Cruising with Concern

 

Addressing the Top 5 concerns of potential cruisers

(Compiled by Fast Cover Travel Insurance)

 

Aussie cruisers are taking over! Well, not exactly, but for the first time ever we’re number 1 in the world for cruises per capita, even eclipsing the USA. If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about or have some reservations, here we address the most common concerns of the potential cruiser:

Potential cruiser concern number 1: Cruising is expensive

Cruise passengers tell us they are fearful of the cost of a cruise. However cruises can be recognised as one of the most cost-effective ways to holiday around the world. There is no other way to get all-inclusive accommodation, food and transport all day, everyday. Depending on your flexibility, your dream destination and the time of year, there are cruise deals on offer all year round and the early bird specials are always the most cost effective! 

 

Potential cruiser concern number 2: What if I don’t like what’s on the cruise?

If hatted restaurants are your thing, upmarket boutiques or spa treatments and private jacuzzis, rest assured there is a cruise out there for you. Cruise companies work hard to keep up to date with the latest activities and greatest trends. You’ll receive a daily on board newsletter detailing available activities and the best part is, all you have to do is turn up. Do your research before you depart to find the cruise best suited to you!

 

                                         

                                         Celebrity Solstice.

                                              Diamond Princess.

Potential cruiser concern number 3: What if there’s no one my age?

Contrary to the common misconception that cruises are primarily for octogenarians (or those close behind), more and more multi-generational families and travellers are taking on the cruise scene. According to the 2014 cruise passenger data over a third of passengers are under the age of 60! Different age groups enjoy different activities – reading and relaxing, attending a cocktail party or more educational and engaging activities like cooking classes, rock climbing or ice skating for the kids. There really is something for every age.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Potential cruiser concern number 4: With that many people on the boat, I’ll have to queue to get into things and I hate queuing!

Be concerned no more! Nowadays, you can pretty much do all of your bookings online, not only for the main dining room, but also the spa, shore excursions and other activities, as soon as your booking is confirmed with the cruise line. When you arrive check out the activities, set up a meeting with the concierge or activities organiser and lock them in to ensure you don’t miss out.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shore excursions and eating at local restaurants can be organised by the ship's concierge - or you can book online.

 

Potential cruiser concern number 5: Internet access is woeful

Extremely costly and also painfully unreliable, internet access on board a cruise ship is in truth, woeful. Depending solely on the weather conditions and the number of other passengers trying to surf the net, can be very frustrating. But you’re meant to be escaping the outside world anyway, right?

Our tips? Try a time when the least number of passengers are also trying to connect, or ask the staff members where the best spot on the ship is for getting a reasonable connection.

 

 

                                         Getting ready to plate up lunch on the Diamond Princess.

 

 

                                         Seadream YachtClub

 

With any type of holiday, there’s bound to be pros and cons. But with 36 ships making a total of 650 port visits around the country this cruise season, cruising is definitely becoming a more popular and tailored holiday option for Aussies. So with a little bit of research, we doubt you’ll have any trouble finding the one that suits you!

 

Dean Van Es, CEO, fastcover.com.aufastcover.com.au

 Fast Cover Travel Insurance