With millions of passengers expected to take a cruise this year, there’s no doubt it’s a popular travel option. However, for many the attractions of a cruise vacation are a mystery, often shrouded in misconceptions.
Whether for fear of seasickness or thinking about too much organized fun, many miss out on the unique experience that a cruise vacation offers, claiming that it is “not for them.”
To dispel misconceptions about cruising, Gordon Nardini, chief innovation officer at Ambassador Cruise Linehas compiled a list of the most common myths about cruising and debunked them once and for all.
Myth: Cruises are more complicated than flying
Gordon Nardini, chief innovation officer at Ambassador Cruise Line, says flightless cruises are a convenient, hassle-free way to travel.
Gordon says cruises offer a hassle-free travel experience, contrary to popular belief. Since several operators offer cruises without flights, he says, “you can start your vacation from the moment you leave home.”
He explains: ‘Boarding directly on the ship from various UK ports means that the first day of your “holiday” really feels like a holiday. Instead of enduring a stressful day of travel, you can arrive at the port at your assigned time, go through security without a hitch, have your bags delivered to your cabin, and be on board eating, watching shows, sharing a drink with friends, or sleeping comfortably.
«In addition, during a cruise vacation there are no liquid restrictions. No more losing your favorite moisturizer or drinking two liters of water when you approach security.’
Myth: Limited food and drink options
“The ease of not having to think about cooking is one of the best parts of a vacation and a cruise takes it even further,” says Gordon
In fact, Gordon says that cruises are a “foodie’s paradise.” He adds: “From gourmet dining to casual buffets, the variety of restaurants on board a cruise means guests will always find something they crave.”
‘The ease of not having to think about cooking is one of the best parts of a holiday and a cruise takes it even further, with delicious dishes to suit all tastes – across the board. From poolside snacks, late-night canapés and fine dining options to all-day buffet style dining, even the pickiest diner will find something to satisfy his cravings.’
If that wasn’t enough, at each new port there is the option to “go down and try the local cuisine.” He says this combination of onboard and offboard dining will mean “you leave with a pretty full stomach at the end of the vacation.”
Myth: Cruise ships lack privacy
Cruise ships have plenty of secluded places to hide, Gordon says, even on small and medium-sized ships.
While some may think that cruises lack privacy, Gordon says “there are plenty of opportunities to find alone time on the ship.”
He says: “From quiet spots around the pool, reading a book in an onboard library to your private balcony, if it’s solitude you’re after, the cruise has plenty of secluded places for you to hide away, even on small to medium-sized voyages.” . -Size boats.
“In addition, cruise ship cabins are the perfect space to relax and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With the gentle sound of the sea lulling you to sleep every night, cruises can be a great space to relax, read a book, meditate or just be alone with your thoughts for a while.”
Myth: Motion sickness is inevitable
Gordon says that “most cruise ships find their way at sea” after a day or two on board
If you suffer from motion sickness, this concern is understandable. But Gordon points out that “cruise ships are specially designed to reduce wave motion on board.” While you may have experienced a “drop in your stomach” on a dingy ship or ferry, Gordon says this “doesn’t mean the same thing will happen on a cruise ship.”
And he adds: ‘AAfter a day or two, most cruise ships find their way out to sea. Bodies are intelligent and extremely adaptable, which means they make us feel happy and ready for vacation when we’re at sea. And, in case things get worse, all cruise ships should have a supply of anti-sickness remedies on board.’
Myth: Cruises are not for me
Whatever you enjoy on vacation, Gordon says you’ll find something that “floats your boat.”
Gordon Nardini (pictured), head of innovation at Ambassador Cruise Line
Gordon says seaside holidays offer something for everyone. He says: ‘Whether you’re a solo explorer, an avid adventurer, or a couch potato, there’s a cruise experience for you.
‘The beauty of a cruise lies in the freedom of choice: immerse yourself in off-the-beaten-path adventures at the destination, such as exploring the enchanting fjords of Norway or the walled city of Santiago de Compostela, participate in onboard activities such as engaging talks from experts on the subject, film screenings, exercise classes or craft workshops, or simply relax in your cabin and enjoy the stunning views from the balcony.
“Whether you prefer tracksuits and tequilas to party dresses and Bellinis, a cruise vacation is made for you; it’s really a case of… whatever floats your boat.”