Caribbean Cruise Family Plan By MSC Cruise Lines

Caribbean Cruise Family Plan Buy One Balcony Stateroom And Get Over 50% Off The Second Balcony Stateroom This holiday season take the whole family to enjoy the sights of the breathtaking Caribbean from the comfort of two connecting Balcony Superior Staterooms. Imagine savoring a steamy cappuccino or a refreshing gelato with an ever-changing view on your own private balcony, while your children enjoy their own stateroom. Onboard discover the perfect blend of European charm and modern Italian elegance, and the genuine warmth of our Italian officers. Come sail with us to extraordinary destinations departing from an array of exotic ports aboard the beautiful MSC Poesia , on a seven night journey your family will not soon forget at a value you’ll appreciate forever. 7 Nights|MSC POESIA PRESIDENTS DAY CRUISE EAST CARIBBEAN: Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale, St. Thomas, San Juan, Nassau 2012 Dates First Balcony Stateroom from Second Balcony Stateroom from February 18 $899pp* $449.50pp* 7 Nights|MSC POESIA NEW YEARS CRUISE WEST CARIBBEAN: Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Cozumel, Isla de Roatan, Montego Bay 2011 Dates First Balcony Stateroom from Second Balcony Stateroom from December 30 $1,199pp* $599.50pp* 7 Nights|MSC POESIA CHRISTMAS CRUISE EAST CARIBBEAN: Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau, San Juan, St Thomas 2011 Dates First Balcony Stateroom from Second Balcony Stateroom from December 23 $999pp* $499.50pp* 7 Nights|MSC POESIA CARIBBEAN WONDERS WEST CARIBBEAN: Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale Ports of call:Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Cozumel, Isla de Roatan, Montego Bay 2011 Dates First Balcony Stateroom from Second Balcony Stateroom from December 16 $769pp* $384.50pp* 7 Nights|MSC POESIA THANKSGIVING CRUISE WEST CARIBBEAN: Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Cozumel, Isla de Roatan, Montego Bay 2011 Dates First Balcony Stateroom from Second Balcony Stateroom from November 19 $849pp* $424.50pp*

Robert Foster TravelSmartbyKandB.com CruisesbyCaptBob.com Battle Ground, WA, 98604 360-687-9579 travelsmart@wildblue.net

*Rates are USD, per person, double occupancy, cruise-only valid for new retail bookings on select sailings and stateroom types for residents of U.S. and Canada. Promotion valid only for a minimum of 4 passengers booked in 2 cabins. Both cabins must be booked at the same time and in the same booking number. Both cabins must be booked at the same time and in the same booking number. Guests can be booked in the same category or in different categories, if they are booked in different categories the 50% discount applies to the lower category. Passengers that book balcony superior staterooms will be assigned to connecting cabins, subject to availability.Offer is based on EB rates, cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion and may be withdrawn without notice. Offer is capacity controlled, subject to availability and restrictions apply. Government taxes and fees for all guests are additional.Government fees and taxes (GFTs) of $61.85 (Dec.30,2011). $72.85 (Dec. 23, Feb. 18 2011), and $61.85 (Nov.19, Dec. 16 2011) per person for all sailings are additional. MSC Cruises reserves the right to pass on any fuel surcharge without notice to all guests. MSC Cruises reserves the right to refuse to honor any prices/sailing dates that are erroneously printed or quoted. Ask for “Family Plan” promotion when booking. Offer expires December 30, 2011. Ship’s registry: Panama.

