SARAH WILLIAMS @ HAYS TRAVEL
Abta L9519
Freephone: 0800 086 2698 / 01772 393061 / 07834 853478 - Email sarah.williams@hays-travel.co.uk
** PLEASE NOTE, THIS WEBSITE HAS BEEN CREATED BY SARAH FOR YOUR INFORMATION **
Highlight - Ambassador Cruise Lines
ENJOY YOURSELF WITH AMBASSADOR
Welcome to Ambassador, Britain’s premium value no-fly cruise line sailing from 8 regional UK ports. When you sail with us, you’ll enjoy breath-taking destinations, amazing West End-style entertainment, excellent service and outstanding cuisine; all for the best value.
But what does this mean? Well, you’ll get a decent cup of tea, as well as a traditional afternoon tea, and great British entertainment - all served with the warmest of welcomes at an affordable price.
Our ships visit countries all around the world, leaving it up to you to decide when and where you want to enjoy yourself next. Plus, our sustainability efforts are supporting the next era of cruising, both with our onboard improvements and our charity partnerships.
Join us on board, and you’ll soon find out why 9 out of 10 guests would recommend Ambassador and why we were awarded the best value on the high seas!
Are you ready to enjoy yourself?
WELCOME TO VIRGIN CRUISES
Scan the QR Code below to go STRAIGHT to my own personalised bookable website!
Always Included Luxury
Dining at 20+ eateries / Tips / Group fitness classes / Wi-Fi / Essential drinks / Shows & Entertainment
Meet the Ships
Yacht-inspired, mid-sized ships with 17 decks total.
• Scarlett Lady - Year round 4 & 5 night Caribbean itineraries out of Miami with a late stay at The Beach Club at Bimini, Bahamas.
• Valiant Lady: 7 night itineraries to the Mediterranean with late stays and overnights in Ibiza, Spain, Palma de Mallorca, Spain, and Cannes, France. The ship will spend summers in the Med, but head to the Caribbean for the winter.
• Resilient Lady: Summer 2023 - 7 night Mediterranean itineraries from Piraeus (Athens), Greece, with late stays and overnights in Mykonos, Greece and Dubrovnik, Croatia. Winter 2023-24 South Pacific voyages from Melbourne, Australia and Auckland, New Zealand to ports including Hobart, Tasmania and Tauranga, New Zealand.
• Brilliant Lady to come in 2023.
• Virgin Voyages offers ADA accommodations across all of our Lady Ships, in all cabin categories. Our Sailors are Rockstars, and we're committed to ensuring that we deliver an epic onboard experience for all. If there is a way that we can better meet our Sailors' needs, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Sailor Services team ahead of the voyage.
Want to know more?
Scan the QR code above to go straight to my personalised Virgin website, or simply give me a call!
Food Glorious Food
In partnering with famed restaurateurs and Michelin-Starred chefs from NYC, we’ve ditched buffets and pre-set dining times to bring you made-to-order food. Pairing fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors with ever-evolving ways to experience food, we’ve elevated and diversified our menus while minimizing waste by only cooking what’s been ordered.
• 20+ eateries are all on us — with a bar in every speciality one • No buffets. No main dining halls. And no assigned seating
• No single-use plastics are ever used on board
• Every eatery has its own kitchen and an executive chef, and all our food is fresh and made-to-order, never mass produced
Let Virgin Entertain You!
For the ‘do nothings,’ the ‘do somethings’ and the ‘do everythings,’ our approach to well-being is to do whatever works best for you. With free group workouts and outdoor fitness spaces, we’re redefining how to take care of yourself at sea.
• Redemption Spa offers full amenities and treatments, as well as a Thermal Suite — with a sauna, mud, salt, and steam rooms, hot/cold plunge pools, and marble hammam benches
• All group fitness classes (yoga, HIIT, cycling, barre, and more) are free
• Our outdoor fitness spaces include a boxing ring, training zone, running track, and The Perch — for yoga at sunrise
• The indoor facility, B-Complex, features a space to build and balance (weights/ yoga/stretch), and a space to bike and burn (cycling/rowing/running)
My experience in finding your perfect cruise!
I LOVE selling cruise, and its definately my favourite type of holiday. What other holiday can you visit countless countries, experience the culture and unpack just the once! From the small to the big ships, all the cruise companies offer something for everyone, with families in mind with Royal Carribbean, to adult only time with P&O ships, or maybe straight into the All Inclusive with Marella Cruises. Let me take the strain in finding that perfect cruise!
