Cruises are one of the most popular types of travel across the world. And yet, there’s so many people who have no idea just how cruises work or why they are so popular. Add on top of this plenty of misconceptions and myths, and you’ll find lots of travellers who have never been on a cruise or even considered one before. Well, in this blog we are dissecting the facts, dividing the truth from the myths, and busting your misconceptions of cruising. Plus, you’ll find out some fascinating facts you probably didn’t know about cruises.
5 unknown cruising facts
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Some people opt to retire on a cruise ship
Although this isn’t in the realm of possibilities for all retirement age adults, there are some lucky few who have saved their hard-earned pennies to spend their retirement cruising. From taking world cruises to spending months and months at sea. This is surely one of the best ways to spend the later years of your life. And what’s great about so many modern cruise ships is that medical experts are available to access onboard. Capable of offering many of the medical guidance and support you would typically find on land. Having a doctor onboard provides that extra peace of mind for passengers who may have long-term health conditions or are worried about getting sick at sea.
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The majority of outdoor pools on a cruise ship are saltwater
You are at sea after all! So, it may not come as much of a surprise to discover that the outdoor pools across many of the major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, are filled with saltwater. But don’t worry, this is perfectly safe for swimming and has been filtered to ensure the pool is clean and hygienic for all passengers to swim and enjoy safely.
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Cruise ships travel at around an average speed of 23 miles per hour
If you are worried about the motion of sailing, this fact should make you feel slightly better. A rather slow average speed, some passengers are often surprised to discover that cruise ships do not speed along the oceans, in fact they’re sailing at a relatively relaxing and calm pace. Some passengers have even noted, due to the size of the ship and the pace, they do not notice the vessel moving.
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The average cruise ship carries 3,000 passengers
Meanwhile some of the largest cruise ships carry upwards of 6,000 passengers. And despite this number of passengers, there’s plenty of room onboard a modern cruise ship to ensure every passenger has the holiday of a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, you’ll find it all on a cruise holiday!
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While cruising you could incur high data roaming charges
Something that a lot of people tend to ignore is the potential for high data roaming charges while at sea. Much like when you are visiting one new destination, travelling the seas means being stung by cellular charges at sea, which for many can reach hundreds of pounds/dollars. While at sea, the best recommendation is to switch your phone to airplane mode, turn it off completely, or access the ship’s wi-fi, making sure to turn off data roaming in your settings.
Separating the facts from the fiction
- Not all food is included in your cruise fare – many first time cruise passengers are quick to assume that every meal is included. From breakfast to lunch to dinner and even snacks. While many of your meals, specifically main meals will be included in your fare, not all the food on a cruise ship is included. Some cruise lines do however, offer additional drinks and food packages which you can add to your cruise booking. Despite this though, it is always best to step on board with some spending money to hand, just in case.
- Seasickness is not as common as most people think – thanks to the modern design of cruise ships, there’s enough stability and motion control to ensure that all passengers feel comfortable while at sea. If seasickness is something you are concerned about, there are a few ways you can combat this. Either by ensuring you have motion sickness tablets to hand, or booking a room with an ocean view so you can have regular access to fresh air and a view of that all important horizon.
- Cruises are suitable for passengers of all ages – one common myth that is often thought of when people are asked if they would like to take a cruise is that cruises are for the elderly. This is entirely not the case. While there are many cruise lines that offer the perfect facilities for older passengers, there are also many lines that specialise in family cruises, cruises for under 30s, party cruises, and cruises for solo or single travellers. With so many cruises to choose from, there’s sure to be one that suits your needs.
- Cruise ships are massive and are home to hundreds of activities and facilities – yes, you may be ‘stuck’ onboard for a few days at sea but you will certainly not be short of things to do. Which debunks the myth that cruises are boring or that you would ever be bored on a cruise ship. From roller skating to roller coasters, go karting to archery and mini golf, as well as spa, casinos, dining options and more, modern cruise ships are literally floating cities. You could spend days at sea exploring these vast vessels before ever running out of things to do.
- Cruise cabins come in all shapes and sizes – while you may be concerned about feeling cramped and having to share a small bathroom with your travelling companion for weeks, cabins are actually far more practical and comfortable than they used to be. On modern cruise ships you can choose from a wide selection of staterooms, suited to your travelling requirements with a range of luxuries.
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