Posts Tagged ‘Cruise Lines’

Taking a cruise can be an amazing adventure, but if you have never been on a cruise before then you may not know what to expect. As the date for your cruise draws closer, you might even begin to feel a little bit of anxiety as you start to wonder exactly what it is going to be like. If you are worried too much about what can happen on your cruise then you are not going to enjoy it nearly as much, so it is a good idea to spend some time beforehand to get a better idea of exactly what you should expect for your first cruise. Here is some basic information about what can be expected on your cruise.

When first checking in for your cruise you will have to go through a basic security checkpoint. Your bags are taken by a porter at the cruise terminal, and next they are loaded into bins so that they can be placed on the ship and in your cabin. While your bags are, being loaded you can continue checking in at the terminal, which typically involve your carry-on luggage being x-rayed, and you stepping through a metal detector. The process is much the same as what you would go through at an airport, and is merely a precaution to protect you and everyone else once you are all aboard the ship.

After passing through the security checkpoint, you can finish the checking in process. You need to present your photo ID, credit card, and cruise reservation information at the check-in desk, at which point you are given your cabin key card and an on-ship charge card that can be used for shipboard purchases.

Once you have checked in, all that is left for you to do is to make your way to the pier and wait to board the ship. If you have arrived prior to boarding, you should be assigned a number or letter, which lets you know when it is time to board. When your number or letter is called, you may then board the ship, much as you would when your boarding section is called if you were waiting for a plane. Many cruise lines have photographers working at the docks, waiting to capture a shot of people boarding for a cruise vacation that they will always remember.

When you board the ship, your bags should already be in the cabin. The ship staff greets you and presents you with a map to help you find your way to your cabin and other ship locations, and in some cases, you may actually be guided to your cabin by an attendant who assists you with your carry-on luggage. The type of service that you receive when you first board the ship depends on the cruise line with which your cruise has been booked, though more cruise lines are moving to a full-service model in hopes of drawing in additional bookings.

After you have checked out your room, you should take the time to locate your assigned dining room so that you know where to go when it is time for a meal. Many cruise ships have several different dining rooms, and the one that you are assigned to should be marked on your shipboard charge card. There is a good chance that there will be alternate dining options available to you as well, though these are generally featured at an additional cost.

You should take the time to read the ship’s newsletter as well as the listing of ship excursions that are waiting for you in your cabin. This provides useful information about both on-ship activities and the various ports of call that you will visit. Some planned excursions may likely require registration, and it is important that you do so as early as possible since at least some of the more popular ones may be in danger of selling out. Read the excursion list on your first day in order to get a better idea of what you would like to do during the rest of your cruise.

Before the cruise gets underway with the majority of the planned activities, there should be a lifeboat drill to show you what to do in case of an emergency. This drill is mandatory and it does not take long. It should only occur one time during your cruise. Once it is out of the way, you can enjoy the rest of your cruise, making sure to experience some of the planned activities and on-board amenities. This can also help you to avoid missing any activities that you want to take part in during the cruise. If you are about to embark on your first cruise, you should consider these tips and you should be ready for your vacation.

Stephanie Larkin
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/what-to-expect-on-your-first-cruise-731145.html

Technorati Tags: Anxiety, Basic Security, Carry On Luggage, Charge Card, Credit Card, Credit Information, Cruise Information, Cruise Lines, Cruise Reservation, Cruise Terminal, Desk, Docks, Key Card, Little Bit, Metal Detector, Photo Id, Photographers, Precaution, Security Bags, Security Checkpoint

So you’ve heard how great cruise vacations are, and now you’ve decided to take to the high seas for a fortnight of luxury and pampering. But there’s a lot to think about. So before you select a cruise line, a cruise ship or even get in touch with a travel agent, there are certain issues that are vital to consider.

1) Who is going on the cruise?

Although this question should be easy to answer, it can have a bearing on the type of cruise line and ship that you ultimately choose.

If you and your partner want to take a relaxing cruise, there are many ships that are aimed at couples. In fact some cruise ships actively discourage or even ban people from taking children onboard.

