Breaking Blue : Helping you explore the world!

In the past, cruises have been associated, either with the elite in society, or the older generation, so a cruise holiday was not seen as suitable for either families or young people. However, there has recently been a renaissance in cruise holidays, so now anyone can take a cruise.

Some cruise lines offer cruise holidays that are particularly aimed at families. On board there will be children’s clubs and activities, as well as facilities that all the family can enjoy.

For those who are more interested in the culture and history of the places that they visit, there are cruises that are designed to appeal more to adults. These will frequently run courses in wine tasting, local history or art, and may offer cruises to some more exotic locations such as South America or the Far East. Cruises to Alaska or the Arctic Circle are also popular. The Arctic would be impossible to visit any other way, as going ashore is strictly controlled in order to preserve the fragile ecosystem. The cruises offer an opportunity to see some unique wildlife, and to gain an understanding of the scientific work carried out at the base camps.

With more young people choosing to take cruise holidays, cruise lines have designed cruises to suit people who want more excitement and activities. Royal Caribbean Cruises’s Voyager-class ships are equipped with ice-skating rinks, rock-climbing walls and the FlowRider – a powerful wave that can be surfed. Carnival cruises offer survival adventures in Belize, on which passengers can learn to cook jungle-style. P&O Cruises offers its travellers the chance to hire a Ferrari F430 for a day in Alicante, or a bike ride for a cheaper option. Princess Cruises offers zip-wiring through trees, and in Alaska this can be combined with a bobsled ride.

Other types of cruise holidays include cruise weddings or honeymoons, river cruises, Christmas cruises, mini cruises and many more. Cruise and stay holidays offer the chance to combine a cruise with a hotel stay.

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If you are considering taking a cruise at some point and you have started looking for something suitable, you may well have come across Baltic cruises. These are quite unique because the Baltic Sea is mostly inland, surrounded by various European countries including Poland, Sweden and Germany.  This gives you an ideal chance to explore Europe on a cruise that will enable you to see lots of countries in one go.

What are typical Baltic cruises like?  A good example comes from Princess Cruises and it lasts for fourteen nights.  When you leave the UK you will go and visit destinations in Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Russia, Norway and Estonia.  As you can see, Baltic cruises really pack in the destinations and because the countries are relatively close together, huddled round the Baltic Sea, you can visit a lot of places in a short space of time.

Because of where the Baltic Sea lies, you can also enjoy a full seven day cruise to this part of the world when you leave from the UK.  Even a week long cruise can take you to four different countries, as some examples from Fred Olsen Cruise Lines and other providers demonstrate.

Just because many Baltic cruises take in the same countries though, don’t assume they all stop at the same ports. Always find out where they are stopping so you can choose the best cruise itinerary for you. Fourteen days allows for a lot more exploration than seven, so it may suit you better to book a longer cruise.

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Barbados, Havana, Montego Bay, the Cayman Islands… the names and locations of various exotic destinations for Caribbean cruises offer up some obvious clues why so many people opt for a cruise to the Caribbean. The Caribbean has long been a measure of luxury for many people. But you normally have to endure the stress of airports, long flights and many hours travel to get there.

With Caribbean cruises the journey is very different.  You can begin to relax as soon as you are on board. You will start to enjoy your holiday long before you reach your destination, and once you are there you are ready to explore without that jet lagged feeling.

When you take a Caribbean cruise you will be able to see more than just one location. Many cruises are available for seven or fourteen nights, with some going to eighteen nights or more as well. For instance a typical two week long cruise offered by Thomson Cruises takes you to various locations within the Caribbean, including Havana, Bridgetown, Kingston and Montego Bay.

In fact if you have always wanted to visit the Caribbean, a cruise is by far the best way to do it. You can explore all kinds of locations in the area without having to worry about getting from A to B. You will also benefit from enjoying the same accommodation throughout, without moving your luggage from place to place. What better way could there be to enjoy the delights of the Caribbean?

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In the early days of considering cruise holidays, you’ll probably start by picturing many of the conventionally lovely routes, like Caribbean cruises, Mediterranean cruises or Far East cruises. But it may be worth taking a closer look at the increasing number of Baltic cruises now available.

