Royal Holiday

A true highlight of countless cruisers’ Western Caribbean vacations is a visit to one of the Yucatan Peninsula’s majestic Mayan ruins. There are hundreds of significant archeological sites throughout the region, and more than 4,000 smaller sites. Fortunately, some of the best Mayan ruins lie just a short distance from several of the Western Caribbean’s most visited cruise ports, thus making shore excursions to these haunting and historic sites as easy as chatting with a booking agent. Read on to learn about just a few of the sites cruisers enjoy visiting.

Port of Call – Cozumel

Several Mayan ruins grace the Mexican coast near the popular island destination of Cozumel. The most famous complex of ruins is Chichen Itza. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this large, well-developed site offers some of the most iconic views of Mayan temples anywhere in the region. The ancient city of Coba is nestled deep in the jungle, and its great temple— the tallest in Yucatan at nearly 140 feet high—offers amazing panoramic views of neighboring buildings peeking above the treetops. An ancient coastal site, Tulum, sits right on the beach, thereby allowing visitors to take a dip in the turquoise waters after exploring the ruins.

Port of Call – Costa Maya

Mysterious Cacchoben is a pleasant, hour-long bus ride from the port of Costa Maya, Mexico. These ruins are relatively undeveloped, so visitors to the site get a glimpse of how the temple buildings appeared when they were discovered: overgrown with lush vegetation and surrounded by jungle wildlife.

Port of Call – Belize City

The country of Belize also hosts a number of famous Mayan archeological sites. Lamanai is one of the few ancient cities in the region that has retained its original Mayan name, which means “submerged crocodile.” Its largest structures have been restored, though countless others remain hidden in the surrounding jungle foliage. A relatively small site, Altun Ha is very well developed and convenient to Belize City. The site is especially notable for a beautiful Sun God head carved of jade.

In recent years, several cruise lines have put significant effort into building new vessels, and upgrading existing ones—a trend that looks set to continue for the next several years. However, rather than just creating more and bigger ships, all this construction is geared toward building better ships. Cruise lines are installing an amazing array of cutting-edge technologies to make passengers’ vacations easier and more fun.

Keeping in Touch

Cruisers commonly complain that onboard internet and cell phone use is painfully slow and expensive. Fortunately, several cruise lines are offering innovative new ways to let their passengers communicate with loved ones back home. MTN Communications’ Connect@Sea program—first implemented by Disney Cruise Line this year—changes the way companies charge for internet access. Instead of the standard, per-minute, time-based system, the new allotment scheme uses a cheaper, more efficient, data-based, per-megabyte system. Along similar lines, both Princess and Royal Caribbean are significantly improving their internet offerings, through partnerships that will both speed up connections while reducing passenger costs.

Hi-Tech Customer Service

While internet access is important for customers, it’s not the only item that the industry is changing to improve the cruise experience. For example, Royal Caribbean’s brand-new ship, Quantum of the Seas, offers a range of technology-enhanced services, including an enhanced computerized check-in system that will streamline boarding and luggage handling. The company has also designed new apps that enable families and friends on the same ship to stay in touch through the day and coordinate their activities. In addition, Royal Caribbean is distributing tablet computers to crew members throughout its fleet to improve customer service. It is even adding a novel robot bartender to the mix!

Because passengers share their cruise experiences through social media, companies have a clear interest in providing their passengers with affordable communications and tech-enhanced services. As long as cruisers continue to enjoy and promote the cruise industry, cruise lines will strive to provide latest technologies to keep them connected and happy.

With summer drawing to a close, vacation time is over for most people, and many cruisers are heading back to work and school. For those who can spare the time, though, autumn presents plenty of excellent reasons to cruise.

Ever Take a Long Cruise?

In the cruise industry, fall is a popular time for major repositioning cruises, when companies move ships to new homeports. These one-way cruises tend to be fairly long—often two weeks or more—but also cheaper per day than during high season. However, because these voyages are one way, cruisers will need to arrange travel to and from each end of the trip. For a trans-oceanic voyage, that can mean a hefty expense—or it can be a perfect excuse to spend a few months on another continent until a repositioning cruise in the other direction comes along.

