If you’ve caught yourself eyeing cruises lately, but not sure, this is for you, First name / friend 

 

I was a very die hard obnoxious snooty anti-cruiser for years. 

 

 Now that I know my way around a variety of cruises it is one of my favorite ways to travel.  After traveling to Iceland on the gorgeous Atlas World Navigator with both our boys and Sam, I realized it is the perfect way to travel with family or a group of friends. Room to spread out, do your own thing, and then hook back up for dining.  

 

Traveling with family or a group can be stressful. Who wants to  manage everyone's travel style, pace and expectations? 

A cruise is a great way to minimize any potential travel drama.  

 

I am personally not a Disney person, but if you want to plan a trip with the grands this is a great way to go.  The littles will not want to even see you OR their parents for most of the voyage, and it is a fantastic experience for the grown ups too.  A win/win.      

 

A cruise is also a tremendous bang for your travel buck, and the best way to visit Antarctica or see the Galapagos.   

 

Booking a cruise might look as easy as clicking a button online, but there’s an art and science to making it the smooth, stress-free vacation it should be.

 

 

Cruise lines (and ships) are not all the same.  Just like people, cruise lines differ in personality.

 Matching you correctly with the right cruise line and vibe is the difference between a great trip and a total disaster.  

 

️ Itineraries can change. Weather, port logistics, weather ( yes, I said that twice) or other factors may shuffle your plans. Flexibility is part of the cruise experience.  Carefully understand the terms and conditions of each sailing.

 

Cabin location matters. Mid-ship vs. forward vs. aft can affect everything from motion to noise to convenience.  Consider what is above you too, and steer clear of cabins located near busy spots. 

 

Size Does Matter. For Antarctica or other pricey expedition itineraries, this is super important and you need to understand exactly what you are getting. ( or not)   Call me and I will explain why.  

 

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 “What if I get seasick?”: Modern ships have stabilizers, plus there are plenty of remedies (both natural and medical). The reality? Most barely notice movement. If you’re prone to motion sickness, a larger ship, or a river cruise, and a prescription from your doctor can help.  Steer clear of some itineraries though if this is a problem for you.     

 

  “Will I be bored on sea days?”: Between pools, shows, classes, dining, and entertainment, there’s more than enough to keep you busy — or relaxed, if that’s more your style.  Sea Days are my favorite, everyone can do their own thing or just chill out. 

 

“Do I really have to dress up?”:  Only if you want to . Some evenings may be formal, but it varies by cruise line. 

Packing an evening gown not your jam and you just want casual? There is a cruise for you. 

 

 “I don't like that many people ”:  ME EITHER! 

 

You don't need to be on a massive ship with a Six Flags Park on the top deck. Sizes range from 4 cabins ( luxe French river barge…swoon ) on up to way-to-big-you-don't-want-to really-know ships.   My sweet spot is 200 people and under, but if you want a casino, entertainment and lots of night life you will need bigger.  

 

(No judgment from me if you like the big ones!)   

️ P.S. Your trip doesn’t have to end when the ship pulls into port. Designing a pre- and/or post-cruise itinerary is something I am very into.  I also can plan shore excursions, flights and insurance.  ( I don't recommend cruise line air or their  insurance….it is not the bargain it seems.)     

 

P.P.S  Know what you want and you like to book yourself? 

 

Go ahead! You can transfer the booking to me.  I can then handle the rest of  the details, make your reservations, monitor the fare, manage any problems, and handle your pre- and post- destination planning.  I might even be able to add my Virtuoso amenities.  

 

P.P.P.S Sam and I are heading to Japan on October 31-November 18. November 9-15 we will be hiking the Nakesendo Trail, so my response times will be very delayed.