posted by admin on Jul 6
Cruise Tips To Maximize Your Cruise Vacation
You are getting ready for your much anticipated cruise vacation. The best way to maximize your cruise travel is to have some of these cruise tips about the little things you should know. Many cruisers have questions about phoning home, seasickness, laundry facilities, and photography while on their cruise vacation. These are not big items that should concern you during your cruise travel but helpful hints nonetheless.
Phoning home always gives one peace of mind when they are on vacation. It is natural to want to check on your children, or check into the office, just remember that ship to shore phone costs can be very hefty. They can cost up to $15 minute, so I if you must, keep it brief. You can use your cell phone but be aware that in some areas roaming charges will apply. Your cell phone will not work in Europe unless you have universal service.
It is very important that you leave the information on how to contact you at home in case of an emergency. When you receive your cruise packet there will be contact information included. Make sure you leave the name of the ship, the cruise line you are traveling with, and the itinerary that you plan to follow. Make it very clear that it is for emergencies only.
There is a way to get around this expense and that is to buy a phone card and call home from your ports of call. The connection will be far greater and your savings too. Be aware that this is where the crew members make their calls home so you may want to venture further from the dock to find a not so busy public phone.
All of the modern ships are wired for the internet so you can stay in touch with email. This is a much easier and cheaper way to but your mind at ease. On some ships if you are a frequent cruiser the internet time is free. If you are not, connections can run from fifty cents to a dollar a minute. Just keep in mind that they are not high speed hook ups so they will be slow. Compose offline and then send your message. Some ships will offer you package deals to save a little money. Here again, if you can wait until you get to port, internet cafes ashore are relatively inexpensive.
Seasickness is almost a moot point on today’s cruise ships. They are so large that you don’t even know you are moving unless you look out the window or you are up on deck. With today’s technology for weather tracking the cruise lines know in advance if any storms are approaching and therefore can avoid the area. Earlier cruise ships had stabilizers but nothing compared fo today’s technology which enables them to counter act any motion the sea has to offer.
If that doesn’t calm your fears about seasickness and cruise travel there are a number of ways to ensure a very comfortable cruise. Take a cruise vacation in an area of the world that has calm waters on a modern ship with the aforementioned stabilizers. It is best to book a cabin in the middle of the ship on one of the lower levels. If just looking at a horizon that is moving sends you into a tizzy, book an inside cabin. A little known cruise tip is to arrange your beds in alignment with the ship, bow to stern. Rocking is always easier to handle than a rolling motion. Once, you’ve got yourself situated on board go up on deck and stare at a fixed position on the horizon to get your body use to the motion.
Your doctor may have some medication you can take, or try the acupuncture bracelets that go around your wrists. If you do feel queasy eat crackers and green apples to settle your stomach. Ginger capsules have been said to work wonders and are available in your health food store. By all means avoid any alcoholic beverages which will only make your symptoms worse.
On board laundry services are very expensive. Book a ship that has an onboard laundry room for passengers so you can do your own. These laundry rooms will be equipped with an iron and an ironing board. An alternative is to pack a small bottle of laundry liquid and a few clothes pins in you luggage, hand wash them in your stateroom and hang them from the shower line provided.
Photography is always a big question. Should you bring a camera or rely on the ships photographer? The answer is to bring your own. If you don’t want to worry about your expensive digital camera, buy a lot of the throw away types. Pick up a few waterproof ones too for when you take you snorkel adventure. Take twice as many as you think you need. If you don’t use them on this cruise vacation you can always use them at the next holiday or birthday celebration.
You could also opt to pick up a cheap digital. You can buy them for about $20.00 and you won’t have to worry about losing it since your expensive one is at home. These are usually smaller than the pricey ones so they are easier to carry around.
