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Choose to Cruise
The purpose of this article is to look at the difference between the two styles of cruising so you can pick the one that is right for you. The majority of ships sailing the globe today are ocean liners, but riverboat cruising is a fast growing alternative. According to T. Hagan, CEO of Viking Cruises, “Ocean cruising is a drinking man’s cruise, while River cruising is a thinking man’s cruise.” You might say that analogy is a stretch of the imagination, however, it can be a useful starting point if you are new to cruising. In contrast to the floating resorts of the ocean liners that sail to the major port cities of the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Baltic and Alaska river cruisers offer a quieter, more intimate experience while sailing along the rivers of Europe, Russia, China and the U.S. Ships The big advantage of ocean cruising is the unbelievable variety of onboard options for all types of travelers. In recent years modern cruise ships have turned into floating resorts with a wide selection of dining and entertainment venues, activities, bars, dance clubs, casinos and more. The majority of oceangoing cruise ships carry anywhere between 1,200 to 5,ooo passengers. Many of the smaller luxury vessels carry only 100 to 500 guests. Many of the ocean cruise ships have more than one pool (some even have miniature water parks with impressive water slides), a large spa and a fitness center. Ocean liners are ships geared toward active cruisers who will enjoy ice-skating rinks, bowling alleys, rock climbing walls, light simulators, basketball courts and more. Since river ships need to travel through locks on rivers, they are often less than 450 feet long and only 40 feet wide. |
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Fulfilling the Ultimate Cruise Dream
The Queen Mary 2 is far beyond the realm of any ordinary voyage. For over a century and a half, the distinctive black-and-red design of the Cunard Cruise Line vessels have defined sophisticated ocean travel. The moment I walked on the deck of the Queen Mary 2 I realized I was in for an extraordinary ocean voyage.
Sailing on the Queen Mary allows you to sail vast stretches of open waters on a sleek, modern ocean liner that captures all the excitement and elegance of the Golden Age of Travel. In the past and to this day, the most glamorous celebrities, notable scholars and authors and respected world leaders have made champagne toasts in the grand ballrooms and enjoyed stimulating conversations on the decks of Cunard's glorious Queens. As I walked the halls and decks of this magnificent ship and glanced at the pictures and autographs of movie stars, both stage and screen, I couldn't help but feel I had finally arrived at the ultimate cruise experience.
More than any other vessel on the seas, Cunard's ocean liners have earned the title of the
" Most Famous Ocean Liners in the World" A rich and lengthy history of setting a sophisticated style is deeply rooted in all of the marvelous customs I, as a guest, celebrated on board the gracious Queen Mary. Each day I was reminded of how special I was and what a privilege it was to be on board this oceangoing palace. My surroundings were unsurpassed in the comfort I felt. Even something as ordinary as visiting the buffet table turned into an extraordinary experience when suddenly a waiter appeared out of nowhere to carry my tray selection to my table. This attention one enjoys throughout the journey is known throughout the world as "White Star Service".
Imagine yourself entering into a special frame of mind during the daily ritual of afternoon tea--enjoyed with its scones, finger sandwiches and white-gloved service. In the evening find yourself adopting a regal attitude as you put on your finest evening attire to dance to a live orchestra in a glorious ballroom on one of the many Royal Nights themed balls or meet and mingle with a stimulating mixture of international guests. Share a game of darts in the Golden Lion Pub; discuss fascinating topics with those you met by the pool or in one of the beautiful lounges. Engage in witty dialogue over breakfast each morning with people who are among the most discerning travelers in the world and savor divine feasts in the finest dining rooms on the ocean.
Once you experience a Cunard cruise, you'll understand why this is more than just an ocean voyage--it is an experience you will cherish for a lifetime.
When you are ready to take a cruise, post a reply to this Blog.
Hyman Travel Network
"Turning Travel Dreams Into Reality"
The Queen Mary 2 is far beyond the realm of any ordinary voyage. For over a century and a half, the distinctive black-and-red design of the Cunard Cruise Line vessels have defined sophisticated ocean travel. The moment I walked on the deck of the Queen Mary 2 I realized I was in for an extraordinary ocean voyage.
Sailing on the Queen Mary allows you to sail vast stretches of open waters on a sleek, modern ocean liner that captures all the excitement and elegance of the Golden Age of Travel. In the past and to this day, the most glamorous celebrities, notable scholars and authors and respected world leaders have made champagne toasts in the grand ballrooms and enjoyed stimulating conversations on the decks of Cunard's glorious Queens. As I walked the halls and decks of this magnificent ship and glanced at the pictures and autographs of movie stars, both stage and screen, I couldn't help but feel I had finally arrived at the ultimate cruise experience.
More than any other vessel on the seas, Cunard's ocean liners have earned the title of the
" Most Famous Ocean Liners in the World" A rich and lengthy history of setting a sophisticated style is deeply rooted in all of the marvelous customs I, as a guest, celebrated on board the gracious Queen Mary. Each day I was reminded of how special I was and what a privilege it was to be on board this oceangoing palace. My surroundings were unsurpassed in the comfort I felt. Even something as ordinary as visiting the buffet table turned into an extraordinary experience when suddenly a waiter appeared out of nowhere to carry my tray selection to my table. This attention one enjoys throughout the journey is known throughout the world as "White Star Service".
