Cruises
Discover the world from the comfort of a cruise ship. Whether you're dreaming of tropical islands, historic rivers, or luxurious ocean voyages, Cheryl can help you find the perfect cruise experience.
Cruise Destinations
Types of Cruises
Ocean Cruises
Ocean cruises are the most popular type of cruise vacation. These large ships offer everything from casual Caribbean getaways to grand world voyages. With thousands of passengers, multiple dining venues, entertainment options, and ports of call, ocean cruises provide an all-inclusive resort experience at sea.
River Cruises
River cruises offer an intimate and immersive way to explore inland waterways. These smaller vessels navigate famous rivers like the Rhine, Danube, Seine, and Mekong, docking right in the heart of historic cities and charming towns. River cruises typically include shore excursions, fine dining, and cultural experiences with a more refined, all-inclusive approach.
Expedition Cruises
For the adventurous traveler, expedition cruises venture to remote destinations like Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands, and the Arctic. These smaller ships are designed to access areas larger vessels cannot reach, with expert naturalists and guides, zodiac landings, and unique wildlife encounters. Expedition cruises focus on exploration and education rather than traditional cruise amenities.
Luxury Cruises
Luxury cruise lines offer the ultimate in sophistication and personalized service. These premium voyages feature spacious suites, gourmet cuisine, included beverages and gratuities, and higher staff-to-guest ratios. Luxury cruises visit exclusive ports, offer enrichment programs, and provide an elevated experience throughout your journey.
Family-Friendly Cruises
Many cruise lines specialize in family travel with supervised kids' clubs, teen lounges, waterslides, character experiences, and family-friendly entertainment. These cruises offer activities for all ages, family stateroom configurations, and flexible dining options that make traveling with children easy and enjoyable.
Popular Cruise Destinations
Caribbean
The most popular cruise destination features tropical islands, pristine beaches, and year-round warm weather. Choose from Eastern, Western, or Southern Caribbean itineraries.
Alaska
Experience dramatic glaciers, wildlife viewing, and stunning natural beauty. Alaska cruises operate May through September with Inside Passage or Gulf of Alaska routes.
Mediterranean
Explore ancient history, art, and culture across multiple countries. Visit Italy, Greece, Spain, France, and Croatia in one unforgettable voyage.
Mexican Riviera
Convenient departures from California ports to destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlán offer sun, beaches, and authentic Mexican culture.
Northern Europe
Discover Scandinavia, the Baltic, and the British Isles. These cruises offer cultural immersion, historic cities, and stunning fjords.
South Pacific
Visit tropical paradises like Fiji, Tahiti, Bora Bora, and New Zealand. Perfect for honeymooners and those seeking exotic island escapes.
Cruising FAQ
What's included in a cruise fare?
Most cruise fares include accommodations, meals in main dining rooms and buffets, onboard entertainment, and basic activities. Specialty restaurants, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, spa services, and gratuities are typically extra (though some luxury lines include these).
Do I need a passport?
While some closed-loop cruises (round-trip from U.S. ports) may accept a birth certificate and ID, a passport is highly recommended and required for most international itineraries. It's essential if you need to fly home unexpectedly from a foreign port.
When should I book my cruise?
Booking 6-12 months in advance typically offers the best selection of cabins and early booking discounts. However, last-minute deals (within 90 days) can offer significant savings if you're flexible with dates and cabin categories.
What should I pack?
Pack comfortable daywear for shore excursions, swimwear, evening attire (the dress code varies by cruise line), medications, sunscreen, and any necessary travel documents. Most ships have laundry services available.
Will I get seasick?
Modern cruise ships have stabilizers that minimize motion, and most passengers don't experience seasickness. If you're concerned, book a midship cabin on a lower deck, bring motion sickness medication, or try acupressure bands.
Can I stay connected at sea?
Most ships offer internet packages, though connectivity can be slower and more expensive than on land. Many ports have free or affordable WiFi. Some cruise lines offer better connectivity packages than others.
Ready to Set Sail?
Let Cheryl help you find the perfect cruise for your next vacation. With 30 years of experience, she knows which cruise lines, ships, and itineraries are right for you.