Cruising is back, which is great news for those voyagers who’ve been itching to get back out on the water. Travelling from port to port aboard a floating playground, enjoying soirees in the evening and lazing by the pool with a good book during the day, who wouldn’t be keen on that, right? With this in mind, we take a look at the different options available on the most popular liners that are keen on welcoming you back on board.

Room options (budget vs high)

Cabins and State Rooms as they’re called vary from ship to ship, many of them priced according to their size, view, location, and amenities. If you’re on a budget the inside cabins without a window are the cheapest – you’ll only be sleeping there right? For those who prefer the whole experience, and want a bit of luxury a suite or balcony room will be your go-to. For family groups there are family cabins on some liners, including P&O, that sleep up to five people.

Food (free vs paid)

Most cruises offer all-inclusive dining options, but it’s worth noting that not all eateries are free. It’s usually the main dining room and all-day buffet that are complementary. Those restaurants and eateries that are not a part of the inclusive offerings will often bill your room for payment upon disembarkation – it’s a good idea to keep a track of the tally so you don’t get a shock at payment time. Kids eat free in the paid restaurants on some ships.

Island hopping

Some of the most popular cruises are those that glide around the South Pacific, as guests are able to island hop. Carnival, P&O and Royal Caribbean Cruises stop in destinations including Noumea, New Caledonia, Fiji and Vanuatu. You get the opportunity to soak up the sun, enjoy the tropics, swim in pristine waterways and discover new cultures – Isle take that!

Water sports

Some ships offer guests a specialist water sports program that may include snorkelling, jet-skiing, kayaking and water volleyball, while others are floating water parks that don’t require you to leave the ship, they’re jam-packed with water slides, open top-deck pools and outdoor spas to name just a few of the attractions.

Entertainment

Not just about sipping Mai Tais on the deck, or sunbaking by the pool, cruise liners are as much about entertainment as they are relaxation and leisure. Entertainment often includes Broadway-style stage shows, nightclubs, supper clubs, onboard cinemas, planetariums, trivia nights, and kids clubs to keep the little ones entertained. Speaking sessions are often held in the ship’s library at various times during the day.

Packing tips

Know the dress code and consider what activities you may engage in. Besides the odd formal evening, resort casual is the common vibe. Swimwear is a must, as is a good book or kindle, sunglasses, a hat and mix & match clothing options. Comfortable shoes for those days in port are a must and it’s best not to rely on in-room toiletries, they’re often limited. A final word, make sure you leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs and clothes you may acquire in the ship’s boutique.

Staying healthy

You’ve waited long enough to get back on board, the last thing you want is to have you or your holiday crew succumb to sea sickness. No matter your history in that regard, it’s worth packing some Kwells to calm the tummy – who knows, you may encounter some rough conditions that are unexpected. In the age of Covid it’s advisable that you take precautions pre-departure. Ensure you are adequately vaccinated and are free of any symptoms before you set sail. Gastro is another common issue, so consider taking some medication for that. Your health is number one, so investing in travel insurance pre-trip may provide the safety net you need.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance Direct covers cruising as a standard inclusion, which means you won’t need to fork out for additional premiums and can keep the cash you’ve saved for land visits or the fun stuff on board.

While most of the time it is smooth sailing, things can sometimes go off course, for example, your boat may encounter unexpected conditions; you might fall ill mid-journey; or you could face delays you hadn’t counted on. All these circumstances can prove costly if you don’t have insurance, medical expenses and evacuation costs alone can be exorbitant depending on the location.

What’s covered?

• Overseas medical expenses (international plans only – Australian waters are not considered domestic waters).
• Medical evacuation and repatriation – if additional travel and accommodation is needed to get you to the nearest appropriate medical facility, we may be able to help.
• Cancellation or holiday deferment costs – if you are forced to cancel your trip due to illness or injury that is unexpected or out of your control (see the policy for details).
• Luggage and personal effects – Our standard travel insurance includes cover for these items if they’re accidentally lost, stolen or damaged, subject to terms and conditions (see the luggage section of the policy for details). Benefit limits and depreciation apply.
• Coronavirus travel costs – If you or someone travelling with you is diagnosed with the virus and you need to cancel your trip; or a close relative is hospitalised or dies due to coronavirus and it forces you to shorten your trip, travel insurance may be able to help – benefit limits apply as do exclusions if government warnings are not adhered to.
• Personal liability – TID may be able to help with damages and compensation if your negligence causes injury to a person or loss or damage to property. This excludes injury to yourself or your travelling party, or property owned by you or a member of your family or travelling party, or for which you are responsible. Travel insurance provides cover for the costs you may incur because of that negligence, but only if you get our consent before legal costs are incurred or take legal action.

This is a brief summary of cover only and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions. Read the PDS before purchasing.