Cruises

Unforgettable cruises: discover the world at sea!

Which cruise is right for you? Discover how to find the right cruise experience, what to expect during the trip and how to prepare for it. With a clear focus on choice, experience and preparation, this article offers valuable insights for your next sea voyage without unnecessary baggage. Cruises are a great way to discover new places and create unforgettable memories.

The most important things at a glance

• Cruises are a popular form of vacation that appeals to different target groups, from families and retirees to singles and couples, thanks to the variety on board and the different destinations
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• The cruise offer ranges from ocean cruises, which offer the feeling of freedom on the open sea, to river cruises, which impress with their proximity to cities and quiet cruising style.
• Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the cruise industry, with measures such as the use of shore power and digital solutions to reduce paper consumption to promote greener tourism.

The allure of cruises: a journey across the seas

Cruises have become a popular form of vacation over the years, attracting a wide target group - from families and retirees to singles and young couples. They offer the unique experience of traveling from one place to another while sleeping and exploring different countries and cultures along the routes during the day. The experience on board is as diverse as the destinations themselves.

From the casual and informal atmosphere on AIDA ships to the individual freedoms on Norwegian Cruise Line ships, such as no rigid dress code and free meal times, there is something for everyone. Renowned shipping companies such as:

• A-ROSA
• MSC
• AIDA
• and others

offer a wide range of cruise-related experiences and ship types to suit the diverse tastes and desires of travelers.

The evolution of cruise ships: from classic to modern

The first cruise ships of the 19th century were mainly used as a means of transportation to carry passengers and mail between different destinations. At the beginning of the 19th century, Albert Ballin introduced the concept of luxury ocean liners, which served as "floating hotels". To compete with land-based hotels, shipping companies increasingly focused on luxury in the early 20th century, for example by partnering with hoteliers such as Cesar Ritz.

In the 1970s, cruise ships themselves became destinations, thanks to their amenities and entertainment offerings. The mega ships that emerged in the 1980s, such as the MS Sovereign of the Seas, could carry as many as 2,850 passengers, and modern ships can even accommodate over 5,000 passengers. Modern cruise ships are characterized by sophisticated interiors and partnerships with well-known designers.

Cruise destinations that inspire

Cruises offer the opportunity to discover a variety of fascinating destinations without constantly changing hotels. Popular travel destinations for cruises are:

• Baltic and North Sea
• Mediterranean
• Caribbean
• South Sea
• Nile

Discover our attractive cruise offers and plan your next dream trip

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In addition to ocean cruises, river cruises offer unique travel experiences. Nile cruises, for example, invite you to explore Egyptian sights such as the Luxor Temple, while Mediterranean cruises allow you to discover the coasts and islands of Italy and Croatia.

Cruises in Northern Europe take in spectacular scenery such as the fjords of Norway, while Caribbean voyages include destinations such as the Bahamas and Puerto Rico. In addition, themed cruises, such as wine cruises and Alaskan cruises, offer unique experiences from romantic wine tastings to adventurous wilderness expeditions.

At sea and on the river: different cruise experiences

River cruise ships are designed to pass under bridges, allowing for a family experience with intensive care and personal contact with the crew. River cruises typically sail at night and stop during the day to offer passengers quick access to centrally located destinations such as historic cities. For travelers prone to seasickness, river cruises are often the preferred choice as the ships hardly rock and guarantee a stable and peaceful night's sleep.

In contrast, ocean cruises offer the feeling of freedom on the vastness of the sea and the opportunity to enjoy several days at sea in a row. Whether ocean or river cruises, both offer a diverse experience of culture, entertainment and relaxation, the choice of which depends on the traveler's personal preferences.

Life on board: A look behind the scenes

On board cruise ships, passengers can look forward to a wide selection of culinary delights, ranging from snacks and small dishes to extensive buffets. There is also a wide range of entertainment options, such as climbing gardens, water slides and mini-golf, to keep both children and adults entertained.

To relax, wellness services such as massages, facial scrubs and steam baths are available, while the well-equipped gyms on board ensure physical well-being. In addition, passengers enjoy excellent care during the voyage, including special sea and land tours, which ensures an all-round successful travel experience.

Sustainability on the high seas

Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role in the modern cruise industry, not only locally but also globally, in order to protect the world. Many cruise ships use green shore power in some ports, which reduces local emissions. In addition, there is an increased focus on digital solutions, including digital on-board invoices, to reduce paper consumption.

These measures allow passengers to enjoy a luxurious cruise while helping to protect our environment.

Cruises for every taste

For travelers looking for a touch of luxury, luxury cruises offer spacious staterooms, renowned restaurants, fitness centers, pools, sun decks, spas and evening programs, as well as well-planned shore excursions. In addition, there are a variety of cruises tailored to specific needs and desires, such as sailing ship cruises, Mediterranean cruises or river cruises on the Nile. Shipping companies also offer affordable last-minute options, making cruises accessible to a wider audience.

And for those who are short on time, there are mini cruises that offer a compact yet eventful travel option.

Planning and preparing for a cruise

Planning and preparing for your cruise can seem overwhelming at first, but with a little preparation, it becomes an exciting part of your adventure. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

1. A valid passport is mandatory for international cruises, even when stopping in countries with special entry requirements.
2. It is also important to stow important items such as medication or documents in your hand luggage in case suitcase delivery to your cabin is delayed.
3. You should check a packing list and clarify with the shipping company what can be taken on board.

These tips will help you plan and prepare for your cruise. Have fun on your trip!

The right clothing for shore excursions should be practical and adapted to the weather and the planned activities. Travel cancellation and international health insurance is recommended for cruises; trip interruption insurance can also be considered. It is advisable to check all details when booking, including gratuities, transfers and additional packages such as Wi-Fi or drinks, to avoid unexpected costs.

In addition, you should plan your journey to the cruise ship well, take the duration of the trip into account and consider whether it makes sense to book flights via the cruise line in order to arrive at the ship on time in the event of delays.

Summary

Cruises offer a unique travel experience that combines comfort, adventure and culture in a single trip. Whether you're looking for a luxury cruise or a budget last-minute option, the variety of offerings allows every traveler to find the perfect cruise. Plan your trip in advance to get the most out of your cruise experience and let yourself be enchanted by the fascination of the seas.

Frequently asked questions

How do ocean and river cruises differ?

Ocean cruises offer a sense of freedom on the high seas, while river cruises offer a family experience with personal attention.

What can I experience on board cruise ships?

On cruise ships, you can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, culinary delights, wellness and fitness facilities. A wide selection for all passengers.

How can I choose a sustainable cruise

Choose a sustainable cruise by selecting ships that use green shore power and employ digital solutions to reduce paper consumption on board.

What types of cruises are available?

There are a variety of cruises, including luxury cruises with exclusive amenities, adventure cruises to exotic destinations, family cruises with activities for all ages, cultural themed cruises that focus on the history and culture of the places visited, expedition cruises that take you to remote areas and offer deep insights into nature, as well as affordable last-minute options for spontaneous travelers.