Sea the world

Cruise through your holidays. Literally. Not only do you get the chance to immerse yourself in luxury aboard a cruise liner.

But you also get the chance to see several countries in one shot. Where do you begin? Well, to help you, we've put together a couple of cruises to start you off.

While cruises typically call for a great deal of planning, sometimes you may just land a bargain at the last minute.

It's not cruising season within the region — that's between October and May — but elsewhere, it's all about ‘seaing' the world.

Here goes ...

Mediterranean Masterpiece

Cruise liner: Crystal Serenity (Athens to Monte Carlo
Destinations: Departs from Athens to Kusadasi, Mykonos, Sarande (Albania), Rome, Livorno, Portofino, St Tropez and Monte Carlo.
Earliest date: July 19
Duration: 12 days
The Ship: The 68,000 ton liner can carry more than 1,000 guests comfortably. Relax in the variety of lounges, or at the spa offering treatments for both men and women.

When you are refreshed and energised, head down the dancing venues — some of which remain open till the wee hours of dawn.

If you feel like simply unwinding, you can visit the library or even watch a movie in the Hollywood theatre.

There are also a number or leisure facilities including golf, nearly a quarter mile for jogging/walking on deck, indoor/outdoor pools and, of course, a shopping arcade.

Cruise highlights: Kusadasi in Turkey was once a fishing village and its history dates back to 10th century BC.

The pier is just a 20-minute drive to the centre of town. Visit the nearby ruins of Ephesus — said to be the grandest.

Next is Mykonos, one of the most popular Greek holiday destinations that boasts stunning beaches, picturesque bright white houses, museums and of course a number of eateries offering tasty Greek cuisine.

Livorno is close to Italian gems such as Tuscany, Siena and Florence.

Lush landscapes and fascinating architecture as well as the influence of Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci and Botticelli, make this stop worth exploring.

St Tropez's town centre is just a five-minute walk from the docking site and with its famous beaches, shopping experience, yachts lining up the harbour and distinguished waterfront homes, it's no wonder the destination is a favourite among A-list celebrities.
www.crystalcruises.com

Southern Caribbean Cruise

Destinations: Departs San Juan (Puerto Rico) to Oranjestad, Aruba, Willemstad, Curacao, St. George's, Grenada, Roseau, Charlotte Amalie (St Thomas), San Juan (Puerto Rico)
Cruise Liner: Adventures of the Sea
Date: From July 12
Duration: Seven nights
The Ship: The 138,000 ton, 15-deck liner can accommodate at least 3,114 guests who are offered exceptional choices of destinations and onboard facilities.

These include the ice-skating rink, 9-hole miniature golf course, basketball court, spa, the 24-hour Royal Promenade and a rock-climbing wall.

For the kids, there is a youth programme on offer as well as tasty eateries such as Johnny Rockets, Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream and video arcade. And for those who simply can't take their minds off work, there are business facilities on board.

Highlights: Once you step ashore at Charlotte Amalie, you can head to Paradise Point which is just a few minutes walk from the pier.

Here, visitors can take a sky ride on the tramway which lifts you 700 feet above sea level for great views of the harbour and surrounding areas.

Then, when you are in Roseau, Dominica, make sure to experience Falls Direct excursion where you can enjoy the twin falls as they cascade into a deep pool enveloped by lush landscape.

The Unesco World Heritage city walk in Willemstad takes you across the St Anna Bay then passing Punda's shopping area which features famously coloured houses.

The “floating market'' in Curacao is also a must-visit where Venezuelan merchants gather to sell fruits and vegetables.
www.royalcaribbean.com

Mexican Riviera Cruise

Cruise Liner: Vision of the Seas
Duration: Seven nights
Date: From August 17
Destination: Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, Los Angeles
The Ship: This cruise line holds almost 2,500 guests and weighs almost 78,500 tons. With six whirlpools, themed lounges, spa, pools and shopping atrium, meeting rooms, musical performances, theatre — guests will find just as much to do onboard as well as offshore activities.

Highlights: Once in Mazatlan, be sure to catch the Mexican Show with the world famous Papantla Flying Indians and cliff divers.

