CRUISE CONTROL
Wedding travel specialist Anita Gatley (weddingtravel. co. nz) shares why a cruise could be a perfect honeymoon fit for you and your groom.
WHY SHOULD COUPLES CONSIDER A CRUISE AS A HONEYMOON OPTION?
One of the major drawcards of cruise packages is that they give couples the chance to explore a multitude of destinations, in just one trip, at half the price. With hundreds of ships cruising the world, there are myriad options to suit every budget and a bevy of gorgeous destinations to choose from and enjoy, especially in our South Pacific backyard.
Choosing a honeymoon cruise gives couples the opportunity to visit somewhere they may have previously felt was out of their price range – think the warm, crystal clear waters of the Tahitian Islands of Bora Bora for example, or the white sand beaches of the Caribbean islands.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN A TYPICAL CRUISE PACKAGE?
For their fare, couples get their own cabin (these vary greatly, depending on the ship and the itinerary), all meals, transport and entertainment. In addition to this, all the standard amenities on a cruise ship are at their disposal; on bigger ships they’ve got more room to play, with anything from basketball courts and rock- climbing walls to shopping malls and ice-skating rinks.
The perfect romantic addition to your honeymoon cruise, most ships have fine dining restaurants, where you pay a small surcharge over and above your fare. This is a wonderful opportunity to dine in an intimate setting, while enjoying world-class cuisine at a fraction of the price.
Depending on the length of your itinerary, most cruises will have one or two days at sea, where people spend most of their time lazing by the pool or relaxing at the spa. It’s best to pre-book spa treatments as well as make reservations for the specialty on-board restaurants. If there are particular activities or excursions couples are keen to try at each port, it’s advisable to also book these in advance, as they fill up fast. The itinerary will indicate the arrival and departure times from each port, so plan accordingly. Don’t try and push it; it’s smart to be back on board at least an hour before setting sail.
WHAT SHOULD COUPLES PACK?
It’s a good idea to bring at least one formal outfit if couples are planning on attending fine dining options, however there is no obligation. Many ships have a “Captain’s Night”, where you meet the ship’s captain and everyone attending is expected to dress for the occasion. Togs and a cover-all are fine for poolside. The variety of cruise lines is extensive and some are more formal than others, so it pays to double check before heading aboard.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO BOOK?
The best way for couples to book their cruise is through a wedding travel specialist or travel agent. They’ll research both the ship and itinerary together and be privy to all the discounts and offers currently available, making the process as seamless and stressfree as possible. Sunset cocktails on your own private balcony might cost a little extra, but then again, it’s your honeymoon!