CruiseOne 4 Day Sale!

Book an outside or above stateroom category and receive Complimentary Pre-Paid Gratuities and a Spa Treatment!

Booking Window: December 7 – 10, 2010

Book an outside or above stateroom category and receive Complimentary Pre-Paid Gratuities and a Spa Treatment! Limit one treatment per stateroom. Choose one of the following three treatments once onboard: La Thérapie Hydrolift Facial; Swedish Massage; Reflexology including Massage

Applicable Sailings:
Any 5-Night or longer Royal Caribbean cruise departing in 2011
(NOTE: Applicable bookings on the Grandeur of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas are excluded from the spa offer, and will receive the gratuity offer only)

Some important notes: •
Pre-paid gratuities are applicable to Passengers 1&2 only. Any additional guests in the stateroom will be responsible for paying their own gratuities.
• Pre-paid gratuities will not show on the booking at RCI until 10 days prior to sailing
• Cash value of gratuities cannot be advertised
• A voucher confirming guests’ spa gift will be provided by CruiseOne HQ after the offer has been added to the booking. This voucher MUST be presented by guest to Day Spa staff prior to booking spa appointments to apply. Guest booking will be added to a manifest sent to the ship prior to departure for verification purposes.
• Spa offer is limited to one per stateroom. It will be at the guests’ discretion as to which guest in the stateroom redeems the offer.

Special offer includes pre-paid gratuities for the first and second guest in a stateroom and one spa treatment per stateroom. Gratuities for 3rd, 4th or more guests in the same stateroom will be at the guest's discretion. Limit one pre-paid gratuities offer, up to two guests, and one spa treatment per stateroom. Pre-paid gratuity and spa offer valid on any 5-Night or longer Royal Caribbean cruise departing in 2011. Applicable bookings on the Grandeur of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas are excluded from the spa offer, and will receive the gratuity offer only. Offers applicable to outside and above stateroom categories. Bookings must be created between December 7 – December 10, 2010 to receive this special offer. Offer is applicable to FIT/individual bookings only, not applicable to groups. The pre-paid gratuity offer is in US dollars, has no cash value, is not transferable, and cannot be redeemed for cash. Additional restrictions may apply. ©2010 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships registered in the Bahamas.

Please call CruiseOne Freer & Associates to reserve your stateroom or for details on this exclusive offer, 888-882-5793 or visit us on the web at www.GetLostAtSea.com.

We offer cruise and land vacations at the best price, guaranteed. We help provide you with a vacation & memories that will last a lifetime! We have volume purchasing power, industry expertise & commitment to providing the best possible experience.

Oasis and Allure of the Seas On Board Credit

Have you been wanting to sail on one of the newest and most innovative ships at sea and you have been hoping for an amazing deal that you just cannot pass up? Well, here it is! We have on board credit for ANY Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas sailing that departs between January 1, 2011 through March 30, 2011.


These two ships are packed with amenities, including 7 different neighborhoods (including Central Park, Boardwalk and the Youth Zone). You can find Flowrider surf simulators, a zip line through the ship, rock climbing wall, a carousel, and MUCH more. And for the kids and kids at heart, you can also find Dreamworks on board ... yes, Shrek and Fiona, Kung Fu Panda plus others will be joining you on your cruise. And for those adults, there is plenty for you as well, including an adult only Solarium.






Book an inside, outside or balcony category stateroom between December 1 – 17, 2010, and receive $100 Onboard Credit per stateroom!

Book a suite category stateroom between December 1 – 17, 2010, and receive $150 Onboard Credit per Stateroom!


So, what are you waiting for? Give us a call today to book your stateroom on board the Oasis of the Seas or the Allure of the Seas.


CruiseOne Freer & Associates, 888-882-5793. kfreer@cruiseone.com www.GetLostAtSea.com

Terms and Conditions:
Onboard credit offer is valid new individual bookings created between December 1 - December 17, 2010 on any Oasis of the Seas or Allure of the Seas sailing departing between January 1 - March 31, 2011. Bookings in an inside, outside, or balcony category stateroom will receive a $100 onboard credit per stateroom. Bookings in a suite category stateroom will receive a $150 onboard credit per stateroom. Booking eligibility is based on when the booking is created not deposited or date of final payment. This offer is not transferable. OBC is in U.S. dollars and is not redeemable for cash. This offer is valid for new individual bookings only. Offer not applicable to Groups. Limit one onboard credit offer per booking. Subject to availability. Offer can be withdrawn at any time. Additional restrictions may apply. ©2010 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships registered in the Bahamas.

Sailing on the Norwegian Epic

We have just returned from CruiseOne’s National Conference, which was held onboard NCL’s newest ship, the Epic. I have to start off by saying this ship was absolutely amazing! It far exceeded any of my expectations in all venues.

The Epic made its debut in July 2010. She is an impressive 153,000 tons, carries approximately 4,228 passengers and is 1,080 feet long (that is about the length of 4 football fields!). The ship is made up of inside staterooms and balcony staterooms. You won’t find any staterooms with simply a window. The categories range from interior studio staterooms (which are the first in the industry to accommodate a single passenger without a single supplement) interior staterooms, balconies, family balconies, spa balconies, deluxe balconies in different categories, suites, courtyard penthouses, courtyard villas and of course an owner’s suite. So many to choose from! We stayed in a balcony stateroom, and I have to admit, after all the press over the Epic’s staterooms, I was a little bit nervous! However, I was pleasantly surprised upon entering our stateroom. Yes, they are a bit tight and yes, the bathroom layout is quite different and privacy is reduced. But, the rooms are beautiful. And to be honest, with a ship that is packed with fabulous entertainment options, there really isn’t a lot of time spent in the room at all.

So, here is a rundown of our week (I will leave out the details of our conference simply because that was “work”).

We boarded Saturday, October 16th, and the embarkation process was a breeze. I expected major lines and delays since this was the largest ship I had ever sailed on. No lines, no wait. We went right through the process. This day, we had to go register for our events, so we headed straight to the Epic Theater. This is where they hold venues such as The Blue Man Group and Legends in Concert. After registration we spent some time walking around, but had some things to get ready for. For dinner, we ate in one of the main dining rooms (at NO cost) Taste. We just showed up when convenient for us, got seated and ate. The food was wonderful. We headed off to the stateroom early as the next day was quite busy for us.


Sunday, October 17th was a day at sea for us and we had plenty of work during the morning and early afternoon. I have to say that for a group of 800 travel agents, NCL sure did make it seem easy to accommodate us with our meetings and breakout sessions. In the evening, we had our Awards Ceremony in Spice H2O, which is at the rear of the ship. It is a beautiful outdoor area with a huge TV screen (if anyone saw the 4th of July special from New York on board the Epic it was held in the same area). NCL was a wonderful host, and I will not be able to reiterate that enough. After our work packed day, we had dinner at Manhattans (one of two restaurants that do not let you wear shorts, and yes, it is FREE). Again, dinner was fabulous. The menu here is the same as in Taste. After that … off to bed!