Not cruised before? This page will give you lots of tips and hints when thinking cruise, to the location of your cabin to the deck and what you want surrounding you, but as always I am available to chat to run through everything for you. Below are just a few of the certifications I have achieved but I always believe you learn every day!
Top 5 things to do in Southampton
Have a mini break either post or pre-cruise!
1. Tudor House & Garden
See Southampton through the ages at Tudor House & Garden, in the city centre, opposite historic St Michael’s Church. Saved from demolition and painstakingly restored, each room offers insights into a different era of its 800-year history, from life as a grand family home with links to Henry VIII to its less-salubrious period of Victorian poverty and overcrowding.
There’s 400-year-old graffiti scratched into its walls, and a pretty ornamental garden overlooks the ruins of the Norman-era King John’s Palace.
2. God’s House Tower
This former prison has a new lease of life as a heritage centre, art gallery and cool cafe. Look out for the map displaying the city at the time of the Mayflower’s sailing in 1620 to the Americas and the real-life tales of prisoners held for crimes such as stealing food.
3. Titanic Trail
There are Titanic stories dotted all over town – from the White Star Tavern, where many well-to-do passengers stayed before the ship set sail on its maiden voyage, to the many memorials recalling crew members who never returned. The most in-depth exploration is at the SeaCity Museum, where a dedicated exhibition delves into the city’s maritime heritage and the impact of the disaster on the local area.
4. The Jetty
Take in Southampton’s pretty waterfront with lunch or dinner at The Jetty restaurant, where expansive floor-to-ceiling windows offer incredible views – topped only by the outdoor terrace and its quirky private pods. Enjoy the catch of the day and oysters by the dozen while admiring the mega yachts moored up at Ocean Village Marina.
5. Medieval Vaults
Southampton is home to the largest network of medieval vaults in the UK, used to store wool, Bordeaux wine and other goods being traded with French merchants from as early as the 12th century. Some of these underground spaces were used as air raid shelters during the Second World War.
PICTURES: James Newell; A Space Arts
The top excursions from Doha
As the Qatari capital gets a new cruise port, we pick the best additional trips
We love…
Cruising on Doha Bay
The best way to view the striking skyline is from Doha Bay. Cue an MSC Cruises excursion on a dhow (traditional wooden boat). There’s time to soak up some sun, take a dip and refuel on food and drink (no alcohol though, Qatar is dry, aside from a select few luxury hotels). Or opt for a dinner cruise, accompanied by a sunset to light up the skyline.
Star attraction…
National Museum
Opened in 2019, this history lover’s dream looks stunning from the outside and guides visitors through the culture of Qatar from the first traces of life to the discovery of oil in 1939. There are huge LED screens, interactive displays, quizzes and a rug – the Pearl Carpet of Baroda – embroidered with about 1.5 million pearls. Oceania Cruises’ excursions pair it with the Museum of Islamic Art.
Culinary delights…
Persian cuisine at Parisa
Head back to the souk after dark, when restaurants serving everything from pizzas and pasta to Turkish kebabs come alive. Silversea has an evening out at Parisa – a dazzling Persian restaurant decorated floor-to-ceiling in mosaics and mirrors – which serves mezzes of bread, dips and grilled meats. To dine with a view and alcohol, pick Japanese Sora on the 21st floor of the Park Hyatt in Msheireb.
Make time for…
Hamad Port
The new cruise terminal. It’s not just that it’s huge – able to handle 14,000 passengers at once – or has all those arches, but right in the middle of it all is the biggest aquarium in the Middle East.
Local life…
Souk Waqif
Explore a maze of narrow passages lined with shops selling pots, pans, spices, birds, perfume and more. It’s great to wander the 100-year-old market, which has recently been rebuilt in the image of the original. Visit alone after disembarking the Azamara ship or go with a guide, but be sure to visit Al Souq Street, where local ladies cook fresh, authentic curries and cheesy pancakes.
Don’t miss…
Dune-bashing in a 4×4
Explore a maze of narrow passages lined with shops selling pots, pans, spices, birds, perfume and more. It’s great to wander the 100-year-old market, which has recently been rebuilt in the image of the original. Visit alone after disembarking the Azamara ship or go with a guide, but be sure to visit Al Souq Street, where local ladies cook fresh, authentic curries and cheesy pancakes.
Drinks Packages
Are they worth it?
