Cruise Holidays, a British Favourite?
People seem to either love them or hate them. Cruises are usually loved by those who have tried them, and dismissed by a large proportion who haven’t tried them. Despite some being sceptical about taking a cruise holiday, they are now worth a massive £2 billion to the British economy. A whopping one in eight package holidays is now a cruise. It is officially the fastest growing sector of the British holiday industry. It is estimated that 1.76 million people will take a cruise this year.
If you are still unsure, perhaps have a look at some cruise holidays web forums, such as Cruise Mates where you are able to ask those perhaps unanswered questions.
How to choose a cruise?
Since there are so many cruises on offer, it can be hard to know where to start. As well as this article, USA Today has put together a useful guide to choosing a cruise. At the bottom end of the cruising scale there are those that are offered by well known package holiday companies. These usually offer a cruise on a budget, with comfortable surroundings and good entertainment. However, these ships are often older usually retired vessels from bigger well known cruise lines. They can however be a very good introduction to cruising and are not to be dismissed.
In the middle of the market there are the large, well known cruise lines. These are often known for their action packed activities on board and cater particularly for families. These are often some of the biggest cruise ships in the world, with up to 4,000 passengers. They are generally of a good standard, and are aimed at the budget conscious family. There is little in the way of formality on board.
At the higher end of the market there are lavish cruise experiences, with formal dining, amazing furnishings and top notch service. One such company is Azamara Luxury Club cruises. They specialise in ‘destination immersion’, which focuses on longer stays in ports and more overnight stop overs, allowing passengers to become fully immersed in the local culture. Their ships are usually smaller vessels, which offer some of the greatest luxury in the cruise industry. For some further information regarding luxury cruising and some of the myths surround it have a look at Luxe Travels blog, which you may find useful.
So what makes a cruise holiday so popular?
One of the biggest attractions for many people is the easy access to far flung destinations. If you open your world map and use your finger to choose any area near the sea, chances are you will be able to get there by cruise ship. Did you know that you are able to travel to the Kamchatka Peninsula in the Russian Far East by expedition cruise? Didn’t think so!
Of course, many choose a cruise as they see it as a relaxing experience. Once you are tired of your shore excursion, then its time to relax on deck near the pool. Or on some vessels maybe take in a round of golf, learn to surf, visit the ice bar or simply try your luck in one of the casinos. Cruising does seem to have something for everyone.
