The right advice and a little homework can help take the guesswork out of finding the right cruise . . . for you.
So, in today’s Cruising Guide we’ve turned to trusted partners in the cruise industry to help you choose the right cruise ship with the right itinerary, and of course, avoid a costly mistake.
With the array of cruise brands in the market offering their own style, entertainment, cuisines, experiences and destinations it can be a difficult and quite a daunting choice.
Cruising on the wrong type of ship could end up being a lifetime put-off, too.
But, as our experts say, planning a cruise extends well beyond simply the cheapest “deal”.
in the evening. Credit: Harald Nachtmann/Getty Images
Meanwhile, as I’ve witnessed even before the summer peak — the rush to Europe has become more of a stampede. It’s very busy in the cities and (still) one the world’s most popular cruise destinations.
With this in mind we detail what you need to consider before booking a cruise to Europe or one of the myriad cruise destinations of the world. And we weigh up booking well ahead of time (yes, 2027 is already on!) or waiting to snap up a last-minute deal.
So, here are some handy hacks for booking your dream cruise . . .
Have you cruised before?
A prime consideration, as the team at Bicton Travel, and Claremont Cruise & Travel Centre raise, is your preferred cruise style or cruise line preference.
“If you’ve cruised before, what did you enjoy the most and what are you hoping to experience on your next voyage?,” asks Philip Smethurst, director Bicton Travel and Claremont Cruise & Travel Centre.
“Would you want to sail on a similar ship or line, or the same line?”
Further, having a budget in mind will allow you to consider relevant options that fit your finances, without overcommitting.
Where do you want to go?
You will most likely have a preferred destination. But even if not, choosing where to cruise will narrow down the options.
The Mediterranean is among the world’s fastest growing and popular cruise destinations, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) research.
So it is, too, for MSC Cruises with new data showing demand for itineraries to the Mediterranean are up almost 60 per cent for this northern hemisphere winter.
Lisa Teiotu, MSC Cruises managing director Australasia says: “Australians are looking for a holiday option that explores stunning European destinations without the expense and hassle of taking many flights . . . with milder weather to explore the historical sites and cultural delights of the region, we’ve found Australians are really drawn to sailings that offer a taste of the east and west Mediterranean coastline.”
Whichever destination you choose, do check where the port stops are, and for how long (some are overnight) and what’s on the shore excursion agendas — this will give you a feel for the itinerary and whether it’s a good fit. There’s lots of useful information on ships and itineraries in these pages, and online, or ask your cruise consultant for advice.
In most cases shore excursions cost extra, but may be included in the fare if booking with a premium line like Viking or Regent Seven Seas. Luxury line Silversea now offers three fare choices — two include shore excursions and the Essential fare is voyage only.
If you’d rather stay closer to home perhaps consider a choice of shorter sailings from Australia’s east coast with many connections to fantastic local hotspots including Tasmania, Melbourne, Kangaroo Island, North Queensland and the South Pacific.
There are many great-value short cruises with big-ship, family friendly lines Carnival and Royal Caribbean International at various times throughout the year— and they are ideal samplers too for non-cruisers.
Carnival has an expanded program of Australian cruises open for booking for 2025-26 from Sydney and Brisbane. (Its EasyPay system has monthly instalment payments for bookings at least five months in advance.)
Camera IconCamels at sunset at Cable Beach, Broome. Picture Mogens Johansen, The West Australian Credit: Mogens Johansen/The West Australian
If the budget allows, a WA option is the Kimberley, where expedition cruising is booming. Last season was the region’s busiest on record and with high-end brands adding capacity this year the trend looks set to continue.
The classic Kimberley voyage between Broome and Darwin is typically 10 nights. But there’s now even more choice in the region including small ship Australian brands Coral Expeditions, True North and Kimberley Quest.
What style of travel do you prefer?
This question is about understanding customers’ travel history, according to Michael Middleton, general manager of specialist cruise agency My Cruises.
