Destination Tips

One of Royal Holiday cruise line affiliates, MSC Cruises, recently announced that they will be adding two advanced new ships to their growing fleet. On March 20, representatives from MSC signed a letter of intent with shipbuilder STX France to construct the first of an entirely new class of cruise ships featuring dramatic innovations in accommodations and technology.

Still to be named, these next-generation ships will be the largest ever contracted by a European company, and will dwarf even the immense Fantasia-class liners that currently head MSC’s fleet. They will also be the second-largest cruise ships in the world in terms of passenger capacity, with accommodations for 5,700 cruisers and over 1,500 crewmembers. Despite their great size—about 1,025 feet from bow to stern—the ships’ flexible design will allow them to visit nearly any port in the world.

MSC representatives said the ships will feature a range of upgraded options for dining and entertainment, including an amusement park/aqua park complex, expanded theater space, and a vast two-deck promenade. Cabin spaces will also be redesigned, including special accommodations for families. The luxurious MSC Yacht Club will be extended, as well, to include new private lounge and dining spaces, expansive duplex suites, and an exclusive solarium.

In addition to the many new features benefiting MSC passengers, the ships will also take advantage of advanced engineering for improved fuel efficiency and decreased ecological impact. The design incorporates cutting-edge technologies into the hull, propulsion, and exhaust systems. With these pollutant-reducing technologies in place, the new vessels will become flagships for environmental responsibility.

Construction of the two ships will begin in 2015, with delivery currently scheduled for 2017 and 2019. While the company has not yet announced what itineraries the vessels will sail, industry watchers have speculated that one will operate in the Mediterranean and the other in North America.

Wherever MSC’s newest ships end up going, passengers will be certain to enjoy all the memorable fun and relaxation that they have to offer.

The first order of business on most any cruise is fun, whether it’s a crazy waterslide, a sophisticated jazz lounge, or any of the hundreds of other activities available on today’s cruise ships.

Beyond the relaxation and entertainment, however, a cruise is also special because it can bring passengers closer to the natural wonders of the ocean world. When considering a cruise vacation, it is helpful to reflect on how the cruise industry takes measures to protect the marine and coastal environments upon which it relies.

Shipboard Programs

Virtually all cruise lines have in place programs aimed at boosting energy efficiency and reducing waste. Most ships recycle metals, cooking oil, plastics, electronics, paper, and countless other materials. They also increasingly utilize energy-efficient lighting and appliances, and participate in electricity and disposal programs in cooperation with port cities to ensure a minimal ecological impact.

Eco-Excursions

Interested cruisers can usually arrange an enlightening tour in destination ports. Whether it’s watching orcas in Alaska, snorkeling a reef off the Yucatan peninsula, or zip-lining with monkeys in South America, there are ample opportunities to experience nature close up, in informative and eco-friendly ways.

Passenger Learning

Many ships provide informative videos, seminars, literature, or other programs for cruisers interested in environmental issues. Some cruise ships also offer opportunities for vacationers to contribute to select environmental causes through ship purchases or direct-giving programs.

Ship Technology

The cruise industry has long worked with ship builders to create hull and propeller designs that improve engine efficiency. Even the coatings on modern hulls are specially engineered for smoother water flow and reduced fuel usage.

In the last year, several cruise lines have announced massive investments in pollution-fighting scrubber technologies. Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruises—leading a partnership with other lines—are both initiating multi-million-dollar upgrades to exhaust systems on dozens of ships over the next two years.

With so many modern facilities and choices for fun and relaxation, there are countless options for a memorable vacation on board today’s cruise ships. One of the most rewarding experiences any cruiser can enjoy, however, is the simple, natural beauty of a whale breaching the waves or a pod of dolphins racing through the water.

Where to Go

Royal Holiday’s affiliated cruise lines sail in excellent whale-watching waters. People often spot humpback whales and grey whales, as well as distinctive black-and-white orcas, off the coast of the eastern Pacific, between Vancouver and ports in Alaska. The eastern Caribbean also is home to a variety of notable species, including beaked whales, humpback whales, and sperm whales. Off the eastern coast of South America, people frequently sight Humpbacks.

