I have always heard good things about cruising; however, finances and time often limited my options; or so I thought. One day, I was sitting in a jacuzzi with some folks and heard them talking about repositioning cruises. I checked it out and I am glad that I did. Repositioning cruises are cruises that cruise companies sell when positioning ships in different locations for the next cruise season. For example, a company that cruises a lot in Mexico may reposition ships to Alaska for the cruise season. The ships are some times reasonably populated which means shorter lines. The price is usually very attractive. The cruises are for various lengths; 4 days, 5, days, 7 days, 14 days or more. A friend of mine just took a lengthy cruise from Europe to the US! I chose a 4 day cruise from Vancouver BC to LA. There are limited stops; however, you have an opportunity to take advantage of all ship board activities. I took in movies, shopped, ate at many restaurants, took computer classes, photography classes, and toured the ship’s galley, to make a few. Exercise rooms, and massages are available. Most of the activities are offered on these cruises but maybe not with the same frequency. The entertainment may not be headliners but performers put on a good show. The food is great. I meet interesting people all of the time. I had more than enough things to do and enjoyed most. This allowed me to get exposure to cruising without breaking the bank. Since then, I have cruised 6 times, including places like Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, North America to name a few.
How did I find this cruise? Look at the beginning of ending of the respective cruise season. I usually check the respective cruise line that I plan to take. Establish a price point and be flexible. I determine the number of nights I want to spend, look at the location, potential weather, size of the ship, age of the ship and the reputation of the cruise line. If you plan ahead and can leave on short notice, last minute bookings that are offered can offer real price value. Keep your passport and your immunizations up to date. Since the cruises can be at the end of the season, be prepared for the weather. Take the appropriate gear and look forward to the adventure. Once I cruised from Alaska south at the end of the season. I took the appropriate clothing for good and bad weather. I experience a little bit of both but I was prepared. A good all-weather jacket and the right shoes along with several caps does the trick for me.
Don’t be afraid to try something new. If you like it then you can use that experience when you book your next adventure. Saving a little money made my voyage that much more memorable.
Bon Voyage!!!