Herald Travel writers give their best tips for cruise holidays.
Don't write off cruising as a whole, just because you get seasick or you don't like the idea of a 6000-passenger mega-liner. There really is a cruise out there for everyone. River cruises are gentle and sturdy, great for those
prone to seasickness. On my Uniworld cruise along the Seine earlier this year, I found the ship's movement to be very soothing and I slept soundly every night. The luxurious bed helped, of course. Small-ship cruises are good for those who want to be out on the water but don't want to fight hundreds of people to get to the buffet - try Peregrine Adventures' newly released Adventure Cruising itineraries for all the benefits of a cruise, minus the huge crowds.
Big ship cruises are actually pretty fun though, so don't discount them. I once cruised on the Celebrity Millennium with about 1800 other passengers, and had a really good time.
When I was hungry, there was food. When I was thirsty, there were drinks. When I wanted entertainment, there was always some activity to join in or watch. When I wanted alone time, I hung out in my cabin watching the ocean drift by. Try it . . . you may find it's the most relaxing holiday you've ever had.
- Stephanie Holmes
Do your homework and make sure the size of your ship and the culture of the line suits you. Like-minded cruisers are happy cruisers and if you want a floating resort with scores of activities every hour of every day and night, you won't want to find yourself on a destination vessel featuring lectures on the culture and history of the next port of call.
- Maureen Marriner
