Rising fuel duty is splitting the country into the "drives and the drive-nots", according to the AA.
The world’s coolest cruise ships
Seabourn Quest
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Who says cruises are only for families and the blue-rinse set? The latest ships are stuffed with chic bars, trendy restaurants and sumptuous spas that would put some of the most luxurious hotels to shame.
Launched in June, Seabourn Quest is the latest of three virtually identical sister ships that each carry up to 450 passengers. Guests can start the day with a yoga class, chill in the outdoor relaxation area of the spa, flop out on deck with a free Massage Moments mini rub-down or consult a personal shopper to find out the best boutiques in port. Beach seafood barbecues and so-called caviar-in-the-surf events, plus an onboard watersports marina with water-skiing, kayaking and pedal boats, make it an ideal ship for the exotic destinations that are inaccessible to most of the bigger ships.
Find out more about this cool cruise
9Comments
29/09/2011 10:59
Red Frank does not know from experience despite being on cruise ships for 8 years. Most of the ships featured here are actually all inclusive so drinks are also free - some may even include the excursions. I am fairly new to cruising, only started this type of holiday in 2007, but have cruised with Royal Caribbean, Cunard, Princess, Celebrity, Silverseas & African Safari Club. We have been pleasantly surprised that even though you may be "trapped" with 2,500 fellow cruisers, there is always space for you to chill. We've never had a problem finding seats in the theatre, been able to get a table each evening when we want with anytime dining and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Cruising is great as you are touring around, getting a taste of lots of different locations, but taking your hotel with you. You get what you pay for - the more you pay, (which for these luxury cruise ships will be a lot), the more you get. I realise that cruising is not for everyone, but don't knock it til you try it. I can't comment on the gym or the pool as I have not used these, but I can recommend the food, the spa treatments, the ambiance and relaxation you get from cruising. The other comment I would make is that with Silverseas their largest ship only takes 550 passengers and I think Seabourne are also a small cruise ship company. I look forward to reading other comments from fellow cruisers, although I'm sure there will also be many who will contradict what I have to say.
29/09/2011 09:38
Funny how they always show the ships when no-one is aboard.......the reality on all these vessels is that they are overcrowded and in most cases it is very difficult to find a seat in a show, free time in the Gym or a square meter of water to swim in in the pool. The only place to find any peace is in your cabin. So no, its not as good as it looks, and of course, make sure you bring your wallet, since the free food is more than wiped out by the high prices and hard sell of everything else on board. And YES I do know from experience after 25 yrs in the merchant marine, 8 of which were on cruise ships. Now thankfully on cargo ships with a crew of only 12.
29/09/2011 12:12
29/09/2011 12:26
29/09/2011 11:14
29/09/2011 11:01
I'm pretty ignorant on all things maritime (I don't like to go to sea in anything smaller than the Isle of Wight) but shouldn't the article on the Clippers have said ' How to get their SPINAKER up' and NOT 'How to get their SPANKER up' ?! Still the sea air can have that effect on me too....
29/09/2011 13:14
Sorry to hear that frank. With cruises you really do get what you pay for!! i have been on SeadDream Yatch Club 4 times in the last two years and it is an amazing holiday- their return custom rate is 86% or there abouts!
Everything is included and the staff cant do enough to help. Also, with nearly one staff member to each passenger you feel like royalty!
Granted, its not cheap, but as a result you always get a sunbed, plenty of pool space and never ever have to wait at the bar...mainly because the staff will bring you a fresh cold drink before you even realise you need a new one!!
29/09/2011 13:15
29/09/2011 09:59
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