posted by admin on Jun 8
You re Guide to Houseboat Sales
Have you thought about the idea of buying your own houseboat to either escape to on the weekends and holidays? or maybe you want to sell the house and live in your houseboat full time. If so a houseboat sale is the best option for you if you are considering this type of investment in such a prestigious and ever growing boating market.
Without a doubt one of the biggest trends to rise up recently is that of house boating. The houseboat industry is gaining in popularity day by day and more and more people are discovering the potential of a houseboat sale as a great way to secure their own unique watercraft for a very reasonable price. To help people such as yourself, I have put this article together for people who wish to look further into buying a houseboat from a houseboat sale and just what exactly you have to look for when you attend a houseboat sale and wish to make a purchase whether you re a first time buyer or an experienced boater.
When attending a houseboat sale you should also check the age of the vessel and also the manufacturer that originally built the boat, do some research to see whether the builder is a popular and reliable builder and doesn t have a bad reputation. Even call the builder up and let them know that you are attending the houseboat sale for one of their boats and verify the background of it. When inspecting the houseboat sale go over the whole thing with a fine tooth comb from checking the engine log books to making sure the oven works properly. Also look for structural integrity and make sure there are no cracks throughout the craft and major parts are not rusting. Check the engine hours and verify the service log books and generally make sure they are in good condition. Also check the hull or pontoons to make sure they are in good condition and have whether or not they have been sandblasted and repainted recently.
Although a houseboat is essentially a marine water craft you still have to approach a houseboat sale in the same way you would a house made of bricks and motor because in hindsight this is essentially what you are buying, a house. So before you get started you should do some research into a houseboat sale and get a good feel for the boating market in regards to price size brands of builders etc. You should also consider the amount of passengers also know as berths that your desired houseboat should have before attending a houseboat sale. You don t want to buy a 5 berth houseboat if there is 6 members in your family do you! There are strict laws regarding how many people you can carry on a houseboat so this is very important.
Jason Rusch is a houseboat enthusiast that writes information articles for www.modernhouseboat.com for more of Jason s great houseboat articles head on over to the site!
Cruise Ship Dining Explained
There are many cruise ships now that have Freestyle Dining (Norwegian Cruises) or Choice Dining (Prince Cruise line) available. Or on Disney Cruise Lines they have what is called Rotational Dining . They have you and your table mates rotate through the three restaurants each evening.
CRUISE TIPS: There is usually open seating for breakfast and lunch in the main dining room. Be adventurous with the menu because if you don t like something you can send it back for a replacement. And if they have two things on the menu that you like ask for both of them. My husband, John, always orders the Filet Mignon and the Lobster Tail when they are served on the same night. Many times he tells the waiter to bring what the waiter recommends for that evening.
This means you don t have to choose first or second seating. (First seating is 6:00 to 6:30 and Second seating is usually 8:00-8:30). There can be more than one restaurant where you just walk in when you are ready to dine. Every ship will ask for your dining preference when you book your cruise. You can indicate first, second or flexible dining, whichever will make you more comfortable. The newer ships have a 24 hour dining spot which is always casual so if you don t want to do the formal nights you don t have to, although I find dressing up to be quite fun.
You will have many options for each meal. You may have any meal delivered to your room, taken in the buffet restaurant or in the dining room. There is usually outdoor dining around the pool with hot dogs and hamburgers, pizza, salads, even Tacos.
There are also alternative dining rooms available on some ships that require an additional fee but the service and food are generally 4 to 5 star and worth it if you want to splurge.
In my experience families with young children and people who go to bed early usually dine in first seating. But if you don t want to be on a schedule or want to meet new people every night, go for the alternative dining option. Of course you can always ask for a table for two, but be aware that there are only a few of them.
If you make a special request one night, John always asks for blue cheese, your waiter will bring it every night. They pride themselves on remembering your tastes. (This only happens when you choose traditional dining). On one cruise we asked for Melba toast, and you bet, every night we had Melba toast. There is one thing I always make clear to the waiter. I am not a big eater but I like to taste everything. I tell this to them the first night so they don t think I am unhappy with the food. It is their job to keep you happy and they take it very seriously.