Monday, October 18th, we were in Costa Maya Mexico. We chose to do an excursion visiting the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, which was fabulous. We had a great time and our tour operator was great. Upon returning to the ship, we got cleaned up, and headed out for some exploration. First stop … we went bowling. Yes, bowling! Quite a concept for a cruise ship. There are 6 lanes onboard (3 in two different locations). We were in Bliss Ultra Lounge, which is a nice night club. For dinner, we had reservations at Teppanyaki ($20 per person). This restaurant was amazing and well worth the cost! Japanese Hibachi at sea! The food was outstanding and our chef was quite entertaining! After this we headed off to Blue Man Group. We have seen this show before in New York and Vegas. As I was sitting there watching the show, I completely forgot that I was on a cruise ship. It was wonderful. And now, it’s off to bed!


Tuesday, October 19th, we were in Roatan Honduras. We did another excursion, Jolly Roger Catamaran (snorkeling) and Gumbalimba Park. We started off at the Park, which was really nice. We learned a bit about the history of Roatan, toured the park, which felt like a rain forest. We crossed a long bridge where on the other side we found beautiful parrots. They were flying free, which was quite the sight. There was also a trainer that would place a parrot on your shoulder for photo opportunities. It was a nice experience. Then we were off to “monkey island” where there were monkeys climbing trees and roaming free. Another trainer was there for photo opportunities. After the park, we hopped on a bus to head towards the catamaran where we boarded and off we went to the reef. We learned that this reef is the second largest in the world. It was by far my favorite snorkeling experience. We saw so many tropical fish and corals. It was beautiful. I could have stayed for hours. But, of course, it had to end. Back on board the catamaran and back to the ship. Tonight we have dinner reservations at Cirque Dreams in the Spiegel Tent. This was quite the show. The actors were wonderful and there was a fair amount of audience participation. The menu is a fixed menu, there is no choice for dinner. However, dinner was very good. We had premium seating ($30 per person) for this venue. I have to say that although we enjoyed the show, the seats were a bit uncomfortable and we did feel tight. We sat right next to the performance area. But, with that said … I would do it again! It is a two hour show, and you must stay seated through the entire performance. Next time, I think I will do the regular seating as you are in a balcony section. I think it might be easier to watch the performances. After the show, we stopped by Shakers Martini Bar for a drink, and then headed off to bed.


Wednesday, October 20th was a day at sea which meant we had to go to work again! After work, we toured the ship some more, stopped at Shakers again and we had reservations for The Second City comedy show (no charge). Had a great time. Wish the show was longer (ran about an hour). Second City does a lot of improv and they involve the audience members quite a bit. There were children in the audience and the show was not offensive at all.


Thursday, October 21st we were in Cozumel Mexico. Being that the weather did not cooperate and we had just visited Cozumel a few weeks prior, we decided to stay on board the ship. This gave us an opportunity to walk around while the ship was fairly empty and see what the Epic was all about. We literally walked deck to deck. The options are endless on this ship! We took lots of photos, enjoyed lunch in O’Sheehan’s Bar and Grill (which we had lunch in often at no charge) and just soaked it all in. Tonight it is off to dinner in La Cucina, which is an Italian Venue ($10 per person). Again, the food was wonderful and the atmosphere was great. This restaurant is at the front of the ship so your view is the same as the Capitan! I wish it wasn’t night time, we could see more. But the moon was spectacular. After dinner we finally got in to the Ice Bar. Yes, an actual bar where everything is made of ice. This is a small venue, and does fill up fast. We tried each night to get in, but until tonight could not find a time where it fit with our schedule. We were given gloves and a coat with a hood and headed in. It is 17 degrees in this bar. You can stand next to a Polar Bear ice sculpture or sit on a bench made of ice. This venue is $20 per person, and included in that is 2 drinks. Your drinks also come in an ice glass. Quite the experience. I have to say, we only stayed long enough to have the first drink. It was cold!! Off to bed again as tomorrow is another work day.



Friday, October 22nd, our last night on board the ship. We had meetings and workshops during the morning and early afternoon. We also had our farewell cocktail reception which again reminded us that we would have to leave soon. We had not made any dinner reservations, and wanted to try Cagney’s steakhouse ($25 per person). I called the reservations line and was told there was no availability. Well, we decided to walk down there anyway and ask. Sure enough, we were seated. I’m sure there are people that make reservations and for whatever reason cannot make their scheduled time. Lucky for us. I decided on the Surf & Turf (filet and lobster) and my husband had the filet. Both were awesome. Great environment as well. As we wrapped up dinner, the realization hit us again that we had to finish packing and our trip was soon ending.

Saturday, October 23rd, we opted for the walk off disembarkation, where we carried our own luggage. We were off the ship at around 7:30 am, which was nice. Got in our car and headed home.

This ship was totally amazing. The food, the entertainment, the service. All far exceeded our expectations. Also, I didn’t even come close to telling you about the entertainment (the pool, the water slides, the Epic Plunge, the rock climbing and rappelling wall, the sports complex, the spa, the fitness center). I didn’t get to experience it all! There was simply not enough time. I guess I will just have to go again!


Norwegian Cruise Lines as absolutely changed the idea of cruising. With all that the ship has to offer along with its Freestyle Cruising it truly is the perfect vacation! You have so many options, you can eat in so many venues when you want. You don’t have to get dressed up to eat. It was wonderful. Kudos to NCL for this one!

The Epic currently sails the Eastern and Western Caribbean, and will head over to Europe on May 7, 2011, and will begin doing a 7 night Western Mediterranean sailing round trip from Barcelona Spain on May 22, 2011. She will return to Miami late October 2011 and resume the Caribbean sailings.

We would love to help you plan your vacation on the Norwegian Epic. Give CruiseOne Freer & Associates a call at 888-882-5793 and we would be more than happy to provide you with rates and options for you. You can also visit us on the web at www.kfreer.cruiseone.com.

Take a look at our slide show to see other pictures of our trip!

Free picture slideshow created with Smilebox

No Better Time To Book Your Cruise Vacation!

October is National Cruise Vacation Month, and we are hosting a virtual World’s Largest Cruise Night (WLCN). This is a once-a-year period during which travel agencies across North America sponsor exciting events and promotions all focused on cruising – the most enjoyable, satisfying and value-oriented vacation option available in today’s marketplace. We have many wonderful deals on most major cruise lines, which include upgrades, on board credits, reduced deposits and dollars off.