On formal nights you will want to get your picture taken by the ships photographer. These pictures are wonderful memories of your cruise but they are expensive. The ships photographer will take pictures of you all through the cruise. Getting on and off the ship, on deck, in the dining room at your table and when you enter the dining room on some nights. Although these pictures are fun, you are not obligated to buy them. If you are on a cruise vacation for a special occasion like a honeymoon or an anniversary, splurge and buy them, they will be more than just memories.
These are just a few cruise tips for the little things you should know about cruise travel. Having this knowledge before your cruise vacation will help you on the way to clear sailing.
Happy Cruising!
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
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
The Master of Design: Joe Farcus, Carnival Cruise Line's Ship Architect
by Roy Witman © 2006, All Rights Reserved
Who in the world came up with these ideas? Aboard the Carnival Celebration you’ll find yourself transported into the heyday of New Orleans Mardi Gras. On Fascination and Hollywood, you can step back into the golden era of ocean liners with vintage designs throughout the ships. But who thinks up and executes these amazing design plans? Joe Farcus, that’s who!
Joe Farcus is the ship architect for Carnival Cruise Lines. It is his vision passengers see each time they step foot onto a Fun Ship . Raised in Miami Beach, Florida, Farcus always fantasized about ships. His constant sketching of ocean liners was no doubt part of the reason he pursued an architectural degree. After graduation from the University of Florida in 1967, Farcus landed his first Carnival project - the redesign of the Carnivale - while employed for a local architectural firm.
Described as bold, daring and sometimes even brash, Farcus creates interior designs from his heart and his imagination. Working from an initial central concept, Farcus expands from idea to application, as his vision touches every part of the ship. From atriums to restaurants to staterooms, full control of the aesthetics of the ship is placed in the hands of this one man, as he gives each ship its own distinct personality.
Miracle is whimsical with an array of fictional characters splashed about throughout her common areas. Spirit is refined, featuring a Louis XIV-inspired casino and Chippendale Internet Caf . Destiny is dazzling and bright with a towering mirrored atrium elevator that stretches nine-decks high.
Where do the ideas come from? The Amber Palace show lounge (on Glory) was fashioned after the Amber Room in Russia while the Starry Night Jazz Club (aboard Pride) was inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s painting of the same name.
What lies ahead for future ships? Freedom, set to debut in 2007, will carry a central theme of Decades Through the Centuries. From ancient Babylonia to the Victorian era to 1970s disco and beyond, passengers will walk through time, as they sail the sea. When asked about the concept, Farcus replied, “I thought it would be interesting to go back in time to find inspiration for the various public rooms. As always, I tried to use the function of the room to suggest how the room will reflect the central design idea.”
And other ships? What does Farcus hold in store for them? Splendor is slated to enter service in the fall of 2008, and Carnival has a super liner (yet to be named) under construction and scheduled for delivery in fall 2009. “I design each ship to tell a story, and it gives me great joy to be able to share these stories with guests.” So much so, in fact, that Carnival will soon be broadcasting videos aboard ship highlighting Joe Farcus and his design process.
With a seemingly never-ending supply of brilliant design concepts, Joe Farcus will surely continue to contribute to the fun that the Carnival Fun Ships have become so famous for.
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 including <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/hawaii_cruises.htm"> Hawaii cruises</a> from <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/carnival_cruise_line.htm">Carnival Cruise Line</a> and others.
Go On An Inexpensive Cruise - Your Life May Depend On It
One of the main keys to getting an inexpensive cruise is being able to move quickly on the deals that you find. Failing to act immediately makes your efforts in looking for the most inexpensive cruise almost impossible. You have to learn to act quickly, because someone might get your spot.
Cruise lines that are lower in price are all the time getting consumed by vacationers and travelers seeking a comfortable, relaxing, and entertaining getaway. If you find something that you believe you’ll enjoy, and you’ve compared all of the other options; thus landing on that one - pounce on it, and fast.
