Ask the Captain
My husband and I are considering our first cruise. We are thinking about a one week Caribbean cruise. In looking at the brochures, they all seem to offer beaches, entertainment and lots of food. How do we pick the right cruise? Patrice S. Port Charlotte, Florida.
The Captain feels your pain. But in reality, a good cruise specialist can help you distill your choices into a manageable number. They will first ask you some questions about your interests – things like are you more of a “late night party couple” than a “relax with a good book in a quiet corner” traveler? Like to dress up? Or not? Shopping more important than beaches or vice versa? You get the picture. Not all ships are created equal and in the Caribbean alone there are more than 40 to choose from. So, before you start to pack, make sure you speak with a cruise expert. And the good news is that cruise agents don’t charge you for their planning services – they get paid a commission by the cruise lines so your cost is the same whether you book directly or take advantage of their expert advice.
Is the extra cost of a balcony cabin worth it? Susan D. Wharton, NJ
Pardon the pun, but the Captain thinks it depends on your point of view. And that’s the point of a balcony – the view – isn’t it. While it is true that on the ship you are literally surrounded by water, wouldn’t it be nice to have your own private place to soak in the sun and the lovely ocean views. Breakfasting in your robe on the patio is just a part of the fun! You will be surprised that upgrading from an ocean view cabin to a balcony stateroom is not a huge amount when considered on a per day basis. If you ask veteran cruisers if they would go back to a non-balcony cabin they overwhelmingly say “No Way”.
My partner is a Type A and I am a Type B person. He is afraid he would be bored on a cruise so we have not tried it yet? Give me some ammunition to convince him. Kathy G. Omaha, NB
The Captain can give you enough ammo to turn both of you into Type C (cruiser) personalities. That’s the beauty of a modern cruise ship. There is range of non-stop activities and programs running almost 24/7 ranging from extensive gym and work out facilities to casinos and everything in between. And yet, there is plenty of time to relax with a good book in a quiet corner. And if that is not enough, the ship will be in port about 75% of the time which offers another whole set of options. Tell him to start packing!
Have a cruise question for our Captain? Email us at jewart@cruiseplanners.com