All About Cruises

Tag: activities

  • 4 Reasons to Take a Chance with Your Cruise’s On-Board Health and Wellness Programs

    4 Reasons to Take a Chance with Your Cruise’s On-Board Health and Wellness Programs

    Among the belly flop competitions, silent dance parties, and bingo games, many cruise ships also offer passengers the opportunity to attend various on-board health and wellness programs while at sea. Some may include products or services for sale as part of the program while others are informational (although there may still be a very soft sales pitch). It’s easy to blow off these events as “not for me” but there are a few great reasons to consider going to that brow bar event or fitness seminar:

    1. It can be fun.

    Oftentimes these programs include games, giveaways, and raffles. Even if you don’t book a spa treatment, you might win a few skincare samples or cruise line swag. It’s a nice icebreaker, too, if you’ve any interest in meeting new people with similar interests in beauty and wellness.

    2. You might discover something new.

    Learning more about overall health and well-being is always news you can use. Even if you think you know all there is to know about massage treatments, facials, or targeting those trouble spots on your hips and thighs, there may be one nugget of info or a statistic in there that captures your attention and provides food for thought or puts things in a new perspective.

    3. Be inspired for after your trip home.

    Okay, so maybe you’re not interested in having a seaweed wrap or other high-tech sculpting treatments done on a cruise ship but perhaps it sparks an interest in exploring those treatments at home. After attending a health and wellness program while aboard your cruise ship, you may be better armed with the right questions to ask a local care provider at home to ensure the right treatment for your needs.

    4. You can get a good deal.

    Let’s say you hit the brow bar event because your eyebrows are your signature beauty look. If specialty brow products are being sold “buy one, get one free”, it could be to your advantage because these are items that fit your present interests and goals.

    It’s easy to assume that cruise ship health and wellness programs are designed to persuade you to buy things you don’t want or need. But they can also provide you with an opportunity to explore something new, indulge in a personal beauty interest, or simply expand your horizons as to new beauty and body trends. Taking a chance and attending can be fun, engaging, and worth an hour of your time.

  • Announcing the “Make It With Michaels” Program on Carnival Cruises

    Announcing the “Make It With Michaels” Program on Carnival Cruises

    What does Carnival Cruise Line have in common with the arts and crafts giant Michaels? How about a new partnership that will provide guests with the opportunity to nurture their creative side while at sea on some of the most amazing ships available. The all-new “Make It With Michaels” experience on all 26 of the Carnival cruise ships is a one of a kind partnership and feature for passengers.

    Both kids and adults will have the chance to channel their inner artist while enjoying a Carnival Cruise. These projects will blend the amazing memories and experiences of a Carnival Cruise with the creativity and vision that has made Michaels THE arts and crafts retailer across the United States. And this awesome partnership is not going to be limited to the 26 Carnival ships, patrons of the 1,200 Michaels stores nation-wide will be able to take part in cruise-themed classes starting this spring.
    Some of the onboard classes will help passengers to create a once in a lifetime treasure to match their once in a lifetime cruise memories. The arts and craft projects will change seasonally and will include the creation of mementos including key chains, bracelets, picture frames and more. What could be better than a custom picture frame to protect that favorite picture of you and your loved ones on your Carnival Cruise?

    Carnival’s partnership with Michaels just seemed to be the perfect fit, as the cruise line was searching for new and exciting ways for parents and children to interact in a fun but also creative and mindful manner while vacationing. Of the 5.2 million passengers on Carnival each year, over 800,000 of those are children. Craft projects are perfect for these kids because they are safe and fun for kids of all ages and a great family activity that can include toddlers right up to the teens.

    To kick off this new program, Carnival and Michaels are offering patrons the chance to win one of five free cruises on a Carnival ship. To enter simply click here. The drawing is limited to one entry per person, and the deadline is April 30, 2019. Just enter your name and address, and you could be one of five lucky families who are enjoying a Carnival Cruise and the “Make It With Michaels” for free this year. Leave it to the leader in arts and crafts to team up with the leader in family cruising to offer this fantastic program for the first time ever. Join Michaels and Carnival in 2019 to begin making your memories.

