World of Water

A History of Water Travel
The majority of our planet is covered by water, and for thousands of years humans have continually found new ways to take advantage of this most important resource. From discovering that it was easier to move objects on water than over land to learning to get from one land mass to another using a carved-out log and paddle, from dugouts becoming boats and progressing into more sophisticated craft, from the progression of sails and slave galleys to steam power and engines, from waterways becoming the highways of commerce, water transportation has surely and steadily evolved through to this day. The latest phase of this evolution has been the promotion of leisure travel on water, a phenomenon that has blossomed into a new age of sea travel.

Cruising Today
Today, cruising on ships no longer means lounging in a deck chair, taking in the sun poolside, playing shuffleboard, and attending formal dinners and dances. Rather, modern cruise travel has becoming a destination-learning experience, wrapped in a more casual dress code, gourmet and multiple dining options, several sporting choices, self-improvement programs, and social networking opportunities. Most sea-going ships also offer extensive supervised activities for children and indulgent adult spa treatments. Of course, quiet areas abound if desired. One of the most important features of cruising today, however, involves the experience of learning about the various ports and its inhabitants when you dock and leave the ship for the day. These destinations are chosen for their educational value and include qualified guides while visiting the locale.

What Should I Know?
Leisure water travel is divided into different cruise forms depending on size, occupancy, and type of experiences they provide; therefore, it may be of value to learn about different classes of ships and their corresponding characteristics. In addition, a preliminary fact about cruising is also necessary to mention: there is no need to fear water travel. Many individuals who were reluctant to try cruising found that, aside from mild swaying, they were hardly aware of movement; moreover, sea-going ships are equipped with stabilizers, which smooth out the ride. Also, for those prone to “mal de mar” (sea sickness), taking Bonine or prescribed ear patches are usually quite effective, and other natural remedies can also be helpful.

Different Ways to Travel
Mega Ships carry 3000+ passengers, may be 3 to 4 football fields long, and 17 to 18 decks high. They provide almost unlimited sporting opportunities, such as: artificial surf boarding, zip-lining, rock climbing, ice skating and on and on.  Some even provide miniature golf on real grass.  Most have a number of specialty restaurants in addition to Main Dining, Buffets and Snack shops.  Spas and fitness centers have also become extremely popular. Counselors supervise children according to age groups.  These ships are truly a tribute to diverse activities and entertainment options.

The Small Ship category includes River ships that rarely exceed 200 passengers and focus on extensive shore excursions to cities/towns along their route.  Most provide local, ethnic gourmet dining and entertainment.  Barges with less than 12 passengers travel limited distances within a given region, have a private on-board chef and provide bicycles to enjoy the area.  Expedition ships have limited passengers and provide up-close experiences in places like the Arctic, Galapagos, and Alaska's bays.

In between Mega and Small ships are several with less than 2000 passengers that are often themed.  A few cruise lines provide a truly luxury product, with butler and concierge services.

Due to the great variety of ship options, a professional travel planner would be important to provide the best fit for you and your family.

Please contact us or call 1-800-773-7930 for further information.