FOR VALUE, VARIETY, & YOUR SATISFACTION, NOTHING ELSE MEASURES UP TO A CRUISE VACATION...

           

Every day, more and  more people are discovering the all-inclusive pleasures of a cruise vacation.  More singles, families, couples, honeymooners, second honeymooners groups of friends are sailing away on the vacation of their lives.   Last year alone, millions of people enjoyed cruise vacations.  When you add it all up, it’s easy to see why. The price of your ticket includes all your meals- and in-between snacks.  All your daytime activities, nighttime parties and entertainment.  Plus, a relaxing voyage to some of the most exciting and exotic places in the world.    You’ll find a cruise ship is a floating resort - with all the things a fine resort has to offer...and more.  You’ll meet new friends- people like yourself–who share the same tests and interests.  And, you can spend your days and nights being as lively - or leisurely - as you like. The hassles of an ordinary vacation are completely eliminated in one neat package.  You don’t have to worry about making dinner or nightclub reservations, running to make connections, packing and unpacking...or expensive surprises at restaurants and nightclubs. You can just lie back and be completely pampered.  Or go non-stop.  Dine like never before.  Enjoy one show after another.  Let your cares float away.     It’s no wonder that more people are taking cruise vacations than ever before.  And it’s no wonder that, once they get a taste of cruising, they come back for more...again and again.  As a matter of fact, cruises have a higher percentage of satisfied customers than another vacation experience. Ask CRUISE ADVENTURES TRAVEL COMPANY!!  Chances are, we’ll recommend a cruise vacation from personal experience.      Suggestion: Take the Advice!!

 

HERE ARE ANSWERS TO SOME OF THE MOST COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CRUISE VACATIONS:

Isn’t cruising expensive?

No!  A cruise is one of the best travel values.  Your fare includes all you meals, your stateroom, daytime activities, nighttime parties and entertainment, plus transportation to some of the most popular ports in the world.  For once, you’ll know what your vacation will end up costing you BEFORE you go.

How long are cruises?

As long, or short, as you want.  CRUISE ADVENTURES TRAVEL COMPANY offers itineraries from three days to  more  than three months!!

How do I book a cruise?

Call CRUISE ADVENTURES TRAVEL COMPANY..  We’ll help you pick the cruise that fits your vacation schedule, tastes and budget, then make all the arrangements to get you from your doorstep to your stateroom.

Are all ships and cruises fairly similar?

Far from it.  CRUISE ADVENTURES TRAVEL COMPANY represents ships from under 200 feet to over 1000 feet.  You can sail with anywhere from fewer than 100 passengers to nearly 3,000.  Experience atmospheres  ranging from casual to formal; classically simple to ultra-deluxe.  You can even choose between traditional propeller driven craft and sailing ships.

What’s an air/sea cruise?

A “fly/cruise” or “air/sea” cruise vacation package includes airfare (at anywhere from free to special reduced rates) along with your cruise ticket.  These money-saving options are available from most major North American cities.  For some cruise lines, transfers are included; for others transfers may be purchased at a minimal cost to get you from the airport to the ship and back.  Your baggage will also be taken care of at the pier.

Can I book at short notice?

CRUISE ADVENTURES TRAVEL COMPANY has special prices on ALL cruises regardless of the time of booking.

Do I need a passport?

 Passengers traveling to and from the United States by air require a passport.  As of  June 2009, the government will require ALL passengers entering the U.S. by air, land, or sea to possess a VALID passport or passport card.  You may find out more information about passport requirements at the State Department Website: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

Are there different classes of service?

Today’s cruise ships are generally “one class”.  Everyone on board can use all of the ship’s facilities.  The price of a stateroom is based only on its size and location.  Regardless of the category you book, you’ll enjoy the same courteous service, menus, activities and entertainment as everyone else on board.

Will I get bored?  Feel confined?

Hardly.  Being at sea gives you a feeling of freedom few places can offer.  There’s plenty of room.  And it will probably take you two or three days just to discover what’s on board.  Plus, you can get the added adventure of exploring new and exciting ports of call.  Cruise ships are like floating resorts, with all the things fine resorts have to offer.  You can be by yourself and like back on a lounge chair, breathe in the sea air, soak up the sun, read good books or watch the ever-changing view.  Or you can join in exercise classes, dance classes, sports contests, and other organized deck activities.  Perhaps you can practice your tennis strokes, drive golf balls, shoot some skeet or basketballs.  You can go for a swim, stretch out in the sauna or work out in the gym.  You can take in a feature movie, listen to a lecture, or play backgammon or bridge.  And, that’s just when you’re onboard! 

