If you have never been on a cruise ship before there are some things you should be aware of before you make your booking. Of course, personal choice comes into everything, but here are a few pointers to hopefully make your first cruise a good one.
Check Out The Ship
Of course, you need to make sure you are happy with the shipping line you are booking with but you also need to check out the ship. Some of the older ships do not have so many facilities as the newer ones. This might not be a problem if it is relaxation you are after. However, if you want to be able to have lots of activities while aboard, you should probably opt for one of the later ones.
Most cruise lines refurbish their ships every 5 years or so. It is worth checking if this had been done to the ship you are considering, as they may have added more facilities at the same time.
Be Aware Of The Layout Before Booking Your Cabin
Cabins on ships are a bit like the rooms in hotels. The bigger they are and the better position they are in, the more they will cost you. The ones in the center of the ship, with no external views, are usually the cheapest but they also happen to be the best if you are likely to suffer from seasickness. It is in these cabins that any rocking caused by a rough sea is less felt.
If you are on any of the lower decks you could find yourself beneath a dance floor or the swimming pool. This can be good as it means you will not have to go far to reach them, but you have to be prepared for the noise they will create.
If you have the funds, a cabin with a private balcony can be ideal. Then you get to see all the views in the peace and quiet of your own room.
Whatever cabin you choose, check for any problems as soon as you get there. If there is a broken tap or no showerhead, tell a member of the crew straightaway. These things should be put right before the passengers board, and you do not want to be blamed for the damage. [Read more…] about First Time Cruising Tips!
All Rounders: the Best Cruises for the Whole Family!
When going on a holiday with different generations of your family it can be hard to find a one size fits all destination. Young children want exciting thrills and spills, teenagers love activities and opportunities to escape their parents by making new friends, parents want a little bit of relaxation time and the older generation a bit of culture seeking. The best way to accommodate all of these different interests is with a family friendly cruise from the Bolsover Cruise Club. Here are the best cruise trips for multigenerational holidays:
The Norwegian Cruise Line
Cruising the Med with the Norwegian Cruise Line is ideal for a multi-generational holiday. With plenty of cultural ports and interesting cities on the agenda, the range of different types of stops includes cool cities like Barcelona to pretty Greek Islands and plenty of days at sea for sunbathing and making friends on deck. From evening magic shows to fine dining opportunities, the amount of variety on board means there is something that all different generations will enjoy plus plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy together.
Carnival Cruises
A cruise ship that’s ideal for those families who’ve had to drag the teenagers along with them. Carnival cruises offers night time events for 15-17 year olds and teenagers only excursions so you can spend some time apart whilst on holiday, then it will be so much more fun meeting up again to catch up on what you’ve both been up to. This gives adults some much welcomed relaxation time to do some sunbathing or go visit a historical museum without the ‘I’m bored’ chorus haunting their holiday.
Disney Cruises
Although Disney cruises are specifically geared up for children, this makes them ideal for families as there’s plenty of time for adults to catch a break and enjoy themselves too. The entertainment on an evening is of a really high standard and ideal for all the family to enjoy together and the amount of different day time activities to choose from means that there are options for all the family to do something with their day which they enjoy.
Generally, use your common sense when looking for a cruise which will appeal to all the generations. Luxury cruising tends to cater more towards adults and couples whereas some liners calling at the more cultural hot spots tend to be a little boring for children, so it’s all about checking out the facilities on board and making sure that there is something for everyone!
Check out http://www.bolsovercruiseclub.com/