Cruising tips from Kiwi experts

As The Washington Post‘s Nevin Martell recently observed, “there’s traditional travel and then there’s cruising – and they require decidedly different approaches”.

He believe that getting the most out of your cruise was predominantly about what you do before you set foot on the ship.

To that end, we’ve asked a variety of Kiwi experts with different specialities for their advice for prospective cruisers.

 

READ MORE:
* 17 things you might not be able to do on a cruise – including fly a kite
* First time taking a cruise? Here’s what you need to know
* Cruise ship tips and advice: 25 insider secrets

THE RIVER CRUISE EXPERT

Scott Cleaver oversees more than 30 travel brands in his role as general manager of Sales at The Travel Corporation, including Trafalgar, Contiki and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises (as well as U River, Uniworld’s new river cruising line for the more active, independent traveller).

Why are river cruises so popular?

River cruising is now so popular that the number of ships on European waterways has almost tripled in the last six years. That’s why we’re so keen to look after our people and the places we visit, to ensure that the experience remains special. Many first-time cruisers choose the Budapest to Amsterdam (or vice-versa) route, as it’s a good introduction to the region. Over the past three years, we’ve had an increasing number of guests cruising to Portugal, France, Italy, Romania and Serbia. Multi-generational river cruising is also increasing in popularity, with children, parents and grandparents enjoying cruising together.

How do you find the right cruise?

Cruising is as much about lifestyle, as it is about the itinerary. So deciding what’s important to you – ie an all-inclusive luxury experience or organising things yourself – is key. Uniworld operates with around 130 guests on board, so it can be really social if you want it to. All our cruises are also all-inclusive. Sometimes, when choosing a cruise, it’s easy to be pragmatic and look at how many nights, or how many meals are included, but I’d encourage people to think of it in terms of hotel – is it simply a room for the night, or do you want the experience to be part of your holiday?

What is the advantage of river cruising? 

River cruises ships are small enough to be able to dock in the centre of cities and towns, allowing guests to be in the heart of the action. Every comfort and convenience on these floating boutique hotels are also taken care of and our feedback shows guests love interacting with locals, which is a big part of our cruises.

What do first-time cruisers need to know? 

Don’t follow the pack, go wherever interests you. River cruising is available throughout Europe, Russia, China, South-East Asia and the US. Also, take good walking shoes – not only to see the sights, but you’ll be eating amazing food so you’ll need to stay active. And advise your travel agent of any special requests before you go – whether that’s dietary requirements or having a special occasion acknowledged.

THE TRAVEL DOCTOR

Dr Jenny Visser knows a bit about keeping healthy on the high, or not so high, seas. Not only has the Wellington medic spent 20 years in the medical travel field – as a specialist medical adviser for Travel Doctor NZ and a senior lecturer in travel medicine at the University of Otago –  she’s also worked as a ship’s doctor on seven NIWA research expeditions to Antarctica.

Before you go

See your GP for advice on managing pre-existing medical conditions and to stock up on medications. While many commercial cruise liners have a doctor and/or nurse on board, you’re still expected to bring your regular medication.

Vaccinations 

See a doctor/nurse with experience in travel medicine for advice, including ensuring you’re up-to-date with all vaccinations on the New Zealand National Immunisation Schedule (such as influenza, shingles and measles vaccines for those 65+). Vaccinations depend on the destination and planned activities, but could include Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Yellow Fever, particularly for cruises to South America and the Caribbean, where proof of vaccination may be mandatory. Insect-borne diseases, such as dengue and malaria, occur throughout the topics/sub-tropics so, during on-shore visits, cover up and use insect repellent. Anti-malarial medication may also be advised.

While cruising 

Make sure you’re always holding onto something in case of sudden movements and wear shoes with a good grip, especially if going on deck in heavy seas. Making sensible food choices isn’t always easy when many cruises offer all-inclusive packages, which can make over-indulging easy. Be sure to use the ship’s gym/pool.

Motion sickness 

Most people adapt to a ship’s motion over two-four days, so take it easy and wait for your body to adapt. Keep well hydrated with electrolyte sachets, water and weak fruit juices and stick to things like salty crackers and ginger biscuits. Also make use of the available anti-motion sickness medication. A general rule is, the larger the boat the lower the motion, so if you know you’re prone to motion sickness, opt for a larger vessel.

Food poisoning 

Norovirus outbreaks are common on cruises and can be picked up through close personal contact, or with contaminated surfaces. The best prevention is washing and drying your hands frequently. During shore visits, the usual “cook it, peel it, boil it, or forget it” applies, especially when it comes to street food.

Be prepared 

New relationships often occur on holidays so don’t forget the safe-sex message.

THE TRAVEL AGENT

Deanna Tolj is the managing director of You Travel in Newmarket. A 20-year veteran of the travel industry, the Aucklander has roamed across the globe, including “countless cruises across all cruise lines”. 

