According to the 19 cruise line members of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) this was a new record for cruise vacations.  The Association expects that number to increase in 2005 to over 11 million.

CLIA is the cruise industry’s chief marketing organization and the largest travel industry association based on agency membership in North America.  The president and CEO of the association says that cruise vacation bookings are coming in “fast and furious”.  Consumer demand on cruise ship trips continues to rise and cruisers are looking to farther destinations like Europe and the Asia.

Cruise Ship Cabins

Some cruise cabins have VCRs or DVD players, and some televisions also have radio/music channels. The cabins also usually have a night table, reading lamps, and a chair. Most modern cruise ships come with a hairdryer, so you won’t have to bring one from home. Some standard staterooms feature personal safes, table, desk with chair, convertible loveseat, mini-refrigerator, and even Internet access, although it is often much more costly than in the common Internet lounge. The cruise line brochure or Web site usually specifies what amenities are in each cabin.

The next step above an outside cabin is one with a balcony (verandah). These cruise cabins have sliding glass doors, giving you access to the outside. The sliding doors also mean you can see outside from anywhere in the cabin, i.e. lie on the bed and still see the ocean outside. Usually the cruise balcony cabins are also larger than the standard cabins, and some qualify as mini-suites. Which means they have a small sitting area with a loveseat or convertible sofa. The cruise mini-suites also usually have a curtain that can be drawn to separate the sleeping and sitting areas. This feature is ideal for couples (or friends) that have different sleeping habits.

Romantic Gift Ideas

A lasting impression can be imprinted on our special someone if he/she is treated to an unforgettable experience.  For the price of a fine pair of earrings, you can treat your romantic partner with a dinner cruise along one of the waterways near your corner of the world.  For the price of a necklace and earring set, you can book an elegant cruise of four to eight days aboard a magnificent cruise ship.  How impressive is that for a romantic gift?

Romantic vacation gift cruises can cost as little as $500.00 per person.  These romantic experiences can provide you with a lifetime of memories.  Envision exotic ports of call, majestic landscapes, sipping a glass of vintage wine on your private balcony, enjoying an exquisite meal in an elegant dining room and dancing into the night?  All of this can be yours each day of your cruise.

Taking a Deaf Cruise

With a deaf cruise, many things are modified to accommodate. For example, there are certified interpreters onboard who can guide the passengers through the cruise, answering questions and just being there to provide service. In addition, the ships are equipped with TDDs or TTYs (telephone/computer systems used by the deaf), flashing doorbells and wakeup alarms, and so on.

For example, a wonderful cruise to Alaska can be booked through Hibiscus Travel. The Princess Cruise Line has some amazing opportunities for the deaf, providing ASL interpreters to make every passenger’s experience top notch. In addition, this deaf cruise is affordable, costing around $1,400 for 10 full nights, which includes fabulous meals, entertainment, the interpreter service, and fees and taxes.

A British colony since 1684, the island of Bermuda has long been a favorite for U.S. and Canadian tourists. Up to 220,000 visitors each year arrive aboard Bermuda cruise vessels, which dock at one of the island’s two ports - Hamilton and Kings Wharf. Bermuda does also have an airport to the northeast of the island, ushering in around another 380,000 visitors annually. The Bermuda government places strict limits on the number of visitors entering this tiny land area each year. Booking your Bermuda cruise well in advance of your desired sail date is therefore highly recommended.

Cruise passengers are then free to explore Bermuda by foot, scooter, bicycle or boat. Bermuda cruise operators will also have a raft of shore excursions available for passengers to enjoy, the cruise ship acting as a floating hotel for the duration of their stay on the island.

Short Cruises

Virtually every aspect of the cruise experience will be the same on a short cruise as it would be on a longer cruise - it just ends a bit sooner.  Passengers can experience the amazing cuisine (always a big hit with cruisers), the onboard entertainment, the luxurious surroundings of the ship itself, and stops at several exciting ports of call.

Short cruises usually carry a lower price tag than a traditional seven-day cruise.  So, in addition to committing less time to the trip, you’re also committing less money as well.  It’s the perfect way to sample the cruising life to see if it’s right for you.

