto Vallarta, we headed up into the hills to tour a tiny family-run tequila distillery on an old Hacienda. It was neat driving through the countryside and seeing real homes, not just touristy hotels.

After five sample shots of the local stuff, we were--of course!--ready to buy some. I came home with some authentic (no English on the label kind of authentic) bottles of tequila, a gold and a "peach" tequilia that I've been using as a marinade for grilling.

After the tequila sampling, my memory is a bit fuzzy for some reason... but I remember having a great dinner and sitting outside for dinner and a show. The show included music and several dance acts (including a dancing horse) interspersed with tequila drinking competitions (we had had enough at that point so passed on that front) and a chance to win prizes (hand-crafted goods from local merchants).

Overall, all of our shore excursions were fun, and I'd definitely recommend the Mexican Riviera cruise to anyone. It's particularly nice for us West Coast folks who don't want to fly across the country for some winter warmth.

The weather was sunny and perfect (we were there the first week of December), prices were affordable, and the ship itself was a pleasure to cruise on. Next time I visit Mexico, however, I do want to check out some of the out-of-the-way. less-touristy towns!

Winter Is a Great Time to Cruise to Hawaii

2008-11-20T15:56:00.000-08:00

I'm heading to Mexico for my cruise this year, but last year I did a week-long cruise in Hawaii and really enjoyed it.

If you live somewhere cold and rainy/snowy, winter can be a fantastic time to escape to the Hawaiian Islands, and a cruise is a great way to do it. Usually when you visit Hawaii, you spend all your time on one island, but a cruise lets you visit four or five different ports (we did four separate islands on my NCL cruise) and see some of the less frequently traveled spots.

For fewer crowds, book your cruise when the kids are in school (avoid Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Year's Eve when prices are higher and ports are more crowded).

This Hawaii Cruise FAQ can answer some of your questions on cruising the Hawaiian Islands, or you're already set to go, you can visit Travelocity to check rates on last minute cruises:

Search by Cruise Destination on Travelocity

Last Minute Cruises Offer Best Deals

2008-11-11T16:41:00.000-08:00

Most people need to plan their vacations months in advance so they can get time off work and make other arrangements, but if you're retired or set your own schedule, you might want to look into last minute cruises.

With last minute cruises, you have an opportunity to get tremendous savings. This is because cruise lines don't want to sail with empty cabins. It's better for them to drop prices and get people on board (people on board who will spend money on drinks, casinos, shore excursions, etc.) than have empty rooms.

In my experience, the best place to find last minute cruise deals is Travelocity. I've compared the same cruise on Priceline, Travelocity, and the cruise line's home page, and always found Travelocity to be the cheapest.

Check them out if you're looking to book a last minute cruise and get a great deal.

Nile River Cruise Takes in the Sights

2008-10-21T21:51:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to browse around online, deciding what my next vacation will be. Last year, I took a cruise to Hawaii, and it'd be nice to do another cruise (I love the whole idea of getting to visit several different places but only having to unpack once!). And I'm all about the warm destinations, so I'm scoping out Egypt.

You can book relaxing cruises along the Nile River that let you enjoy the desert sun while taking in the ancient sights.

Nile River boats range from small and cozy to spacious and luxurious (though even the big ships are small by the standards of ocean-going cruise vessels) with passengers complements running between 20 and 150 guests.

A typical Nile River cruise starts in Luxor or Aswan and runs up or downriver, stopping to visit historical sights such as...

Karnak
The Valley of the Kings (where tombs of Tutankhamen and other pharaohs are found)
The Valley of the Queens
The Tombs of the Nobles
The Temple of Philae
Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Esna (temple sites that date from the Greek period)

Longer cruises of six nights may also visit the Temples of Dendere and Abydos.

If you take a Nile River cruise, you'll find lots of art and history to appreciate.

What Happens if There's a Storm When You're on a Cruise?

2008-09-16T22:40:00.000-07:00

With hurricane season in full force in the Caribbean, it might make you think twice about scheduling a cruise for that area. After all, you must be pretty vulnerable when you're at sea and there's a storm, right?

Well, yes and no. I certainly wouldn't want to be in a hurricane while in a ship, but cruise ships don't hang out in places where hurricanes are due. Just as the weather stations are predicting where hurricanes will touch down days before the event happens, cruise ships are up on the latest weather too. If there's a big storm coming, they can and do simply steer out of the danger area.

People on land don't have as much luck. We were down in Cancun for a major storm a few years back, and it was a bit scary. I think I'd rather be in a cruise ship that could sail away from the storm than in a high rise hotel on the beach!

The worst thing that is likely to happen if there's a big storm while you're on your cruise is that you might miss some of your ports or be diverted to other ports. This can be a bummer, of course, but there are usually so many things to do on board a big cruise ship that you will still have plenty of entertainment.

Want another reason not to worry?

Cruise rates (as well as hotels, time shares, etc.) tend to be lower priced during that time of year. People scheduling their trips months out can't predict the weather but often don't want to take a chance. But if you're willing to be brave, you can get some good deals during hurricane season!

Astronomy Cruises, Oh, Yeah!

2008-08-08T13:56:00.000-07:00

I'm not an astronomy expert, and I can probably count the times I've looked through a telescope on my fingers, but it's always been one of those things I've wanted to take classes in or at least spend a little more time learning about. So I was delighted when I found out there were such things as astronomy cruises.

What better way to get away from city lights and really see the stars than by getting on a cruise ship and heading out into the middle of the ocean?

There are a number of lines (usually not the big mainstream ones) that offer astronomy-themed cruises that feature lectures, classes, and of course chances to actually look into the night sky and see what's out there. Often these cruises will be in ideal locations at ideal times to witness awesome events such as eclipses and other galactic phenomena.

Here are some of the sites you can check out for more information on astronomy cruises:

http://www.astronomyvacations.com/
http://www.eyeonthesky.com/astrocruises/index.html

Do Cruise Ships Have Fitness Facilities?

2008-07-29T23:21:00.000-07:00

If you've been looking into cruises, you've probably seen lots of articles about how you can eat, and eat, and eat! Buffets for all meals, between meal snack stands, formal dining, all-you-can eat dining, and it's all included in the price of the cruise.

Now, if you're the health conscious type--or just trying to maintain your weight--you might be a little concerned about all those temptations, but fortunately all the mainstream cruise ships come equipped with fitness facilities.

When I cruised to Hawaii, I had my choice of cardio machines (treadmills, stationary bicycles, and elliptical trainers), and there was a full range of weight machines. Also, there was a separate hardwood floor exercise room, where classes such as yoga and pilates were offered in the mornings. Or you could just go in on your own time and do some stretching.

If the gym isn't your style, you can also do some laps around the ship to stay in shape. Our cruise ship had a 1/3rd mile promenade walk on a lower deck. It was quite pleasant walking in the morning or in the evening after dinner, especially when we were cruising near the islands and we had a view of the shoreline.

So, to answer this basic question, yes there are fitness facilities on board mainstream cruise ships, and if you want to work off those extra meals, you'll have plenty of opportunity to work out!

National Geographic Cruises Offer Adventure and Education

2008-06-10T16:04:00.000-07:00

If you want a cruise that is more about exploration and research than simply sitting on a deck working on your tan, sipping mai tais, and competing in the sexiest legs contest, then you may dig the offerings of Lindblad Expeditions.

The small-ship outfit specializes in adventure/educational cruises that also tread lightly on the environment, striving to create an eco-friendly yet enjoyable vacation experience. The cruises are exploratory in nature, and you can expect to find out about destinations first-hand since you'll be accompanied ashore by small teams of naturalists and historians to speak about what your'e seeing.

Lindblad even has a ship called the National Geographic Endeavour that is fitted with advanced research equipment and has an advisory group from the Geographic Society, which aids in creating cruises that concentrate on research, conservation, and have interesting educational initiatives.

As you can expect, the average passengers aren't the party-all-nighters types, and you can expect to be sailing with physically active and intellectually curious folks, often in the 55+ age range. On the downside, prices tend to be hefty, but they are more inclusive than mainstream cruises, with shore excursions all included (and on some dates and itineraries airfare is also included).

Examples of cruise destinations you can visit:

Galapagos Islands
Antarctica
Scottish Highlands
Mediterranean Sea
Baja/Sea of Cortez

For more information, check out the Linblad Expeditions web site.

Real Estate Investing Cruises

2008-05-28T13:38:00.000-07:00

I love the idea of cruises where you can learn something. I've seen everything from cruises with lectures on historical topics relevant to the area you're traveling in to those that will teach you digital camera skills or how to play chess (yes, my heart gets all warm and snuggly at the thought of cruise ships full of geeks).

Well, I was listening the Real Estate Guys (a radio show I catch via podcasts), and they were talking about real estate investing cruises. It sounds like they are a mix of instruction and opportunity (to network and buy). I imagine there are people there trying to sell you the latest and greatest investing strategies and deals you just have to act on right now (snort), so you'd sure have to be careful, but for someone interested in investing in real estate, a cruise sure sounds like a nice way to get an education!

Has anyone out there been on one of these cruises? If so, was it a worthwhile vacation? Were the lectures useful or was it more about people trying to sell you stuff? And if you are an investor, did you write the cruise off on your taxes as a business expense? :P

Higher Gas Prices Mean More Expensive Cruises

2008-05-18T22:53:00.000-07:00

With gas prices high everywhere, it shouldn't come as any surprise that the cruise industry is affected as well. Many lines have been forced to increase prices or add special "fuel surcharges" in order to accommodate the greater expense of powering these big ships.

According to a recent Newsday article, "Disney Cruises to add fuel surcharge after May 27," Disney is the next at bat.

"The fee for cruises booked after that date is $8 per passenger per day for the first two passengers in a cabin and $3 a day for additional passengers in the same cabin. Disney was the last of the major cruise lines to respond to higher fuel prices with surcharges."

Fortunately, cruises still remain a pretty good deal when it comes to all-inclusive vacation packages, but if you've been waffling about whether to book now or later, it might be best to book your cruise soon (even if it's for a distant date), since gas prices aren't looking to go down any time soon (but they are expected to keep rising).

Dining Room Etiquette on Cruise Ships

2008-05-08T13:34:00.000-07:00

If you're heading off on a fancy cruise, and you haven't been to a lot of formal dining occasions or upscale restaurants, you might be wondering if you'll make an embarrassing goof at the dining room table. Well, here's a short list of tips for proper dining room etiquette on a cruise ship:

Make sure to arrive on time (the formal sit-down restaurants on board will have posted meal hours).
If you order wine, offer to share it with others at the table (on many cruise lines, you'll dine with the same folks each night, and they'll probably return the favor).
Don't start eating until everyone at your table has been served (this, of course, is a display of good manners no matter where you're dining).
Use the correct silverware (if you start to feel like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, just remember to work your way from the outside in--use the first fork on the left for your first course).
Dress appropriately for the evening (most cruise ships send around daily bulletins, which should let you know the evening's dress code)
Don't smoke at the dinner table (most ships these days have non-smoking dining rooms, but if yours doesn't specify, be considerate to those around you).

Cruise Canada's Northwest Territories via the Hay and Mackenzie Rivers

2008-04-23T15:37:00.000-07:00

If you've already taken an Alaska cruise and you want to experience more of the culture, history, and scenery of the frozen north, then perhaps you'll dig a riverboat cruise in northern Canada. It's a chance to explore the Arctic up close.

The M.S. Norweta is a riverboat that cruises from the Hay River (located on the south shore of Great Slave Lake) to Inuvik, which is on the northern end of Mackenzie River. Total distance? More than 1000 miles.

This is a small ship, too, so if you'd like to experience more remote ports and and live in a quaint family-friendly atmosphere while you're aboard, this could be a nice change from your typical megaship cruise to Alaska.

Here's a blurb from the company's website:

"Historical, archaeological, flora and fauna, wildlife or lunch on shore - whatever the interest - the tour will travel new and ancient sites for everyone on board to experience.

Like any marine adventure, sleeping accommodation are compact but the ship has a large lounge, sundeck, and dining lounge. A combination of the scenic beauty of the North and an abundance of Aboriginal culture and hospitality will ensure the Adventure Traveller a vacation of a lifetime."