Some examples are below:

Princess Cruises, October 11 – 16, 2010, we are offering reduced deposits and an onboard value booklet worth $325.00 in savings

Holland America, October 17 – 31, 2010, we are offering reduced deposits and an onboard value booklet worth $450.00 in savings

Royal Caribbean, October 18 – 24, 2010, we are offering up to $200.00 off on selected sailings when booking an ocean view stateroom or above

CruiseOne Freer & Associates has chosen several short videos showcasing the exciting offerings and destinations from participating CLIA member lines. For extra convenience, the Web page will be live until the end of the October. Please visit http://wlcn.cruising.org/kmfreer or Click Here for details.

These offers must be booked by telephone. Please call us at 888-882-5793 or email us at kfreer@cruiseone.com for details.

What’s the Difference Between Cruise Lines?

Which fleet is the best? What is the best ship? These are questions that cruisers ask, and they are almost impossible to answer since everyone’s tastes and priorities are so different. With that said, we can help you pick your ideal cruise vacation by explaining some of the main features of the major cruise lines. Here are nine of the top 20 fleets, alphabetically listed. Please keep in mind … cruise lines attempt to please a wide range of people and all provide some common amenities. However, with a little research, you should be able to narrow down your choices to a couple of cruise lines depending on your lifestyle, interests and budget.

Azamara Club Cruises
While they may only enlist two ships, their itineraries reach far across Europe, Asia and South America. You will find a country club atmosphere on these medium sized, ultra premium ships, in part due to the more casual dress policy and wood paneled lounges. You can expect exceptional cuisine and service, outstanding itineraries that include an overnight stay in a port on every cruise and upscale accommodations.

Carnival Cruise Lines
Not only are they the world’s largest cruise line, but they are also the most popular. Hallmarks of this fleet include the cruise industry’s most vibrant nightlife, above average food and large staterooms. If you love Las Vegas, these ships will certainly fit the bill. The entertainment is dazzling and the casino is lively throughout the day and night. Families also flock to the “Fun Ships” because of Camp Carnival’s supervised activities, the spiral waterslides and the other kids’ facilities. Best of all, the super low prices on Carnival make the fleet a big hit with families, singles, couples, groups … just about everyone!

Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity offers an upscale cruise experience with a focus on food and service. These award winning ships have a casual European atmosphere, with a great selection of modern art and contemporary design. You will find more newlyweds, couples celebrating anniversaries and families with older children on board. The fleet’s newest vessels offer plenty of balcony staterooms, gourmet restaurants, posh spas, glass blowing demonstrations and a real lawn for picnics, putting, croquet or bocce ball.

Holland America Line
Here you will find a sophisticated style of cruising aboard medium sized ships with larger than average staterooms and a rich history of premium service. These classically designed ships cater to cruisers who like a more tranquil cruise experience with refined entertainment, fine art auctions and immersive enrichment classes. Holland America is a natural choice for many multi-generational families, travelers over the age of 55 and couples marking special occasions.

Norwegian Cruise Line
NCL is best known for “Freestyle Cruising,” which is a big hit for those seeking an unstructured seagoing vacation. You can eat whenever you want, with whomever you want. No dress code to follow in the main dining rooms. Small surcharges expand your options to seemingly countless specialty restaurants. Highlights on the newest ships include an ultra chic lounge with plush beds and bowling lanes, a lounge made of ice, Blue Man Group performances, Second City comedy shows and a Cirque du Soleil dinner theater. With all of this for some of the most affordable fares at sea, the industry’s youngest fleet is popular with families, singles and couples.

Oceania Cruises
While they say they are not a luxury cruise line, the experience certainly is close to it. The food is overseen by Jacques Pepin, and it is among the best in the cruise industry. The 640 passenger ships fill up quickly with loyal guests (many of them retired) and who enjoy single seating dining in four restaurants, very polished service and staterooms boasting down comforters, high thread European sheets and, if you are in a suite, personal butlers.

Princess Cruises
Princess has a loyal following of travelers who love the ships; dining program where you may choose assigned seating or dining whenever and with whomever you please. The fleet has come a very long way since earning fame on the 1970’s “Love Boat” TV show. Today, Princess’ ships feature contemporary design and stylish amenities alongside very good food, nice staterooms, friendly service and superior shore excursions. While there are families aboard every cruise, these floating resorts primarily attract couples of all ages.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent provides a true luxury cruise experience with large staterooms, superb dining, exceptional service, onboard experts and worldwide itineraries. Both ships host less than 700 guests, showcase Scandinavian décor, and offer extraordinary spas operated by Carita of Paris. Fares include opulent accommodations, roundtrip airfare, gratuities, all beverages and unforgettable shore excursions.

Royal Caribbean International
They are among the most innovative fleets in the industry, boasting the world’s largest cruise ships and arguably the most with a real “wow” factor. Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas each offer an unprecedented set of onboard experiences: 2 surfing wave pools, high diving shows at an outdoor amphitheater, scuba lessons in a pool, zip line rides, a boardwalk carousel, street performers, loft suites, and outdoor grass park with sidewalk cafes and much more. Previous ships in the fleet introduced the first rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, mall sized promenades and other onboard thrills. Endless options for dining, accommodations and activities, plus amazing values make Royal Caribbean a favorite for families with kids, couples, singes, groups and cruisers of every kind.

CruiseOne offers a variety of insurance plans to accommodate all of your needs plus we offer all the major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service. Contact Kathy & Eric Freer, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at 321-735-0202 or toll free at 888-882-5793, or via the web at www.cruiseone.com/kfreer for more information.

Set your Sights on South America

Often described as exotic, mysterious and magical, South America is a place of extremes.
Where else can you discover the world's highest waterfall, longest mountain range, driest desert and largest rainforest?

Onboard a South American cruise you’ll explore some of the world's most exotic and exciting ports. By night the ship will sail the open seas and by day you’ll experience dazzling cities, ancient ruins, lush jungles and more.

Stroll the cobbled streets of Buenos Aires and take in the cities European flair. You’ll find first rate opera houses, museums and cathedrals on par with any in Europe. Yet this city has one thing Europe does not; the tango. There is no better place in the world to experience this sensuous dance.

Another exciting port of call is Callao/Lima, Peru. Discover the mysterious lost city of Machu Picchu, perched high above the Urubamba River and surrounded by lush vegetation and concealed by awe inspiring mountain peaks. The “Lost City” is more impressive than words and truly a once in a lifetime experience.

As your ship sails to the deep south, several mighty glaciers will start to come into view. You’ve arrived in Punta Arenas, Chile, home to beautiful landscapes including sparkling glaciers, majestic fjords and towering waterfalls. This mystical place is filled with colonies of sea lions and Magellanic penguins, and offers breathtaking views of the Straits of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego.