If you don t want to eat in the main dining room almost all ships have a Lido caf © where it is casual but you order from a menu and are served by a waiter. It s one of the many choices if you don t want to participate in a formal night or if you just want to eat by yourselves. On Carnivals single cruises they encourage this style of dining so the singles can meet more people. There are exceptions to this but not many. On some of the newer ships the Lido is open 24 hours a day.
On most of the cruise lines they offer the food of the region that you are visiting. While on Hawaiian cruises expect to be served Hawaiian food. When on an Alaskan cruise you will be given the choices of salmon and Alaskan king crab legs. It makes more fun to dine on the local cuisine.
All of the cruise lines offer healthy alternative menus or what they call spa menus. So if you want low-fat, low-salt, low cholesterol, vegetarian or any other type of diet, they are available. It is best however to inform your travel agent of any special needs so they can notify the cruise line ahead of time. If you have special dietary needs make sure the cruise lines knows before hand. For example, Royal Caribbean cruises cater to food allergy, Kosher, Indian, Vegetarian and Gluten Free Diets.
To be really safe read all of the cruise reviews and cruise critics sites for each ships food and service ratings.
Happy Cruising, enjoy it, we do!
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
Mary Hanna has traveled the world by Air and Ship while writing eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles on Internet Marketing, Cruising, Gardening and Cooking. Visit her websites at: http://www.CruiseGold.com http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.CruisingTips.com
Brooklyn, New York Opens Its First Cruise Ship Port
by Roy Witman © 2006, All Rights Reserved
In 2003, New York announced the grand opening of a new alternative port for cruise lines. Because ports in Florida were becoming more and more crowded, additional docking facilities in interesting cities on the Eastern Seaboard were needed to provide cruise lines with a new home port. The port has been wildly popular. So much so that another has been added in nearby Brooklyn.
The Red Hook terminal in a neighborhood in Brooklyn opened in April 2006 and welcomed its first permanent resident, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 (formerly docked in Manhattan). Located on the Buttermilk Channel, the Brooklyn terminal gave the first increase in New York cruise ship pier capacity in over 30 years. With the likes of Cunard and Princess cruise lines as eager residents, the terminal has already become a success. Most other major cruise lines have also assigned vessels to sail from Brooklyn.
Princess Cruise lines will launch the Crown Princess from the Brooklyn dock in June 2006 for a Caribbean cruise. From June to October, Princess will offer numerous Caribbean tours, including calls on ports in popular destinations such as the Virgin Islands, Grand Turk and Jamaica. Star Princess will begin cruises from Brooklyn in October 2006 visiting ports up and down the New England and Canadian seacoast.
But Brooklyn? It doesn’t seem like the most exciting location for a cruise ship port. On the contrary. While not normally publicized as a vibrant city with plenty to do, Brooklyn offers cruisers an opportunity to spend a few days in New York before or after their tour.
Very similar to Manhattan, Brooklyn offers a trendy nightlife as well as diverse cultures and eclectic cuisine. Bars, clubs and restaurants line the streets, offering a tremendous variety of options for visitors and locals alike.
If culture is your thing, Chinatown is always a wonderful experience. In addition, Flatbush offers the largest Caribbean population in the United States. In either place, you’ll delight in the authentic sights, sounds and tastes on every corner.
With spectacular views of many popular attractions, including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty, the Red Hook terminal also offers exciting options for sightseers. However, New York City is just a short cab ride away and opens a virtual treasure trove of attractions, shows, museums and affairs.
Overall, Brooklyn offers greater value (with lower rates on hotels) and a central location, making it a wonderful choice for both vacationers and the cruise lines. If New York is closer for you than Florida, or if you’ve been longing to visit the Big Apple, consider booking your next cruise from the Red Hook terminal in Brooklyn. Your travel agent will have a complete listing of which cruise lines sail from Red Hook and the destinations available.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center based in Yonkers, New York. Visit them online today at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> for the best deals, including <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/alaska_cruises.htm"> Alaska cruises</a> and <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/hawaii_cruises.htm"> Hawaii cruises</a>. You'll find their service exceptional and their attention to detail second to none.
