Cruise dos and don'ts
2012-06-19 14:12
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This advertorial was paid for by MSC Cruises
Thinking of opting for a more classical mode of vacationing? Here are a few things to keep in mind before booking a cruise aboard two of the more popular cruise liners to grace South Africa's shores, namely the MSC Opera and the MSC Sinfonia
Do plan your booking strategy.
You can book your cruise vacation a few months to a year in advance. Booking this way guarantees that you save some money. In the beginning you're able to bag reasonable prices because you have a wide choice. With MSC Cruises you can enjoy discounts of up to 30% on selected cruises if you pay three months in advance. It all depends on the flexibility of your trip really.
Don't leave the family at home
Some cruise operators have a free kids policy where children under-18s get to cruise for free when sharing a cabin with two adults, paying only port, baggage and service charges. With tons of free kids activities on board, parents still have a chance to relax and unwind properly.
Don't spend too much time in your room.
It can be easy to get caught up in the luxury of your amenities or you might not have immediately found your sea legs. Taking some anti-nausea pills along just in case so you can recharge quickly. Otherwise mingle and take advantage of the group activities on the ship as well as the camaraderie that tends to flow naturally amongst cruise passengers.
Do enjoy the many amenities on board.
There's a lot to do on a cruise since they've become like mini cities these days. Take full advantage of all these facilities by pre-booking things like spa treatments or shows. Other things to enjoy include sporting activities such as the Virtual Golf Simulator aboard the Sinfonia and Opera, that allows players, especially beginners, to practice their swing while sailing. There is always something to grab your attention. Resist the urge to do it all in one go because you will probably end up exhausted and in need of another vacation.
Don't be bound by rules.
It's great to participate in the organised cruise activities. But if during an activity you feel like retreating to your room, or doing something else, just do it. It's your cruise.
Don't over spend
It is important to familiarise yourself with what's included in your cruise package. Usually all meals and on board activities are taken care of so make sure you have that necessary cash to splurge on the exotic on-shore excursions.
About MSC Opera and Sinfonia Cruises:
- It is a family owned, family-run company offering best-value South Africa cruises
- With 11 categories of accommodation and cruises ranging from 2 nights to 12 nights there is a cruise to fit almost all budgets.
Early Booking Special Destinations include:
- Portuguese Island – 3 Night Weekend: Departs most Fridays from November to April - from R3, 300 pps
- Maputo &Barra Lodge – 4 Nights Midweek: Departs most Mondays from November to April - from R3, 400 pps
- Walvis Bay – 4 Nights: departures in Dec, Jan, & Feb – from R3, 416 pps
Also Cruises to Mauritius, Reunion and Madagascar over the Christmas and New Year Period as well as cruises to Hermanus, Mossel Bay, Luderitz, plus Coastal Cruises between Durban & Cape Town and a once off exotic cruise to Walvis Bay and St Helena in January 2013. To book go to www.msccruises.co.za for the full program, prices and dates then give us a call on (011) 798 3600 to book your cruise holiday today! Quote the reference #GoTravel24 - Advertorial
