Shorter cruises appeal to lots of
vacationers – and not only those with limited time. There are first-time
cruisers who want to “sample” a sea-going vacation before they commit to a
longer voyage. There are experienced cruisers who want to try out a different
part of the world before exploring it through a longer, more in-depth cruise
itinerary. There are vacationers who rely on the value of a short cruise to
deliver the most for their vacation dollars; and, those who want to pamper
themselves with a brief, luxury-class cruise.
Shorter cruises have become an option
for more vacationers as the number of home ports has expanded. With ports of
embarkation located all along the East Coast, Gulf Coast and Pacific Coast, experts
estimate that half the population of the U.S. lives within driving distance of
a cruise port. Likewise, several cruise ports are an easy drive for residents
of Canadian cities such as Vancouver and Halifax.
The variety of home ports also expands
the list of short-cruise destinations beyond the popular, time-honored choices
of the Bahamas and the Eastern Caribbean. Home ports like Boston, New Orleans,
San Diego and Seattle extend the short-cruise market to places like New England
and Canada, Mexico’s Caribbean coast, the Mexican Riviera, and Alaska.
The increase in shorter cruise
itineraries isn’t limited to the ocean cruise market. River cruise lines are
finding that shorter voyages suit many of their passengers, too. For example, four-
or five-night European River cruises are growing in popularity, especially during
December, when historic European Christmas Markets are open.
For more information on selecting a
short cruise for your next vacation, talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays
personal cruise expert.
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