From here you will continue south to Cape Horn, the southernmost tip of South America. This beautiful, untamed Antarctic strait connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. As you pass from one ocean to the next keep your eyes open as it is common to see giant blocks of ice break off and crash in a dramatic manner. You'll also find a large number of sea birds, penguins and seals playfully meandering about.

Heading north you’ll find beautiful beaches set against a mountainous backdrop offering an ideal place for rest and relaxation. Rio de Janerio is known for her famous beaches, Ipanema and Copacabana, as well as Carnaval, the famous five-day celebration. But there is more to see and do in Rio. By day you can take the cable car up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for the view of a lifetime, head to the Amazon rainforest for a wild adventure or witness the famous art-deco statue of Christ the Redeemer. Then, when the sun sets the streets begin to pulsate with the sounds of samba and things really begin to heat up.

If you are looking for a vacation like no other and an opportunity to see more than your hotel room and its surroundings, then hop on board a South American cruise. The best way to see it all is on a cruise.

CruiseOne is the only thing you’ll need to plan your South American cruise vacation; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Kathy & Eric Freer, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at 321-735-0202 or toll free at 888-882-5793, or via the web at www.cruiseone.com/kfreer for more information.

Scenic Canada & New England

Sail the coastline of Canada & New England and experience the perfect change of scenery. Welcome spring, salute summer or celebrate the stunning beauty of autumn, with most lines sailing May through October.


What better way to enjoy the seasons and North America's most scenic, historic and culturally rich region. Eight cruise lines will sail throughout Canada and New England during the 2007 season offering a variety of itineraries sailing from New York, Cape Liberty, Boston, Baltimore, Montreal and Quebec City. Stops include unforgettable east coast cities like New York, Boston, Martha's Vineyard, Newport, RI; and Bar Harbor and Portland, ME. Canada ports of call include Montreal, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, New Foundland, Prince Edward Island and Québec City.

There are a host of different options when it comes to planning your Canada/New England cruise. Cruise lines are offering round-trip itineraries as well as the option to start your cruise in one destination and end somewhere else. Whether you are looking for a small yacht experience up the coast or a mega-ship with all the bells and whistles, a luxury cruise or a premium line, you’ll find one sailing the northern Atlantic this season.

Sailing throughout Canada and New England this season, you’ll admire the rich colors of nature but these cruises are about so much more than the scenery. You’ll have an opportunity to explore the east coasts most charming cities and rustic villages. Discover Newport, Rhode Island, the historic summer home of the rich and famous. Stroll the cities quaint streets, browse through the lavish shops and tour the famous Newport mansions. Retrace history in Boston as you journey along the three-mile Freedom Trail or visit historic Salem, best known for the 17th century witch hunts. In Bar Harbor, Maine you can visit the famed Acadia National Park with over 120 miles of ocean and mountain trails. Excursions include mountain biking, scenic drives through the park and carriage rides along with famous Carriage Trails. Indulge in a traditional lobster bake in Portland, Maine, visit the L.L Beach Flagship store, which opened in 1912, or ride the cog railway to the summit of Mt. Washington.

Heading towards our neighbors to the North, you’ll sail into Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia. Here, you can head out on a fishing expedition, sea kayak, whale watch, sail on a famous wooden Tall Ship or journey out to the country, sample award winning wine and visit a family farm to see how cheese is made. North America’s oldest city, Saint John, New Brunswick, offers so much to see and do. Take a bike tour of the covered bridges, tempt your taste buds at the Moosehead Beer Tasting, or visit the famous Bay of Fundy, home to some of the world’s highest tides, which rise to over 40 feet, which is equivalent to a four-story building. No trip to Canada would be complete without a visit to Québec City or Montreal. Part French, part English and all charm, both cities are rich in French ambiance, architecture and cuisine. Discover the breathtaking 272-foot Montmorency Falls just outside of Quebec City or ride the river rapids in Jacques Cartier National Park. In Montreal, the neo-Gothic Notre-Dame Basilica, built between 1824 and 1829, is not to be missed and just outside the city you can travel to the village of Rougemont, Québec's apple capital, where you will have an opportunity to visit a cider mill.

Canada and New England is a must see this season. Whether you choose to sail in the spring, summer or fall there is always something to see and plenty to do. CruiseOne is the only thing you’ll need to plan your next Canada/New England cruise vacation; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Kathy & Eric Freer, your Cruise Specialists at 321-735-0202 or toll free at 888-882-5793, or via the web at www.cruiseone.com/kfreer for more information.

Cruise Down Under

Looking for a cruise to far off places with unique landscapes and diverse cultures? How about a place with some of the world’s most incredible architecture, fascinating aborigine and Maori culture and miles of breathtaking coastlines? You’ll see all this and more on an Australia/New Zealand Cruise.

A cruise Down Under can fulfill almost every exotic adventure that a serious traveler could dream. Revel in the cosmopolitan attractions of Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland, gaze at the majestic natural beauty of New Zealand’s fjords and be amongst the few to explore Tasmania. Australia and New Zealand possess a wonderful diversity of sights, activities and cultures.


Cruising into the quintessential Aussie city of Sydney, one can’t help but notice the world famous Sydney Opera House, with its dramatic white-sailed design. Although Sydney is one of the largest city’s in the world, many of the things you will want to see and do are centered around the cities beautiful harbors. Sydney has it all: rich aboriginal and colonial history, stunning natural beauty and a cosmopolitan city center.


Another city you’ll likely visit in Australia is Melbourne with its fascinating blend of colonial history and modern amenities. Sites not to be missed include the downtown area’s Golden Mile and the Royal Botanical Garden. Hobart, the premier city of the island-state of Tasmania, is situated between Mount Wellington and the Derwent River. As Australia's second-oldest capital, it savors the present while revering its past.


Many of the cruise lines sail the Great Barrier Reef which is home to over 600 pristine islands, each with its own brilliant corals and spectacular sea creatures. Some of the lines even offer diving and snorkeling excursions on this natural wonder.

On your cruise you will also have the opportunity to visit New Zealand, the last landmass on earth to be discovered, making it the youngest country in the world. Auckland, one of the most beautifully situated cities is bordered by sparkling harbors, golden beaches, vineyards and rainforest You’ll find fine museums, expansive parks and an international community reflected in its many restaurants and shops. Another common port in New Zealand is Wellington, home to New Zealand's Parliament and the impressive Te Papa Museum. This cultural and artistic center is home to a thriving café and theater scene along with spectacular natural beauty. Spectacular scenic cruising is a must-see in southwest New Zealand's breathtaking World Heritage area, the majestic home of the Fiordland crested penguin, with 14 fiords and five icy-blue lakes.