Last Minute Cruise Sale

Preview

EUROPE LAST MINUTE SALE Book Select European Cruises from $429* per person This is the perfect opportunity to visit Europe’s most beautiful and historic destinations. Explore the legendary monuments of Civitavecchia (Rome). Experience the rich history and cosmopolitan character of Mykonos and the birthplace of the Olympic Games in Katakolon. Aboard and ashore Europe is more than just another destination for MSC Cruises, it is our home. You will set sail in true Italian elegance and style and the genuine Italian hospitality found only on MSC at a very attractive price. Book Now And Get Up To A Two Category Complimentary Upgrade* MSC Splendida: 7 night cruises Ports of call: Genoa , Naples , Palermo , La Goulette , Palma de Mallorca , Barcelona , Marseille Departure Dates Available in August, September, October and November. Government Fees and Taxes(GFT’S)-Genoa $62.44 / Barcelona $76.69 Fares from $429*pp MSC Magnifica: 7 night cruises Ports of call: Venice, Bari, Katakolon, Izmir, Istanbul, Dubrovnik Departure Dates Available in November. Government Fees and Taxes(GFT’S)-Venice $64.51 Fares from $469*pp MSC Lirica: 7 night cruises Ports of call: Genoa, Ajaccio, Cititavecchia, Salerno, La Goulette, Palma De Mallorca, Marseille Departure Dates Available in September and October. Government Fees and Taxes(GFT’S)-Genoa $58.06 Fares from $499*pp MSC Fantasia: 7 night cruises Ports of call: Civitavecchia, Genoa, Marseille, Barcelona, La Goulette, Valletta Departure Dates Available in August, September and October. Government Fees and Taxes(GFT’S)-Genoa $64.19 / Barcelona $78.45 / Civitavecchia $54.93 Fares from $579*pp MSC Armonia: 7 night cruises Ports of call: Venice, Ancona, Corf�, Santorini, Piraeus, Argostoli, Kotor Departure Dates Available in August. Government Fees and Taxes(GFT’S)-Venice $63.45 Fares from $699*pp

Robert Foster TravelSmartbyKandB.com CruisesbyCaptBob.com Battle Ground, WA, 98604 360-687-9579 Travelsmart@wildblue.net

*Rates are USD, per person, double occupancy, cruise-only, and valid for new retail bookings for U.S. and Canadian residents. Rate shown is for a Category 1 stateroom on the November 4th sailing aboard MSC Splendida, the October sailings aboard MSC Fantasia, the October sailings aboard MSC Lirica, the November sailings aboard MSC Splendida, the November sailings aboard MSC Magnifica and the August sailings of the MSC Armonia. Government fees and taxes (GFTs) for all sailing guests are additional. MSC Cruises reserves the right to pass on any fuel surcharge without prior notice to all guests. Offer is capacity-controlled, subject to availability, cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion and may be withdrawn without notice. MSC Cruises reserves the right to refuse to honor any prices/sailings that are erroneously printed or quoted. Other restrictions apply. Ask for “Last Minute Sale” when booking. Offer expires August 31, 2011. Ships� registry: Panama.

Fall Foliage Cruise Sale By MSC Cruise Lines

Enjoy an Overnight Stay in Beautiful Quebec on a Canada New England Fall Foliage Cruise Set sail from New York City into a landscape of dazzling crimson and gold on our first-ever Fall Foliage cruises. Discover the beauty and historic riches of a spectacular array of Canada and New England ports. The highlight of this journey is an overnight stay in beautiful Quebec City. By day within this fortified city you may explore the star-shaped Citadelle, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobblestone streets and quaint shops. At night, enjoy endless and restaurant and bar choices uniquely designed from old factories or visit Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City’s most popular landmark, and the most photographed hotel in the world. These amazing itineraries have something for everyone and a backdrop of breathtaking fall foliage makes for an unforgettable journey at a value you will appreciate forever. Special fares start from $529* And Reduced Single Supplement of only 20% Canada/New England 7 Night Cruises Special Fares starting from $529*pp Oct. 8, 2011-MSC Poesia | New York to Quebec Ports of Call: New York, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown, Quebec Canada/New England 14 Night Cruises Special Fares starting from $1,099*pp Oct. 8, 2011-MSC Poesia | New York roundtrip Ports of Call: New York, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown, Quebec, St John, Bar Harbor, Boston, Newport Robert Foster TravelSmartbyKandB.com A TravelSmart Company Battle Ground, WA, 98604 360-687-9579 travelsmart@wildblue.net *Rates are USD, per person, single occupancy, cruise-only valid for new retail bookings on select sailings and stateroom types for residents of U.S. and Canada. Offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion and may be withdrawn without notice. Offer is capacity controlled, subject to availability and restrictions apply. Government taxes and fees for all guests are additional. Government fees and taxes for the 14 Night October 8th sailing is $94.92 and for the 7 Night October 8th sailing is $79.25. MSC Cruises reserves the right to pass on any fuel surcharge to all guests without notice. MSC Cruises reserves the right to refuse to honor any prices/sailings that are erroneously printed or quoted. Ask for “Last Minute Sale” when booking. Offer expires: August 31, 2011. Ship’s Registry: Panama.