“By ascertaining their style of travel and what’s important to them — this helps match with the right cruise line and right ship,” he says.
“A great knowledge of what each cruise line offers and their style of cruise is critical.”
How you want to experience an itinerary is also crucial, says Bicton Travel’s Philip Smethurst: “Are you looking for a highly active itinerary with lots of excursions and (a) chance to get off the ship? Or are you more interested in a ‘flop and drop’ holiday where relaxation and pampering are your top priority, allowing you to truly unwind?
Related to style is considering whether a themed cruise would best suit. These cover a multitude of special interests such as culinary; literature; sport; science; comedy and others, tapping into travellers’ specific passions with activities like talks, Q&As, workshops and performances.
Others, like Royal Caribbean’s Wiggly Adventure sailings from the east coast in 2025-26, or a Disney cruise, are designed to captivate young families wanting some fun and escapism.
For travellers wanting a more “active” experience, perhaps consider one of the many interesting expedition itineraries available. These are voyages geared for rugged, high-intensity immersion in a destination and focused on a special interest such as science, wild landscapes, conservation, wildlife and culture.
Coral Expeditions commercial director Jeff Gillies says there are many factors to consider in recommending the right expedition cruise itinerary.
“We will normally ask guests if they have done expedition cruising before and explain a little about the style — more active and immersive, deeper destination content and connection,” he says.
“We then will ask what is important for them in areas like natural encounters, active trekking, snorkel or dive preferences, flora and fauna, interests in geology or the history and heritage of the landscape. This will help us narrow down destination itineraries that may be more appealing.”
Jeff says there are then time-of-year considerations.
“For example, whether you want to see the Kimberley in April when the waterfalls are raging or if you would like the milder weather and the whale migration of August/September,” he says.
What type of ship?
While ships pushing 20 years of age and older continue to serve strongly, we’re seeing an exciting, and rapid, evolution as new ships enter the market.
And that means better entertainment, dining and cuisine, high-end wellness and beauty services, comfort, convenience, luxury appointments and more sustainable operations. And that has sparked a new generation of cruisers.
The latest data from the industry’s peak body Cruise Lines International Association shows the average age of cruisers is 46 (36 per cent under the age of 40) with millennials accounting for 22 per cent of all cruisers.
And it seems just about anything that can be done on land is now possible on the high seas. There are, for example, spectacular live shows under glass-domed arenas on some new ships. There’s also fine dining and exclusive resort-style accommodations, to name a few highlights.
But this doesn’t mean the end of the more traditional on-board activities — depending on the ship you can still grab a slab of pizza out on deck and dine by the pool; play deck games; take part in fitness classes and yoga sessions; watch films; or attend lectures; and so much more.
So there is a ship to suit most styles and budgets across the demographic spectrum — solo travellers, couples, families and multigenerational.
The newer ships such as Celebrity’s Edge class, and Princess’ Sphere class feature luxury interiors and amenities, but also combine big ship vibe, topnotch entertainment and fine-dining.
Philip says he considers the type of atmosphere aboard that would suit clients best.
“Your time on holiday is precious so . . . are you looking for a relaxed casual atmosphere on board, or do you prefer a more refined setting with an emphasis on gourmet food and wine?,” he asks.
“Are you more drawn to a large ship with lots of activities and entertainment options on board? Or do you prefer a smaller vessel for a more boutique experience, or an itinerary that visits lesser-known ports that the large ships can’t reach?”
Single occupant cruising is part of the solo travel trend of the last few years. As a result we’ve seen cruise line investments and initiatives to cater for this growing market segment.
However, services differ markedly from cruise line to cruise line, even ship to ship.
Norwegian Cruise Line reports demand from solo travellers has risen over several years. In response to this demand it has rolled out 1000 more cabins that can be sold as single-occupancy staterooms across its fleet, that are available at a reduced rate for solo cruisers. It has also introduced new solo cabin categories — Solo Inside, Oceanview and Balcony.
