Some are not aware that people confined to wheelchairs, unable to get around as easily as others and those with certain sensory impairments are just as welcome on the cruise ship as any other passenger.

Even though they are welcome, they must be aware that the general structure of cruise liners means that getting to and from shore can be difficult. Most cruise ships do not have facilities for the blind or hard of hearing, so they must be accompanied by an able carer that can assist them and guide them on their cruise holiday.

IF you have trouble with mobility, the best thing to do is book a cabin early, which will probably also result in you getting a bargain rate. That way, you can select a cabin that is located in a more accessible position on the cruise ship, making getting around easier and more comfortable.

If you were hoping for a last minute cruise, you may have difficulty finding a cabin that is placed to make it easier for you to get around. It is always best to book as early as you can if you have a specific disability, which will go a long way to making your cruise holiday more socially enjoyable and memorable.

At Thomson cruises, you have to let the company know if you are planning on using a wheelchair aboard the ship. This is due to the fact that only a certain number of wheelchairs are allowed at the same time. Be sure to contact Thomson Cruises Special Assistance Team for more detailed information.

Baltic Cruises are a popular holiday choice for travellers from all over the world. With Baltic Cruise itineraries on offer from such leading operators as P&O cruises, Thomson Cruises and Princess Cruises, passengers can choose from a range of cruise experiences taking in the highlights of the Baltic coastline.

Baltic Cruises will offer a combination of ports throughout the Baltic region offering a selection of sights and sensations along the way. Visit Copenhagen, the beautiful and popular Danish capital, billed as one of the greenest cities in Europe, where passengers can enjoy a walking tour and admire the stunning skyline dominated by a plethora of towers and spires. Go to Gothenburg, the Swedish city that is home to the innovative Alvbogs Bridge and the architecturally inspiring Gothenburg Opera House. Helsinki, the Finnish capital, is a great stop for Scandinavian souvenir shopping and was recently selected as the World Design Capital for 2012. 

Why not try Talin where the beautifully preserved medieval capital of Estonia sits in stark juxtaposition to the grim remnants of the Soviet era. Or sail to St Petersburg, Russia’s “Imperialist Capital” and second largest city with sights such as the Peter and Paul Fortress Cathedral, Griboyedov Canal and the Winter Palace. Also on offer is Oslo, the Norwegian capital which offers such diverse delights as the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and the TusenFryd Amusement Park.

Whatever combination of Baltic Ports passengers choose they can be sure of a unique experience, with some stunning seascape scenery along the way.

Carnival Cruises offer holidaymakers an alternative to the sometimes stuffy and staid onboard atmosphere offered by traditional cruise operators. The cruise specialists claim that their cruise holidays are “proof that fun floats” and their exceptional programme of onboard activities and entertainment are a testament to their belief in this motto.

Onboard activities range from sporting contests to deck parties, with facilities such as casinos, bars, nightclubs, live performance venues and more all onboard for the cruise passenger’s enjoyment. Dedicated teams are employed by Carnival Cruises to structure and lead children’s activities ensuring they get as much enjoyments as the adults from their time at sea.

During your time in port, Carnival offers an exceptional selection of shore excursions using the knowledge of local experts to help their cruise passengers experience the best selection of sights and local atmosphere during their time off of the ship.

On a Carnival Cruise every day is a cause for celebration and the cruise company’s great selection on board eateries offer a fine venue to do just that. Enjoy relaxed dining with friends, or share a cosy meal as a couple – the choice is yours.

With a fleet of 22 luxurious liners with such inspiring names as Ecstasy, Sensation and Fascination, Carnival Cruises sails to destinations in the Americas, Europe and the Caribbean as well as offering their innovative “cruise to nowhere” option, which will allow you to experience all the on board fun of a cruise without going very far away from home.

Royal Caribbean is one of the biggest tour operators in the world, and as well as boasting a truly stunning fleet of ships, they also cover some of the most attractive routes in the world.

Royal Caribbean covers all the popular destinations; Mediterranean, Caribbean and the Far East Cruises to name but a few. This cruise company also offer more intriguing options like the Alaska cruise and the cruise to Panama Canal.

Some of the most captivating ships in the world belong to Royal Caribbean; their fleet is separated into different class categories, among the most popular is the Voyager class, which is where you will find such famous ships as the Explorer of the Seas, and Adventurer of the Seas. The latter is home to an ice-skating rink, a mini-golf course and has a guest capacity over 3,000.