EUROPE 2012: Balcony Staterooms At Oceanview Rates

Book Any 2012 Europe Cruise of 5 or more nights, and get a Balcony Stateroom at Ocean-view Rate. This is the perfect opportunity for you to visit Europe’s most beautiful and historic destinations. You’ll explore the legendary monuments of Civitavecchia (Rome). Experience the rich history and cosmopolitan character of Mykonos, the birthplace of the Olympic Games in Katakolon, the romantic waterways of Venice and much more. Fares start from only $699 per person and Kids sail for just $99*

Robert Foster CruisesbyCaptBob.com A TravelSmart Company Battle Ground, WA, 98604 360-687-9579 travelsmart@wildblue.net

*Upgrade offer applies to all sailings of 5 + nights in length. Pricing already reflects the upgrade. Offer is valid for FIT bookings only on select sailings and stateroom types for residents of U.S. and Canada. Offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion and may be withdrawn without notice. Rates displayed ane based on Splendida November sailings government fees and taxes of $28.13 to $44.86 are additional.Offer is capacity controlled, subject to availability and restrictions apply. Government taxes and fees for all guests are additional. MSC Cruises reserves the right to pass only any fuel surcharge without notice to all guests. MSC Cruises reserves the right to refuse to honor any prices/sailings that are erroneously printed or quoted. Ask for “Early Booking Upgrade” promotion when booking. Offer Expires September 30, 2011. Ship’s registry: Panama.

Sail To Hawaii On Princess Cruise Lines

Princess Cruises Passengers will Experience the Flavor and Culture of Hawaii on Sailings to the Islands
Hawaiian Islands Cruises Offer Leisurely Round trip Voyages from Los Angeles and San Francisco

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (July 20, 2011) — The “Islands of Aloha” have a special appeal as a cruise destination, and Princess Cruises is offering a choice of more than 50 sailings to the Hawaiian Islands in the 2011-12 and 2012-13 seasons. These culture-filled cruises depart from both Los Angeles and San Francisco, offering time to relax on the open ocean combined with visits to each of the major four islands in Hawaii.

While at sea, passengers will experience a special “Aloha Spirit” program with Hawaii-themed activities, parties, menu items and learning opportunities. Whether they choose to enjoy an Aloha sail-away party, learn about local wildlife and volcanoes, or simply want to relax and enjoy the poolside Hawaiian melodies or an island-themed Movies Under the Stars selection, cruisers will find numerous ways to feel the Hawaiian spirit.

Included in the program are a number of hands-on ways for passengers to immerse themselves in all things Hawaii, such as:

Europe Suite Sale: Save 50% Or More On SeaBourn Cruises

There’s no better way to spend the last days of summer and the first cool days of fall than lingering along the coasts of Europe aboard the World’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line. With our Europe Suite Sale, now’s the time to make your plans. Spacious, all-suite accommodations with sweeping ocean views – many with verandas Open bars throughout the ship and fine wines poured at lunch and dinner All dining venues are complimentary – dine where, when and with whom you wish Complimentary welcome champagne and in-suite bar stocked with your preferences Tipping is neither required nor expected – service simply to delight you Save up to 50%. Fares from $2,199.*

