START CRUISING CLOSE TO HOME BY MARJOLEIN LLOYD
hat was once perceived as a luxurious, out of reach form of vacation, one that only the rich and famous could afford, is now one of the most popular vacations for families all over the world. It is a vacation that can be taken virtually anywhere. It is an “all- inclusive” get-a-way that can be perfect for any type of family whether it is a couple looking for an adventure on their honeymoon, a young family looking to keep the children entertained, or a couple who would like to celebrate their golden anniversary. Available to hundreds of destinations, and at a range of price points, cruising has become a choice for travellers of all ages.
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Cruising dates back to the early 1800’s when shipping companies first started offering any sort of comfort to their passengers on transatlantic travel, as opposed to only focusing on the cargo that was being transported. By the 1860’s, liners began catering solely to passengers and added amenities such as electric lighting and entertainment. It was in the 1960’s when the modern cruise industry began. Cruise liners were concentrating on creating a certain atmosphere and providing numerous options for on-board entertainment. The focus was no longer the concept of transporting guests from one place to another; it was more about the adventure of the voyage itself.
For those who have not experienced a cruise before, it is an all-in-one vacation. “Cruise ships have become a full resort,” says Midge Behnke, travel consultant for Marlin Travel in West Kelowna. “You can do everything from rock climbing and
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tennis to swimming, waterslides, aerobics classes, spas…all the things you would find at a five star resort. You can forget about your worries; it’s truly a luxury vacation”.
In the Okanagan, residents and visitors alike are very fortunate to be so close to a cruise port. A quick forty-minute flight to Vancouver or Seattle from Kelowna, and there are cruise ships docked practically at your feet. There is no need to fly across the country or to the southeastern tip of the United States; there are beautiful itineraries available out of Vancouver and Seattle, ranging from two nights along the Pacific Coast, a seven night voyage up to Alaska and its’ gorgeous glaciers, to a seventeen night grand adventure to the Panama Canal.
Cruising is ideal for seniors who love to travel. The convenience of the quick flight, and a shuttle directly from the
airport to the ship is an added bonus. It is also perfect for those who may not know their way around the city, or perhaps have health issues or disabilities. The convenience is also not lost on those travelling with their families, especially those with young children. I have young children, and long flights are not always the best way to start a family vacation.
With the massive variety of activities available on board, it is no wonder that more people are considering cruises. Besides the vast array of restaurants, bars, swimming pools, shopping, and spas available, there are often organized activities available for children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. Many cruise lines offer on-board talks and lectures on all sorts of topics from resident experts who are able to chat with you afterwards. There is usually live music, and Broadway and Vegas type shows that you can enjoy. Some ships even have classes available,
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