Posts Tagged ‘cruising-sailing articles’
Asia Cruises: A Journey in the Exotic World
Asia Cruises: Lasting Impressions of Culture and Tradition
An Asia cruise is a voyage of discovery, an experience of cultural extravaganza of Asian civilizations. Asia is biggest continent with the lengthiest coastline and the highest mountains of the world, the Himalayas. To explore the true majesty of its magnificent past, to experience the magnanimity of its religion and its people, embark on an Asia cruise. You will never ever forget the experience.
The Asia cruise takes you to the opulence of Singapore & Hong Kong, definitely worth a look. The jungle temple in Thailand, the Konark temple of India, or the peaceful eyes of Buddha in Vietnam, redefine faith and religion of the believers and non-believers alike.
The graceful dance forms of India, the Japanese tea ceremony or the Chinese theatre, all have enormous cultural significance that are part and parcel of the region’s tradition. You become a mute spectator of such enormous cultural and traditional fervor entwined in every walk of life, so similar to each other yet very distinct in its own right.
The Asia cruise cruises along the Malaysian, Vietnamese and the Thai seas. Splurge yourselves with pretty gifts from the fabulous shopping arcades of Singapore, Dubai and Hong Kong. Be a part of a unique shopping experience with unbelievable discounts and promotional offers. Come to the Indian Hollywood, Bollywood, know what wholesome entertain can be by watching a Hindi film.
Let your Asia cruise be a medium to explore the enchanting cultures and original landscapes with their own unique fervor and flavor. You can go on a Far East & south pacific cruise, a South East Asia cruise or an Asia & Middle East cruise. Every cruise has its own tale to tell its own mystery to unfold.
After you have chosen the Asia cruise, you can expect quiet elegance and no over the top gimmicks. You can do your own thing at you own pace as if you are on a private villa. If you like to mind your own business you can jog a while, swim a leisurely lap or read a nice novel. You can take part in some activity join exercise classes get a soothing massage or enjoy a sauna. Some cruises even offer helicopter sightseeing, whitewater rafting, and nature walks etc.
You can find spas, health clubs and even wedding chapels at your cruise ship. Special children play areas or centers are found with lots of games and entertainment.
The cruise people often invite guest speaker to share their anecdotes mostly about the region you are sailing giving you interesting insights. Most of the cruises provide excellent service, every guest gets personalized attention. The dedicated and observant staff looks after you well. You can find any information you require from the staff like where to find souvenirs, where to shop of local handicrafts or where to find nice restaurants.
The Asia cruises have special entertainment areas that offer real entertainment from special theme events, hilarious comedies, and melodious musicals to exquisite dance performances that leave you spell bound.
And spellbound and mesmerized you will be when your Asia cruise journey ends. Surely and truly, you will be a transformed person if you take all the experiences to your heart.
Looking for information about cruises? Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com ‘What Cruises’ is published by Colin Hartness – An excellent resource for Cruises! Check out more cruise articles at: http://www.whatcruises.com/archive
High-School Reunion Time? Host Yours on a Yacht!
Sometimes it can be difficult to round up the old gang from high school; everyone is busy, someone in their family either can’t or won’t go, or people will think, “Oh, those things are so boring.”
Well, if you or someone you know is in charge of coordinating your reunion for the “Class of —-,” you’ll definitely get better results from the get-go if you decide to plan the reunion aboard a luxury yacht, offering your former classmates a real chance to unwind while they reminisce about the “old days” with you and your friends.
Most yacht clubs offer more than adequate dining and banquet rooms for a special occasion like this. One thing to keep in mind in advance, though: Make your reservations early, because this concept is quickly catching on! And though yacht clubs are always great choices for reunions of that size, the ocean, or sailing yachts will likely appeal to even the stodgiest of your past classmates. There’s just something about floating along in luxury on the world’s oceans that people just can’t resist. Add a good party with lots of good food, service, and great accommodations, and you’ll have one rockin’, rollin’ ship!