What’s there to do in port?

So much, you’ll have a hard time choosing!  You can go off on your own or take a guided tour.  You can search ancient ruins or for shopping bargains.  Ride a raft over river rapids, a bicycle down the side of a 10,000 foot volcano, or a horse across miles of hills and beaches.  Climb a waterfall or a pyramid.  See the birthplace of civilization or steel drum bands.  Follow the footsteps of history or the wake of a water-skiing boat. If there’s still time (and you aren’t ready to rest yet) enjoy a folkloric show.  Play golf or tennis.  Eat native foods.  Learn how to windsurf.  Sun and swim at some of the world’s best beaches.  Catch a record marlin.  Sail, snorkel, or go scuba diving.  Go to a nightclub or glittering casino.  Take a cable car to the top of a mountain.  Explore catacombs.  In short, a cruise is the easiest way to see new places and do all the things you dreamed of.

Do I have to participate in the activities?

On a cruise ship you do what YOU want to do.  You can do everything...or lie back and do absolutely nothing.  It’s YOUR vacation.

Would our kids enjoy cruising?

If your children enjoy swimming, sports, games, movies and the adventure of seeing new and exotic places, they’ll love cruising.  You’ll find that kids adapt to shipboard life with ease, yet you won’t wonder where they are and what they are up to every minute, because the cruise staff will help keep them busy and entertained.  During school holidays, most cruise lines offer a wealth of supervised children’s programs...and some offer children’s programs year-round.  Best of all, children generally travel at reduced rates.

What’s there to do at night?

At night, life aboard a cruise ship really comes alive.  There’s dancing, live entertainment in the night clubs, discos, and lounges.  Feature films. And parties will all your new friends.  Most ships even have casinos.  There are also many special events such as the Captain’s Cocktail Party, Passenger’s Talent Show, Midnight Buffets (for one last bite before bed) or enjoy 24 hour dining aboard some cruiselines. And the night can go on as long as you want.   Even until the spectacle of sunrise at sea!!

Is there a charge for the entertainment?

Never.  On a cruise vacation, the entertainment is on the house.  There’s no cover charge. No minimum.  No charge for admission tickets.  The shows are live.  The movies are first- rate. The variety is limitless. 

Is it easy to meet people?

A cruise ship is a great place to make new friends, because everyone’s so friendly.  The atmosphere is cordial and relaxed.  And you’ll have all kinds of things in common to talk about...at dinner...at cocktails...around the pool...or along the promenade rail looking out at the beautiful panorama of the sea.  And don’t be surprised if you find yourself making arrangements to meet them aboard ship again next year!

Will there be people like me?

No matter what you’ve heard to the contrary, there’s no such thing as a typical cruise passenger!  All kinds of people take cruises...of all ages...from all walks of life...singles, couples, and families.  Passengers can vary from ship to ship and cruise to cruise. Just ask  CRUISE ADVENTURES TRAVEL COMPANY  for advice on the best ship for you, your tastes, and your lifestyle.

Can I travel alone?

Cruising is ideal for people traveling alone, because it’s so easy to meet other people.  In fact, many ships have parties early on for singles - so you can start to be involved right away. Some cruiselines  have single cabins or single rates for double staterooms.  Some cruiselines offer special single occupancy rates...but best advice...find a friend.  It's more fun to travel with a friend.

What should I pack?

Pack like you would for any resort.  Cruise vacations are casual by day, whether you’re on the ship or ashore.  In the evening, ships vary as to dress.  As on shore, attire is dictated by the occasion.  For the Captain’s Gala you will probably want to wear something more formal, such as a dark suit or cocktail dress, or even a tuxedo and gown.

Will I need a tuxedo?

If you have one and you like to wear it, bring it along!  But don’t go out and buy one for the trip.  Even on the most formal of ships, a dark suite and tie are just fine.

Can I use my hair dryer or shaver?

Certainly.  Virtually all ships have 110-volt outlets in the staterooms.

What are different “meal seatings?”

Some ships’ dining rooms can accommodate all passengers in one “seating”.  Most, however, have two seatings which differ only by time.  To choose, just decide whether you prefer to dine early or later - then have us request your preference when you book.  Whichever seating you choose, remember that the best way to make new friends is to ask for a large table!! Also, if you don’t like the restriction or eating with the same people or at the same time, many cruiselines now offer Personal Choice or Open dining as an option.

Can I have seconds?

