|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Want to improve your golf swing? Learn indoor climbing?
Walk off pounds and tone muscles? Relax with a massage?
Enjoy the solarium pool? Listen to live music? Work out
in the fitness center? Most larger cruise ships offer an
amazing variety of activities and amenities, from spas
and salons to gyms, pools and sports facilities. There
may be lectures, movies or dance classes. Many of these
activities are free. Others, such as spa or beauty
treatments, gambling, on board purchases, laundry
service or excursions are extra and are charged to your
shipboard account.
Every evening, your steward will clean your cabin and
turn down the bed. He or she will also leave a daily
guide or ship’s newsletter that details the next day’s
activities and/or port details. This is invaluable
information so take time to read it and see which events
and activities are of special interest to you. Get the
most out of your trip by taking advantage of these
offerings.
Some cruise lines include staff gratuities in the cost
of the trip, while others automatically charge your
onboard account with a daily gratuity. Many companies
leave the total up to you but provide a recommended
amount. It’s customary to tip for beauty salon services,
for example, as well as to tip extra for those who have
shown you exceptional service. Ask about the gratuities
policy ahead of time so you can budget for it, if
necessary.
|
| |
|
How about playing some challenging bridge? Brushing up
on your computer skills? Learning the art of watercolour
painting? Finally mastering the foxtrot? Finding things
your kids are eager to do? Trying your hand at a new
style of cooking? Getting involved in ship’s activities
is a wonderful way to meet new friends and to expand
your trip experience. Check to see if signing up ahead
of time is required, if so, do so as soon as possible to
ensure a spot.
Talk with a travel agent ahead of time to see if there’s
a cruise or cruise company that offers activities
catering to your interests. For example, some ships or
cruises are geared to special interest groups.
Occasionally cruise lines offer special interest trips
such as cruises for birders or jazz enthusiasts.
If you’re interested in wildlife, remember that the best
place to be is outside on deck with a good pair of
binoculars. Not only will you have a far greater chance
of spotting whales or bears foraging at low tide, but
also it’s a great opportunity to meet other like-minded
guests. Remember that early morning and low tide is
often the best time for spotting wildlife or birds.
|
|
|
|
|