EUROPE SUITE SALE Itinerary Days Ship FARES FROM Dates Greek Isles & Turkish Delights Piraeus (Athens), Greece to Istanbul, Turkey 7 Seabourn Quest $2,499 AUG 8, 2011 SEP 5, 2011 OCT 3, 2011 Turkish Delights & Greek Isles Istanbul, Turkey to Piraeus (Athens), Greece 7 Seabourn Quest $2,499 AUG 15, 2011 SEP 12, 2011 OCT 10, 2011 Greek Isles & Dalmatian Coast Piraeus (Athens), Greece to Venice, Italy 7 Seabourn Odyssey $2,499 AUG 15, 2011 OCT 10, 2011 NOV 7, 2011 Greek Isles & Dalmatian Coast Venice, Italy to Piraeus (Athens), Greece 7 Seabourn Quest $2,499 AUG 29, 2011 SEP 26, 2011 OCT 24, 2011 Turkish Delights & Greek Isles Istanbul, Turkey to Piraeus (Athens), Greece 7 Seabourn Odyssey $2,499 SEP 5, 2011 OCT 3, 2011 OCT 31, 2011 Yachtsman’s Riviera Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy to Monte Carlo, Monaco 7 Seabourn Legend $2,199 SEP 9, 2011 OCT 7, 2011 NOV 4, 2011 Dalmatian Coast & Greek Isles Venice, Italy to Piraeus (Athens), Greece 7 Seabourn Odyssey $2,999 SEP 19, 2011 OCT 17, 2011 Greek Isles & Turkish Delights Piraeus (Athens), Greece to Istanbul, Turkey 7 Seabourn Odyssey $2,499 SEP 26, 2011 OCT 24, 2011 Riviera & Spanish Splendours Round-trip Monte Carlo, Monaco 7 Seabourn Legend $2,199 OCT 14, 2011 NOV 11, 2011** Aegean Autumn Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy to Istanbul, Turkey 12 Seabourn Pride $3,999 OCT 15, 2011 Greek Isles & Dalmatian Coast Piraeus (Athens), Greece to Venice, Italy 7 Seabourn Quest $2,599 OCT 17, 2011 Florence & Bella Italia Monte Carlo, Monaco to Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy 7 Seabourn Legend $2,799 OCT 21, 2011 Dalmatian Discoveries Round-trip Venice, Italy 7 Seabourn Spirit $2,199 OCT 21, 2011 NOV 4, 2011 Italian Idyll Round-trip Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy 7 Seabourn Legend $2,499 OCT 28, 2011 Gems of the Adriatic Round-trip Venice, Italy 7 Seabourn Spirit $2,199 OCT 28, 2011 Mediterranean Autumn Piraeus (Athens), Greece to Malaga, Spain 8 Seabourn Quest $2,799 OCT 31, 2011 Maiden Transatlantic Malaga, Spain to Fort Lauderdale 13 Seabourn Quest $3,299 NOV 8, 2011 Adriatic Autumn Venice, Italy to Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy 7 Seabourn Spirit $2,199 NOV 11, 2011 Mediterranean Tapestry Venice, Italy to Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy 8 Seabourn Odyssey $2,799 NOV 14, 2011 Mediterranean Discovery Nice, France to Piraeus (Athens), Greece 14 Seabourn Legend $3,799 NOV 18, 2011 Mediterranean Mosaic Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy to Malaga, Spain 7 Seabourn Spirit $2,199 NOV 18, 2011 New World Passage Malaga, Spain to Fort Lauderdale 14 Seabourn Spirit $2,699 NOV 25, 2011 Mediterranean Highlights Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy to Malaga, Spain 10 Seabourn Odyssey $3,499 NOV 29, 2011 New World Odyssey Malaga, Spain to Fort Lauderdale 11 Seabourn Odyssey $2,299 DEC 9, 2011

View more special offers Arabia & India > South & Central America > Caribbean >

OR CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL.at 360-687-9579

**November 11th sailing on Seabourn Legend is from Monte Carlo, Monaco, to Nice, France. *Fares are in U.S. dollars, cruise-only, for new bookings only, per guest, double occupancy and subject to availability. Some suite categories may not be available. Fares are not combinable with any other offer, may vary by sailing date, are capacity controlled, subject to change without notice, and are only available to residents of the Americas. Government fees and taxes of $51.61 to $165.40 per person are additional. Certain restrictions apply. Call for details. Information herein is accurate at time of publication. Seabourn reserves the right to correct errors. Seabourn reserves the right to charge a fuel supplement for all guests, without prior notice, if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70.00USD per barrel, and may collect such a supplement even if the cruise fare has been paid in full. Ships’ registry: Bahamas. ©2011 Seabourn.

