Fiction: Cruises are formal and regimented

The choice is yours! Some people love the formality of a cruise with its set dining times and evening dress, and there are plenty of ships that provide this traditional style of cruising. Alternatively you may want an informal atmosphere – dine at a time of your choosing and dress casually and there are cruises just for you. Visit an ACE accredited travel agent who will have the expert knowledge to ensure you choose the right itinerary and cruise to match your requirements and meet your expectations.

Fiction: Cruising is too confining and I might get bored

Fact: The scenery is constantly changing as you visit different ports and cruise lines offer a wide range of activities to cater for both the active and those who like to be pampered. Depending on the ship, you can go bowling or ice skating, learn circus skills, keep fit in the gym, relax in the spa, take a dip in the pool, listen to guest lecturers, watch a movie or a show, begin a new hobby, visit the casino – the list of on board activities is almost endless and then there are plenty of shore adventures.

Fiction: There’s not a lot to do on-board

Fact: Whilst facilities onboard vary considerably between cruise lines, most ships feature a range of cabins, restaurants and bars, public areas and in most cases entertainment areas and shows, gyms and health clubs. Other facilities may include a casino, pool and games rooms and many now offer dedicated child and teenager areas.

Cruising is one of the most diverse sectors of the travel industry. Each ship is unique in its style, size, quality, features and atmosphere. In addition there are ports of call stretching around the world so that a cruise can be combined with an array of exciting shore excursions.

Smaller vessels and yachts are not as well equipped, but because they travel closer to shore and make a lot of stops you are never short of something to do if sitting back is not your thing.

Fiction: Cruise holidays are too expensive for my budget

Fact: Cruising offers exceptional value when compared to a land-based holiday.

Remember the cost includes accommodation, food, activities, and entertainment plus visiting new exciting destinations. With a wide range of itineraries and many different cruise lines, there is a cruise holiday to suit all budgets.

Fiction: Are there really enough destinations to visit

Fact: There are thousands of worldwide destinations from which to choose and a cruise can take you to places virtually inaccessible by other means – Antarctica perhaps or the Northern Lights. Cruise ships sail to the four corners of the world and new destination ports are constantly being introduced.