Shopping for Cruises Online

Planning a vacation can be an exciting part of the vacation experience as a whole. As you investigate and research, the excitement builds. You become more and more interested in finding information - without being overwhelmed - and can get great satisfaction that you will purchase the very best cruise vacation deal.

One can find information on cruise vacations in many locations - newspapers, friends, “brick and mortar” travel agencies and cruise travel agencies, and on-line. The best bet is to start researching for your self.

Decide on where you would like your cruise vacation to travel - should it be a warm winter vacation, a fascinating and relaxing Alaskan cruise, an interesting European vacation cruise or an exciting adventure cruise. At a1-discount-cruises.com you can find merchant links, and more importantly at the start, articles about cruises, cruise itineraries, cruise lines, cruise ships, cruise wear and more to help you plan your special cruise vacation.

A kaleidoscope of colour and beauty where reggae beats fill the air and taking it easy is a way of life, the most precious jewel in the Caribbean has something to offer everyone.

Combining lush green mountains, sparkling waterfalls and mile upon mile of palm fringed tropical beaches with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that you will never forget; Jamaica will exceed all of your expectations.

Britons heading abroad and making purchases or withdrawing cash on their debit and credit cards have been warned that they may be paying over the odds for these transactions.

Florida is packed with activities - it has a celebrated status as a shopper’s paradise and a haven for golfers. A

dd rocket launches at Kennedy Space Center on the East Coast, the wildlife of the Everglades in the South, exquisite sandy beaches off the West Coast and you have a true picture of Floridian life. If you are travelling to the USA, you must read about the new visa & entry requirements.

Atmospheres are luxurious of course, yet there is also the feeling of unpretentious informality and a relaxed conviviality, which quickly brings guests together. You are always in your element no matter which ship you select. No noisome crowds, no bothersome announcements interrupt.

Blissful, private cocoons scrupulously maintained by discreet hotel staff who seems to sense by osmosis when they are necessary.

Naturally there are times when guests would prefer to savor the pleasures of the table privately en suite, and so on all Radisson ships, 24 hour room service is available featuring the chef’s entrées during dining hours and a select menu at other times.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea offers flexible “Personalized Voyages” where guests choose the length of their voyage and ports of embarkation and disembarkation. Prices are based on a simple daily rate. For as little as US$100 per person, guests on all ships may embark earlier than the standard 3PM and disembark as late as 5PM.

Genuinely hospitable, and sociable with the emphasis on excellence. Each and every special touch is introduced with such style and finesse you’ll quickly feel like a preferred member of the world’s most intimate country club. A ceremonious white gloves greeting and flute of chilled champagne welcomes you. Available in your suite is Bvlgari toiletries and plush robes. Placed on your pillow, Godiva chocolates.

All accommodation is in ocean-view suites (80% with private teak verandas). Beautifully appointed with a rare degree of finesse and refinement, every suite features a marbled bath with a full-size tub (double sinks on Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper). There are seven different types of suites ranging in size from 240 square feet (Vista Suite) up to 1400 square feet (Grand Suites).

Honeymoon Cruise Packages

Be sure to specifically inform your travel agent that this will be a honeymoon cruise; the cruise line will usually prepare special gifts for newlywed couples.

Think about the size of the vessel before you book.  The larger ships can host 3,000 passengers or more.  It is literally like a little city on the sea.  For a more private and personal setting, there are some which carry only a few dozen people at a time.  These smaller yachts, however, are more unstable during storms and heavy winds.  This turbulence can make some people nervous or even slightly ill.  It’s just something to keep in mind.

Asia Cruise

Few places on Earth can offer cruise visitors such avaried and dramatic experience. From the vestiges ofancient China to the modern day wealth and opulenceof Singapore and Taipei, an Asia cruise encapsulatesthousands of years of history and diverse cultures in asingle voyage…

Other Asia cruise options include routes around the Bayof Bengal, and routes that follow in the footsteps ofMarco Polo’s return sea journey from China in 1293.The typical duration of an Asia cruise is 12-16 nights,although extended cruise vacations that take in avoyage through the South China Sea and Bay of Bengalcan be arranged.

