That is the question a lot of first time cruisers ask themselves. For some, the thought of being stuck on a ship for several days is a bit of a scary thought – what will we do for all that time? What if the people aren’t our kind of people? What if we get seasick? What’s better value – cruising or a stay-put holiday?
Here are 8 reasons why cruising is a great travel option:
- Multiple destinations yet unpack once
A cruise allows you to visit several destinations but you don’t have to worry about packing and unpacking, checking in and out of hotels or trying to find somewhere good to eat each time you arrive somewhere new. There is definitely something to be said for arriving in a new city and just having a day bag to worry about.
- All-Inclusive pricing
Depending on which cruise line you choose, your fare will include your transportation and meals on-board. Some cruise lines also include some or all beverages, shore excursions, room service, butler service, gratuities and more. Be sure to check what is included as some cruises that appear to be more expensive actually work out to be better value when you add up the extras you may be paying on top of the actual fare. In any case, having all your meals included in a big bonus. And generally speaking, dining on-board is an experience in itself with chefs serving up an array of tantalising meals every day.
- No driving or buses
One of the most tiring parts of travel is getting between destinations – navigating and driving strange roads, or long bus rides means you’re tired before you even get there. Cruise itineraries will usually have you arriving in port early morning and departing in the evening so while you are tucked up having a good night’s sleep, your crew are doing all the hard work for you. The only reason you may be a bit jaded upon arriving into port is if you’ve been partying the night away!
- Assistance with excursions
Seeing the best a destination has to offer can sometimes take a lot of research and effort to first find a reputable tour company and then making bookings for several ports. The cruise lines have extensive experience with the local operators – they know which ones are reliable, who can be trusted to do a great job and they have ongoing contracts so they’re not going to be let down. The crew can give valuable advice on the various ports and will make all your bookings for you. Easy! And if you don’t want to book an excursion, but just do your own thing, the crew have plenty of local knowledge they can share with you to ensure you make the most of your time.
- Meeting other people
Cruising gives you the opportunity to meet new people. It doesn’t mean you have to live in their pockets, but many a time these meetings turn into lifelong friendships. Cruising is a great option for those travelling alone.
- Activities
We’ve heard numerous first time cruisers wonder what they’re going to do on those “At Sea” days. The second, third (or more!) time cruisers always want more At Sea days because there is so much to do, you never have enough time to fit it all in, let alone relax as much as you want to! From informative lectures, to spa treatments, photography workshops and more, there is plenty to keep you entertained on-board!
- On-board experts
If you’re travelling on an expedition cruise, there will likely be on-board experts who will give lectures on their given field of expertise. In Antarctica, having a marine biologist on hand to identify what species you’re seeing or having a photographer ready to assist you to get the perfect shot is invaluable.
- Go where others don’t
Cruise lines will often access areas where tourist buses just can’t get to. Particularly true for smaller ships which are able to navigate close into shore, cruise passengers can get up close to waterfalls or into special coves and deserted islands that others cannot access. Smaller cruise ships will also be able to detour or pause if there is a wildlife encounter, for example, to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
We have a huge range of cruises available through Ultimate Cruising. Whether it is luxury expedition cruising, river cruising, themed cruises, one-way voyages, world cruises … we can help. Talk to our cruise experts and let us put together a fabulous itinerary for you.
Image: Windstar Cruises
