SO, YOU WANT TO CRUISE? THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
SO, YOU WANT TO CRUISE? LIKE THE IDEA OF WAKING UP IN A NEW COUNTRY EVERYDAY? Then why not look into cruising for your next holiday? If you want to explore the world from the comfort of a sun lounger, the top of a rock climbing wall, watching West End standard shows or while relaxing in a spa, a cruise might be your idea of a perfect holiday.
This brochure looks at the things you can do onboard some of the best cruise ships while you’re at sea, as well as some of the most popular destinations and shore excursions. It also goes though embarking the ship, and what’s included in the price you pay.
CONTENTS 1
3
5
Amenities Onboard
Fly Cruises and Embark from Southampton
Around The Mediterranean
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9
11
In The Caribbean
Through Scandinavia and the Baltic
What’s Included?
Amenities Onboard WHAT CAN YOU DO ON THE SHIPS? In between destinations while you’re at sea or during the evening, you can enjoy the entertainment onboard the ship, and there is plenty to see. Every cruise line focuses on different types of amenities to suit a range of people. From 200ft tall rock climing walls and ice skating rinks to spas, there’s something for everyone.
Here you’ll discover some of the most popular things you can do on some of the best ships, including the new Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas, Celebrity Cruises and Cunard Queen Mary 2. No matter your age or preferences, these are sure to make you want to go on a cruise holiday - just to experience the ship!
1. RESTAURANTS
2. ROCK CLIMBING
3. PROMENADE
From 24/7 buffets and ice cream parlours to formal dining and themed restaurants, there is plenty of new foods to try. You can also get food delivered to your cabin!
Some Royal Caribbean have a rock climbing which can reach up to above sea level! This really fun activity with surrounding views.
Promenades run through the center of ships and usually include shops selling gifts, acrobatic shows, art galleries and cafes for you to wander through.
1. CUNARD QUEEN MARY 2
3. NAVIGATOR OF THE SEAS
1. 2. OASIS OF THE SEAS
ships wall, 200ft is a great
4. ALLURE OF THE SEAS
6. LIBERTY OF THE SEAS
5. LIBERTY OF THE SEAS
7. PRINCESS CRUISES
9. NAVIGATOR OF THE SEAS
8. ALLURE OF THE SEAS
4. CENTRAL PARK
5. FITNESS
6. POOL
On Allure of the Seas, there is a fully living park going through the centre of the ship. This is one of the main features of the new ship to launch next year.
From jogging tracks and state of the art gyms to full sized sports courts and mini golf, you can still keep up your fitness regime on holiday.
A standard with cruise ships, they will most likely have a pool, including adult only as well as kids pools with water activities available.
7. SPA
8. THEATRE
9. ICE SKATING RINK
For total relaxtion, most cruise liners have spas where you can relax in a jacuzzi, have a massage, see a beautician or get your hair cut.
The most common form of nightly entertainment on all cruise ships is the theatre. This includes singers, aquatheatre and West End style shows.
Navigator of the Seas has an ice-skating rink where you can watch nightly performances as well as have a go yourself in the day.
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SAMPLE ITINERARY Day 1: Transfer to Ship
Barcelona, Spain Day 2
Day at Sea
Fly Cruises
Day 3
Marseilles, France Day 4
FLY TO YOUR DEPARTURE PORT A lot of crusie lines offer a cruise and flight package, where you can fly to the destination of the departure port. The price will include transfer and flights so you don’t have to worry about getting there yourself. A lot of cruise lines also recommend hotels, so you can get there the night before or have a mini holiday before you embark. Some companies, like Thomson, offer a cruise and stay package. This includes a flight to the departure port with a weeks cruising, as well as a weeks stay in a hotel there. Departure ports include Baltimore, Barcelona, Boston, Fort Lauderale, Hong Kong, Perth, Rome, San Juan, Sydney and Singapore. Fly cruises are good option if you want to explore destinations that you might not be able to embark from in the UK. You can visit the Caribbean, Canada, South America, Asia and Australia, so flying gives you a lot more options.
