Tips to enjoy your cruise scales

Although life on board new cruise ships can justify the cruise, is visiting different places without unpacking, one of the biggest attractions when choosing a cruise. That is why we pay special attention to the itinerary we can add extra appeal to our trip.

After searching through the extensive range of cruise itineraries and finally chose one that catches our attention because of their itinerary, and there begins our work to make the most of the days in port and choosing or preparing our cruise excursions.

Today I will describe some of the tricks and tips I use to select, choose or make excursions or tours of cruise ships in various ports.

First of all …

How to read the descriptions of the excursions offered by the ship

We must pay special attention to the symbols or comments tours a brochure which indicates the level of difficulty: walk (walking), moderate hike (strenous walking) or steep slopes (climbing).

Try to be realistic and adapt to your actual physical condition and safe will not have to regret the following day cruises with strong stiffness or muscle aches.

Some comments that can be found in the prospectus of sightseeing cruises are:

“City tour”. Is from the bus itself flowing through all points of interest in many cases it is possible to make stops to take photos or explanations but not everywhere. Such excursions may appear under the name of “highlights  … “,” City tour “or” Introduction to “.

“You see” (You will see). There are stops and descriptions will be made from the moving bus itself.

“Stop for photos” (photo stop). There are brief stops to take pictures of the highlights.

“Snack” (refreshment). To be included in the price and usually consists of water, tea, coffee or soft drinks. If not written in the descriptions of the tour are on your own.

“Drinks” (open bar). Usually included in the pleasure boat excursions, diving and beach activities. They usually consist of soft drinks, beer or cocktails (especially occur in Caribbean cruises).

“Meal included” (meal). It is found in the full-day excursions. Usually buffet at a local restaurant. Sometimes the food is brought from the ship itself.

“Walking Tour” (walking tour). There should be some comfortable shoes and all types of terrain (ever saw Santorini heels go ). These tours allow you to discover places where buses can not enter.

“Beach Day” (beach break). Includes transportation between the ship and the beach. Usually include the services of a resort that give an extra service such as toilets, deck chairs, drinks. Do not forget to bring a towel provided by the boat itself (and sunscreen)

Cruise companies are not tour operators. They contract with third parties, elected by their good references, good service or safety. Many cruise lines have contracts with tour operators themselves in the same ports and in some cases you can hire them directly excursions at ports of arrival outside the ship’s excursions.