I can only speak from my own personal experience but in my opinion YES! Especially if taking smaller sailors, you will be amazing how many soft drinks can add up pennies wise! A drink package is a popular add-on for cruisers who want to save money or are worried about an unexpectedly large bill at the end of their cruise.
All cruise ships offer drinks packages and they all vary so here is a quick overview.
MSC Cruises.
MSC Cruises offers its customers five different drink packages to suit different preferences and needs. Whether you want a few beers and a glass of wine, or a more extensive package that provides top-shelf spirits, champagne, and specialty coffees, there is an option for everyone. Each drink package is only available for purchase for the entire duration of the sailing, not by day. Note that the only included beverages are water, coffee, and tea offered in select locations throughout the ships.
Would be cruisers should consider the cost of the package, how much they think they will drink (including non-alcoholic drinks) and any perks they have based on their cabin type. Also, prices vary with cruise sailing location.
Here is what you need to know about MSC’s drink packages.
Easy Package
The most basic drink package with select alcoholic beverages, the Easy Package includes :
- Heineken draught beer
- Miller Lite (bottle)
- House wines by the glass
- Selection of classic cocktails
- Non-alcoholic cocktail (mocktails)
- Soda/ pop by the glass
- Juice
- Bottled water
- Coffee including cappuccino, espresso, caffe latte and hot tea
- Package can be used at Ocean Cay
- Package does not apply to specialty dining restaurants
- Package does not include Venchi 1878, Lavazza Coffee Ship, Jean Philippe Chocolate
Prices (per person per day)
- $38 for cruises to Bahamas, Caribbean and Japan
- €32 for cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Emirates and Southern Caribbean
- $35 for cruises South America
Easy Plus Package
The Easy Plus Package offers a wider selection of drinks including spirits and liqueurs and can be used at specialty restaurants. It includes:
- Variety of draught and bottled beers
- Selection of wines by the glass
- 10% discount on bottles of wine
- Variety of frozen and classic cocktails - *Classic Cocktails are well known drinks Margaritas, Gin Fizz, Bloody Mary, Pina Colada and Daiquiris.
- Non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails)
- Spirits
- Liqueurs and cordials
- Pop/ soda
- Mineral water
- Coffee including cappuccino, espresso, caffe latte and hot tea
- Hot chocolate and tea
- Package can be used at Ocean Cay
- Applies to beverages up to €8 /$9
- Does not include Venchi 1878, Lavazza Coffee Ship, Jean Philippe Chocolate.
Price (per day per person)
- $49 for cruises to Bahamas, Caribbean and Japan:
- €44 for cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Emirates and Southern Caribbean
- $49 for cruises South America
Premium Extra Package
This package offers the most selection of drinks and beverages, a great idea for those who want a worry free cruise or want to try a little bit of everything. It can be used at specialty restaurants as well. It includes:
- Wide selection of draught, bottled, and craft beers
- Entire selection of wines and champagne by the glass
- 25% discount on bottles of wine and champagne
- Extensive variety of frozen and classic cocktails
- Non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails)
- Premium brand spirits
- Liqueurs and cordials
- Pop/ soda
- Energy drinks
- Mineral water
- Coffee including cappuccino, espresso, caffe latte and hot tea
- Hot chocolate and tea
- Applies to beverages up to 13 /$15
- Package can be used at Ocean Cay
- Does not include Venchi 1878, Lavazza Coffee Ship, Jean Philippe Chocolate.
Price (per day per person)
- $69 for cruises to Bahamas, Caribbean and Japan:
- €62 for cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Emirates and Southern Caribbean
- $69 for cruises South America
Alcohol Free Package
A great idea for those cruisers who want a broad selection of non-alcoholic beverage options. It includes:
- Wide selection of alcohol-free cocktails/ mocktails
- Pop/ soda
- Energy drinks
- Mineral water
- Flavored water
- Fruit Juice
- Coffee including cappuccino, espresso and caffe latte
- Hot chocolate and tea
- Soft serve ice cream
- Package can be used at Ocean Cay
- Does not apply to specialty dining restaurants
- Does not include Venchi 1878, Lavazza Coffee Ship, Jean Philippe Chocolate.
Price (per day per person)
- $25 for cruises to Bahamas, Caribbean and Japan:
- €23 for cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Emirates and Southern Caribbean
- $25 for cruises South America
Minors Package
This package is for minors from 3-20 years of age on itineraries in North America and the Caribbean. For sailings in Europe, it applies to guests 3-17 years of age.
