The 10 Myths Of Cruising

MYTH #1: “I’ll be bored after a week on board” Very unlikely today.

You will call at several ports where you can disembark and can go sightseeing or shopping. When at sea the ship will have a full range of activities to participate in such as keep-fit classes, card lessons, dance lessons, wine-tasting, bingo, educational lectures plus professional entertainment.

MYTH # 2: “If I cruise I will get seasick”

Select an itinerary that sails in calm waters. Ships are now being built that are over 100,000 tons and are very stable in normal weather. Cruise ships also have the option of extending their stabilizers to reduce rolling. If Captains see bad weather ahead they can alter their course to avoid its worst effect. Remember, there are very effective travel-sickness remedies available. On board medical staff can also provide very effective injections to minimum any sickness.

MYTH #3: “ I can’t afford to take a cruise”

Today there is a cruise for almost any budget including some one night sample cruises. Booking early can provide great savings or plan to cruise in the low-season. There is a whole range of price ranges for cabins. Lower decks and inside cabins are always less. Remember, your cruise includes your stateroom accommodation, all your meals and ship board entertainment. But no matter what type of cabin you stay in you are treated equally to all the ship’s amenities. Rates also change on a regular basis so deal with an experienced travel agent who can provide current pricing. When you compare a 7 night cruise to a 7 night all-inclusive resort you will find considerable savings.

MYTH #4: “Only old people cruise”

Absolutely not. The average age continues to drop. You will always find people of your age group, in fact cruise lines, match passengers at dining with people their own age. Cruise ships now cater to families and you will find fabulous facilities designed for children and teenagers. Cruise lines even have programs to match single passengers with a partner of the same sex. Yes, you will find older passengers, but you will generally find them to be a fun, active, lively bunch. Certain cruise lines are known to appeal to certain age groups so consult with a travel agent that specializes in cruises.

MYTH #5: “I’ll have be rent a tuxedo for the cruise”

It’s true, some people love to dress up when on a cruise. However, most cruise lines will have one formal night and men are expected to wear a suit or tux, however, if all you have is a dress shirt and tie, you will probably be acceptable. Other nights, smart casual is the rule….but no t-shirts or shorts as you are dining in elegant dining rooms in the evening. During breakfast and lunch you are casual. Some cruise lines are alittle more formal than others so check with a travel agent what the expectations are for that particular cruise line. Remember that alternative dining is always available other than the main dining room.

MYTH #6: “I have children and they won’t like being cooped up on a ship”

Some cruise lines are especially designed for families and children. Programs designed for all age groups are organized and run by trained counselors. They will participate in supervised games, treasure hunts, computer games, talent shows, sport competitions and board games. You can leave your children, enjoy yourself, knowing that your children are in good hands. Many make life time friends with other kids from around the world.

MYTH #7: “I’ll have to eat in the same restaurant each day and I will get tired of it”

Cruise ships now have multiple dining options. The main dining room is usually the most popular but ships will also have at least one specialty restaurant, a 24 hour cafeteria, pizza parlor, and a hot-dog and burger stand. In the dinning room each evening you will be offered a choice of several main courses. You can also have room service and enjoy having breakfast on your balcony.

MYTH #8: “I know you can eat 24hours, but I’ll gain too much weight”

You will only gain weight if you choose to. Your menus will include selections that are low in calories and cholesterol. You’ll find heart-conscious and vegetarian dishes also. Cruise ship chefs are world renowned but if you find yourself gaining a pound or two remember that ship will have a fully staffed and equipped gym where you can work those pounds off.

MYTH #9: “I’ll have to be tipping the waiters all the time”

Cruise ships pride themselves on offering first-class service and it is anticipated that passengers will want to offer a tip to the cruise staff serving them. In most cases a $9-$10 passenger per day will cover all your dining and cabin service. Most bars on board will add a 15 percent service charge. Cash tip envelopes are handled out on the last day but many cruise lines will now add a suggested tip allowance to your final bill. Tipping, however, is a matter of individual preference and the daily amount is only a guideline.

MYTH #10: “Take one cruise and the rest are all the same”

Absolutely not! Cruise ships come in all sizes and styles and carry from a few passengers to over 3,000. Some cruises are one to three days and others for one to two weeks or last for up to three months. They will cover all the oceans of the world visiting all the major port and offer with many different themes. A visit to a travel agent specializing in cruises and you will find that you an amazing range of options. You just might decide that a cruise is the right ticket for you next holiday.