M.S. Norweta

Do You Need Money for Food on a Cruise?

2008-03-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

Food is a big part of a cruise vacation--it seems like every time you turn around there's someone ready to feed you. If you haven't been on a trip yet, you might have the question, "do we need money for food on a cruise?"

The answer is no--sort of.

Your meals (all you can eat) are indeed included, and you can find plenty of afternoon snacks too. What's not included are your drinks. Expect to pay for sodas, alcoholic beverages, and bottled water.

If you've got kids or you're a frequent soda drinker yourself, you can get an unlimited soda pass for about $50 (for a week). (Alas, there's no similar deal for margaritas and mai tais.)

There are also special "alternative" dining options on board most of the big cruise ships. If you want to partake in something besides the buffets and dining room options included in your ticket price (these restaurants are often themed... Mexican, Asian, Italian, etc.), then you'll pay something like $10-$30 per head to eat there. Your regular (free) dining options are perfectly satisfactory however, so you shouldn't feel compelled to eat at these places.

So, the short answer is no, you don't need money for food on a cruise, but you may for drinks depending on your preferences.

Kenya to Start Cruises to Islands of Lamu and Zanzibar

2008-03-27T11:57:00.000-07:00

If you like the idea of a cruise in an exotic area steeped in history, you may enjoy heading to Kenya.

Previously, the country hasn't had the ships to offer cruises to its coastal islands, but according to a recent article, that may change soon.

Kenya: Ferry Services to Launch Cruise Tours mentions that they're hoping to get ships that can handle the ocean waters and take passengers on trips to island destinations such as Lamu and Zanzibar.

Some of these islands have histories of settlement dating back a thousand years. Lamu is Kenya's oldest living town and was one of the original Swahili settlements along the coast of East Africa.

So, if you enjoy a vacation that teaches you about history and lets you experience different cultures, you may want to keep an eye on the soon-to-be cruise industry based out of Kenya.

Low Dollar Makes It a Great Time to Cruise in the U.S.

2008-03-23T14:31:00.000-07:00

For those of us in the U.S., everything from food to rent to travel is getting more expensive as the value of the dollar sinks, but if you live elsewhere and have been thinking of a vacation to the U.S., now is a great time to visit. Euros and other currencies go a long ways when converted to U.S. dollars. And if you really want to get your money's worth, think about a cruise.

Cruises include the cost of the travel (sailing from port to port), your meals, your entertainment, and your lodging all in one ticket price. Sometimes, depending on who you book with and what kind of deals you swing, airfare to your departure port is included as well.

For the best deals, look to U.S. cruises that stay within the country's waters for the most part, such as...

Hawaiian cruises that circle the islands are quite popular (and warm and tropical if you're looking to escape dreary weather).
Cruises to Alaska often leave from Seattle and are a great chance to see glaciers and the beauty of that area (though you'll have some Canadian stops along the way).
Less common are cruises up U.S. rivers or along the east and west coasts, but these are a great way to see the country.

Browse around to see what sounds good to you, and enjoy what your money can buy you here right now.

Fastest Cruise Ship in the World?

2008-03-21T16:59:00.000-07:00

When I think about cruises, I tend to think of taking it slow, spending my days exploring various ports, and sleeping while the ship is chugging along to our next destination. After all, vacations are supposed to be fun and relaxing, right?

But if you want bragging rights, you may be wondering what the fastest cruise ship in the world is, so you can book your trip on board and tell all your friends how quickly you zoomed from port to port.

Well, since inquiring minds want to know this information, I looked it up. According to the Travel Channel, the fastest cruise ship is the Olympia Voyager from Royal Olympia Cruises.

"Climb aboard the fastest cruise ship in the world, with four engines each running at 13,000-horsepower, and experience cruising at 31 knots per hour (that's about 35 mph). At 25,000 tons and less than 600 feet long, the Olympia Voyager is not the largest of ships, but its speed allows for less time between ports and more time relaxing at destinations.

"The Voyager offers a variety of tours including the Mayaribbean Tour, which leaves from Houston, stopping at Playa del Carmen, Honduras, Belize and Mexico. Passengers on this trip can explore the ancient Mayan ruins, snorkel in Cozumel, or take a trip to the Xcaret eco-archeological theme park in Mexico. These destinations belie the fact that this is a Greek-themed ship with each of the boat's six decks named after Greek gods.

"The onboard entertainment - including Broadway shows and an art museum - is just as cultural as the on-shore excursions. A special enrichment program even features lectures from archaeologists, foreign affairs experts, astronomers and pianists."

So, not only is she speedy, but it sounds like the Olympia Voyager has a lot to offer too!

Next Big Cruise Destination -- Asia

2008-03-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

Cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean are old hat. People want new and exotic places, and many countries in Asia are ready to pony up to get that tourism dollars the cruise industry offers.

In an MSNBC article about the cruise industry's solid prospects, even during the coming U.S. recession (cruising is a gloabl industry these days after all), the writer mentioned that Asia is the next big cruise destination:

"Executives also hinted at the next big destination — Asia. Singapore, Taiwan and Korea announced new cruise terminals anticipating the growth. Cruise executives say the new cruise terminals aren’t just targeted at North American cruise travelers but are also aimed at the people who live in the region."

The article also mentioned that cruises tend to be 20%-50% cheaper than land-based vacations, so if you've ever dreamed of seeing historic pagodas and Buddist temples, a cruise ship may be the way to get there.

Amazon Riverboat Cruises in South America, Educational and Exotic!

2008-03-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for something more exotic than your traditional cruise to the Caribbean, think river cruise. Think Amazon river cruise in South America. Peru, to be specific.

This is where I'm thinking of heading for my next vacation. I did a Hawaiian cruise in December, and while it was fun, I'm ready to get a little more off the beaten path.

You can find many outfits running riverboat cruises along the Amazon's tropical waterway. Many feature an eco-tour bent, which is appealing to many earth-conscious travelers who want to learn while on vacation, not just get a tan.

As an example, consider one of the Amazon Riverboat expeditions from Green Tracks. Your guide will be an expert zoologist or anthropologist from the USA:

"Our tour leaders are among the most experienced Neotropical experts anywhere. All are naturalists who have studied the flora and fauna and are experienced travelers. Our leaders enjoy sharing their knowledge and make lively and interesting travel companions!"

On the cruise, you won't spend your whole time on the boat. You'll get chances to hike, bird watch, and fish for piranha too (the last thing isn't something I personally need to try--what does a piranha taste like anyway?--but hiking in the Amazon forest would be a blast!).

The Amazon cruises are a week long and run just over $2,000 (not including airfare), so check them out if you're looking for something a little more education and exotic than the mainstream cruises.

Cheap Cruises, Do You Get What You Pay for?

2008-02-25T22:39:00.001-08:00

Every now and then I check those sites that tell you how many people are searching for certain terms using search engines, and since I have this blog on cruises, I naturally check out things related to sea-going vacations. It shouldn't come as any surprise that "cheap cruises" is searched fairly often (much more often than "luxury cruises" when I checked this month).

Everybody wants to get a good deal, and I've written a couple posts on how to save money on cruises, but is this a case where you get what you pay for?

If you find some too-good-to-be-true, last-minute deal on a website, are you going to end up in a dingy, drinking your mai tais out of a paper cup?

You might be surprised to learn that the answer is.... no. As long as you book with a reputable company (Travelocity or the like) that isn't going to disappear overnight, you should be fine.

When you book a cruise, you have access to all the same amenities as the people who are paying thousands more for a suite. I sailed with NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line) on my Hawaiian cruise, and because I could travel whenever, I booked an inside cabin a couple weeks out at a nice discount. And what I found is that no matter how much you pay for your room, you get the same buffet, the same entertainment, the same access to amenities.

So, what's the catch? Well, it's a bit like Las Vegas. You know how they ply you with all those 99 cent drinks so you'll get drunk and spend tons of money in the casino? Well the cruise industry makes a lot, if not most, of its money on the extras that aren't included in your ticket. Examples include drinks (you'll even pay for sodas on cruises), alternative dining restaurants (there are plenty of dining options that are included in the price, but you may want to check out the more exotic fare), shore excursions (I spent several hundred just on shore excursions during my week in Hawaii), and shops (yes, you can shop until you drop right on board).

You don't have to pay for any of these things, but you'll probably want to enjoy yourself some, so just keep this in mind when you're budgeting for your cruise vacation. Yes, cheap cruises can still be an awesome vacation, but plan on spending a little to a lot extra, depending on what you go in for when you're on board.

Safari Shore Excursions Are Fun Part of African Cruises

2008-02-04T18:31:00.000-08:00

There are cruises available just about anywhere in the world, and the coastal waters of Africa are no exception. And what do you do when you touch ground on these trips? Why, take a safari of course.

It's no secret that one of Africa's national treasures is its wild game. The animals most of us will never see outside of cages in a zoo still roam freely here.

East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda) and South Africa (Botswana and South Africa) are the two best areas for photo safaris. The Seychelle Islands, a popular destination on cruise itineraries, are great for bird watching. The clear blue skies and abundant wildlife offer wonderful shore excursions for birders.

The only downside with safaris is that they are usually multi-day trips, and many argue that African wildlife can't be adequately viewed on a one-day shore excursion. Because of this, you may want to consider a land tour add-on. This is when you add a 3-4 night safari adventure on at the beginning or end of your cruise trip.

Ask your travel agent or browse online for these sorts of packages.

Are Cruise Ship Cabins Claustrophobic?

2007-12-18T17:31:00.000-08:00

Do you find small spaces claustrophobic? Does the idea of being couped up make you feel a little crazy? If so, you may be wondering how small cabins are on cruise ships and if they will make you feel claustrophobic.

I'll give you my experience.

I recently got back from a week-long cruise around the Hawaiian Islands, and I stayed aboard NCL's Pride of America. I decided to save money and book an inside cabin, which means no windows or portholes to look out. You generally don't spend a lot of time in your cabin anyway, and I was more interested in dropping my extra money on fun shore excursions.

Anyway, the cabin was definitely smaller than a hotel room, but there were lots of mirrors and built-in storage, so I didn't think it felt claustrophobic. They made a good use of space. Now I probably wouldn't want to pack three people in there (there was an extra bed you could fold out from the wall if you had three), but I'm sure there are apartments in New York that aren't any bigger, heh. For one or two people it was fine, and if you missed seeing out a window, you could turn on the TV and check out the live camera feed from the bow of the ship.

Which Island in Hawaii for Helicopter Tour Shore Excursion?

2007-11-29T12:51:00.000-08:00

If you take a cruise to Hawaii, you'll have a long list of options for shore excursions. Each island you visit will have different things for you to see and do, but just about all of them offer a helicopter tour.

This isn't any surprise considering how beautiful the islands are. Each one is forged from volcanoes, each one surrounded by sparkling ocean waters, and each one full of lush scenery and unspoiled lands, some not even accessible by road. On any island, you'll see some impressive vistas if you take a helicopter tour shore excursion.

But you probably don't want to take a helicopter tour on each island. If your ship stops in four different ports, as many of them do, that would be a lot of pricey shore excursions, for one thing. And you'll want to experience some of the land-based sights too.

So, if you're planning to take a helicopter ride, which Hawaiian island should you choose?

While you'll probably enjoy yourself on any island, many people recommend Kauai.

A big part of this is because Kauai has a canyon that almost rivals the grand canyon in scope and beauty. Called Waimea Canyon, it's sure to take your breath away. Also Mount Wai'ale'ale crater is an impressive site where more than 420 inches of rain fall a year.

Also larges parts of Kauai are still wild and undeveloped, meaning no roads to them, so the only way to view them is from the air. You'll see stunning waterfalls and coasts too.

Though all the Hawaiian islands are beautiful (hey, they call it paradise for a reason), you'll really enjoy a helicopter tour on Kauai.

Luxury Cruises vs. Economy or Mid-price Cruises, What's the Difference?

2007-11-27T16:36:00.000-08:00

If you book a luxury cruise, what are you really paying for? Are you getting a vastly different experience from someone who books a cruise on an economy or mid-price ship?

Well, let's take a look....

