Short Cruises for Newbies

Those of us who have been bitten by the cruise bug can’t say enough about how cruising is the most economical vacation you can take.  There are cruises available on every cruise line that will fall within anyone’s budget. 

That being said, there are still many more Americans who have not experienced the fun and excitement for one reason or another, for what they believe are justifiable reasons.  I’ve heard a few of those reasons …

• It’s too expensive to take a cruise. 
• I watched Titanic and am too afraid.
• I get seasick when I don’t see land.
• I can’t take that much time off from work.
• I would rather go to an all-inclusive resort.

It’s Too Expensive to Take a Cruise

There are cruise lines that cater to the more affluent, and their fares are priced accordingly.  However, the more affordable cruise lines have affordable rates and occasionally lower their prices in order to get their itineraries fully booked, but these rates change frequently.  You may see an itinerary you like one day and the price is right, but by the time you decide you want to book, the price may be higher, even if it is the next day.  That is the advantage of having a travel specialist research the best rates for you.

I Watched Titanic and am Too Afraid

I can understand that – I practically know the dialogue myself!  But, cruise lines are required to follow the Safety of Life at Sea Treaty, which was first adopted by the International Maritime Organization following the Titanic disaster in 1914.  They hold mandatory muster, or safety drills prior to the departure of every ship.  The timing of these drills changed since the 2012 Costa Concordia disaster.  Prior to that time, some cruise ships held their muster drills within 24 hours of departure.  It is mandatory for every passenger to attend these drills, as they are educated on the use of life vests and the escape routes from the ship.  Every passenger is assigned to a particular life boat.  These boats are fully enclosed and unsinkable.  Every cruise ship is equipped with enough of these lifeboats to hold every passenger and crew member.

I Get Seasick when I don’t See Land

I also have problems with motion sickness.  There are remedies available both on and off the ship.  You can get prepared for the journey by purchasing acupressure bands, like SeaBands, that are very effective.  I’ve seen other bands that are more decorative, like a bracelet, but are also more expensive.  I wear my wristbands 24/7, even on formal nights.  I’d rather be in trouble with the fashion police than be unbecomingly green.  The ship’s medical facility also has patches available for passengers.  These usually are worn behind the ear for the duration of the cruise.

I can’t take that much time off from work

Here’s where the subject of this Blog comes in.  There are cruises that won’t cramp your style.  Cruise Lines offer quick getaways where you can slip away a night or two on a weekend cruise.  We recommend this type of cruise to clients who have never cruised before and want to see what it is like without too much commitment.  These cruises are generally known as cruises to nowhere, since the ship does not sail to any port of call, especially if your departure port is further north.  If you depart from a more southern port such as Miami, you can book a three-day trip to the Bahamas and back.

I would rather go to an all-inclusive resort

An all-inclusive resort is a great place to vacation at, and we have many fantastic all-inclusive packages.  However, a cruise is also all-inclusive.  Everything is included in the price including Broadway-style entertainment, gourmet food (all you can eat) and room and board.  But there is something else that all-inclusive resorts can’t provide – exotic places to visit at every port.  At these places, especially in the Caribbean, you have the opportunity to shop at duty-free stores, where jewelry, watches, liquor, clothing and cigarettes are abundant.  You can sample the local cuisine, and it is authentic, not Americanized.  Tip:  Ask some of the crew members before you get off the ship where the best restaurants are.  They would know better than anyone.

I hope these explanations have settled your reasons for not wanting to cruise.  We can eliminate any further misgivings – just contact us at Travel, Tours & Cruises, and we will do the rest.