Riverboat Cruises vs. Ocean Cruises: Which is for You?

When it comes to taking a cruise, you have a decision to make. Do you want to cruise the river, or the ocean?

Both types of cruising offer the ultimate in relaxation, onboard activities, and offshore excursions. No matter which you choose, you’ll see the world and experience new cultures and people. However, river and ocean cruising differ in several ways:

• River cruising offers a more intimate setting than ocean cruising. You’ll cruise the river on a smaller ship, and you’ll receive more personalized service than ocean cruisers.
• Unlike ocean ships, most cabins on a river cruise ship have a window view. The cabins tend to be more spacious as well, but not always.
• On the ocean, typical activities include a shipboard casino, several boutiques, and Vegas-style shows. Typically, river cruising ships do not have onboard casinos, and their onboard activities tend to focus on discovering the region and its culture. You’re more likely to enjoy lectures, cooking classes, and wine tasting.

• River cruise ships pass by large cities, medium-sized towns, and small burgs. They dock close to city centers for easy access to shore and ship. You’ll have more opportunity to get to know the locals and see authentic culture. Ocean cruise ships dock in coastal cities, which are often tourist-oriented areas, and you may not have as much exposure to the locals.
• On the ocean, you might sail for hours or days without seeing land. River cruising is a constant vista of spectacular scenery such as majestic castles and charming villages.
• On shore, river cruise entertainment, excursions, and dining are locally owned and staffed, so your experiences will be culturally authentic. Ocean cruises tend to offer popular, well-known shore excursions that many others have experienced.

While both river and ocean cruising involve relaxation, superb service, sumptuous food, and water, the differences between the two are significant and could be a consideration as you plan your cruise.

Have you ever been on a river cruise, ocean cruise, or both? 

101 Things To Do on a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing: Part 6

By now you’re beginning to see why Cunard Line published this list on their website, and in their new electronic brochure for transatlantic cruises. Queen Mary 2 is probably now the most famous destination between New York and London, carrying more passengers transatlantic than any other cruise liners. It is the definition of luxury travel, and getting there is truly half the fun. Truly an icon for the modern era, Queen Mary 2 has all of the majesty of her historic Cunard predecessors, plus a complete list of amenities to appeal to the 21st-century sensibilities of its clients. Show Stoppers and Life’s Simpler Pleasures make up our final post in the series of 101 Things To Do on a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing. I’m certain you’ll see why.

Show Stoppers

64.  Dance, dine and enjoy music from the classical to salsa at the Captain’s Black and White Ball.
65.  Watch 16 sensational dancers and singers from Europe perform in the extravagant Apassionata at the Royal Court Theatre.
66.  Delight in our newest musical show, Crazy in Love – laced with satire and a spake of romance.
67.  Take a salsa, cha cha or Latin dancing class, then try line dancing in the Queen’s Room.
68.  Delight to the performance of Oscar Wilde’s famous comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest, at the Royal Court Theatre.
69.  Join the pianist in the Gold Lion Pub for a chorus of “Ship of Fools”.
70.  Enjoy live jazz in the Chart Room…
71.  …Or classical concerts in Illuminations.
72.  Relive the Golden Age of Travel, when Tommy Dorsey and Glenn Miller ruled, with Big Band Night in the Queen’s Room.
73.  Take a complimentary gaming lesson in the Casino, then see if what you learned pays off at the tables.
74.  Let loose and boogie down in the stylish G32 nightclub.
75.  Join Robert Redford – or at least his voice – for Cosmic Collisions, a riveting film on cosmic phenomena presented by the American Museum of Natural History.
76.  Enjoy the serene sounds of a piano and violin trio in the Grand Lobby.
77.  Experience Viva Italia! – our new original Cunard musical celebrating everything Italian.

