According
to CLIA’s research, one of the things that motivates people to take a cruise –
in addition to value for their money and positive past cruise experiences – is
their interest in new ships. Disney Cruise Line launched a highly anticipated
new ship this year, its first in more than a decade. The Disney Dream has a terrific watercoaster called the AquaDuck,
redesigned kids’ clubs, and more space dedicated to teens and the electronic
games they love. For adults, a new French restaurant, Remy, has received
excellent reviews.
Oceania
Cruises introduced the Marina, which
carries up to 1,258 passengers, making it about twice as large as the line’s
other ships. Standard staterooms offer numerous amenities and gorgeous marble
baths with separate showers and tubs. But, if you want jaw-droppingly
spectacular accommodations, book a 2,500-square-foot Owner’s Suite, which
features views out both the port and starboard sides of the ship.
The
Celebrity Silhouette joined Celebrity
Cruises’ popular Solstice class of ships, with some new features in and around
the Lawn Club. At the Lawn Club Grill, passengers can select a cut of meat and
grill it themselves with assistance from the Silhouette’s chefs. Eight cabana-style alcoves around the Lawn Club
offer a relaxing spot for to four people each. And, a new Art Studio at the
entrance to the Lawn Club is used for demonstrations and classes in painting,
drawing and mixology.
While
these new ships cruise the oceans of the world, 2011 also saw growing interest
in river cruising, especially along European and Asian rivers such as the Danube,
the Rhine, the Volga, the Yangtze and the Mekong. River cruise ships are
designed to be able to dock in the historic heart of cities and towns not
reachable by ocean cruise ships. And, the design of river cruise ships is
evolving to provide an even better experience for guests. Some ships scheduled
to debut during the next few years promise larger staterooms with full-size
balconies, allowing guests to enjoy every moment of the ever-changing scenery
along the river banks.
For
more information on experiencing the value and fun of cruising in 2012, whether
on an ocean or a river, talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.
