Why a cruise may not be suitable for you: expert advice for those planning to book
Before embarking on an exciting cruise ship journey, many people face a difficult choice - which ship to choose from the many options? If you have never been on a cruise, it will be challenging to decide, especially if you do not know what to expect from such a vacation.
Travel expert Nicky Kelvin has attempted to highlight three key questions that are very important before booking. He told Mirror how to make the right choice and find the perfect cruise for your vacation.
Before confirming your booking, you should consider the details. According to Nicky, a cruise is not for everyone, but there are many reasons why you might not like it.
Who is suitable for a cruise
Some travelers like to sail where the wind takes them, but others prefer a planned route. For such tourists, a cruise ship is the best option.
"You will have some flexibility, but the overall plan of your trip is pre-planned and carved in stone, such as the destinations you will visit, when and how long you will be in each port," the expert clarifies.
In his opinion, this is a huge advantage, as the cruise line has done all the hard work of finding the perfect multi-day vacation. Additionally, it is a great option for those who want or need to know how much their vacation will cost long before it starts.
"A cruise line offers you a complete travel package, including accommodations, food, and entertainment, and takes you to new places to explore almost every day. On some cruises—especially river cruises and so-called expedition cruises (traveling to very remote places on small, hardy ships)—the lines will even organize all your daily tours in advance," says Nicky.
Comparing a cruise and all-inclusive
The cruise price includes not only accommodation and meals but also a wide range of entertainment. If you're traveling with your family, don't worry about the cost of kids' clubs—many cruise lines provide them for free throughout the day.
However, be careful: not all costs are covered. On ships, additional costs may be incurred for drinks with meals, dinners in high-end restaurants, shore excursions, and automatic gratuities. Our experts advise you to be vigilant and warn you about possible additional costs that may appear on your account before the end of the trip.
But most companies offer special packages that include gratuities and drinks, which can be included in the price when booking. This way, you can enjoy your cruise knowing that many of the "extras" are already included in the total cost of your adventure. Hurry up, and you can find great package deals even from mass-market lines, making your cruise much more affordable and enjoyable.
Who will enjoy group excursions
Cruises provide a unique opportunity to meet new people and explore amazing places in the company of a group. However, for those who prefer unusual adventures alone, cruises may seem like a less ideal vacation option.
The expert emphasizes that the level of group feeling on a cruise depends on the choice of the ship and the organization of port activities. On river cruises and expedition trips, as a rule, there is more freedom for relaxation and exploration.
On ocean cruises, despite the greater flexibility, excursions are usually organized in groups of up to 40 people. At the same time, on traditional ocean ships, you have the opportunity to organize private tours for yourself and your family or go exploring the ports on your own. But sometimes, you have to look for a travel service provider.
And finally: don't be late for your cruise ship after the tour; otherwise, you risk missing your cruise.