If it's public facilities that matter a lot to you, you can actually find some of the most modern and enhanced pools, gyms, spas, lounges, and showrooms on the big but affordable ships offered by the mid-market cruise lines (such as Carnival and Princess Cruises). You won't necessarily get better public spaces on luxury vessels, and you may even have a few fewer amenities since luxury ships have smaller passenger loads.

Will you get better service on a luxury ship?

Well, maybe. Paying more doesn't necessarily mean you'll get more specialized attention. Usually it depends a lot on the passenger to crew ratio. The lower the ratio, the more personal attention you should get. (Luxury ships have fewer passengers than economy or mid-price mega ships, but it is possible to find mid-price cruise ships out there that only take a couple hundred people at a time: see posts on mid-sized ships and small cruise ships).

What you do tend to see in luxury lines is better suites. Buying a luxury cruise will usually get you a larger cabin and a roomier bathroom with tub and shower.

Dining is almost always superior on luxury cruise ships as well. With fewer mouths to feed, the chefs have more time to offer a larger choice of dishes and make meals to order, restaurant style.

However, some of the mid-market cruise lines are known for good food, too, so you don't necessarily have to pay big bucks for enjoyable meals. Also the megaships today have alternative dining restaurants where you can be treated just as you would at your favorite eatery on the mainland (these dining experiences aren't included in the base cruise price and cost $10-$30 a head).

As you can see, it really depends on your preferences as to whether or not it's worth paying the extra bucks for a luxury cruise line. Some people swear by them, and some people have had perfectly wonderful "luxury" experiences with mainstream cruise lines.

Before you make your decision ask around and visit the various cruise forums and message boards out there (a Google search for "cruise forum" will show you a couple of the most popular) to read reviews of specific lines and ships.

Source: The Unofficial Guide to Cruises

Are Shore Excursions Handicap Accessible?

2007-11-23T21:24:00.000-08:00

Cruises can be a great vacation, but are they still enjoyable if you have accessibility issues? And if you do find the perfect cruise for you, will you be able to partake in the shore excursions?

In the past, it was often hard to find a cruise ship that was truly easy to navigate for a person in a wheelchair, but fortunately things have changed in the last few years, thanks evolving disability acts. A travel agent can help you find a ship that's perfect for your needs, but generally you'll find newer ships are much more handicap accessible and you'll have fewer difficulties and restrictions on your on-board roaming.

However, shore excursions are run by third parties, and in foreign countries they may not be worrying about disability acts instated in your country. This means you need to be a little more careful in selecting tours to take when you disembark.

In many cases, cruise lines will have certain shore excursions marked as handicap accessible (often with a wheelchair icon) in their brochures or their online booking system. Also the trips will be rated by difficulty level (1, 2, or 3). These pamphlets with their brief descriptions can only tell you so much however, so if you have doubts or questions about anything, your best recourse is just to ask.

How will transfers be done from ship to shore (if the ship is not docking but tendering people ashore with boats, transfers can be more troublesome) and from shore to tour transport? Will the excursion itself require walking or navigating over uneven terrain? Are vans, buses, etc. equipped with ramps and handicap seating?

You will find that while many shore excursions aren't suitable for people with accessibility issues, there will likely be some interesting tours to take at each port of call.

For more on cruising with accessibility issues, browse this article.

Walkie Talkies Let You Keep Tabs on Family Members on Your Cruise

2007-11-22T15:20:00.000-08:00

If you're heading off on a cruise for the whole family (or even just for two), chances are different people are going to want to do different things, at least some of the time. So, how do you keep track of everyone?

You have a couple of options: verbally setting times to meet up (or leaving sticky notes on cabin doors), calling each other on cell phones (most places you cruise to you'll be able to get cell reception), or picking up walkie talkies.

Sticky notes are free but cell phones can get costly, especially when you figure in roaming charges. That's why walkie talkies are popular with some families.

Many of them have ranges large enough that you will be able to talk to family members anywhere on the cruise ship, and there's no roaming charges with these puppies.

If you're worried about walkie talkies taking up too much room in your luggage, you may want to check into extra small ones, such as the wrist watch walkie talkies shown here. You can get a decent set for about $50.

Cruise Cabin Differences

2007-11-17T10:49:00.000-08:00

When you book your cruise, one of the first things you'll do is choose which cabin you want to stay in.

There are several types of cabins, all with different price tags. Sizes range from tiny (60 square feet) to huge (5,750 square feet). Of course, there is some variation from line to line, but here are the basics you can expect for each type (price for inside cabins is cheapest and goes up from there):

Inside cabins -- These rooms come without a view. They are on the inside of the ship and have no windows or portholes. They are very dark when the door is closed, so if you are claustrophobic, you may not like an inside cabin. However if, like many people, you tend to enjoy all the ship has to offer and just use your cabin for sleeping, this sort of accommodation may work just fine for you.

Outside cabins -- The next rooms up will have windows or portholes, so you get a little light coming inside and you can get a glimpse of what's going on outside of the ship.

Outside balcony cabins -- In addition to, or instead of, a window/porthole you'll actually get a little private balcony you can step out onto. Private is relative, of course, since you'll usually be able to see your neighbors or even the people below you on their balconies. Beware the term "French balcony" in the room description, because that just means there will be doors you can open for air but you won't actually have room to go outside.

Suites -- These are the largest and most expensive living spaces on a cruise ship. They usually feature a balcony and junior suites that may or may not have balconies of their own.

Are Transatlantic Cruises Boring?

2007-11-15T11:33:00.000-08:00

Quick, you've got to get from New York to London. What's the quickest way?

Ok, you're right. Flying. But if you hate to fly or you want to make a vacation of the trip, you might consider a transatlantic cruise.

Several lines offer them, and in a few days you can sail from one side of the ocean to the other. But, you may be asking yourself, is it boring? There are no shore excursions, and there's nothing to look at but water, right?

Whether or not you get restless on the voyage will depend on you, but today's cruise ships are anything but boring. Some of them are like mini Las Vegas towns on the water. You've got casinos, theaters, shows, lots and lots of food choices, fitness centers, classes, and don't forget just lounging by the pool in the sun (if the weather is good).

There is so much to do on board a cruise ship that some people skip the shore excursions when they take a trip anyway.

If you know you're get restless being on a ship for several days with no way off, then a transatlantic cruise might not be for you, but if you want a relaxing way to cross the ocean, then you have no reason to worry about being bored on the ship.

Pros & Cons to Cruising to Private Islands

2007-11-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

If you're taking a cruise that visits a new port of call just about every day, you can feel overwhelmed by all the sightseeing opportunities. Sometimes it's nice to have an excuse for a beach day, where fun and relaxation are the only priorities.

That's why the major cruise lines have purchased private islands and placed them on their Caribbean itineraries. With tons of resort-style activities to do, they're a great place for couples, families, and even the solo traveler just looking to relax on the beach.

Which Cruise Lines Operate Which Private Islands?

Here's the list...

Catalina Island -- Owned by Celebrity Cruises, first used in 1995, located in the Dominican Republic
Serena Cay -- Owned by Costa Cruises, first used in 1996, located in the Dominican Republic
Castaway Cay -- Owned by Disney, first used in 1998, located in the Bahamas
Half Moon Cay -- Owned by Holland America, first used in 1997, located in the Bahamas
Cayo Levantado -- Owned by MSC Cruises, first used in 2005, located in the Dominican Republic
Great Stirrup Cay -- Owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, first used in 1977, located in the Bahamas
Princess Bay -- Owned by Princess Cruises, first used in 1986, located in Mayreau, Genadines
Princess Cays -- Also owned by Princess Cruises, first used in 1992, and located in Eleuthera, Bahamas
Coco Cay -- Owned by Royal Caribbean International, first used in 1990, located in the Bahamas
Labadee -- Also owned by RCI, first used in 1986, and located in Haiti

If your cruise includes a trip to one of these islands, here's what you can expect:

Benefits/Pros of Private Islands

No natives, so no crime to speak of
Crystal clear waters and great beaches
Plenty of water activities such as snorkeling and scuba
No one trying to hawk their wares at you
No reservations to make or worrying about catching taxies
Small boats and floating mattresses to lounge in the water on
Hammocks and sometimes cottages where massages are available

Downsides/Cons of Private Islands

As with anywhere else, you'll have to pay for most of the activities (even to rent a hammock)
You'll be sharing your "private island" with everyone else on the ship (up to 3,000 passengers)

There aren't too many downsides to a day on a private island though so if your itinerary stops by one, plan on enjoying yourself.

Some Cruise Lines Have Singles Match Programs

2007-11-13T19:42:00.000-08:00

So, you want to go on a cruise, but you're single (or have a partner/spouse who doesn't like cruising). Whatcha going to do? Cruise lines base their prices on two people in a cabin, and if you get the whole cabin to your self, then you can expect to pay double. Eep.

Fortunately, there are ways to get around this.

The most obvious is to find someone to room with. Or better yet, let the cruise line find someone (same sex) for you to room with.

Some lines have singles partner programs, so you can cruise without paying twice as much for a cabin. Basically, they agree to find you a roommate to share the trip with, and you each pay the normal rate. If they can't find you a same-sex roomie, then you get the cabin to yourself, and you don't have to pay any more.

An example of one of the big lines with a singles partner-match program is Holland America:

"Single guests who agree to share a stateroom with another nonsmoking guest of the same sex pay only the per-person, doubleoccupancy rate. (If we can't find a partner for you, you cruise solo at the agreed-upon double-occupancy fare.)"

If you're looking to cruise solo, but don't want to pay the hefty charge of having a room to yourself, then see if the line you're interested in has a program like this or talk to a travel agent for suggestions.

Repositioning Cruises Can Cut Down on Flying Time

2007-11-12T14:31:00.000-08:00

I've talked about what repositioning cruises are before, so check out that post if you're not familiar with them yet, but today I wanted to cover one of the perks.

Depending on where you live, you may be able to cut down on your flying time by booking a repositioning cruise. This is because these cruises depart from a different port than they return to.

Here's an example:

My parents live in Seattle, and they'd love to do cruises that visit Mexico and the Caribbean, but most repositioning cruises leave out of Florida (with a few from Texas and other states with ports close to the Gulf). Anyway you slice it, that is a long flight from Seattle.

However, they're looking at taking a repositioning cruise that starts in Florida but ends in Seattle (ships will do this type of thing when they're moving from one area to another, such as from doing Caribbean cruises in the winter and spring to doing Alaska cruises in the summer). This would mean my parents would only have to fly one way, and not only would they get to see the ports in the Caribbean Sea, but they'd also get to experience the Panama Canal and some of the sights on the Pacific Ocean side of Mexico.

Of course, repositioning cruises usually only happen a couple times a year and not for every cruise ship, so you do have to watch for them and be prepared to fit your schedule around them. But if this sounds like a fun vacation to you (and you're not crazy about flying), then it may be worth rearranging your schedule to take a repositioning cruise that starts or stops at a port near you.

Greece's Ancient Olympia Shore Excursion Shows Off Original Olympic Games Site

2007-11-11T13:44:00.000-08:00

I'd really like to cruise the Mediterranean someday and visit Greece. It's one of the countries I didn't get to see when I did my Rick Steves' tour through Europe a couple years ago, but I really enjoyed Greek history when I was in school.

For those of you who are thinking of a cruise to this part of the world, too, I've been checking out some of the shore excursions.

Be prepared: when you cruise through the Mediterranean, the shore excursions tend to be more about sightseeing and appreciating history than the constant entertainment of many Mexican or Caribbean vacations.

This trip to Ancient Olympia looks like a great chance to see some remnants of Greek history:

You get to see "the birthplace of the Olympic Games and the most important sanctuary of Zeus, father of all gods and goddesses. The starting line is still visible etched on the marble in the stadium there, inviting you to run and in your imagination compete with the ancient athletes. Enjoy the play of light on the soft greenery and dappled ancient columns in this wonderful and peaceful setting." Also "visit the archaeological museum beside the ancient site. It contains most interesting exhibits such as the pediments and the metopes of the Temple of Zeus, the Statue of Nike and of Hermes."

You can take advantage of the Ancient Olympia shore excursion if your cruise ship docks at Katakolon.

Do Cruise Cabins Have Bathtubs?

2007-11-10T15:41:00.001-08:00

Whether you're looking for a handicap-friendly bathroom, you've got small kids to bathe, or you just love a good soak, you may be wondering if cabins and suites aboard cruise ships have bathtubs.

