What do you really know about cruises? You probably already know you can cruise on rivers or the open seas; that the towels are shaped into swans when your cabin is made up; and that people often divide their time between buffets and sun-loungers. While all of the above is correct, it's really just a drop in the ocean when it comes to cruising.
With more new ships calling local waters home in the coming months (including P&Os Pacific Eden, Pacific Aria, and Carnival's Legend), it's full steam ahead for Australian cruise holidays. We could wax lyrical about all the benefits of cruising (great value for money, unpack just once, no lengthy waits at airports, etc), but we'd rather talk about you.
Australian cruisers in particular can't get enough of the South Pacific, are enjoying Europe's scenic waterways, and are going coconuts for cruises to the Caribbean - but cruise holidays are far from being one-size-fits-all. So, what kind of cruiser are you?
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The One-For-All Family Pleaser
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Fun for all and all for fun on a family cruise holiday!
Holidays are a family affair for you. That means plenty of activities to keep the kids busy and a nice mix of together-time and alone-time. Basically, something for everyone. You saw that episode of Modern Family when they went to Hawaii and started researching your own tropical getaway. Hey, if the Dunphys can do it...
School holidays roll around quickly and you want to make the most of them while you can. If you can plan a break that makes everyone happy, you'll be happy too.
Your perfect match: '8 Night Pacific Islands' on board the Carnival Spirit, visiting Noumea, Mare and Isle of Pines in New Caledonia. Carnival is the perfect cruise line for families, with award-winning youth programs, a nanny service, and the kid-free Serenity retreat for mums and dads. Ahh, the serenity!
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The Sail-Away Honeymooners
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Set sail on your honeymoon
What good is a getaway if you can't share the experience with your special someone? You're all loved up and looking at the world through rose-tinted glasses. Whether you've just put a ring on it or are re-tying the knot some 20 years on, you know how that it takes work to keep the romance alive but you're in it together.
You like your holidays relaxing with a side of indulgence; you enjoy exploring new cultures, trying new foods, and making your friends envious on Instagram. Most of all, you like spending time with your sweetheart and are looking forward to a lifetime of doing just that!
Your perfect match: Princess Cruises 'Mediterranean & Greek Isles Medley'. Two weeks of just you and yours, cruising from Greece to Turkey, Italy, Tunisia, France and Spain. Celebrating your love in idyllic Mediterranean surrounds? That's amore.
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The Dip-Your-Toes-In Traveller
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Dive into travel by boat
You haven't had the luxury of being able to travel much, but the time has come and you're ready to broaden your horizons. You want to ease into it, take things at your own pace, and not forego too many creature comforts (that means no backpacker hostels, thanks).
You'd prefer to avoid language barriers, know what to expect when it comes to dining, and enjoy your time away without getting bogged down in the details. There's nothing wrong with taking things slow.
Your perfect match: P&O's 'Barrier Reef Discovery'. Take seven nights to discover one of the seven Wonders of the Natural World aboard the Pacific Dawn, visiting Brisbane, the Whitsundays, Cairns, Port Douglas and Willis Island. Where better to start than your own backyard?
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The Relaxed & Retired Voyager
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The fruits of your labour flow freely on board a cruise
You've put in the hard yards and now you're reaping the rewards. The kids have flown the nest long ago and you might even have a few grandkids to spoil these days. You're not afraid to admit you like the finer things in life – good food and wine are as essential to a holiday as your passport is.
You'd rather leave the holiday planning to the pros and are happy to be toured to and fro. Who says holidays have to be all go-go-go? You'd rather savour it slowly, explore at your leisure, and gather plenty of stories to share for your return home.
Your perfect match: APT's 'Magnificent Europe – Amsterdam to Budapest'. Make your way on board APT's Aria or Concerto river ships and get ready to lap up the luxury. Cruise down the Rhine, Main and Danube river and let Europe sweep you off your feet over 15 blissful days.
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The Single & Ready To Mingle
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A cruise can be the best way to travel solo
You're a firm believer that the most important part of any holiday is having a good time. You're a bit of a social butterfly, always up for a good chat, and have no problem striking up a casual conversation with new acquaintances at the dinner table.
A quarter of all Aussie cruisers are aged under 40, so if you thought cruises were limited to the Baby Boomers, think again. Whether you're seeking the intimate, refined atmosphere of a river cruise or the 'spoiled for choice' offerings of a sea voyage, solo travellers are well catered for when it comes to cruising.
Your perfect match: The 14-night Exotic Southern Caribbean Cruise with Celebrity Cruises is a sure-fire way to explore new territory and meet some new faces. Drinks at Cellar Masters and dinner at Qsine on board the Celebrity Eclipse? Sounds like a pretty ideal first date!