The world's highest natural lighthouse is also said to be located here at Vigia Hill. For something more thrilling, take the Tropical Jungle Tour at Puerto Vallarta at the Sierra Madre Mountains and lush jungle of Chino's Paradise.
www.royalcaribbean.com

Northern Europe and the Baltics

Cruise Liner: Silver Wind
Date: July 21
Destinations: From Copenhagen (Denmark), Alesund, Bergen, Geiranger and North Cape (Norway), Spitsbergen, Denmark.
The Ship: The 16,800 ton ship takes around 300 guests and is the second ship introduced by Silversea.

Local performers entertain visitors with musical styles ranging from jazz to cabaret.

Also featured are lectures given by recognised authors, historians, geographers and ambassadors in case you want to learn something new.

An extensive library of DVDs to watch or books to read while relaxing at the pool deck, are also available to you.

Highlights: Discover the myths and legends of the troll during a walking tour in Alesund until you reach the highest perpendicular rock face said to be in Europe, popular ski destinations and historical villages.

In Bergen — experience old and abandoned mountain farms at the edge of the cliffs or have a break at the Ice Bar in Gravdal where everything from tables and chairs are made up of clear ice.
www.silversea.com

CRUISE CONTROL

12 things you need to know before you set sail

1. Booking

In some cases, booking should ideally be made anywhere between six to 24 months in advance especially with those who know exactly when and where they want to go.

However, many cruise lines offer last-minute deals, especially if cruises are not fully booked and so many rooms can be discounted — which is ideal for those with more flexible timings. If travelling in a group, it is recommended to book early to get the best cabins and flights.

2. Packing

This obviously depends on the climate of the destination you are heading to so it is best to pack accordingly.

Usually, when on board the ship you will need casual clothes, comfortable shoes, sandals/flip-flops, resort wear or sports wear, sundresses and casual skirts.

Also, do not forget your swimsuits. Towels are usually provided by the ship but it is best to double check.

When taking part in land excursions, it is best to take jeans, khakis, T-shirts and light sweaters in addition to walking shoes or trainers. Also, pack a hat, sunscreen and an umbrella — just in case!

For the evenings on board, women are recommended to bring formal dress such as cocktail dresses/outfits and for men, suits and tuxedos will do the trick, as in most cases casual wear is not acceptable while dining.

But formal dress nights don't necessarily mean tuxedos and gowns; a suit or dress will do.

In case of conservative places, it is always best to dress modestly.

Take a journal with you so you can savour your experience, an address book so you can send postcards to your friends and family back home, binoculars and travel guides for extra info during your excursions.

However, don't forget to save space for souvenirs!
Also, check with the cruise line for items that are not allowed on board.

3. Luggage

Write your name, address and contact details on a card or sticker and place inside and outside of the bags.

It is best to take hard sided luggage to prevent any damage, which can also be caused by hangers, heels and other sharply-edged items.

It may take a bit of time for your luggage to reach your cabin so if it is not there once you get inside, do not panic immediately.

4. Medicines

Consult your doctor before boarding if you suffer from motion sickness.

Also, do not forget to bring all medication which has been prescribed to you, and it is recommended to request a brief medical history report from your doctor if you are being treated for any current conditions.

5. food

When booking your cruise, make sure you inform the ship of any dietary requests and/or situation — after all, you do not want to worry about falling ill during your journey and it won't make much of a story!

Drinking water in some locations may be off limits so ask the cruise director when unsure.

6. Dining

Do you have to eat in the formal dining room with strangers and dress for dinner? Well, most ships have various dining options: buffets, cafes, speciality restaurants and formal dining rooms.

Many ships offer “dress casual'' nights in the formal dining rooms.

Some cruise lines let you sit where you want in the dining room. If not, the other option is a fun one too — chances are you'll enjoy meeting other people at your table.

The dining room can also help you avoid loading your plate repeatedly at the buffet.

Portions are controlled (although you can always request more than one entree or dessert); and some menus highlight lowfat or low-calorie options.

Some cruise liners offer baby-sitting services, so take advantage if needed, and book a romantic dinner for two.

But you should also be prepared since some ships do not offer tables for two.

7. Boarding

Most cruise lines require passengers to check in no later than 60 minutes prior to sailing but it is best to get there about two hours early.

Friends and family are allowed to see you off at the pier but will not be allowed to board the ship.

After boarding the ship, check out the stateroom where you will find information on all onboard activities for adults, families and youngsters.

After this, you can register or make reservations for spa treatments, fitness/entertainment classes and for meals.

