Sefton Monk

My Kind of Cruise

Top reasons why cruising is for everyone, young and old

The cruising industry has undergone significant changes over the past few decades, making it almost unrecognisable from the days of the past, with class levels, bow ties and formal how do you do's.

While some cruise lines still offer this classic cruising experience and have a loyal following, it doesn't appeal to everyone. The newer cruise lines are particularly attractive to the younger generation.

Eat when you want, and how you want.

One major factor that has deterred younger people from exploring cruises is the traditional dining routine. Many fear that cruising involves formal attire and sitting at large tables with randomers. Thankfully, this is no longer the norm.

Several major cruise lines have abandoned the fixed dining schedule in favour of more flexible options. Lines like NCL and Royal Caribbean allow guests to dine whenever and wherever they prefer, much like a regular restaurant on land. Additionally, most ships offer buffets with nearly 24-hour access to a wide variety of high-quality food. Alongside the elegant dining options in the main restaurants, there are often casual eateries where guests can grab a burger or other comfort foods.

Shorts to dinner? why not.. but not always.

On many modern cruise ships, the requirement for formal dress has been significantly relaxed. Although there are still opportunities to dress up and have professional photos taken, cruise lines like NCL and Royal Caribbean no longer enforce a strict formal dress code, unlike more traditional lines such as Cunard. This relaxed dress policy allows passengers to pack lighter and eliminates the worry of having to iron formal attire.

By removing the mandatory formal dress requirements, these cruise lines have created a more casual and comfortable environment for their guests. Passengers can enjoy their vacation without the stress of adhering to a rigid dress code, making the overall atmosphere on board much more relaxed.

Additionally, this change appeals to a broader audience, including younger travelers who may prefer a more laid-back experience. The freedom to choose when and where to dine, combined with the option to dress casually, contributes to the appeal of these modern cruise lines. Passengers can still indulge in elegant dining experiences and capture memorable moments with professional photography, but the choice to do so is entirely up to them. This flexibility enhances the cruising experience, making it more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.

No need to worry about the bar bill

The popularity of all-inclusive beverage packages is undoubtedly increasing in the cruise industry. A majority of cruise lines, including NCL, now offer these packages as part of their special booking deals. It's rare to find a holiday where you can enjoy a free bar for the entire duration of your stay, let alone have access to more than ten bars operating 24 hours a day!

Guests can indulge in a variety of drinks, from cocktails by the pool to a glass of Prosecco with lunch, and whatever beer, wine, or spirits they fancy long into the evening. This convenience and variety significantly enhance the cruising experience, making it more enjoyable and stress-free.

The availability of these all-inclusive beverage packages means that passengers can fully relax and enjoy their vacation without worrying about additional costs for drinks. It also adds a sense of luxury and indulgence, as guests can sample different beverages throughout their trip without any restrictions.

Whether enjoying a refreshing cocktail under the sun, a celebratory drink with dinner, or a nightcap before bed, the all-inclusive beverage packages offer a seamless and delightful experience. This growing trend is making cruises an even more appealing option for travelers seeking a carefree and enjoyable holiday. The inclusion of such packages by many cruise lines ensures that passengers have an unforgettable and worry-free experience on board.

Name it, and you can do it! (mostly)

Cruise ships have evolved into floating resorts, offering a wide array of activities that cater to all ages and interests. The modern cruise experience goes far beyond just lounging by the pool or dining in fancy restaurants.

For those seeking adventure and sports, cruise ships feature exciting amenities such as rock climbing walls, where climbers can enjoy stunning ocean views as they ascend. Zip lines soar over decks and open spaces, providing an adrenaline rush high above the sea. Surf enthusiasts can catch a wave on FlowRider surf simulators, and skydiving simulators like RipCord by iFly offer the thrill of freefalling without ever leaving the ship.

Water fun is abundant on cruise ships, with extensive water parks featuring multiple slides, wave pools, and splash zones, perfect for both kids and adults. Numerous pools and hot tubs are scattered throughout the ship, some with swim-up bars and infinity edges overlooking the ocean, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.