The answer is yes--some of them.

It can vary from ship to ship and line to line, but just about all suites will come with bathtubs, and on some lines tubs are the norm (i.e. Holland America).

So, how do you make sure you get a room with a tub? The best way is to work with a travel agent and book early. That way, you're able to select your specific cabin (travel agents can help you decipher the floor plan codes so you're sure to get a good room).

It can be trickier to choose your cabin if you're booking at the last minute, traveling as part of a group, or taking part of a cabin-share or cabin-guarantee program (this is when you agree to a certain price and don't find out your exact cabin until the last minute).

Advantages of Booking Back-to-Back Cruises

2007-11-10T14:42:00.000-08:00

For many people, a cruise by itself is a luxury to be enjoyed, but what if you could take back-to-back cruises and stay on vacation twice as long?

A back-to-back cruise is when you schedule two consecutive voyages on the same ship.

It may not be as pricey as you think, as many cruise lines offer discounts for your second cruise in a back-to-back scenario. Why? They love to get their cabins booked, and they also love to keep you coming back with discounts for frequent cruisers.

Scheduling a back-to-back cruise doesn't necessarily mean seeing all the same ports over again either. There are a lot of cruise lines that offer alternating itineraries. For example, in your first week, your ship might cruise the eastern Caribbean and in the second head over to the western islands.

Though alternating itineraries for back-to-back cruisers are probably most common the Caribbean, you can also find them in Alaska, on the Mexican Riviera, along the east coast and Canada, and even in Hawaii.

Ok, so we've got two perks so far: discounts for back-to-back cruises and the chance to see twice as many ports. Here's one more advantage to taking two cruises in a row:

You only have to fly down once!

If you booked two cruises a couple months apart, you'd have to pay the expense of flying or driving to the departure port twice. With back-to-back cruises, you get two vacations (or one extended vacation--however you want to look at it) for the price of one round-trip plane ticket.

Tips for booking back-to-back cruises

To keep things stress-free, it's a good idea to book your sailings a good six months in advance. This is a good way to ensure you can get the same cabin for both trips (who wants to pack and unpack again in the middle?). Of course, if you don't mind moving, you may be able to finagle a free cabin upgrade in as a perk of booking that second trip.

Also, consider talking to a travel agent, since they may be aware of specials that aren't advertised on websites.

For more information on this topic, check out this great article on the subject that was printed a couple years ago in Cruise Travel.

Winter is a Great Time to Cruise to Australia

2007-11-09T14:46:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for a way to escape winter in the northern hemisphere, perhaps a cruise down under would make a nice vacation. While we're fighting snow flurries, Australia and New Zealand are enjoying sunny summer weather.

Since Australia is a big place, there are numerous climates and areas to explore. You can find everything from bone-dry deserts to snow-capped mountains to towering fjords to coral reefs when you're visiting the continent.

Australia Cruise Highlights

Snorkeling or SCUBA diving at the Great Barrier Reef
The world-famous Sydney Opera House
Taking a trip into the fabled Australian Outback
Seeing kangaroos and koala bears in their natural milieu
Exploring the famous Ayers Rock
Wine-tasting excursions that visit local vineyards and wineries

Things to note:

If Australia sounds like your cup of tea, book well in advance because there aren't as many cruises heading down under as in the Caribbean, and good cabins sell out quickly.
If you're leaving from North America, you'll lose a day going over the International Date Line, plus the flight itself takes a day, so you'll need to leave at least two days before the cruise is scheduled to begin (more is better so you have time to get over jet lag and relax).
Cruises are usually 12 to 16 days.
The prime Australia cruise season is from October to March.

Paying for Your Cruise in Advance Can Mean Discounts

2007-11-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

There are a surprising number of ways to get discounts on the price of your cruise. For example, we've talked about special group cruise rates, booking your next cruise while you're still on your last cruise, and saving money by booking extra people into your cabin. These are all ways to get great discounts on cruises.

Now here's one more trick for saving money when booking:

According to Cruise Vacations For Dummies, you can save money by paying in advance.

"Cruise lines love to get your cash as early as possible," the book says. "So some of the pricier lines offer discounts to folks who pay their whole cruise fare ahead of time. Silversea Cruises, for example, offers a 5 percent discount if you pay for your cruise in advance."

It sounds like this particular "cheap cruise" trick may only work for the luxury lines, so I guess RCI and NCL are out, but if anyone has gotten a discount from the mainstream lines by paying early, please let us know in the comments below.

Columbia River Cruise Traces Lewis & Clark Route

2007-11-08T13:30:00.000-08:00

When I first started researching cruises, it didn't even occur to me that there might be ships cruising waterways in my own backyard (I live in Washington state), unless you count the big megaships sailing out of Seattle for Alaska. But I wasn't thinking about river cruises, and we do indeed have some of those in the Pacific Northwest.

If you like the idea of a cruise that is more about relaxation and exploring American history than constant entertainment in the Caribbean, then a cruise that meanders along the Columbia and Snake Rivers might be perfect for you.

Portland Spirit's Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler Company offers a cool cruise that lets you explore the geography, history, and cuisine of the area:

"Step on board the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler and experience history, legend, delicious northwest cuisine and riverboat hospitality. Our captains provide narration on Lewis and Clark, the Oregon Trail, Bridge of the Gods, and riverboats. Join us for a relaxing river cruise and enjoy the sights and history of the Columbia River Gorge."

And you get to do it in a nifty looking ship too.

This particular cruise outfit looks like it only does day cruises on the Columbia, but there are also week-long adventures that sail through both the Columbia and Snake rivers available through the Majestic America Line (the folks who do the Mississippi River cruises I mentioned a while back).

Save Money by Booking Extra People in a Cabin

2007-11-08T10:58:00.000-08:00

Looking for ways to take the cruise of your dreams but not spend the next three years in debt from it?

Well, one way you can save money is by booking more than two people into a cabin. Cruise ships base their rates on two people per cabin, but most of the lines allow more, up to as many as five.

The first two people get the regular fair, but the extras get hefty discounts. And if the "extras" are your kids, there may be further discounts from family-friendly cruise lines.

There's no rule that says three friends can't go and take advantage of this deal either though. As long as you don't mind squeezing a bit (most people don't spend that much time in their cabins when they go on a cruise anyway), everyone can save a bit of money.

Things can get crowded in a small inside cabin, but with more people chipping in to cover costs, you might be able to afford a suite or at least a room with a view to offset the extreme togetherness factor.

Group Cruises Mean Nice Discounts

2007-11-07T21:34:00.000-08:00

If you've love to take a cruise, but it's a bit of a stretch financially, you can save money if you get a group together.

For the cruise lines, a group is generally a minimum of 16 people in 8 cabins. If a lot of cabins are already sold out for a cruise, the line may not offer any sort of discount, but during the slow and shoulder seasons, when it's hard from them to sell all their cabins, they love offering perks to people who can bring in a number of bookings.

In fact, you can often even get a free cruise for the 16th person. (Hey, if you're the one arranging things, there's no reason that can't be you! Or you could always split the discount with the rest of the group... if you're feeling nice.)

Also, if your group is big enough, the cruise line may throw in some other free bonuses such as cabin upgrades, a cocktail party, or on-board credit vouchers you can use in gift shops and other places on the ship.

Just schedule a family reunion or convince a bunch of your friends that they need to get away for a week, and you're set!

Best Islands to Cruise to?

2007-11-07T14:06:00.000-08:00

If islands get you excited (hey, who hasn't dreamed of getting away to a peaceful tropical island and escaping bosses and responsibilities for a while?), then you may want to cruise to some of the better ones. Which are the best islands to visit, you ask?

Well, since it's a subjective question, you'll find differing answers out there, but here are some articles you can check out from around the web:

From MSNBC: Best Island Cruises

Travelers' Digest features a list of Best Islands to Vacation on.

The Condé Nast poll voted Maui the World's Best Island.

And finally Love to Eat and Travel, has lists of the Top 10 Islands divided by region (i.e. Top 10 European Islands, Top 10 Pacific Rim, etc.)

So, what's your favorite island?

Costs of Common Extras on Cruise Ships

2007-11-07T13:29:00.000-08:00

You've probably heard by now that those "all inclusive" cruise price tags only include your basic meals, your cabin, and the cruise itself. That's actually a pretty good deal, as far as vacation packages go, but chances are you'll want to indulge in some of the extras.

So, if you're wondering how much that massage will cost you while you're on the ship, take a look over the list below.

Typical Costs of Cruise Extras

Food

Alternative Dining (meals in the special restaurants on the ship as opposed to eating at the buffets or in the dining hall) -- $10 to $30 per head.

Beverages and Spirits

Beer -- $3.50 to $6
Wine -- $15 to $300 per bottle
Mixed Drinks -- $3.95 to $6.75+
Soft Drinks -- $1.50 to $2.50 (or get an unlimited week-long soda card for $35-$40)

Services

Babysitting -- $8 to $10 an hour (for two kids)
Dry Cleaning -- $2.50 to $7.50 per item
Internet -- $0.50 to $1.50 per minute
Massage -- $99 to $128 (for 50 minutes)
Phone Calls -- $5.95 to $15.95 per minute (though you can often get cell reception on cruise ships nowadays)

Entertainment

Shore Excursions -- $30 to $400+
Casinos -- As much as you want to spend! (no cover charge to get in though)

There you have it. A list of many of the common extras that aren't included in the price of your cruise. So, even if your tickets have been paid for, you're going to want to bring along some spending money!

Source: Cruise Vacations For Dummies

Around the World Cruise Information

2007-11-06T13:42:00.001-08:00

Thinking of taking a round the world cruise? Okay, I'm envious. I'm sure it will be a long time before I can take off on one of those, but I've done some research for you. Here's some basic information on world cruises:

World Cruise Lowdown

Round the world cruises last around 100-115 days.
They usually depart in January.
Many of these cruises are run by luxury lines, and even when lines like Holland America offer them, they're rolling out their best ships.
Entertainment is more sophisticated than you've probably seen on mainstream resort ships (i.e. black-tie galas, themed balls, and specialty parties).
The lines that offer world cruises are Cunnard, Crystal Cruises, Holland America, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Silversea Cruises.
You can expect to visit 35 to 45 different ports on 6 continents, and world cruises often touch down on ports rarely visited by shorter-term cruises.
If the itinerary interests you, but you can't afford the whole trip, you may be able to buy a "segment" and hop on board for 10 days to two weeks.
World cruises are increasing in popularity and often fill up quickly, so book early.
The average age of world cruises is the mid-60s.
All world cruises cross the equator at least twice.
Prices often start around $50,000 per person and go up from there (if you just want to see the world and don't care about the luxury lifestyle, check out freighter travel; you can find world cruises for less than $15,000)
Since round the world cruises are traditionally taken by the affluent, it is possible to get deals on great ships if you'll settle for inside cabins the rich would scoff at (prices can be as low as $150 a day).

Passports Now Required for Caribbean Cruises

2007-11-06T13:34:00.000-08:00

In ye olden days (before 9/11 and heightened security around the world), U.S. citizens could head to Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean without needing a passport.

Alas, those days are gone.

Thanks to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, if you've got a cruise to the Caribbean planned, you will need to get a passport. This includes short weekend trips to the Bahamas too. Any kind of cruise that leaves U.S. waters will require a passport.

But if you're planning to be a frequent cruiser anyway (and many people who cruise once love it and cruise again), it's something you would have needed to take care of eventually anyway. Just remember to do all the paperwork well ahead of time, so your passport will be ready for you when your ship is scheduled to sail.

Kauai Kayak River Tour in Hawaii

2007-11-05T09:28:00.000-08:00

If you're heading off for a cruise to Hawaii, and you're checking out your shore excursion options, there are all sorts of things to see and do on the islands. If you've always wanted to try kayaking, here's a tour that takes you up a river and through the rainforest to a hidden waterfall.

Kauai Kayak River Tour

"Paddle two miles up the north fork of Wailua River to a trailhead where we begin a ¾ mile hike through the rainforest to a 125 foot waterfall."

The excursion has lunch at the waterfall before heading back downriver.