Fall Trees and Bright Leaves

In North America, many people take a driving tour of the northeast to view the gorgeous fall foliage. Cruisers can be “leaf peepers” too, with unique sea perspectives. This time of year, many cruise ships sail the eastern coast of the US and Canada, stopping in New England and other choice ports to experience the flaming autumn colors and fun fall festivals.

Autumn Holidays

Some years, cruising families will opt to spend a fall holiday on board a cruise ship. The cruise lines work hard to provide a festive atmosphere, with all the right trappings: decorations, music, and food. Many ships offer cruisers a chance to dress up at Halloween parties. In addition, practically all ships serve a traditional Thanksgiving dinner on the big day—and you don’t have to wash a single dish afterward!

Almost everyone who has taken a cruise with an Eastern Caribbean itinerary has explored the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). The vast majority of these port calls are at the island of St. Thomas, one of the most-visited cruise ports in the world. However, even long-time cruisers might be surprised to discover just how much there is to do and see in the USVI when you wander a bit further afield.

St. Thomas

The pretty island town of Charlotte Amalie is easily one of the top ports of call in the world. With its strong Dutch influence and extremely well-developed infrastructure, there really is something here for anyone. The island’s extremely favorable duty-free shopping, famous Magens Bay Beach, and countless other attractions also mean that there is a constant stream of cruise ships. In fact, on some days as many as six ships can be harbored there—which means more than 20,000 tourists on an island with only around 50,000 residents!

Water Island

Located in the main harbor of St. Thomas, this is sometimes considered “the fourth Virgin Island.” No cruise ships port here, but a ferry makes it easy enough to enjoy a day on this laid-back little island’s quiet beaches.

St. John

Only a few cruise ships make port calls to St. John, and when they do, they remain at anchorage well offshore. That’s just as well, because the big draw to St. John is its pristine wilderness. The island is dominated by the Virgin Islands National Park, which is laced with trails connecting beautiful hilltop views, historical sites, and secluded beaches. Cruz Bay, the only real town on the island, offers plenty of amenities, as well as local handicrafts, which make perfect souvenirs.

St. Croix

The biggest island of the bunch, St. Croix is located a bit off the main ship thoroughfare. As a result, cruise ships only rarely stop here. For this reason, the island has fewer tourist-oriented amenities than St. Thomas does. However, it still sports many unique attractions, including excellent diving and restaurants, several historic sights, rum distillery tours, and countless cultural offerings—including famous beer-drinking pigs!

One of the most important events in maritime history was remembered this year at a gala marking the 100th anniversary of the opening of the Panama Canal.

A grand ceremony at the Canal’s Miraflores lock commemorated the passing of the steamer Ancón through the Panama Canal on August 15, 1914. Kicking off the centenary celebration, the Greek vessel Galini led the several dozen ships that passed through the busy canal during the first day of the canal’s second century. Dignitaries and guests enjoyed a 13-foot-long chocolate cake shaped to resemble the complex lock system, while performers of all sorts provided entertainment, including traditional Panamanian dances and a theatrical production depicting the waterway’s turbulent history.

Several other events have taken place throughout Panama to recognize the influential canal’s 100th birthday. A number of commemorative books were published, and a traveling interactive exhibit entitled “Centennial Experience of the Canal” visited nine provinces in the country. The three-day Ocean to Ocean race saw competitors paddle their way through the 49-mile canal from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific. Even a new, limited-edition fragrance was released: “Canal,” the first-ever Panamanian brand of perfume, is said to evoke the entrepreneurial character of the canal’s long history.

The importance of the Panama Canal cannot be overstated. A true marvel of engineering at the time it was built, it dramatically decreased the time, fuel, and risk required for ships to take cargo and passengers between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. As other canals have opened elsewhere in the world over the last century, the Panama Canal’s influence has declined somewhat. Nonetheless, roughly five percent of the world’s maritime trade still passes through it, and that number is set to grow in coming decades as Panama works to add a new set of modernized locks. The expansion will triple the waterway’s capacity, and allow super-sized “Post-Panamax” ships to use the Panama Canal. The expansion will ensure that the historic waterway continues to remain relevant throughout the 21st century.

Over the last few years, the number of cruise ships serving the Caribbean has steadily grown. In 2011, 212 ships sailed the region, whereas today there are 235. That number is likely to rise again for the 2015 cruising season, as four more ships are scheduled to cruise Caribbean itineraries.