If you take this option, you’ll not only get to see some of the most beautiful architecture in the world, including authentic medieval art galleries and superb museums, but your ship will also take you up close to some of the most stunningly spectacular archipelagos on earth. They’ll simply take your breath away as you meander past. Baltic cruises are also ideal for anyone in search of a no-fly option, with many Baltic itineraries starting from ports in the UK.

The Baltic region is immense, so there are numerous different itineraries to choose from. You could try a Russian Baltic cruise, stopping at St Petersburg with its infamous ‘onion domed’ architecture. Or dock in the enchanting city of Stockholm on a Swedish Baltic cruise, where you’ll be immersed in jaw-droppingly beautiful architecture and surrounded by cafes and shops galore. Baltic cruises in Denmark will take you to the magnificent city of Copenhagen, where you’ll see the movingly beautiful statue of Hans Christian Anderson’s ‘Little Mermaid’ staring wistfully out to sea from her rock.

Cruise lines offering Baltic cruises include P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises and Costa Cruises. These cruises provide ample proof that traditional choices like the Caribbean and the Med, most certainly don’t have a monopoly on beauty.

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How many of us have had holiday nightmares, when we’ve discovered, horribly too late, that the brochure’s white sanded beaches are actually a grubby, building site grey, the ‘marvellous, family-sized’ hotel pool would struggle to accommodate a few goldfish, and the ‘food included in the price’ deal turns out to be worse than that kebab van you’re strangely drawn to after a few beers? If you’re fed up with the hit and miss of resort vacations, give a little thought to cruise holidays.

You really don’t have to be wealthy and retired in order to take cruises. Big operators like P&O Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Carnival Cruises and Costa Cruises have spent a great deal of effort diversifying the cruise experience to attract young travellers, young families and modest incomes. Their fleet vessels range from the cosy and small to the lavish and spectacular.

An older couple whose kids have safely flown the coup may prefer a smaller vessel, with the more personal and intimate atmosphere. But young adults and parents with young kids may want to try the bigger ships with their spectacular attractions – multiple pools, water skiing courses, water parks, rock climbing walls and ice rinks, to name but a few of the options some of the attractions to choose from. Check out the vessels (and the prices) on the company websites (look at Thomson Cruises and Princess Cruises, too). Whether you’re seeking Mediterranean cruises, Caribbean cruises, or mini-cruises; Far East cruises, Red Sea cruises or Baltic cruises, you’ll find excellent cruise deals all the year round. Even if you’re after that eleventh hour, last minute cruises.

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Who hasn’t dreamed of visiting the Caribbean? With so many place to visit how do you decide which one you will end up holidaying at? One solution would be to go on a Caribbean Cruise.

With so many ports of call you will have plenty to occupy your time, allowing you several hours or even full days in some cases at each destination. The itinerary will vary depending on which cruise company you travel with but most cruises take in the popular towns and cities of the Caribbean on islands such as St Kitts, St Lucia and Jamaica.

Apart from spending time on the beautiful beaches, you could also take advantage of some of the land based activities like horse riding and jeep safaris, or even take a dip in the sea and go scuba diving or snorkelling. Each island is unique so embarking on a Caribbean Cruise is the most ideal way to get a small taste of the varying cultures and traditions each has to offer.

You can even choose a cruise and stay holiday, where you cruise for part of the time and enjoy several days break in one place for the rest of the holiday.

Many companies are offering Caribbean cruises; Royal Caribbean Cruises and Thomson Cruises are just two of the most popular ones. On board entertainment will vary depending on which company you decide to cruise with but with such variety on offer there will be something to please everyone.

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Any experienced cruiser will know that guided shore excursions often come at a price that is higher than the fee charged by local operators. Therefore, if you are about to embark on your first cruise holiday, it could be well worth finding out when and where to go it alone.

If a city is listed as a destination on your cruise and stay holiday, it will prove a lot cheaper to go sightseeing on your own or with an independent tour guide. Tour buses won’t be hard to come by and many cities around the world now adopt the ‘hop-on hop-off’ bus ticket system that makes getting around all the attractions hassle free. On Caribbean, Mediterranean and Red Sea cruises, the cruise company will often have arranged ‘beach tours’ to one of the islands or the coast. In most cases, it will be considerably cheaper and easier to take a local bus to the beach by yourself.