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Cannes, France Day 5
Florence, Italy Day 6
Civitavecchia, Italy Day 7
Naples, Italy Day 8
Day at Sea Day 9: Transfer to Airport
Barcelona, Spain
Embark From Southampton DEPARTING FROM THE UK Rather than flying to a departure destination, Southampton has a big port and lots of the major cruise lines embark from here. There is a big car park at the port where although charges apply, it would be cheaper than booking a flight. There are also coaches that travel nationwide to the port if you don’t want to leave your car there. Royal Caribbean do a ‘Door to Port Service’ whereby you get picked up from your house and get taken to your nearest coach terminal. From there you go to the port on an executive coach.
There are lots of destinations you can go to from Southampton such as Europe, Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. Places such as Greece, Turkey, Italy, Cyprus, France, Spain, Ajjacio, Norway, Russia, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Iceland and more are all accessible from here. These are very different countries, and so there is still a lot of choice when embarking from here, and you don’t need to fly to a departure port to experience the world. Below is a sample itinerary that you could go on.
SAMPLE ITINERARY Day 1: Embark Ship
Southampton, England Day 2
Day at Sea Day 3
Bergen, Norway Day 4
Alesund, Norway Day 5
Flam, Norway Day 6
Stavanger, Norway Day 7: Depart Ship
Southampton, England
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Around The Mediterranean
WHY THE MEDITERRANEAN? This is one of the most popular cruise destinations, as there is so much variation in the destinations and the activities you can do while you’re there. It also means you can embark from the UK. From scuba diving in Sardinia to riding a gondola in Venice and visiting the La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, there is something for everyone.
This section goes through the most popular countries, cities and islands to visit in the Mediterranean, as well as the best shore excursions to take part in while you’re there to make the most of your trip. Shore excursions are an important part of cruising, and are arranged via the cruise line.
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS SPAIN
GREECE
Barcelona is the perfect place to see all of Gaudi’s iconic architecture such as Casa Battlo and La Sagrada Familia. Or why not visit the famous Alhambra Palace in Granada, or relax with a glass of sangria in Palma de Mallorca.
Visit the pictoresque island of Santorini, or see the ancient relics of Athens. Then you can relax on the beaches in Corfu or Zakynthos. Make the most of the beaches by going on boat trips into the sea and admiring the blue, clear seas.
FRANCE
ITALY
Stroll along the French Riveria, and you can overlook the yachts In Villafranche, or see the Grand Casino in Monte Carlo. Pretend your’e a film star on the red carpet in Cannes, or see the Notre Dame de la Garde in Marseilles.
Crammed with historical sites, see Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel, pose next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa or see the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain in Rome. Inbetween all of this, be sure to try the Italian delicacies like pasta.
TURKEY
CORSICA
Rich in culture, you can visit the site of Temple of Artemis, one of the Ancient Wonders of the World. Famous for its food, sample the local Turkish delight delicacy and spice markets, or relax in a Turkish mud bath.
The most mountainous island of the Mediterranean, it’s covered in sandy beaches, cliff faces, lakes and vinyards, so there are plenty of photo opportunities. You can also visit the Turtle sanctuary where they look after a lot of endangered species.
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TYPICAL SHORE EXCURSIONS 1. BARCELONA
4. SANTORINI
Park Guell is one of Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces, and is perfect to walk through on a sunny day admiring the mosaic work and garden. There are benches, a lizard and ceilings all made from mosaic. There are two converted houses that sell souvenirs, one which Gaudi himself lived in.
Oia Village is a small town in the Cyclades of Greece. Once there, sail to the Athinios Harbour and take a journey up the cliff face of the caldera to see the traditional whitewashed houses and blue domed roofs. These are a great photo opportunity and offer breathtaking views.
2. MONTE CARLO
5. PISA
This is a square with the Hotel de Paris and the Cafe de Paris where you can have an (expensive) cup of coffee and cake. But not forgetting the famous Monte Carlo Casino, which was one of the first big casinos, and is known for its opulence and formal dress code.
