Product Description
Cruising used to be the primary holiday choice for the older generation however today there are hundreds of cruises available to suit all age groups. Cruising allows you to enjoy the tranquillity of the wide open seas while also having every mod con and form of entertainment available in one place. Depending on the cruise you choose, you also get to stop off at a number of ports along the way so you see the sights as well as the sea.

Main Players
The cruise provider you choose will depend on the type of cruise you’re looking for. Some of the big names in cruising include Cunard Lines, Carnival Cruises, P&O, Fred Olsen and Princess Cruises. If you’re looking for something specifically for children then Disney Cruises is also an option.

Pros of Cruises

• Cruising offers the best of both worlds. You get to relax on the crossings and see the sights of foreign lands when you dock.
• Cruise liners today have everything on board you could ever need and an all inclusive package means you can use the facilities as much as you like.
• There is always a range of cabins available to suit most budgets. If you don’t mind having an interior cabin you can get a very reasonable last minute deal in most cases.
• You can book a cruise to virtually anywhere in the world so there is no danger of running out of possible destinations.

Cons of Cruises

• For a decent cabin with an external view you will often pay a lot more than you would for a week in a hotel.
• The seas can get quite rough at certain times of the year so if you suffer from seasickness then cruising isn’t advisable.
• If you don’t opt for the all inclusive package option then the food, drink and entertainment facilities aboard can work out expensive.

Things to Consider when Choosing a Provider
Before booking a cruise with a particular provider you should consider the following:

• Do they offer the exact cruise you want – does it call in at the ports you want to see and does it offer the entertainments you’d like to take part in?
• Do they offer an all inclusive package as these often work out a lot cheaper than paying for everything separately?
• Are day trips at the various ports of call included in the price?
• Are all of the cruise facilities included in the price e.g. internet usage, the gymnasium, evening entertainments etc.
• Do they have good children’s entertainment if you’re looking for a family holiday?
• Are they negotiable on their price? For example, if you find a comparable cruise elsewhere for a lower price will they match or better it (some providers will if asked).

BUYability Summary
Cruising is a great way to see the world while relaxing for weeks at a time. There are literally hundreds of cruise itineraries and destinations to choose from and leaving it until the last minute to book can often save you hundreds of pounds on the original price. In fact, if you leave it until a few days before departure you can even get a luxury outside cabin for the price you’d normally pay for a regular inside room – and what better way to see the destination of your dreams than in luxury.