Follow your curiosity!

I just read a report which said that 68% of the target consumer is interested in taking a cruise in the next three years. That is a 24% increase and it is because more people have realized it is good value and a great stress free way to travel. There are so many ships to choose from these days, and 87% of people say that the ports of call is the most important factor. One of my favorites is Silversea Cruise Line, with eight intimate ships sailing to over 800 destinations on seven continents, they can satisfy the curiosity of the most inquisitive traveler. Their ships can explore secluded harbors where big ships cannot go, with 296 to 540 guests, all ocean view suites, almost all with a private veranda, a butler, gratuities included, beverages in suite and throughout the ship, in suite dining and 24 hour room service. All inclusive means you get free daily Wi-Fi, free shore excursions, airfare, transfers and pre cruise hotel.

They have three expedition ships for just 100 to 132 guests if you want something unusual in the way of an adventure. Guided by an outstanding team of experts, guests sail across less traveled seas far into the unknown, landing on beaches undisturbed by tourists and islands uninhabited by man all while enjoying the all inclusive lifestyle that has made Silversea the cruise line of choice for the world’s most seasoned travelers.

We try and fit the client to the right cruise line and of course their budget. Some people want to be with 5,000 other passengers, formal wear, black tie every night, non stop entertainment and shows, or a small ship with no planned evening activities. I am always amazed when I see people on walkers, or in wheelchairs, who should not have been booked on that particular cruise because of having to board tenders sometimes in rough seas, to get into port. Working with a cruise specialist makes sure you are booked on the best cruise line to fit your health needs.

One new client told me that in the past when he booked a cruise himself, he ended up paying more for the bar and excursions than he did for the cost of the cruise. People don’t realize that costs for $4 for a coffee, and $14 for a glass of wine, and $150 for an excursion can quickly add up to thousands after a week on board. Looking at an all inclusive cruise is a must when planning your trip.

There are 14 new ships to make their inaugural voyages in the next 24 months. We don’t count the ships which cater to the non English speaking markets. Several are in the 5,000 passenger category.

The world cruise is for over 100 days on several cruise lines and they usually sell out within very quickly. One cruise line executive told me that their world voyage sold out in 24 hours, and there is a demand for the most expensive cabins so people want to travel in comfort. When you break down the cost of the cruise into a daily figure this is very good value. Included is economy class air plus transfers, or business class upgrade from just $999 each way which is a fantastic bargain. You get lots of added value items, such as $4000 on board spending credit. The Silver Sea World Cruise goes out of San Francisco, stops at 62 ports, in 25 countries.

My staff check out all the new vessels, and regularly take cruises to be able to compare the different cruise lines. I went nine times to Alaska, each time on a different ship, so I could rate them. This one is good for a family, good for up scale clients, and of course, the ports of call.

There is so much competition today that cruise lines are offering value added programs, giving customers more perks. I give a lecture on “How to Choose the Right Cruise Line” when I rate some 30 cruise lines and point out the differences in price and what you get for your money. When I spoke to a ladies group recently, someone in the audience told me she got a shock on a recent cruise when she got a bill for $3,000 for using a computer every day. She said she will never again book a trip without getting the advice of a travel professional to point out the pros and cons.

Go on our web site – www.allhorizonstvl.com – and see what we have to offer and recommend in cruises.

We have a Silversea offer which gives $1200 shipboard credit for new guests and $1500 shipboard credit or a two category suite upgrade for past passengers. Book before the end of February and get some smashing benefits. On an African cruise, you even get a free safari.

Where would you like to go?

Maureen Jones

Maureen Jones is president of All Horizons Travel at 160 Main Street. Members of her staff are experts in business travel, cruises, and all types of leisure.