In Cathedral Square, you can take the famous leaning pose outside the Leaning Tower which famously started sinking into the ground when it was built. While there, you can also make the most of the trip by seeing other monuments like the Pisa Bapistry, Campo Santo and Duomo di Pisa.
3. ISTANBUL
6. CORSICA
The largest city in Turkey, discover traditional Turkish cuisine at the Spice Bazaar, which sells the likes of Turkish delight, oils, nuts and spices. Then you can go to the Beyoglu Farmer’s Market, as well as the Kumkapi Fish Market. Afterwards, why not enjoy an authentic Turkish meal at a restaurant.
While in Ajaccio, you can board a mini train at Cricheto Pass, where you’ll see the green landscape, vineyards and cliff faces that the island has to offer. After the ride, you can take a photo at the stunning Lake Tolla before heading back to the ship.
1. PARK GUELL
2. PLACE DU CASINO
3. SPICE BAZAAR
5. LEANING TOWER OF PISA 4. OIA VILLAGE 6. AJACCIO
In The Caribbean WHY THE CARIBBEAN? Escape to the Caribbean’s idyllic waters, palm trees and sandy beaches on a cruise for the most relaxing holiday of a lifetime. You will have to fly to your departure port, and these could be Fort Lauderale, Puerto Rico or New York. This is because it is too far to port from Southampton, and there would be too many days at sea. If you want to relax, then you can sunbathe on one of the many beaches, or stroll past the colourful native houses. If you are more into adventure, then why not go hiking in Christoffel National Park or snorkel amongst tropical fish and reefs in Grand Caymen.
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS ANTIGUA With over 365 beaches - one for every day of the year - there’s only 70,000 habitants so plenty of space for ultimate, exclusive relaxation. If you want to make the most of the idyllic, blue sea around the island there are also plenty of opportunities to try out some watersports, such as snorkelling and windsurfing.
PUERTO RICO A vibrant and colourful nightlife and luxury resorts contrasts with the natural rainforests and idyllic beaches, so you really do get a bit of everything here. While here don’t get too caught up in the hustle and bustle of the island, and go to the rainforests to explore the natural waterfalls, pools and tropical plants.
BARBADOS Known as Little England, for the natives love of tea and cricket, it couldn’t be further from the truth with its white beaches and clear seas. This is the definite island to visit for its sandy beaches, coral reefs and chance to swim with turtles. You can also explore a natural wonder, Harrison’s Cave here where tours are provided.
JAMAICA A bustling island, you can enjoy everything from jungle river tubing, rum and sugarmaking tours, horse riding, snorkelling in the clear sea and aerial rainforest tours. If you want to enjoy their own laidback lifestyle, then why not try paddling in the clear says, eating some authentic foods and walk around the tropical gardens.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Explore inland on a 4x4 off road trip or go diving 150ft into natural waters with waterfalls. Visit the Samana Peninsula and go to the Whale Museum, La Churcha and fishing village of Las Terrenas there. Or, take a boat to the hidden island of Cayo and relax on the beach.
GRENADA Purple mountains, architecture and tropical plants will take your breath away on this stunning island. Famous for its nutmeg, visit the Isle of Spice and try the local Creole dishes. If you’re interested in history, you can also see the Fort Frederick.
1. YACHT RACE
2. BARCADI RUM DISTILLERY
3. ATLANTIS SUBMARINE
5. WALK THE PLANK ZIPLINE 4. DUNN’S RIVER FALLS
6. UNDERWATER PARK
TYPICAL SHORE EXCURSIONS 1. ST JOHNS
4. OCHO RIOS
Enter a yacht race and race head to head on a Beneteau 40.7 where you can either do sail trimming, winch grinding, time keeping, driving or just sit back and relax. After the race has ended, you can celebrate or drown your sorrows with some local rum punch.
