I’ve never loved the idea of a cruise for all the reasons you mention. I wonder if the company values matter. For instance, Viking River Cruises in Europe appear to be smaller in scale and the excursions look interesting! Thanks for this info. If we ever decide to go on one I’ll know how to focus my research!
Hi Jen, I suspect that is a big piece of it. I've looked at Viking River cruises - and always liked the idea. Also in the U.S., American Cruises has smaller and more intimate cruises like on the Mississippi River.
I, too, have never been a fan of cruises for similar reasons. My dad took a lot of cruises, and served as a "dance host" on cruises when he retired from teaching. While he was in hospice last year, I would take out his photo albums (many of them of cruises) and have him tell me about specific photos. Even in times of health challenges, reliving those cruises as he told me about the photos, uplifted his spirits. Hope Jen and Janice, you have some photos to trigger at some good memories from a few of the cruises that might have been less than ideal. 😀
There are tours suited to the solo/female/older travellers these days that are small, tailored and specific. The idea of 'holidaying' with 3000 others would be my worst nightmare. I think you were brave to do it either now or in the past.
Very informative, Janice! I think the number of people had a LOT to do with the way you felt. There is a big difference between 900 and 3,000! Makes you feel like one of a herd. Although my mother, at 89, went with family to Alaska on Princess line and they had a fabulous time. Mama said the staff called her, "my lady" and she loved the attention. But that was 12 years ago. There are no doubt a LOT of variables. Thanks for the report!
What a shame this experience was disappointing! I’ve never done a cruise, for many of the issues you’ve illustrated. I definitely want to see Alaska though!
So interesting. I thought cruises were losing their appeal, but it sounds like a still popular choice. What you described would never be my cup of tea. Thanks for reporting.
I’ve never loved the idea of a cruise for all the reasons you mention. I wonder if the company values matter. For instance, Viking River Cruises in Europe appear to be smaller in scale and the excursions look interesting! Thanks for this info. If we ever decide to go on one I’ll know how to focus my research!
Hi Jen, I suspect that is a big piece of it. I've looked at Viking River cruises - and always liked the idea. Also in the U.S., American Cruises has smaller and more intimate cruises like on the Mississippi River.
I, too, have never been a fan of cruises for similar reasons. My dad took a lot of cruises, and served as a "dance host" on cruises when he retired from teaching. While he was in hospice last year, I would take out his photo albums (many of them of cruises) and have him tell me about specific photos. Even in times of health challenges, reliving those cruises as he told me about the photos, uplifted his spirits. Hope Jen and Janice, you have some photos to trigger at some good memories from a few of the cruises that might have been less than ideal. 😀
There are tours suited to the solo/female/older travellers these days that are small, tailored and specific. The idea of 'holidaying' with 3000 others would be my worst nightmare. I think you were brave to do it either now or in the past.
Hi Prue, I think that would be a much better idea.
Very informative, Janice! I think the number of people had a LOT to do with the way you felt. There is a big difference between 900 and 3,000! Makes you feel like one of a herd. Although my mother, at 89, went with family to Alaska on Princess line and they had a fabulous time. Mama said the staff called her, "my lady" and she loved the attention. But that was 12 years ago. There are no doubt a LOT of variables. Thanks for the report!
Hi Sharron, I think you're right - that and the focus on making money during the shore tours.
What a shame this experience was disappointing! I’ve never done a cruise, for many of the issues you’ve illustrated. I definitely want to see Alaska though!
Hi Kristi, Alaska is an amazing place, but don't wait too long. It seemed like the glaciers aren't aging so well.
Great information. I’m going on my first cruise next May for my sons senior trip. I’m hoping it’s stress free.
So interesting. I thought cruises were losing their appeal, but it sounds like a still popular choice. What you described would never be my cup of tea. Thanks for reporting.
Hi Jill, They do seem to be a popular choice, but I, for one, was disappointed - too many people.