January and February are often thought of as cold and dark months where many feel inclined to hibernate after busy fall activities and even busier holidays.
For those of us in the travel industry, these months represent the peak of Wave Season, when cruise lines inundate advisors with special deals on upcoming and future voyages. Earlier this year, my husband Chris and I decided to take advantage of one of these great rates and set sail to commemorate our 20th anniversary.
ChrisWilkes at Chacchoben Mayan Ruins
Having never been much of a cruiser myself, I understand why travelers are wary of climbing aboard. Some are put off by images of long buffet lines, tiny per capita pools, or even the concern for contracting an illness while on board. When I boarded the Scarlet Lady in March, a Virgin ship fresh out of a months-long dry dock renovation, I had my own reservations, but I was very pleasantly surprised by the whole experience.
The dining options were immense, with a 24-hour food hall complete with coffee bar, gelato station, and several grills that changed daily, as well as six on board restaurants featuring Michelin chef-curated menus at a steakhouse, a test kitchen, a Mexican cantina, an Italian bistro and our personal favorite, a Korean Barbecue experience that paired you with 4-6 other guests for a fun dinner party vibe. Each bite was outstanding, with the winning dish being the grilled shrimp appetizer served at the casual tapas bar overlooking the back of the boat and eaten on a lounge chair (which were aplenty) with a book in hand.
Our rooms were impeccably clean and comfortable, with every balcony outfitted with its own hammock, and we enjoyed cultural immersions and excursions at each port – touring the Chacchoben Mayan City outside of Mahahual, Mexico; an island tour and seaside lunch on Roatán, Honduras; and eating conch right out of the water in Bimini, Bahamas – all while only unpacking once.
Fresh conch
Before we disembarked, we were already planning our next voyage!
While cruising may not be for everyone, the industry definitely offers something for everyone. When our ship pulled into ports, we saw roller coasters on top of a Carnival boat and a full-scale water park on Royal Caribbean’s new Icon of the Seas. If you’re a fan of Masterpiece on PBS, you’ve seen the Viking ads that feature the popular adults-only European river cruise line sailing down the Danube past castles, then stopping for a wine tasting or cooking class. Companies like Silversea and The Ritz-Carlton offer a five-star yachting experience, and lines like Lindblad partner with National Geographic for expedition experiences to destinations such as the Galápagos Islands and the Inside Passage of Alaska.
If you’re ready to set sail, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Meal presentation at a test kitchen
The earlier you can book, the better! Not only to receive the best rates, but to secure the best cabin placement. Many prefer midship for less movement and being farther from the elevators for quiet.
Have a clear idea of the type of experience you’re looking for, as well as your ideal destination. With so many options to choose from, it will save you time if you’re looking for an adults-only option, like Virgin or Viking, or a family-friendly option, like Royal Caribbean or Norwegian.
Cruises are great for multi-generational groups that need to accommodate varying travel needs and entertainment preferences. Many offer kids’ clubs from baby to teens, giving the adults time to relax after a day of exploring together.
Hilary and Chris at Bimini, Bahamas
Ask the right questions! If you are active military, an EMT, a police officer, a volunteer firefighter, or an AARP member, you may be eligible for discounted rates. First-time cruises may also get a special discount if this is your first booking with a line.
If you feel overwhelmed or do not know where to start, work with a travel advisor to help you identify your needs and then pair you with the ideal selection. Advisors often have access to discounted packages and rates and receive perks for guests such as shipboard credits or specialty dining offers.
As you plan your future travels, consider setting sail for your destination. Be it traversing the fjords of Norway or New Zealand, coasting down the Nile past the Valley of the Kings, or ziplining across the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean, the 38 million people who will cruise this year may be on to something!
Hilary is a local travel advisor and works personally with clients to plan trips around the world. She also plans and leads group trips through her family’s store, Highland Hiker. Learn more at scouttravelco.com and highlandhiker.com.
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