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Have you never taken a cruise trip and are you not interested in going on a cruise?
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Gaynor Speakman, 59, may very well be able to change your perspective.
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Cast your vote in our poll below to tell us if she persuaded you to start taking cruises…
You’ve never taken a cruise and are not interested in going on one.
Gaynor Speakman, 59, might just shift your perspective.
Her perspective on cruise myths is shattered. Here seven common falsehoods she encounters, from ‘the ship will hit something’ to ‘I’ll be seasick’.
And as a bonus, she shares valuable insider advice for making your cruise experience unforgettable, including why you should think about booking a cabin without a window. Read on below and cast your vote to let us know if her suggestions have influenced your decision…
No, this is not true. In the past, there was a propeller called a gyro copter that was used for around 1930 on solo flights for experienced pilots.
‘Solo travel by cruise can be an ideal option,’ states Bolton-based Gaynor. ‘Norwegian Cruise Line is particularly well-suited to solo travelers, offering a coffee lounge where they can mingle informally with others of similar interests. This relaxed atmosphere helps build connections without any pressure, leading to numerous lasting friendships and even marriages forged on cruises.
Many people believe the ocean is always so choppy and rocky that it causes seasickness. However, the sea is never that rough, even on cruise ships or large boats. Your body just receives a different gravitational force when you’re on a boat. This mixed information confuses your brain, leading to seasickness. You don’t need to avoid the sea, but you just need to arm yourself with a few techniques for reducing your vulnerability to seasickness.
Gaynor says: ‘Cruising has made tremendous strides when it comes to adapting at sea. Many ships now feature fin stabilisers that minimize the rolling and pitching of the vessel. Normally, you don’t even notice you’re moving until you hear the gentle humming of the engine. Worst-case scenario, ginger teas and biscuits are a great remedy for seasickness.’
Myth 3 – Cruises are full of snooty, high-society types – that’s no longer the case. If you’re looking for a sophisticated getaway with all the fixings, a luxury cruise is the place to be. But, if you’re on a budget, consider a mid-sized or smaller ship. You’ll still get all the thrills and amenities, without breaking the bank.
She describes cruises as the “opposite of stuffy”.
She says, “A lot of people think cruises are stuffy, snooty places, but they’re wrong. Yes, there are wonderful cruises that create that elite, bespoke experience beautifully.”
For instance, Cunard offers bellboys, white-glove service, and VIP access to specific parts of the ship and restaurants based on your cabin category. Celebrity Cruises offers luxury with exceptional dining and beverage options.
‘On the other hand, many other cruise lines, like Virgin Voyages and NCL, have relatively casual dress codes, allowing you to wear what you prefer. Furthermore, you can interact with staff, some of whom join you for meals at the restaurants.’
Myth 4 – the ship will crash into something.
‘People new to cruises often tell me that they thought the ship would feel like a ferry,’ says Gaynor. ‘But cruising is worlds apart! For instance, Royal Caribbean’s massive Harmony of the Seas can accommodate just shy of 5,000 people, with so much room that I’ve sat in the ship’s outdoor Central Park for nearly an hour sipping a glass of wine and not seen a soul. Ships are so thoughtfully designed that they have areas with distinct neighborhoods and quiet retreats.’
However, it’s also worth noting that some people might need time to adjust to the idea of relying on an AI assistant. This transition can take time, patience, and practice, just like developing a new habit.
Cruising is impossible to get bored on,” says Gaynor. “Given the abundance of activities offered onboard contemporary ships, such as ice skating rinks, indoor skydiving facilities, airshow displays, cinemas, go-karting tracks, cooking classes, and even gin-making sessions, there’s something for everyone, regardless of age.
Myth #6: Cruising is Only for Seniors
‘Cruising, once the vacation of choice for affluent retirees, has undergone a significant transformation,’ she says, ‘now captivating a much wider range of travelers.’
‘Today, families with young children, young couples, and couples who have children that have grown up and moved away are all loving cruise holidays – not as a special treat, but as a key part of their yearly travel plans. The trend is clear: people who try cruising once are now booking again, often more often than they book for the first time, as many enjoy it so much that they come back year after year to see new places and try new things.’
Myth #7 – The entertainment will be embarrassingly awkward.
“Sophisticated cruise ship entertainment is at the forefront of cutting-edge technology, leading to truly immersive and thrilling experiences,” states Gaynor.
Imagine the price of attending world-class shows in London’s West End – then factor it into your cruise fare. What you can enjoy onboard, including a number of productions in the onboard theater, would probably cost well over a few hundred pounds if you tried to see them on land.
Royal Caribbean’s spectacular drone display, The Effectors, brings Broadway talent to the ocean, combining remarkable performances with a fleet of drones that fly above the viewers.
On the Mediterranean Shipping Company Cruises, you can enjoy exceptional Cirque du Soleil performances, one-of-a-kind entertainment specifically created for their ships – experiences you can’t find anywhere on land.