Looking for the best inexpensive cruise means you have to look at a lot of cruise line websites. The web is a perfect way to compare cruise line prices. If you’re looking for an inexpensive cruise with a local line whose ships are clean and safe, but may not have all the luxuries of the tradition cruise liner, talk to a friend who might have found a great deal, and enjoyed their cruise.
One entertaining option is to try looking for an inexpensive cruise during spring break, these are usually very exciting cruises, but make sure you compare prices and the quality of the cruise. You don’t want to be stuck on a party boat if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway.
Finding the right cruise for the right price all depends on you and what you are looking for. Are you wanting to party? Relax? Or is it a business cruise? Cruises are a great way to fulfill many of your needs in all of those areas.
Keep in mind, however, that if you are looking for an inexpensive cruise in a very low price range you’ll probably end up in a shorter cruise (maybe 2 - 3 days) or cruising in the off season - which isn’t all that bad if you do enough initial research on which cruises go where, and what they have to offer.
If you are only looking for a very inexpensive cruise that’s short, but long enough to get your sanity back, then it will do fine with smaller ships and even smaller cabins. But keep in the back of your mind, those looking for an inexpensive cruise, you would have to look long and hard to find anything comparable for just a weekend getaway.
Although it’s not always the case, some inexpensive cruises can be a 5-day cruise for less than $600 per person, which is not the most expensive, but can be a little too pricey (but think of it as a little more than 100 dollars - close to a hotel rental, with more entertainment, food, and relaxation). To lower the price a little, you might want to consider going with more people and opting for a group rate if your cruise line allows it, or a family rate. These often get a cheaper deal per person.
Although they aren’t the absolute pinnacle of all inexpensive cruise lines, Carnival Cruise lines are one of the more popular inexpensive options. They have great rates for very good quality service, and entertainment. But don’t limit your cruise options to just Carnival.
In comparing your cruise options, and critiquing the service, entertainment, and food aboard Carnival or other lines, it’s important to understand that if they are inexpensive cruise lines they might not be as prestigious as others, but most pack a lot in for the amount that you spend on them.
In conclusion, I want to remind you that the main thing in getting an inexpensive cruise is being able to move very quickly. Cruises are great ways to relax, and most people realize this, so they strike at any deal they can get their hands on. So act quickly, and have a great time!
Imagine yourself relaxing on your dream cruise. Now that you know what you want go to http://inexpensivecruises.blogspot.com for key ways to making that dream a reality and a cheap one at that.
Planning A Cruise Vacation For The Perfect Cruise Experience
Cruise vacations are one of the most exciting and fun vacations you and your family will ever have. Planning your cruise vacation is the key to making the most of the cruise experience.
Cruise ships are floating hotels that sail through ocean while you enjoy all the hotel s amenities provided. They have casinos, swimming pools, theaters, restaurants, shopping centers or boutiques, spas, gyms and more.
As great as taking a vacation on cruise ships may seem, you still need to know how to plan a cruise ship vacation properly so you have the perfect cruise experience. You need to know about the different types of packages the cruise lines offer.
When planning a cruise ship vacation you need to know how to choose one that will meet your expectation or tailor to your needs. Here are some guidelines that you can follow to plan your cruise travel and enjoy the perfect cruise experience:
Think of who you want to take with you on your cruise vacation. There are many different packages offered by cruise lines. There are packages for the whole family and there are packages for single travelers.
Will you be taking the cruise vacation with children? Maybe you will take your significant other for a romantic getaway. There are cruise ships that are tailored for children and there are cruise lines that cater to single cruisers and honeymooners. There are even some ships that offer wedding services. What could be better than to get married on the ship and have your honeymoon built in?
Decide how long you want to cruise. If you just want to try it out, opt for a three day cruise. Normally, cruises start at three nights and can go anywhere from seven to fourteen days. But there are also world cruises that can last as long as three months. My advice is if you are going to cruise in Europe you should pick a fourteen day cruise because of the expense and long plane rides to get to your port of embarkation. If you live near a port and you just want to take a long weekend choose of three or four day cruise. Decide what cruise travel is best for you.