Few travel experiences can rival the excitement of sailing into the glistening harbors of Sydney and discovering the rich cities of New Zealand. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these extraordinary countries on an Australia/New Zealand cruise.

CruiseOne is the only thing you’ll need to plan your next cruise; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Kathy & Eric Freer, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at (321) 735-0202 or toll free at (888)882-5793, or via the web at www.GetLostAtSea.com for more information.

Corporate Cruises

Business or pleasure? Why separate the two when you can have them both on a corporate cruise. Cruise lines now make it possible for you and your company to conduct all your business, meetings and conferences onboard cruise ships offering state-of-the-art facilities and every resource imaginable. Don’t settle for less when you can have it all -- every leisure amenity with plenty of time for the business at hand. A cruise is also a great option to employers for incentives and rewards trips, and a sure way to motivate and inspire your sales people and other staff to achieve higher goals and objectives.

Corporate Cruise Meetings:


Meetings at Sea
Today’s cruise ships can be thought of as floating conference centers complete with state of the art auditorium and meeting rooms with Wi-Fi capabilities, multi-image shows, theatrical special effects and more. There are rooms available that accommodate large sessions, breakout rooms and hospitality suites of all sizes. Since your associates can't stray too far when they're aboard ship, you can keep attendance higher and be more productive. There will also be plenty of time to enjoy the ship and its amenities as well as the ports that are visited. Mixing in some free time will be much appreciated by your associates. This also results in a higher participation when it comes to the business at hand.

A cruise is the perfect destination for your next corporate meeting. Annual meetings, board meetings, or sales conferences ... cruise ships offer state-of-the-art conference meeting facilities. You can expect to find fully dedicated conference centers onboard most cruise ships. These facilities can accommodate theatre-style, classroom-style, and boardroom-style functions. Most new cruise ships are now designed with full business capabilities. These cruise ships feature comfortable meeting rooms and multi-purpose lounges to accommodate groups up to 3300 passengers. A cruise ship can now be considered as a floating conference center, complete with sophisticated multi-media equipment and a personal meeting and event planner to accommodate your business agenda. Besides the use of the on board Conference Center, companies can hold awards ceremonies or meetings in a multi-tiered show lounge, or host a company dinner party in one of many restaurants. All cruise ships assign an Onboard Group Coordinator that is dedicated to assisting your group, throughout your cruise.


Our approach to Meetings at Sea has always been one that is customized to meet your needs. A cruise can offer you a wide variety of meeting rooms and audiovisual equipment that meets or exceed those that are found at land resorts. There are many differences between a land-based resort and meetings at sea, some examples are: the audiovisual equipment and meeting rooms are complimentary; on board entertainment is free; all meals are included in the cost of the cruise.

CruiseOne can assist your plan your next Corporate Meeting at Sea. Let us do the work for you! We will:

• Spend as much time as necessary discussing the needs and desires of your meeting at sea.
• Research & recommend the right ship to meet your business objectives.
• Negotiate the best pricing and amenities to fit your budget.
• Provide an experienced Account Executive who will serve as your day-to-day liaison with the cruise line, ground operators, airlines, etc.
• Provide unlimited consulting throughout the entire planning stage.
• Customize private events, excursions, cocktail parties, etc.
• Develop a written operational plan including event order and timelines.
• Manage a database of participants complete with manifests, registrations forms, invitations, and financial reconciliation.
• Provide the group with an onboard Group Coordinator throughout the course of your cruise to assist your group

Full Cruise Ship Charters:

What are full ship charters?
For large groups, nothing is more impressive than a privately chartered ship. By chartering the entire ship, you "own" the ship! Virtually every aspect of the cruise can be customized for your group. You can decide what dishes will be offered on the menu, and which shore excursions will be available. Choreographed stage shows can be customized for the company, or the ship can be renamed in the company's honor. It's like having your own floating resort. You can charter the entire ship for exclusive use by your organization. Ship capacities range from 50 to 4300 passengers.

Shipboard Activities:
A cruise includes a wide variety of activities and events for attendees and their guests during their free time. There are so many choices, it's impossible to be bored. Below you will find some of the actives available onboard a variety of ships:
• Calypso music poolside
• Pool games
• Shore excursion briefings and shopping talks
• Mini Golf
• Rock Climbing Walls
• Ice Skating rinks
• Internet Center
• Massage and Spa Facilities
• Beauty treatments in the beauty salon
• Jogging or walking on the ship's track
• Fitness centers -featuring lifecycle aerobic trainers, Cycling machines, rowing and weight machines.
• Backgammon tournaments, cards and games
• Wine tasting (nominal charge)
• A library of best sellers
• Movies
• Dance classes
• Ice carving demonstration by the pool - an amazing exhibition
• Casino gaming instruction: Blackjack, Roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, etc.
• Basketball
• Volleyball
• Ping Pong
• Bingo
• Saunas and whirlpools
• Shipboard Shopping Promenades

FAQ About Corporate & Incentive Cruising:

What is included in my cruise price?
All meals, complimentary 24-hour room service, nightly entertainment, full casino, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, exciting itineraries and ports of call, a world of shipboard activities, meeting rooms with cutting-edge audio/visual equipment, and, of course, impeccable service are all included.

Who do I call to get a quote for a Corporate or Incentive Group?
Our toll free number is 888-882-5793. We can help you plan your corporate cruise.

While onboard, who do I talk to if I need assistance?
All cruise ships have a dedicated Meeting Service Coordinator. They're onboard and with you every step of the way, offering their assistance through all stages of your meeting - it's a complimentary service.

Are there meeting facilities onboard?
Yes. All ships have meeting facilities aboard. Seating capacities vary depending on ship and configuration. Meeting space is complimentary and based on availability.

Is audio/video equipment available and is there a fee for usage?
Standard audio/video equipment is available free of charge (based on availability). Standard audio/video equipment such as overhead projectors, slide projectors, screens, TVs, VCRs, flipcharts, laser pointers, microphones, podiums and more are standard on all ships. LCD projectors are available on many of the newer vessels. Advanced audio/video equipment may be rented for a nominal charge.

Is there Internet access onboard?
All ships have Internet cafés where you can gain access to the Internet and e-mail. Many of the newer ships have Wi-Fi wireless internet, a service that provides guest 24-hour, unlimited access to the Internet from the privacy of your own stateroom or suite. Additional fees apply for Wireless Internet access.

To book an Incentive/Corporate Cruise:
CruiseOne is part of World Travel Holdings (WTH), the nation’s largest cruise retailer. Therefore, our buying power is second to none. Our corporate meeting planners have strong negotiating skills, and are able to obtain and present your company with exclusive offers. The purchasing power produced by our high volume of sales will provide your company with exceptional values and savings that can only be offered by an incentive travel company with the experience and knowledge that we hold.