At some point in the course of the voyage, newcomers to cruise holidays should take at least one organised tour, just to see what they are all about. In more exotic locations, where you may not be able to cope without some knowledge of the language, sticking with the organised party will ensure that you don’t run into any problems. Something else that should be taken into consideration is that fact that, when you are spending a day ashore, without a guide, it will be up to you to get back to the ship at the designated time.

If you do your research and plan your personal shore excursions thoroughly, there is no reason why you won’t have a great shore experience.

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Bermuda cruises have often been associated with newlyweds and senior travellers, but the island is becoming an increasingly popular destination for adventurers and party seekers. With its idyllic atmosphere, golden beaches and beautiful clear waters it is hardly surprising this is one of the most sought after locations for a cruise holiday, which is full of activities and attraction that will appeal to anyone’s taste.

Part of the reason Bermuda has opened up as a more varied cruise route is that the island has recently changed the regulations on what size of ship scan pull into port. Large cruise vessels also used to be subject to a minimum three-night stay.

With the wealth of inspiring sights in Bermuda, it would be fair to say that you will want to spend as many days as possible. A must is the Bermuda Aquarium and Crystal Caves, where you can discover the unique range of captivating land and sea creatures that inhabit the island and surrounding waters.

Real explorers should consider the Bermuda Triangle Shipwreck Snorkel or Scuba Diving Adventure, which can take you to some amazing undersea sights. One of the highlights is the French frigate, L’Herminie, which sank off the Bermudan coast in 1838 and still has its cannons intact. Alternatively, if you would prefer to stay dry, you can still explore the seabed from the comfort of glass-bottom boat.

Of course, this is only a small introduction to what’s on offer and you can be certain that you will not run of things do on this inspiring island.

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One captivating region in Northern Europe is the Baltic Sea region. The countries forming the Baltic Sea region – Denmark, Sweden, Latvia, Finland, Norway, Poland, Russia, Estonia, Germany, and Lithuania – are very promising for a European tour and Baltic cruise. A region with rich traditions and exciting history, Baltic cruises will surely give you a very memorable experience in Northern Europe.

You will not be disappointed with the wonderful scenery that you’ll get to encounter when you go on a Baltic cruise. Sailing Northern Europe by luxury ship will appeal to your senses as you experience this wonderful journey. Vikings flourished here and St. Petersburg is nearby – Baltic cruises will surely fill your travelling appetite.

One of the places that the Baltic Sea region boasts is Gothenburg. Not only does this place boast of its architectural structures like the Gothenburg Opera House, it is also famous for what the famous opera house has to offer – the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra, one of the finest when it comes to classical music.

Baltic cruises also offer you the best of both sea and space. While in Russia, you can visit the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre. You may also try the docking simulator with the Soyuz-TM space vehicle.

If you want to indulge in medieval architecture then Tallinn is the place to go. You’ll find 21st century boutiques on cobblestone roads, and the 13th century Toompea Castle.

Some popular companies that offer Baltic cruises are Royal Caribbean International, P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Princess Cruises. A passenger can also choose to either fly and cruise or cruise from a UK port.

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On the first day of your maiden cruise, when you arrive at the pier you will see that everyone will be checking in luggage before they board. This system works much like airport check-ins and it could be hours before you see your checked baggage arrive at your quarters. Therefore, packing essential items in your carry-on luggage is highly recommended.
 
If your cruise holiday is departing in the afternoon, it is vital that you carry on any items you will need until at least dinner. Sun tan lotion, bathing suits, medication, toiletries and a change of clothes will all come in handy, especially if there is any delay with your baggage.

What many first-time cruisers may not be aware of is the dress codes that are followed on the ship. Each traveller is notified in advance as to what attire will be required for evening meals etc. Some nights are black-tie affairs, while others are informal, indicating a dress or trouser suit for women and a jacket/slacks combination for men. There are varying levels of ‘casual’ dress and it is vital that you pack accordingly, as dress codes can vary throughout the trip.

With some cruise companies, it is also possible to bring your own alcohol on board, but this is usually limited to a bottle of champagne or wine. As regards sporting equipment, such as goggles, golf clubs etc., many of these items can be rented on board, so it may be worth checking to see how much they charge.

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