If you've never kayaked before, this sounds like a good trip for beginners: "Now if you are thinking of 'river kayaking,' white water and rapids, on a scale from 1-5 Wailua River is a '0.' So it is a nice calm way to get out on the river and enjoy kayaking and hiking to a secret waterfall."

Available through your cruise or from Aloha Tours (you can often get better rates if you book independently from the cruise ship, though you'll be responsible for finding transportation to the take-out spot).

What do the Dress Codes Mean on a Cruise Ship?

2007-11-05T09:08:00.000-08:00

If you're preparing for a cruise, you may be wondering what clothes to take along. How do you have to dress on board the ship?

Different cruise lines have different standards (Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its freestyle cruising with relatively few requirements), but you'll always be able to relax in whatever you want for your daily activities. Where the dress codes come into place is with dinner dining.

Cruises may have formal nights, informal (or semi-formal nights), or casual nights. Here's the lowdown on each:

Formal nights -- This is big-time dress up time. If your ship has these nights planned, take what you'd wear to a nice wedding, i.e. tuxedos or dark suits for men, or cocktail dresses, gowns, or other fancy digs for women.
Informal/Semi-formal nights -- Think suits or sport jackets and ties for the men and stylish dresses or pants suits for the women.
Casual nights -- Despite the implications of the word casual, this probably means more than a t-shirt and a swimming suit. Consider decent pants and collared shirts for men, and dresses, skirts, or pantsuits for women.

If you enjoy dressing up, you may choose to go to every dinner in fancy digs, but if you hate dressing up (something I can sympathize with) or just don't own a lot of formal clothes, you might want to sail with the freestyle cruise line (NCL), though they still provide opportunities for folks to dress up who want to.

What Are Megaships?

2007-11-04T12:43:00.000-08:00

If you're deciding what kind of cruise ship you'd like to travel upon, you may have come across the term "megaship."

So, what is a megaship?

Well, it's a very big cruise ship. Okay, you want more than that.

The term megaship came into common usage in the late 90s, and it refers to ships that are at least 80,000 GRTs. (GRT stands for gross registered tons, a figure that includes the enclosed, interior, revenue-producing areas on a vessel; 1 GRT represents 100 cubic feet of space). Today today cruise ships can be up to twice that size.

Megaships carry from around 1,750 to 3,000 passengers.

They are designed to give you the all-entertainment-available mega-resort feel with all sorts of activities for families, couples, singles, and just about anybody who enjoys mainstream festivities. These ships usually include fitness centers, swimming pools, casinos, multiple dining venues, theaters, and more.

Most of the ships belonging to the popular cruise lines (Carnival, Celebrity, Costa, Disney, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, and Royal Caribbean) are megaships. In short, these are the big boys you see in the television commercials.

Where Can You Cruise Without a Passport?

2007-11-04T12:16:00.000-08:00

Wondering if there is anywhere in the world you can cruise to without needing a passport?

As I mentioned in "Do You Need a Passport to Cruise," in this era of heightened security, there aren't too many options left. Basically, if you choose a cruise that doesn't leave the waters of your own country, you won't need a passport (you will still need photo ID to board the ship).

For U.S. citizens, an example is Norwegian Cruise Line's Hawaiian cruises that start and end in Honolulu and never leave the islands. However, if you're from the U.S. and you're planning a cruise that visits Mexico, Canada, or the Caribbean Islands you will need a passport as of this year.

Fortunately, it isn't hard or expensive to get a passport. Here is a government site that tells you how to get a passport (in the U.S.).

It does take a little time, so make sure to get started well before your cruise departs.

Do You Have to Pay to Work Out on a Cruise?

2007-11-03T22:07:00.000-07:00

A lot of things are included in the price of your cruise, but there are a lot of things you have to pay extra for too. If you're a first time cruiser with an interest in fitness, you may be wondering out if you'll have to pay to use the gym or go to fitness classes. Here's the lowdown:

Fitness/Gym Costs on a Cruise

The good news is that just using the gym (including weight equipment and cardio machines such as treadmills) is absolutely free.

Fitness classes, on the other hand, can be a different story. Many of the basics are free on a lot of the ships (i.e. stretching and basic aerobics classes), but expect trendier programs to come at a price.

For classes such as spinning, yoga, boxing, tai chi, self-defense, or Pilates, you can expect to pay $10-12 per session. If you're an avid exerciser, you may want to save money by buying a week-long unlimited-fitness-classes pass (available on many cruise lines).

If you're a novice to the gym (or it's been a while since you changed your fitness routine), you may even want to hire a personal trainer. (Hey, you never know when those huge free meals will convince you that it's time to start working out!)

Costs for a personal training session run around $75 to $85. (Now, there's a job I wouldn't mind having... personal trainer on a cruise ship; that's gotta beat working at 24 Hour Fitness.)

So there you have it: while classes and personal trainers cost money, you can hit the gym for free. There's no excuse to gain 5 pounds on your cruise!

How Much Luggage Can You Bring on a Cruise?

2007-11-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

Wondering how many suitcases you can bring on a cruise? (Or maybe how many bags of goodies you can bring home from all the shops you'll visit?)

Each cruise line has it's own policies, and you can usually find out an exact amount by visiting the cruise line's FAQ page (most of them have one on their websites). But I've done the work for you for some of the more popular lines:

Amount Allowed for Suitcases/Luggage on Popular Cruise Lines:

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) allows up to 200 pounds of personal luggage.
Princess says most of their cruises require flight so they just tell you to stick within airline policies for suitcases and weight restrictions (when you book, they tell you what the rules are for the accompanying flight).
Carnival Cruise Line doesn't have a luggage or weight restriction per se but also reminds you that airline restrictions will come into play if you're flying to your port.
Royal Caribbean allows 200 pounds of personal luggage per person.
Holland America has no weight limit but again reminds you that you need to comply with airlines, limousines (boy, wouldn't I like to take a limo to my cruise ship), etc. you may use on the way to the ship.

No Casinos on Cruises to Hawaii?

2007-11-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

If you've signed up for a Hawaiian cruise, hopefully you're not a big gambler.

On most cruises, casinos are a part of the entertainment offered, and they are quite popular with some guests.

You won't find casinos, however, on Hawaii cruises, at least not if you book with NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line). They are the only outfit that does trips that start and end in Hawaii and focus on visiting the islands (usually four separate islands).

This is because the state of Hawaii has a law that says no cruise line can start or end a voyage in Hawaii if it has gaming equipment aboard.

If gambling is important to you, you can book a cruise on another line, but the other lines start on the mainland and sail across the Pacific (a long trip with more days at sea than visiting the islands).

Pay for Ship's Shore Excursions or Find Independent Tours in Hawaii?

2007-11-01T19:45:00.000-07:00

When you take a cruise, the price includes your meals and cabin, but if you want to go on shore excursions, you'll pay extra.

In Hawaii, you probably don't want to miss the good stuff either. We're talking about luaus, helicopter tours, mountain biking down volcanoes, rainforest hikes, cultural center excursions, and all sorts of fun adventures. But the prices can add up.

So can you save money by avoiding the cruise line's shore excursions and signing up on your own? After all, tourism is huge in Hawaii, so equivalents of all those tours must be available for folks who aren't arriving via a cruise ship, right?

Yes and yes.

Here's what a Hawaiian native suggested (someone who has been on 12 Hawaii cruises, so she knows her stuff!):

"Enjoy your cruise (likely with Norwegian Cruise Lines) it is a great way to see each of our islands. Be sure to check out the same shore excursions that they offer direct with the tour operator on line before leaving. Just FYI, like the Old Lahaina Luau is about $100. through the ship and $50.00 direct. Same luau, same seats, etc. Remember, NCL is not a non-profit company they make money where they can. Most all shore excursions can be purchased individually, don't let NCL scare you that only they will get you back to the ship on time. That's silly, these guys do this 3 times a week, they know when the ship sails, it's their business. "

Low Season Offers Good Deals and Fewer Crowds for Hawaii Cruises

2007-11-01T11:19:00.000-07:00

If you've ever wanted to go to Hawaii, a cruise can be a great way to see the islands.

When most people visit Hawaii, they often just go to one island (often Oahu, home of famous Honolulu and Waikiki Beach), due to the hassle of flying between the islands. With a cruise, you'll get to see three or four islands, including spots that are much less crowded than Honolulu.

If you're looking to get a good deal on a Hawaii cruise, booking during the off or "low" season can be a great move. In Hawaii, the low seasons are considered late August, late November, February (minus holiday weeks), and May.

The lovely tropical climate means any time of year is great for sailing in Hawaii. Though months (i.e. January) are rainier than others, the temperatures are always warm, averaging in the 70s even in winter. Winter is a great time for whale watching, too, and since the kids are back in school, you're more likely to find the cruise ships themselves to be a peaceful retreat.

Are Your Meals Included on a Cruise?

2007-10-31T10:59:00.000-07:00

If you're thinking of booking a cruise, you'll probably wonder how many expenses you'll have beyond the initial price of the cruise. For instance, are meals included?

The good news is that your meals are included on a cruise.

However (isn't there always a "however"?), not all beverages are included (everything from sodas to alcoholic drinks are considered "extras" and you'll be charged).

Also, the big resort ships all have "alternative" dining restaurants these days that serve a wider variety of meals than the dining rooms. These restaurants take reservations and can cost anywhere from $10 to $30 a head for meals.

So, yes, your basic meals are included on a cruise, but if you think you'll want to try some exotic extras (like a diet coke), then take some extra money along for food and drink expenditures.

A Cruise for Chocolate Lovers

2007-10-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

Themed cruises can be a lot of fun, and if you're into desserts, here's one for you:

Celebrity Chef Chocoholics Cruise on Costa Mediterranea

Yes, from January 5 - 12, 2008, you can attend a cruise just for chocolate lovers.

Join hosts of the Food Network's compelling "sweets" shows, like Duff Goldman from "Ace of Cakes," Warren Brown from "Sugar Rush" and Colette Peters, owner of Colette's Cakes in New York. Perks include daily presentations and lessons, gift bags, cash prizes, an onboard credit for purchases, and a chance to witness a new "Guinness Book of World Records" entry.

The 7-day eastern Caribbean cruise departs from Fort Lauderdale, and prices start at $1349 per person (inside cabin).

More information on the ship and cruise. (If you miss this year's dates, don't despair; these "chocoholics" cruises tend to be a yearly event.)

Is Smoking Allowed on Cruise Ships?

2007-10-30T10:03:00.000-07:00

If you're a smoker planning a vacation, you may be wondering where (or if) smoking is allowed on cruise ships.

There aren't any completely non-smoking ships. Policies vary depending on the line you cruise with, but you can find designated smoking areas on most ships. Some also have "cigar bars" and lounges (though ships starting or ending in a U.S. port aren't allowed to carry genuine Cuban cigars).

You probably won't be allowed to smoke in your cabin (since cruise ships are all about filling every cabin before they sail, it wouldn't make economic sense for them to designate permanent smoking and non-smoking rooms) , but--depending on the cruise line--if you get a suite with a balcony, then you may be able to smoke directly outside your cabin.

Since policies differ from line to line, make sure to compare different ships you're considering sailing upon if you want the fewest restrictions.

If you're a non-smoker looking to avoid lots of smoking people, in general, ships that sail with a large European or Asian (where smoking is still prevalent) contingent tend to be smokier than ships filled with North Americans.

For lots more information on which lines allow what degree of smoking and wear, check out this article on Cruise Critic.

How Do Casinos Work on Cruise Ships?

2007-10-29T17:22:00.000-07:00

If you enjoy gambling, you might be excited by the idea of playing the casinos while you're cruising from one port to the next on an exotic vacation. But how do casinos work on cruise ships? Do you have to pay? Is it the same as on land?

Here's the lowdown on casinos on cruise ships:

Yes, you do have to pay to play (though there is no charge to enter the casino). As in Las Vegas, the reason these casinos exist is to make money. The House will always have the best odds.
Children under 18 are not allowed in the casino.
Cruise ship casinos are closed in port due to international customs regulations.
Taking photos in the casino is usually not allowed.
German- and Japanese-registered ships don't have casinos that give out cash prizes.
The gambling environment is about entertainment, so don't expect a "hard core" atmosphere.
Examples of games you'll likely find are blackjack, roulette, Caribbean stud poker, craps, and baccarat.
Most cruise lines have demonstrations on how to play the various games, and you can even get lessons.
Yes, there are slot machines too.