Your Bahamas Cruise Under The Sun And In An Ocean Of Blue
There is nothing that can match the pure pleasure and decadence of a Bahamas cruise
Caribbean Cruises are your best value for 2007
Caribbean cruises are the best value for 2007 because the highest demand is for Alaska Cruises and Mediterranean Cruises . A simple check of cruise rates will show that both Carnival cruises and Royal Caribbean cruises have lowered their usual rates on Caribbean cruises compared with last years rates. Both cruise lines have strengthened their presence in both Alaska and the Mediterranean to capitalize on this trend. Royal Caribbean has moved several of their Voyager-class ships to the Mediterranean from the Caribbean and Carnival has just launched their newest ship, the Carnival Freedom, in the Mediterranean-the first time Carnival has debuted a new ship in a market other than the Caribbean. Even Norwegian Cruises is moving its ship, the Pride of Hawaii, to the Mediterranean! Although this has left the Caribbean market with less ships, the rates are underperforming all other destinations. This means it is the perfect place to look for bargain rates and promotions. This is an ideal opportunity for some to book a new ship that otherwise would have been cost-prohibitive last year. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean have some fantastic 8 day and longer Caribbean itineraries that are just beautiful bargains waiting to be picked up by the savvy researcher. To the victor goes the spoils-so to speak! The cruise industry has always been cyclical. What is hot this year, won’t be hot next year, so you have to roll with punches, so to speak. If you follow the crowd, and the trends, it will cost you. Going against the crowd will save you a lot of money! Not only are the rates low for the Caribbean, but the promotions the cruise lines are offering a better than normal, also. It is not uncommon to find onboard-credit deals and free upgrades being offered on certain Caribbean itineraries and ships. Look here for more information on all Caribbean Cruises and good price hunting!
President of All Aboard Cruises Corp <a href=http://www.allaboardcruisescorp.com>Caribbean Cruises</a> <a href=http://www.allaboardcruisescorp.com>Alaska Cruises</a> <a href=http://www.allaboardcruisescorp.com>Mediterranean Cruises</a>
Mystic Travel -Yangtze River Cruise
For those of you going on to China ( or already there) if your looking for something well - mystical - I recommend the Yangtze river cruise for sheer splendor and spectacle .
Go sometime in April when the weather is temperate. You’ll marvel at the mist in the morning surrounding the gorges that impose its majesty on its visitors. Bring a lap-top to ensure you have enough space for your pictures- your going to need it!
Your journey begins in Chongqding where you board the Victoria Katarina which will be your home for three lovely nights, this fine ship offers an array of shipboard amenities, including a lounge, panoramic observation deck, outdoor jacuzzi, fitness center and beauty salon. Cabins are well appointed and each has a private bath and balcony - perfect for viewing 120 miles of spectacular gorges as you float past the ancient cities and villages that dot the majestic Yangtze.
Along the way you’ll pass Shibouzhaou’s grand pagoda a breath taking monument built without the use of a single nail! Further on the demons in Fengdu’s rooftops regard you with an aspect from beyond -tales
of ghosts and specters are common in these areas-(not for the faint of heart)
Arrive in Wushun and cruise through the stunningly beautiful Three Lesser Gorges then continue to the site of the biggest dam in the world. You disembark in Yichang and nicely round off your trip by flying out to Beijing , Shanghai or Hong Kong for some shopping.
