If you have never actually been on a cruise before, more than likely you have heard a variety of different stories about cruising. Unfortunately, many of the things you may have heard are actually myths and have no truth at all. Before you go on your first cruise, it is important that you know what myth is, and what fact is. The following are ten of the most common cruise travel myths that you will encounter.
Myth # 1 – Waiting Until the Last Minute Gets the Best Price
Many people have heard the myth that waiting to book a cruise at the last minute will result in the very best price. This is actually quite far from the truth, since it is actually those who book first who will get the best deals on their cruise.
Myth # 2 – Center Cabins are the Best
While in some cases the center cabins are the best ones, this is not always true. There are some ships that have engines in the middle of the ship, which can be a bit noisy and may cause vibrations, which can be bothersome.
Myth # 3 – All Ships Meet the Same Safety Requirements
Not every ship meets the same safety requirements, though many people think they do. Every ship is different, and if you are concerned about safety procedures and requirements, you should speak to your travel agent or a representative of the cruise line.
Myth # 4 – Cruising is for Inactive Retirees
Another myth that many people have heard and believe is that going on a cruise is only for retirees who are very inactive. This is a very wrong misconception, since many people who go on cruises are quite young, and there are a variety of great activities to participate on when you are on a cruise.
Myth # 5 – Travel Agents Can Help You Upgrade
There are those who think that it is the travel agent who can give you an upgrade on your cruise package, but this is actually not true. As a general rule it is the cruise line themselves who offer the upgrade, and many times you will have this option offered to you when you are making your initial purchase.
Myth # 6 – Cruises Are All-Inclusive
Some people have been led to believe that when you pay for a cruise, it is all inclusive and you will have nothing else to pay for. Sadly, this is not true. While your cabins and most of your food will be included in the price you pay, snacks, drinks, and other items will not be included and you will have to pay for them as you want them.
Myth # 7 – Cruises Only Go to Beach Destinations
There are many who have the idea that cruises only go to beach destinations, and while many cruises do go to beach destinations, they are not the only destinations to choose from. There are many other great destinations to choose from including Alaska, Greece, and Italy, which are not focused around beaches.
Myth # 8 – Cruises are Dangerous
Too many people still have visions of the Titanic in their head when they are thinking about cruises, and there are many who actually think that cruises are very dangerous. Cruises are actually quite safe now days and you can enjoy yourself on board a cruise ship without constantly worrying about going under.
Myth # 9 – Assigned Seating at Dinner
Some people find themselves concerned about the dinner seating, since they believe that it is always assigned. Assigned seating makes some people feel uncomfortable, but while a few cruises still have assigned seating, most cruises have now gone to open seating, which allows you to sit where you want.
Myth # 10 – Seasickness is Inevitable
There are some who may not be going on a cruise because they truly believe that they will definitely get seasick. Although seasick can occur, most people do not have a problem with it due to the stability of the newer cruise ships.
Make sure that you are not fooled by the various myths that go around about cruise ships. Keep these myths in mind so you really know what to expect when you go on a cruise. Be sure that you get the facts straight so you can be well informed and enjoy your cruise.
