Why are cruises becoming so popular? Jess Cammerman finds out.
Cruises are an all-in-one vacation option. You don’t need to worry about booking transportation, hotels, attractions, events and activities — the cruise line does absolutely everything for you in a single all inclusive package. You are blissfully escorted from one destination to another and can rest in a gorgeous suite between activities.
In Australia, cruises are especially popular because the cities are all coastal. Virtually anywhere you want to visit in Australia can be reached by cruise. Whether you’re already an Australian native or a visitor to the country, you can find a tour that suits your needs. Some cruises even go to other countries in the South Pacific!
The Bachelor(ette)’s Cruise
What’s more fun than good-spirited gambling during a bachelor party? Davida Mintz suggests that poker cruises gives you all the excitement of a casino while taking you and your buddies to fun and interesting ports of call. Gambling isn’t usually legal in Australia, but cruise ships off the coast of Western Australia are the exception. If you’re in the outback and have a taste for blackjack, poker or the slots, a casino cruise may be the best (and only) option!
The Sightseeing Cruise
Of course, one of the best reasons to go on a cruise is to sight see. Not only do cruises offer relaxing rooms and on-board attractions, but they also dock in an assortment of interesting locations. Visit one city or a dozen cities, depending on your itinerary, and never miss a thing! Many cruises don’t just take you to the ports of call, but also offer exclusive activity options. Some Australian cruises go as far as Indonesia, and many of them go to New Zealand and the surrounding islands of the South pacific.
What could be better for a honeymoon than a cruise? On a cruise ship, your every desire is met. Stay in your lovely room with a view and order room service — or take a stroll down to one of the many exquisite fine-dining restaurants. Sun yourself on the deck or take a shopping trip in the luxury boutiques. A honeymoon cruise allows you and your beloved to get away from absolutely everything and focus on each other.
The Pet Lover’s Cruise
Just can’t leave Fido at home? You’re not alone; there are many people who are absolutely wild about their pets, and that’s why there are many pet-friendly cruise ships. Dogs and cats are kept in luxury kennels, walked on a regular basis and allowed to play with other pets. Try doing that on a plane! Book in advance, because the spaces on these pet loving vessels get booked fast.
Some canine cruises are for free: “Dogs ride FREE. Advance ticket purchases are strongly recommended. Dogs must be on a 6ft flat leash at all times.”
The River Cruise
Looking for a quick and simple retreat? Consider a river cruise, such as the cruises that go through the Murray River. River cruises give you all the amenities of cruising in a small, simple package. Murray River cuts through most of South Australia, Queensland and Victoria, and lets you take in sites in Australia that can rarely be seen via any other mode of transportation. These river cruises take you to attractions such as wineries and allow you to view the local wildlife. River cruises have become exceptionally popular in recent years as ways to see another side of a familiar place.
As you can see, cruises are extremely diverse today. Practically any type of cruise that you can think of can be had. You can have a single day cruise or a multi-week cruise, a single destination cruise or an international cruise, a fun party cruise or a relaxing retreat. The limits are only your own imagination! If you’re interested in learning more, call a cruise operator today and find out which options they have on offer!