Source: Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships

How Do Cruise Loans Work?

2007-10-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

Cruise loans are an increasingly popular way to finance your vacation.

You may be dreaming of taking a luxury cruise, but perhaps it's not in the budget right now. Though cruises are fairly affordable relative to other vacations, the fact that you have to pay upfront can be challenging to some families. That's why cruise loan programs are becoming more popular.

How Cruise Loans Work

Basically, you are given a revolving line of credit to finance the cruise's cost (the same way credit cards work). You are given the option of paying off the loan over 24, 36, or 48 installments (much as car loans and mortgages work).

Cruise Loan Rates

With car loans and mortgages, your car or home backs the loan (meaning if you don't pay, the bank can repossess your car or foreclose on your home), but since that's not the case with a cruise, rates are higher. In fact, they can be a lot higher.

In 2006, the lowest rates for cruise loans were 9% while the highest were a whopping 31%, according to The Unofficial Guide to Cruises.

As they write, "Loans are administered by participating banks that are unaffiliated with the cruise lines. If you obtain the lowest interest rate for cruise loans on a 36-installment loan, the monthly payment for a seven-day cruise costing $5,000 per couple is $161 per month. Multiply the $161 by 36 months to see you'll actually be paying $5,796 for your cruise."

And who ever manages to get the lowest monthly rate, anyway?

As the book says, most people would be better taking out loans on their own instead of going through the cruise loan programs.

13-Day Luxury Cruise to Antarctica

2007-10-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for cruise ideas and want to head someone more exotic than the Caribbean, then perhaps it's time to travel down to Antarctica.

Cruise Norway offers a 13-day vacation on their 2007-built MS Fram, an "intimate luxury ship" where you won't be inundated with masses of people.

"The 2007-built, 318-passenger, 12700-ton exploration ship MS Fram has 8 decks. On board you will find an observation lounge with a passenger bridge, a restaurant and a bistro, a sauna and a jacuzzies, a fitness room and two conference rooms, a shop and an internet cafe, and a library. MS Fram has 136 modern cabins and 39 luxurious suites."

For the Antarctic cruise, you fly to Santiago, then get taken to Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city, where you will depart. You sail through the Drake Passage and then spend five days exploring Antarctica, the White Continent.

Highlights in Antarctica

Half Moon Island and its famous chinstrap penguin rookery, kelp gulls, and Antarctic terns
Whaler's Bay on Deception Island where you'll find warm springs and black volcanic sand
Ukrainian Vernadsky Base and its abundant bird life
Port Lockroy, which is surrounded by mountains, glaciers and ice shelves
Almirante Brown in Paradise Harbor, home of ice cliffs and floating icebergs, populated by gentoo and chinstrap penguins
Neko Harbor off Errera Channel, which supports hundreds of gentoo penguins, Weddell and elephant seals
Petermann Island, home of the southernmost gentoo penguin colony, as well as blue-eyed shags and Adelie penguins

If five days in the Antarctic isn't a long enough trip for you, the company also does 21-day cruises that visit Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands.

Prices for the 13-day luxury program start at USD $4975.

Cruise Norway

How Much Cash Should You Bring Aboard a Cruise?

2007-10-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

Wondering how much spending money to bring along on your cruise?

Actually, you won't need a lot. Oh, there's plenty to spend money on, but most lines use a cashless system aboard the ship. When you check in, you'll get a credit-card-looking thing that will be your room key, identification card, and your swipe card.

Whenever you want to pay for something on board the ship, you just hand over your card to be swiped. This generates a tab that is charged to your credit card at the end of the trip (or you can choose to pay the balance off on the last day with cash, traveler's checks, etc.).

So, you don't need cash aboard the cruise ship itself (though you will want to be careful not to run up too much of a tab!), but of course you'll need some for going off the ship at various ports of call. In most places, though, you can use your credit card (which is often safer anyway), so you don't need to bring a lot of cash along on your cruise vacation.

Cruise Discounts for Senior Citizens?

2007-10-25T17:30:00.000-07:00

Are seniors eligible for discounts on cruises?

The short answer is: YES.

Since seniors have long been the backbone of the cruise market, cruise lines often offer good deals. You don't even have to be retired to take advantage of them. If you are 55 or older, just about all the lines will give you a discount.

(Note, only one person in the cabin needs to be 55 or older, so if you're planning a mother/daughter trip or some such then you can still get the senior discount.)

The discount varies depending on the cruise line, as does the inclusion of airfare. Just ask your travel agent or the cruise line directly about what kind of deals they have for seniors.

Also, if you are a member of AARP (American Association of Retired Persons), Carnival and some other lines have additional discounts.

How Do You Get a Free Cabin Upgrade on a Cruise?

2007-10-25T16:18:00.000-07:00

You've probably heard that it's sometimes possible to get a free or deeply discounted cabin upgrade on a cruise.

This is true, though it isn't quite the sure thing some travel agents or websites would have you believe. Today's cruise ships are often sailing at 100% capacity and it can be hard to get cabin upgrade deals, especially during peak season. That said, there are some tricks you can try to get a deal on an outside cabin or a suite with a balcony without paying the full price:

1. Look for advertised (or unadvertised) specials

On specific sailings, cruise lines will have specials that include free or cheap cabin upgrades. These are often only advertised to travel agents though (which is why it often pays to book with a travel agent).

These specials allow you to buy the cheapest fare and be upgraded from one to five cabin levels.

2. Find "soft sailing' upgrades

During the off-season and on cruises to less popular destinations, a ship is sometimes expected to sail with less than full capacity. When you book early and choose the least expensive cabin during the low- or shoulder-season, you may be able to get an upgrade if the more expensive cabins fill up.

For a better shot, book early and choose a ship with relatively few inside cabins (you can study ship deck plans online). However, with today's high occupancy rates, it can be hard to get these kind of upgrades even during the low season.

3. Look for guarantees on sold-out cabins

If you request a sold-out cabin category when you book your cruise, the line will offer a guarantee, promising you the category you wanted or better. Since these guarantees are only offered when then cruise is sold-out or over-sold in the requested category, odds are in your favor for getting an upgrade at no additional cost.

4. Look for inexpensive paid upgrades

You may not always be able to find a free cabin upgrade, but you improve your odds of getting a deal by also looking for paid upgrades that don't cost much.

A number of cruise lines sell upgrades for as little as $15 per person, especially for soft sailings.

Source: The Unofficial Guide to Cruises

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

2007-10-25T16:02:00.000-07:00

If you're thinking of taking a cruise vacation, you're probably wondering "how much do cruises cost?"

This is actually a hard question to answer, since there is such a wide variety of cruises out there. Price depends on a number of factors:

Length of cruise (you can find 3- and 4-day weekend cruises or you can sail around the world for months)
Destination (some locales are cheap compared to others; the Caribbean is inexpensive, for example, while Alaska and the Mediterranean can be twice as much)
Type of ship (big resort ships tend to give you a good deal for your money and can be deeply discounted, while smaller luxury cruises are rarely discounted. Also small and mid-sized adventure ships cost more)

Despite all the factors involved, it's pretty easy to find a cruise for every budget. Cruises cost less than many mainland vacations since so much is included (meals, travel, entertainment, and your cabin).

You can find a one-week cruise to the Caribbean starting at $700 or less per person. (Weekend getaways start around $200.)

Buy Early or Buy Late for the Best Discounts

2007-10-24T20:50:00.000-07:00

If you're looking to save money on a cruise, there are two strategies you can take:

Buy early or buy late.

The biggest discounts for cruises are typically given for buying early (right after the cruises are listed--at least four to eight months before sailing) and for buying late (during the last six weeks when cruise lines are dropping rates to make sure cabins fill up).

If you're a first-time cruiser and there's a set time when you want to take your vacation, you'll definitely find the most peace of mind by taking the book-early route. That way you'll know everything is taken care of and you won't feel stressed wondering if you'll be able to find a good cruise deal as the days tick closer to your vacation time.

If you're an experienced cruiser and/or you are flexible about when you can take a trip, you may also find good discount cruise deals by booking last minute cruises. However, any time you wait until the last minute, you seriously decrease your odds of getting a good cabin, dining room seating, and the airline routing and prices you prefer.

It really depends on your personality and what's important to you. If you know you won't be spending much time in your cabin, it may be just fine that the view is blocked by the life boats.

Those are the two best ways to save money and get great cruises at discount prices though: book early or book late.

Small Ship Cruising Leaves the Crowds Behind

2007-10-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

If you've been on one of the big resort ships that carry thousands of passengers and you weren't that crazy about the crowded ports and the masses of people waiting to disembark, then maybe it's time to experience another form of sea vacation: small ship cruising.

Small-ship or "niche" cruising can take you into the small ports, hidden coves, and narrow channels that the big boys can't access. The focus is often on destinations and in-depth itineraries rather than 24/7 entertainment on board the ship. Instead of being encouraged to gamble at the casino, you'll be invited to attend lectures offered by history, geography, culture, and wildlife experts who will give you insight into the destinations you're visiting.

Who cruises on small ships?

If you're wondering who you might meet on board, here's a look at some of the typical small-ship cruising passengers:

They are generally well-traveled and well-educated.
They want to immerse themselves in the history and lore of the destinations.
They are often baby boomers or folks in early retirement.
The passengers tend to be somewhat active and adventurous (to enjoy the variety of available shore excursions, trips that often eschew shopping for adventure and sightseeing).
They enjoy the relaxed, informal environment aboard most small ships.

If this sounds like you, some of the small-ship cruise lines you can look into are Star Clipper, Windjammer, Clipper Cruise Line, and Discovery World Cruises.

Make sure to book early, especially if you're traveling during peak season, as these smaller ships have fewer cabins and may fill up early.

What Is Freighter Travel?

2007-10-23T11:48:00.001-07:00

Freighter travel is an alternative to traditional cruising.

It's where you book a trip on a commercial freighter that is delivering it's cargo from one destination to another. You won't find casinos, theaters, and other entertainment venues on freighters, and don't expect to stop for lots of shopping and guided shore excursions. (You'll have chances to go ashore, but you'll be on your own!) Also, freighter trips tend to be longer, and you can expect to spend 30, 60, or even 90 days at sea.

So, why would you consider a trip on a freighter?

There are lots of reasons these types of "cruises" intrigue people, and any one of them may appeal to you:

Freighters roam the globe and stop at famous and exotic industrial ports that are usually far removed from the touristy areas of cities.
On a per diem basis, they cost less than traveling on cruise ships (you can roam the wold for months for as little as $90 a day and unlike on cruise ships, there are few opportunities to spend extra money).
Freighter travel is relaxed with a carefree informal environment.
Companies that allow freighter travel rarely advertise in mainstream venues, so you'll get to experience something few people have heard of and most have never done.
You'll be one of only a handful of passengers (12 is the maximum allowed on transportation vessels), and you'll dine with the actual ship's crew.
Instead of being on some pristine cruise ship made for entertainment, you'll be able to wander amongst stacks of metal containers (much like railroad box cars).
You'll easily find quiet nooks where you can relax with a stack of books or perhaps hit up other people for a game of bridge.

Other resources for freighter travel:

http://www.geocities.com/freighterman.geo/
http://www.gonomad.com/transports/0011/miniguide_freighter_voyage.html

Antarctica Cruise Season Starts Soon

2007-10-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

An Antarctica cruise could be just the adventure you're looking for this winter.

(And when I say winter, I mean winter in the northern hemisphere when it's actually summer down in Antarctica.)

No, you won't find the palm trees, sandy beaches, lust rain forests, or the scuba and snorkeling opportunities of Hawaii, Mexico, or the Caribbean. In fact, Antarctica is the windiest, coldest, and driest spot on earth. Whether you're coming from South America, Africa, or Australia, the ocean crossing will almost always be a rough one. Once you get there, there aren't any shops or entertainment venues, and the tourist season is less than four months long (with cruises often only findable in January and February). The rest of the year is very cold and very, er, dark.

So why on earth would anyone want to cruise to Antarctica?