One of the most popular attractions on the island is the Dunn’s River Falls. For the more adventurous there is 600ft available to climb here, or if you’re a little more reserved you can paddle at the bottom of this waterfall. Completely natural, this truly is a place not to miss here.
2. SAN JUAN
5. SAMANA
This is the largest rum distillery in the world, where you will learn the history and the process of turning sugar canes into rum. There is a bar on the tour where you will learn how to make a Mojito and a Cuba Libre with Bacardi. You will also get the chance to try different varieties and blends.
It’s 350ft above the Lulu waterfalls, over 7000ft long, and with 13 stations it is definitely one of the more action packed activities you can do. The Walk the Plank Zipline is the largest in the Dominican Republic and is made to get your blood pumping as you fly over the jungle.
3. BRIDGETOWN
6. MOLINERE BAY
Experience the sea as deep as 130ft on the totally unique, award-winning Atlantis Submarine tour, where you come in close contact with marine life in its natural habitat. It can also take you to a shipwreck so you can see what it looks like up close as fish swim around you.
Look at contemporary art at the first underwater scultpure park, and snorkel in the Marine Protected Area with equipment given to you. There are mainly human sculptures made from life casts of people from the Island. You can also go snorkelling in Dragon Bay or Flamingo Bay here.
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Through Scandinavia and the Baltic WHY SCANDINAVIA AND THE BALTIC? Visit the scenic and natural landscapes of Northern Europe destinations and discover nature’s works of wonder, such as the Artic Circle’s aurora borealis or one of Finland’s 187,888 thousand lakes. There are lots of cruise itineraries for these destinations, and are available to port from Southampton, so makes it an easily accessible choice for people who live in the UK. They are a popular choice for people who want to try something a little bit different from the typical sun and beach holidays, and offer a range of things to do - in the sun as well as the snow.
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS NORWAY
FINLAND
Known for its beautiful natural scenery, this is the place to see the phenomenon that is the Northern Lights, as well as endless bottomless lakes and tall cliffs. When walking through the towns, admire the colourful architecture the houses are known for.
You can’t visit Finland without going in a sauna - there are more saunas than there are cars! It is also known for its landscape with 187,888 lakes and 37 national parks.. Known for their ‘Finnwacky’ events, they have Air Guitar World Championships.
DENMARK
RUSSIA
The most Southern nordic country, it has the longest rail bridge in Europe, which connects to Sweden. If you like lager you can visit the Carlsberg factory, or if you’re more into history, then visit the Kronberg Castle and Øresund Bridge.
You will stop in St. Petersberg on a Russian cruise, and usually stay for two days to make the most of the city. You can visit stunning palaces and churches. The Hermitage Museum has artworks from Da Vinci, Matisse and Gaugin.
SWEDEN
ICELAND
Even though 10% of the country is covered in lakes and rivers, and it’s spread over 14 small islands, it is still the most populous of the Nordic countries. Stockholm oozes Scandinvian architecture and charm, whereas Gothenburg is ripe with culture, museums and things to do.
Well known for its hot springs and geysers, this is the best place to visit geothermal sites, where they are said to have medicinal benefits. The country is also rife with lava fields, mountains, waterfalls and of course, the Blue Lagoon. If you want to stay indoors you can visit the Viking Museum.
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TYPICAL SHORE EXCURSIONS 1. OSLO
4. LAPLAND
Frogner Park is a public park which artist Gustav Vigeland has created a permanent installation for in the middle, and it involves a series of 212 bronze and granite sculptures. There are also bridges and fountain sculptures, as well as a Manor House in the park.
Husky safaris are a popular activity here because it’s a once in a lifetime experience and the dogs aer born and bred to lead sleds in the snow. You will be given lessons on how to handle the dogs and the sledge, and will lead six dogs, and will go through the wintery landscape of Lapland.
2. COPENHAGEN
5. ST. PETERSBERG
Tivoli Gardens is the second oldest amusement park in the world, as it opened in 1843. It’s also the second most popular seasonal theme park in the world which shows its popularity! It has 4 million visitors each year, and rides include a rollercoaster, the world’s tallest carousel and a giant swing.
