Tag: Cruise vacations

Best Value for Money Cruise Lines

by hotelsetc, posted in cruise discounts

Going by industry information, such is the value on offer in terms of cruise discounts, more travelers are preferring to go on cruise vacations. As per estimates, nearly 24 million people had taken cruise vacations around the world in 2016. These numbers are expected to rise in year 2018. As demands for cruise vacations grow, so do choices for travelers. Among a plethora of cruise-vacation offers, how do you choose which one is suitable for you? Well, here we are to help you sort through various options and select the best cruise line for both your budget and vacation needs.

Best Value for Money Cruise Lines

If you are looking for a cruise line which returns best value for your money in 2017, then consider taking Celebrity Cruises. Although it has smaller fleet compared to its rivals, Celebrity’s many ships provide personalized service as it has an average ship-capacity of less than 2,700 passengers. This helps in catering to passengers personally. That does not mean it has any less amenities than big ships. The cruise line also offers all those amenities you would look for in big ships such as open-air movie screens and also kids’ programming. Big amenities, but at lower rates of $100 per traveller, per night. Second option can be Royal Caribbean International or Norwegian Cruise Line which also provides best amenities and value for your money while choosing a cruise vacation

best value

Best Cruise Vacations for Families

When it comes to family cruise vacations, Disney Cruise Line wins hands down against its competitors. It has topped the list of family cruise lines for four successive years. The cruise line is famous for its deck parties based on Disney characters and has a specialized kids’ club, which is sure to keep the younger crowd happy. On the other hand, there are also exclusive areas for adults which provide an excellent place to parents for unwinding after a day of fun-filled activities. Another favorite for family cruises is Royal Caribbean International, which is ranked number 2 and Carnival Cruise Lines with a rank of number 3.

Couples? Here are Best Cruise Lines for You

Whether it is Valentine’s Day or your sweetheart’s birthday; if  you are looking to celebrate by sailing away with your partner, then you can get an enchanting experience on Crystal Cruises. This cruise line has been selected as the top ranking for couples this year. Here, the lovebirds can enjoy all-inclusive, special amenities such as terry cloth robes, feather beds and complimentary spirits and romantic wines. If you want to give a romantic gift to that special person with you, then instead of going for some regular gift, choose couple’s spa treatments or/ and specialty private dining. For those wanting to spend romantic vacations on sea, other recommended cruise lines include Azamara Club Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises that provide best romantic cruise for couples.

couples cruise

Best Cruise Lines for Caribbean Destinations

Nothing compares to emerald waters of Caribbean seas and if you are searching for the best cruises line to Caribbean, then Disney Cruise Line should be your first choice. Two reasons set apart Disney from other cruise liners; first it owns a private island called Castaway Cay (Bahamas) from where its ships set sail. Secondly, it sends ships to not one or two, but more than a dozen Caribbean destinations. These include popular destinations such as Jamaica, Cozumel, Puerto Rico, Mexico and also to lesser-known islands like Curaçao and Grenada. Second rank for Best Caribbean cruise lines goes to Celebrity Cruises and Crystal Cruises is at number 3 if you wish to go on ocean-vacation in 2017 in the Caribbean.

Best Mediterranean Cruise Lines

If you are looking for warmer climate and heavenly food, then Mediterranean shores would appeal to you. For 2017, Celebrity Cruises tops the list of the best Mediterranean cruise lines. The line’s ships are mostly mid-size that travel to popular European ports such as Greece, Santorini and Naples (Italy). These ships will take you to famed Mediterranean destinations where you can explore the waters as well as dine at in-house swank restaurants, which will offer you a wide range of delicacies from French desserts to juicy, tasty steaks. After satisfying your taste buds, you can enjoy the restful hospitality of their comfortable accommodations. The number 2 spot in the list of the best Mediterranean liners in 2017 is occupied by Regent Seven Seas Cruises while Oceania Cruises holds the number 3 rank in this list.

Check out Hotels Etc for all the best cruise vacation discounts and special offers.

Things you can do on a cruise that you did not know about

by hotelsetc, posted in cruises

Cruise vacation deals are becoming more and more popular but not just for the price itself. From five star restaurants to incredible entertainment and activities, there is much more to a cruise than meets the eye. Here are two incredible things to do on a cruise that just about anyone would enjoy:

Enjoy Broadway-styled productions on Cruise Lines

Cruise lines are adapting the changing entertainment scenarios which demands high-tech, dynamic productions, and providing the same high quality of entertainment on board for their travelers. These state-of-the-art ships have assorted features and entertainment choices. These include varieties like surf simulators, ropes courses and even snow rooms as well as ice skating rinks! Beyond these fascinating structures, cruise lines are also reinventing the cruising experience and producing Broadway-like shows on board. These have advanced features such as big lighting, elaborate costumes and contemporary choreography. In fact, Disney Wonder of Disney Cruise Line has already started producing theatrical version of its all-time highest earning animated movie “Frozen” during travels. The movie is presented as a musical show on board. This is just one example of how cruise lines are changing the face of entertainment at sea, and giving their travelers experiences of a life-time in special surroundings. After all, watching a musical in theater is ordinary, but watching “Frozen” come alive on a ship, surrounded by splashing waves is something unique.