It's all about seeing exotic wildlife and having an adventure few of your friends will ever experience.

Since there are virtually no tourist amenities on the continent, a cruise ship is the best way to see Antarctica too. Most of the wildlife occupy the narrow ice-free ridges of coastline around the mainland and its islands, so you'll have a front row seat to watch the antics of the land and air creatures.

Examples of wildlife you can see include penguins, seals, whales, and birds such as the albatross, cormorant, skua, sheathbill, petrel, fulmar, tern, and of course gulls.

For more on cruises to Antarctica and the continent itself, check out these resources:

About.com
A Surveyor's Cruise Adventure

Are Cruises Good for Honeymoons?

2007-10-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

If you're planning your honeymoon, it's hard to imagine a better vacation than a cruise.

Really.

Imagine the romance of balmy nights and sun-filled days in beautiful destinations such as the South Pacific, the Caribbean, or the Mediterranean.

On a cruise, you don't have to worry about driving anywhere, and you only have to unpack once. You get to leave the hassles at home and truly enjoy your honeymoon.

Your cabin can be your honeymoon suite, and since room service is complimentary, you never have to leave if you don't want to. A room with a balcony lets you enjoy each other's company in private even as you gaze out at the islands and ports you visit.

If you do want to venture out of your room, many cruise lines will provide you with a romantic dinner table for two in the dining hall (advance noticed usually required, but your travel agent can handle that).

Newlyweds can expect other preferential treatment too (after all, the cruise lines are hoping you'll become customers for life and cruise with them again and again) such as a bottle of Champagne, flowers in your room, free photos, or maybe even a free cabin upgrade.

Planning tips:

Since many cruises leave on Sundays, they can be a perfect getaway after a Saturday wedding.

Some cabins do come with bathtubs instead of showers, so if you want to soak with your partner, request one of those rooms ahead of time.

Work with a travel agent, who can handle all the details for you.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Lowdown

2007-10-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

Are all cruise lines created the same? Do they all offer the same sort of vacation?

Well, no.

While there are similarities, especially among the big resort ship lines, there are a lot of differences too and this section of the blog will look at the various cruise lines and see who does what well and what might make one line appeal to you more than another.

Let's start out with a big gun...

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

This Miami-based 14-ship line is known for its freestyle cruising. The ships have a casual, laid-back atmosphere, and the line is gay-friendly.

The manifesto is diverse, and you'll find families, honeymooners, and couples. The guests tend to be younger than on other mainstream lines, but you'll find folks of all ages on board.

No formal-wear required!

With this casual cruise line it shouldn't come as any surprise that a lot of the traditional rules are thrown out the door. Formal-wear isn't required for dining, and if you want to relax 24/7 nobody is going to stop you. Kick back and hit the bowling alley or just lounge in a deck chair with a good book.

Despite the casual atmosphere, service is good overall though. You can also find family-friendly interconnected suites (as much as you love your kids, you probably don't want them all crammed into your cabin) or if you want to spend a little more, "villa" accommodations with private gardens, sun decks, living and dining rooms, and butler service.

NCL is an affordable cruise line and you'll find prices starting around $429 for Caribbean cruises.

Can You Get Good Deals Shopping in the Caribbean?

2007-10-21T17:56:00.000-07:00

If you like to shop, a cruise can be a great opportunity to spend money. You're visiting lots of different ports, often different countries, and you'll never have to go far to find shops. In fact, there are lots of shopping opportunities just on board the ship.

But are you going to find good deals?

Well, maybe.

Let's say you're taking a cruise to the Caribbean, a popular destination for U.S. ships and one that is known to be a shopping mecca. Here's the lowdown on what kind of deals you can find:

In the Caribbean, you can expect to save 20% on French perfumes and well-known brands such as Gucci, Fendi, and Vuitton. Be wary of prices lower than that since dealers of luxury brands will be dropped from distribution if they're caught undercutting. If a deal seems to good to be true, it's probably a knock-off.

Also be wary if during the port talks, they recommend certain stores in port, as they may be getting a cut. Deals in the ship's shops aren't necessarily that great either.

In truth, you can usually find as good of--or better--deals shopping in your discount stores and factory outlets back home as in the Caribbean.

That said, one area where you can get some good deals is when it comes to cigarettes and liquor.

The prices aren't necessarily lower but in the U.S. and many other countries these items are taxed heavily, so in the Caribbean you can get them for less.

Now before you consider buying something illegal (I know that wouldn't cross your mind, but I've got to put this notice out for good measure), know that your packs and bags will be searched for security before you are allowed back on the cruise ship.

Can You Use U.S. Dollars in the Caribbean?

2007-10-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

If you're an American planning a cruise to the Caribbean, you may be wondering if you need to exchange money or if U.S. dollars will work on the various islands you'll visit. Since each port you'll stop in is in a different country, it would certainly get confusing trying to exchange dollars for all those different kinds of currencies.

The good news is that U.S. dollars are accepted throughout most of the Caribbean.

You can also use traveler's checks and credit cards in most places. So there's really no need to change your money for the island's currency unless you want some colorful souvenir bills to bring back home.

Are Cruise Ships Wheelchair Accessible?

2007-10-19T14:48:00.000-07:00

If you're planning your first cruise and you use a wheelchair or other mobility aid, you are probably wondering if the ships are handicap accessible.

On older ships--and sometimes on smaller ships--this can be a problem. Not all public restrooms, showrooms, and dining rooms are wheelchair accessible. Some small ships do not have elevators, and on older ships not all elevators service all floors.

Newer (built within the last few years), larger ships should all be up to standards, so this may be the way to go if you have mobility concerns. Newer ships are designed so that you won't have trouble getting around if you are in a wheelchair.

However, you will probably need to bring your own wheelchair on most ships. The cruise line may require one that is collapsible or narrow-gauge.

Wheelchair-accessible cabins are limited, so make sure to book early.

You may also want to look for a ship with a lot of elevators relative to the passenger compliment. A higher elevator ratio will mean less time waiting in lines.

If you use a wheelchair and will not be traveling with a companion to aid you, you may want to bring along a collapsible pointer or some means to extend your reach. This lets you reach elevator buttons, light switches, and higher storage spaces in your cabin.

Source: The Unofficial Guide to Cruises

What Are Repositioning Cruises?

2007-10-19T13:41:00.000-07:00

If you're looking to save money, a repositioning cruise can make a great vacation.

What are repositioning cruises?

These trips take place at the end of one cruise season and the beginning of another in a different part of the world. The ship must sail from the old area to the new area, and you can sign up to be on board when she does.

Because repositioning cruises are more about covering ground (er, water) than stopping at every port along the way, you spend more days at sea than with traditional cruises. This can be very relaxing since you're not worrying about what you're going to do and see every day when you're in a new city or even country. You will still stop at some ports, but expect a higher ratio of at-sea days to at-port days in your trip.

Since the ships have so much entertainment on board, many people even prefer these types of cruises, because there is more time to just enjoy the ship's amenities.

Also, one of the big perks of repositioning cruises is that they are cheaper than regular ones. Because they only happen a couple times a year, the trips are harder for the cruise lines to promote. Thus the often deep discounts.

This can make repositioning cruises great vacation deals, and you still get the good food and all the on board activities you want to partake in.

Examples of Repositioning Cruises

In late April, at the end of the Caribbean "high season" cruise lines such as Princess and Holland America reposition some of their ships by sailing them from the Caribbean to Alaska where the summer cruise season is about to begin.

Around the same time other cruise lines reposition some of their ships from the Caribbean to Europe or the Mediterranean.

As you can imagine, these cruises can be a great way to see parts of the world you wouldn't normally see and get a great deal while doing it.

Book Your Next Cruise During Your Current One to Save Money

2007-10-18T14:38:00.000-07:00

Cruises offer a great value for your vacation dollar, but there ways to get even better deals than the ones printed in brochures or posted on the Internet. For instance, repeat cruisers can get some excellent deals.

Want to save big money on your next vacation?

Consider booking your next cruise while on board your current cruise.

Cruise lines love to give discounts to people who sign up to vacation with them again. So if you like the experience you're getting, see what kind of deals you can get for signing up for another trip.

(Just because you go with the same cruise line doesn't mean you have to go on the same vacation. The big cruise lines have ships running all over the world, so you can sign up for a trip to Alaska or South America even if your current cruise is in the Caribbean.)

What if you're already back from your cruise and you didn't take advantage of the cheap deals you can get by booking while you're still on board?

You can still get great deals if you're a previous customer of a certain line. Some lines even offer free cruises after you've taken enough trips with them. Just ask your travel agent or check out specials on the cruise line's website.

So when you're trying to justify your next vacation, just remember that a great way to save money on cruises is to take lots of trips!

Should You Use a Travel Agent to Book a Cruise?

2007-10-18T14:10:00.000-07:00

In today's Internet-connected world, it's easier than ever to plan a vacation and book airfare and hotels without ever talking to another human being. The cruise world is no exception. Sites like Travelocity make it easy for you to sign up for cruises online.

But should you?

You might be under the impression that you can save a lot of money by booking online instead of using a travel agent. In truth, travel agents can get you some great deals and help you decipher some of the mysteries of the cruise world. If you're a first time cruiser, in particular, you might not be entirely sure what terms like "inside cabin" and "outside cabin" or "main seating" and "late seating" mean.

Here are some perks to working with a travel agent:

Travel agents can help singles get the best deals (often travel agents book blocks of cabins and they can set you up with an acceptable roommate to ensure you get the best prices).
They know all the cabin lingo and can help you find one that isn't by the anchor, under clubs, or by elevators (all noisy spots) or has the view obstructed by life boats.
They get daily updates on exclusive deals, so they may have access to prices and specials that aren't listed on websites.
They'll know if it's possible for you to get a free cabin upgrade.
Reputable travel agents will honor a lower fare if the price drops between the time you book and the time you step on board (that's something you won't get if you book online).
They will inform the chef of any food allergies or special meal requests you might have.
Travel agents check your documents and make sure you have everything in order.

If you do decide to book through a travel agent, make sure to choose someone who specializes in cruises. They'll be the most "in the loop" when it comes to knowing all the best deals and specials going on.

You can find a good cruise travel agent in your area through the CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) website:

http://www.cruising.org/TravelAgents/index.cfm

Are Massages Included in the Price of a Cruise?

2007-10-17T22:33:00.000-07:00

There are lots of ways to have fun and relax on a cruise ship, and massages and other spa treatments are very popular.

If you're planning your first cruise, you may be wondering if massages are included in the price of the trip. After all, cruises are "all inclusive" right? Well, they do include your cabin, meals, and the trip itself, but for extra luxuries you'll have to pay extra.

On most ships, you will have to pay extra for massages and other spa treatments. Prices generally are comparable to land prices or maybe a little more (about $80 an hour is normal).

So if you're planning on enjoying a massage on one of your sea days, make sure to set aside some extra spending money. Also, book early as appointments can fill up rapidly. (On some ships, you can actually reserve a spot before the cruise even starts.)

Pros and Cons of Disney Cruises

2007-10-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

If you're a Disney fan or you've got kids who are and you're looking for a family vacation everyone will enjoy, you may be checking out the Disney Cruise Line.

Disney's cruises feature "modern ocean liners with classic steamship lines" (which is code for: these ships are big enough to put tons of people on them). The company offers family-oriented mainstream cruises that are combined with a Walt Disney World vacation. Obviously kids are the emphasis, but kids of all ages can enjoy the trips.

Before you book your vacation, you may be wondering about some of the advantages and disadvantages of the cruise line. Here's a closer look:

Disney Cruises Pros

The staff is friendly and conscientious.
You've got name recognition that your kids will get excited about.
The innovative ships are just plain fun.
You'll probably cruise to Disney's private island, which is excellent compared to other line's islands.
Plenty of children's facilities (and babysitting so mom and dad can get away for a break)
There's a nice variety in dining venue and presentation.
The family cabins are roomy enough for all.

Disney Cruises Cons

You might get sick of the "Disney overdose."
Expect loud and intrusive public announcements.
You might find the children's programs are too regimented.
The cruise can be uneven in quality.
Some have complained about an unnecessary pressure to leave the ship on disembarkation.