The latest edition to the Royal Caribbean collection, and a ship that has been making headlines right around the globe, is the Oasis of the Seas. This cruise ship is the biggest cruise ship ever to take to the water. On board are a rock-climbing park, golf courses, and even a park with a range of flora and fauna. This colossal feat of boating architecture is over 306 metres long and has a guest capacity of 5,400.

Royal Caribbean cruises will provide luxury voyages to places that paradise can only aspire to be, and they also offer late cruise deals that can save you a substantial amount on your ticket price. Off-peak will also be a great time to travel if you are looking for the best deal.

Whether you are travelling by land, sea or air, you need to know details, rules and general information regarding your trip. Going on a cruise holiday is no exception, as passengers have to be aware of the laws implemented on the vessel, on the sea and in the country where they will disembark to avoid committing violations of local laws.

Before you depart, make the necessary arrangements for interviews, passports and visas. Do not leave if you are unsure that you have the necessary documents. This is very important because sometimes border security measures require you to show particular identification cards before you are allowed entry into a country.

In addition, you have to confirm what items are considered as restricted merchandise. Some products that came from endangered animals, as well as counterfeits, are prohibited. Don’t even attempt to keep them in your luggage because customs officials will confiscate them.

While on a cruise, be wary of the things you buy. If they’re fake or unsafe, customs can also confiscate them. Plus, be willing to declare all your possessions when you embark and disembark in a particular country. Most countries implement a law that requires this kind of disclosure from all tourists.

If you purchased some foreign-made medicines that are not approved, you may not be able to take them home. Verify what medications are allowed to be transported to your home country before making any purchases.

Don’t panic when the security thoroughly inspects your luggage. It is a standard procedure aimed to protect you and all the other passengers.

The ultimate key is to check and verify all the rules and restrictions to avoid complications with customs or other authorities.

Surely, if you’re planning to go on a cruise either alone or with your loved ones, you will seek not only the best cruise deal but the best cruise ship as well. Since you want to make your much-anticipated vacation truly remarkable and relaxing, you wouldn’t like the idea of harbouring any regrets by picking the wrong ship. You need not worry because with P&O Cruises’ enormous and modern super liners, you can have that grand cruise experience you’ve been dreaming of on one of today’s most innovative cruise lines.

If you want to have a classic cruise experience, check out what Arcadia can offer you. With its many innovative features, this grand ship provides a truly relaxing atmosphere. Yet, if you are more sophisticated, why not try Aurora, which has a unique British design? Its Moorish elegance and international glamour will provide you a more classic cruise experience.

But then, if you are looking for a livelier atmosphere, then Oceana could be the best pick for you. This ship’s wide range of entertainment and facilities will surely expose your childlike nature. Or if you want a combination of traditional and modern cruises, you can try the newest P&O ship, Azura. Each day will be different on Azura, and throughout the day you can enjoy both the glamorous formal occasions as well as the ordinary yet exciting everyday activities.

Oriana and Ventura are likewise good options for people who are adventurous and romantic. Oriana is a great ship suited for all ages, while Ventura is specially designed for families and couples and those new to cruising. Both of these enormous cruise ships can provide you with a more relaxing and romantic atmosphere through their stylish features and innovative facilities. So, if you want to have more fun on board, these ships may be the ones for you.

Cruise lovers normally weigh things up very carefully when planning to go on a cruise. Aside from choosing the best and most affordable cruise deals, one should also take into consideration the season or time of cruising. Here are some of the things that you might consider when planning to take a cruise holiday.

1. Know the difference between the best time and the cheapest time to cruise.
For most people, the best time to cruise is when they are granted a long vacation and the weather is really good. Though it varies from one country to another, the months with the best weather are considered the peak seasons. Yet these are also the times when the companies charge more because of the number of eager tourists. It is cheaper to go on a cruise during the off-peak seasons.

2. Decide which destinations you want to go to.
It is important that you know what countries you want to visit before you decide on purchasing a ticket. There are some companies that offer all types of cruises all year long, while some prefer to offer only certain types of cruises during off- peak season. This means that if you want to visit the Mediterranean during winter, make sure that it’s on the list of the ship’s itinerary.

3. Check out all the standard schedules of different cruise companies.
Not all cruise lines are like Royal Caribbean that can offer you Western Mediterranean cruises all year round. Some accommodate tourists only during summer and other certain months. It is a wise move on your part to be informed, rather than to get disappointed.

