Although 12 million people will cruise this year, many other travelers avoid cruises because of one of the 10 myths listed below. Cruising is a wonderful way of taking a holiday so don't let these myths keep you from planning a cruise.....!
1. I will get seasick.
Many people fear seasickness; however, today's cruise ships are very stable and seasickness is a rarity. For those prone to seasickness, there are many remedies available to travelers to alleviate the symptoms.
2. I will get a stomach virus like Norovirus.
Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause gastroenteritis. Getting a flu shot will not prevent contracting a norovirus. Noroviruses can be found almost anyplace with lots of people in close proximity, not just cruise ships. Schools and businesses are also norovirus hotbeds. You can decrease your chance of coming in contact with the Norwalk Virus or norovirus on a cruise ship by washing your hands frequently. All cruise ships actively promote this and are VERY vigilant with alcohol rub readily available
3. Cruises are all-inclusive.
Most cruises are not all-inclusive. In an effort to keep the basic price low, most mainstream cruise lines charge for everything that could be considered "extra", from wine to bottled water. As ships become more creative in their onboard activities, more things come at a price. However, the basic cruise fare still includes room, board, and the traditional cruise ship amenities such as a swimming pool and entertainment, so you can cruise and only have to pay for tips and drinks if your choose.
4. I have to dine at assigned times and with people I might not like.
Many cruise ships still feature traditional seating for dinner, with assigned times and tables. However, more and more cruise lines have open seating for dinner, which means you can dine when you like and at different tables. Since today's cruise ships also include alternative dining venues, you can vary your restaurant choices along with your table mates.
5. Cruise ships are crowded.
With the cruise ships being as large as they are now - for example the Oasis of the Seas coming in at a whopping 222,900 gross thousand tonns their really is no need to worry about ships ever feeling too crowded. My advice if this is something you are concerned about is to always ask your cruise agent how big the ship is - my recommendation is to go bigger to ensure you do not feel too claustrophobic.
6. I don't like beaches, so I won't like cruising.
Since most cruises go to the Caribbean, many people associate cruising with this beautiful part of the world. However, a cruise is more than sitting in the sun by the pool, sandy beaches, or sparkling blue waters. Cruise ships visit every continent, and anyone who loves to travel should be able to find a cruise destination that appeals to them. And, you only have to unpack once!
7. Cruise ships are packed with old people.
Many cruisers are senior citizens, but most of these seniors are active, and all of them have amazing stories to tell about their life experiences. A good general rule is the longer and more expensive the cruise, the older the passenger (retired people obviously have more time on there hands!). Fred Olsen is the main cruise line that tends to attract the 55+ market - so just be aware of this. Having said that, I have cruised on the Balmoral with Fred Olsen and I had a wonderful time with lots of other young passengers. If you are looking at Royal Caribbean, P&O, Ocean Village, NCL and Princess, these all are aimed at families, couples and even single travellers alike.
8. Cruise ships are packed with party people.
Most mainstream cruises are marketed to multi-generational families. Although you will find partiers on a cruise ship (myself perhaps being one!), you will also find teetotalers, passengers of all cultures, races, and ages. The one thing all cruisers have in common is a love of travel and having fun, which doesn't necessarily equal wild partying.
9. Cruise ships are dangerous.
Like flying, cruise ships seem to have gotten a bad rap about danger. They are actually very safe, and with over 11 million people cruising each year, the crime rate is very low. There are steps you can take to help ensure a safe cruise vacation.
10. Cruise ships are boring.
Although this is a common fear of non-cruisers, no one should be bored with cruising. You can be as active (or inactive) as you like. Cruise ship activities range from working out in a high-tech gym to sitting on the deck and reading a book. You can learn computer skills, a foreign language. You can enjoy Las Vegas-style entertainment or a classical pianist. Many cruise ships spend all day in port, so you can explore all the fascinating parts of the world. And with new and invative ships that are now around such as Royal Caribbeans Oasis of the Seas with 7 different neighbourhoods onboard, ice skating rinks, rock climbing walls and so so much more you really will be spoiled for choice!
So, with all these points in mind why would you now take a land based holiday?! Cruising is excellent value for money, I dare you to try one soon! Contact me for full professional advice.
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