You can reach us at 888-882-5793 or send us an email at kfreer@cruiseone.com.

CruiseOne is the only thing you’ll need to plan your next cruise; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Kathy & Eric Freer, your Independent Cruise Specialists at (321) 735-0202 or toll free at (888)882-5793, or via the web at www.GetLostAtSea.com for more information.

Top 10 Reasons To Cruise

1. Value: Nothing beats a cruise for incredible vacation savings – you'll visit multiple destinations and so much is included, from dining to entertainment. You just might up spending all of your vacations on a cruise!

2. Convenience: Set sail from 21 close-to-home U.S. ports, and no matter how many places you visit, you'll only unpack once.

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 formal – 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, and we will help you 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.

Cruising Is The Best Value For Your Vacation Dollar

A cruise offers unmatched variety, convenience, and fun. Plus, it's more affordable than many land-based vacations. Cruises enable you to visit multiple locations for one low price, without the hassle of coordinating travel details. Your vacation begins the moment you step onboard. And now, many cruises are just a short drive or flight away.

What's Included:

Stateroom or suite accommodations
Ocean transportation
Gourmet dining
Supervised kids' programs
Vegas- or Broadway-style shows
Entry to nightclubs, piano bars, and more
Activities like yoga & basketball
Gym, pool & hot tubs
Non-commissionable fares & taxes

What's Not Included:

Gratuities
Spa treatments
Alcoholic beverages
Casino gambling
Shopping
Organized tours & activities onshore
Babysitting
Nominal fees at some restaurants

CruiseOne is the only thing you’ll need to plan your next cruise; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Kathy & Eric Freer, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at (321) 735-0202 or toll free at (888)882-5793, or via the web at www.GetLostAtSea.com for more information.

Group Cruising

Ever wonder what happened to your high school or college graduation class? Your buddies from the military? Extended family in far-flung places that you haven’t seen in years? Wouldn’t it be great to get together again? A cruise provides many opportunities to reconnect with people who mean the most to you. There is no better place to share this event than on a cruise ship. Whether your group is large or small, we can make your gathering special and memorable.

Group or reunion cruises include Anniversaries, Birthdays, Religious Groups, Clubs, Corporations, Choirs and Bands, Fraternal Organizations, Neighborhoods, Professional Groups, Sororities and Fraternities, Sports Teams, Unions and Weddings.

Nothing compares to the ease and value of a group cruise. One price covers your meals, shipboard activities, entertainment and much more! Experience stress-free days without cell phones, traffic jams, or rushed lunch hours. Visit several destinations without having to pack and unpack. Best of all, your experienced Cruise Specialist will assist in planning your cruise at no extra cost! It is our job to make your cruise a huge success!

A cruise has something for everyone … children’s programs, the spa, fine dining, nearly unlimited activities, or perhaps just some needed relaxation.

Call us today to see just how much we can do for you. As part of the nation’s largest cruise travel company, our buying power can get you the sailing dates, cabin selection and preferred rates you deserve!

Ask us how you can cruise for FREE! When you organize a group with as few as 15 people, you can cruise for free as the group leader!

CruiseOne is the only thing you’ll need to plan your next group cruise; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Kathy & Eric Freer, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at (321) 735-0202 or toll free at (888)882-5793, or via the web at www.GetLostAtSea.com for more information.

Honeymoon Cruise Registry Sets Sail

While honeymoon cruises have always been a good idea, planning and paying for them often represented challenges for the new bride and groom. With so many other things to worry about, wouldn’t it be great if there was a single source to plan a romantic honeymoon cruise getaway. Now there is! And even better, an exclusive new online honeymoon registry allows family and friends to help make this dream vacation possible. While silver chafing dishes and wine decanters gather dust, a honeymoon cruise creates life long memories.

The experts at CruiseOne can help the future bride and groom select a honeymoon cruise that’s just right for their budget, time and lifestyle considerations. Once the lucky couple is registered, family and friends can log on to www.honeymoonships.com, view the cruise selected and contribute toward this incredible honeymoon vacation.

Voyage Credits are easily processed in convenient $25 increments, charged to a major credit card and applied to the honeymoon couple's cruise reservation account at CruiseOne. Purchasers will receive an e-mail confirmation of the credit amount selected.

Shortly before the "Big Day", the couple will receive a beautiful souvenir photo album compliments of CruiseOne displaying the name of all family and friends who helped make this dream come true. The album can be displayed, as appropriate, on the gift table at the reception.

For more information or to register your honeymoon, contact Kathy & Eric Freer at 321-735-0202 or toll-free 888-882-5793, or visit www.cruiseone.com/kfreer.

About CruiseOne
With more than 500 locations coast to coast, CruiseOne prides itself on providing attention to detail and expert advice to every customer. Each independently owned and operated business combines the latest technology and old-fashioned customer service. The automated best fare search program enables Cruise Specialists to identify excellent values on all major cruise lines. CruiseOne Specialists are experts in both group and individual cruise sailings. Programs ranging from family reunions at sea and honeymoon cruises to corporate meetings, incentives and ship charters are handled courteously and professionally. In operation since 1992 CruiseOne has received numerous awards and a top-ranking status from all major cruise lines. CruiseOne is part of World Travel Holdings, one of the nation’s largest online and offline leisure travel companies

Cruise With Us To Alaska - June 18, 2011!

Freer & Associates with CruiseOne is hosting a group for an Alaska Cruise and Tour. Join us on this incredible journey!



We will be sailing on Princess Cruises Coral Princess. The ship leaves Saturday, June 18, 2011, from Vancouver. The itinerary is as follows:



Cruise Portion
June 18, 2011 - Depart Pier in Vancouver at 4:30pm
June 19, 2011 - At Sea
June 20, 2011 - Ketchikan from 6:30am - 2:00pm
June 21, 2011 - Juneau from 8:00am - 9:00pm
June 22, 2011 - Skagway from 7:00am - 8:30pm
June 23, 2011 - Glacier Bay from 6:00am - 3:00pm
June 24, 2011 - College Fjord from 5:30pm - 8:30pm
June 25, 2011 - Arrive at Pier in Whittier



Tour Portion
June 25, 2011 - Rail: Denali Express to Denali, to Denali Princess Wilderness lodge. Evening at leisure
June 26, 2011 - Natural History Tour departs between 7:00-8:30am. Coach to Rail Depot. Rail from Denali to McKinley. Coach to Rail Depot, then to lodge. Evening at leisure and staying at the McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge.
June 27, 2011 - Day at Leisure
June 28, 2011 - Coach, McKinley to Anchorage Airport



We have group rates, and each cabin will receive a $50.00 on board credit and chocolate covered strawberries in the cabin.

Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to see some of the greatest sights at an incredible value. There is no better way to see Alaska than a cruise and a tour!

