If you’re thinking about taking a cruise, choosing the right type of cruise is crucial. Not only will you need to decide on the cruise line, cruise ship, budget, itinerary and embarkation port, but you’ll also need to research the different types of cruises to discover what experience you want to have whilst you set sail.
But you’ll also need to research into the different types of cruises, to ensure you have the perfect experience for your preferences.
Luckily for you, Iglu Cruise has revealed six different cruise types to help you decide which is right for you, as well as some top tips for each type.
1. Solo Cruise
Solo travel has been growing in popularity in recent years, with many eager travellers deciding to see the world on their own terms, rather than waiting for the perfect travel partner.
With a solo cruise, you have the option to be as social as you like. Some travellers wish to make new friends and immerse themselves in a new social environment. Other guests want to have some quality time by themselves out at sea, escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life and everything in between.
Your safety is also a priority on a solo cruise. Trained staff will be there along the way to make sure you’re being looked after, both on and off the ship.
Iglu Cruise’s Top Tip For a Solo Cruise
If this is your first solo cruise, try to choose a smaller ship. This can make the experience a little less daunting. Plus, it can be easier to make friends on a smaller vessel, if that’s what you want.
2. Wellbeing Cruise
A well-being cruise is a cruise designed especially for you to unwind and get some much-needed rest and recovery, whether that be on your own or with friends or family.
These cruises often have amenities on board that can help guests relax, including swimming pools, fitness classes, and of course, spas. Many cruise lines also offer a wide range of spa treatments including massages, facials, acupuncture, body wraps, manicures and pedicures, along with facilities such as saunas and steam rooms. Other onboard facilities on a well-being cruise include big, spacious cabins, a variety of healthy food options and gym facilities.
For those looking to truly focus on their well-being, a transatlantic cruise could be a great option as this allows the opportunity to stay onboard for a long period and make full use of the ship’s facilities.
Iglu Cruise’s Top Tip For a Wellbeing Cruise
Prioritise your sleep. Many of us struggle to get a good night’s rest, so make sure to catch up on sleep during your time onboard. This will help you feel rejuvenated after your voyage.
3. Cooler Climates Cruise
Having a ‘coolcation’, or cool vacation, is one of the latest travel trends in recent years. Iglu Cruise has seen demand for cooler locations skyrocket, with demand for getaways to Antarctica growing by 235% in 2023, compared to 2022, and holidays to Canada growing by 137%.
Many cooler cruise destinations are quieter than the likes of the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, which generally remain busy all year round. This means fewer crowds, giving you the space to enjoy your break without lining up for attractions or fighting to get into restaurants.
This is a fantastic cruise option if you want to witness a new type of natural beauty. Snow-covered mountains, lush greenlands and glaciers are just some of the extraordinary sights you can look forward to.
Iglu Cruise’s Top Tip For a Cooler Climate Cruise
Pack appropriately. For a cooler cruise, you want to make sure to pack layers, a raincoat and also your sunglasses; as the weather might vary throughout your trip.
4. Family Cruise
Family cruises have been growing in popularity in recent years, with cruise lines such as P&O Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Disney Cruise Line all catering to families.
With pools, water slides, games rooms and more, there is plenty to do to keep the kids entertained. Not only that, but a family cruise has never been easier as plenty of sailings now embark from the UK, meaning you can skip the airport altogether.
Family cruises get booked up quickly, so it’s best to book way in advance. Iglu Cruise recommends booking at least six months before your planned departure date. Some cruise lines also offer lower deposits when you book early, meaning you’ll be able to secure your cabins at a lower rate.
Iglu Cruise’s Top Tip For a Family Cruise
Do some cabin research. Ships will have a variety of amenities, from swimming pools to theatres, and games rooms Some people will want to be close to the action, while others may prefer to be in a quieter location.
5. Adult-only Cruise
Adult-only cruises are a great option for those looking for a child-free and hassle-free holiday. Even for those with children, taking some much-needed alone time is a great way to self-care. And others without children enjoy booking an adult-only cruise as it guarantees a calm, relaxing atmosphere on board.
Virgin Voyages is renowned for its adults-only getaways, with all its cruise ships catering for adults aged 18 and over. Even if you have children, they believe that everyone deserves some time on their own to relax and enjoy a child-free holiday. All their facilities are focused on the needs of an adult-only cruise. This includes the Redemption Spa, a state-of-the-art gym, a well-being pool, hot tubs, and over 20 onboard restaurants and bars.
P&O Cruises, Marella Cruises and Ambassador Cruise Line also offer adult-only sailings.
Iglu Cruise’s Top Tip For an Adult-only Cruise
Whether you drink alcohol or not, a drinks package is an ideal way to enjoy a more inclusive adults-only getaway. Many cruise lines offer drinks packages that vary in their inclusions and prices, giving you the flexibility to choose which one is best for you. Alternatively, for a more relaxed experience, opt for an all-inclusive escape; this way, the cost of your drinks will be covered in your cruise fare.
6. Repositioning Cruise
A repositioning cruise is when a cruise ship moves from one destination to the next, usually when a season is finished. For example, a ship with itineraries in the Mediterranean may be repositioned to North America in the winter months. These trips are usually lengthier in duration and often don’t stop at many ports.
This type of cruise is ideal for those who wish to spend the majority of their cruise onboard the ship, making use of its facilities. You can also experience some unique cruise routes that other itineraries don’t embark on, such as crossing the Atlantic Ocean. You may also be able to visit two continents in one trip.
Due to the unique nature of these cruises, you can sometimes find great deals, often at cheaper prices than other, more competitive sailings.
Iglu Cruise’s Top Tip For a Repositioning Cruise
Speak to a cruise agent to find the best deals for a repositioning cruise. They’ll be able to advise on the best route for you.
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