  • Water Adventures Await On Your Next Ocean Cruise

    Water Adventures Await On Your Next Ocean Cruise

    Seeing the ocean from six to 16 stories above while on a cruise ship is a very enjoyable experience. And for those who like the water, that view from afar can be enough to provide them with the feeling of experiencing time at sea. But for those who love the water and need to see it, feel it and even taste it, there are some amazing excursions that can meet your needs.

    Sea Kayaking
    When the ships in the Princess line dock on the island of Eleuthera at Princess Cays, your fun is about to begin. One of the most popular excursions at this port is the clear-bottom-kayak tour. You are swept through the lagoon sitting right on top of the crystal clear blue water. Splashes of salt water will wet your lips as you enjoy searching for sea life in the natural habitat that it loves and thrives in. It is not uncommon for guests to see spotted eels, clownfish, and even several majestic sea turtles.

    SUP In Galapagos
    Stand-up paddleboards have become the rage around the world for their ability to become one with the sea and the tremendous workout that they provide. Ecoventura offers paddle boarding from all of its ships including the soon-to-debut luxury yacht, the Theory. The Galapagos is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the opportunity to float along unencumbered by a motor or even a small boat provides guests with a more realistic view of this amazing locale. Sea life, including some 550 species of fish, inhabit this protected area and will be inquisitive and unafraid of a SUP. Guests have the potential to encounter rays, whales, sea stars, angelfish, Parrotfish, the Sergeant-major and many more; all close enough to almost touch.

    Sailing
    With New Zealand proudly sporting its Americas Cup title, the entire country is eager to introduce its guests to the joys and challenges of sailing. Viking is offering passengers the opportunity to try their hand at the task in the Hauraki Gulf. Guests will enjoy this three-hour tour aboard a sleek yacht used in the 1995 race. It is also important to note that this ship is far more well-equipped than the ill-fated S.S. Minnow, and has never failed to return after a three-hour tour; nor does the Captain answer to the name Skipper. But this is a rare opportunity to enjoy a vessel that has been a part of the Americas Cup!

    If you want the salt water splashing on your face and the sea life within arm’s reach, then these excursions are the perfect way to turn your next cruise vacation into the trip of a lifetime.

  • Great Cruise Activities for 2019

    Great Cruise Activities for 2019

    The days of booking a cruise to recline in a lounge chair on the deck and watch the sea go by are long gone. Guests on today’s cruise ships still want to be able to relax on the deck for a bit, but not until they have satiated their desire for activity and excitement. Some of these activities are taking place in the newly outfitted fitness and spa areas of the ship, while others are a part of the new style of adventure excursions being offered on both river and ocean-going cruise ships.

    River cruises have always been known for their opportunities for intimate excursions to discover some of the best-kept secrets in the towns along the rivers of multiple continents. But now those tours and excursions are stepping it up a notch with guided bike tours, hiking excursions and even short adventures in smaller boats, kayaks or paddleboards. Not only do guests enjoy seeing these amazing new towns and cities, but they are also enjoying the exercise and healthy lifestyle that has become the norm for many. Cruising is about indulging a little bit, but there seems to be a demand for a bit more balance and self-control than in years past. Guests are enjoying the gourmet meals and fancy adult beverages but counterbalancing all of those carbs and calories with a good dose of physical activity.

    When many travelers picture an Alaska cruise, thoughts circle around ice-cold temperatures and short periods of time spent in a parka on deck as they observe the snow and wildlife from afar. But again, there is far more to do on an up-close and personal level if you have the desire. Small Zodiac boats spend hours ferrying passengers clad in cold weather gear to glaciers for climbing, hiking and fishing adventures. In the warmer areas, guides lead hikes to explore the bear habitats, some of the best salmon fishing in the world or the lifestyle and customs of some of the more remote villages.
    In the tropical climates cruise guests are now exploring Mayan ruins, the Rainforest, and assorted sand-covered slices of tropical paradise with more excitement and adventure than ever before. Local businesses offer the opportunity to get a birds-eye view with parasailing, treks over rope bridges suspended hundreds of feet in the air, and from zip lines that add the feeling of actually being that bird in flight. Other adventures take guests to the solitude and beauty found only underwater for snorkeling, scuba diving and even a tour in a small submersible.