Make sure, also, that the yacht is fully licensed to provide a complete beverage service, including host bar capabilities. Other attractions to look for are a good-sized pool (of course!) table linens (in your choice of colors), a good ballroom or dance floor, floral and other decorating arrangements, billiard rooms, adjustable lighting, and even a fireplace! The idea is to make everyone feel both “at home” and “on vacation” at the same time ? something that can only be accomplished in few places, such as an ocean yacht!
And, because we’re such a “business society” these days, many of your old classmates may need office facilities, such as a fax or photocopy machine, comfortable desks, chairs, and lamps, and even a “board room” for those who may prefer to mix business with pleasure more than others.
Of course pricing is always a factor, and for a luxury yacht, you can expect the numbers to be around $2,200 per person (for sailings to the Caribbean), up to $10,718 per person for an Owner’s Suite (for Mediterranean yachting). However, you can bring those prices down considerably if you charter a yacht on a per diem basis. Most travel agencies can handle all the details for you.
David Dunlap is the owner and founder of Only For Yachts, an online resource for everything related to yachts. Visit http://onlyforyachts.com to get information on yacht charters, yachts for sale and also sign up for the free yachting newsletter.
Family Reunion Cruises – Something Everyone Can Live With
The mere thought of getting together for a family reunion can strike terror into even the most stalwart of human beings. Don’t get me wrong. We love our families — but usually we prefer to do that loving from afar — often several states afar! Even so, there is something inexplicably appealing about getting together with our relatives every once in a while for a reunion.
When that urge strikes (and believe me, it will strike), you’ve got to be prepared with a plan of action. If you mention the idea of a “family reunion” to your family members without a plan, you’ll most likely end up with mayhem on your hands. The next thing you know you’ll have relatives camping out on every square inch of your floor, piling your sink sky high with dirty dishes, and making executive decisions with your remote control. In addition, you’ll become far too acquainted with the health problems and bodily functions of some of your senior relatives (Who knew that toenail fungus was so prevalent?).
So, what’s the plan of action? You’ve got to head off those pesky relatives at the pass and make sure they never plan that family reunion at your house. What’s the alternative? You’ve got to plan your family reunion on a cruise ship!
Cruise ships are the perfect setting for a family reunion. This is neutral territory, so people don’t feel they are imposing on others. It levels the playing field and takes away the control that can sometimes come into play when reunions are held on a family member’s “turf.” Plus, the best part is the cruise line does all the work — the cleaning, the cooking, and the entertaining. All your family members have to do is relax and enjoy their time together. Plus, lest we forget to mention one of the most important factors — the variety of activities onboard the ship and at the various ports of call is a perfect fit for groups who want to do some of their activities together and some separately. In other words, you’re not trapped in “family reunion” bedlam the entire time. You can take a breather at one of the many bars or lounges onboard your ship, catch a current movie in the ship’s theater, put on your dancin’ shoes for the disco, try your luck at the casino, or simply hide out in your stateroom and order complimentary room service.
If your family group has children, traditional reunions can be horrible experiences for kids! You know what I’m talking about — the endless “remember when” discussions they overhear about things they’re too young to understand, the frequent rebukes for running through the house making too much noise, and the obligatory playing with the dreadful cousins. Yikes! What kid would look forward to that? But, tell a kid they’re going on a cruise ship with a miniature golf course, a pool, a sports court, an ice rink, and a really cool kid’s activity program, and they won’t grumble about having to endure a few hours of interaction with the relatives.
Most cruise lines offer attractive rates for groups — and some offer special packages specifically for family reunions. With their all-inclusive approach (meals and entertainment are included) and hassle-free planning, booking your family reunion aboard a cruise ship is the only way to go.
Because there are so many cruise ships in the water these days, it can take a huge amount of research to determine which ship and itinerary would be the best match for your family’s reunion. So, before you plunk down the dough for a family reunion cruise, make sure you’ve consulted with an experienced travel agent — preferably one who specializes in group cruises. The service is complimentary (agents receive their commission from the cruise line) and you’ll save yourself a lot of time and hassle.