Outside staterooms start at just $2,373 per person for the cruise and cruise tour portion. Government fees, taxes and port charges are additional.

Call today to reserve your space in this group! We will be hosting the group, helping to arrange shore excursions, dining, and any other needs that come along. This is a great trip for your 2011 summer vacation.

Call us at 321-735-0202 or toll free at 888-882-5793 for details. Visit us online at www.GetLostAtSea.com.

Spending the Holidays at Sea

So, have you thought about what you are doing for the holidays this year? How about a holiday cruise! Although you won’t have a white Christmas on a cruise you will find plenty of good cheer. It’s hard not to get in the holiday spirit when twinkling lights, decorated trees, poinsettias and mistletoe surround you. Carolers stroll the decks singing your favorite holiday songs while kids are busy making ornaments and decorating sugar cookies. There's even a ceremonial tree lighting and plenty of champagne toasts.

All cruise ships get into the holiday spirit but the bigger the ship, the bigger the festivities. So what kind of celebration is right for your you? Here’s a little advice on what you need to know about cruising over Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and New Years:

• Of the four holidays, Christmas is the biggest ordeal.

• Holiday cruises generally offer religious services. Typically, a rabbi, minister and priest sail aboard holiday cruises and hold Catholic, Jewish, Protestant and interdenominational services in the ship's chapel or in a quiet public room.

• All cruise lines decorate for the holidays to some extent, with the larger lines showing more of the holiday spirit. Most ships display at least one Christmas tree decorated from head to toe, a menorah is displayed and lighted each day during the eight-day celebration, and poinsettias, wreathes, mistletoe, and holly are sprinkled about. Decorations generally go up around Thanksgiving and stay up until the New Year.

• The larger family-friendly ships have plenty of holiday activities for the whole family including holiday-themed arts and crafts, caroling by the crew, an appearance by Santa, and sometimes elves too. But Christmas oriented activities are usually kept to Christmas Eve and Christmas Day so that non-celebrating passengers do not get overwhelmed. On New Year's Eve, a ship-wide countdown is to be expected, as is a champagne toast.

• There is no shortage of food during the holiday celebrations. Naturally, you can expect the traditional turkey and trimmings on Thanksgiving, plus lots of dishes made out of pumpkin. At Menorah lighting services during Hanukkah, you'll likely be offered Kosher wine and challah, while for Christmas look for roast turkey or goose, gingerbread everything, mincemeat pies, chocolate Yule logs, and, of course, holiday cookies.

• The crew gets into the holiday spirit with waiters in Santa hats and cruise staff dressing up like elves, Baby New Year, and other holiday characters.

• To keep up with the loads of holiday activities and full house during the holidays, many lines bring in extra staff to cope.

Planning your holiday cruise just got easier with CruiseOne; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Kathy and Eric Freer, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at 321-735-0202 or toll free at 888-882-5793, or via the web at www.GetLostAtSea.com for more information.

River Cruising

Tired of the same old vacation? Looking for something new and exciting? When you think Europe, you think “been there, done that!” Although you may have sailed the eastern and western Mediterranean, the British Isles and Northern Europe, you haven’t seen anything yet. In Europe, most cruise ships stick to the same old coastal routes showcasing amazing cities like Edinburgh, Istanbul and Seville, but much of Europe’s charm lies in its interior cities.



Although many of Europe’s rivers and canals are too small for most cruise ships, they are not too small for a fleet of specially designed river ships and barges. River and canal voyages are becoming an increasingly popular option amongst travelers who enjoy cruising but want to see more of the country. But river cruising is quite different than typical cruising. For one, river cruise ships rarely hold more than 200-plus passengers, giving the ships a smaller feel. Onboard amenities are limited in comparison to the larger ships, although you will find luxurious staterooms onboard most river ships and some include balconies. Entertainment onboard is limited. These ships carry no casinos and tend to offer nightly entertainment such as a piano player or a local entertainer. Newer ships are starting to add more amenities in the way of fitness centers, swimming pools and Internet access. One big difference between river cruising and ocean cruising is that river cruises typically include shore excursions in the overall cruise fare. Itineraries may incorporate major cities, but your experience will focus more on smaller towns and villages. Days at sea are rare and waterways are much calmer than those on ocean-based trips.

In addition to Europe, river cruises are available in Russia, China and Egypt. Most river and canal ships operate seasonally, during spring, summer and fall months with a break during the winter, although some Asian operators will go year-round. An exception is the Christmas season in Europe, where several river cruise operators offer voyages that stop in towns and cities with Christmas markets.



There are a number of river cruise lines offering a variety of itineraries including Uniworld River Cruises, Viking River Cruises, Peter Deilmann River Cruises and Amadeus Waterways. Each line is different and unique in their own way.

So if you want to spend more time exploring the destination rather than getting to it, a river cruise is just for you. CruiseOne offers a variety of river cruises at exceptional prices along with excellent personal service. Contact Kathy and Eric Freer, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at 321-735-0202 or toll free at 888-882-5793 or via the web at www.GetLostAtSea.com for more information.

Cruises for Families

Cruises are a convenient way for families to vacation. If you have got kids, you will agree that preserving your sanity is a priority, and a cruise vacation fits the bill. They are easy, safe, fun for the kids and relaxing for Mom and Dad. Cruise lines have been going to great lengths to please parents and kids alike, as families become an ever larger and more influential segment of the cruising public. In fact, since 2000, Royal Caribbean, among the most family friendly lines, has seen a more than 50% increase in the number of families cruising with kids under the age of 3. Same story with Carnival, which now carries 300% more children 17 and under than it did in 1995. During school holidays, there can be so many kids on board that playrooms get jam-packed and you will have to wait in line to sign in. Toddlers and teen are taken care of too: Royal Caribbean, for instance, has daily play groups for parents and toddlers (6 months – 3 years), while elaborate teen facilities are all the rage across the industry.

The megaships cater most to families and attract the largest numbers of them, with playrooms, video arcades, and complimentary supervised activities usually provided for children ages 2 or 3 to 17 (generally, young children must be potty-trained to participate), and programs broken down into several age categories. Some lines set a minimum age for children to sail aboard (usually 6 – 12 months), but Disney provides a supervised nursery for ages 3 months and up.

Disney has the most family friendly ships at sea today, followed by Royal Caribbean, whose ships especially the Freedom, Voyager and Radiance class vessels) have huge play areas. The Carnival ships do a pretty good job too (especially the Conquest class), as do the Norwegian, Princess and Celebrity megaships. Even lines traditionally geared towards the older crowd are getting in on the kid craze. Holland America renovated all of its ships kids' facilities over the past few years and the kids’ facility and programs on Cunard’s QM2 are phenomenal.