The Caribbean has long been an incredibly popular cruise destination—number one in the world, in fact! This is largely because of its proximity to the huge North American market, as well as its year-round itineraries. Having such a large selection of ships and specific itineraries to choose from has kept prices down for passengers. Of course, this is fantastic news for cruisers seeking bargains. There are a great number of cruises currently available for less than $100 per night on many cruise lines throughout the Caribbean.

On the other hand, low prices pose special challenges for the companies that provide them. According to Cruise Critic, competing cruise lines universally agree that low rates are an unfortunate part of doing business in the Caribbean, especially during low season. Cruise companies are attempting to balance out pricing by situating ships to more effectively serve markets farther from the southeastern US ports in Florida. Several vessels will be relocated to homeports in Texas and California so that more cruise enthusiasts in the American West and Midwest can enjoy an ocean vacation without buying an expensive flight to get there. Other ships will be moved even farther in order to service growing markets in Asia.

Despite industry corrections, however, the Caribbean will remain an extremely popular destination for the foreseeable future—and that means it will stay an affordable cruise option for years to come.

In mid-August, the world’s newest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean International’s (RCI) acclaimed Quantum of the Seas, entered the water for the first time. The brand-new liner left the German shipyard Meyer Werft to start testing of critical systems, including thrusters and stabilizers. Until she finally arrives in the North Atlantic in mid-September, Quantum will undergo a variety of trials to verify her seaworthiness.

She is scheduled to sail to Southampton, England, on October 31, and then set off for Cape Bayonne, New Jersey. Although her first few cruises will be in North America, Quantum will relocate to Shanghai in May 2015 to serve the booming cruise market in Asia.

With the room for 4,180 passengers, Quantum is third-largest cruise ship in the world after her big sisters, RCI’s Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. As the first of her class, Quantum of the Seas brings several new features to cruising. The Seaplex—which will include a roller rink, carnival-style rides, and a circus school—will be the most expansive outdoor sport and entertainment facility on the high seas. There ship will also have a skydiving simulator and a special elevated capsule called North Star, which will rise 30 stories above the waves to offer incredible, 360-degree panoramic views.

Quantum also introduces a new, more flexible form of dining experience. No longer constrained by main dining rooms and set dining times, guests will be able to enjoy meals on their own schedule at 18 different restaurants. A handful of new cabin categories are also available, with staterooms that are nearly 10 percent larger on average than those on Oasis-class ships. Of course, a slate of new shopping outlets, shows, and venues will be added to the marquee, as well.

RCI has announced plans to launch two more Quantum-class vessels in coming years. Anthem of the Seas will be delivered in spring of next year, while a third yet unnamed sister ship will sail sometime in mid-2016.

While the Caribbean is the most popular destination for American cruisers, many of the best beach destinations in North America actually lie on the west coast of Mexico. This vast stretch of gorgeous oceanside landscape is known as the Mexican Riviera.

The Mexican Riviera extends hundreds of miles, from Baja in the north to Salina Cruz near the southern end of Mexico. Ports of call here offer a huge variety of things to do and see, including scuba and snorkeling, wineries, ecotours, beach resorts, historic sites, craft bazaars, and of course, fabulous Mexican food and music!

There are nearly two dozen exciting and unique cities scattered along the Mexican Riviera. Read on to learn about a few of the most popular stops for cruisers.

Ensenada

Located just 70 miles south of the U.S. border, Ensenada is the northernmost port on the Mexican Riviera. Its picturesque downtown boasts many fantastic bars, restaurants, and clubs, as well as countless shops and vendors displaying souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Cabo San Lucas

At the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is the site of the stately Land’s End rock formation, which separates the Pacific from the narrow Sea of Cortez. The area has earned acclaim for its pristine white beaches, choice fishing, and excellent scuba diving, as well as its austere desert landscapes.

Puerto Vallarta

Resting at the foot of the towering Sierra Madre mountains, Puerto Vallarta is a classic Mexican city. The majestic cathedral and the city’s old town, with its red tiles and cobblestones, whisks visitors back into Mexico’s storied past. The surrounding mountain forests attract tourists for the area’s many hiking and ecotour opportunities, while the cosmopolitan city itself offers fantastic restaurants, galleries, and nightlife.

