Want a vacation that actually feels like a vacation? Without spending months on planning that requires detailed spreadsheets and endless hours on the internet?
Consider a cruise.
If you want to see the world without compromising on accommodations, today’s cruise ships give you the best of both worlds. Transportation and ever-changing destinations combined with luxurious staterooms, private verandas, butler service, and gourmet restaurants.
Today’s cruise ships come in a variety of sizes and offer a plethora of experiences – whether a mega ocean liner, a boutique ship, expedition vessel, or an intimate yacht – you’ll find a cruise line that fits your travel style.
Here are a few reasons why we think a cruise might be the perfect solution to your next vacation – offering both relaxation and unique experiences.
1 Check-in Once, Unpack Once
Embark, check-in, unpack. And let your hassle-free vacation begin. Stow your luggage because you won’t need it again until you disembark. Your clothes will hang neatly in the closet; no digging in your suitcase required.
2 Leave the Schedule Behind
No detailed schedules required on a cruise. The only time you come close to a schedule is when you are planning the next day’s shore excursions, making an appointment for an ultra-luxuriant massage, or signing up for a wine pairing class.
3 Bring the Family (Or Don’t)
An ocean cruise offers something for all ages, which makes it ideal for a multi-generational vacation. From grandparents to young children, there are activities designed for every age and interest. But, if the idea of a romantic getaway is appealing, a cruise is perfect for that also (think moonlit strolls along the promenade).
4 Get a World View
Cruising gives you access to a number of ports of call in some of the world’s most unique and vibrant destinations. Many of which might be on your bucket list, so you’ll get the pleasure of crossing one, or more, off your list as well.
5 Go Ashore
While in port, take advantage of an extensive array of onshore tours and activities that are offered by most cruise lines. For an intimate experience, Virtuoso Voyages private shore excursions are an ideal way to get an exclusive and behind-the-scenes look at an area.
6 Learn Something New
Today’s cruises offer so much more rest and relaxation. Educational opportunities abound for those interested in learning a new skill. Workshops by renowned experts, guest speakers, and hands-on learning are a part of a cruise agenda. You’ll find everything from hands-on culinary classes led by Master Chefs to photography lessons in the Galapagos with certified photographers.
7 Enjoy Both Luxury and Value
Enjoy the bundled pricing of a cruise and leave the headaches of itemized bills behind. You’ll find cruise lines that offer all-inclusive pricing (which can include alcohol, gratuities, and shore excursions), and some luxury cruise lines like Crystal Cruises or Regent Seven Seas Cruises, include business-class airfare or shipboard credits that you can use at the spa or in the onboard boutiques.
8 Unleash the Foodie in You
Gone are the days of scheduled dining times and scheduled seating. Today’s cruise lines offer everything from private in-stateroom dining to pool-side bistros to specialty restaurants, featuring menus crafted by Michelin-starred chefs. You’ll find extensive wine collections onboard and sommeliers to help you select the perfect wine to pair with your meal.
9 Give Back
Become a global citizen and a part of the local community with a voluntourism shore excursion. These excursions have become very popular and are a rewarding and positive way to give back while on a cruise.
