12 myths about cruising

Pleasant enough slide show, and almost all true.  I disagree with the take on cruise ship food, however.  There is a vast difference between food on 4,000 passenger mega-ships and that on small, ultra-luxe (or whatever silly adjective) vessels with 100 to 250 passengers - I'm thinking Seabourn and Silversea.  IMHO (and per experience), here's why those small ships serve excellent cuisine: (1) Very few covers: 250 dinners is less than most top restaurants. (2) More limited menu than restaurants: each dish gets more attention, from selection to ingredients to prep to presentation. (3) Semi-fixed meal times: a restaurant's dinner trade runs from about 6 to 11 pm; on a small luxe ship, everyone dines between approx. 7 and 9, allowing more a la minute preparation and reducing the interval between pre-cooking and service. (4) Practiced and professional service: luxe lines pay their hotel staffs well, and they really don't expect to be tipped (but we do). (5) Localized menus: small ships can build around seasonal produce in ports of call. (6) No reservations: your table always awaits - and the waitstaff knows your preferences already.  (7) Good company: on small luxe ships, one dines with passengers of similar interests and tastes; when and with whom one pleases.  Good conversation makes the food taste better.  Seriously.

We have been on four cruises this year and another one in November.  Have cruised both Carnival and Royal Caribbean.  Would never have afforded to go on five vacations in one year if it wasn't for the affordability of cruising.  Every ship is a fun ship.  Royal Caribbeans newer ships cater alot to the children with themes such as Matacacar and have alot of children on board.  Saw more kids on Royal than on Carnival.  Every cruise is what you make it.  Been on almost 20 and have never had a bad one.  Food is always 5 star and the entertainment outstanding.  Do as much or as little as you choose.  If you're bored that's your own fault because they offer something for everyone all day and night.  We have made so many life long friends cruising and enjoy every minute and can't wait till the next one!!!!  We've booked as early as a week before and as late as a year before.  Makes no difference.  You still get a bargain.  Enjoy!!!!

Been on eight cruises in the last three years.  Th cruise ships provide a lot of bang for the travel buck. There are ships to fit everyone's needs and I suggest you read up on each cruise line your're considering to find the one that will provide all the activities and amenities you need. I would suggest that families with young children stick to Disney or some Carnival cruises. These ships are geared to keep young ones entertained and happy.  For a romantic couples cruise, I personally love Holland America and  great middle of the road  ships that seem to please all vacation types is Royal Caribbean.