Acapulco

Exciting Acapulco draws tourists for its beautiful ocean scenery, fearless cliff divers, and sizzling nightlife. For decades, this city was a favorite hangout for Hollywood elites. Today, Acapulco still offers up sumptuous resorts, breath-taking views, and world-class restaurants.

Many cruisers’ favorite shore excursions involve “zip-lining,” a heart-pounding activity that enables adventurous cruisers of all ages to zoom through the air at adrenaline-pumping speeds. Often combined with other outdoor activities, zip-lining is a truly unforgettable thrill!

What Is Zip-Lining?

Very simply, a zip-line is a pulley that rides along a steel cable that is mounted higher at one end than the other. The zip-liner is harnessed to the pulley and then allowed to zoom down the cable, sometimes alone and sometimes with a guide, depending upon the specific excursion.

Zip-lining is often part of a “canopy tour,” which might include a number of zip-lines, bridges, ladders, and rappelling ropes connecting several tree-top platforms in a jungle or forest setting.

Is Zip-Lining Safe?

Yes. Reputable zip-line operators throughout the world are certified by the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT), the largest American standards organization for evaluating recreational courses. Zip-line guides are professionals, and zip-line operators provide well-maintained safety equipment and thorough training to all their guests.

A wise cruiser will research the zip-line operator before leaving for his or her vacation. Plenty of information is available at every good operator’s website, and one can find helpful reviews from previous customers through sites like TripAdvisor and CruiseCritic.

What Should I Expect During My Zip-Line Experience?

Zip-lining is not for the faint-of-heart, and most excursions require at least a moderate level of fitness. An excursion usually begins with a hike or climb to the top of the course or tour, followed by a briefing on safety and training in the use of the equipment. There are usually also one or two short zip-line flights so those with second thoughts can excuse themselves.

After that, adventurous cruisers get to experience the rush of the wind as they soar high above the ground with the birds! They will usually zip between several platforms, making their way their way lower and lower, often learning about the local plants and wildlife at the same time. At the end of it all, snacks, refreshing drinks, and exciting conversation are almost always available.

Where Can I Try Zip-Lining?

Most cruise line itineraries based out of North America stop in at least one port that offers a zip-line shore excursion. These kinds of adventure tours are especially popular in locales with jungle terrain, such as Cozumel, Puerto Rico, Roatan, and many Caribbean islands. Alaska cruises also typically offer opportunities for zip-lining through lush Pacific mountain forests. The largest cruise ships—Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class vessels—are so big

Earlier this summer, Norwegian Cruise Lines announced an ambitious, fleet-wide upgrade program called “Norwegian NEXT.” The initiative aims to enhance every ship in the fleet with new entertainment choices and cutting-edge technologies.

Many of Norwegian’s ships have already undergone refurbishing. Currently, the Norwegian Gem is in dry dock undergoing its NEXT makeover. The Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Star will receive their upgrades next year.

Dining

In its July announcement, Norwegian outlined many of the changes coming to its dining offerings. Dinner menus will be specially tailored based on the itinerary of each ship, thereby giving each ship’s meal options a regional flair. Likewise, seafood choices will be significantly expanded, while main dining room lunch menus will also be re-imagined.

Foodies will also be delighted by the new chef recommendations program. The new menus will feature several starter and entree suggestions, along with expertly selected wine pairings.

Entertainment

Norwegian’s fleet-wide upgrade will bring Nickelodeon-themed activities to every ship in the fleet. Cruising kids will enjoy games, eating options, shows, and other activities based on Nickelodeon’s beloved characters and game shows.

For grown-ups, Norwegian’s expanded slate of entertainment options includes the H2Glow club party—currently only offered on the Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway—on every boat. In addition, Norwegian will add several new shows to every ship’s already exciting lineup.

Technology

Norwegian plans to upgrade onboard Wi-Fi throughout the fleet in the coming year, while Norwegian’s convenient iConcierge app will allow passengers to talk and text everywhere on each ship.

Ships will also undergo an environmental overhaul. To reduce polluting emissions and save fuel, select ships will get brand-new exhaust scrubbers and special hull treatments.