Before heading out of town or the country for a cruise, it’s paramount to secure the home against emergency or invasion. Setting timers for lights in the living room, safeguarding valuables, and temporarily ceasing newspaper and mail delivery are all important checklist items prior to departure. Read on for some additional suggestions about ways for homeowners to protect their investments before boarding an ocean liner for an exotic destination.

Protect valuables

Be sure to secure in a safe deposit box any valuables that are normally kept in the home. These can include cash, your prized Blue Nile diamond necklace, and even spare electronics like a work-issued laptop. Rest easy and bask in the sun knowing that your jewelry and company property are protected.

Hire a house sitter

Having someone look in or stay at the home while travelers are out of town can increase a homeowner’s feeling of wellbeing while they are away. Hiring a house sitter can further help given that the home continues to be lived in during an absence. A car in the driveway and presence around the house will make things appear unchanged to anyone who happens through the neighborhood. A house sitter can maintain the exterior of the home, as well, including bringing in mail and deliveries, mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, or setting out trash for pickup.

Survey the property

Consider turning off the water to the washing machine to prevent the chance of a burst pipe that can flood the house. Unplug electronics that won’t be used like the microwave, laptops, and television. Turn down the thermostat and lower the temperature on the water heater. There’s little sense in heating air or water that no one will be using, just as air conditioners don’t need to run endlessly in a homeowner’s absence. Take a few minutes to walk the exterior of the home before heading out. Make sure that motion-detector lights are in place and functional. Ensure doors are properly latched, especially those that might not be used often, like those to a side porch. Lower blinds so that the interior of the home cannot be seen from outdoors. Installing and arming a security system will also help keep the peace while a traveler is away.

Mum’s the word

Though soon-to-embark travelers will want to discuss an upcoming vacation with their social networks, avoid doing so. Details and photos can be shared on Twitter and Facebook upon return. Announcing a trip online or on the voice mail message is essentially an invitation to prowlers to break in. The same goes for checking in from one’s mobile phone using services like Foursquare. Discuss plans offline and manually touch base with family and friends via email or phone call after arrival. While there can be a lot to do to prepare for a cruise, a homeowner who employs many or all of these tips will be able to fully relax while away, knowing their chances of coming home to a nasty surprise have been greatly reduced.

Weather

Most parts of Alaska generally have an Arctic climate, so weather conditions may significantly fluctuate. Due to the location of Alaska being so far North, the sun rises and sets at times that you may not be used to. (Especially if you are cruising during the months of June & July, you will experience extremely long hours of daylight.) Ketchikan, a popular destination among tourists, receives 333 inches of rain annually, so inclement weather isn’t unusual. It is however, vital that you are prepared for all conditions, with beautiful sunshine and snow showers occasionally occuring within minutes of each other.

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Accessories + Suitable Clothing

As we mentioned before, most parts of Alaska possess an Arctic climate. However, it is important not to get caught out by the irregular sunshine and warm weather spells. Even if the temperature is not neccessarily warm, we would advise using some form of sun protection at all times. Insect repellents are also useful, as mosquito’s are very common in Alaska. Standard fundamentals such as sunglasses & cameras are also well wort taking on board.

When it comes to choosing what clothes to pack, we recommend sweatshirts and other layerable clothing. Thin waterproof raincoats that can be folded down are also a must-have. Any cruisers who are especially susceptible to sunshine should take a cap as further precaution. The fact that Alaska is a less formal cruise location than some of it’s more glamorous cruising counterparts, allows you to pack more comfortable, casual clothing. Check with your selected cruise line for dress codes on formal dinner evenings.

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Shore Excursions

Shore Excursions play a big part in creating your amazing Alaskan adventure. There are several various types of activities available, all catering for people with different tastes and interests. Official Shore Excursions can be booked on board your cruise ship. However, You can also book less formal, less expensive Shore Excursions on the internet. Search for locals who offer a more hands-on, traditional Alaskan experience at lower costs!

Click HERE for our guide on the best official Shore Excursions in Alaska.

