International Cruising...

Cruising is the fastest growing travel industry with millions of passengers each year taking an adventure on the high seas.

There are over 2,000 ports of call around the world and over 30,000 cruises each year to choose from, but some large resort-style ships are destinations within themselves! The record breaking Oasis of the Seas, for example, features an on board ice skating rink, two rock climbing walls, a ten pin bowling alley and a replica of New York’s Central Park with live grass to play bowls and even a multi level shopping promenade.

The beauty of a cruise is that not only will you witness spectacular entertainment on board, but you’ll pass incredible scenery on the voyage itself, with many stops on your itinerary only accessible by sea.

No matter what your budget, cruising caters to all ages, tastes and budgets, for singles, couples and families. Age specific kids clubs on board also allow parents to relax and some cruises even offer free travel for kids under 18.

BEST CRUISING DESTINATIONS

• Asia – close to Australia and so many cities in one voyage
• Alaska –the Alaskan wilderness is mostly inaccessible by land so cruising is the only way to see the native animals and the towering glaciers
• The Mediterranean – stunning beaches and the world’s oldest cities right outside your cabin every morning

WHY CHOOSE TO CRUISE…

• Value – accommodation, meals, entertainment, port charges, taxes and most gratuities are included
• Ease – unpack once and wake up at a different destination each day
• Variety – a cruise will take you to different countries or different regions within a country, all in the one holiday

MUST DO ACTIVITIES

• Have a cocktail during the first night ‘sail away’ party and say goodbye to the port you are leaving
• Do at least one organised shore excursion which will maximise your time ashore
• BINGO! It requires no knowledge, no decisions – it’s all luck and a LOT of fun! Plus, the big money to be won can go towards your onboard account (ie: your bar bill!). Winning is not just for the oldies…

SPENDING MONEY

• Everything purchased onboard is put onto an account for you to pay at the conclusion of your cruise – this is best done by credit card as your bank will give you the best exchange rate over the most recent 24 hour period
• When you go ashore to the different ports of call, different currency may be required (ie: on one cruise you might go though multiple countries requiring different currencies). A popular option is to simply withdraw the amount of local currency you need for the duration of your stay via the onshore ATM’s
• Keep in mind that if you are cruising in Europe, the currency onboard may not necessarily be the Euro - if you are on an American ship it will be US dollars

HANDY HINTS

• If you’re cruising for longer than 7 nights, consider upgrading to a balcony so you can have some relaxing time looking out to see in the privacy of your own cabin with balcony. For the most part, a cabin is used merely for showers and sleep, but sometimes it’s good to have a little time out from everyone else on board
• If you think you might get sea sick, choose a large ship as they have amazing stabilisers and they are so big you can actually forget you’re at sea. Also, choose an itinerary that hugs the coast line or goes around islands as they are calmer water and try to avoid open seas or ocean crossings. Choose a cabin in the middle of the vessel where the boat will rock the least
• Pack a couple of good outfits as cruises are still slightly old fashioned (in a nice way) and there will be some dress up nights and more formal dinners to attend. It’s always best to come prepared in case you’re invited to the Captain’s table!