4. Finally, deliberately plan how long you want to stay on vacation.
You surely won’t like going through the hassle of abruptly ending your holiday just because of unwanted business calls. Before getting onboard, it’s better that you first settle your business affairs and other commitments to ensure a more relaxed and hassle-free vacation.

Are you getting excited about a family getaway that’s only a few days away? Well, go ahead and pack your things now! Preparing for what to bring on a cruise sounds really easy, doesn’t it? But this, in fact, isn’t necessarily the case.

The thing to keep in mind about cruising is that you may face a new day in a new port everyday and this may bring new weather or a new climate, combined with days at sea, which may bring a sunny or windy day. So, how do you pack to cover each eventuality without bringing your entire closet?

Here are some tips to consider in packing for your cruise:

Tip 1: Pack lightly. Remember to bring a sweater, jacket, or shawl for cold nights and hyper-air-conditioned ships.

Tip 2: Bring casual clothes; shirts, shorts and beachwear for sunny days. Remember to wear comfortable flat shoes with a rubber grip when going ashore and walking on deck.

Tip 3: On formal evenings, ladies will generally wear something glamorous and dressy, such as an evening dress or cocktail outfit. Men might need to bring a dinner jacket or tuxedo.

Tip 4: Never leave your daily sun protection cream, a sun hat and sunglasses – the sun is much stronger at sea!

Tip 5: Don’t forget your swimwear.

Tip 6: Don’t bother packing towels – they’re provided in the bathroom. For the swimming pool, you can also find towels at poolside.

Tips 7: Bring just enough ‘ordinary everyday’ goods. Cruise Ships are usually very well stocked with these.

Tip 8: Check whether you need to pack extra clothes for a theme night or talent show; you might need some special outfits.

Tip 9: Check the baggage size and weight limit for the airline that you’re using. Make sure that you have underweight luggage when you leave home; it’ll never be that light on your way home!

Tip 10: Take your documents with you. Don’t forget to buy comprehensive travel insurance and bring your tickets and passport.

Bon Voyage!

Those who are physically disabled should not be denied the luxury of cruising. They should have all the privileges of living “the cruise life”. With the advancements made in today’s technological society, most people can enjoy cruising. Most ships have specially designed rooms and decks. Some even have all their amenities designed specially for them. There are even lifts to help them in and out of pools. Some shore excursions are designed to accommodate people who have mobility issues. Certain lines suit the needs of the physically challenged, although their accommodation may vary from ship to ship and would also depend on the disability of a person.

Itineraries without a lot of tender ports should be one of the things that a disabled passenger should look for, should they decide to go on a cruise. A ship’s tender (on cruise ships it’s called a lifeboat tender) is used to transfer people on deck to the shore and vice versa, or to another ship. A tender is usually a small boat but it can also be a larger ship. Having said that, tender ports don’t have docks for the ship, meaning that ships can’t pull alongside. This may not be the best option for people with mobility issues.

Some cruise lines offer motor coaches for transportation while in port. Other companies provide lifts while others have accessible railcars and ramp vans.

With just the right planning, people who are disabled can enjoy all the joys a cruise can bring.

Many people who love travelling, especially on the high seas, can now experience the luxury of a cruise holiday without worrying too much about the cost. In the past five years, many cruise companies have started to offer a choice of economical cruise itineraries for first timers and budget-conscious tourists. As a result, many more families and young people are now seriously thinking about taking a cruise holiday, even if they are on a tight budget.

There is a remarkable growth in the number of people opting to spend their holiday on a cruise ship compared to those who prefer to go to a resort or other land based destination. It’s partly due to the fact that many cruise lines have lowered their prices to attract more customers. This has enabled many more tourists to experience the comfort and lavishness of a cruise holiday.

Some cruise lines, for example MSC, offer a range of stylistic and grandiose cruising experiences to their passengers, at very affordable prices. Most companies now operate modern fleets that provide extensive entertainment facilities, such as cinemas, gyms, children’s areas and shopping malls that enable families to bond with each other and couples to have a more intimate time, yet in a fun setting. They are able to offer this experience by providing all-inclusive cruises that often compare favourably with the more traditional resort style holiday.

It is generally accepted that most, if not all, cruise companies are now vying with one another to provide affordable deals for today’s more demanding and frugal clients. Since the world wide economic downturn, travellers around the globe are searching for the best cruise deals that will enable them to enjoy their holiday, while make the most of their hard earned money.