- Wide selection of alcohol-free cocktails/mocktails
- Pop/ soda
- Energy drinks
- Mineral water
- Flavored water
- Fruit Juice
- Coffee including cappuccino, espresso and caffe latte
- Hot chocolate and tea
- Soft serve ice cream
- Package can be used at Ocean Cay
- Does not apply to specialty dining restaurants
- Does not include Venchi 1878, Lavazza Coffee Ship, Jean Philippe Chocolate.
Price (per day per person)
- $17 for cruises to Bahamas, Caribbean and Japan:
- €15 for cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Emirates and Southern Caribbean
- $17 for cruises South America
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN
- Deluxe Beverage Package - Enjoy unlimited drinks and options all cruise long*. Start the day off with a premium cup of joe, sip on a poolside piña colada, rehydrate with a fresh juice and wind down with the perfect wine pairing or classic cocktail. – Plus, receive a 40% discount on bottled wines priced up to $100 USD*, and 20% discount on wine prices above $100 USD.
- Refreshment Package - Start your morning off with a cup of premium coffee or tea and freshly-squeezed juice. Stay hydrated for onboard thrills with water or favorite fountain sodas to fill your Coca-Cola® souvenir cup. And refuel for evening adventure with non-alcoholic cocktails.
- Classic Soda Package - Quench your thirst all cruise long — and get all the fountain soda and Coca-Cola® Freestyle beverages you want on the go with your souvenir cup. For an unbeatable value, you can cool off with carbonated favorites throughout your entire adventure.
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P & O Cruises
The Ultimate Drinks Package - Say ‘yes’ to an intriguing cocktail or simply sip your ‘usual’ as you drink in the magnificent views. With our generous Ultimate drinks package you can enjoy anything you fancy. Nearly every drink we serve is included for a fixed price per person, per day, and you can pay with on-board spending money.
More reasons to say ‘cheers’ – for just £39.95pp per day*
Here's what your drink package includes:
Soft drinks - Keep yourself refreshed with unlimited draught soft drinks, mocktails and 500ml bottles of water.Hot drinks - Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up or to unwind after dinner, you’ll find what you’re after among our primo Costa coffees, teas and hot chocolates.
Alcoholic drinks - Toast to your holiday fun with an array of beers, cocktails, single-measure spirits and wines by the glass up to £6.95.
Children’s drinks - We know how thirsty they get! You can relax while the kids enjoy unlimited draught soft drinks, selected juices and primo hot chocolates.
PLUS 20% discount - ... on drinks above £6.95, bottles of wine, large bottles of water, canned and bottled soft drinks, juices and smoothies for when you want to push the boat out.
What’s excluded
- Any drink over £6.95 as listed on our menus
- Bottles of wine, spirits, or any items from our on-board shops
- Large bottles of water (750ml & 1.5L), canned and bottled premium soft drinks, juices and smoothies
- Drinks from room service, mini-bar, self-service or vending machines
- Any drinks featured in other programmes or promotions (on-board specials, events such as wine tastings, cocktail masterclasses, buckets of beer, buy one get one free offers etc)
- Double measures of spirits
Important information
- Each adult assigned to the same cabin must purchase the drinks package. Sharing of packages is not permitted
- Only available on cruises of five nights or more and must be purchased for every day of the cruise
- Strictly non-refundable or transferable once purchased on board
- Alcoholic drinks are limited to 15 beverages per 24-hour period (6am to 6am)
- Only one drink at a time may be ordered (minimum 15-minute wait between orders)
- You must be over 18 (21 in USA and UAE waters)
- All bottles and cans will be served opened
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Princess Cruises
Plus Beverage Package
Beverages up to $15 USD* each
Plus Beverage Package Includes:
- Cocktails, wine by the glass, beer, specialty coffees fountain sodas, bottled water, fresh juices and healthy smoothies (juice bar), new juice bar, mocktails and crafted cocktails by Mixologist Rob Floyd
- 50 spirits, 25 wines by the glass, 25 beers, all specialty coffees & non- alcoholic drinks
- 25% discount on wine bottles (including rare vintages)
- 25% discount on large bottles of water and cans of soda
A value of $64.99 USD* per day
Premier Beverage Package
Top-shelf premium beverages up to $20 USD* each
The Premier Beverage Package includes everything the Plus Beverage Package has and:
- Top shelf spirits, reserve wines by the glass and new high-end crafted cocktails by Mixologist Rob Floyd
- Selection of 75+ spirits, 40+ wines by the glass, 20+ high-end, crafted cocktails
- Premier wines by the glass including Duckhorn, Stag's Leap, Grgich Hills and Cattier Champagne
- Private Woodford Reserve Bourbon Selection created exclusively for Princess
- Personalized Jack Daniel's Whiskey Single Barrel Select
- 25% discount on wine bottles (including rare vintages)
- 25% discount on large bottles of water and cans of soda
A value of $84.99 USD* per day
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NCL Cruises
Icon of the Seas.