Choose the perfect destination for you and your family. Alaska is beautiful but can only be cruised in the summer months. If you live in the colder climes you may want to take a mid winter cruise to the Caribbean or even South America. If you want your cruise travel to be in the Caribbean and you want to spend two weeks on your cruise vacation, choose a line that alternates between the Eastern and Western Caribbean. This cruise vacation takes you to many different islands.
The cruise lines have a variety of destinations to choose from. Visit your cruise travel agent to go over the different itineraries or check out the individual websites of the cruise lines.
Consider the port of departure. Since 9/11 cruises have been emphasizing home port cruising. Now there are many cruises that depart from Bayonne, New Jersey, Galveston, Texas, or Seattle, Washington, not just Miami and Fort Lauderdale.. Depart from the one closest to you and you will save money on expensive airfare.
Speak to a knowledgeable cruise travel agent. Make sure they have personally sailed on many different cruise ships so they can give you an honest opinion on what each cruise line has to offer and which would give you the perfect cruise experience.
A cruise travel agent will also be able to supply you with cruise tips. Scour the cruise reviews for additional cruise tips.
Large cruise lines have a variety of activities and facilities that you can use on the ship. If you like to gamble then choosing a cruise ship with casinos is probably right for you. Or if you are taking your kids with you, a cruise ship that offers activities and facilities for children would be the best choice for your cruise travel. For instance, Disney is, of course, geared toward children but they do not have casinos. So if you are taking the family but you want to gamble steer away from Disney and choose one of the other major cruise lines. Almost all of them have children s programs. If you don t want to be on a ship with children sail on one of the fancier lines that don t cater to children. Here, again, it pays to read as many cruise reviews as you can to pick up additional cruise tips.
Cruise vacations do not necessarily mean that you have to spend all your vacation time onboard. All the cruise ships offer land and shore excursions. The cruise lines offer pre and post cruise land vacations usually for two or three days.
Land excursions are a great way to explore different cultures and destinations when taking a cruise vacation. You can choose from many activities once you reach a port of call. You can go kayaking, scuba diving or go shopping in the markets of the ports of call.
Following these guidelines will give you some ideas on planning your cruise vacation properly. Proper planning will give you a more exciting cruise experience.
Happy Cruising!
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
Resolving to Get Fit for the New Year? Cruising Is the Way to Go!
by Roy Witman © 2007, All Rights Reserved
Countless people make New Year’s resolutions to get into shape and lose weight. Many of them fail reportedly due to lack of motivation, support or a viable plan. There is a new trend developing among fitness enthusiasts, however, that overcomes these three obstacles while delivering luxury, scrumptious food and fun. What’s the trend? Cruising into shape.
Cruise ships have offered well-equipped fitness centers on their vessels for years. However, with fitness and nutrition experiencing an increase in popularity, many ships have taken great strides to create an atmosphere that nurtures a healthy lifestyle without compromising the lavish cruise experience. With onboard fitness instructors, innovative and fun exercise opportunities and healthy gourmet meals, a cruise ship has become the perfect starting point for your New Year’s resolution.
Fun Is the Key to Exercise
If you don’t enjoy exercise, chances are you won’t keep up any fitness routine you establish. But with exciting activities available to you 24/7, you can quickly discover new ways to keep moving while having a blast.
For example, instructor-led aerobics, stretch and cardio classes are available on most cruise ships as are jogging tracks, volleyball (on deck or in the pool) and dancing. With professionally created fitness sessions designed to be fun, it doesn’t seem like exercise at all. Royal Caribbean offers ice skating, rock climbing, trampolines and even boxing. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) provides a bowling alley and basketball while Holland America offers personal trainers plus yoga and Pilates classes.
Each cruise line has its own key fitness features, so check for the one(s) that pique your interest.
