Cruise Holidays - Attheta Travel

Just off the northern coast of Venezuela in the Southern Caribbean, the ABC Islands – Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao – are unique and beautiful cruise destinations. Part of the Netherlands, the islands have spectacular weather all year long, with average temperatures in the 80s and little rain; and, they are out of the path of most Atlantic hurricane systems. This small line of islands doesn't precisely follow its “ABC” nickname: from west to east, they are Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire. Aruba is dotted with cacti forests and fringed with white sand beaches on the sheltered western and southern coasts.  After docking in Oranjestad, take an excursion to lovely Eagle Beach or Palm Beach, where you can try out some water sports. Aruba offers great snorkeling for everyone from beginners through experts (experts should check out the catamaran tour to the wreck of the Antilla, a German freighter from World War II).  Many visitors are also attracted to Oranjestad’s...

The cruise industry loves returning passengers, and cruise lines work hard to ensure that you can have a new experience each time you cruise. In fact, while 2015 has just begun, they are already working on new itineraries, destinations and ships that will delight you during 2016. Disney Cruise Line is planning to call on two new Caribbean destinations in 2016: the idyllic islands of Tortola and Martinique. Tortola is known for calm waters that make it perfect for beach and sailing excursions; Martinique has an enchanting blend of French and Caribbean culture, plus stunning views from volcanic Mont Pelée. Norwegian Cruise Line will add San Juan, Puerto Rico, as a seasonal homeport for the Norwegian Gem, which will sail seven-day itineraries in the Southern Caribbean from late October to early December 2016. In the Western Caribbean, NCL’s new island destination of Harvest Caye, Belize, will be ready to welcome guests. Some new ships will debut during 2016, providing new onb...

Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year; add a day or two before or after, and you’ll have time to whisk your valentine away on a romantic cruise! Let’s face it: cruises are inherently romantic, in part because they take you away from the daily routine. You’ll have a comfortable stateroom for two, with stewards to make the bed and fill the ice bucket for you. You can also enjoy swimming pools and hot tubs, sundecks, spa treatments, fine dining, cozy lounges and more. Your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert will help you personalize your Valentine’s Day cruise experience, starting with your stateroom; you may wish to upgrade to a room with balcony so you can enjoy fresh sea breezes and expansive views. And, some ships offer special “ship within a ship” accommodations, with private areas for relaxation. Many ships offer specialty restaurants as an alternative to the main dining room; ask your Cruise Holidays expert how you can reserve a private table for two. A cou...

Cruise Holidays recently conducted a survey of its agencies across North America, asking its cruise experts to use actual client booking data to help identify trends in cruise travel. We previously looked at the most popular destinations nationally and internationally; now, let’s look at the most popular ships, based on bookings for 2015. 1.      Independence of the Seas , Royal Caribbean. This ship’s recent $7 million refurbishment added digital signage that makes it easier to find your way around the 3,600-passenger ship; a cupcake shop; an Italian restaurant; and a nursery for the youngest guests. Royal Caribbean’s signature entertainment features, including a surfing simulator and ice skating rink, make the ship a great choice for families. 2.      Oasis of the Seas , Royal Caribbean. First launched in 2009 with an innovative “neighborhoods” concept, this 5,400-passenger ship had a recent overhaul to add some of the dining and techn...