This is more than a holiday upgrade. It’s the best family holiday in the world. Introducing the new Icon of the SeasSM, a first-of-its-kind Royal Caribbean® adventure where you’ll have the time of your life, multiple times a day. It’s thrills you never dared to imagine and next-level chill you never dreamed possible. Let your adrenaline surge at the largest waterpark at sea or conquer an all-out test of courage dangling high above the ocean. Pick from seven unique pools to satisfy any mood, this is an all-you-can-swim buffet. Fuel bolder bonding with tons to do for everyone in your crew at SurfsideSM, the ultimate stay-all-day family neighbourhood right onboard. And discover dishes to delight every appetite with 40 ways to dine and drink. This is the Icon of the Seas, arriving 2024.
AVAILABLE TO BOOK NOW
Icon of the Seas
This is more than a vacation upgrade. It’s Icon of the Seas ― the best family vacation in the world. Discover new neighborhoods serving up something for everyone. Like the place where the most adrenaline-pumping adventures converge, including the largest waterpark at sea with six record-breaking slides and an all-out test of courage dangling high above the ocean. And a stay-all-day neighborhood for families, offering everything you could ever want for your boldest day of bonding. An escape inspired by the beach club scenes of Mykonos, Mallorca, and beyond ― centered around the first suspended infinity pool at sea. An upper-deck oasis built around the biggest pool ever to set sail, and a place you need to see and still won’t believe.
Top 5 Thrills
Take your best-ever vacation and crank it up — way up. This is a whole new class of adventure. The kind that fills every moment with new thrills and changes the way you play for good. Like braving six record-breaking slides at the largest waterpark at sea. Or finding the courage to conquer a test of bravery like nothing you’ve ever dared, dangling high above the ocean. And diving into a stay-all-day neighborhood that opens the floodgates on family fun. And returning favorites flowing with memory-maxing experiences that take the adventure to new heights.
360 Tour in 4K
Explore this immersive 360º Tour in full 4K and learn more about the ship that's redefining adventure and setting a new bar for extraordinary.
Cruise ship review: Wonder of the Seas
The facts: Royal Caribbean’s newest Oasis-class ship is not only the largest in its fleet but the largest ship of any cruise line in the world. As you’d expect from a brand known for its dizzying array of features, Wonder of the Seas offers a vast range of both activities and food and drink options for passengers of all ages, set across eight ‘neighbourhoods’ spanning 18 decks, including the all-new Suite Neighbourhood.
The world’s largest cruise ship set off on its maiden voyage on March 7, a seven-night Caribbean sailing from Fort Lauderdale in Florida, before making its European debut on May 4 from Barcelona.
Wow factor: It’s hard to ignore the fact that this is the biggest cruise ship in the world, and the size of the vessel really does blow you away as soon as you set foot on board. After making it up the gangway and passing through the turnstiles you immediately get a sense of just how much there is to see and do during your stay, filling you with – you guessed it – wonder. You could easily spend a week on board and still find things you didn’t manage to fit in by the time you disembark.
Food and drink: With more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges, there are ample options to satisfy clients’ taste buds aboard Wonder of the Seas, no matter what cuisine they prefer. From casual restaurants such as the Boardwalk Dog House and Mexican-themed El Loco Fresh, to swanky eateries like the Chef’s Table and 150 Central Park, they’re bound to find at least one place with a menu that’s up their street.
The Bionic Bar, where cocktails are rustled up by robotic bartenders, is sure to be a favourite feature for many, while the somewhat more traditional English Pub transports passengers back to Blighty – especially when there’s a live band playing classic British hits in the corner.
Onboard activities: It’s no secret that Wonder of the Seas offers plenty to do for all ages, from relaxing retreats to hair-raising, adrenaline-fuelled adventures. The all-new Wonder Playscape is jam-packed with slides, climbing walls, games and puzzles where adventurers can discover a world with seemingly endless possibilities.