Exceptional Dining for Those on a Diet
But what about the food? One of the greatest pleasures of cruising is indulging in gourmet meals prepared by world-class chefs. Fitness buffs are often nervous about entering a den of food sin and blowing everything they have worked for. The question that is often asked is, “Can I indulge and not regret it later”? The answer is a resounding yes!
The cruise lines constantly have their pulse on public opinion. That includes requests for amazingly delicious meals that offer less fat, sugar and other undesirable carbs. These flavorful meals are just as luxurious, just as tempting and will have you feeling just as spoiled. All without any guilt.
You can even make special dietary requests before you embark on your voyage. Check with your cruise line for details.
What better way to get into shape than while surrounded by a staff that can pamper and spoil you 24/7? Would you rather suffer through the beginning stages of shaping up or be counseled and aided by personal trainers? Would you rather starve yourself with rabbit food or dine on scrumptious meals prepared by professional chefs? Would you rather pound out mile after mile on a gym treadmill or take part in activities that get you moving while having the time of your life?
If you’re serious about shaping up, then you won’t find any better place to begin (or to maintain!) than a voyage at sea.
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> and <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/mediterranean_cruises.htm">Mediterranean cruises</a>.
How to Get the Best Price for a Cruise Ship Vacation on a Budget
Every year, individuals and families dream about taking a vacation. Big plans often lead to downsized itineraries and travels because of monetary limits. This is especially true with a family. However, with prudent budgeting and planning, anyone can have the vacation of their dreams. A popular dream vacation is on a cruise ship. Most families stop at the planning stages because they often think that such a trip is unaffordable. Some simple steps can improve the probability of this dream becoming a reality. It all starts with budgeting. Simple steps include: 1) Make a daily spending diary. Write down all the spending that occurs in the household. Bills, groceries, gas, movies, all need to be accounted for. At the end of each week or month, add the expenses and subtract from all income. 2) Look at the list and see which expense can be eliminated or reduced. Get creative. Gas expenses can be reduced by carpooling. Grocery expenses can be lowered by shopping with coupons, warehouse stores, and private label goods. 3) Open a special savings account for your trip. It is best to have a routine. Some individuals find that taking a certain percentage from their paycheck and depositing the funds in their savings account works well. Other people take any savings from their expenses and place it into the bank. For example, movies can be rented instead of going to the cinema. If it costs a family $50 for a theater outing and renting a movie costs $5, the savings of $45 is deposited in the special vacation account. 4) One of the most important steps in the budgeting process is to write down the goal. Describe what type of cruise, destination, time of year, and total costs. The more detailed the writing of the goal, the more powerful the results. Something special happens when goal setting. Once a goal is set, your subconscious takes the best path to obtaining the written details. By the way, goal setting is very effective and should be used in all aspects of your life. Budgeting and goal setting is just one aspect of making sure the cruise vacation becomes reality. When the savings account balance approaches the desired travel cost, it is time get the best price for the cruise. 1) Contact as many travel agents as possible to get pricing. Some agents only specialize in one or two cruise lines. Often, individual agents get special promotions from cruise lines and the savings are passed on to the traveler. 2) Ask about cash rebates. Some common rebates include free passage for third and fourth passengers, free air fare, flat rates for inside and outside room cabins. 3) Be sure to call the cruise ship company or check their website. Special deals are sometimes found that aren t offered anywhere else. 4) Don t forget to check the online travel sites. Get on the email lists to be notified of special last minute deals. 5) If you are adventurous, you can contact the cruise ship company at the last minute to get special rates for unfilled room cabins. 6) Also consider any discounts you may be able to get with any affiliations such as credit unions, triple A, and senior discounts. In the beginning, it may seem impossible to obtain the necessary funds to go on a cruise ship vacation. However, with prudent planning, goal setting, and budgeting, you can soon realize your dream.