If you will be cruising as a couple, it’s also important to consider the dining situation. On ships with assigned seating, you will have to specify the size of table that you want. However, on many ships, tables for two are in short supply, so if this is an important issue, this may influence your choice of cruise line and ship. Just make sure that you make this clear to your travel agent or the cruise line when booking.

On the other hand, if you want to take your children or travel with the rest of your extended family, there are certain cruise lines and ships within cruise lines that are specifically tailored with family vacations in mind.

2) How much have you got to spend?

It’s possible to find a cruise vacation to suit almost any budget. So before you go any further it’s important to work out how much you’re willing to spend on your holiday.

But as a general rule, you’ll need to set aside at least $150 per person per day to cover the cost of your cruise. However, bigger cabins in more luxurious ships can cost many times this figure.

However, it is possible to get more for your money if you;

a) Book early: Most cruise lines are willing to give generous discounts if you book your cruise 6-12 months in advance.

b) Book late: Likewise, if you book within 2 months of setting sail, most cruise lines will give you hefty discounts to fill the remaining cabins.

3) How long have you got?

The number of days that you want your vacation to last will determine the type and location of cruises that are available to you.

If you only have a few days, the main option is a one port cruise. This means that the ship leaves port sails around the sea/ocean for two or three days and then returns to the same port. The ship doesn’t call at any other ports, but it does give you a few days at sea. This is a good way to get the feel for a certain cruise ship, or even cruising in general.

If you have a week to spare, this gives you more choices. If you live in the US, this gives you the choice of Hawaii, Alaska, Florida, Mexico or even a Caribbean cruise. If you live in Europe this will give you access to the mediterranean, north africa, or even a nordic cruise.

Alternatively, if you want to increase the number of locations available, you could fly to and from the start/finish location of your cruise or take a one way cruise either flying to the start location or flying home after disembarkation.

If you have two weeks or longer, you can cruise almost any part of the world.

4) What time of the year?

The time of year that you take your cruise will have a major affect on two issues;

a) The Price: As with all forms of travel, your holiday will cost more during the peak season. In contrast, most cruises are cheaper in the spring or fall.

Traditionally, the winter was considered the high season for Caribbean destinations, but due to the weight of supply and demand (people who have to take their vacation during the summer) the summertime costs are almost on a par with the cost of a winter Caribbean cruise.

b) The Locations Available: The time of year that you take your cruise will also determine the locations that are available. Although this won’t make much difference to the more mainstream locations such as the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, certain places have a distinct cruise season.

If you want to go to Alaska or northern Europe, the main cruise season lasts from May till September.

For Antartica, the season is even shorter, running from November to February.

Although the tropical regions are in season all year, there is a great variation in the amount of rainfall throughout the year. Locations such as the Caribbean will have less rain during the summer months and more rain during the winter months.

And finally, although not a restriction as such, some people prefer to avoid places that may be affected by the hurricane season. If a cruise ship encounters a storm it will alter its route to avoid it, which means you may miss certain places that you wanted to visit.

5) What part of the world do you want to visit?

You can cruise almost anywhere in the world, even landlocked countries are often available to explore through river cruises. So it’s no surprise that this is one of the hardest decisions for cruise newcomers to make.

The amount of days that you have for your vacation will narrow your options, but beyond that, consider other issues, such as;

If you want to or have to take your vacation at a certain time of the year, which locations are available?

If you particularly want to use a certain cruise line, which locations do their ships visit?

What type of weather and climate do you prefer?

Are there any particular landmarks that you want to visit?

Are there any activities or adventures that you want to experience?

Now all you have to do it to get in touch with your travel agent.

Kristen Olsen
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/planning-your-first-cruise-things-to-consider-part-1-129768.html

Technorati Tags: 12 Months, Bearing, Budget, couples, Cruise Line, Cruise Lines, Cruise Ship, Cruise Ships, cruise vacation, Cruise Vacations, Extended Family, Family Vacations, Fortnight, Generous Discounts, High Seas, Lot, Luxurious Ships, Money, Partner, Travel Agent

Vacations can spell enjoyment and stress at the same time. The time of planning, booking and hazards of trips are just few troubles one may encounter along the way. Nevertheless, one should consider enjoying and the fun side of it rather than divulge on the pressure that can ruin all the plans and preparation.