One Week Only Deal From MSC CRUISE LINE

INDEPENDENCE DAY SALE – ONE WEEK ONLY! July 1st through July 8th In celebration of Independance Day we’re offering a special one week sale on our 2011/2012 Caribbean and Canada/New England sailings. Discover underwater reefs, lush rainforests, and pastel villages in the Caribbean or enjoy the colonial charm and awe inspiring fall foliage in Canada New England. Whichever destination you choose you’ll set sail in true Italian elegance and style aboard a luxurious MSC cruise. Take advantage of this limited time offer and receive a complimentary shipboard credit. Book an Interior or Oceanview and get $50 Shipboard Credit Book a Balcony and get up to a 5 Category Upgrade Plus $100 Shipboard Credit Canada/New England Cruises 7 night sailings Starting From $529* Oct. 8, 2011-MSC Poesia | New York to Quebec Ports of Call: New York, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown, Quebec 14 night sailings Starting From $1,199* Oct. 8, 2011-MSC Poesia | Roundtrip from New York Ports of Call: New York, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown, Quebec St John, Bar Harbor, Boston, Newport, New York Caribbean Cruises 4 night Sailings Starting From $249* Nov. 10, 2011-MSC Poesia | Roundtrip Port Everglades Ports of Call: Port Everglades, Key West, Nassau 5 night Sailings Starting From $299* Nov. 14, 2011-MSC Poesia | Roundtrip Port Everglades Ports of Call: Port Everglades, Costa Maya, Cozumel 7 night Sailings Starting From $499* Nov. 19, Dec 16, Dec 30, Jan 14-MSC Poesia | Roundtrip Port Everglades Ports of Call: Port Everglades, Key West, Cozumel, Isla De Roatan, Montego Bay Feb. 18, 2012-MSC Poesia | Roundtrip Port Everglades Ports of Call:Port Everglades, Charlotte Amalie, San Juan, Nassau

Robert Foster TravelSmartbyKandB.com Battle Ground, WA, 98604 360-687-9579 travelsmart@wildblue.net

*Rates are USD, per person, double occupancy, cruise-only valid for new retail bookings only on select sailings and stateroom types for residents of U.S. and Canada. Rates displayed are based on the lowest category on the following MSC Poesia sailings: October 8-$529* (government taxes and fees of 79.25pp are additional) ; October 29-$899* (government taxes and fees of 58.56pp are additional) ; October 8-$1,199* (government taxes and fees of 94.92pp are additional) ; November 10-$249* (government taxes and fees of 58.14pp are additional) ; November 14-$299* (government taxes and fees of 34.28pp are additional) ; December 16-$499* (government taxes and fees of 61.85pp are additional) Inside & Ocean View cabins will receive $25 pp (max $50 per cabin) SBC; Balcony Standard & Superior cabins will receive $ 50 pp (max $100 per cabin) SBC. Suites are excluded from SBC. Amount of SBC is based on rate paid. Offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion and may be withdrawn without notice. Offer is capacity controlled, subject to availability and restrictions apply. Government taxes and fees for all guests are additional. MSC Cruises reserves the right to pass on any fuel surcharge without notice to all guests. MSC Cruises reserves the right to refuse to honor any prices/sailings that are erroneously printed or quoted. Ask for “4th of July Sale” promotion when booking. Offer Expires July 8, 2011. Ship’s registry: Panama.

Need Help Planning Your Vacation

My travel agency is an  Independent Travel Center which is one of the best travel and cruise agency in the U.S and I am proud to offer our products and services to my customers.

Below are some of the different cruise lines and tour operators that we offer and use to give you the most value for your money and best vacation ever.  My agency offers both the convenience of Internet booking for those who like to do themselves to one on one planning of your vacation.

You can click on any of the links below and check out money saving specials, departure dates, reviews of cruises lines and tours to see if it is the right fit for you and your family.

Need help planning a family reunion or that special anniversary, Honey Moon or a quick get-a-way?  Give us a try!

If you ever have questions you may call me at 1-360-687-9579 and I would be delighted to help you with your travel plans.

Capt Bob

Cruise Lines

Azamara Cruises | Carnival Cruises | Celebrity Cruises | Costa Cruise Line | Crystal Cruises | Cunard Cruises | Disney Cruises | Holland America | Hurtigruten | MSC Cruises | Norwegian Cruise Lines | Oceania Cruises | Princess Cruises | Regent Cruises | Royal Caribbean | Seabourn Cruises | SeaDream Yacht Club | Silversea Cruises | Uniworld River Cruises | Viking River Cruises | Windstar Cruises

Tour Operators

Abercrombie and Kent | African Travel | Brendan Tours | Brennan Vacations | Central Holidays | CIE Tours | Contiki | Cosmos | Globus | Insight Vacations | Key Tours | Monograms | Qantas Vacations | Smithsonian Journeys | Tauck Tours | Trafalgar Tours | Viking Tours

Destinations

Africa Cruises | Africa Tours | Alaska Cruises | Asia Cruises | Australia Tours | Bahamas Cruises | Bermuda Cruises | Caribbean Cruises | Europe Cruises | Europe Tours | Hawaii Cruises | Mediterranean Cruises | Mexico Cruises | Mexico Tours | New Zealand Tours | Panama Canal Cruises | South America Cruises | South America Tours | South Pacific Cruises | USA Tours

Considering A Cruise For Your Next Vacation

Why Take a Cruise Vacation ?