Darren Takenaga is a serious world traveler and is constantly discovering tips and information to help his fellow travelers make their next vacation a lifelong, happy, memory. Visit http://www.TravelShipCruises.com to discover various cruise packages, itineraries, and tips for a wonderful cruise vacation. Email: darren.takenaga@gmail.com The author of this article has authorized its distribution with the requirement that it be published in its entirety, without changes, including the author s resource box.
Quick tips to plan your travel to Croatia from Italy
After many years of conflict throughout the former Yugoslavia, the area is now enjoying a period of peace and stability and has become a very popular tourist destination indeed. In the last ten years Croatia is emerging as one of Europe’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, and it is not surprising really, if we consider what Croatia has to offer to travellers.
There you will find the Mediterranean as it once was, framed in a total coastline of over 6000 km of mild climate nature, beautiful mountains with forests, lakes, rivers and waterfalls, friendly and simple people, inexpensive and convenient
Croatia boasts some of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in Europe: the Croatian coast is an absolute wonder to behold! The country has a long and colourful history, and this is most evident in the various architectural styles on show in its towns, cities and islands. Some of the country’s most beautiful buildings, many of them former churches, have since been renovated into hotels and guesthouses, offering visitors a wonderful opportunity to get a real taste of Croatia.
WHAT TO DO THERE
Once there, all you have to do is choose where you’re going to stay and what you’re going to do with your time. Accommodation wise, Croatia caters for all budgets and all tastes, from five star city-centre hotels that cater for your every need, to basic camping sites up in the country’s numerous national parks. As for activities; you can hit the beach and go diving, sailing, or just take it easy and while away the hours sunbathing; hit the shops and take advantage of the good exchange rate; go sightseeing and learn about Croatia’s rich history; or be adventurous and go rafting along the river. And, if you are a gourmet and a connoisseur of fine food, or simply like tasty and healthy food, you will certainly more than enjoy Croatia. the choice is yours.
TRAVELLING TO CROATIA
Due to the long, narrow shape of the country, much of Croatia’s land is situated by the sea. As a result, boat and ferry travel has become an important means of transport to both local people and visiting tourists, and it can be considered a relatively comfortable and enjoyable way of getting around Croatia. There are plenty of ferry services operating in and out of the various ports. Many of these simply run domestic services up and down the coast and across to the beautiful islands dotted around the Adriatic, but a growing number of routes are being established that link Croatia with other countries, with Italy being the best served with a number of good services running daily.
Getting to Croatia from Italy by Ferry, there are a few things you should take into consideration, like the frequency of the Ferry services, booking rules, and places where buy tickets
Although passenger and car ferries do operate throughout the year, Car ferries to and from Croatia get extremely busy during the summer and it is advisable to book your ticket well in advance. This can be done at the various ticket offices located in travel agencies, but what we strongly recommend is to get in touch with a professional agency, to get all you need in one simple stop. That’s what Traghetti Croazia, can do for you! General information’s, timetables, tickets, travel assistance and much more, to help you booking with ease your ferry tickets from Ancona, Venezia end Pescara ports. Traghetti Croazia Agency is now open 24/24 and this will speed up and simplify the whole process for you.
Roberto Gardenti is a travel enthusiast and has to travel frequently to places like Croatia, Corsica and other popular tourist destinations. To find out more about what he suggested here regarding ferries to Croatia please visit <a href="http://www.traghetti-croazia.it">Traghetti Croazia</a> at <a href="www.traghetti-croazia.it">www.traghetti-croazia.it</a>
A Cruise Vacation That Can Include Airline Reservations
An air-sea cruise is when your cruise vacation has been booked with airline reservations to get you to the ship s port and back home again. The cruise line buys its tickets in bulk from the airlines. They find out where you are coming from for your cruise travel and book you passage from a nearby airport to one close to the cruise ship’s home port. Each cruise line has its own policy on how they deal with the sale of airline tickets, so here are some cruise tips in that area.