Have Kiwis caught the cruise bug?

Yes, across all cruise types, from European river cruises to large ocean-going cruises. Some cruises sell out well in advance, often a year ahead. It proves that there’s a cruise for everyone out there, even if they think they’re not the cruising type.

How do people find the right cruise for them?

Talk to your travel agent, because it’s our job to ask the right questions so we can find you the perfect match. For example, are you cruising with your partner, with family or alone? Do you like small boutique ships, or large vessels? What do you want to do, how long do you want to be away and what’s your budget? Once we’ve worked that out, we can find a cruise to match.

What’s your preferred cruise? 

I love all styles of cruising, but each has its own advantages. The smaller ships, for example, can get into smaller ports, giving you a destinational experience. Imagine cruising under London’s Tower Bridge, for example. Larger resort-style ships offer lots of activities and eating options and generally never a dull moment, so in that case, the ship becomes your destination.

What do first-time cruisers need to know?

Avoid arriving the day your cruise sets sail, in case of any flight delays; it’s always good to have a night in the city before hand to be safe. Also pack a carry-on bag for the first day of the cruise with a swimsuit, sunscreen and medication, because you might not see your suitcase until later that day. Also book things like shore excursions, speciality restaurant reservations and spa services in advance, to avoid the disappointment of missing out. That also applies to drinks packages, as it tends to be more cost-effective than purchasing these onboard. And turn your phone’s roaming function off to avoid hefty maritime network charges!

THE SMALL SHIP CRUISE EXPERT

Caryn Young is the general manager of Adventure World Travel, which includes tall-ship and small ship sailing with companies such as Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, Star Clippers and UnCruise. They deliver cruises offering marine expedition programmes that promote conservation and sustainable tourism, everywhere from the Arctic to the Caribbean.

Why are expedition cruises so popular?

Lots of our well-travelled clients have realised that large cruise lines with thousands of passengers aren’t for them and are gravitating towards a more intimate, authentic and learning-oriented holidays with cruises that provide access to smaller ports, more remote landscapes and the local wildlife.  Kiwis are especially favouring Arctic and Antarctica cruises.

How do people find the right cruise for them?

It’s critical to ask yourself what you want to get out of your holiday, the sort of travel memories and experiences that will make an impact and be clear about your budget. I’d recommend talking to a travel agent – or cruise expert – who’ll have an idea of all the possible options.

What are the advantages of small ship cruises? 

Small ship cruising is the most sustainable choice in terms of being responsible for the environment, wildlife and communities you’ll visit. It’s also the best way to experience the wild, unexpected, rare and beautiful. Having fewer than 150 people onboard means a more relaxing and personal experience, but also the ability to get to know your like-minded fellow travellers. 

What do first-time cruisers need to know? 

Check what’s included in any quoted price, because “all-inclusive” can mean different things to different cruise companies. For example, on larger ships, many of the excursions and optional activities are extra, but on small-ship cruises such as Lindblad, the daily activity choices are included.

THE LARGE SHIP CRUISE EXPERT

Mark Kinchley is New Zealand regional manager of RCL Cruises Ltd, which includes Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara, which specialises in smaller, less-travelled ports.

Why are large ship cruises so popular? 

Kiwis continue to be insatiable travellers, generally opting for longer trips than their counterparts in other countries. They also appreciate the vast options that large ship cruises offer, from delicious dining to a range of activities, such as giant water slides and entertainment options. Not to mention an incredible range of large and small locations.

 How to find the right cruise?

There really is a cruise for everyone – it just comes down to personal preference, from destination to the style of accommodation and how long you want to sail for. Do your research and familiarise yourself with each cruise line’s itinerary announcement dates  because you can get some good deals if you get in first. Cruising is often a progression, with a couple honeymooning on Celebrity Cruises, then taking their kids on a Royal Caribbean ship and later trying an Azamara, once the kids have flown the nest. My advice is: don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone – maybe try a sister ship, for example. 

What are the advantages of large ship cruising? 

Guests will never be bored with so many inclusive activities, including Broadway-style shows, sport competitions and thrill rides, such as the North Star, the Flowrider surf simulator and bumper cars. In many ways, it’s the perfect family holiday experience because it makes travel hassle-free with everything in one place and acts as a resort in itself. Also, there’s the range of options, from the luxury experience to those who want to cover a destination in-depth, or have unique cultural experiences. While destinations are the highlight, it’s what’s onboard that keeps guests coming back, with offerings such as butler service, all-inclusive packages and insider experiences beyond the reach of most tourists.

What do first-time cruisers need to know?

It comes down to what’s important to you. Do you want to flop and drop, keep the kids busy, or learn something new? This is where a good travel agent comes in handy. But also do your research, find the right cruise line for your needs and perhaps start with a local cruise to wet your toes. I can’t tell you how many people have told me they were once devout anti-cruisers, but after just one holiday on the seas, they’ve become completely hooked.