The warm waters of the Caribbean are also especially suitable for those who’d like to watch dolphins– or even swim with them. Many ports of call throughout the region offer dolphin experiences.

How to Get the Best Viewing

Once settled in their cabin, cruisers can simply sit back and watch for whales in the distance from the comfort of a deck chair or stateroom balcony. However, for a more intense and intimate whale-watching experience, passengers can arrange a shore excursion.

Whale-watching tours, conducted by experienced boat captains and knowledgeable marine biologists, are available through any cruise line’s booking service. Some cruisers opt to contact a whale-watching tour operator directly and make reservations themselves.

Before making a tour reservation, it is important to check reviews of the excursion or operator. Be sure to understand boat accommodations and the knowledge and qualifications of the staff before paying for a tour. This helps avoid a potentially unpleasant—and costly—excursion experience.

What to Take

When setting out on a whale-watching tour, cruisers need to be prepared. Above all, one should dress for the weather. In the Caribbean, it is likely to be hot but also rainy, so a sun-hat and light raincoat make sense. In Alaska, the air is chilly and the spray is damp, so a warm hat, a fleece top, and raincoat are good choices.

On any whale-watching adventure, binoculars (with a strap) will bring distant action a lot closer. Additionally, don’t forget to pack a camera to record the breathtaking experience.

On March 12, Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) announced that they would be adding a new ship, the Norwegian Escape, to their award-winning fleet in October 2015. NCL has already started construction, cutting the first steel for the new vessel at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany. As of the end of March, NCL has begun accepting bookings on the new ship.

Able to carry 4,200 passengers, the Escape will be the largest in NCL’s fleet, with a capacity even greater than her massive sister ships, the Breakaway and the Getaway. The new ship will be based in Miami, Florida, and will service an eastern Caribbean itinerary that includes island ports of call at Nassau, St. Thomas, and Tortola.

Reflecting the energy and natural beauty of her Miami home port and the tropical route she will sail, the Escape will be decorated with hull art by noted Miami artist and conservationist, Guy Harvey. The design is said to feature a graceful sailfish, among a host of other sea wildlife and reef fish. This aquatic conservation motif will extend into the ship itself, as well. Passengers will be able to purchase artwork and other products in support of the Caribbean Challenge Initiative, a program aimed at preserving the delicate marine environment of the Caribbean Sea.

Of course, the Escape will also boast plenty of memorable vacation fun. NCL representatives have hinted that the ship will feature new entertainment options as well as the innovative programs and facilities available on her sister ships.

In addition to news of the Escape, NCL also made a number of other announcements in March. Over the coming year, the cruise line will reposition several ships to new itineraries in Europe and North and South America. The cruise company also has a second ship on order, the Norwegian Bliss, which will sail in spring 2017.

With spring break just a week or two away and summer on the horizon, many longtime cruisers are already planning a relaxing vacation on the waves. Less experienced vacationers may be asking themselves: exactly when is the best time for a cruise?

The answer depends upon the individual and where they want to go. Most people’s work schedules and kids’ school breaks limit vacation time. Additionally, local weather also impacts cruise season for different destinations. The Caribbean, for example, sees its slowest times during hurricane season, while Alaska shuts down during the frigid winter months.

High-Season Cruising

For the most part, the high season for cruising in North America and Europe is the summer, when the days are long, the sunshine is bright, and children are out of school. Most regions also see a high season during the winter holidays, when people take time off for Christmas. In addition, many Caribbean destinations generally see a flurry of activity in March when college students take their spring break.

Cruising during high season offers many advantages. During these times, ports of call generally offer the widest variety of exciting excursions. Restaurants and museums that cater to tourists are guaranteed to be open, and shops will have the greatest selection.

However, high-season cruising has two big disadvantages: the crowds and the prices. Cruise destinations are overrun with travelers, thus resulting in dense throngs of tourists and long lines. Additionally, because of the strong demand for products and services, prices tend to be higher in the high season. Everything from the cost of dining and souvenirs in ports of call to the price of travel to and from the port of embarkation is more expensive.