Have you ever considered taking a cruise vacation but just aren’t sure if it would be right for you? With all the cruise lines choices, all the different destinations, the range of prices, there is a cruise that is just right for you and your family! One of best ways to find if a cruise is the right vacation for you is to ask your friends, relatives and experienced travel professional that is versed in cruise travel.

Packing and Unpacking only Once!

Think about this, on a cruise you don’t drive anywhere for 7, 10, 14 days or more.  Now, even if you were on a bus tour with no driving yourself, you still have to haul your luggage or at least pack and unpack it at each stop. On a cruise, you check your luggage when you check in and it magically appears in your cabin, stateroom, or suite. You unpack once, feeling at home for the duration of the cruise. The cruise staff will tell you when to place your bags outside your accommodations at the end of the cruise and, just as magically, your luggage will be waiting for you on shore at a designated pick-up point. Taking a cruise vacation frees you from a lot of the hassles and headaches of traveling.

I am sure you have taken a driving vacation

There’s always the question of where and when to stop to eat when your driving.   All your meals and snacks are included in the price of your cruise and great food is one of the main attractions of taking a cruise.  Most contemporary cruises take into account the modern casual lifestyle and provide a variety of restaurants and snack bars on board. Typically, there is a varied and plentiful breakfast and lunch buffets similar to what you would find in any resort. You can eat breakfast, lunch or dinner in one of the ship’s restaurants, ordering exactly what you want from the ample menu, prepared fresh just for you. The ship’s restaurants are usually open for meals for extended hours and buffets are generally open all day and into the night.  They also have the comfort foods like hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza and ice cream for the kids and adults alike.  And there is always the midnight buffet available on most cruises?  Room service (free of charge) is available 24 hours a day.  Your choices are unlimited for your dining pleasures. Lobster dinner anyone! By the way you can have more than one!

Dining is an important event on a cruise ship

This is tradition dating back when cruises were for royalty and the wealthy, who expected elegant formal dinners. In today’s lifestyle, an elegant dinner is optional and for those who prefer to dine casually, the dinner buffet is available usually until 9 pm or later.  Most cruise ships offer excellent dining options, especially at dinner, in the main dining rooms (there are 2 or 3 dining rooms) or offer meals at upscale specialty restaurants at additional cover charge per person.  Cruise lines base much of their reputation on their food service and the terms such as “world class cuisine” and “gourmet meals” are combined with “impeccable service” to insure that the on-board dining experience is truly memorable one.  By the way, room service is free and available 24 hours a day, and you get the same great meals serve  on your balcony or in your  room.  For those who prefer a romantic quite dinner for two, all cruise lines  offer, for a nominal charge,  a romantic champagne dinner for 2, with all the trimmings, in your stateroom and you may add other favorites like flowers to surprise that special someone in your life.  Many cruises still offer one or more optional formal dinners where ladies wear long formal gowns or other evening dresses and gentlemen wear tuxedos or dark suits. Expect to see this offered at lease once on a seven day cruise to twice during longer cruises of 14 days or more.

Once on-board your cruise ship

There are activities 24 hours a day.  Modern cruise ships boast state-of-the-art 900 plus plus seat theaters for quality shows and entertainment, all  included in the cruise price. There is always unique entertainment in the theater every evening of the cruise and if you miss first show there is a second one that follows.  Most ships also have a number of themed bars, lounges, and discos with live entertainment that are open into the early morning hours. Most cruise lines will have different acts come on-board at each port of call and will sail and do their show until the next port of  call.  Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are seldom included in the cruise price. You may purchase coffee and soft drink cards on the first day of the cruise.  This will save you a lot of money because the card is good for the entire cruise.  All cruises  also provide a casino that is open while the ship is in international waters.  Don’t forget they also have a movie theater on- board just in case you missed that just released movie you planned to watch.  Not tickets required and snacks served during the showing.  Did I mention Movies Under the Stars!