    Anyone who has chosen not to book a cruise because he or she thinks it will be too boring or sedentary needs to rethink that decision. Cruise ships offer as many or even more activities and adventures than can be found in most towns or even major cities. The new cruise lifestyle is definitely keeping up with the desire to be active.

  • Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady Cruises are Ever Health Conscious

    Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady Cruises are Ever Health Conscious

     

    Virgin Voyages, the new adults-only cruise line from Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, has revealed a few of the wellness features that will set the Scarlet Lady cruises apart from all of the other cruise lines. The purpose is to appeal to the ever-growing health consciousness of many adults. This is an aspect that many cruise lines overlook as the focus is on plentiful food and drink as well as lounging in the sun.

    All fares on Virgin will include complimentary group fitness classes in addition to a number of public spaces focused on health and well-being. The Crow’s Nest is a sundeck that will offer sunrise and sunset yoga classes while taking in the 360-degree beauty and tranquility of the sea. The Runway is a running track in, of course, Virgin’s signature red. And the Athletic Club will connect these two amazing features and offer an outdoor training zone which will have a boxing ring, and strength and gymnastics equipment. The area is designed to remind passengers of a 1920s era athletic club complete with relaxation spaces and a sporty looking bar.

    The B Complex will feature designated areas for strength, spin, yoga, and cardio training. And each area will also offer a magnificent view of the ocean for added motivation. Technogym ARTS, a sustainable fitness technology, will be the equipment of choice in all areas. And after a good workout, passengers can retire to the Well-being Pool or the Gym and Tonic bar area for a cold-pressed juice. MyBeast, an adult fitness area and playground reminiscent of Venice Beach, is another option for a little fitness and fun.

    When it is time for total relaxation, passengers can visit Redemption, the ship’s spa. Located on deck 5, the theme of this spa is an underwater cave. A mudroom, salt room, cold plunge pool, hydrotherapy pool, and quartz beds round out the features that can be added to a traditional massage or other spa treatment.

    Virgin Voyages has decided that there should be more to a vacation than just decadent food and drink. While guests will certainly be treated to amazing meals, entertainment, and activities, there will also be a certain value placed on maintaining a healthy lifestyle even when on vacation. This added feature and focus is expected to be very popular with the adult crowd that these beautiful state of the art vessels have been designed to serve.

  • How To Introduce Your Children To The Joys Of A Cruise

    How To Introduce Your Children To The Joys Of A Cruise

    Not every child is a good traveler and not every child is going to like the idea of going on a cruise. Your child might have heard from a friend about a boring experience or there might be a phobia of being on the water that he or she is not comfortable disclosing to you. But there are a few tips that you can employ to make your kids first cruise experience enjoyable for them and by extension for you.

    Participation In Planning
    Every child likes to feel involved and even in control of some part of his or her life, which includes vacation plans. Older children might like to look at the cruise line’s website to offer input on the ship selection or the activities to book. Younger kids are not going to have as much real input but you can ask simple questions about what they would like to see or do on a cruise. Tell them that you can get off the ship and go to a beach if they are interested or that you can go explore the jungle. Having some idea of what is coming will help to reduce their anxiety and let your child prepare for the trip.

    Plan A Trip To The Kids Club
    Almost every ship that allows children also has a designated kids space. Some are designed only for older kids who don’t really require a sitter while others offer childcare for younger guests. But all kids club areas offer an introduction “party” or welcome aboard for children and their parents on the first day of the cruise. Even if your child has no plans of visiting the club area during the trip, the welcome party is a good time to stop in to meet the other children on the cruise. Cruise ships are huge and your child might not run into other children for a few days unless he or she checks out the kids space.

    Plan On Some Down Time
    With all of the activities and fun happening throughout the ship, don’t forget to plan on some downtime for your child. This time to relax and decompress can be in the cabin reading a book, watching a movie or whatever your child does at home just to relax. But a trip filled with constant activity can create a grumpy child who isn’t going to be a fan of the next cruise vacation.

    Children take a great many clues from their parents on how to react to new situations. So be sure to remain positive even when waiting in line or trying to find a seat at the pool. Also, talk about anything that you think your child will enjoy and get his or her opinion. And finally, relax and enjoy some quality time with your child away from electronics.

Skip to content