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The Maritime Administration
(MARAD), part of the U.S. Department
of Transportation, which is responsible for
the U.S. maritime transportation system
of freight cargo and cruise travel, states
that for the first six months of 2003, cruise
travel increased by 9 percent over the same
period in 2002. And as the years pas, the
numbers continue to grow. MARADÕs
statistics cover 10 cruise lines that operate
cruise ships with a capacity of more than
750 passengers out of the United States.
What that boils down to is passenger numbers
are up on the major cruise lines across
the board.
Even though cruising is so popular, there
are still many people who are thinking
about this type of vacation that need more
information before climbing aboard. Here
are the main points to consider:
1. Affordability:
Many people think
that cruising is expensive. In actuality when
you factor in what you would spend during
another vacation on accommodations,
food, travel and entertainment, cruising
is equal to or even costs less than other
types of vacations. Plus, many ships offer
different types of room packages depending
upon your budget. For example, a
stateroom with a window or balcony may
be more expensive than a room with a porthole
or that is located within the interior
of the ship. Considering you'll really only
be spending sleeping hours in your room,
you can maximize your vacation budget by
choosing a less expensive package.
2. All-inclusive nature: Most cruise
ships are all-inclusive, meaning all meals
and events taking place on the ship are included in your price.
This is particularly appealing to those with hearty appetites
who anxiously await the famous buffets and dinner services
synonymous with cruising. In addition, a number of beverages
will also be included. However, some such as soft drinks or
alcoholic beverages are typically an additional cost, so keep this
in mind.
3. New adventures at every port:
 As if the activities taking
place on the cruise ship were not enough - many of the larger
cruise lines have casinos, rock walls, skating rinks, swimming
pools, hot tubs, dance clubs and more to keep you entertained
- every time you reach a port-of-call, there's the potential for
new adventures. Cruise lines typically offer excursion packages
that may be booked in advance or while en route to the next
port. These can include scuba diving or snorkeling, tours of the
countryside or trips to tourist spots. Please note that there is
often an added charge for these. Not interested in spending any
additional money? Make your own adventures when at port.
Just be sure to keep to the ship's itinerary and be back on board
for each departure.
4. Food, glorious food: You probably already know that
cruising and dining go hand in hand, but what you may not
realize is that there are a variety of dining choices. Because most
passengers are on board during meal service and naturally when
the ship is between ports, dinner in the main dining room is
typically assigned to each guest. You can choose between an
early dinner (6 p.m.) or a late dinner (8 p.m.) in most cases,
depending upon your preferences, but you must do so when
booking the cruise. Some ships may also have a buffet that is
more casual and flexible in hours, in addition to any other specialty
restaurants or pubs on board. You might want to hold off
on dieting until after your cruise!
5. Wardrobe: While there is no standard wardrobe you
must pack for cruising, it is wise to bring a variety of options,
including a suit or sports jacket for the guys and a cocktail dress
for the ladies just in case there is a formal dinner night. Plan to
pack items that will keep you comfortable at each port of call.
You can consult with your cruise line to find out about any
wardrobe recommendations. And remember, some cruise ships
have boutiques on board so you can stock up on whatever you
may have forgotten to pack.
6. Departure may be close to home: Many cities play host
to cruise ships. While Miami and other areas in Florida are
quite popular departure locations, New York, New Jersey and
other areas of the country are also cities where cruise ships
reside. Check out the departure options for the cruise line
you're investigating.
7. Seasickness is possible, but rare: Cruise ships are luxury
ocean liners. On board you will not feel the same dips and
drops as if you were on a smaller vessel. Therefore, do not avoid
cruising for fear of seasickness alone. Plus, there are many overthe-
counter motion sickness remedies available to pack along,
(just in case.)
Sailing the high seas and visiting exotic (or domestic) portsof-
call are part of the fun of cruising. To learn more about
destinations and travel packages, visit your local travel agent or
contact your favorite cruise line.
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