Imagine yourself entering into a special frame of mind during the daily ritual of afternoon tea--enjoyed with its scones, finger sandwiches and white-gloved service. In the evening find yourself adopting a regal attitude as you put on your finest evening attire to dance to a live orchestra in a glorious ballroom on one of the many Royal Nights themed balls or meet and mingle with a stimulating mixture of international guests. Share a game of darts in the Golden Lion Pub; discuss fascinating topics with those you met by the pool or in one of the beautiful lounges. Engage in witty dialogue over breakfast each morning with people who are among the most discerning travelers in the world and savor divine feasts in the finest dining rooms on the ocean.
Once you experience a Cunard cruise, you'll understand why this is more than just an ocean voyage--it is an experience you will cherish for a lifetime.
When you are ready to take a cruise, post a reply to this Blog.
Hyman Travel Network
"Turning Travel Dreams Into Reality"
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A Celebration In Time on Princess Cruise Lines
The year was 1979, I had just recently moved to Maryland to begin my teaching career. One of the memories of that time was my obsession with a TV program that came on each Saturday night. This program was set on a cruise ship and was called “The Love Boat”. The program was a romantic comedy and revolved around the ship’s captain played by Gavin MacLeod and a handful of crew members and passengers.
I can’t remember most of the story lines concerning this program but what I do remember is setting in front of the TV and longing to be a passenger on the Pacific Princess. At that time I had no idea I would eventually become a travel agent, but I will say, somewhere in the back of my mind, this Saturday night ritual was an important factor in my decision.
Fast forward, in 2009 I sailed on Princess Cruise lines to Alaska up the inside passage which offered an amazing look at the Alaska coastlne and now I have the opportunity to sail on Princess again. This year Princess is celebrating its’ 50th year reunion of the “Love Boat”. On December 5-12 I will experience “A Celebration In Time” as I board the Crown Princess in Los Angeles, California to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas Mexico.
The theme of Princess Cruises this year is “Come Back New”, new ways to explore the world, new authentic regional foods to taste, and spectacular new stories to share. Princess believes there is another world to discover when you swap the everyday world for one full of discovery and wonder. So, I am ready to go and hopefully I too, will come back new.
Allure of the Seas
Line: Royal Caribbean
Built: November 2010
Passengers: 6,360 passengers
Class: Oasis class (along with Oasis of the Seas)
Routes: Out of Fort Lauderdale year-round on seven-day cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.
Best for
Allure of the Seas is for easily bored families and anyone else who needs something to do at all times.
Not for
People who fear crowds or want a vessel that’s intimate, low-key, or adult-oriented.
Highlights
AquaTheater
Photo by Royal Caribbean International
- Themed neighborhoods that include the mall-like Royal Promenade, the Boardwalk, and Central Park, a tree-shaded oasis
- A can’t-miss diving show in the outdoor AquaTheater
- A Broadway-caliber performance of “Chicago”
- The ship-wide DreamWorks® Experience
- An exhausting array of outdoor activities, including a zip line, two surf simulators, and two rock climbing walls
Allure of the Seas shares the title of world’s biggest cruise ship with its sister, Oasis of the Seas, which pioneered themed neighborhoods and inward-facing balcony cabins. Some revel in Allure’s massive size; others are overwhelmed by it, but no one walks away less than awestruck.
It remains one of the most expensive mass-market ships afloat, and the budget-minded should be aware that there are abundant ways to run up your bill: While complimentary grub is everywhere, many (better) options are available for a fee, ranging from $40 for the tasting menu at a celeb chef restaurant (helmed by Michael Schwartz of the acclaimed Michael’s Genuine in Miami) to $5 lattes at the first Starbucks store at sea.
Tip: If you want to shake the kids and the crowds at the oppressively crowded top-deck pools, head to the Solarium, an adults-only pool with hot tubs. Hint: Covet one of the awning-covered chairs for two on a sea day? Snag it when you first get up.
Cabins
Allure of the Seas has 2,700-plus comfortable cabins — including family units and opulent loft suites with more space — in a dizzying variety of locations, so it’s vital to know where you’ll be situated.
For instance, because the ship offers balcony cabins that face inward, you may find yourself sitting outside and looking down onto the merry-go-round full of screaming kids, or discover someone zip lining mere feet above you. Likewise, you can expect foot traffic below (and to hear music from the pool bars above) if you opt for lodging that overlooks Central Park.
Tip: If you can spare the money, consider one of the sprawling AquaTheater suites, which offer stunning sea views from massive balconies and the best seats in the house during diving shows.
Allure of the Seas cruise deals from $849
Disney Cruise Line is for families
Single Parents choose Disney Cruises
For single parents, cruising might be the best vacation option around, offering just enough freedom for kids and enough R&R for mom or dad, without the awkward feeling that often comes with traveling alone. And Disney stands out with its strong, structured program for single parents: The goal is to make single-parent families feel included, taking into consideration the fact that parents traveling solo want some “me” time — but not too much time, since it can be lonely to travel without another adult.
