!"#$"#%&'#$&()'##"#%&'&*+,"-. “A
ll cruise ships are different, so it’s a case of choosing the ship that would appeal to you most,” says Andy Harmer, director of the Association of Cruise Experts. “It could be a larger ship with plenty of facilities or a small intimate one that can access ports other ships can’t. There are river and expedition ships that explore off-the-beaten-track destinations around the world. You need to decide the style of holiday you are looking for, then think about where in the world you would like to visit.”
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“It was with Disney to the Bahamas. My son was thrilled with the kids’ club, we both learned to snorkel and I couldn’t believe how much better I slept on a ship.”
LIZ JARVIS, EDITOR
Cruises from a home port – particularly if you live nearby – can be more relaxing and cheaper than those that involve flying. If you’re not sure whether cruising is for you, “try a short cruise,” suggests P&O managing director Carol Marlow. There are more short breaks than ever before, she adds, with P&O including entertainment from top names including Russell Watson and Britain’s Got Talent duo Jonathan and Charlotte.
Decide what is most important to you – the destinations or the ship – and work from there. Some cruises have a stop every day (so you’re on board for late a!ernoon and evening) while others can be at sea for days at a time.
PHOTOS: DISNEY CRUISE LINE/UNIWORLD/ISTOCK/123RF
Watch out for all-inclusive cruises, says Silver Travel Advisor – they can be great value for those who like a drink, but if you’re a person of more modest tastes you’ll be subsidising other passengers.
River cruises offer the adventure of a cruise combined with that of an escorted tour. Excursions and guided walks are included in the price – which is very good value if you like seeing a destination to the full. Many river cruises also offer wine with dinner, leaving little else to pay for. 22
| A PR IL /M AY 2013
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