Tracey Amino is the CEO of Sapphire Cruises, originators of the Home Cruise Party for family reunions and groups. Be sure to visit her site at: Sapphire Cruises
Luxury Cruises On The Mediterranean
A classic Mediterranean cruise visits major port cities located on the northern shores of the Mediterranean Sea in the countries of Spain, France, Italy, Monaco, Greece and Turkey and the islands of Malta, Crete and Sicily. Some cruises also include stops in Egypt. The Mediterranean cruise season is April to November when the weather is generally sunny and mild. Many cruise lines sail the Mediterranean and while there is most likely a cruise that appeals to any style and budget, we’ll focus on luxury cruises here.
Radisson Seven Seas is a luxury carrier in the small cruise line category. As such, a small number of passengers (only 198 to 700 based on individual ship capacity) are treated to personal service by a cruise line that has been selected by Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure to be the “World’s Best Small Cruise Line”. Radisson Seven Seas appeals to the sophisticated traveler. Based upon service, quality dining, upscale accommodations, and service, Radisson Seven Seas has earned a six-star rating. The cruise line’s special accommodations include two 700 passenger all-balcony suites ships, Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner, and one 490 passenger all-suites ship, Seven Seas Navigator. The Radisson Diamond is another unique ship due to its twin hull design. The Radisson Diamond carries 350 guests in luxury.
The Seven Seas Voyager and the Radisson Diamond routinely cruise the Mediterranean Sea, departing from or terminating at ports such as Rome, Venice, Athens, Monte Carlo, Barcelona, and Istanbul normally for a 7-night cruise. These cruises stop at some of the most famous European cities that occur between the start and end points such as Florence, Italy; Marseilles, France; St. Tropez, France; Dubrovnik, Croatia; the island of Sicily; and others.
Crystal Cruises is another award-winning six-star cruise line. A reader’s poll by Travel + Leisure magazine named Crystal “World’s Best” in cruise line service. Conde Nast Traveler magazine has awarded Crystal “Best Large-Ship Cruise Line” while Travel + Leisure called Crystal the “World’s Best Large – Ship Cruise Line”, both titles being given for the past nine years. Crystal Cruises boasts “extraordinary cuisine” coupled with impeccable service.
Crystal offers a large number of 7- to 12-night Mediterranean cruises, many with romantic overtones. For example, the Renaissance Reflection cruise originates in Lisbon and stops in Barcelona, Cannes and Monte Carlo. The Italian Treasures cruise spends seven nights on the west coast of Italy. The Path of the Phoenicians is a twelve-night odyssey from Athens to Istanbul followed by stops at the historically famous Greek islands of Kusadasi, Rhodes, and Santorini before terminating at Venice.
The Yachts of Seabourn cruise line advertises that they provide “Ultra Luxury” by “delivering the highest levels of personalized service to an exclusive group of guests aboard intimate, elegant ships that could visit the most enticing destinations worldwide.” Seabourn sails three identical all-suite ships that cater to only 208 passengers each. Of course, dining and service is world-class.
Seabourn offers longer, leisurely cruises that can explore a small or unique area in-depth. For example, the 17-day Spring Time in Spain cruise originates in Lisbon, Portugal, stops at six Spanish ports plus ports in Monaco, France and the Balearic Islands. Many of the stops were selected due to the availability of golf courses. The 16-day Mediterranean Odyssey II begins at Istanbul; spends six days at Greek ports, four days at Italian ports along with several days at sea before terminating at Lisbon. The 7-day Capitals of Antiquity cruise begins at Cairo, Egypt; tours the historic Greek islands of Rhodes, Mykonos, and Kusadasi before terminating at Istanbul.
If luxury is your objective, there are a large number of out of the ordinary Mediterranean cruises to choose from beyond those discussed here.
