Nearly 10 million people will go cruising from US ports this year. Most of them will embark in the state of Florida and will head for various destinations in or around the Caribbean Ocean. Miami is the most popular cruise port in the USA with Cape Canaveral and Jacksonville Florida close behind. Destinations include the tropical islands of the Eastern and Western Caribbean or the exotic ports along the coasts of Mexico, Central America or South America.
Alaska is another favorite cruise destination during the summer months. The beautiful scenery of the northern Canadian and Alaskan coasts with their vast wilderness areas and accessible wildlife draw many tourists to this fascinating sub-Arctic region. The cruise ships depart from the ports in Seattle Washington and Vancouver Canada.
Cruises are very popular in the Hawaiian Islands. Since the various tourist attractions of Hawaii are scattered about several different islands, cruising is a popular way of visiting the many sights.
There are cruises for those going solo, looking for luxury, seniors or families. There are cruises for mystery novel lovers, adventure lovers, singles, honeymooners and more. Holiday cruises are gaining in popularity as well. Cruises vary in cost, length, ship style, size and number of passengers. What should you consider when selecting your cruise?
Who Is Going? Although most cruises offer fun for everyone, some are better for certain groups. Younger couples like Royal Caribbean for its fun atmosphere and reasonable costs, families with children enjoy Disney cruises and older cruisers looking for more luxury and less crowds like Crystal.
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When Do You Want To Go? Summer and winter are the most popular cruising seasons because children are out of school and people pretty much know where they want to be when the heat or the cold comes. If you choose to cruise in the fall and early spring, you'll find great prices because of lower demand although you do risk disruptions due to hurricanes during the fall months.
Where Do You Want To Go? Cruises are going everywhere now, so you'll probably be able to find one that leads you to your destination. The most popular destinations fall under the following categories:
How Long Do You Want To Cruise? Cruises can last from three nights to a few weeks A lot of people choose a shorter cruise for their beginning cruise, but not everyone.
How Much Do You Want To Pay? When pricing a cruise, airfare is usually not included. The cruise-only prices can range anywhere from four hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the amenities of the ship, length of stay, destinations and season. The average cruise is $500 a person. As a general rule, you should reserve $75-100 a day for miscellaneous expenses in addition to the cost of excursions. Remember, the total cost of a cruise including all expenses and add-on excursions can end up two or three times the published price.
Building on the popular themed cruises for romance fans or singles, niche market cruises for people like book lovers, wine aficionados, adventurers and sports enthusiasts are gaining steam. Once a slow time in the cruise industry, more people are choosing to leave the worries of home behind and take a holiday cruise. Another trend is offering more for your kids. Ships have expanded from day care type services and games to nature programs, language classes and port excursions.
There are over 20 cruise lines in North America, but most people travel on these leading lines.
Carnival Cruise Lines is the leading cruise company and has long held the brand of "fun ship" which is why it attracts a lot of young couples, singles and party groups. Considered one of the most innovative cruise companies, Carnival has made industry acquisitions to cater to the short cruise and luxury seekers. Visit Carnival.com now for specials on cruises to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico and more. Sail for as little as $259!