cruise entertainment

Another Disney cruise liner, Disney Magic has already been presenting “Tangled: The Musical” on board. This hour-long show contains 7 musical numbers.  Alan Menken, an Academy-award winning music composer has composed 3 new songs for this musical. It is breathtaking to see Rapunzel in the cruise settings; with her 200 feet long golden hair adorning the stage.

Not only Disney cruise lines, but Carnival’s latest ship Carnival Vista also has excellent, on board entertainment varieties, including the first ever IMAX theater cruising at sea. The liner also produces special musical shows, featuring classic rock anthems.

How About Taking a Culinary Cruise?

Who says gourmet dining and celebrity chef-led restaurants cannot be experienced at sea?

You too can enjoy the feast-adventure by taking any of the culinary cruises that have become quite popular in last few years. While restaurants on earth are earning stars for their meals, spirit and excellent wines, now the same experience is also being offered on sea by the best cruise lines through their culinary-themed vacation sailings. Here you can have the same high levels of exclusive meals, wines and enjoy gourmet dining episodes that are created by world’s renowned chefs. Instead of booking a simple cruise vacation, now a high number of travelers are booking for trips based on famous chefs’ appearances on selected cruise lines. There are also events of opening trendy cocktail bars or restaurants aboard a ship which have been quite a hit with connoisseurs. Most of cruise lines used to offer a central restaurant along with breakfast, lunch buffets in their all-inclusive packages. But now, renowned chefs are creating exclusive menus for cruise lines inspired by their destinations as well as local cuisine of ports of call. Windstar Cruises offers such culinary cruises on its small luxury yachts. It has a sophisticated fleet that consists of six yachts, each with a capacity of 300 guests. That makes it a perfect cruise for select gatherings going to ports where big ships cannot dock. Such convenience gives travelers a chance to disembark and taste local cuisine too.

food on cruise

You can find cruise discounts for all the best destinations on Hotels Etc.

Wondering which cruise ship to choose for your vacation?

by hotelsetc, posted in vacation

Are you considering a last minute cruise vacation? Or maybe planning ahead? Cruises are amazing value and most especially if you use cruise discounts, but which one is for you and how to decide on the best option?

The following are 5 examples of the best options on which to utilize your cruise discounts and for who they are most suited:

Princess Cruises

Rekindling romance, celebrating an anniversary, or just looking for a quiet getaway for two has always been the hallmark of Princess Cruises’ line. Their fleets offer a higher percentage than average of suites and mini-suites with amenities such as romantic balcony dining for two, mini-bars, upgraded bathrooms, and laundry services for that pampered feel. Deluxe dining, couples spa retreats, and private lounges are just some of the perks Princess has to offer, not to mention the price if you use cruise discounts. Cruises depart often from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and New York with destinations such as St. Thomas, Barbados, St. Kitts, The Bahamas, Aruba, and more.

Disney Cruises

For families it’s hard to beat a Disney cruise. As you can imagine, this cruise line caters to kids and families with Disney themed parties, games, and even a water park. Disney characters wander the decks taking photographs and interacting the children and families alike and there’s even classes, musicals, and other fun activities such as princess tea parties. While all this may sound tiring to the big people you can rest assured that mom and dad can also enjoy a few nightclubs, restaurants, and spa treatments while the kids are at play. Departs from New York, Miami, and Galveston Texas with destinations in The Bahamas, St. Kitts, Antigua, Mexico, and the Cayman British Virgin Islands.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s namesake Caribbean cruises are among the best on the sea for overall quality and affordability. With literally hundreds of 3, 4, and 5 night or more cruises to destinations such as Mexico, Haiti, Jamaica, The Bahamas, and more the Royal Caribbean fleet boasts innovative designs, amenities, and activities such as rock-climbing, zip-lining, flight simulators, aqua theaters, and more! A variety of restaurants, shopping options, and bars also liven up the trip. The newest ship, Harmony of the Seas, even features a water park! Royal Caribbean has a little something for everyone, catering to families and friends as well as couples.

Norwegian Cruise Lines

If you’re looking to strike it out on your own look no further than Norwegian Cruise-line’s “Norwegian Epic” which offers studio-style cabins priced affordably for solo travelers. Other ships in the fleet also include solo lodgings as well as singles events, meeting lounges, nightclubs, and more. Accommodations are snug (100 square foot cabins and that’s including the bed) but if you don’t mind the tight fit it’s hard to beat the price. With an endless supply of bars, night clubs, karaoke, and even a bowling alley- it’s hard to imagine you’ll spend too much time in your cabin anyway! Departs from New York, Boston, and Florida with cruise destinations in The Bahamas, Bermuda, and Mexico.