Low-Season Cruising

Cruisers with more flexibility in their travel schedules may find traveling during the low season a worthwhile option. During these times, there are not as many tourists and destination ports are generally more relaxed. Often—but not always—prices for transportation, food, and gifts, are somewhat lower. Many cruisers have found excellent deals by booking during the off-peak season.

On the other hand, low-season cruisers are more likely to encounter poor weather. In northern regions, winter can be uncomfortably cold. Travelers visiting southern islands and beach destinations will experience these locals’ rainy season. Moreover, many amenities, such as sightseeing venues, restaurants, excursions, and museums, often shut down when the hordes of high-season tourists leave.

Whether a vacationer chooses an ocean voyage during the high season or low season, there are plenty of options for a fun and fascinating cruise experience somewhere in the world any time of year.

As the ship pulls away from the dock, every cruiser is eagerly looking forward to relaxing in the sun, eating fine cuisine, exploring exotic lands, and making memories. Before planning a trip, though, experienced travelers must do a little extra planning to ensure that the memories they make are good ones – not bad.

The unfortunate truth is that visitors in foreign ports are enticing targets for local criminals. Most crimes experienced by cruise ship passengers on shore excursions are relatively minor property violations such as stealing cameras, purse-snatching, and pickpocketing. More serious crimes are occasionally reported – for example, armed robbery of entire tour groups – but such cases are fortunately rare.

The good news is that there are a few simple things that cruisers can do to minimize the chance that they will become targets for criminals during their on-shore adventures.

Do a little research. Use the Internet to understand the types of crimes in your ports of call. The U.S. State Department website provides extensive information and advisories for tourists. Cruise lines can also point you to valuable information.

Travel with a group. Most criminals go after individuals or very small groups. By sticking with a reputable organized group, you are much less likely to become a victim.

Maintain a low profile. When traveling alone or in a small group, smart vacationers dress and act in a manner in which they do not draw attention. Using a respectfully quiet tone and dressing like the locals will make it more difficult for criminals to pick you out.

Pack wisely. Keep the number of credit cards you have to a minimum, try not to tote a lot of cash, and carry it all in front pockets, if possible. If you must carry a bag, keep it slung in front of you in order to make it harder to cut into or snatch it. Finally, don’t carry important documents such as passports or plane tickets. Carry copies instead. (However, be certain to check the specific destination: Some countries require travelers to keep their passports on them at all times.)

Have fun! The reason for the extra awareness and preparation is to ensure that your vacation abroad is less stressful. Don’t fret. Just relax and enjoy your shore excursion.

With Valentine’s Day come countless plans by couples to spend the special day together doing something truly romantic and memorable. The wide array of special amenities offered on cruises have long made them a favorite choice for lovers young and old to get away from it all. In fact, most cruise lines make it easy to have a romantic getaway any time of year, making ocean voyages a popular choice for couples, even when it’s not Valentine’s Day.

Romantic Cruises

Virtually all cruise lines offer services especially for couples. Cruises are renowned for their fine dining options, and most ships have a range of options for dancing, movies, and other entertainment. For this reason, it’s easy to plan a perfect night out while on board a luxury cruise ship. Many lines offer special amenities such as couples’ massages in the spa, private poolside cabanas, and relaxing adults-only decks far from splashing kids.

Because romantic cruises are so popular, it is important to do a little planning. Certain offerings—like couples’ massages or special occasion packages—tend to sell out early, so book them well in advance. Also, on ships with traditional dining, it may be difficult to reserve a table for two without letting the restaurant know well in advance. Of course, ships also offer fine salon facilities that provide passengers with plenty of opportunities to prepare for a special evening.

For Those Special Occasions

The seductive atmosphere of the ocean air, stars overhead, and exotic beaches make the perfect backdrop for an especially romantic once-in-a-lifetime celebration. For this reason, many cruising couples plan their weddings or honeymoons on the high seas.