Life’s Simpler Pleasures

78.  Drop into the largest library at sea. With over 8,000 books, it’s sure to have at least one of those titles you’ve been meaning to read, and now have time to.
79.  Send a postcard to friends, stamped “Posted Onboard – QUEEN MARY 2 -Transatlantic Crossing” at the traditional red Royal mail postbox onboard-a symbol of Cunard’s history as the first provider of mail service between England and America.
80.  Embark on a literary journey at a meeting of the Cunard Book Club.
81.  Find your favorite vintage Cunard poster in the bookshop to take home.
82.  Schedule a primping and manicure in the Canyon Ranch Spa Salon before the Captain’s Cocktail Party.
83.  Attend a book signing with the best selling mystery author Dick Francis.
84.  Check out the gorgeous pavé earring set at H. Stern in the Mayfair Shops
85.  Drop the kids off for fun in The Play Zone.
86.  Learn critical survival skills like napkin folding or knitting with the Social Hostess.
87.  Join a dart competition at the Golden Lion Pub.
88.  Buy an extra bag for all you’re bringing home from the Logo Shop.
89.  Join musicians and fellow guests for an afternoon sing-along in the Grand Lobby – lyrics included.
90.  Admire the $18,000 “Happy Queen Mary 2″ watch at Chopard. (You can dream)
91.  Take a glass elevator ride to the observation deck for a sky-high ocean adventure.
92.  Laugh ’till you cry at John Cleese who’s appearing in the Royal Court Theatre.
93.  Practice your karaoke at The Golden Lion Pub.
94.  Enjoy a nighttime turnaround on the Promenade Deck and stargaze.
95.  Pamper yourself with a facial or pedicure at Canyon Ranch Spa Club.
96.  Attend a champagne art auction and bring home a memory in oil or watercolor.
97.  You’ve always wanted to learn shuffleboard, right? Here’s your chance!
98.  Pick up some gifts for those poor souls back home in the Mayfair Shops.
99.  Relax like a celebrity, in true Golden Age style, on a Deck 7 teak chair, and check The Crossing off your life list.
100.  Let an Ayurvedic massage prepare you for your return to the real world.
101.  Six days aboard Queen Mary 2 is not nearly enough time – so visit the onboard sales office to begin planning your next Cunard
voyage!

What is your favorite part of a transatlantic crossing on a larger ship?

All images are courtesy of Cunard Cruise Line

101 Things To Do on a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing: Part 5

Now that we have virtually sampled our way through the bountiful and delicious dining options, it is time to decide whether to work on keeping our figure fit and healthy or keep on celebrating the good times. Maybe we will try a little of both! Queen Mary 2 offers the opportunity and possibility to do it all.

Today’s categories are Fitness Fare – to offers you a wealth of suggestions for keeping the figure in its original state if you’re fit, or getting that “out of control” shape back into a workable frame; and Cordially Yours – to keep the celebrations going. No matter which direction you go, it will be a good choice!

Fitness Fare

48.  Now that you’ve mastered St. Andrews, hit the links at Pebble Beach or any of the 51 courses available on the golf simulator.
49.  Take some Canyon Ranch fitness classes like YogaLates and spinning. Follow up with a latté or spin through King’s Court.
50.  Awaken with a brisk walk or jog around the third mile Promenade Deck.
51.  Demonstrate your superior wrist/eye coordination in a Table Tennis Tournament.
52.  Revitalise body and mind in the Canyon Ranch SpaClub Aqua Therapy Pool, where the water jets massage your every muscle.
53.  Feeling energetic? Test your strength at the Indoor Cycling Power Hour.
54.  Sign up with a personal trainer in the Fitness Centre and work off the calories.
55.  Prove to yourself that you can still make jump shots on the basketball court.
56.  Show off your swing at the Longest Drive Competition.
57.  Work up a sweat at the Canyon Ranch Gymnasium-one of the largest and best equipped sports facilities at sea.
58.  Paddle tennis anyone? Get to know new friends even better over a friendly match.
59.  Make up for that baked waffle; swim a few laps in the domed Pavilion Pool.

Cordially Yours
60.  Enjoy one of 50 different martinis and the detailed scale model of Queen Mary 2 in the Commodore Club.
61.  Meet old friends for drinks in the cozy Chart Room, or pop in alone and make some new ones.
62.  Puff a fine cigar while sampling an aged Napoleon Cognac in Churchill’s.
63.  Unwind with a soothing nightcap in a lounge before heading off to dreamland.

We are coming to an end in the voyage.  Next in our series is Show Stoppers and Life’s Simple Pleasures to depart on a high note.