From 1717, St Catherine Palace was where the Russian Tsars used to spend their Summers. Real gold has been used on the roof and facade as well as in the interior. It has a beautiful blue, white and gold facade which only gets more impressive inside.
3. STOCKHOLM
6. REYKJAVIK
The Ice Bar lives up to its name as everything is made of ice - from the furniture to the glasses. It’s always -5°, so you are given warm gloves and a coat to keep warm. A tour will include a drink of your choice in an ice glass. This is a definite visit for a unique experience.
The ultimate alternative spa experience, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. Rich in minerals such as silica and sulphur, it is known to help people suffering from skin diseases. As well as taking a dip, you can enjoy a tour, massages and an exclusive lounge.
1. FROGNER PARK
4. HUSKY SAFARI
2. TIVOLI GARDENS
3. ICE BAR
5. CATHERINE PALACE 6. BLUE LAGOON
What’s Included? IMPORTANT THINGS COVERED IN THE PRICE TAG It’s important to remember that although cruises can see pricey, there a lot of things covered in the cost of a cruise so you don’t have to worry about spending money onboard for certain things. You can also pay extra for transfers, room upgrades and travel to the departure port itself before you embark.
However, it is just as necessary to think about what isn’t covered, and how to plan your budget around this. These are things like shore excursions, gratuity tips, travel insurance, formal dining bookings, spa and beauty treatments, as well as the photographs that are taken onboard on a daily basis.
1. Food Some of the restaurants and self service buffet dining have all the food included, and are normally open 24/7. Buffet restaurants cook the food based on a different country each evening, so you get a little taste of everything. Formal dining and speciality restaurants aren’t included.
2. Entertainment On the evenings, ships will provide live entertainment including musicians, west end style shows, comedians and dance performances for free. Also included in the price is visiting the onboard cinema, nightclubs, as well as kids and teens clubs for children.
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3. Rooms You can choose the standard of room that you would like, whether it be a ocean view stateroom or luxury suite. Some rooms will have tea and coffee making facilities, a television, and the maid will usually make a towel origami animal for you when they clean the room.
4. Pools and The Sun! Nearly all ships have pools on the open deck for everyone to enjoy. There is usually a separate one for adults and children, as well as one in the spa. There are plenty of sun loungers on the top decks for everyone to catch the rays, so you don’t miss out not being on the beach.
5. Transfers When you book a fly cruise, flights and transfers to the port are incldued in the price. This is really useful as it saves you the hassle as well as picking suitable times for travelling to make sure you make the departure on time. If you drive to a port, you have to pay for car parking.
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WANT TO LOOK FURTHER? A FEW OF THE BEST CRUISE LINES
CUNARD
P&0
TOTAL SHIPS IN FLEET
TOTAL SHIPS IN FLEET
Three
Eight
KNOWN FOR
KNOWN FOR
Luxury weddings, older clientele and total comfort.
Trusted, renowned service, with personal touches.
WEBSITE
WEBSITE
www.cunard.co.uk
www.pocruises.co.uk
CELEBRITY CRUISES
PRINCESS CRUISES
TOTAL SHIPS IN FLEET
TOTAL SHIPS IN FLEET
Eleven
Sixteen
KNOWN FOR
KNOWN FOR
Luxurious service, staterooms and facilities.
Travel to over 300 ports with over 100 itineraries.
WEBSITE
WEBSITE
www.celebritycruises.co.uk
www.princess.com
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
ROYAL CARIBBEAN
TOTAL SHIPS IN FLEET
TOTAL SHIPS IN FLEET
Thirteen
Twenty One
KNOWN FOR
KNOWN FOR
Caribbean and transatlantic destinations.
Innovative and advanced amenities and ships.
WEBSITE
WEBSITE
www.ncl.co.uk
www.royalcaribbean.co.uk