Cruising Misconceptions and Myths

Surprisingly, the myths and misconceptions about cruising are probably the top reason why cruising is still one of travel's best kept secrets. Getting people on their first cruise specials is the hard part, but the number of people who continue to cruise after trying their first cruise is extremely high. All it takes is one cruise before all of the mis-conceptions are dashed. Following are some of the most stubborn myths about cruising.

I'LL GET SEASICK

Yes, people do occasionally suffer from motion sickness and this is a valid concern. However, today's modern ships are all stabilized to reduce rolling (side to side motion) and designed by sophisticated computer aided design equipment to minimize pitching (up and down motion). On all of the cruises I have been on (100+), I have rarely encountered seasick passengers in all but the roughest of seas.

But you can be proactive and minimize the chances of any discomfort with many simple and inexpensive remedies.

The remedy I find simplest and most effective is using "sea bands". These are little wristlets that feature a "nub" that is positioned to strike a pressure point on the underside of your wrist. I have found them terribly effective, even in 40 foot seas! There are no side effects as they are drug free and the best part is they're inexpensive!! About $7.00/pair. They can be found in just about any pharmacy or in the gift shop onboard.

There are several medications such as Bonine or Dramamine. I have heard these can be quite effective but I personally avoid them due to the side effects that one may experience such as drowsiness, sleeplessness or dry mouth. It is also recommended that you avoid exposure to the sun and avoid alcoholic intake. As with any medication, your physician or pharmacist is the best resource and you should definitely consult them before you plan on taking any one of these remedies.

I'LL BE BORED

Cruising is not the sedentary pastime it used to be, unless that's what you choose to make of it. Every cruise specials ship publishes a daily newspaper and activity schedule to keep you busy and entertained while on board.

During the day you'll find numerous activities such as Bingo, trivia games, lectures on topics such as art collecting, politics, world affairs and investing not to mention the ports you'll be visiting and shopping; exercise classes, wine tastings, cooking classes, shuffleboard, card tournaments and good old-fashioned relaxing in the sun by the pool or catching up on all those first run movies you never have time for at home. Then there are other alternatives you'll find on some ships such as golf simulators, miniature golf courses, putting greens, batting cages, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts. You can treat yourself to a day in the spa or on the ship's onboard fitness center, massages, facials, hair and nail salons, a sauna or a session with a personal trainer on the state-of-the-art exercise equipment. (But do watch out for activities that carry extra costs! More on that later).

In the evenings you have all of the bars and lounges at your disposal for mixing, mingling, dancing or people watching. There are lavish production shows and cabaret acts, comedians and the late night disco to keep you going into the wee hours.

And don't forget how much your ports of call provide for exciting diversions and discovery. You can trek off on your own or take one of the ship's pre-arranged tours.

I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT SHIPS: I'LL LOOK SILLY - Fear not, the majority of cruisers today are not "old salts" and you'll all be in the same proverbial boat together. There are a few basics that I think everyone should know:

 

Updated On: 03.12.12