All images are courtesy of Cunard Cruise Lines

101 Things To Do on a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing: Part 4

Now let’s get to the meat and potatoes of the cruise – so to speak. Today’s category covers Fine Dining and Divine Wining. There is an abundance of restaurants and lounges onboard for your dining and drinking enjoyment, and all served on the finest of china and glassware afloat! Celebrate the exciting choices to select from for your culinary pleasures onboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2.

Fine Dining and Divine Wining

32.  Welcome the morning with a cappuccino and pastry at Sir Samuel’s.

33.  Enjoy a jolly good pub lunch, perhaps fish & chips?  –  at the Golden Lion Pub.
34.  Live la dolce vita with Spaghetti Puttanesca and other Italian specialties at La Piazza.
35.  Sample the Pan Roasted Turbot Fillet at the trendy Todd English restaurant or try the extraordinary tapas.
36.  Indulge in five courses including snow crab soup, duck spring rolls and more at Lotus.
37.  Watch the bubbles rise in your Waterford flute at Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar.
38.  Join the chief sommelier to sample sangiovese, dolcetto, and other varietals as you taste your way across Northern Italy.
39.  Hone your culinary skills at a cooking demo and feast in Chef’s Galley.
40.  Start the day in a sinfully decadent way with a baked waffle, maple syrup, and whipped cream in King’s Court.
41.  Counting calories? Try Canyon Ranch Spa Selections, available at every meal.
42.  Burger lovers rejoice! Follow the crowd to the Boardwalk Café.
43.  Mais oiu! Celebrate with a bottle of Chateau Lafite Rothschild from the largest wine cellar at sea.
44.  Is that the sound of a trolley? Why yes, it’s Afternoon Tea on the Promenade Deck.
45.  Fall in love with a signature truffle Love Letters appetizer in Todd English.
46.  Order in from room service. After all, it’s available 24 hours a day.
47.  Choose from the cheese trolley and enjoy some vintage ruby port at Sir Samuel’s.

Did we whet your appetite with the many cruise dining options? 

Next in our series is Fitness Fare for those who may overindulge in food and wine and Cordially Yours for those who want to keep on celebrating!

All images are courtesy of Cunard Cruise Lines

101 Things To Do on a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing: Part 3

Cunard truly believes its heritage is one of its utmost important assets. It has been a voyage of dreams for nearly two centuries. A travel tradition. Today’s installation of the 101 Things To Do on a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing covers one of my favorites!  Here are just a few of the on-board activities that may spark that nostalgia.

Thoroughly British Moments

25.  Don’t miss Afternoon Tea in the Queen’s Room, complete with scones, fresh cream, strawberry jam and white gloved servers.
26.  Toast your good fortune to be here over a pint or two at the Golden Lion Pub.
27.  Get a deck quoits lesson from that nice English couple you met at breakfast.
28.  Savour fork tender roast beef at The Carvery – a true English specialty.
29.  Watch actors from RADA perform scenes from your favorite Shakespeare plays.
30.  Play a round of golf at the one that started it all, St. Andrews, on the golf simulator.
31.  What does it feel like to be royalty? Dress to the nines for the sophisticated Ascot Ball and experience for yourself!

The departure from what we experience in our lives every day makes this section so great. Who does not love fresh hot scones? If nothing else, the cruise experience is like a step back in time with the modern conveniences of today.

What is your favorite part so far? 

Next, we will present Fine Dining and Divine Wining.

All images are courtesy of Cunard Cruise Lines

101 Things To Do on a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing: Part 2

Our continuation of the Cunard Line Queen Mary 2’s list of 101 things to do on a transatlantic crossing covers the Cultural Affairs category. If you missed part 1 of our series, you can view it here. Each new post, I’ll be adding to the list that was originally published in the Cunard Line 2010 Transatlantic Crossing. Thought provoking from the perspective that you are only limited by your own imagination as to what you can do on-board. We hope you find some inspiring cruise ideas.

Here is the next list of things to do under Cultural Affairs.