Looking for information about cruises? Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com ‘What Cruises’ is published by Colin Hartness – An excellent resource for Cruises! Check out more cruise articles at: http://www.whatcruises.com/archive
How A Boat Can Make Retirement A Pleasure
Boats are a fine part of any man’s retirement. They give us something to do, offer us new places to see and keep us active mind, body and spirit. We in turn need to care for our boats. Repair and maintenance, proper crewing and proper financing including boat insurance are all things that we need to do to keep our boats safe.
Everyone needs something to do. When we retire far too many of us lose our will to keep striving. All of us, need to feel needed, we need to feel like we are doing something worthwhile. For women, this is often simply the continuation of home life and domestic tranquility that made up most of their lives.
Men on the other hand live their lives with a goal. We work for fifty or more years striving to bring home the bacon. Having a goal in front of us is necessary for our psyche. Many men simply die after retiring because they have nothing to do.
Having a boat gives a man something to do. Keeping it in good repair, learning the skills needed to keep it sailing smoothly and keeping track of the finances including things like boat insurance keeps them sharp.
A boat can take you places you have never been before and no two sunrises are the same at sea. You will travel to new places and meet new people, something that will keep anyone young at heart.
Nearly everywhere even inland states have places for someone to enjoy boating. Even if you are on a small lake you will get a different perspective. If you are on the ocean you will find another whole life. The best parts of life still need financial maintenance like mooring fees, licensing and boat insurance.
When we are active we are happier. A man with something to do, a purpose to life is a man who will live longer. Some men can do little things, reading, golfing, fishing from the dock or making a model. These things are all fine activities; I enjoy them myself.
Some need more to do. A boat is a good step down for some. It does not require too much of your time but just enough. Little things like checking on the lanyards or the boat insurance can keep you young and happy in spirit.
Discover important advice and information about boat insurance. What deals should you look for? And what should you avoid. Click http://www.boat-insurance-comprehensive.com/
Boat Detailing – Diagnosing Gel Coat Surfaces
Determining Oxidation Levels on Your Yacht and how to deal with them:
Gel coat is an extremely tough porous surface applied to boats. It is best to preserve the original surface as much as possible just like cars, trucks, etc. You will come across boats that have been improperly sanded, washed, buffed, boats that have been neglected for years, and boats that will require intensive reconditioning because of these flaws. Without question for most boats to look good requires the touch of a professional. To make them look great it is definitely required. First, you must diagnose the level of, if any, oxidation. Do not be intimidated if there is absolutely no gloss, and a chalky residue appears on your hand if you touch the surface. Even this can be redone. Gel coat is tougher than automotive paint and 15 to 20 times thicker. More often than not, you will be able to machine buff out most oxidation and other blemishes. These cloudy surfaces can be remedied and repaired.
Levels of Oxidation
Level 1 or light oxidation: You will see patchy cloudiness in the finish. Remainder is good to very good. You can use a new special product called; Aussie Gold DuraGleem to remove the oxidation and any swirl marks without abrasive action. Or you can do it the hard way, the old fashioned way. In this case you will need to use Meguiar’s #44, Production’s Bristol #9, Monster Aqua Blue or an appropriate light compound. Machine buff with a non-abrasive wool or foam pad and apply the sealant by hand or orbital polisher. A wool pad may be easier than a foam pad to use to keep from sticking or bouncing, especially as the friction heats up the surface. Usually .a high grade Carnauba will suffice. Starbrite has a liquid wax which is very easy to use as well. Most automotive detailing products will suffice at level one oxidation.
Level 2 oxidation or medium oxidation: The surface will have obvious degradation on the deck and the hull. The best product we have found is Aussie Gold’s DuraGleem Extra Cut. It is a little tougher than Aussie Gold DuraGleem Original, but with level 2 oxidation you are going to need it. This may not work on all level two oxidation, but it better to try the easy way first. If this does not work, then you will need to proceed with the Meguiar’s product #49, you’ll need to follow with #45 polish and their #55 sealant. Monster Aqua Blue also has a similar product. Many Marine Industry Detailers prefer Starbrite Products up to level two oxidation. Polish with a polishing pad, orbital buffer or by hand.