Certain beverages purchased at duty free may be confiscated until the last day of cruising so ask and you will not be disappointed.

If you have any questions or need advice, speak to the staff members onboard who have most likely visited the designated ports numerous times.

8. Valuables

Do not leave valuables lying out in the open. What you should do, instead, is place them under lock and key or keep them in the ship's safe.

Once you are in your cabin, check if everything is in order. Otherwise, report any faults immediately.

9. Excursion

You do not always have to take an organised tour. For an indepth discovery of your destination, you can consider exploring on your own.

However, if you do want to take the tour, make sure you budget accordingly and try to book as early as possible as they may get booked pretty quickly.

In either case, check all insurance coverage carefully, and just as important — keep track of the time so you don't miss the ship. Otherwise, you have to arrange to get to the next port.

So, for this and many other safety reasons, keep personal identification and the ship's details close at hand.

10. Tipsis Some luxury lines forbid tipping.

Other cruise lines recommend certain amounts. Some offer prepaid gratuity options or levy a service charge for dining room staff and the person who cleans your room.

A typical tip for stateroom attendants is $3.50 a day (Dh12.8); dining room staff tips run $5-$10 (Dh18.4-Dh36.7) per day, with that amount shared by your waiter, wine steward and maitre d'.

With prepayments, you're charged a gratuity for each person in your party, for each day of the cruise.

So, even if your kids never eat in the formal dining room, prepaid tips will go to the servers on their behalf.

You might be better off deciding on tips near the end of your cruise, in case it makes more sense to tip a buffet worker who delighted your children each night at dinner with a magic trick.

11. Prices

Cruise prices include the room, food and some beverages. Free drinks might include coffee, tea, iced tea, lemonade and with breakfast, juice.

Normally, luxury cruise lines don't charge extra for wine or liquor.

But on many other lines, you can't even get soda for free. However, you could take advantage of packages where you can buy beverages with unlimited soda.

You could also end up spending a lot on casinos, spas, internet access, video games and shopping.

If you're on a budget, stick to free activities — pool, gym, shows, and in port, a stroll through town or the beach instead of that pricey helicopter tour.

If you want shore excursions, you'll find vendors offering tours in each port. They may charge less than the cruise line charges for similar outings.

But if you have your heart set on a certain activity, book in advance through the cruise line and consider it money well-spent. Popular tours will sell out.

12. Before you leave home

Before you leave the house there are a few things which need your attention so as to ensure peace of mind during your journey. These include:

CRUISE GLOSSARY

Adrift: Away from shore enveloped in wind and tide
Abaft: Towards stern
Aft: At or near end of ship
Ahoy: Traditional onboard greeting
Amidship: Middle of the Ship
Atrium: Central passenger area often sky lit where the reception desk is located
Berth: Refers to dock or pier of embarking, a bed, or space for ship to manoeuver
Bearing: Direction of ship as identified on a compass
Brow: Connecting ship to shore
Bridge: The ship's navigation centre
Cabin: Guest accommodation (also called a stateroom or suite)
Captains Cocktail Party: Takes place usually second night of cruise and is hosted by the Captain
Category: Grade of accommodation
Current: Movement of water according to tide
Clock Calm: Absolutely smooth sea and calm weather
Crossing the line: There is usually a celebration when the ship crosses the Equator for the first time
Cruise Card: Used as ID for adult passengers, also for entering rooms or onboard purchases
Cruise Director: Person in charge of onboard entertainment and social events
Disembark: Exiting the ship
Deck: The different floors of the ship and can be either named or numbered
Deck Plan: Illustrates locations of cabins and other areas for passengers
Fore: Front of ship
Gangway: Where passengers embark or disembark ship
Galley: Ship's kitchen
Jerque: When customs authorities search ship
Lifeboat: Small boat used in emergencies only
Maiden Voyage: First sailing of ship
Maitre d': Restaurant Manager
Muster: Gathering passengers and crew in case of emergency
Pilot: A person who navigates ship in and out of port
Port of Call: Destination where ship is scheduled to make a stop
Quarters: Officers and staff accommodation
Shore Excursion: Tour organised for cruise passengers
Stern: Rear part of ship
Underway: When ship has left pier and is in motion
White Horses: Foamy waves.
Windward: In the direction of the wind