Carnival

Carnival cruises have long been known as affordable fun cruises for the whole family. With 25 ships in the fleet and destinations all over the world Carnival has not forgotten it’s humble beginnings in the Caribbean. With home ports in Florida, Carnival’s Carribbean destinations are almost exclusively Eastern Mexico and The Bahamas. The fleet boasts children’s activities such as water slides, Imax theaters, and live entertainment while mom and dad can enjoy casino gambling, a variety of bars and restaurants, or “dive-in” movies, a poolside cinematic experience under the stars.

Check out Hotels Etc for the best cruise discounts on all of the above.

5 Best cruise destinations in the Caribbean

by hotelsetc, posted in travel, vacation

Cruise vacations to the Craibbean have taken on a whole new meaning in recent years with a large number of new suppliers entering the market with some of the best cruise vacation packages, and some equally amazing cruise ships. However, even with so many cheap cruise packages in the market, it can still be difficult choosing which one is most suitable for your trip.

With this in mind, sometimes it can be easier to choose a vacation package based on the best cruise destinations in the Caribbean and here our recommendations:

Cozumel, Mexico

This popular cruise destination off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula is the perfect blend of culture, crafts and ancient civilization.

The centre of town may be highly populated with other tourists, but Cozumel still provides some of the best souvenirs and shopping options in all of Mexico. There are many small crafts such as china sets or quaint handmade board games but arguably the most popular items in town, are the wide selection of rare diamonds on offer.

Once you have finished acquainting yourself with the main town, there is a plethora of historical attractions scattered around the island which are waiting to be explored. Cozumel is infamous for the Mayans of course, and it is here, where you can travel deep into the rainforest to visit the San Gervasio ruins or Tulum, the most popular and spectacular of all the Mayan remnants on the island.

Old San Juan
San Juan offers an excellent variety of food, attractions and as with Cozumel above, great shopping.

The city in general has a spectacular and cosmopolitan appearance with a huge number of modern café’s, restaurants and a very lively nightlife but the old town is entirely the opposite and a great showcase of the 16th century origins of San Juan. Walking is the best way to see the old town and the many historic buildings create the illusion of  stepping back in time to an old city somewhere in Europe.
In terms of excursions, there are several day trip in San Juan but the most fascinating of these is El Morro, a Spanish fortress on the very edge of the peninsula. The fortress is a photographer’s dream and the perfect place to visit for an afternoon stroll amidst ancient civilization and pleasant surroundings.

Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau is one of the most alluring ports in which to arrive on a cruise, with the appearance of a very quaint town on a particularly small island.

There are many historic buildings to explore in the town such as Christ Church Cathedral or Parliament Square, but the highlight of the town itself most visitors, is usually the myriad of alleyways and backstreets which hide beyond the face of the waterfront.

Again, Nassau is a popular cruise stop but it is easy to see why as all the main attractions on the island are a short distance away, which is vitally important when limited for time. You can easily find affordable transport to any location and with interesting attractions such as Fort Fincastle or Queen’s Staircase.

Grenada
Grenada is one of the less visited parts of the Caribbean for cruise itineraries but for anyone who prefers to see culture or more traditional experiences but still enjoy the beach at the same time, this is most certainly the place to do it.
Waterfalls, lush mountains and stunning landscapes await in Grand Etang National Park those adventurous enough to take a hike and with Grenada being a Spice island, it also offers a nice opportunity to mingle with the locals in the town markets, where they sell ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, along with many different fresh produce such as coconuts or other fruits.
However, a trip to Grenada is still about the sun, sea and relaxation and the white sands of Grand Anse Beach are amongst the finest in the Caribbean. Taking into account that the island is less crowded than most destinations, Grenada is a very peaceful destination which offers a little bit of everything, just off the beaten track.

Falmouth, Jamaica

Falmouth is the youngest of all the ports on this list with it being built only a few years ago for the sole purpose of restoring a forgotten part of Jamaica. As a result, Falmouth is an extremely unique city full of Georgian architecture with a rich history to explore.

You can take a shore excursion to Ochos Rious or Montego Bay upon arrival to visit the beach, go snorkeling or even to swim with dolphins, but the most popular activity in Falmouth is actually to visit the nearby sugar plantations, for which the area is renowned.

Provided you stay in the same area for the day, Falmouth also makes for a very quaint and charming town to walk around. There are many boutique stores, markets and craft offerings while the famous Jerky Chicken is a must try, along with the incredibly fresh fruit which are grown local to the port.

Check out Hotels Etc for all the best cruise discounts or to book the best vacation packages to the Caribbean.