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Let’s talk about cruise travel with NCL - £300 voucher to be won

(450 Posts)
YanaGransnet (GNHQ) Tue 20-Aug-19 10:05:48

Cruise holidays can be an ideal option for those who love a care-free holiday, visiting new cities or having different scenery every day without the hassle of unpacking more than once. Whether you’ve been on a cruise or not, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) would like to hear your thoughts. If you’re an experienced cruise-goer they’d love to hear your top tips, and what you wish you'd known before your first cruise. And, if you’ve never been on a cruise, they would also like to find out what you would find helpful before going on a holiday at sea.

Here’s what NCL has to say: “New to cruising? Not sure what to expect? Look no further – this handy guide tells you everything you need to know about holidays at sea. From accommodation choices to entertainment, what to pack and what to do on board, we’ve demystified cruising and you’ll discover why it really is the perfect holiday choice for everyone.”

So what are your tips and tricks when selecting a cruise holiday and how do you make sure it is an enjoyable experience? What are your expectations of a cruise holiday and what are the must-haves on board you can’t go without? How do you prepare and what do you pack for a cruise? How can cruise companies make it your perfect holiday at sea?

If you haven’t travelled on a cruise, what would tempt you to do so? What have you heard about cruises that you would like to understand more about? Now is the time to indulge in your curiosity of cruise holidays.

Please share your views on cruise holidays and you will be entered into a prize draw where one GNer will win a £300 voucher for a store of your choice (from a list).

Thanks and good luck!
GNHQ
Terms and conditions apply

dani4 Fri 23-Aug-19 09:33:57

We've been on a couple of cruises and I really enjoyed seeing new places every day, meeting new people and the fabulous shows at night. However, my husband was not that keen as he prefers long walks in the countryside and taking a more peaceful holiday away from the crowds, so I doubt if we'll be going on another one in the near future!

MrRichTea Fri 23-Aug-19 09:30:51

Cruises offer something extra over normal holidays, it's like a moving city, i love'em!

ujhunt1961 Fri 23-Aug-19 09:22:04

I love cruises, they are mobile 6* hotels ,you get to experience all the stops and get a great feel for each country, a fantastic way to travel.

jgm99 Fri 23-Aug-19 09:00:13

Not been on one yet but it seems a good idea having everything on tap while you tour the world.

franklintuesday Fri 23-Aug-19 08:04:55

I've never been on a cruise, but I like the sound of them and I am looking at the moment for next spring..

valseal Fri 23-Aug-19 07:40:19

I love cruise holidays but am seasick on ocean cruises so prefer river ones.

Peonyrose Fri 23-Aug-19 05:50:28

IT all looks very good. Read the online information they mention. However, what is there in the information to appeal or accommodate a single passenger? There is a vast market out there, more single people than ever before, wanting to travel, see different places and do it safely. I never look at NCL because of this and also they do nothing to make the journey from home to port doable. Cunard, P and O and Fred Olsen have, by having links with a coach company where they cover this from designated local pick up points.this is required for people with mobility issues and the elderly. If they did this I would pick up the brochure.

BBbevan Fri 23-Aug-19 02:58:20

You do not have to share a table. We usually opt for a table for 2 if we are on our own. When we went for our 50 th. anniversary with all the family we had a table for 8

AuntDahlia Thu 22-Aug-19 22:33:17

I've been on both sea and river cruises, and I do love the fact that you unpack once, and that's it! Cruising's a wonderful way to see lots of places with minimum effort, but I think it's important to choose your cruise carefully to suit your preferences – I've always gone on study tours, and would have found it very frustrating to be rushed around destinations I'd waited a lifetime to see. For the same reason I prefer small ships, though they have fewer dining options. One downside – having to share tables with people you may not have much in common with is a pain when you're expected to keep up polite conversation during the meal!

katieskatie82 Thu 22-Aug-19 22:23:14

i've always wanted to go on a cruise! We're actually looking at finally booking one for all the family next year! I cant wait! We're looking at the Nordic cruises!

annarack Thu 22-Aug-19 22:22:11

great for multi generational trips. love waking up somewhere new each day.

carowood Thu 22-Aug-19 20:39:51

I absolutely love cruising. So much easier than coach, car or train touring. You are so well looked after and you only have to unpack and repack once.

sheebasima Thu 22-Aug-19 20:32:39

A cruise is the best way to meet people, make new friends and see the world.

caocao Thu 22-Aug-19 19:54:30

I like the idea of a cruise but would like to know for sure whether a large cruise liner would mean I wouldn't be seasick!

sootyo Thu 22-Aug-19 19:02:10

Choose a cruise with interesting ports, and enjoy the day exploring ashore. Then return to the ship for a delicious evening meal , followed by entertainment.

emmmaaa26 Thu 22-Aug-19 18:40:59

Never been on one but would really like to. I'm scared of flying so would love to do a no fly cruise.

ljcon Thu 22-Aug-19 17:11:45

I absolutely love waking up in a new destination most days, compared to an average land based holiday.

Theres so much variety to do on a cruise, whether visit the spa or relax in a bar

My favourite part is dressing up on formal evenings and meeting new people.

Oh and the views of the Ocean at night are Devine!

Wammer Thu 22-Aug-19 16:47:29

We’ve been considering a cruise as a family. I’ve looked at NCL and other liners. Having never cruised I’m concerned about keeping an 18 and 15 year old busy. I would hate to spend hard earned money on a family cruise if they hated it. After all, if they are happy it means we get a peaceful and relaxing holiday. Is there enough for them to do on board ? Do many teenagers travel on cruise holidays ? I’m sure they would love to visit the sights it’s just whilst on board.

ha2el Thu 22-Aug-19 16:24:17

I have been on two cruises with different companies in the past. And I have found that it is worth paying a bit extra to get a better cabin. A balcony is fabulous and needn't cost too much if you leave it a bit closer to the cruise date to book.

rwgray Thu 22-Aug-19 15:11:39

looking forward to a Nile Cruise, when we have the time...

krobinson79 Thu 22-Aug-19 14:57:50

The best piece of advice I can give is to do your research before you even book. Different cruise lines have different 'vibes' and are different in what they include so what seems expensive at first glance might not be if it's all inclusive - some cruise companies have a basic low price but by the time you've added in tips and drinks it could be much more expensive. Then research the ports you want to see and if you can just get off the ship & have a walk, a coffee/beer and what there is to see. Some ports are prettier than others. The costs of excursions can vary enormously. I've got loads of other tips too & could go on for ever. We've done 5 cruises and it's by far my most favourite way to holiday - you have so much choice!

kpdchudleigh Thu 22-Aug-19 14:22:57

Now I can choose holidays for myself the idea of seeing lots of different places in one trip is so appealing. However, I am reluctant to take a cruise as it's expensive for solo travellers and I feel I'd be a spare wheel where formal dinners are concerned. I wish the pricing was more transparent too as the additional flight costs, drinks and excursions are a concern.

nanjen Thu 22-Aug-19 14:16:46

I’ve never cruised but would be tempted by a wonderful destination

frenchbulldog19 Thu 22-Aug-19 14:14:45

Been on 3 cruises best holidays ever! A great way to travel like a floating Hotel

nhart Thu 22-Aug-19 14:09:43

Not been on one yet always considered it to be for older travellers. It looks very romantic though.