Or there’s the 10-storey-high Ultimate Abyss slide – at 150 feet, the tallest at sea – for those who are feeling really brave. Elsewhere, guests can soak up jaw-dropping live entertainment in the AquaTheater or be transported to London’s West End in the Royal Theater; try their luck at blackjack in the casino; or even ride the waves on surf simulator FlowRider.
And the options don’t stop there for sporty passengers, with table tennis, basketball, crazy golf and a zipline above the Boardwalk among the other activities on offer.
myclubroyal.co.uk
Book it: Seven-night Western Mediterranean sailings cost from £779, departing from Rome on September 29 and Barcelona on October 16. Wonder of the Seas will also operate a 14-night Transatlantic Cruise, departing from Barcelona on October 30, from £1,192.
Cruise ship review: Discovery Princess
Overview: Princess Cruises’ sixth and final Royal Class ship has been designed from scratch with the line’s Medallion device in mind – adding innovative technology to create a seamless, more personalised experience. This means the new tech-heavy flagship includes many new features to discover.
Cabins: The ship’s full range of 1,830 cabins are topped off by two enormous Sky Suites, which overlook the main pool and giant outdoor cinema screen. Mini-Suites with balconies are a popular option, sitting in size between Balcony cabins and the main suites. These have more than enough room for two, with ample storage and bathroom space, and a seating area with a desk.
Food and drink: Discovery Princess has 25 bars and restaurants. The best dinner of my five-night cruise was in Ketchikan Dining Room, which is included in the price. The service was top class and my scallop starter and pork belly main course were equivalent to fine dining on rival lines.
Popular Italian restaurant Gigi’s serves scrumptious freshly baked pizzas at its alfresco tables and carries no additional charge other than for drinks. However, speciality French Bistro Sur La Mer, where menu options included ‘Le fish and chips’, left a lot to be desired for the almost $30 cover charge.
The two tiny meal options costing $18 in the Salty Dog Grill also underwhelmed. The Crown Grill was better value, with copious extras alongside its steak and seafood. More could have been made of the sushi bar in the multi-deck atrium.
Facilities: Finding the complimentary Retreat adult-only pool and bar near the front of the ship was an unexpected bonus, while the aft Wakeview infinity pool and bar were a dramatic draw at sundown. There’s also a golf putting course.
The new Take Five jazz venue’s strange layout meant the band having to contend with people walking between them and the audience. Yet a visit to the Princess Theater led me to one of the best shows I’ve seen at sea: the new production Spotlight Bar. Also on top form were Irish duo Aileen & Sticks, who created a heady vibe mixing Laurel Canyon with County Clare at Crooner’s Bar.
USP: Technology is the selling point here: interactive maps are simple to use, and the game-changing new Medallion gadget – the size of a 10p piece – does away with traditional cruise cards. The wearable device enables passengers to access their cabins and order drinks and meals.
While the link to an associated app proved problematic at times, it was otherwise a seamless experience. The fact that bar staff recognise you almost immediately, knowing in advance your favourite tipple, emphasised the effectiveness of the personalised tech.
Book it
Princess Plus fares start at £829 per person, based on two people sharing an inside stateroom for a seven-night Mexican Riviera on Discovery Princess roundtrip cruise from Los Angeles, departing on April 15, 2023.
Cruise ship review: Celebrity Beyond
The facts: Celebrity Beyond is Celebrity Cruises’ third Edge-series ship. And apart from a few tweaks here and there, Beyond mirrors its sister vessels. You certainly feel that when the design team sat down to plan this ship, their mantra was “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. And honestly, why alter something that works so well? The few changes include an extra deck, lengthening the ship by 66ft, and increasing capacity by 350 passengers. New venues include Le Voyage restaurant by French chef Daniel Boulud and the World Class Bar by the Grand Plaza.
Wow factor: In terms of atmosphere, there’s no other venue at sea quite like the Grand Plaza’s Martini Bar, which has been given more prominence and is now in the centre of the ship. If the buzz ever does dip, you can be sure the skilfully frenetic bar staff will launch into another mesmerising choreographed mixology performance with strobe lighting and bottle-throwing.
Don’t be mistaken into thinking you can only order martinis, the bartenders will pretty much make anything you want. Here you can just sit back and reflect on what a sensational ship class Celebrity has created.
Food and drink: The menu at Daniel Boulud’s first at-sea restaurant Le Voyage focuses on international fine dining, featuring dishes such as Alaskan king crab salad and Wagyu filet mignon. Elsewhere, steakhouse Fine Cut has 12 more seats than Apex – a total of 148 – but no longer has an outside area.
