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Showing posts from June, 2015

New Options in Cruising for 2016

Cruise lines know that cruise fans are always looking for new adventures, and they keep things fresh and exciting by regularly offering new destinations and ships. Here’s a look at some new developments for 2016: Holland America Line will introduce its first new ship since 2010, the Koningsdam , in April. It will be the first in the line’s new Pinnacle class. During its first year, the ship will sail the Mediterranean, the Baltic, and to Iceland before relocating to Port Everglades for Caribbean cruises. The ship will have Holland America’s first purpose-built staterooms for solo travelers and for families, as well as new programming in the Culinary Arts Center. Regent Seven Seas will introduce its latest all-suite luxury ship, the Explorer , on July 20. The ship will increase the line’s fleet capacity nearly 30 percent, but will still be exclusive, with just 750 passengers. They will enjoy six open-seating gourmet restaurants, a nine-deck atrium and a two-story theater. The s...

Which to Choose: An Ocean or a River Cruise?

The world of leisure cruising has expanded in the past few years with new options for ocean and river cruising. Both will take you to interesting ports, but that’s about as far as their similarities go. Their differences are many, providing you with a choice of distinctly wonderful vacation experiences. Ships Ocean cruise ships vary in size, but can have as many as 18 decks and room for more than 6,000 passengers. You can expect multiple stateroom choices, expansive areas for sports and fitness, spas, lounges, theaters, swimming pools, a range of dining venues, and special features like on-board water parks and demonstration kitchens. River cruise ships have three decks at most, accommodate about 200 passengers, and are built to glide beneath the many bridges they encounter. The atmosphere is more like that of an elegant private yacht than the “floating resort” style of an ocean cruise ship. Entertainment, activity and dining options are much more limited, but everything ten...

Where to Cruise from Los Angeles

When planning your next cruise, don’t forget about the wonderful options available out of Los Angeles. More than a dozen cruise lines sail from the World Cruise Terminal (technically located in San Pedro) throughout the year, including Crystal Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean. From Los Angeles, you have a choice of cruise destinations, lengths and styles. For example, it’s a popular port for a quick getaway cruise along the West Coast, featuring ports like the sophisticated city of San Francisco, scenic Monterrey, and relaxed and beautiful Catalina Island. Or, board a ship that sails south to the Mexican Riviera. Popular ports along Mexico’s gorgeous Pacific coast include Puerto Vallarta and its busy beachside boardwalk; Mazatlan, where you can watch adventurous high-divers or experience the thrill of sportfishing; and Cabo San Lucas, where the Pacific mingles with the Sea of Cortez, creating stately rock formations and some...

A Sweet Honeymoon Cruise

After you’ve planned your wedding down the smallest detail and reveled in the day itself, wouldn’t it be great to embark on a cruise? You won’t have to worry about whether the ring bearer will behave, whether the relatives at table 14 will get along or if your lactose-free guests will get the correct meal; you can just relax, enjoy being together, and visit some lovely ports of call. One important consideration is where to cruise. It’s fun to learn about all the possible destinations, but give some serious thought to what you’d like most: spending time on a sandy beach, visiting the ancient sections of Mediterranean cities, or sledding on a glacier, for example. Also, talk about the type of ship you want to sail on: something with lots of entertainment and nightlife, or an elegant vessel with five-star dining? In addition, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert can give you insight into which ships are favored by couples, families, and older voyagers. On top of all ...