Many single parents are also interested in teaming up with other single-parent families. To that end, Disney has set up programs aimed at making singles as comfortable as possible. For example, single parents are invited to special lunches (available on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy), at which they’re paired up. The result: Parents are more relaxed and happy to avoid the self-consciousness associated with sitting alone while other families gather for meals.
Through Singles Mingle, single parents meet casually at Diversions, a 120-seat pub lounge on Disney Wonder, while their kids take in a movie or hang out at the kids club. Other ongoing programs include Ice Breakers (always held on the first night of a cruise), mixers, arcade meet ups, basketball games, and farewell events held the last night of every cruise. Another choice: Meals with the cruise staff, ensuring single parents have adults to dine with while at sea.
Royal Caribbean's Accessible Seas
If you are a traveler with access needs, there is a wonderful world of adventure waiting for you, and no one can bring it to life like Royal Caribbean International. I believe that discovering and exploring the world around us are things that everyone should be able to enjoy. Royal Caribbean strives to be sure that every aspect of the cruising experience, from relaxing or exercising on deck, to dining and enjoying the spectacular shows, to enjoying fascinating and exciting shore excursions, can be enjoyed by one and all. Royal Caribbean realizes that every guest's need are different and they work hard to assure all guests' needs are met.
Mobility Impairments:
Royal Caribbean's goal is to make all guests as comfortable as possible, both on and off the ship. The spacious corridors accommodate 180 degree turns for wheelchairs. Most decks are accessible through automatic doors, and all public rooms feature entrances with gradual inclines. All ships provide accessible staterooms ranging from 159 square feet to 298 square feet, offering a five foot turning radius in sleeping areas, bathrooms and sitting areas for easy maneuverability.
Visual Impairments
Royal Caribbean is determined to make the cruising experience as convenient and enjoyment as possible for guests with visual impairments. Staterooms, dining and public areas are designed to incorporate Braille whenever possible. Service animals are allowed on board and early boarding is available for orientation tours.
Hearing Impairments
Sign Language Interpreters are available upon request as well as closed-captioned television sets. There is also an Alertmaster and a strobe alarm in staterooms which monitors doorbells, and closed captioned telephones.
Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas
For cruise enthusiasts who enjoy playing sports during an open sea vacation, the soon-to-be-completed Harmony of the Seas cruise ship from Royal Caribbean will be a dream come true.
When completed, Harmony of the Seas will be the world’s largest cruise ship, and it is scheduled to arrive in the United Kingdom in May 2016. To celebrate the huge emphasis on sports to be found on the new ship, a team of 20 Royal Caribbean employees laid out over 1,700 items across Boscombe Beach in England, just under half the 3,415 pieces of sports equipment found on the new ship.
Among the games and activities found on the Harmony of the Seas, guests will be able to enjoy over 30 different options, including golf, badminton, ping pong, surfing, basketball, ice hockey, billiards and much more.
Royal Caribbean Managing Director Stuart Leven released a statement, saying, “There aren’t many holidays where families can visit multiple destinations, try their hand at ice skating, body boarding, a zip wire and learn how to Blongoball all in one trip! Harmony of the Seas offers holiday makers the opportunity to explore amazing destinations and enjoy a world of new experiences, with an activity to cater for every age and every taste.”
The ship will also feature the first-ever 10-story slide dubbed Ultimate Abyss and the multi-level Perfect Storm water slides that will be open to guests on the Harmony of the Seas during its three- and four-day cruises.
When Harmony of the Seas launches next year, it will host two short getaway sailings. The two cruises will be exclusive for passengers in the United Kingdom, offering them a chance to experience the ship ahead of her inaugural sailing to Barcelona.
The ship will then sail the Mediterranean throughout summer 2016 before moving to the Caribbean.
When completed, Harmony of the Seas will be the world’s largest cruise ship, and it is scheduled to arrive in the United Kingdom in May 2016. To celebrate the huge emphasis on sports to be found on the new ship, a team of 20 Royal Caribbean employees laid out over 1,700 items across Boscombe Beach in England, just under half the 3,415 pieces of sports equipment found on the new ship.
Among the games and activities found on the Harmony of the Seas, guests will be able to enjoy over 30 different options, including golf, badminton, ping pong, surfing, basketball, ice hockey, billiards and much more.
Royal Caribbean Managing Director Stuart Leven released a statement, saying, “There aren’t many holidays where families can visit multiple destinations, try their hand at ice skating, body boarding, a zip wire and learn how to Blongoball all in one trip! Harmony of the Seas offers holiday makers the opportunity to explore amazing destinations and enjoy a world of new experiences, with an activity to cater for every age and every taste.”
The ship will also feature the first-ever 10-story slide dubbed Ultimate Abyss and the multi-level Perfect Storm water slides that will be open to guests on the Harmony of the Seas during its three- and four-day cruises.
When Harmony of the Seas launches next year, it will host two short getaway sailings. The two cruises will be exclusive for passengers in the United Kingdom, offering them a chance to experience the ship ahead of her inaugural sailing to Barcelona.
The ship will then sail the Mediterranean throughout summer 2016 before moving to the Caribbean.