11.  Capture memories on your digital camera and have them printed in the onboard photo lab.
12.  Renew your wedding vows and enjoy a ceremony conducted by the Captain.
13.  Brush up on your Excel spreadsheet skills at a computer learning class in ConneXions.
14.  Sit in on a reading by mystery author P.D. James followed by a book signing.
15.  Have a body composition analysis with experts in the Fitness Centre.
16.  Be inspired to start your own epic tome at a workshop with a published novelist.
17.  Strap yourself into your seat and enjoy a virtual ride through space in Illuminations – the only Planetarium at sea.
18.  Head to Deck 2 to begin a Cunard history lesson with the Maritime Quest Exhibit. The 10 historical “pathways” located throughout the ship include A Great History, On the Bridge, Stars Aboard and more.
19.  Attend a lecture about Beethoven’s Fidelio and find out why it was his only opera.
20.  Enjoy the classic works of the great 20th Century masters such as Dali, Chagall, Erte, and Picasso in the Art Gallery.
21.  Take a third and final Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) workshop, “Speaking the Speech”. You’ll learn to perform a Shakespeare monolog.
22.  Listen to the dramatic reading of The Old Man and the Sea in Illuminations.
23.  Shiver me timbers. Sit in on a lecture about piracy with English diplomacy expert, Vincent Strudwick.
24.  Brush up on your Russian, French, Spanish, or even Mandarin. Parlez vous chinois?

Are you dreaming of a transatlantic crossing voyage yet? Share with us what cruise journey you have been deeply enriched on. 

Next, we will present Thoroughly British Moments.

All images are courtesy of Cunard Cruise Lines

101 Things To Do on a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing: Part 1

Have you ever wondered what all there is to do on a transatlantic crossing cruise? Cunard offers a timeless adventure, an iconic experience. What a fun piece to share with you to show that transatlantic cruises can be fun, relaxing, and provide a wealth of things to do. Cunard offers so much inspiration that I will divide the activities up over a six part series. You will learn about Leisurely Pursuits, Cultural Affairs, Thoroughly British Moments, Fine Dining & Divine Wining, Fitness Fare, Cordially Yours, Show Stoppers and Life’s Simpler Pleasures. So relax, sit back, and enjoy what the possibilities are on a transatlantic cruise aboard the Queen Mary 2.

The first category is Leisurely Pursuits.

1. Relax in the soaring Grand Lobby and enjoy the angelic melodies of the harpist.
2. Take a watercolour class and paint your own impressions of “The Crossing”.
3. Play duplicate bridge in the Atlantic Room.
4. Be forward looking. From the Sports Deck, head to The Lookout – an observation platform with endless views of the bow.
5. Log onto the Internet and stay in touch with the outside world.
6. Take a “Finding Your Voice” or “Filling the Space” acting course with Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).
7. Invite new friends over for a cocktail party with canapés in your stateroom.
8. Learn more bridge conventions from an ACBL Certified Master Instructor.
9. Spend a lazy afternoon with a recently released film in Illuminations.
10. Hit or stand your hand at the Blackjack Tournament in the Empire Casino.

Are you dreaming of a transatlantic crossing voyage yet? Share with us where the longest voyage is your have taken.

Next, we will present Cultural Affairs.

All images are courtesy of Cunard Cruise Lines

Top Tips For First Time Cruisers

On departing Vancouver this past Sunday, I had the good fortune of chatting with a few cruisers that had just finished an Alaskan cruise.  I like hearing different people’s perspective, speaking with them about what they liked and did not like as well as the things they were unaware of.

I think of cruising is kind of like dating. It is great when you are with the RIGHT match, and by that I mean you and your traveling companions are paired up with the right cruise line and the cruise vessel for you. What one person feels is the best, may not be the same as the next. Personal preference plays a huge factor in this. Just like in dating you may not be attracted to every person on the dates you go on. Cruising can be very complicated and challenging when you don’t know - what you don’t know. Some first time cruisers think after they have paid-in-full for their dream vacation cruise that they are done and everything is included. Unfortunately they learn the lesson that this is not true after the fact.

