Why Should I Take a Cruise Vacation? Tips for First Time Cruisers

Despite the many thousands of people who cruise annually, there are actually more people out there who have NOT ever taken a cruise vacation and, in fact, may never have considered doing so for a variety of reasons. That being the case, I'm here to give you a number of reasons why you should consider taking your first cruise vacation, and sooner than later.

• Cost Effectiveness: When you go on a resort or other type of vacation, you have to look at all sorts of costs involved, such as: air fare, hotel room(s), meals, entertainment, rental car, et cetera. When you go on a cruise, the vast majority of your costs are included. Of course, there are some things that you will pay for on a case by case basis, but only if you choose to use the service(s), such as: the spa, alcoholic beverages, specialty restaurants and shore excursions. Otherwise, one price buys your stateroom, entertainment and dining.
• Cruising for Couples: Whether you are an engaged or newlywed couple looking for a romantic honeymoon experience, or a long married or committed couple looking for a way to reinforce or rekindle the romance, cruising is an excellent option. There are cruises available for every interest: exotic destinations with secluded beaches, Hawaii, remote South America, the cosmopolitan cities of Europe and the Mediterranean, the fabulous frontiers of Alaska--just about anywhere you might want to go, and anything you want to do.
• Cruising for the Cuisine: No matter if you are a gourmet with a sophisticated palate or just someone who loves a good meal, cruising has something for you. Holland America Lines has started a demonstration program called "culinary arts center" where renowned culinary artists come aboard the ship and do demonstration cooking in a special culinary arts center similar to the sets you see when you watch the Food Network and other cooking shows. All ships have a variety of dining options--from the buffet line to the specialty gourmet restaurant--sue to please even the most discriminating diner.
• Variety: Were you to live to be over 100 years old, it would be nearly impossible to take a cruise on every ship, every cruise line, and every itinerary available (unless, of course, you go on a different one every week starting in your youth, then it might be possible to accomplish the feat). Take a moment to think of someplace you have always wanted to go, no matter how exotic or off the beaten path. Chances are there is a cruise itinerary that includes the locale of your dreams, and a ship that will meet your expectations.
• Activities: If you are one of those people who loves to cram every waking moment of your vacation with something different, cruising provides you with a multitude of opportunities to do exactly that. Shopping, shore excursions, spa and workout routines, Broadway type shows, first run movies, cultural lectures, port talks, art auctions, dancing, gaming, lectures by naturalists or area historians, or just plain "chilling out" and watching the stars go by from a secluded part of the deck--they are all available to you on a cruise.
• Cruising for Families: Just because you have children (even very young ones) does not mean that you cannot take a cruise vacation. Most of the cruise ships that you may book have children's programs for children from about two years of age on through teenagers, with special age-appropriate activities. One cruise line--Disney--is geared to families with children. Babysitting is available on most ships as well, for those occasions when parents want a bit of alone time while traveling with their offspring. Dining rooms have childrens' menus, as well, with items more commonly chosen by younger diners.
• Pampering: Most of us, I'm sure, have seen the Celebrity Cruise Lines ads where they indicate that passengers are treated like royalty (and may have a difficult time returning to their "normal lives" after the cruise is over). The average crew to passenger ratio is 1 crewmember per 2 passengers. And you WILL be treated like royalty, believe it. You will have a cabin steward/ess to see to your needs on a nearly 24 hour per day basis; 24 hour room service; and much more.
• Buyer Satisfaction: Cruise vacations have the highest customer satisfaction ratings of any type of vacation experience.

If you are thinking about taking a cruise and want more information, be sure to visit a cruise specialist who can help you to make the best choice for your budget, circumstances and interests.