Hop on the "Upward Curve" for your next Cruise Vacation!
If you are in the middle of your child-raising years and are looking for a family vacation ignore this post! But, if you are looking for a break from those responsibilities -OR- have moved past that phase of your life, chances are pretty good that you don't want to board a ship that is loaded with families with young children.
Family travel (including family reunions) is huge these days... and that means kids everywhere - even during times of the year when you might think they are in school and even on premium lines such as Holland America and Princess.
There is an escape! The luxury lines are, by virtue of their "price point", true adult-oriented experiences. My wife and I will become "Empty Nesters" in September and are looking forward to a luxury cruise with Seabourn Cruise Line in October! On our first Seabourn cruise in 2000, we were in the 'taking a break' mode and we are looking forward to returning to the Seabourn Spirit as members of the second group that I identified above. Seabourn is one of four luxury lines from which you can choose. Along with Silversea, Crystal and Regent Seven Seas the fares on the "Elegant Four" seem quite "dear" but when you avail yourself of the many discount offerings and when you consider that everything is included - gourmet dining (for which there is a surcharge on other lines), all cocktails, fine wines and all gratuities - experiencing the best is really not all that much more expensive than a "premium class" cruise... with all those families on board!
Note: There is a new cruise line that positions itself between the premium class (Princess, Holland America, etc.) and the luxury lines. Oceania Cruise Line is what we refer to as "premium plus" in that you still pay for beverages and the gratuities are not included but the level of the cuisine and service is slightly better - and Oceania "does nothing to encourage children".
If you would like my recommendations on the right line for you, send me an email!
Cheers,
Dick