What is the cost of the tickets if I book them with my cruise?
The amount will be quoted when you book and will be shown on your bill.
If I need to cancel, are the refund policies different for the plane tickets than for the cruise?
No, as long as you cancel before the penalty phase begins.
Is there a service fee charged to have the Cruise Line issue my Airline reservations?
Only if you use their air deviations plan. The fee is around $50.00 each.
Do I have any choice in which Airline is used?
Yes, if you use there air deviation plan.
Can I get credit for my frequent flyer mileage if the cruise lines books my airline reservations?
No. You can use your frequent flyers if you book on your own.
Can I fly nonstop or have any control over the route that is taken, or do I just get what ever they find?
Here again, use the air deviation plan.
How do I get from the Airport to the ship s pier?
If you have booked an air/sea cruise vacation the cruise lines will supply you with a voucher for a shuttle bus. If you booked your own airline reservations it will be up to you to get to the port.
Is there a shuttle service available from the airport where you ll be arriving? Is there a charge for this service or is it included? Is the service included if you don t book your flight through the Cruise Line?
If you book your flights through the cruise lines, there will be a shuttle and you
use your transfer.
How and when do I meet up with Cruise Line personnel?
They will be standing in the baggage claim area and will hold a sign with the name of the ship. They will direct you to the shuttle.
How is my luggage handled, do I have to pick it up at the airport or is it automatically sent to the ship?
You will have to pick it up at the airport and then the shuttle will take it to the ship with you.
What accommodations, if any, are made if the Airline they use causes me to miss the ship?
If you have booked with the cruise lines they will accommodate you by getting a hotel room for the night and a flight to the next port.
There are many advantages to booking an air-sea package for your cruise travel. The cruise line takes care of the airline reservation. Since cruise lines buy in bulk and usually provide a discount package rate, the ticket price is generally lower than what can be found in the general market. The transfer of luggage is easier, and a free shuttle will take you from the airport to the docks for your cruise vacation.
The cruise line will have your flight information and will be able to track your flight in case of a delay. Others on the cruise might be on the same flight and they might just hold the ship waiting for you to board. The biggest advantage is that if anything goes wrong to delay you, the cruise line will generally become more involved in getting you to the ship.
There, of course, are disadvantages as well to booking an air-sea package. You might be able to find a better deal on your own, or you may have to fly an airline you don t like. You will not get credit for frequent flyer miles by going through the cruise line, and you might not be able to fly non-stop. Finally, you might end up flying a longer route than you d pick for yourself.
You could book your own airline tickets, but only do so if you can get a better deal. The strongest consideration should be how confident you are in being able to make it to the ship for your cruise vacation on your own. If you are already flying in a few days early, know you ll be there on time and you can save over the air-sea on plane tickets and shuttle costs, then you might just consider going it alone. But, remember you are going it alone. In many cruise reviews it is recommended that you book your airline reservation with the cruise line.
The cruise lines will be more likely to make accommodations and work with the airline if their booking didn t get you to the ship on time. They will be better able to track your late flight and might even delay the ship if they know you ll only be slightly late. There have been many cruise vacations that have delayed the departure from port especially if there is a large group of cruise travelers on a late plane.
Depending on the circumstances, they might even rebate some of your cruise or give you a discount toward your next cruise vacation with them. However, the airlines are independent contractors. Most cruise conditions of carriage state that since the airlines are independent contractors the cruise line makes no warranty and assumes no responsibility for any failure or delay in their contractor s services. This is another reason to purchase a strong trip insurance package.
When you book your own airline tickets for your cruise vacation, if the route you picked to make it to the ship fails, you are on your own. Don t risk missing your cruise travel over a few frequent flyer miles. No matter how you get to your cruise vacation, try to avoid this situation by booking a flight that leaves you plenty of time to get you to and from the pier to the airport. It is recommended that your go on the internet and read the many cruise reviews on this subject.
Happy Cruising!
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