Entertainment options are vast, with many cruise lines offering nightly Broadway-style shows, musicals, and theatrical performances in grand theaters. Guests can enjoy live music, jazz ensembles, and comedy acts in various lounges and bars around the ship. Movie theaters and open-air cinemas allow passengers to watch the latest blockbusters or classic films in state-of-the-art indoor theaters or under the stars on deck.

Culinary experiences on cruise ships are diverse and delectable. Cooking classes and demonstrations hosted by renowned chefs allow guests to learn and create gourmet dishes and regional specialties. Specialty dining options are abundant, with restaurants offering everything from sushi and Italian cuisine to steak and seafood, often in partnership with celebrity chefs.

Health and wellness are also prioritized, with spas and salons offering a wide range of treatments, massages, and services, often in ocean-view treatment rooms. Fitness enthusiasts can stay active in well-equipped gyms, yoga, Pilates, and spin classes led by professional trainers. Jogging tracks that wrap around the ship and sports courts for basketball, volleyball, and tennis provide additional options for exercise.

Family and kids' activities are plentiful, with supervised kids’ clubs offering activities tailored to different age groups and teen lounges featuring video games and social events. Families can also enjoy mini-golf on creatively designed courses or hit the lanes in onboard bowling alleys.

Educational and cultural activities include art galleries and auctions where guests can browse impressive collections and participate in lively auctions. Lectures and workshops on a variety of topics, including destinations, history, and science, are often led by guest speakers and experts. Cultural performances highlight the traditions and arts of the destinations visited, enriching the overall cruise experience.

Nightlife on cruise ships is vibrant, with nightclubs and dance parties featuring live DJs and themed events keeping the energy high. Onboard casinos offer the thrill of gambling with slot machines, poker, blackjack, and roulette tables.

Lastly, shore excursions and organized activities allow guests to explore destinations more deeply. Options range from guided city tours and historical site visits to adventure activities like snorkeling, zip-lining, and wildlife safaris.

With such a diverse range of activities, modern cruise ships ensure that every passenger finds something they love, making each voyage a unique and unforgettable adventure.

No port is too far

Jumping on a cruise from a local port in the UK is incredibly convenient and easy. With 18 different major cruise lines departing from various ports across the country, you're never more than a two-hour drive away from embarking on your next adventure. This accessibility eliminates the need for long-haul flights and the associated travel stress, making cruising an appealing option for many travelers.

UK ports such as Southampton, Dover, Liverpool, and Newcastle serve as bustling gateways to numerous exciting destinations. Whether you’re looking to explore the Mediterranean, the Norwegian Fjords, the Baltic, or even transatlantic voyages, there’s a cruise departing from a nearby port that suits your travel desires.

Booking and boarding are straightforward processes. Major cruise lines offer seamless online booking systems, and the check-in process at ports is designed to be efficient and stress-free. Upon arrival at the port, you'll find ample parking, dedicated drop-off zones, and clear signage to guide you through check-in and onto the ship.

This ease of access makes cruising from the UK not only a practical choice but also a luxurious and relaxing way to start your holiday. You can begin your vacation feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy all the fantastic amenities and experiences a cruise has to offer.

If you love tech, you will love the this

The latest technology on cruise ships is revolutionising the way passengers experience their voyages. Modern ships are equipped with state-of-the-art features designed to enhance comfort, entertainment, and connectivity.

One of the most notable advancements is the implementation of smart technology. Cruise lines like Princess Cruises and MSC Cruises have introduced wearable devices that serve as digital keys, payment methods, and activity trackers. These devices streamline the boarding process, allow for seamless purchases, and help guests navigate the ship.

High-speed internet has also become a staple, with many ships offering robust Wi-Fi connectivity through advanced satellite technology. This ensures that passengers can stay connected with friends and family, stream movies, or even work remotely while at sea.

Entertainment options have been elevated with immersive experiences such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Royal Caribbean, for example, offers a VR bungee trampoline experience, while Carnival Cruise Line has incorporated AR into their mobile app for interactive ship tours and games.

Sustainability is another area where technology is making an impact. Newer ships are equipped with energy-efficient systems, waste treatment plants, and advanced hull designs to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

These technological innovations are making cruising more enjoyable, convenient, and environmentally friendly, setting a new standard for the industry.