Catering for singles is more than just making more rooms available. Look for organised social activities and events for singles — meet-ups, hosted dinners, happy hours, exclusive lounge access and the like.
It’s also worth looking out for discounts on solo rates, or single supplement waivers, which can offer significant savings. Coral Expeditions has removed the solo supplement on most sailings for the remainder of 2024, and select cruises in 2025.
French line Ponant also has free solo supplement deals on a vast range of expeditions, including to the polar regions and Kimberley. The solo deal also applies to voyages in the South Pacific on its subsidiary line Paul Gauguin Cruises.
Booking early versus last minute
The Bicton Travel team say they are seeing more earlybird specials from cruise lines, meaning more savings for organised travellers booking cruises 12 to 18 months in advance.
“These are proving to be the best offers available,” Philip says.
“My advice is simple: if you find a cruise you love at a price you like, book it.
“With the popularity of cruising only growing, you’re almost guaranteed to get the best deal on the best routes and with your cabin of choice when you book earlier.”
It is sound advice given, as industry research proves, the world is cruising again. And at higher levels than pre-pandemic.
The most recent CLIA data shows 31.7 million passengers sailed on a cruise in 2023 — that’s 107 per cent of 2019 levels — and the forecast for this year is 34.7 million.
Philip goes on to say booking early affords time to organise flights and pre or post-cruise travel arrangements. And, of, course, the peace of mind of securing your favoured ship, cabin and itinerary choice.
“While last-minute deals can be enticing and there can be some great deals to be snapped up, they come with uncertainty,” he says. There’s no guarantee on getting the cabin or the location on the ship you prefer. And generally, popular itineraries and destinations will sell out.”
Conversely, if you’re flexible with dates of travel and are not specific in your choice of ship or itinerary, Philip says there’s a better chance of securing a deal. (It’s a good way to squeeze in an extra trip or two during the year for less.)
But he recommends reading the fine print for what is and is not included.
“My advice is to also look closer at the what’s included in any ‘deal’, as often these fares have less inclusions, or require you to travel on out of season dates for a particular destination,” Philip says.
In terms of booking ahead, we’re seeing cruise sales opening up as far out as 2027 and there’s plenty of bookable itineraries for 2026.
Luxury line Silversea opened its The Three Oceans World Cruise 2027 for bookings in late June. This 149-day voyage will call at 80 destinations including 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites in 35 countries. The intimate Silver Dawn departs Los Angeles on January 8, 2027, and ends in Copenhagen on June 7. There are 11 overnight stays and some of the destinations including Langebaan, South Africa; Hambantota, Sri Lanka; and San Sebastian, Spain, are only accessible to small ships.
Cruise Extensions
Pre and post-cruise extensions are popular with Australians and can help round out the cruise experience, according to Philip.
“The addition of a coach tour, or perhaps a self-driving itinerary or a short stay in a luxury resort can enhance your holiday and allow you to fully explore the destination,” he says.
He recommends arriving at least a day before the cruise if flying to an Australian departure port, and at least two days prior if flying internationally just in case there’s an unforeseen flight cancellation or other transit delay.
So, if time permits it’s a good way to see more while you wait for your cruise, utilising time effectively and boarding (hopefully) in a relaxed state.
There’s the option to arrange extensions independently, or perhaps compare extension packages offered by cruise lines.
Check carefully what the pricing includes first — generally extensions include hotel accommodation, some meals, guided tours and transfers.
+ Viking
Luxury line Viking says about 45 per cent of guests choose to add before and after extensions to their voyage and that they’re increasingly popular with travellers.
Its fully guided, three-night Europe extensions are available in Barcelona, Istanbul, London, Rome, Stockholm and Venice, and are designed to showcase city highlights and bring you closer to the local culture.
In Barcelona explore the picturesque mountain landscape and views over the Catalan countryside at Montserrat outside the city, and visit the iconic Gaudi-designed La Sagrada Familia on this pre-cruise extension.
