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Cruise holidays are one of the fastest-growing sectors of the tourism industry, with around 36 million passengers predicted to choose a cruise holiday in 2024. Research shows that an estimated 85 percent of travellers who have tried a cruise holiday would happily do it again, and yet there are still plenty of misconceptions floating around to deter would-be cruise converts:
Photo credit: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Reality: Far from it! Cruise ships are designed to cater to diverse interests, offering every possible distraction from Broadway-style shows and fine dining restaurants to water parks and rock-climbing walls. When your ship is in port, you’ll be spoiled for choice all over again, with a vast range of shore excursions on offer as well as the option to find your own adventure. It’s important to choose a ship and itinerary that suits your preferred type of holiday and level of activity – many of our personal travel managers are CLIA-accredited cruise experts who are world-class experts at tailoring cruise holidays to suit their individual clients. Most cruise ships provide their passengers with WI-FI service so you can cheerfully inflict a little FOMO on your friends and family back home.
Savour in fine-dining cuisines aboard Oceania Cruises
Reality: One of our favourite features of a cruise holiday is the vast array of culinary experiences on offer, from elegant fine dining restaurants to casual buffets and speciality eateries. With award-winning chefs at the helm, cruise ship menus often showcase regional specialties based on the destinations they are visiting. Because of the incredible variety of dining options, cruise holidays are a great option if you’re travelling with kids – there’s sure to be something that will tempt even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re enjoying a gourmet meal under the stars or celebrating a special event in a private dining room, every meal will be a memorable part of your overall travel experience.
Reality: You’ve probably heard this saying before, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. Cruises cater to all age groups, offering diverse activities for families, couples, and solo travellers. From kids’ clubs to adults-only areas, modern cruise ships are designed to create experiences that will appeal to every type of passenger – you can even opt for a themed cruise or a cruise that is completely kids-free! A cruise is a great option if you’re planning a multi-generational holiday – family members can indulge their individual interests but still enjoy plenty of quality time together as a group. From surf simulators to roller coasters, craft brewery tours to cocktail-making classes, if you can imagine it, chances are, there’s a cruise ship that can provide it.
Reality: This may seem true for some options at first glance, but when you compare the cost of a cruise – with all of its inclusions – with a different style of holiday, it starts to make pretty good financial sense. In many cases, your cruise holiday will include the cost of your transport, accommodation, meals and entertainment, all of which is prepaid before you start your holiday. It’s also important to compare the inclusions between cruise lines – for example cruises where even your shore excursions are included vs cruises with the essentials provided at a cheaper upfront cost, with everything else an optional extra. When you break those costs down to a per-day figure, you’ll realise just what incredible value a cruise holiday can be. Many cruise lines also offer early-bird or repeat passenger discounts – ask your personal travel manager to keep you informed.
Reality: Modern cruise ships are designed with passenger comfort in mind. As a result, you’ll find there are numerous, spacious, public spaces to choose from, as well as multiple dining options and a huge range of onboard activities. Curl up with a good book in the ship’s library, treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment or find a quiet corner of the deck where you can gaze up at the night sky.
Some of the smaller, luxury cruise ships carry less than 100 passengers, while some bigger ships can carry thousands. That’s why it’s so important to work with a cruise master – our personal travel managers can help you decide which cruise is right for you, based on a variety of factors such as cruise line, ship size, cabin type and itinerary.
Reality: Modern cruise ships are equipped with advanced stabiliser systems that are designed to minimise motion, and bigger ships are generally more stable in rough seas. Your personal travel manager can help you choose a cabin that is well located to further reduce the risk of seasickness. In many cases, your ship will be in port during the days, moving to the next destination overnight when passengers are safely tucked up in their beds. There’s a wide variety of seasickness medication and remedies that you can pack for your holiday so that you’re well prepared for a worst-case scenario. And if you opt for a river cruise, you’ll enjoy smooth sailing for the entire duration of your holiday.
Reality: The days of dressing in your best tuxedo or diamonds for the evening meal is mostly a thing of the past, although you can still opt for this style of luxury cruising if that’s your preference. Daytime attire is usually quite casual, with swimwear reserved for pool areas and practicality dictating your fashion choices if you’re venturing ashore. Some cruise lines have designated formal nights, while others embrace a resort-casual or smart-casual dress code for evening dining.
A solo cruise is an excellent holiday choice
Reality: A cruise holiday offers a blend of social engagement and personal freedom that is based entirely on your appetite for company. Onboard activities, communal dining options, and onboard events are a fun way to connect with fellow passengers and forge new friendships. However, if you’re seeking solitude, there are plenty of quiet spaces for relaxation and self-reflection. As a solo traveller, it’s entirely up to you to engage in as many or as few social interactions as you prefer. Additionally, the secure and communal atmosphere that’s commonly a feature on cruise ships makes for a safe and comfortable environment if you’re travelling solo. Some cruise lines are now also creating dedicated solo cabins which are more cost effective if you are travelling on your own.
Beautiful Santorini, Greece
Reality: Shore excursions are designed to provide a seamless way to explore the culture, history, and natural wonders of each port of call. Whether it’s a guided city tour, an adventurous hiking expedition, or a cultural immersion activity, there’s sure to be something that will suit your interests. Of course, you don’t have to join an organised shore excursion – some of the best cruise holiday memories are created by simply diving into a destination and seeing where the adventure takes you.
Reality: The world of cruise holidays is as diverse as the destinations they explore, offering a wide spectrum of experiences to suit every type of traveller. From luxury cruise ships that pamper their guests with lavish amenities and personalised service, to adventure-packed expedition cruises that navigate the most remote corners of the globe (and sometimes both at the same time), it’s up to you to choose which one is right for you. If you’re longing for a tropical holiday, opt for a Caribbean cruise or perhaps you’d like to treat the family to the unique magic of a Disney cruise. There are even specialised, themed cruises, such as culinary or wellness-focused voyages, so you can indulge your passions or learn a new skill while at sea. There is a cruise out there for everyone, it’s just about finding the one that’s right for you.
Cruise holidays offer an entire world of incredible travel experiences, with the added convenience of only having to unpack once while exploring multiple destinations. The variety of cruise styles, from family-friendly to luxury and expedition cruises, ensures there’s a perfect fit for every traveller – your personal travel manager can help you choose the one that’s best for you.
We at Travel Managers Australia recognise the traditional owners of the country where we live and work. We recognise and celebrate the diversity of Indigenous people and their enduring cultures and connections to the land and waters of New South Wales.