Like dating, you have to DREAM about all the aspects you want on your cruise:

Courtesy of Seabourn

• what activities you will do- read and relax by the pool or explore every port or a mix? do you want to gamble? do you like nightlife? would you prefer to stay overnight in a certain port? are there children’s programs? do you need all kinds of activities for all kinds of age and taste ranges? what destinations do you want to visit? do you want mainstream ports or off the beaten path ports? is the ship your destination or are the ports?  does the ship have shopping? what kind of fitness options are available? do you want to have some spa treatments? do you have to make appointment for your entertainment or can you just show up?
• what is your cabin is like- is it cozy or spacious? is there a bathtub? are there two sinks? is there a vanity outside the bathroom? is your cabin close to the elevators or under the dance club? if you are sailing from east to west around Italy for example, does your cabin face the view of the coast or of the ocean? do you need connecting cabins? do you need a wheelchair accessible cabin?
• what your view is like- is there a window or is inside cabin OK? is there a balcony or is it just a window? is your balcony covered or is it uncovered?  does the window have an obstructed view?
• what the meals and beverages are like – is there a line to be seated? is it buffet style or do you have servers? is the dining open seating or scheduled? what kinds of beverages are included in the price? do the specialty dining rooms charge? will you eat with the same people every meal or can you mix it up? can they meet your special diet requirements?
• how many people are around - does the ship have 5000 guests, 2000 guests, 1200 guests, 600 guests, 450 guests, 200 guests or as few as 8 guests? what is the staff to guest ratio? will you be able to secure a lounge chair by the pool each day? how long will it take for your to disembark in port?
• what are a few of the extras you need to be aware of - are gratuities auto paid or do you need to pay them upon disembarkation? do you owe gratuities at all or is that included? are the pool cabanas an extra charge? are there days of the week that things go on sale? are there better days to eat in certain restaurants? is there a better time to book you spa appointment? is the spa treatment included? is the shore excursion included? can I book a separate excursion? are there formal dress nights? do you have butler or concierge service with your cabin? is your air flight included? do they carry your brand of beverage? do you get fresh fruit in your cabin each day? do you have to take a tender to land or are you walking off directly dockside? do you get seasick easily? are transfers included?

Courtesy of Oceania

Now is the time to PLAN and prioritize what are must haves and what are nice to haves.  The best way to get the most on your list is to plan early. Gone are the days of the last minute discounts, in fact many cruise lines are discounting for early reservations. I recommend employing a travel specialist to assist you in getting the best cabin, fare, and available amenities rather than going at it on your. Many travel advisors have access to special upgrades, excursions, and more that you will not find access to on your own or without a lot of time spent researching.

Once you are booked then it is time to TRAVEL and enjoy the vacation. As you are completing the cruise, many lines offer a discount to book your next cruise while on board. Definitely an offer to consider. And finally it is time to REPEAT the cycle and begin dreaming of your next vacation.

What are some of the cruising lessons you would like to share with other first time cruisers?

Dream. Plan. Travel. Repeat.

Vancouver, Here I Am

Today, I am traveling to Vancouver for the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) 360, an annual event. This event offers ship inspections, educational sessions and networking opportunities that are specific to the cruise industry.

My hotel of choice is the Fairmont Waterfront, being just steps aways from Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal. It is also within walking distance to the central business district, Gastown, Robson Street, Pacific Center shopping mall, and the Vancouver Art Gallery. In the back of my mind I am thinking, who has time for a convention when I could be exploring the seawall to Stanley Park, a 1000 acre park in the center of the city and larger than New York City’s Central Park? So much to do and so little free time.

Personally, I am excited because it has been several years since I moved from Seattle to Dallas. Frankly, I really miss the scenic views of snow covered mountains, oceans, evergreens and the very cosmopolitan vibe. Don’t get me wrong, I like Dallas but it is very different from the Pacific Northwest! In Dallas, June means we are already in the mid to upper 90’s every day, where Vancouver is forecasting low 60’s for their highs. I also look forward to the amazing assortment of fruits and veggies along with a nice fresh piece of Salmon.  I digress.

Professionally, I am excited because this is when I can learn at a rapid rate about ALL the cruise lines that I am most interested in – up close and personal,  meet the reps I have not met face to face yet and strengthen those networking connections.  Celebrating 4 days of cruise information.  Cruising is not a big business for nothing!

In a very few short days, some of my favorite clients are departing on a week long cruise in Alaska on American Safari Cruises. What a great birthday gift they are enjoying! With so many kinds of cruising from River Cruising like I just did in Europe, to Small Ship Cruising, Classic and Large Ship Cruising. I can guarantee there is something for everyone! The key is in knowing the brands and what they offer in order to best match each traveler to the perfect ship and itinerary.

What is your favorite part about cruising?