If night life isn’t your style

You and your family can enjoy the on-board pool, shops,  spa’s, library, world class fitness centers and other amenities while on-board.  Many cruises now offer instructional classes on a variety of topics during each day of your cruise for adults and children. Each activity is posted daily to your room.  Many also offer special lectures with world famous speakers.  Every cruise line offers the art lovers venues because they offer art from all over the world to be auctioned off during the cruise, some are one of kind.  The casino’s are open only when a sea and offer a variety of poker to slots to Bingo tournaments  with cash awards to the winners!  Never gambled before but would like to learn, they have casino personnel to show you the ends and out of the games and no cost to you.  There is always something for the whole family to do while on-board ship!

Consider taking your Children on the cruise

The cruise lines provide specializes play areas and programs geared to different age groups, each with its own trained staff.  Some cruises lines offer “kids sail free” when staying in their parents staterooms others offer this as a promotion to get the whole family involved in cruising.  There are a few rules and you need to check with cruise lines to insure your children safety and your own peace of mind.  Don’t worry, your children will have plenty to do while board and they get their own ship daily program of events just for them delivered to your stateroom. Some ships have their own dinning areas just for kids.

Don’t forget about the cruise destinations itself

Cruises typically stop at a different port of call each day or every other day, depending upon distances and sailing time between points of interest. You have the option to stay on-aboard the ship all day or disembark at any stop. You are free to explore each destination on your own as long as you return to the ship by the designated time.  If there is place in the world you would like to explore, consider a cruise.  A cruise will give you a taste of each port so you can consider whether you would like to come back and stay for a longer vacation.  Remember, your hotel is in the harbor waiting for you when you return.

Cruise lines offer a variety of shore excursions at additional cost

You should  arrange your excursions prior to departure or while on-board.  Remember, one thing, the most popular excursion may not be available once the ship leave port.  Check with the excursion desk when you first arrive to check availability of the excursion you would like to take.  Ships excursions are geared toward the unique features of the destination. For example, Caribbean cruises offer snorkeling, diving or beach excursions while Alaskan cruises offer helicopter tours of the glaciers, dogsled trips to gold panning.  For the less adventuresome,  there are bus tours or supervised shopping excursions in the local port.  Everything, including meal stops, is prearranged. All you need to do is find the correct line on-shore and an experienced guide handles the rest of your tour.  But don’t worry the ships has plenty of people out there to help you find the excursion you paid for, normally the ship will have briefings on where to find your excursion before you leave the ship.

Don’t forget to Celebrate those Special Occasions

Anniversaries, Birthdays, Graduations, Weddings, Honeymoons are all special and a cruise is a great way to show how much you care.  The ships staff will make a fuss over your very special occasion from singing Happy Birthday to hanging an announcements outside your door telling the world you are special.  Make sure you let the cruise line know ahead of time, so they will be prepared to help you celebrate that all important occasion.

Types of Staterooms

What type of stateroom should you consider?  This is a question only you can answer.  It depends on many factors, cost, the number of guest that will be sharing a stateroom.  Normally, a cruise lines offers a variety of staterooms in the same category.  Your choices are an Inside stateroom, Outside View stateroom, Balconies staterooms and  Suites.

Inside stateroom

Are generally about 160 to 180 square foot, comes with 2 standard beds (converts to a queen) with a small closet, luggage storage is under the bed, a vanity with bathroom with shower,telephone and television and is generally the least expensive way to cruise.  Inside staterooms with accommodate  up to four depending on the size and number of beds.  Some cruise ships offer inside staterooms that rival the best balcony in square footage but with out a view.  Some of the bigger Cruise  ships now offer solo passenger staterooms overlooking the promenade at a reasonable price.

Outside stateroom

Are generally about 180 to 220 square feet and comes with 2 standard beds (convert to a queen) with a average size closet, luggage storage is under the bed, a vanity with bathroom and shower, telephone,television and generally either comes with a full size floor to ceiling window that opens to allow fresh air to enter the room. These rooms can accommodate up to 3 or 4 depending on size and number of beds in the room.  Some of these outside  stateroom are offered in obstructed view (means outside view may be blocked by life boats or other objects) which is usually cheaper on the wallet but offers less privacy.

Balcony Staterooms

Are generally about 220 to 350 square feet which includes the balcony and comes with 2 standard or 2 queens size beds that convert to either a queen or king.  It has a walk-in bath area with vanity, larger closet that will accommodate some luggage with luggage storage under the bed, telephone, television and mini-bar plus frig.  These staterooms will accommodate 3 or 4 people depending on size and beds.  Advantage to a balcony verses an outside or inside stateroom is privacy.  Your room opens to a balcony that has chairs and a table so you can relax after a hard day of exploring.  Watching an early morning sun rise with your morning coffee or a late night sail-a-way with your favorite beverage  is worth the price.