The 2 ships both carry the signature “Norwegian” Prefix and have been officially revealed as the “Norwegian Breakaway” and “Norwegian Getaway”

The launch date for the ships have been scheduled for April 2013 and April 2014 respectively, and will feature accommodation designed specifically for families, spa enthusiasts and solo travellers.

Unlike their latest Ship the Norwegian Epic, NCL will be reintroducing oceanview staterooms, some of which will have five berths. Of the 158 oceanview staterooms on each ship, there will be 42 family oceanviews that sleep up to five guests.

The ships will also include 449 inside staterooms, many of which connect and can sleep up to four guests.

The two new ships names came about after competition hosted by USA Today in the US which received more than 230,000 entries.

“Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway epitomise both our Freestyle Cruising philosophy and our belief that these ships will offer a true respite, whisking guests away from everyday routine and delivering the ultimate cruise vacation,” said Kevin Sheehan, NCL’s chief executive officer.

The Breakaway-class ships will each be 144,017 gross tons and have approximately 4,000 passenger berths.

The weather was so so from start to finish, sometimes raining, sometimes not but often cold.  It rained in both Cobh and Dublin.  For anyone who’s never visited Ireland by sea, Cobh had a train into Cork from the cruise terminal while at Dublin the cruise line should lay on shuttles to take you into the centre.  One of the problems with Greenland is there are no guarantees you will get to your destination due to weather or ice, even though this is summer.  We missed Qaqortoq because of ice so continued to Nuuk, arriving a day earlier.  This was the first year, apparently, excursions had been offered but don’t waste your money.  Nuuk is a small place which can be seen at your own pace.  We had booked the Heritage Trail.  I had to return to the ship due to an injury but my friend continued, seeing far more after the tour than during it since it showed you only a small part of the town plus the museum. Qaqortoq, at present, doesn’t offer any.  Then it was off towards Reykjavk where we arrived at lunchtime a day earlier than scheduled.  This gave us the added bonus of exploring the city, and there is a lot to see!  The next day, we were on The Golden Circle excursion which we didn’t enjoy though know many have and do.  We were told Ring of Fire was better but each to their own. In Akureyri you can either choose to head into town, a short walk from the port, or do a tour. Many people have been to Norway and our first call was Aalesund, which again is close to the town.  We were berthed in a container terminal so had shuttles into the town.  We had been told the tourist information place would know how often they run back to the ship from there but they didn’t.  Ours were fairly regularly, with one leaving when another arrived, just as had happened in Dublin.  The scenery around Geiranger is spectacular so make sure you don’t miss the Seven Sisters waterfalls.  I have – twice!  One day I’ll rectify that.  A must-see place (besides Mount Dalsnibba on a clear day – mine was cloudy) is Flydal’s Gorge, the viewing point looking over Geiranger.

There is another at Eagle’s Bend on the opposite side but in my opinion, it’s not as good.  Bergen is another place you can choose to do a tour or go independently into town.  Depending on where you berth, it should be in walking distance or a shuttle available.

P&O aren’t doing cruises including Greenland after this year.  Ours was the last but they have increased calls to Iceland from 2012.  Fred. Olsen and other lines still go to Greenland, with some during repositionings back to the USA, so if you fancy seeing some icebergs, you won’t regret it.

Patricia Dempsey

Liner Lovers

When comparing the benefits and cost of cruise travel to a land based holiday, we think there are 5 main factors that need to be taken into account. These factors are Cost, Variety, Entertainment, Food and Accommodation which we will now explore in further detail.

Cost

When comparing costs between a cruise holiday and a land based holiday, there are many factors that need to be taken into account. These include the quality of accommodation, is it all inclusive? and how long is your stay?. Let’s say we are going for a 10 night holiday and the accommodation must be 4 star. A great example would be comparing the 4 star Royal Caribbean independence of the seas 10 day departure from Southampton to the Canary Islands in April 2012. On this particular sailing, an inside cabin could be snapped up for as little as £639pp for a 10 day cruise, working out at £63.90 per person per day. If you wanted to visit the Canaries on a land based holiday, this would mean you would incur costs for the hotel as well as flights. Browsing through price comparison websites, it’s clear you can get a 3 star land based holiday for a similar price for a 10 night vacation, but 4 star accommodation was over £100 more.

Variety

Here is where Cruising is the hands down winner. No other holiday provides greater variety then a cruise. First of all lets touch on the ships, especially the new ones. Ships like the Norwegian Epic, P&O Azura and Royal Caribbean oasis of the sea’s are floating islands in their own right, packed with amenities and hundreds of things to do on board. On top of staying on a ship packed with top class entertainment and great dining options, you get the chance to wake up most mornings in a different country or a different port of call, giving you the chance to go off and explore on your own or take a guided tour of your new destination. This is one thing a land based holiday can’t offer,  so you better do a great deal of research into your holiday as if you don’t like the place you have chosen, you won’t go to sleep and end up with somewhere new and exciting to explore.

View From Balcony

Entertainment

Again, Entertainment is another aspect where hotels and land based holidays simply cannot compete with the cruise lines. Packed with shows every night with award winning acts such as the Blue Man Group and Chicago the Musical, you will also find various tribute acts, Aqua and Ice skating shows, Circus acts and Comedy on board the leading lines. Most hotels do not have the space to dedicate to stage shows and big entertainment productions; instead people tend to congregate by the pool or to other local attractions like clubs and bars. The quality and variety of entertainment will differ from ship to ship, so be sure to do some research before you book your cruise as some cater better than others.

Food

Cruises are renowned for great food, and the newer ships also bring an abundance of choice. Most of the newer ships have over 10 different dining options, so you can eat at somewhere different every night of the week. Cruise ships have used famous Michelin starred chef’s to create menu’s, and P&O have 2 Gray Rhodes inspired restaurants in the Oriana Rhodes and Arcadian Rhodes. Most all inclusive hotels will have only 1 or 2 dining rooms, mainly serving uninspiring, buffet style meals.

Dining on the Deck

Accommodation

There are 2 ways you can compare the accommodation, the first way being size. Hotels will always tend to have bigger bathrooms as space is one thing the most basic cruise cabins tend to lack. Hotel rooms will often be bigger when comparing the lower end cabins, though balcony cabins and suites can more then hold their own with most hotel rooms. You will find room service on both, with the option of butler service and priority dining on some cruise lines for those in the higher end suites. One thing a cruise cabin has over your basic hotel room is the changing scenery. Even the most beautiful scenery from your hotel window cannot compete with the continually changing scenery you will see from your picture window or balcony when cruising idyllic locations such as Alaska, the Norwegian Fjords or the Caribbean.

On a whole, the benefits of a cruise really outweigh that of your traditional land based holiday and is definitely worth a try in 2012, with new ships and new itineraries available that can accommodate a variety of different tastes.

Dunn River Falls, Jamaica

One of the most popular Caribbean shore excursions, Walking up dunn’s River is  one of the most beautiful experiences you will find in the Caribbean. Each year thousands of visitors make the journey up the slippery steps of this beautiful 600-foot falls.

Dunns River, Jamaica

Reef and wreck Diving in St Thomas

Reef and Wreck diving in St Thomas is one of the best Caribbean shore excursions you will ever go on. Part of the US Virgin Islands, St Thomas has some of the best reef and wreck diving in the Caribbean. Regarded as a Mecca for divers, you will be enchanted by its crystal clear waters and abundant marine life.  Wreck dives are an exciting experience, and your diving guides will take you to explore the sunken habitats of ships that lie deep in St Thomas’s waters.

Wreck Diving in St Thomas

Trinidad & Tobago Carnival

Another Top Caribbean Shore excursions is the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival. Experience one of the biggest carnivals in world and enjoy the party Caribbean style. The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is truly a must-see celebration of soca and calypso music, colourful costumes, stickfighting and limbo.  After a long and exciting build up in the weeks leading up to Carnival, the street parade takes place on Carnival Monday and Tuesday, February 20^th and 21^st 2012.

Trinidad and Tobago Carnival

Mayan Ruins of Altun-Ha

Many Caribbean cruises call at Belize, Giving you the chance to take excursions to the Mayan ruins of Altun-Ha. First inhabitated in 200BC, Altun-Ha was a bustling trading post to the Mayan World up until 900AD. The site covers approximately 5 square miles and contains over 450 structures, the largest of which, The temple of the masonry altars, is 54 feet high.

Altun Ha Mayan Site

Whale and Dolphin Watching  in St Lucia

The waters in and around St Lucia are home to several species of whale and dolphin. When your cruise reaches St Lucia there are options of boat excursions to view these stunning marine animals in there natural habitat.

Dolphins sailing the Bow

For more information on Caribbean Cruises, Call us free on 0800 9755 288 or enquire online

Feel free to leave your comments below

Very happy with the Cruise Ship, the Brilliance possesses good dining options and the staff were particularly friendly and personal. Entertainment shows are not something that really appeal to us generally, but when we did take them it we were pleasantly surprised and enjoyed them. The dining arrangements onboard suited us terrifically, we were able to enjoy buffet style meals when we fancied them during the daytime. Evening meals once again offered the buffet style meals, as well as a more formal laid out option (which you have to pay extra for) that we enjoyed for a few nights. The set seating plan paired us up with a lovely couple from New Orleans, who kept us entertained with stories from their previous cruises, including one about a very funny shore activity whilst in Alaska, involving a dog and a helicopter!! Also, although not included in the initial price, alcoholic drinks were reasonably priced, which we found helpful.

We enjoyed excursions at nealry every port of call, with Fujairah being the only place we wasn’t massively impressed with. Whilst in Muscat we experienced a very entertaining commentator on a bus trip we went on! Well worth checking out. Abu Dhabi was beautiful, we spent a period of time on a stunning beach before doing some light shopping in the spectacular shopping complex. We had been warned by fellow passengers that Bahrain’s taxis are relatively expensive, so we once again chose to travel around the town by bus, taking in the views and massive buildings, a decision that we were glad we made. Staff on board the ship were excellent when it came to questions regarding things to do whilst at shore/booking excursions for us. Very informative and helpful, offering advice on how to save money and time. They also helped us by providing a daily newsletter, detailing the dress codes for each place of interest, saving us from any uncomfortable slip ups when visiting Mosque’s etc.

All in all, an excellent cruise and something we will be looking to do again in the near future.

R. Jacobs

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If you have any Cruise Reviews please feel free to email them us to at info@lovecruise.co.uk. We will happily post them!

Check out some stunning photos from our United Arab Emirates cruises below.

Who are Cruises for?

Embarking on a Cruise is enjoyable for people of all ages and from all walks of life. Whether you are a newlywed couple going on your honeymoon, a family looking for a new adventure or a singleton wishing to meet new people, a cruise will not disappoint. There are many different cruise ships, catering for various needs; from smaller traditional vessels with mellow on-board atmospheres, to larger, action-packed modern ships. On Board actitivies are generally included in the price, with kids clubs tailored to different age groups.

Cruise Destinations

There’s no limit on where you can visit, with over 300 cruise ships and over 1800 ports of call available worldwide. Caribbean & Mediterranean cruises are the most popular, with sensational itineraries available for 2011 and 2012. Why not try an Alaskan Cruise, famous for it’s stunning Shore Excursions? You really are spoilt for choice when comtemplating your Cruise Destinations!

Cruise Lengths

Cruise durations vary from 1 & 2 night short trips to 100+ nights World cruises! Whether you are interested in a fortnight in the Caribbean or a weekend cruising the Mediterranean, there are plenty of options available.

Types of Cruise

First time cruisers have a wide range of cruises to choose from. No-fly cruises are ideal for those who are looking to save the inconveniance of having to fly. Southampton & Dover are the UK’s most common departure points, travelling to sensational ports of call including the Mediterranean, Caribbean and the increasingly popular Norwegian Fjords. Fly-Cruises are also available, with passengers flying abroad to their cruise embarkation port.

Themed Cruises are a developing market with many different categories being implemented into a passenger’s voyage. They combine general ship facilities with the cruiser’s personal interests and hobbies to provide the ultimate experience. Themed Cruises tend to have little to no impact on the daily running of the ship, with specific rooms and areas being designated.

Value for Money

When compared with other types of holiday, cruising is generally significantly cheaper. Most cruise lines operate on an all-inclusive basis, offering 24/7 food and drink and entertainment packages included in the price. Certain ships include your tips in the fare, whilst others will charge a compulsory service fee. Some cruise lines still expect you to tip your cabin steward and restaurant waiter on the last night (at your discretion), but the cruise line will tell you if this is the case.

Cruise Ships

There are many different cruise ships to choose from, catering for various needs; from smaller traditional vessels with mellow on-board atmospheres, to larger, action-packed modern ships. Onboard there is an excellent range of facilities and activities to choose from, with state-of-the-art fitness centres and spas as well as nightly entertainment and casinos. With the more modern ships, revolutionary innovations include intricate details such as grass lawns, rock-climbing walls, ice rinks and surf simulators.

Currency

You will not use cash on board cruise ships. Upon checking-in you will be issued with a Ship ID swipe card which is needed when you embark and disembark the ship at each port of call. You will also use this for all onboard purchases which will then be charged to your cabin/stateroom, before paying it up at the end of your cruise.

Dress Code

Dress codes onboard vary depending on which cruise line that you select. The daytime dress code always revolves around swimwear/shorts & t-shirts etc. but evening dress codes are different. A majority of cruise lines assign daily evening dress codes. These consist of Casual, Formal or Informal which generally apply from 6pm onwards. Casual means more or less anything goes, Formal dress is based on tuxedos and cocktail dresses, with Informal based on open shirts and trousers for men and dresses for ladies. Not every dining venue applies a dress code, so for those of you who would rather not dress up, alternative options are available. Some cruise lines are abadoning dress codes completely, complying with modern trends towards more casual cruising, offering a more freestyle cruising experience.

Accommodation prices vary depending on the cabin size and where it’s located on the ship. For example, in general, the higher the deck, the higher the cost. Inside cabins, without a view or any form of window are the cheapest. Outside cabins usually have a porthole window, whilst Balcony cabins offer window doors, opening out onto your own veranda. All of these include en-suite facilities and are serviced daily. If you are looking for something even more luxurious then the highest grade onboard is a Suite, which are incredibly spacious and offer the ultimate indulgence and often include your very own personal butler.

Dining Options

Most cruise ships have a main restaurant with a set early and late sitting, where you will sit down to eat with your fellow passengers each night. However an increasing amount of cruise lines are offering open seat dining, meaning you go to eat when you choose. NCL are famous for their Freestyle Dining options. Certain ships also contain speciality restaurants with menus designed by world renowned chefs such as Gary Rhodes & Marco Pierre White, albeit at an occasional extra charge.

For any other queries you may have feel free to contact one of our specialized cruise consultants on 0800 9755 288 or email us at info@lovecruise.co.uk

Happy Cruising!

Cruisers can select from a wide range of themes including Music, Gourmet cuisine & fine wine, Culture and History. For the more discerning passengers there are Intellectual pursuits and Political themes. Performing Arts and Golf themes are also becoming increasingly popular with these cruises featuring Live performances by high quality entertainers, Special Guest Speakers and related shore excursions. They also offer oppurtunities to interact with the leading figures in a particular field.

Fred Olsen Line offer around 30 different Themes, ranging from Archaeology to Comedy, with many hands-on activities and experiences available on board. Why not discover the secrets of original French cookery directly from French master chefs on board a Regent Seven Seas cruise. Detailed workshops are provided by award-winning chefs in addition to visits to local markets to learn more about the ingredients used in making world-renowned dishes. Information Technology themed voyages are also great and cater for all levels of capability.

For more information on Themed Cruising call us free on 0800 9755 288.