Cruise lines have their own distinct personalities and ships that reflect them, but there are some definite trends that are spreading across the fleets within the cruise industry.

More homeport cruising

Being able to drive to a cruise offers great convenience, not to mention tremendous cost savings by not having to buy airline tickets. All total, there are some 30 close-to-home departures in the United States and Canada. With so many ships in these close-in markets, in 2010 the competition for your cruise dollar will be fierce.

Bigger cruise ships

Cruise lines have gotten the message from travelers and they are delivering more for 2010 – more space, more options, and more fun on the largest cruise ships ever to hit the high seas. Larger ships mean a wider variety of features and amenities from which to choose.

Cruise ship makeovers

The refurbishment of the older ships makes sense for cruise lines, since most aren’t investing huge sums of money to build newer vessels. By “remodeling” what they already own they can add all of the features of the new ‘mega-builds’, which many cruisers appreciate. Older ships are emerging from their new makeovers with new balconies, improved pool areas, updated children and teen areas, more dining venues, and larger spa facilities.

Greener cruise ships

Cruise lines are taking advantage of the latest environmental technology to reduce their carbon footprint. A number of lines have launched initiatives including advanced wastewater purification, shore power, LED lighting, solar power and products made from recycled materials.

More adults-only areas

A number of cruise lines are increasingly catering to passengers seeking al fresco tranquility with the introduction of quiet, adults-only areas on their ships. These areas are usually in quieter parts of the ship and offer relaxation with abundant plush loungers and access to spa treatments, Jacuzzis and bar service.

More enrichment

Cruise lines continue to offer more and more sophisticated programming. Many cruise lines offer informative shipboard talks by famous lecturers on a variety of topics. Additionally, a number of premium and luxury cruise lines also invite arts and culture specialists to lead educational programs. Lectures aside, there are abundant enrichment offerings onboard and the list of options keeps getting bigger. Cruise travelers can take classes in languages, cooking, Web design, advanced digital photography, art history, maritime history, calligraphy, even pottery. There are even active enrichment programs like dance classes and theater.

More theme cruises

Are you a baseball fanatic, into politics, crazy about rock or jazz music? Believe it or not, you can indulge these passions – and a host of others – on a cruise vacation. Theme cruises are growing in popularity as they provide an entertaining and enriching venue for guests sharing the same interests. Best of all, the shared exuberance fosters an easy spirit of camaraderie, making for a great cruise vacation and sometimes lifelong friendships.

More wellness options

Cruise lines are chasing the fitness trend and have incorporated more comprehensive fitness options into their shipboard offerings, including larger pools, and gyms with state-of-the-art equipment that offer popular workout programs like aerobics, Pilates, circuit training and yoga.

Of course all the activities are balanced by the total relaxation guests find in modern shipboard spas. New indulgences include such treatments as an bamboo massage, Thai poultice massage, exotic coconut rub, body wraps, and acupuncture, to name a few. These are just some of the many therapeutic options available should you wish to turn your cruise vacation into a complete health makeover at sea.

More epicurean delights

While the typical cruise ship remains a vessel of culinary indulgence fueled by 24/7 buffets, pizza stands, and ice cream parlors around every corner, many cruise lines have added more gourmet fare for the more sophisticated palate. Most lines offer alternative dining venues where, for an additional fee, guests can indulge in premium fare with many of the menus designed by famous chefs.

With all the new ships, new onboard amenities, educational, health, exercise, and epicurean offerings it’s clear that cruise lines are working hard to make the cruise vacation experience the best it can be. And, that will surely make guests want to come back for more.

The feeling of escape from the rat race is never closer than when you are on a cruise. Out on the open sea, fresh air and tropical drinks, what could be better?

Cruise Destinations – The World Is Your Oyster

Deciding which cruises to take is the hardest decision to make. Hawaii, Bahamas, Caribbean or even Alaska. You can see Europe on a cruise or many other countries, where every few days there is a new destination to explore.

When you plan your cruises you will see all the different ports you can visit for the day and that can be a big deciding factor for some people.

Have you ever wanted to visit Hawaii? Of course you have, I mean who hasn’t? A cruise to Hawaii give you the chance to visit all the islands, you don’t pay for a hotel and it turns a normally expensive vacation into a vacation that can fit all budgets.

Crusie Activities – Much More To Do Than You Might Think

Some people say they are worried they would get bored on cruises. Well, have you seen the new cruise ships? There is something for everyone 24 hours a day. In fact, there is often more to do on a cruise ship than anywhere else you go in life. It is kind of like Vegas on a boat.

There are movie theaters, comedy clubs, casinos, night clubs, swimming pools, hot tubs, shopping centers and more food than you can probably imagine. There are cruises for seniors, students, honeymooners and families.

Cruises are for everyone. They offer organized activities that you can opt to sleep through or lay on the deck soaking up the sun. You are where the decisions get made!

Addicted To Cruises – Why Not!

Cruises offer many of the amenities of a resort hotel and they even have televisions in the rooms if you just want to relax in your room. You can make telephone calls, cruise the internet, just like on land. The question you are going to end up asking yourself is how many cruises can I take?

They become addictive to those who take them. You get all the benefits of a vacation with none of the work. You pay for your ticket, tip the appropriate people and relax.

Cruises are some of the most fun times you will have in your life and such memorable times with your spouse or family.

Some cruises are limited to seasons like Alaska. The beauty of the Alaskan cruises are the scenery. Maybe a tropical setting isn’t your cup of tea but you still have many options.

How about touring Europe without all that time on an airplane – with no ground travel arrangements. You just walk off the boat, explore, get souvenirs, eat local food and then go back to your comfy stateroom!

There are so many cruises to consider and exploring all your options is the way to go. Get some brochures, find one that fits, get on that ship and leave your life behind for a while.