Everything that you’ve ever heard about cruise ship dining is true.  You’ll find a varied selection of entrees ( as well as appetizers, salads, soups, vegetables, and desserts too!)...every time you sit down.  And there’s virtually no limit on what or how much you can order.  Best of all, the one thing you’ll never see on a cruise ship menu is a price!!

Will I gain weight?

Not if you don’t want to!  In addition to “low cal” or “fitness” menu selections, you’ll have ample opportunities to stay fit.  You can jog, work out in the gym, join in aerobics, swim, golf, play tennis...and much more!

Can I get a special diet?

Most ships can accommodate salt-free, low-carbohydrate, Kosher, or other diet preferences. However, this request MUST be made in advance.  So be sure to advise us of this requirement when you book your cruise.

What if I don’t like my table mates?

Rarely is this a problem.  However, if you wish to move to another table, speak with the maitre d’. He’ll make every effort to seat you with more compatible dining companions...discretely and politely.

Are there”non smoking” areas?

Today, most of the dining rooms are non smoking.  Show rooms may be non smoking or have designated smoking areas..

Can we celebrate a special day?

Absolutely!  Most cruise lines will even treat you to a complimentary cake and a chorus of “Happy Whatever” to honor the occasion.  Your birthday or anniversary can be more festive with champagne, flowers, canapes, wine or cheese.  You can even arrange for a special private party...Just advise us in advance and we’ll take care of it.

Is cruising right for honeymooners?

Without a doubt.  Cruising creates an atmosphere that’s just right for romance...cozy dinners for two, strolling hand in hand on deck at sunset, dancing the night away (even under the stars) and so much more to remember forever!!  Most lines provide special services - from Sunday or Monday departures to welcome champagne and breakfast in bed (and, speaking of beds...most cruise lines have them in queen or even king sizes!!)

Can we stay in touch with the “outside”?

Quite easily.  Most ships have a daily newsletter with news headlines, selected stock quotes, and sport scores.  Many have in cabin televisions with satellite feeds.  You can call someone on shore while at sea...but remember it’s rather costly...and, of course, you can call home while ashore. Also, you can stay connected in the internet cafés on most cruise ships, but there is an additional charge.  If you wish to bring a laptop, please ask us to check with the cruiseline to see if you can connect onboard.

What about tipping?

Tipping is, of course, a matter of individual preference.  But there are guidelines.   Today, most tipping is done via your onboard account and is usually in the neighborhood of $10 per person per day.  This covers your steward, your waiter and busboy.  Other shipboard personnel can be tipped for special services or at your discretion.

In bars, tipping is included in the bill. No additional tipping is required.   You may adjust your tipping accordingly choosing to tip higher if  you wish.

Isn’t sea sickness a problem?

Not really.  The most popular cruise areas boast some of the calmest waters in the world and, in addition, stabilizers on modern ships, advanced availability of accurate weather information, and effective medications, have, for the most part, eliminated the incidence of motion discomfort.

Are there medical services on board?

Virtually every cruise ship (except smaller vessels which operate in coastal waters) have a fully equipped medical facility and staff to handle almost any emergency.

Are there laundry services aboard?

Yes.  Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities and many also provide dry cleaning services. too at, of course, an additional charge.  Many ships also have self service laundries too.

Do cruise lines accept group bookings?

CRUISE ADVENTURES TRAVEL COMPANY works with groups - often at reduced rates- depending on how many people are involved.  Policies vary from cruise line to cruise line and depending on time of year.  Just call us for details.

Are there meeting rooms onboard?

Yes.  Most cruise lines will be happy to make public rooms available to groups.  If you need to make such arrangements, let us know so that we can work with the cruise line’s group department to coordinate schedules as well as any additional services your group requires.  This service usually allows access to audio-visual equipment too.

Can I extend my cruise vacation?

CRUISE ADVENTURES TRAVEL COMPANYcan arrange pre or post cruise land packages at the same time you book your cruise.

There’s no such thing as a perfect vacation. What are the negatives?

In all seriousness, the one major complaint we hear over and over again is that cruises end far too soon!  Beyond that, it’s hard to find any negatives.  After all, you don’t have to run to make plane connections to get from one port to the next.  You don’t have the hassles of making dinner or nightclub reservations.  You don’t have the bother of packing and unpacking as you move from place to place.  You don’t get unexpected expensive surprises at restaurants.  You have a wealth of options for shopping, adventure, sightseeing, exploring, entertainment and sports activities.  All you have to worry about is relaxing and enjoying your vacation.  Most importantly, every crew & staff member on board is dedicated to making your cruise vacation Most importantly, every crew & staff member on board is dedicated to make your cruise vacation the best vacation of your life (until you top it the next year with another cruise!)