Life Onboard

• Are there different classes of service?
• Is a a stateroom with a balcony really worth it?
• Will I get bored? Feel confined?
• What's there to do in port?
• Do I have to participate in the activities?

Are there different classes of service?

Today's cruise ships are "one-class." Everyone onboard can use all of the ship's facilities. The price of a cabin is based primarily on its size and location. Regardless of the category you book, you'll enjoy the same courteous service, menus, activities, and entertainment as everyone else onboard.

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Is a stateroom with a balcony really worth it?

There is nothing like having a balcony on a cruise. The view on a cruise is always changing. Whether you're sailing along the Inside Passage of Alaska or docked among the pink pastels of Bermuda, you have an almost constant view of some of the most beautiful destinations you'll ever see.

Private balconies are also a great way to escape the crowds. You can enjoy the same view from your own deck chair while having a cup of coffee - but without the crowds.

Balcony cabins seem bigger as well. With a balcony, it's almost as though you have floor to ceiling window to the most magnificent views in the world. If you're already spending the money and taking time to go to on a cruise, treat yourself to a balcony as well. So the answer is "yes." A balcony stateroom is worth it.

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Will I get bored? Feel confined?

Hardly. Being at sea gives you a feeling of freedom few places can offer. There's plenty of room. And it'll probably take you two or three days just to discover what's onboard. Plus, you get the added adventure of exploring new and exciting ports of call.

Cruise ships are like floating resorts with all the choices fine resorts have to offer. You can be by yourself and lie back in a lounge chair, breathe in the sea air, soak up the sun, read good books, or watch the ever-changing view. Or, you can join in exercise classes, dance classes, sports contests and other organized deck activities. Perhaps you can practice your tennis stroke or golf swing, or shoot some baskets. You can go for a swim, stretch out in the sauna or work out in the gym. You can see a feature movie, attend a lecture by renowned experts, play backgammon or bridge. And that's just when you're onboard!

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What is there to do in port?

So much you'll have a hard time choosing! You can go off on your own. Or take a guided tour. You can search ancient ruins or hunt for shopping bargains. Ride a raft over river rapids, a bicycle ride down the side of a 10,000 foot volcano, or ride a horse across miles of hills and beaches. Climb a waterfall or pyramid. See the birthplace of civilization or listen to steel drum bands. Follow the footsteps of history or the wake of a waterskiing boat. If there's still time, play golf or tennis. Eat native foods. Learn how to windsurf. Sun and swim at some of the world's best beaches. Catch a record marlin. Sail, snorkel or go scuba diving. Take a cable car to the top of a mountain. Explore dark catacombs.

In short, a cruise is the easiest way to see new places and do all the things you dream of. Cruising is the perfect way to sample a number of destinations that you may want to return to for another vacation...and you never have to pack and unpack - the destinations come to you!

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Do I have to participate in the activities?

On a cruise, you do what you want to. You can do everything. Or lie back and do absolutely nothing. It's your vacation.

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