For more information about luxury cruises and mystical places to go hit up-
Visit http://www.deluxecruisenews.com
Franz von Muhlfeld
veteran traveller of over 40 years…
Cruise vacations from dream to reality
People go cruising for different reasons. One thing is for sure that the experience of a cruise will always keep its unique images alive in your brain. Here are some tips and guidelines you should take into account when you discuss the details of a cruise with your cruise travel agent. They would help you to organize your thoughts and ask direct and targeted questions without unnecessarily wasting your time, for a proper understanding of the situation. - There are different types of packages (family packages or single travellers packages) offered by cruises line; choose the one that fits you best according to your individual requirements; - Who comes with you? (your children, you need a romantic getaway, you are a honeymooner or plan to get married ” some cruise lines offer wedding services, too); - How long do you plan to cruise? (from three to fourteen nights, to world cruises which are the longest, lasting up to three months); - Where and how to search? You have two alternatives: a cruise travel agent or agency or the websites of cruise lines; - Port of departure. You can choose it by the proximity to your home, if you want to save money and avoid expensive airfare; - Facilities offered during the cruise (for instance, if you like to gamble you may want to choose a cruise line that has casinos on board; maybe facilities for your children which are offered by all major cruise lines); - Land and shore excursions (they are offered by all cruise lines, and last from two to three days, before, after or even during the cruise vacation). This kind of excursion gives you the opportunity to explore new cultures, destinations, visit new places, practice water sports, do some shopping etc. - Destinations and suggestions: Europe ” a cruise in Europe is recommended to be taken for at least fourteen days of cruising, because of the long distance between the ports of embarkation; Weekend Cruises ” for at least three days; Alaska ” for summers only; Mid Winter Cruise ” The Caribbean (for a two weeks vacation one should choose a line that alternates between Eastern and Western Caribbean, thus you would have the chance to visit more islands), South America; A Perfect Cruise Experience A perfect cruise experience means no unwanted surprises. This depends on the seriousness and professionalism of the agent or agency you have chosen. Give honesty and require an honest opinion of your cruise travel agent, concerning the cruise you are about to choose. Ask your cruise agent for some tips and thorough details that might help you during the cruise and help you to avoid unexpected or completely new and unknown situations. It s easier to get these pieces of information from relatives, friends, and acquaintances that have been there before you and have already experienced that particular cruise offer or perhaps a related one. Another source of information is made available by cruise reviews which are offered by Internet websites and forums (very subjective, but suggestive), magazines, newspapers etc. Sometimes the decision for a vacation comes unexpectedly, so here are some guidelines that might help you to plan a proper cruise vacation. You might not have in mind all these details when you are about to take the decision so these guidelines are meant to be helpful. This cruise may give you years of pleasant recollections or years of misfortunes to forget.
For more resources on <a href="http://www.cruise-heaven.com/cheap-cruises.php">finding a cheap cruise</a> or getting a deal on a <a href="http://www.cruise-heaven.com/last-minute-cruises.php">last minute cruise</a>, please visit Cruise-heaven.com If you re looking for romance on your vacation, make sure to read the following <a href="http://www.dating-guru.com">dating tips and advice</a>.
Destination Overview: Cruising Europe and the Baltic Sea
by Roy Witman © 2007, All Rights Reserved
With histories that stretch back as far as time, Europe and the Baltic Sea are two regions that are always exciting to visit. Needless to say, exploring an entire continent would take a great deal of time, so most travelers split their vacations: seeing different sections with each trip. Making choices about which areas to tour first can be a heartbreaking process. After all, they are all so beautiful!
Princess Cruises’ new ship, “Emerald Princess,” is launching with a maiden itinerary to Europe. Along with some traditional favorites, she will also drop anchor at some less crowded ports, which are filled with interest and intrigue. Let’s look at some of the highlights of her European voyages, and perhaps you’ll be better equipped to narrow down your choices.
Unique Destinations in Europe
The Greek Isles
Always popular, the Greek Isles are filled with mystery and fascination. From touring the ancient coliseum and aqueducts to lunching at seaside cafes overlooking magnificent ocean views, the Greek Isles deliver beauty at every turn. With something for all your senses, you’ll taste incredible Mediterranean foods that are truly unlike any others in the world, see brilliant blue water with a stunning backdrop of green mountainsides dotted with classic white buildings. And you’ll delve into the mythical Greek gods and the power they held over this culture.
