Spring break – that week or two each spring when many schools, from kindergarten through college, take a break from classes – has become a popular time to cruise. While spring break schedules vary by school, they usually take place in March or April, when much of North America is still emerging from winter.
For many
spring break cruisers, especially those who have one week off, that means the
best destination choices are warm-weather places close to the U.S. For example,
The Bahamas, just 80 miles or so off Florida’s Atlantic coast, is a very
popular option. Several cruise lines offer three- and four-night cruises, which
fit neatly into a week-off schedule.
More options
for spring break cruises include three- to five-night cruises to either the
Caribbean coast or the Pacific coast of Mexico. Cruises to Mexico’s beachy Caribbean
ports may include stops in Progreso (near Mérida and Chichén Itzá), Cozumel,
Cancún or Riviera Maya. On Mexico’s mountainous Pacific coast, port calls may include
Ensenada, Mazatlán, Acapulco, or Cabo San Lucas.
It’s also
possible to enjoy a spring break cruise in the Mediterranean, especially if you
have two weeks off. There are a few Mediterranean cruises of three to five nights,
but you’ll have more options to choose from if you can cruise for at least
seven nights.
In
addition to destinations, spring breaker cruisers should think about the kind
of onboard vibe they’re looking for. There are at least two unofficial categories
of spring break cruises: family-oriented cruises that cater to kids and their adults,
and party-oriented cruises that provide young adults with lots of fun. College-age
cruisers may want to consider a line like Virgin Voyages, which has a minimum
passenger age of 18. And while Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are
family-oriented, they are also known for having lots of entertainment and
nightlife on board. For a family-oriented cruise, you can also look to Disney
Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and more.
For
college-age cruisers, it’s important to carefully check age requirements before
booking. Many cruise lines require passengers under the age of 21 to be accompanied by
someone who is over 21. And, 21 is often the minimum age for ordering and
consuming alcohol on board. Cruise lines strictly enforce their drinking age
policies, and violating them can result in removal from the ship.
For more
advice about spring break cruising and help making reservations, talk with Anita,
your professional travel advisor.
Find
us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel
