A Couple’s Guide to What’s New in Cruising

Cruises are not what they used to be and, for the new generation of travelers, that’s good news. Formal dress is out, inclusive pricing is in, the same old mass cruise ports are out and remote and exotic destinations are in. On many lines, children sail free, so it’s easier to include them in your family cruise travels. Here are some things to expect:

Comfort is a Priority

Formal dinners are rare and casual clothing is the norm on most ships. Cabins are larger, with more amenities, and even smaller ships have spas.

More is Included

More lines joined the move toward inclusive pricing, instead of charging for everything separately. This means guests know in advance what the cruise will cost instead of being surprised by large bills for extras at the end of the cruise. Expect more cruise lines to include drinks, shore excursions, internet and even pre- and post-trip hotels.

Destinations are More Exotic

The Arctic regions rise in popularity, with more ships sailing to Antarctica and the polar regions of Canada, Scandinavia and Greenland; look for the Chilean fjords, Glacier Alley and Cape Horn on itineraries, as well. New cruise destinations include remote regions: Look for stops in Easter Island, Porta Limon, Bora Bora, Moorea and Rarotonga.

River Cruising is Hot

As more small ships are added to fleets, new rivers opened up to cruising. No longer limited to the Rhine, the Danube, the Amazon, the Nile and the Mississippi, river boats now cruise the Mosel, the Saone, the Garonne, the Dordogne, the Douro, the Yellow River and the Mekong.

Prices are More Competitive

With all the new ships (there are now more than 500 cruise ships in the world) and new itineraries, competition drives prices down. Early-bird discounts and last-minute specials make the deals even sweeter.