Family vacation requires a lot of preparation considering that you should satisfy your own desires and likes alongside the wants of your toddlers, teens and spouse. Consolidating the ideas they have and the thrills they want to gain are various points that should be dealt upon for a vacation to be fruitful.

Here are some ideas you can consider when planning to go on a family vacation:

1.Why not go on a beach vacation? It is not easy to please all members of the family and resorts can be a good option. There are beaches where multitude of activities can be done like jet skiing, surfing, and cruising which you and your teens can enjoy. There are also resorts with kids’ pools and slides for your toddlers. Prioritize the enjoyment of the family but check on the safety of the place and the water specifically.

2.The family can also go on a cruise vacation. You can free yourself from planning and other activities because there are packages provided by ships and other cruise lines. All you have to do is choose among the packages and be present on the set date of your floating vacation. Cruise activities include spas, casinos and live entertainment for teens and adults. Youngsters are offered with kids’ activities so nobody is left bored and idle. Check on the medical facilities of the cruise lines to ensure your health while on the cruise.

3.If your family enjoys a country lifestyle, you can have a family ranch vacation. There are ranches which welcome people and offer vacation packages. There are those which are near rivers where you can do rafting and engage in a river trip. The family can also involve in ranch tour, join lessons about horseback riding and take care of horses and other animals such as cattle. A special set of activities for children are designed to get them busy while on the ranch.

4.Adventure vacation is not a bad idea either. Adventures suck as kayaking, sailing, hiking, canoeing, camping, hunting and a whole lot more can excite all the members of the family. Nature tripping is a good adventure to give you and your family fun and learning at the same time.

5.Theme parks can also be a good choice. You can choose Universal Studios which offer an array of incredible rides and attractions. Universal Studios is a theme park and movie studio in one. You can also tour and watch real working films and scenes from your much loved movies. Walt Disney also offers an Animal Kingdom Theme Park and a lot more. Children and adults alike can also enjoy the Disney resorts and other wonderful areas in the Walt Disney.

6.For holiday season, the family can try a snow vacation. Snow can make your vacation a lot different! There are numerous resorts in California, New Hampshire or Vermont which offers country skiing, dog sledding, ice fishing, ice skating, sliding, ice climbing and other exciting activities. There are also schools accepting enrollees for ski lessons; or you can simply enjoy the snow by making snow man, angels, etc.

7.Volunteer vacations. Your family can try the unique but worthwhile volunteer work with helpful humanitarian and nature causes. There are global volunteer works which cater to those groups who wanted to engage in charitable projects. There are those located in Puerto Rico, Mexico, Costa Rica, Africa, and much much more. Projects vary from animal welfare, health and safety, education, community development, children’s issue, environment and nature or poverty. Be sure that family members all compromised with this kind of vacation because laborious work and sacrifice are involved here rather than relaxation.

There are several more ideas one family can think of while planning for their much awaited vacation. One family member differs with another so careful compromises and decision must be made to make sure that all will be satisfied and happy. A good vacation does not depend on its longevity; rather the measure is the quality of time spent with the family.

Nathalie Fiset
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/helpful-ideas-to-have-an-enjoyable-family-vacation-74831.html

Technorati Tags: Beach Vacation, Country Lifestyle, Cruise Activities, Cruise Lines, cruise vacation, Desires, Family Ranch Vacation, Family Vacation, Jet Skiing, Kids Activities, Live Entertainment, Medical Facilities, Members Of The Family, Multitude, River Trip, Spas, Toddlers, Vacation Cruise, Vacation Vacations, Youngsters

So we’re still on a cruise, on our way to some enchanted land. It’s a great weather today, and the air is warm, and so are everyone’s smiles. Here’s more of what you can expect in a ship cruise.