This pretty island nestles in the heart of the Mediterranean and boasts clear blue waters, secluded bays and sandy beaches. Malta offers an enticing wealth of culture and familiar customs, with the added attractions of baroque palaces and medieval walled citadels.

We would recommend getting out and about to explore Malta, so why not hire a car and set off around the sun-drenched coastline? You’ll see quaint harbours with fishing boats, lidos and spectacular views along the way.

A visit to the capital Valetta is a must along with the walled city of Mdina, the blue Grotto and the neighbouring island of Gozo.

There are a variety of cruises. Some vessels like Christmas market cruises are small while others ocean going ones are comparatively quite large. Then there are those that have an aura of remarkable serenity contrary to the ones that are extremely vibrant and brimming up with life. Cruises also vary according to the age groups of people. Like the serene ones are usually meant for the grown ups, while families with kids prefer entertaining cruises to keep their children busy throughout.

Nowadays people especially the honeymoon couples opt to cruise some of the places. This is because of the heavenly experience of traveling in the midst of huge oceans and also because of a surge in the amenities available at the cruise. From ravishing rooms, delectable cuisine to small golf clubs, video games and small casinos for gambling?all add to the enthusiasm to travel through cruise. Moreover the incredible hospitality and watchfulness of the staff on the deck adds a feather to the aura of the cruise.

How To Save Money On Cruises

Buy One-Get One fares are often offered. You buy your ticket and bring another person along for the ride. Or better yet, split the cost of the fare and you both travel at a 50% discount.  Flat fare specials are one fixed price for the best available cabin at the time of booking.

You should check into airfares at reduced rates offered by your cruise line to get you to your embarkation site. The early bird still gets the cruise, just like with the airlines. If you’re a good long-range planner, then you can save mucho dinero. The earlier you book your cruise - the more you save. Typically 10 - 40%.

Holidays Afloat

Yachting means you aren’t confined to any one area, or even any one island; giving you the opportunity to visit various beaches, coves and beautiful coastlines on your travels. Alternatively, you can remain on your boat and watch the sun rises and the sun set over the clear horizon of the sea. Whether you are looking for an action packed vacation in the destinations of your dreams or a tranquil, even romantic getaway for you, your family and loved ones. The possibilities are endless.

Whether you choose to go bareboat, take a captain, or even an entire crew there is bound to be a destination to suit you. Many destinations offer the complete package for your vacation. Spend a couple of days in a secluded cove, exploring the beaches and seeing the beautiful plants and wildlife and then the rest of your vacation in the exotic harbour on the next island. Everything is possible on a yachting vacation.

Crystal Cruises

Nights are full of life. Award-winning production shows and a host of other evening performances await where the spotlight shines on Tony award-winners, Julliard grads, Broadway and West End performers as well as the Crystal Ensemble of singers and Dancers. Showrooms were custom-designed to offer perfect views from each seat and offer superior sound and lighting systems. Costumes are hand made and staging is skillfully crafted to bring every vibrant moment to life. Each cruise also has a variety of cabaret-style entertainment including vocalists, comedians, ventriloquists, instrumentalists and classical artists (you may find yourself serenaded with classical melodies during afternoon tea or whispering special requests to the trio which strolls through the Crystal Dining Room in the evening).

Crystal Cruises excels with there quite remarkable Creative Learning Institute and Crystal Visions Enrichment Program. You can enjoy classes and workshops in the fields of Arts & Entertainment, Business & Technology, Lifestyle, Wellness, Wine & Food, attend courses as diverse as successful grand-parenting and menu planning, experience lectures on the latest advances in medicine and alternative medicine; take piano classes from Yamaha or language lessons with Berlitz. There’s a Computer University at sea, fitness centre, golf driving ranges and putting greens (PGA golf instructors are on select sailing’s), large lap pools, full size paddle tennis courts, and escorted and private Crystal Adventures (shore excursions).