The ship features four main dining rooms – each with capacity for 450 people. One of them, Cyprus, offers Greek and Mediterranean dishes and has a new design. About 75% of the menus across all four restaurants change every day and 25% stays the same.
Passengers in Aqua Class Sky Suites have access to the Luminae restaurant, which features a new design by British interior designer Kelly Hoppen. The menu at Luminae features everything from huevos rancheros to pancakes in the morning, with signature burgers for lunch and a rotating destination-inspired dinner menu.
Must-sees: The theatre is breathtaking, even though the stage has been reduced in size. Three different productions are available on Celebrity Beyond.
During our trade showcase sailing, we watched Elements and were absolutely blown away by the dynamic cast, who performed choregraphed hits against screen projections that I’d never seen on a cruise ship before. Garden-inspired space Eden, which debuted on Celebrity Edge, has further evolved with its entertainment offering. There’s at least one silent disco in Eden on every cruise.
celebritycruises.com
Book it: Celebrity Beyond will alternate between Civitavecchia and Barcelona this summer before repositioning to Fort Lauderdale in October. Prices for the nine-night Aruba, Curaçao & Cayman sailing departing from Fort Lauderdale on November 22, 2023, start from £845.
There are many cruise lines, these include:
- Royal Caribbean
- Celebrity Cruises
- Princess Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- MSC Cruises
- Oceania Cruises
- P & O Cruises
- Cunard
- Holland America Line
- Seabourn
- Silversea Cruises
- Virgin Voyages
- Regent Seven Seas
- Azamara Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Lines
- Fred Olsen
- Hurtigruten
- Disney Cruise Lines
- Marella Cruises
Odyssey of the Seas features a two-level pool deck, where two resort style pools, a children's aqua park and four whirlpools are surrounded by casitas and hammocks.
Adventure - A cruise can be an adventure. It can take you to places that are impossible to reach by almost any other means, such as the Antarctic Peninsula, the Artic or to remote islands with no access by air.
Staying Healthy - You can pamper yourself in a spa, although body-pampering treatments are at extra cost. And, with the available food, simply pace yourself to stay healthy
Cruise Life - What can you expect?
Here are some tips
The trick? Find the right ship and cruise to suit your needs - whether you are a solo traveller, a young couple, a family with children, or well travelled seniors, picking the right ship is vital! For example, I would not necessarily point a young couple to a huge family friendly ship, but probably go more towards a smaller ship with spa, wellness and sports facilities. Though it has to be said that even the larger family ships do have adult only areas!
Here's some other quick tips:
Family togetherness - Cruising offers a safe, family friendly environment, and many ships have good children's facilities and well-supervised activities for kids. It's also an excellent way for groups of friends to holiday together!
Learning experience - Most ships have guest speakers/lecturers, so you can learn something new whilst you cruise
Entertainment - Cruise ships provide a wide range of professional entertainment from colourful large-cast productions and acrobatic shows to intimate classical recitals and jazz. And during the day there are activities galore - enough to keep even the most active entertained.
8 Steps to a good first cruise experience.
Here are some tips that may just help when we help you decided that perfect cruise!
1. Your Destination
Choose where you want to cruise. Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, the Bahamas, the Baltic, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Indian Ocean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South Africa, South America, South Pacific, Southeast Asia, the US East Coast etc.
When you want to cruise. Alaska for example is not available during the winter, the Caribbean may be too hot for you in Summer, Northern Europe is best this time of year, whilst South America and Southeast Asia are best in the winter. If you are interested in a special theme, such as Carnival in Rio or Formula One racing in Monte Carlo, this will determine the date of your cruise.
3. Choose the right ship!
This is where Sarah, your Personal Travel Consultant can help! Size matters. You need the right size ship for your needs. Do you want to be with 100, 500, 1,000 or 5,000 plus others on your holiday? Generally speaking, the larger the ship, the greater the focus on it as the destination.
Or perhaps you would like to experience cruising under sail, or with specialist lecturers, or an adventure/expedition cruise or a costal/inland waterways cruise.
2. How Long?
Decide on the length of cruise you want. Allow travelling time to get to and from your ship, particularly if it is in an area far from home, or during winter. A standard Caribbean cruise length, for example, is seven days, although you could try a three or four day short break Bahamas or Mexican Riviera Cruise. In Northern Europe 12-14 days are more typical, whilst for an around South America cruise you'll need 30 days or more. For visiting the Antarctic Peninsula, allow 14-21 days, whilst around the world cruise will take 90-120 days.