Onboard Activities

All in all, it’s virtually impossible to be bored on a cruise ship. There are ongoing activities throughout the day, which are usually free of charge. Contests, games, bingo, clay shooting, dance, Tai Chi and golf lessons, karaoke and sing-a-longs, etc. Swimming or relaxing in a spa or hot tub.

Children and Young Teenagers on Board

All mainstream cruise ships offer organized programmes that cater to the entire family. These programmes are usually categorized by age, which include age-appropriate activities.

Not Inclue in Cruise’s Fees

Tips

Beverages

Spa Treatments

Hairdressers

Dry cleaning

Laundry services

Shore Excursions

Guidelines to Extra Expenses

When paying for your cruise the tips will NOT be included, although you can pre-pay your tips if the cruise liner will agree to it. Some cruise lines automatically add the recommended tip amount to your account at the time of sailing. You can decide to adjust this amount based on the service received.

The onboard hospitality crew and general staffing crew earn much of their money in tips. Make no mistake, they do EARN IT – their shifts are long and they will go out of their way to make you feel welcome and well-looked after on your holiday. You won’t find better waiters, stewards, bartenders, and cabin staff anywhere.

Most cruise lines have ‘recommended tipping rates’ that can start at $10.00 per day per guest. These tips are then distributed among the personnel that service your every need for the included cruise items such as stateroom stewards, waiters, bartenders, and general cabin staff.

Spa Treatments

All cruise ships offer excellent technicians for spa treatments such as massage, facials, waxing, manicure, and pedicures. Hairdressers are available as well. Of course, all of these are extra, but are they worth it, and you’ll always look your best without much effort. Another tip, book in as soon as you get on board for your first service and you can book ongoing services easily or you’ll miss out. These services fill up very quickly.

Shore Excursions

Unfortunately, shore excursions are not included. There are dozens of things to do when your ship docks at the beautiful exotic destinations. Don’t let your next holiday turn into a fiasco. Cruise lines make it extremely easy for you to book excursions on-line even before you board the ship. If you prefer you can book shore excursions once you board.

The Best Hints to Remember

Budget for your on board expenses and include the spending money for any on shore shopping excursions.

Keep track of your spending by retaining all receipts

Check your account balance each day.

Book your shore excursions ahead of time so you won’t be disappointed.

Take care when going on tour alone. Even though most people on shore rely on tourists for their income, it’s easy to become prey to misadventure.

Don’t purchase any foodstuffs that are suspicious. Rather be safe than sorry.

Don’t buy any food that cannot be consumed before you reach your departure port.

Don’t buy anything on shore if you believe it may be confiscated by customs once you are home.

The best tip to remember is to check everything with your travel agent before paying for your cruise. If you need to find a travel agent in a hurry just browse free online classifieds, and do some shopping around for the best prices. Ask questions and then ask some more. They are there to assist you to have a really good holiday. If your travel agent doesn’t know much about the cruise line then it may be better to find another agent, otherwise you can get in touch directly with the cruise line. Bon voyage!

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Jhona
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-definitive-guide-to-going-on-the-perfect-cruise-part-three-86597.html

Technorati Tags: Bartenders, Cabin Staff, Clay Shooting, Cruise Liner, Cruise Lines, Cruise Ship, Cruise Ships, Definitive Guide, Dry Cleaning Laundry, Enchanted Land, Golf Lessons, Laundry Services, Pedicures, Ship Cruise, Shore Excursions, Spa Treatments, Stateroom, Stewards, Waiters, Weather Today

Been to Europe and the Caribbean, took Norwegian Gem and Carnival. Carnival had TOO many kids! Looking for great cruise lines for couples, that leave out of Florida. Anyone had any really great experiences with a cruise line?

For cruise vacation line deals you need to go to www.HanksDeals.Com He will find it for you guaranteed!

Technorati Tags: advice, caribbean, Carnival, couples, Cruise Deals, Cruise Line, Cruise Lines, cruise vacation, Europe, Experiences, Line Deals, Vacation Deals