The Truth About Cruising
I am a self proclaimed travel addict. This also makes me a cruise addict. (not by default just my opinion). I have also created several cruise addicts. . i.e my mom, my fiance’ and my best friend. Yet, I find the most myths and lack of information about cruising than any other form of travel. There are many myths about all-inclusives as well but that is another post. Let’s get started!
By Kavonda L. Rogers
MYTH: There are only a handful of cruise lines.
I hear this statement quite often from people who have taken one or two cruises. Why does it seem believable because many people base their information on advertisements. If you only see advertisements for a small number of companies you may assume those are the only ones that exist. Most advertisements you see are from main line cruise companies such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival or Holland America. Yet, currently there are 25 major cruise lines. Virgin Cruise Lines (yep, just like the record company) will launch in 2020 making for 26 major cruise lines. They fall into the following categories:
Mass Market (or Main Line)- These are the cruise lines most associated with cruising and usually the most affordable cruising options. Also, they have the largest ships to accommodate a large numbers of passengers. Main line cruises start at $399+ per person. Examples are Carnival,Royal Caribbean, Holland America and Norwegian.
Premium– A step up from Mass Market and usually slightly smaller ships. If you can call 2-3,000 passengers smaller. Premium cruise lines focus on longer cruises (7+ days) and more exotic locations. Premium cruises are more of an investment and start around $799 per person. Examples are Princess, Disney, Celebrity, and MSC Cruises.
Luxury: Luxury cruise lines are just that. They usually do not have ships with more than 1000 passengers. They focus on exotic destinations and often have more overnight stays than the previous two categories. Often times shore excursions and activities are included in the price. Private butlers, free wifi are usually included. Also, balconies, suites and penthouses are the norm instead of the exception. Luxury cruises start at around $2400 per person. Examples are Crystal Cruises, Cunard,and Azamara.
Ultra Luxury: Ultra Luxury takes the Luxury catagory and puts it on steroids. The ships are smaller housing from 100-800 guests. The locations are off the beaten path with some occasional big ship stops. Everything is included from drinks to food to shore excursions. Butlers and personal concierge are the norm as well as spa packages. These cruises often have themes such as wine cruises, or culinary delights. This is the best cruising has to offer. Also, if you live far from the port no worries Ultra Luxury cruises include business class plane tickets in the price. Ultra Luxury cruises start at $8000 per person and can cost as much as $25,000 per person. Examples are Silverseas and Paul Gaugin cruises.
Now that you know the cruise levels let’s explore other myths.
Myth: Cruises just go to the Caribbean
Yes, the majority of cruises go to the Caribbean around 50%, but the ocean cruising world is much bigger. There are many cruises that go to other destinations. For example their are Hawaiian and Alaskan cruises. Not to mention all the European cruises (which also includes river cruises, but that’s another post). More recently cruise lines are entering Central and South America with cruises going through the Panama Canal and to Rio De Janerio. There is a cruise for everyone even veteran cruisers who want a bit more adventure with their cruise travel.
Myth: Been there done that!
Many people feel that once they go to a specific port then they should never go there again. Many times the ports where cruise ships dock are not close to the hub of the island. I have been to several locations where I really didn’t get a feel for the area until my 3rd or 4th visit. If you are doing a repeat visit to an area definitely contact me and I can give you some ideas to have a better island experience. There is always something else to see when you don’t live there.
Myth: All Inclusive Resorts are Better, Right?
I will admit that all inclusive resorts are amazing. Especially, when you want to have time to dig deep and really immerse yourself in a particular destination. Yet, as far as exploration of several locales in a short period of time cruising wins hands down. The value of a cruise especially for 5 day plus cruises is exceptionally high. My suggestion is to cruise to a destination to see if you like it. If you like it and want to see more then go back and stay at an all-inclusive.