If getting away for Christmas sounds like a good idea then read on…

The festive season is a special time of the year that comes around in the blink of an eye. It’s a time we can’t avoid or put off, even though some years we might like to!  

If the idea of getting ‘away’ appeals then cruising is a great option. Equally, cruising is ideal for bringing friends and family together at this time of year. Cruising during the festive season can be magical in so many ways!

     

We love it – here are some insights for you so you can work out if you would love it too…

Pros

• Ships are big enough that you can always retreat to your own space!
• No cooking or cleaning, full stop!
• It makes a great gift to give each other 
• Santa, eggnog and carols by the poolside
• Lots of holiday entertainment and activities for the children including visits from Santa, craft-making, carolling and storytelling

Cons

• Due to their increasing popularity, we recommend booking upwards of a year in advance to be certain to get the cruise and cabins you want including family suites and interconnecting rooms (although closer to the day there are still options)
  
• Christmas and New Year can be expensive (so keep an eye out for great deals – we can help you with this)
• There are generally a lot of children on board Christmas cruises, so if you aren’t a fan… this may not be the best time to cruise for you!
• Small luxury ships tend to have more mature passengers and fewer children – your Cruise Express travel specialist will be the best person to consult with on this.
    

Other important considerations…

• While cheaper fares may become available closer to time, there may only be inside cabins available with your family scattered throughout the ship – it really depends on if this is an issue for you or not
• Look into the onboard activities to ensure they are right for everyone
• Most ships will have events at this time of the year, so don’t forget to pack special outfits for Christmas Eve/Day and New Year’s Eve
• It is a busy time of the year so we suggest you try to choose a departure port that doesn’t involve flights and if you do need to fly, ideally arrange to arrive a night early in case there are delays or cancellations
• Don’t forget the kids (and partner’s/parents) presents!
• If you really want to keep the spirit of Christmas alive in your cabin, you may want to consider bringing a fold-up Christmas tree, decorations and a special plate for the reindeer treats
• Be super kind to the staff on the ship who at this special time of year, are away from their much-loved and missed families.To find out your Christmas cruises options, contact one of our travel specialists on 1300 766 537 or email info@cruiseexpress.com.au.