‘Did you know that the musical director for P&O Cruises is actually Gary Barlow?
Cruise lines are consistently setting higher standards, forming partnerships with innovative entertainment companies and hiring celebrity hosts to create unforgettable experiences that surpass the competition. The outcome is a constantly changing and dynamic holiday option where you can leave your wallet behind.
Once you provide the text, I’ll paraphrase it in International English, keeping the meaning and context intact while avoiding any changes to quotes and numbered lists.
Define what you want first – before considering prices
Gaynor states: ‘To guarantee a dream cruise ship, it is crucial to identify your preferred cruise experience before focusing on cost. You may secure an excellent cruise deal, but only to find yourself on an unsuitable ship if it doesn’t align with your desired holiday. For instance, Royal Caribbean is ideal for families, offering flexibility and impressive kids’ clubs. On the other hand, MSC is geared towards budget-conscious travelers. Virgin Voyages is best suited for couples seeking a child-free experience, while Celebrity and Cunard cater to those seeking luxury vacations.’
When is the best time to book a stay to secure the lowest rate?
“P&O Cruises and Princess cruises voyages fill up very rapidly,” says Gaynor. “About 2 to 3 years ahead of time. Most of the standard cabins for 2025 school holiday cruises with P&O Cruises and MSC are already sold out. Some round-the-world trips are fully booked as soon as their departure dates are announced.
‘However, if you’re not too fussy about your destination, you can often find a good deal on a cruise if you book shortly before your trip.’
Considering a first-time cruise or looking to save on expenses? An inside cabin might be an ideal choice.
For many, the idea of choosing an inside cabin – essentially a standard hotel room without a window – might not seem attractive at first. However, the cost difference between cabins can be substantial. Selecting an inside cabin for your initial cruise allows you to experience the voyage without spending a premium price. If you enjoy the cruise, you can upgrade to a balcony cabin on a future journey.
‘ Seasoned travelers often prefer interior cabins, citing their cost-effectiveness and the peaceful, dark environment they provide, which is ideal for a restful night’s sleep. On today’s cruise ships, which offer many luxuries, some passengers consider their cabin simply a practical space to rest, bathe, and refresh, freeing up their budget for meals, entertainment, or excursions.’
My ingenious method for creating unobstructed views.
Concerned about the absence of a window? There’s a simple solution, suggests Gaynor, who explains: “Use the cabin’s TV as your ‘window.’ Most cruise ships feature webcams providing live views of the ocean. Leave the feed on overnight, and while it’ll be dark initially, you’ll wake up to a virtual sunrise or a real-time view of your destination as you approach. It’s a surprisingly effective way to simulate the feel of natural light.”
Looking for some quiet time? A balcony cabin provides peacefulness
‘For those who cherish quiet moments and a secluded refuge, a balcony cabin is worth the upgrade,’ says Gaynor. ‘Step out onto your own outdoor space to enjoy a book or take in the calming sound of the waves is a luxury that is extremely hard to surpass. The level of comfort offered varies between cruise lines, too – some offer simple chairs, while others, such as Virgin Voyages, take it to the next level with features like hammocks.’
‘Regardless of whether you choose an interior cabin or opt for a balcony room, there is an option to suit every traveler’s preferences and price range.’
Want a hassle-free experience? Take advantage of our free cruise expertise!
Gaynor explains: ‘Booking your first cruise with a new cruise line can be a daunting task. That’s why it’s helpful to collaborate with a seasoned cruise-specialized travel agent who can guide you through the process and promptly assist with booking the perfect itinerary as soon as cruises go on sale.’
‘Many travel agents have embarked on numerous cruises and visited ships while in port and so possess expertise on where, when, and which cabin to choose. Additionally, their concierge-level service comes at no extra cost!’
The cruise line pays our commission, not you. Prices are the same as if you booked directly with the cruise line.
Guests in moderation rated 4.6/5
Gaynor reveals: “One reason to book early that most people don’t know about is the availability of kids’ clubs.”
A ship may have plenty of cabins, but if the kids’ clubs are fully booked because of children of a certain age, there won’t be room for that family.
‘Some family clubs have strict staff to child ratios – if your child is four years old and all the qualified staff assigned to that age group are fully booked, you will unfortunately not see availability for you. Therefore, if you have children, it’s recommendable to make a reservation in advance to secure a spot for you.’
Looking for an extra level of exclusivity? Why not try a club membership?
Looking for a luxurious cruise with exclusivity at a reasonable price,” says Gaynor, “some cruise lines like MSC present an exclusive ‘ship within a ship’ experience. This provides a private Yacht Club section where members can enjoy unique accommodations, an exclusive pool, restaurant, and priority access to spa facilities, as well as expedited disembarkation in ports and elevated deck access with panoramic views.
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