Level 3 would result in severe oxidation: You’ll see no reflectivity. The surface is chalky to the touch and to sight. We do not always recommend a foam pad on severe oxidation gel-coat surfaces because it heats up and may slip. Gel coat conditions such as these will usually require a very thorough washing, uni-grit sanding of a minimum of 1500 sandpaper grit, machine buffing with Meguiar’s #49, polishing with Meguiar’s #45 and a finishing with Meguiar’s #55 sealant. If this does not work to your complete statisfaction, you should probably paint the vessel. If you are still intent on saving it then this will require many, many hours of labor and due to environmental concerns, may usually only be performed on land in a controlled setting. If you use Monster Agua-Blue 100, it contains no petroleum products or silicone and is 100% water based and water soluble. This may avoid the hassle of wet sanding.
First try using Monster Agua-Blue 100 and 200 buffing compounds with a wool pad. They are like wet sanding with 1000 grit and 2000 grit sand paper. Then follow with Blue Magnum 80% Carnauba wax or sealant to prolong the finish. There will be pricing guidelines in the manual or you may e-mail the home office for bid price assistance as each project can vary. Here is where we get the stuff.
SwirlMasters
http://www.swirlmasters.com/products.htm
Meguiar’s Unigrit
http://www.meguiars.com
(for safest results)
3M Products
http://www.3m.com
If you cannot find a competent marine canvas person in your area we suggest this phone number to owners who realize that it is far too late for cleaning after holes have occured. If it is time for a new cover call 1-800-362-9154 Walk-Winn Covers.
“Lance Winslow” – If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs
Update April 2005 – Holland America Cruises, Signature of Excellence Program
Holland America Cruise Lines has initiated a program of up-scaling their cruise ships, cruise line image and passenger cruise experience. This initiative is called the Signature of Excellence program and will soon be experienced by cruise passengers on all Holland America cruises.
The award winning Holland America five star fleet of cruise ships will all have the unparalleled enhancements by the end of 2006. Included in the program are enhancements to the impeccable service Holland America guests have become accustomed to as well.
Premium cruising aboard Holland America’s fleet will be enhanced by state-of-the-art facilities and public areas. Included are stateroom amenities, luxury beds and bed linens. All Holland America cruise ships will include the Neptune Lounge, Pinnacle Grill, Explorations Café, the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, and a Culinary Arts Center.
Changes will be made for children and teens cruising with Holland America as well. The program includes newly expanded youth facilities with the “Club HAL” program. For teens, Holland America has included The Loft and The Oasis.
To date, Holland America has completed the program on six of their premium cruise ships – Prinsendam, Rotterdam, Ryndam, Statendam, Westerdam, and Zaandam. Holland America’s cruise ship Amsterdam is due to have the program implemented by early October 2005. Volendam will see her program initiated in mid December 2005. HAL’s Zuiderdam will see her program implemented in time for her holiday Caribbean cruise at the end of December 2005. Veendam will initiate her program on a western Caribbean cruise in late January 2006. Late April will see Maasdam initiate her completed program on a Canada/New England cruise. Rounding out the Holland America Signature of Excellence initiative will be Oosterdam early in November 2006 on a short 4 day cruise from Vancouver to San Fransisco.
For more information on Holland America cruises and tours, check out some of our other interesting cruise articles. To find the best deals on Holland American cruises and tours check out the merchant links on our cruise discount page. Then all there is to do is to book your fantastic cruise on-line and get excited!
Brian A Schmidt is the author and web publisher of a1-discount-cruises. This site is your #1 source for cruise information, discounts and deals! Visit http://www.a1-discount-cruises.com to check out the best cruise values.