The Holy Land
Princess hasn’t sailed to the Holy Land in over five years. Adding a variety of tours to the lineup of both “Emerald Princess” and “Royal Princess” bring exciting new options for world travelers. Walk through Jerusalem and Galilee, following in the footsteps of Jesus. Visit the Isle of Patmos where the apostle John was exiled. Tour religiously significant regions of Greece, Italy and Turkey, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
According to their website, “The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. The World Heritage List boasts 830 properties including 644 cultural, 162 natural and 24 mixed properties in 138 States Parties.”
The Baltic Sea
Royal splendor awaits for those who choose tours to the Baltic Sea. With storybook grandeur, you’ll visit some of the most sought-after cities in this region. St. Petersburg, Russia, holds the majesty of ornate palaces and cathedrals draped with royal blue and gold. Stockholm, Sweden, comprised of 14 islands, delights the senses with a colorful cityscape surrounded by water in a country that was once ruled by Vikings and Czars.
In addition to these, you’ll also have your choice of other well-loved cities, including Oslo, Norway; Berlin, Germany; Copenhagen, Denmark and more.
When planning your next vacation, consider all that Europe and the Baltic Sea have to offer. Without much effort, you can find countless sites to see while touring these areas of the world. Holding something of interest for everyone in your family, any trip to these historic regions is sure to be the trip of a lifetime.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> offering the best deals including <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/european_cruises.htm"> European cruises</a>. You'll find their service exceptional and their attention to detail second to none.
A New Queen Rules the Seas - Queen Victoria Sets Sail December 2007
by Roy Witman © 2006, All Rights Reserved
For the first time in its history, Cunard Cruise Line will have three stately ladies ruling the seas. The trio includes Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth 2 and - as of December 2007 - Queen Victoria. Though many aspects of Queen Victoria will ring true with Cunard cruise enthusiasts, she quickly shows she has her own personality and her own agenda.
What passengers will relish most is Queen Victoria’s dedication to the Cunard standard of luxurious White Star Service at every turn. This dedication by every crewmember ensures each guest is utterly pampered with his/her every request being met.
Grandeur and Elegance Reign Supreme
Following in her sisters’ footsteps, Queen Victoria has been elegantly adorned with an exceptional d cor reminiscent of the most elegant ships ever to sail. A common element found throughout the ship is the use of interesting and sometimes dramatic staircases.
The English Library spans two decks and houses over 6,000 books. The central point is a delightfully wonderful spiral staircase leading from 2 Deck to 3 Deck. Two full-time librarians are available to assist with finding the perfect novel to whisk you away to worlds unknown.
The three-tiered Grand Lobby offers finishes of mahogany and marble along with intricate metalwork and ornamental glass. However, what is truly grand about this lobby is the sweeping staircase laced with wrought iron and a marble stringer. Unmistakably sophisticated, this centerpiece is offset by a chandelier and other details one would expect on a ship of this caliber.
The Britannia Restaurant, the main dining room, set in the stern of the vessel, offers yet another classic architectural highlight with its expansive staircase framed by decorative pillars, archways, and bronze and glasswork accents. Described by Cunard as a “contemporary interpretation of a dramatic and elegant restaurant from the golden age of liners,” Britannia will offer exceptional cuisine intended to impress travelers from all across the globe.
New Innovations Enhance Tradition
Those familiar with Cunard will recognize the comfortably sized interior and ocean view staterooms. Expertly designed to offer the most space, all cabins offer bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, safe, refrigerator, satellite TV, 24-hour room service and nightly turndown service complete with pillow chocolates.
For those seeking a more elaborate cruise vacation, Queen Victoria will not disappoint. Staterooms are available in Princess Grill and Queen’s Grill suites with up to 2,131 square feet. Amenities include private courtyards, dedicated wait staff, marble bath with whirlpool and impressive ocean views via your private balcony.
Delightful surprises aboard Queen Victoria include al fresco dining in the Courtyard Terrace, private box seats on the upper level of the Royal Court Theater and a grand conservatory complete with retractable glass roof and luxurious rattan furniture.
Queen Victoria also offers the latest technology via an Internet Caf and the ConneXions Conference Center, which will accommodate enrichment programs as well as business events.
