Is 2016 The Year?

Will 2016 be the first time you take a cruise?

Have you thought about a cruising holiday in the past but have been put off booking because of the jargon? The number of ships and itineraries available? Worried about sea sickness?

Well don’t worry. Let me take you by the hand and lead you up the gank plank!

When I first started in travel, cruising was one of the enquiries I always tried to avoid. It seemed so complicated – I did not know my forward from my aft, my port from starboard, so if that’s how you feel – don’t worry, we have all been in the same boat. Over the next few weeks I will try and clear up some of the mystery.

Let’s start with your cabin.

An inside cabin is in the interior of the ship and has no natural light, you will have your own private bathroom though. Some of the newer ships have virtual balcony’s – this is a virtual screen that projects an outside view! Very clever,  but many people I have spoken to say the extra cost is just not worth it. Here is a typical inside cabin.

On certain ships you will find that there are inside cabins with a window (Promenade cabins) but these windows will look onto the inside promenade of the ship. These give you a bit more light in the room but will be more expensive.

Outside cabins – it is what is says – basically, these are the same as insides but have either a port hole ( small window ) or a picture window – larger with more daylight coming through. Some may have an obstructed view – these can be either part of the ships structure or a lifeboat, these are usually cheaper than the clear views and are a good way of letting some daylight into the cabin at an economical cost. This picture window lets in lots of daylight.

Balcony cabins – again – does what it says on the tin! Different balcony grades have different sized balconys – some of chairs others have loungers. Balcony cabins are great, but you have to question if it is worth it to you – for example, on a Transatlantic from New York to Southampton, spending 5 days at sea – what view will you have ? The Atlantic! But, if you are in the Caribbean, what better way to start your morning than having breakfast on your balcony overlooking palm trees and pretty hillside houses.

Suites – Now we are really pushing the boat out ( sorry for the pun! ). These are the creme de la creme of the ships cabins – some are more affordable than others – take junior suites – these are usually larger than your average balcony cabin and have improved amenities for just slightly more. However, when you get to full suites, loft suites, haven suites – you are talking luxury on a grand scale and that comes at a price. Imagine getting up to this view from your bathroom.

You get what you pay for at the end of the day. However, your cabin is a means to an end. Realistically, how much time do you spend in your cabin? You sleep, shower and change in it. Try and get the best you can afford though –  if your budget is for inside then book a higher standard of inside cabin – something midships, so sea sickness may be less of an issue.

Some of the cruise lines offer good deals if you book a type of cabin and let them choose the cabin number, sometimes on these deals you can book an obstructed view outside for the same price as an inside.

Let me have a look for you and see what offers there are. Ask as many questions as you want – I am here to make sure that you get the best service possible to ensure that you have a wonderful time and cruising becomes your number 1 holiday choice.