Cruises Around the World

Cruises are more popular than ever. For over 20 consecutive years, the global cruise industry has grown by more than eight percent annually. That is staggering exponential growth. Every year, tens of millions worldwide enjoy what many believe to be a dream vacation. There are many reasons why.

Cruisers tend to be high achievers, and on average make more money than the average non-cruiser. The median household income for a cruiser is $104,000. Fully 57 percent have full-time jobs, 16 percent are retired, and well over half are college or university graduates.

So what do they know that the rest of the world doesn't? These are ten reasons why a cruise can be the best choice for your money!

1. Value: Nothing beats a cruise for incredible vacation savings – you'll visit multiple destinations and so much is included, from dining to entertainment, that you may be tempted to make every vacation a cruise.

    2. Convenience: Set sail from 22 close-to-home U.S. ports, and no matter how many places you visit, you'll only unpack once. And while onboard, wallets and purses aren't required!

    3. Variety: Thousands of itineraries to hundreds of ports across all seven continents. And there are endless activities for every taste, onboard and ashore.

    4. Choice: Dine in shorts or dress to the nines – today's cruising can be as casual or luxurious as you like. Choose an action-packed adventure or a poolside retreat – it's your cruise, it's your choice!

    5. Comfort: More oceanview and balcony staterooms, more luxurious bedding, and expanded spa and sports facilities are just a few of the many ways today's fleets will pamper you in style.

    6. Adventure: You define what adventure means to you, we'll help find the perfect cruise to make it a reality. Ice climbing in Alaska, surfing in Hawaii, exploring unique wildlife in the Galapagos, finding the very best Caribbean beach – you name it, we've got it!

    7. Sharing your experiences: Cruising offers unique opportunities to meet other travelers – and you'll share new experiences that you won't find with other types of vacations. With plenty of fun group activities, get ready to create unforgettable memories and make friendships that last a lifetime.

    8. Become an expert – or meet one: Many cruise lines offer special onboard enrichment programs that immerse you in the things you love most – poetry and prose, fine wine, regional cooking, antiques, wildlife, and music are just a few of the many choices.

    9. Experience more: Waking up in a brand new port of call is part of the unique thrill of cruising. And with nearly every new port, you'll have unique opportunities ashore. Jungle safaris, historic city tours, and dolphin encounters are just a few of the exciting shore excursions you can add to your package.

    10. Togetherness: There's no better way to travel for large groups of friends and family than a cruise. Planning group reservations is more affordable and convenient at sea. You can pick your staterooms all on the same deck, dine at the same restaurants onboard, enjoy a Broadway-style show together, and so much more. And best of all, there's something fun for everyone. When you travel as a group, the incredible experiences you share will strengthen the bonds of friendship and family forever.

Cruise Confidential: A Hit Below the Waterline: Where the Crew Lives, Eats, Wars, and Parties. One Crazy Year Working on Cruise Ships (Travelers' Tales)

The Truth About Cruise Ships - A Cruise Ship Officer Survives the Work, Adventure, Alcohol, and Sex of Ship Life

Carnival Pullback Cruise Ship (SKU#492560-8)

Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2010 (Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships)

Permanent Passenger: My Life on a Cruise Ship