Mini-Suites

Are generally between 250 to 350 square feet and comes with a balcony.  They come with 2 standard or queen beds that convert to either a queen or king with a separate living room area.  Also included is a bar area, a walk in bath with vanity, luggage storage in over size closets, telephones, one or two televisions.  Mini-suites can accommodate up to 4 again depending on location and size.

Suites

Are generally between 350 to 14000 square feet and come in different categories.  They come with all the amenities of the mini-suite but with two to three or more bedrooms with children’s room adjoining.  Additional things found in suites are DVD players with movies on demand, IPOD docks, and computer terminals.  Bathrooms generally are a separate area with walk in jacuzzi type tubs and separate showers with large dressing rooms and separate walk-in closets. Suites have a separate living area and butler service area. All  suites (except Mini’s) have a full time butler and concierge which they will take care of all your request and needs (from arranging excursion to dining arrangements with one simple telephone call)  from the time to check-in until you depart the ship.  Another advantage to taking a suite is you are given preference when checking in or off the ship.

Consider upgrading!

It never hurts to ask the for a cost comparison between stateroom categories.  You might be surprised to find for less that $100 per person you can be in a balcony or suite.  Always ask your travel agent about special cruise offers and last minute deals.  You can save hundreds of dollars my working closely with your travel agent.  With all these great services available at a reasonable cost, why not take a cruise vacation? Follow the link below to my cruise site.

CruisesbyCaptBob

Sail In The Caribbean For The Holiday’s

The Holidays Are On Sale! Book a Balcony Stateroom at an Ocean View rate. Or Book a Balcony Superior at a Balcony Standard rate. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate this holiday season with your family and friends Caribbean style! You and yours will enjoy eight exciting days and seven breathtaking nights of pastel villages, crystal clear waters, and sun drenched beaches. All while cruising the Caribbean in true Italian elegance and style on board the luxurious MSC Poesia. 7 Night Thanksgiving Cruise from $649*pp 7 Night Christmas Cruise from $799*pp 7 Night New Year’s Cruise from $949*pp 7 Night President’s Day Cruise from $699*pp 7 Nights | MSC POESIA Thanksgiving Cruise WEST CARIBBEAN WONDERS: Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale, Florida | Key West, Florida | Ocho Rios, Jamaica | Georgetown, Grand Cayman | Cozumel, Mexico Dates Fares from November 19 649* Complimentary upgrade from Oceanview to Balcony or Balcony Standard to Balcony Superior! 7 Nights | MSC POESIA Christmas Cruise EAST CARIBBEAN: Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale, St. Thomas, San Juan, Nassau Dates Fares from December 23 799* Complimentary upgrade from Oceanview to Balcony or Balcony Standard to Balcony Superior! 7 Nights | MSC POESIA New Years Cruise WEST CARIBBEAN: Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Cozumel, Isla de Roatan, Montego Bay Dates Fares from December 30 949* Complimentary upgrade from Oceanview to Balcony or Balcony Standard to Balcony Superior! 7 Nights | MSC POESIA Presidents Day Cruise EAST CARIBBEAN : Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale, Florida | St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands San Juan, Puerto Rico | Nassua, Bahamas Dates Fares from February 18 699* Complimentary upgrade from Oceanview to Balcony or Balcony Standard to Balcony Superior!

Robert Foster Travel Smart and Cruises By Capt Bob Battle Ground, WA, 98604 1-800-308-3077 Travelsmart@wildblue.net

*Rates are USD, per person, double occupancy, cruise-only valid for new retail bookings only on select sailings and stateroom types for residents of U.S. and Canada. Inside & Suites are excluded from this offer. Offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion and may be withdrawn without notice. Offer is capacity controlled, subject to availability and restrictions apply.� Government taxes and fees for all guests are additional and are as follows: December 30 – $61.85; December 23 – $72.85. MSC Cruises reserves the right to pass on any fuel surcharge without notice to all guests. MSC Cruises reserves the right to refuse to honor any prices/sailings that are erroneously printed or quoted. Ask for “Holidays On Sale” promotion when booking. Offer expires June 30, 2011. Ship’s registry: Panama.

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