Or in Rome stroll vibrant piazzas, visit Vatican City and its museums and see the sights of ancient Rome post-cruise, including the Colosseum and Circus Maximus.
Australia, Asia, Japan, North and South America also feature in Viking’s extensions program.
+ Norwegian Cruise Line
NCL continues to expand its Cruisetours program, that can be taken before or after select sailings.
The line has added Lisbon, Portugal, to its burgeoning portfolio of Cruisetour destinations which include 11 European ports.
The Cruisetours can be combined with various ships and multiple departures at a packaged price. For instance, the 11-day Mediterranean voyage to Italy, France and Spain departs Lisbon, Portugal, and can be combined with the Explore Lisbon Cruisetour of four days and three nights pre-cruise.
Explore Lisbon offers a choice of five ships including NCL’s latest flagship — the 2023-launched Norwegian Viva. The visits include Belem quarter, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the World Heritage-listed Jeronimos Monastery dating to the 16th century and considered the epitome of Manueline architecture.
The four-day, three-night Tower of London and Garden of England Cruisetour runs through to October 2025 and includes guided tours of Stonehenge, the Tower of London, a Thames cruise and Dover Castle on a day sightseeing in pretty county Kent.
NCL Cruisetours are also available in other destinations including Cape Town, South Africa; the Middle East; the Americas; Asia; and other European ports.
An NCL spokesperson says there will be more destinations added to the portfolio.
Carnival Corporation’s decision to streamline its operations by folding the 90-year-old P&O Cruises Australia brand into Carnival Cruise Line will hit WA’s cruise tourism sector, in the short term at least.
As part of Carnival’s “strategic shift” Pacific Explorer will exit the fleet in March next year meaning the loss to Fremantle of its only homeported ship.
The ship runs short cruises from Freo up and down the WA coast during its annual autumn season.
Despite the impending loss of Explorer, Tourism Western Australia remains confident it can achieve targets as documented in its WA Cruise Tourism Strategic Plan 2023-33. The plan aims to secure new cruise lines to visit the State, expand the itineraries of existing cruise ships already visiting WA, and secure two homeported vessels per year for Fremantle.
“Tourism WA will continue to build positive relationships with Carnival, including discussing potentially locating of one of their rebranded Carnival ships in Fremantle, and other cruise lines, to attract more vessels including seasonal homeported vessels to our coastline,” a TWA spokesperson says.
The schedules of P&O’s other two ships — east coast-based Encounter and Adventure — are already locked in until mid-2026 and will begin operating under the Carnival brand from early next year.
So, Fremantle will be without a homeported vessel for at least the next two years unless another line commits to operating seasonal local voyages in the meantime.
“As deployments beyond those published are planned, itineraries in all markets are reviewed which will include exploring possibilities in Fremantle, however, Western Australia is an expensive region to operate in,” a Carnival Corporation spokesperson tells me.
Tourism WA says the upcoming 2024-25 season has 27 cruise ships from 13 cruise lines, including six Carnival brands, scheduled to visit Fremantle Port.
“This includes eight maiden port calls. Some of these will be transit calls, while others will provide for the embarkation of guests in Fremantle for onward journeys, providing a range of cruising options for West Australians,” the spokesperson says.
Carnival Corporation chief executive Josh Weinstein pinned the decision to consolidate its operations on the region’s small population and significantly higher operating and regulatory costs.
“We’re adjusting our approach to give us the efficiencies we need to continue delivering an incredible cruise experience year-round to our guests in the region,” he says.
Source link : http://www.bing.com/news/apiclick.aspx?ref=FexRss&aid=&tid=66b463f87a7c43588e5ccc33396d5056&url=https%3A%2F%2Fthewest.com.au%2Ftravel%2Flaying-the-foundations-for-the-cruise-of-a-lifetime-c-15264566&c=12950224129522705297&mkt=en-us
Author :
Publish date : 2024-08-02 07:00:00
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.