Evocative, mythical Rhodes, with its rich historical legacy, fertile plains, eastern coastline of sandy beaches and rugged mountainous interior, has something to interest and excite everyone. Strategically positioned at a maritime crossroads in the southern Mediterranean the island has been under the control of the Romans, Byzantines, Knights of St. John, Genoese, Venetians, Ottomans and the Italians.

They have all left their architectural mark with churches, pillars, mosques and minarets dotted around the island, and the fascinating story of the Colossus, a mythical bronze statue, 100 feet high which guarded Mandraki harbour. Bathed in warmth by the sun god Helios, Rhodes is now a perfect holiday setting.

With a hire car you can explore this large island at your own pace. It is also possible to join one of our excursions which take you to the ancient city of Kamiros and the Valley of the Butterflies, a boat trip to the lovely island of Symi, or a day trip to the resort of Marmaris in Turkey - a shopper’s paradise.

A New Zealand cruise insures that you’ll get thebest out of your visit to these islands. Ten,twelve and fourteen-day cruises around New Zealandgenerally begin in Auckland on the North Islandor in Sydney, Australia. They take in many portsof call along the Eastern coast of the North andSouth Islands, as well as a few ‘bonus’ ports inAustralia and Tasmania - these generally beingMelbourne and Hobart.

At the North Island’s most southerly point isNew Zealand’s capital - Wellington. Here you canexperience the heart and soul of modern New Zealandlife and enjoy spectacular views of theSouth Island. If you time it right, you could evenwatch the Dragon Boat Festival that takes placein Wellington Harbor in March every year.

Tropical Cruise

A tropical cruise can be embarked upon from many portsaround the U.S. In Florida, the ports of Canaveral,Miami and Fort Lauderdale all offer excellent choicesof tropical cruises, with itineraries varying fromtwo and three night cruises to the Bahamas, to 14-daycruises around the more exotic parts of the Caribbean.

There are essentially four tropical cruise routesaround the Caribbean - the Western Caribbean route,Eastern Caribbean route, Southern Caribbean route andan exotic Caribbean route that is a combination ofports stops taken from the other three routes.

Alaska Cruise Guide

There are some 11 and 14 day cruises which include more ports of call and more glacier touring. There are 2 different kinds of cruises available: Inside Passage Cruise: roundtrip departure from Vancouver/ Seattle, usually 7 days long. You cruise the inside passage through the islands offshore from British Columbia and Alaska. Stops usually include Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway and Juneau. Gulf of Alaska Cruise (or Glacier Route Cruise): You cruise one-way northbound from Vancouver/ Seattle or one-way south from Seward, Alaska. You will see more glaciers on this route and an additional port or two.

Pick the right cruise ship for your style,- some ships are more traditional, other more stylish, elegant, some offer more choices for children, other are more seniors-oriented. The cruise comparison chart below should help you in making the correct choice. Check your cruise itinerary, almost every ship usually includes several formal dress code nights. Dark business suit or a tuxedo would do the thing.

Alaska cruises tend to be more casual than other destinatons but items such as cutoff t-shirts, halter tops and torn jeans are still not permitted in the dining area.Tipping is usually $10 per passenger per day. We recommend you to book a stateroom with a balcony. Theview on an Alaska cruise is always changing- mountains, shores, wildlife, marine animals, glaciers, or quaint waterfront communities. You can enjoy it from the privacy of your own balcony, escaping crowded decks.

First Time Cruisers

If you are flying or driving, I recommend getting to the city where you will board the ship the day before you sail.  This will prevent you from running to the ship at the last minute, hoping it is still there, should you have any problems with flight delays, lost luggage, traffic back-ups, etc.  This will allow you to rest from your travel and give you ample time to get to the ship on the day it departs.  Avoid getting to the ship at the earliest time allowed or at the last minute.  Getting there in the middle of the hours designated to check in sometimes reduces the time you have to stand in line to check in.

Tipping on cruise ships is expected and there should be some guidelines on suggested amounts in the material you receive from the cruise line.  Generally, the people you tip are your cabin steward, your waiters/waitresses, and the maitre ‘d.  After all, they do take good care of you.