Sailing the World
Queen Victoria will enter service December 2007 with two maiden voyages: one 10-day voyage on December 11 to Northern Europe and one 16-day cruise on December 21 to the Canary Islands and Morocco. Unlike her sister ships, Queen Victoria will offer primarily longer itineraries of 21 days or longer.
Sailing the world, Queen Victoria can transport guests to such exotic locales as Singapore, Sydney, the Caribbean and the Mexican Riviera. For those who truly want it all, Queen Victoria offers 106-day world cruises as well.
Steeped in a heritage of classic elegance, Queen Victoria is a legacy offering incomparable service combined with unique onboard experiences and exceptional ports of call. For avid cruisers, she will provide any opportunity for adventure and romance like no other.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center. Visit them online today at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> for the best deals on vacations from including <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/cunard_cruise_lines.htm">Cunard Cruise Lines</a> including the luxurious <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/cunard_cruise_lines.htm">Queen Mary 2</a>.
Royal Caribbean's Freedom-Class Fleet: Newer, Bigger, Bolder
by Roy Witman © 2007, All Rights Reserved
With one of the newest fleets afloat, Royal Caribbean is beaming when it comes to their Freedom-Class ships. And with good reason! The namesake, “Freedom,” is currently touring the Caribbean and - if she is any indication - the others in the lineup will cause quite a stir in the cruise industry. Quite frankly, the Freedom class is impressive and offers some truly unique features.
At over 160,000 tons, each of the three ships in the Freedom-Class fleet carries 3,634 passengers at double occupancy. They also have several other things in common.
FlowRider - The first ever surf park at sea, the FlowRider is a blast! This exciting surfing ride gives you the feeling that you’re hanging ten on a Maui wave without ever leaving the ship. It may be wet and wild, but it’s also easy to master, so everyone can participate. Instructors are always on hand to help when needed.
H20 Zone - Kids and their parents get in on the water-filled fun, too, in the H20 Zone. Brilliantly colored hoops, mushrooms and other shapes sprinkle and splash you with water, as you cool off. No other ships have this type of innovative water park.
Solarium - If a little de-stressing is what you need, the Solarium with cantilevered whirlpools is just the ticket. With its rainforest motif, the Solarium extends 12 feet beyond the sides of the ship, so you get a view like no other! What could be more relaxing than feeling as if you’re floating across the ocean like a bird?
Rock-Climbing Wall - This massive tower is another Royal Caribbean first. Standing almost four stories high, this rock wall has 12 trails to follow. Guests of every activity level can give it a try! Your reward? Not only will you get some great exercise, but you’ll also find a breathtaking view at the top!
Full-Size Everlast Boxing Ring - Complete with safety gear, this is the first boxing ring at sea. Enjoy sparring sessions with fully qualified instructors, mirror boxing, speed bags, master bags, one-on-one training sessions and more. It’s bound to be a hit!
Ice-Skating Rink - Put on a pair of skates and chill out on this full-size ice-skating rink. It’s a great way to chill out after spending time in a tropical paradise.
Royal Promenade - Not just a glorified hallway with shops, this is Main Street U.S.A.! Cobblestone walkways, street performers and more make this a fun place to be. Shops, restaurants, bright colors, skylights and bridges are at every turn. You’ll find the unique as well as the familiar, like Ben & Jerry’s ice cream!
With so much in common, how could you possibly choose between these three ships? Look for their scheduled itineraries. “Freedom of the Seas,” launched in 2006, offers 32 captivating Western, Eastern and Southern Caribbean ports of call, departing from 10 different cities. “Liberty of the Seas” will launch in May 2007 with a limited Caribbean schedule, including the wildly popular ports of Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Montego Bay, St. Maarten and San Juan. And, coming in May 2008, “Independence of the Seas” will sail to classic European destinations.
Even if you’ve taken a dozen cruises before, sailing on a Freedom-Class ship is a must! With so many “firsts,” it will be a whole new vacation experience for you and your family.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> offering the best deals on <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/european_cruises.htm"> European cruises</a>.
