THE BEST CRUISE BETS OF 2015
Phil Reimer reviews latest options
Out of the gate? Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!
This was a great year for cruising. Longer stays in ports were embraced. So were more overnights. There were more choices on the types of ships we cruise on, and more in the way of restaurants (some pay, some included in your cruise package).
On the negative side, there were problems with high and low water on the rivers of Europe, but they were small issues compared to a couple of years ago.
You may not agree on the following — and that’s OK — but I thought I would stick my neck out and offer a few awards of mine (with comments) in several categories.
BEST NEW SHIP
I picked the Viking Star long before her keel hit the water. All you had to do is look at Viking’s Longships on the rivers to believe the Star would be a popular addition to the new ocean cruise operation.
It is innovative, with all balconies, a welcoming boutique feel, no casino, great spa and, like its river cousins, free Wi-Fi, plus beer and wine at lunch and dinner.
The Star is beautifully designed to dine indoors or al fresco on nice days, has a fabulous twostorey lounge at the bow, a pool area where the roof slides closed during inclement weather. She has been sailing the Mediterranean and Northern Europe but next fall will be coming to North America.
BEST LUXURY
Luxury cruisers have their favourite lines and are loath to try others. Crystal, with its two older ships, still leads this category and now is taking the luxury brand to new heights with river cruising and posh aircraft.
BEST FOR FAMILIES
I have a tie here. But I am going to give Royal Caribbean the edge with its Quantum Class and Oasis Class ships. They’re especially great for teens and, hey, rock climbing can be good for all ages. In fact “all ages” fits this line with nurseries for babies and a stream of fun stuff to keep all kids busy. It’s right up there with Disney
BEST ITINERARIES
This goes to Azamara, the little two-ship line that continues to offer some of the best excursions. It was first with late-night departures and overnights, and Azamara Evenings have been a big hit. Unique ports and always-interesting excursions and solid personal service put Azamara first here.
ADVENTURE CRUISING
Not a tie, but two winners here: in North America, Un-Cruise Adventures; in Europe, Hurtigruten. Look up both websites to see where they go — fantastic places, some of which you can only get to from oceans.
BEST FOR VALUE
My pick is Carnival. Prices are up for 2016 but Carnival still offers value from the most ports around North America. The latest class of ship (Vista) will be out in the spring and you can cruise Europe with her before she comes across the Atlantic.
There are many other categories but this is where my space ends.
OK, one more ...
BEST PORT
Vancouver. You land right in the heart of the city and, if you have time, you can go for a run or walk nearby at iconic Stanley Park.
I expect I’ll hear from my friends who are American writers — they’ll be in disagreement, but that’s OK, too.