4. Choose the right cabin
Again, Sarah can help you with this! For a first cruise, choose an outside view cabin. In an interior (no view) cabin, you won't know what to dress when you wake up, because you can't see the weather outside! However interior no room cabins are good if you like to sleep in a dark room. If you are concerned about motion sickness (it's not common, but it can happen) choose a cabin in the ships centre.
The average cabin size aboard a large resort style ship is 180-200 sq ft (117-18.5 sq m) anything less and you will feel cramped. With limited closet space, you'll need fewer clothes (sorry ladies!), than you might think. The more space you want, the more it will cost. Balcony cabins cost a little more than non balcony cabins.
Final tip, you can either choose your cabin number on board, or go for what the trade call Guaranteed cabins. This means that though you are choosing the type of cabin you book, you have no say as to where it is on the ship. Also, on the plus side, it will work out better value for money, but if there were any promotions such as on board spend at the time of booking, you would not qualify for those.
5. Dining
If there are two sittings for dinner, it could be wise to choose the later seating (typically at 8.30pm) so that you have enough time to ashore in port without having to rush back to shower and change for the first seating (typically at 6.30pm)
7. Families
It's important to choose a family-friendly ship. Most large resort ships have very good facilities for youngsters; mid-size and small ships have more limited facilities, and some ships have none. Children usually love cruising, finding it educational, fun, sociable and safe.
For those who don't want children around, there are several child free ships from which to choose. Why not ask Sarah for more information today?
6. Health and Fitness
If you like body-pampering treatments, check that your ship has the right facilities. Aboard large resort ships you can also sign up for exercise classes. Book spa treatments early, as appointment slots go quickly. Some cruise companies allow you to book on line, but this means planning your time in advance.
8. Dress Code
Dress codes today are mostly casual aboard the large resort ships. In general, no formal attire is needed, though there are exceptions to this, such as on a transatlantic crossing aboard Cunard's Queen Mary 2, where formality is part of the evening tradition. It sounds obvious, but ships move around, so flat or low-heeled shoes are strongly advised for the ladies!
A snapshot - Cruising Uncovered
Here a just a few of the common questions that we are asked!
Is cruising good value?
Yes, thanks in part to the many incentives such as on board credit, cabin upgrades and other perks. The price of your cruise is protected by advanced pricing so you know before you go that your major outgoings have already been set. Also when you consider that all your food, entertainment and drinks (if you have a package) are included, its amazing value!.
What's the minimum age for drinking alcohol?
Aboard most ships based in the US and Canada, the minimum drinking age is 21. However, or ships based throughout the rest of the world, it is generally 18. But it is always advised to check!
Won't I get bored?
No chance! Whether you want to lie back and be pampered or be active nonstop, you can do it on a cruise. And, in case you think that you may feel cut off without contact, almost all large resort ships (those carrying over 2,501 passengers) have ship wide Wi-Fi, internet access, movies and digital music libraries.
Are drinks packages good value?
Yes, if you like to drink. Note they can vary hugely between cruise ships, in terms of cost, and some also add a mandatory gratuity. Also, the choice may not include your favourite brands.
Is there enough to keep kids busy?
Most cruises provide families with more quality time than any other type of holiday, and family cruising is the industry's largest growth segment, with activities tailored to various age groups.
Where is smoking allowed?
Smoking is generally allowed only in designated areas on open decks. Almost no cruise companies allow smoking in cabins or on balconies. Some lines place a notice in each cabin advising you that a cleaning fee will be added to your onboard account if evidence of smoking in your cabin is found.
Almost all cruise lines prohibit smoking in restaurants and food service areas. Most ships now allow smoking only in designated areas or open decks. .
Can I eat when I want to?
Most major cruise lines now offer "flexible dining" so you can choose (some with limitations) when you want to eat, and with whom you dine, during your cruise - or a choice of several restaurants. As with places to eat ashore, reservations may be required, you may also have to wait in line at busy periods, and occupants of the top suites get priority.
Aboard large cruise ships (2,501 plus passengers) the big entertainment shows are typically staged twice each evening, so you end up with the equivalent of two seating dining anyway
Can I visit the bridge?
Usually not - for insurance and security reasons - and never when the ship is manoeuvring into and out of port. However, some companies, such as Celebrity, Cunard, NCL, Princess and Royal Caribbean, run extra-cost "Behind the Scenes" tours. The cost varies but can be as much as $150 per person.
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