As you can see, there are not too many cons, and Disney is generally considered an excellent choice for a family cruise. The line is recommended for families with kids or grandchildren, though anyone who is a kid at heart can enjoy the cruises. But if you're not "enraptured" by Disney, this may not be the vacation for you.

Source: The Unofficial Guide to Cruises

How Much Do Shore Excursions Cost?

2007-10-16T19:48:00.000-07:00

You can spend a lot of extra money on shore excursions if you're not careful.

It's true that cruises have "all-inclusive" pricing, but that refers to the cruise itself, your cabin, basic entertainment, and meals on board the ship. If you want to take tours or go on adventures when you reach different ports of call, you'll pay extra (unless you want to go off and explore yourself which is a possibility in many areas).

So, how much do shore excursions cost?

It depends, of course, on where in the world you're cruising and also on what you want to do.

In the Caribbean, standard half-day shore excursions run $25-$35. In Europe and Alaska, they can cost twice that much. Adventure shore excursions cost more because groups are smaller and they cost more per person to operate. Expect to pay $50 and up for half-day adventure tours and $70-$150 for full-day excursions. Exotic tours, such as helicopter rides, cost $200 and up.

Do Cruise Ships Have Laundry Facilities?

2007-10-16T19:32:00.001-07:00

If you're packing for your first cruise, you may be wondering if you'll be able to do laundry on the ship.

After all, you need to take a lot more clothes if you need new clothes for every day of your trip (well, let's hope you're changing daily anyway). If you're going for a multi-week cruise, laundry becomes even more of a concern.

The good news is that almost all ships have laundry facilities. (Ask ahead of time if you're booking a cruise on a small ship.) Fewer ships have dry cleaning service.

When it comes to laundry, don't expect to do it yourself. (Why would you want to on vacation anyway?) Some do have public laundry facilities, but in most you'll have the staff do it.

You'll find price lists in your cabin. Just give clothing to be washed to your steward (they can also press clothing). Items are usually returned in a day, but for additional cost you can get same-day service

Laundry service is generally good and reasonably priced, but the ship laundries are known to use a lot of bleach.

What if I Get Seasick?

2007-10-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

If you're thinking cruises sound fun, but you haven't signed up for one because you're afraid of getting seasick, I may be able to quell some of your fears:

1. Most people don't get seasick on cruises, even if they get queasy in a car (stabilizers on ships keep the ride pretty smooth).

2. Over-the-counter medications such as Bonine and Dramamine (both available in non-drowsy formulas) can get you past the first few hours of acclimatization.

3. If you aren't into drugs, you can try Sea Bands, elasticized wristbands with little plastic disks that apply pressure inside the wrist (this is an acupressure point and many people swear by the bands' effectiveness).

4. Consider booking a cruise in calm waters such as the Caribbean, Alaska's Inside Passage, the Mediterranean, or the Gulf of Mexico. (Save the cruises through the South China Sea, the Pacific, the Atlantic, and Indian Oceans until you're sure you won't have troubles--these are less calm rides).

What Is the Best Time of Year to Cruise?

2007-10-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

One of the beautiful things about cruise vacations is that you can find cruises departing for exciting destinations year around. There really is no "best time of year to cruise" because there are always ships departing.

If you want to take a trip next week, you can find a last minute cruise to sign up for. If you want to plan a trip for next winter, you can also find a cruise to book.

It really just depends on the destination you have in mind. Naturally some places have limited cruise seasons (most people want good weather for their trips).

For example, if you want to cruise to Alaska, you'll need to book a trip in the summer, between May and September. If you've always wanted to see the nature and wildlife of Antarctica, you'll have to visit in January or February (which is summer down there). What if you just want to head some place tropical? You can take a cruise to the Caribbean any time of year.

For more on when you can cruise where, check out my earlier post that lists Cruising Seasons for Popular Cruise Destinations.

Top 10 Cruise Myths Debunked

2007-10-14T14:45:00.001-07:00

Over the last couple of weeks, I've been going through a lot of the "myths" and misconceptions people have about cruises. If you're dreaming of taking a cruise vacation and having a hard time convincing your significant other or a friend to go with you, then direct them this way. It may just be they're not aware of how cool modern cruising is and what a great vacation it can be no matter what their interests are.

Here's a recap of the list of 10 cruise myths I've covered:

There you have it. 10 cruise myths debunked.

If there's anything else you want to add, feel free to comment below!

Cruise Myth #10: Cruising is Only for the Wealthy

2007-10-14T14:36:00.000-07:00

Do you only get to cruise if you're rich?

Heck no.

According to the CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), fully half of today's cruisers have household incomes under $60,000 a year.

Prices are very competitive, especially considering cruises are all-inclusive, meaning your cabin, entertainment, and meals are included. This makes cruising more affordable than other vacation options. In many cases, you may even spend less than you would taking a road trip and renting a cabin by the lake (just consider the price of gasoline these days).

Today, cruises are departing from more ports than ever as well, so if you live near the coast, you may not even have to pay for airfare.

In other words, you definitely don't have to be rich to take a cruise.

If money is a concern, know you can get some great deals by booking well in advance (as soon as the cruise is opened up for bookings) or at the last minute (great for people who can pick up and leave on a moment's--or at least a couple weeks'--notice).

Will I Have to Pay Port Charges on a Cruise?

2007-10-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

If you've been researching cruises, you may have learned that "all inclusive" price quotes aren't quite as all inclusive as they sound.

You can expect the price of a cruise to include the trip, your cabin, and three square meals a day. Extras (including drinks, massages, and shore excursions) will usually cost you extra.

But you're wondering what are port charges and will you have to pay them?

Port charges are taxes the cruise lines are charged for using the ports they dock in. The fees are determined by the government of each country your ship is visiting. Port charges will be higher on longer trips that stop at more destinations. As an example, the taxes can range from $120 to $200 or more on a 7-day cruise to the Caribbean, depending on the itinerary.

That's all well and good, but you probably just want to know if you'll have to pay extra for these fees or if they're covered.

The good news is that port charges are usually included in the price of your cruise. There are exceptions, however, so it pays to read the fine print carefully, especially if you find a cruise price that seems too good to be true.

If you book with a travel agent, they can easily find out for you.

List of Cruising Seasons for Popular Cruise Destinations

2007-10-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

Wondering when you can cruise where? Here's a list of cruising seasons for several popular destinations around the world:

Africa

Cruises head to Africa year around but the high seasons are considered May - October for northern Africa and November - April for eastern and southern Africa.

Alaska

Since the weather is cold much of the year, cruises only run from May - September.

Asia and the Orient

The cruise season runs October - March.

Baltic

Cruises to the Baltic Sea run from May - October.

Bermuda

Bermuda is also popular from May - October.

Black Sea

You can find cruises through the Black Sea from April - October.

Canada

Like Alaska, you'll find mostly summer-time sailings here: May - October.

Caribbean

Thanks to its tropical climate, you can find cruises to the Caribbean all year around.

Hawaii

Again, ships sail all year around to the Hawaiian Islands.

India and Southeast Asia

You can book cruises all year around, but the high season is from November - April, and you'll find more variety then.

Mediterranean Sea

Again, you can find cruises all year around but the majority sail from March - November.

Mexico

This warm climate also features sailings all year around.

New England

May - October is when you'll find cruises to New England.

Panama Canal

Bookings run year around, but due to the summer heat, more cruises are offered September - May.

South America

For the north coast, you can find sailings all year around. For other areas, the season runs from September - April.

South Pacific

Cruises are offered year around with the high season from November - April.

Best Time of Year for a Caribbean Cruise?

2007-10-12T15:18:00.000-07:00

Cruises follow the sun, and in the tropical Caribbean climate, that means you can find a trip pretty much all year around. But some times of year are considered off-season, while others are high-season.

If you cruise during the off-season, you can get great deals; on the other hand, if you cruise at the most popular time of year, expect to pay more.

The "high season" in the Caribbean (i.e. when you can expect good weather, when most people want to take vacations, and when you'll pay more) runs from Christmas to the middle of April and again from June 15th through August 15th. (Weather is actually better in the winter than in the summer, but since children are out of school in the summer, that creates a lot of demand during those months.)

Want to save money on your trip?

For Caribbean cruises, prices are quite low the first two weeks right after the Christmas/New Year holidays, so if you can shift your vacation back a bit, you can save big time.

Cruising with Food Allergies

2007-10-12T14:28:00.000-07:00

Do you have food allergies or food intolerances?

I do, so you can bet I'm looking into what it's like cruising with special dietary needs.

How well will the chefs accommodate your food allergies? Will you have to order special at every meal? Can you just tell them ahead of time and not have to worry about alerting a waiter at each individual meal?

I will post specific answers to some of these questions once I've taken my first cruise, but in the mean time I'm posting some ideas from a nice guide I found (link below). Also, I invite you to share your comments if you have food allergies and you've cruised.

I'm supposed to avoid gluten and dairy, which are huge ones, since wheat in particular tends to creep into, well, almost everything. Fortunately my intolerances aren't life-threatening; I just get sick (I'll spare you the details), which is of course preferable to avoid, but if you're one of the folks who gets deathly ill, you'll definitely want to be careful.

A very helpful guide on dealing with food allergies on cruises suggests the following:

Book your cruise with a trusted travel agent rather than through the Internet. Have the agent fax the cruise line (including CC to the Head Chef) at the time of your deposit.
List all your food allergies. If lots of foods cause allergic reactions, also consider including a list of foods that don't cause any reaction. This will help the chef plan his menu for you.
Choose the set dining times instead of freestyle dining. The assigned tables let your waiter and the Maitre D get to know you and assist you better at every meal.
It's a good idea to avoid the buffet area, as the ingredients are not easily available. Buffet lines also can be risky since utensils are often moved from a dish that is dangerous to you to a dish that looks safe.
Take any medication and medical information in your carry-on bag.
If your allergies are severe, make sure to take your Epi-pen and oral Benadryl with you on shore excursions. If you sign up for a full day tour, ask for a ³box lunch² to take, so you'll know there's something you can eat.

I don't know about you, but I'm hoping for the day when all restaurants and buffets (on land as well as cruises) list all the ingredients on the menus Whole Foods style.

Golfing at Mahogany Run in the Virgin Islands

2007-10-10T13:54:00.001-07:00

You might not think a cruise vacation would be all about golfing, but if you're a golf fanatic, chances are you'll find some great opportunities to try out new courses.

If you're cruising in the Caribbean and your ship is stopping at St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, look for a shore excursion to Mahogany Run. What could be better than golfing on a course with the sea breeze ruffling your hair and views of the water everywhere you look? (I don't even play and it sounds lovely to me!)

Mahogany Run Information

Designed by Tom and George Fazio
Known as "one of the most beautiful courses in the West Indies"
18 hole, par-70 course
Challenging rises and drops "like a roller coaster on its journey to the sea"
Golf Digest proclaimed it more of an engineering marvel than an architectural one as the course had to be carved and blasted into an area of land just less than 110 acres.
Green fees = $130 if you go by yourself, shore excursion (which includes the 20-30 minute ride there) runs about $170

Mahogany Run

Shark Feeding in Tahiti Anyone?

2007-10-10T13:39:00.000-07:00

When you're deciding where to book a cruise, one of the funnest parts is deciding which shore excursions you're going to go on. The shore excursions may even help you decide where in the world you want to cruise.

Do you want to dog sled in Alaska? See Mayan ruins in Mexico? Or perhaps feed sharks and rays in the South Pacific?

If the latter sounds exciting to you (it sounds dangerous to me, but I guess I'm not all that adventuresome), then you might just want to check out a shark feeding shore excursion in Tahiti.

Here's part of the description from an outfit that does shark and ray feeding tours:

"...the skipper's first mate jumps into the water and secures a floating rope. Everyone will be instructed to hold onto the rope floating "face down" with their snorkel gear on. The skipper checks to make sure everyone is safely on their side of the rope (which is of paramount importance) as he pulls out the shark food. You wait with anticipation as the sharks come out, one after the other, to rip and tear up the bait. The sharks may give you a demo of their amazing sonar as they swim directly towards you and, at the very last second, make a sharp turn away from you. The only thing between you and them is the rope and your heartbeat."

So, are you feeling lucky?

More on this particular tour at Tahiti Legends.