A taste of cruise life
27 Mar 2018
A cruise to nowhere may seem like a crazy idea, but we promise you, it’s not. In fact, it’s a great way to holiday. Departing from the home port and looping back around within three days, a sampler cruise to nowhere gives passengers the opportunity to sample everything about cruise life. From the onboard amenities to the food and entertainment, it’s a wonderful break from everyday life.
Things to do
While there are no ports of call, there’s a lot of fun to be had on a cruise ship. In fact, many seasoned cruisers will often forgo a port if they’ve been there before and choose to stay on board to make the most of what the cruise line has to offer.
Starting with a full-buffet for breakfast, there’s usually trivia, lectures, activities and games you can play all around the ship. There are also some tours you can go on if the cruise line offers this and you can even treat yourself to a spa visit. And that can all be done before lunch!
Speaking of lunch, most ships will have a number of different cafes or restaurants. . You can usually even enjoy a bite by the pool if you don’t want to give up your lounger – don’t worry, we get it.
In the afternoon, there’s generally the same sort of activities offered. But if you don’t feel like doing anything, there are plenty of pockets around the ship where you can escape with a good book. Before you know it, it will be time for dinner.
Take it all in
If you’re keen to get a sense of what a cruise has to offer, the best way to do it is to throw yourself into cruise life while onboard.
If you’re there to relax and unwind, do it. Order some room service and enjoy your meal on your balcony.
If you want to get involved and meet new people, there’s a plethora of ways to do it. Whether it’s grabbing a drink at the bar and striking up a conversation, or joining up with people and playing a round of trivia, whatever tickles your fancy, seize the moment.
Also, cruise ships are renowned for their excellent entertainment so definitely hit the theatre before or after dinner to grab the show. If it’s not something you’re interested in, don’t worry, there are usually some excellent performers in the bars around the ship, and sometimes in the middle atrium as well, so take a stroll and find a spot that works for you.
Why even have a cruise to nowhere?
Glad you asked; it seems like such a strange phenomenon. But when you think about it, it’s the perfect marketing ploy. The quickie cruise is usually offered for three main reasons.
- To lure new cruisers. If newbies love the test run, they’re likely to come back for more. That’s why the cruise to nowhere itineraries are jam-packed with activities and things to do.
- To fill gaps in the ship’s itinerary. The cruise line can make a few extra dollars if the particular ship is lingering between regular itineraries.
- Introducing a new ship. Sampler cruises are usually the first thing offered when a ship arrives at its new home port for the season. They’re also usually offered when a brand-new ship is unveiled.
Remember, sampler cruises are designed to immerse the passenger in the unique experience of cruising. So it’s really up to you to embrace the experience.
Upcoming travel plans? Planning a cruise? You’ll need some travel insurance. Head to the Probus South Pacific Travel Insurance page for everything you need to know.
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