Most cruise lines offer special wedding accommodations. For example, Carnival Cruises, which hosts around 2,600 weddings every year, recently announced a revamped range of wedding packages with all the trappings, from intimate ceremonies for just the couple, to huge wedding bashes for dozens of guests.

Many honeymooners opt to sail to an exotic destination after getting married. While not all cruise lines offer special accommodations for newlyweds, it never hurts to mention it. Now and then, honeymooners might find it a little easier to reserve a special table or spa session.

For already married couples who would like to re-commit to each other, most ships provide an opportunity to renew vows. Depending upon the ship, this may be a ceremony performed for several couples at once or it may be special for one couple, so it is important to inquire before sailing.

Whatever the special occasion, cruises offer a host of opportunities for couples to enjoy an unforgettable romantic experience at sea.

Cruising has long been popular with senior passengers who have ample time in retirement to take long journeys across the ocean to discover exotic seaside locales. The concerns of mature cruisers are naturally a bit different than for others, but because they make up such a large fraction of customers, cruise lines typically go out of their way to cater to these most discerning of passengers.

Not content to sit back and relax, many senior cruisers seek a challenge on their vacations. For this reason, they carefully consider a ship’s enrichment programs before booking a cruise. Modern ships offer countless options for dance lessons, academic seminars, culinary exploration, and much more. Of course, ports of call also offer limitless opportunities to experience and learn. Whether on or off the ship, mature travelers can explore many possible routes to intellectual stimulation.

One of the most pressing concerns for older passengers is whether or not a cruise ship has special accommodations for health or mobility limitations. Fortunately, practically all modern cruise ships have top quality medical facilities on board. Increasingly, these have real-time connections to land-based facilities, as well. In addition, every ship offers staterooms, spa and sport facilities, and other considerations that make life easier for those with mobility impairments or other special needs.

Many mature cruisers also find themselves traveling alone. Recent innovations in shipboard accommodations– such as the affordable solo cabins on the Norwegian Epic– have allowed these passengers to enjoy a vacation without breaking the bank. Entertainment and dining venues are also increasingly considerate of those who are traveling alone.

Clearly, for the most mature and sophisticated passengers on the high seas, modern cruising is as comfortable, accessible, and inclusive as ever. How could it be any better?

In late 2013, a study on traveling among seniors was released by a trio of notable organizations: the US Travel Association, the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, and the Global Commission on Aging. Their findings indicated that travel experiences such as cruising have a positive effect on heart health and mental well-being.

Senior cruisers can now feel confident that their elegant ocean voyages not only provide memorable fun, but promote better heath, as well.

Cruisers who sail the Caribbean early in the year often find themselves heading straight into the heart of the wild celebrations of Carnival, complete with elaborate costumes, colorful parades, heavenly feasting, thrumming music, and unrestrained dancing. In most places, people celebrate Carnival in February. For this reason, some cruisers plan their early year trips to enjoy these party days while in their itinerary’s ports of call.

If you cannot cruise in February, though, it is still possible to enjoy of Carnival at other times of year. Many Caribbean islands celebrate Carnival or very similar celebrations in different months. Thus, there is a Carnival-type celebration somewhere in the Caribbean almost every week of the year. This makes it easy for travelers to arrange to be in port during the big party.

Islands that celebrate Carnival during the traditional period in February include such destinations as Curacao, Martinique, Aruba, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad and Tobago. Several other islands schedule their big party season later in the spring. Around the end of March or early April, Jamaica celebrates Bacchanal. St. Thomas and Cayman Islands have their parties toward the end of April or the beginning of May, while Barbuda’s is in June.

Summertime Carnivals are also very popular throughout the Caribbean. July through September sees partying on islands such as Barbados, St. Vincent, Antigua, Belize, St. John, and several others. During autumn, the Carnival season slows down significantly, but picks up again in December and around New Year in places like The Bahamas, St. Croix, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In most of these places, Carnival is the biggest event of the year, with the party usually lasting several
weeks. Therefore, a cruiser actually has a good chance of taking in the local Carnival at least one port of call. In fact, with a little advance planning, a real party devotee can enjoy several Carnivals on a single cruise.