Babysitting: After the complimentary daylong roster of supervised activities wraps up between about 7:00 – 10:00pm, most mainstream lines provide slumber-party style group babysitting in the playroom. Services are usually from about 10:00pm until 1:00 – 3:00 am and are for ages 3 to 12, costing about $4.00 - $6.00 per hour per child. Some lines do accommodate younger kids, with toys, cribs and nap areas geared to infants and toddlers. Private in-cabin babysitting by a crewmember is also provided by Celebrity, Royal Caribbean and most high-end lines at a steeper $8.00 - $10.00 per hour.

Family friendly cabins: If your travel budget is tight, a family of four can share a cabin and get a good deal in return for all that togetherness: The rates for third and fourth persons sharing a cabin with two full fare (or even heavily discounted) passengers are usually about half of the lowest regular rates. Norwegian Cruise Line allows children 1 and under to sail free with two full fare passengers (though you must pay port charges and government taxes for the kids and MSC Cruises often offers a “kids sail free” promotion for the under 17 set of occupying the same cabin as two parents or adults. Crystal has offered free passage for all children 11 and under for summer sailings in Alaska. Note: Because prices are based on double adult occupancy of cabins, single parents sailing with children usually have to pay adult prices for their kids, though deals for single parents are available every once in a while.

As for how you will all fit, think bunk style third and fourth berths that fold out of the walls just above the regular beds. A few lines such as Carnival and NCL will even accommodate a fifth person on a rollaway bed on certain ships, if space permits, and a baby crib can be brought in if requested in advance. There are no two ways about it though: A standard cabin with four people in it will be cramped, and with one bathroom … well you can imagine. However, when you consider how little time you will spend in the cabin, it’s doable, and many families do take this option. The line that offers the best digs for families is definitely Disney, where the majority of cabins aboard Magic and Wonder boast two bathrooms (one with a bathtub), a mini-fridge, and a sitting area with a sofa bed. (While mini-fridges or minibars are fairly standard these days, tubs are a rarity unless you are splurging on a suite.) The cabins are almost as big as most ships’ mini-suites and comfortably sleep families of three or four, but of course, Disney’s rates are generally higher than those of their mainstream competitors. The ships’ bona fide suites accommodate families of five to seven.

In general, whatever line you choose, families who can afford it should consider booking a suite or a junior suite. Many have a pullout couch in the living room (or better yet, two separate bedrooms) and can accommodate up to three or four children. If you have older kids, it may just be cheaper to book connecting cabins – two separate standard cabins with interconnecting doors. Almost every ship has connecting cabins with the exception of the smallest ships and a small handful of midsize vessels and megaships.

Family Cruising Tips

Here are some suggestions for better sailing and smoother seas on your family cruise:

• Reserve a crib. If you would like a crib brought into your cabin, request one when booking your cruise.
• Bring baby food and diapers. If your infant is still on jar food, you will have to bring your own. You can store milk and snacks in your cabins mini-fridge / minibar, which is standard on most new ships. (Ships more than 5 or 10 years old may provide them only in suites). If yours is prestocked with beer and peanuts, you can ask your steward to clear it out. Royal Caribbean offers a program where you can pre-order Huggies brand diapers, wipes and cream, and Gerber organic baby food to be delivered right to the stateroom. That means you don’t have to pack the gear!
• Keep a tote with you on embarkation day. After boarding a big ship, it may take a few hours before your luggage gets delivered to your cabin, so be sure to hand carry a tote filled with whatever you will need for the afternoon: diapers, baby food, change of clothes, bathing suits and so on.
• Pack some basic first-aid supplies, and even a thermometer. Cruise lines have limited supplies of these items, and charge for them too. If an accident should happen on board, virtually every ship (except for the smallest ones) has its own infirmary staffed by doctors or nurses. Keep in mind that first aid can usually be summoned more readily aboard ship than in port.
• Warn younger children about the danger of falling overboard and make sure they know not to play on the railings.
• Make sure your kids know their cabin number and what deck it is on. The endless corridors and doors on the megaships often look exactly alike, though some are color coded.
• Prepare kids for TV letdown. Though many ships today receive satellite TV programming, you won’t get the range of options you have at home.

CruiseOne is the only thing you’ll need to plan your next family cruise vacation; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Kathy & Eric Freer, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at (321) 735-0202 or toll free at (888)882-5793, or via the web at www.GetLostAtSea.com for more information.


Resource: Frommer's Cruises & Ports of Call 2010

The CruiseOne Difference

CruiseOne prides itself on providing attention to detail and expert advice to every customer. Each CruiseOne Franchise and Cruise Specialist offer travelers access to the latest technology with old-fashioned customer service.

Expert Advice – We work hard to find the cruise that best suits your needs. We take the time to learn your personal preferences like ship size (small to mega), dining choices (fixed or flexible), onboard dress codes (formal or casual) and onboard style (active or passive). Armed with this criteria, we are able to match you with the best cruise line and ship to fit your needs and lifestyle.

Attention to Detail – Every CruiseOne Cruise Specialist takes pride in the service they provide. Whether you choose a short getaway or an around-the-world voyage, your vacation is important to us. We assist with all aspects of your trip – air travel, transfers, insurance, shore excursions and any special celebrations or arrangements. Our approach ensures your cruise vacation is simply unforgettable.

Innovative Internet Technology – CruiseOne boasts the latest technology to identify which departures and ships offer the best value. Plus, our prices are always the same or better than dealing directly with a cruise line.

Best Fare Search Program – Our automated program not only searches our extensive database for the best rates, but also searches for regional, past passenger, senior or group rates for which you may qualify.

Buying Power – CruiseOne is part of World Travel Holdings (WTH), one of the nation’s largest travel retailers. This means we have a broader reach and better pricing than you can get on your own. Each year, WTH sends millions of clients around the world to warm up, cool off, explore new cultures or just relax.

Relationships With All Major Cruise Lines – We represent all major cruise lines and conduct comparative shopping between each line. Our extensive knowledge of the industry allows us to make unbiased recommendations. We have received numerous awards and a top ranking status by virtually every cruise line. And, we are members of the prestigious Cruise Line International Association (CLIA).

Group Specialists – We are experts in all types of group cruises, ranging from family reunions to corporate meetings, from weddings to incentive groups, and from eight cabins to full ship charters.

Some people mistakenly think that using a cruise agent will increase the cost of their trip. In truth, we save you time and money. For valuable advice, personal service and a long-term relationship, regardless of which cruise line you prefer, chose CruiseOne. After all, it is your vacation and your money … so trust the professionals!

CruiseOne is the only thing you’ll need to plan your next cruise vacation; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Kathy & Eric Freer, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at (321) 735-0202 or toll free at (888)882-5793, or via the web at www.GetLostAtSea.com for more information.