The feel-good factor and cruises: a perfect package

Even though pleasure voyages are now the holiday of choice for millions of ordinary people every year, the very notion is still inextricably linked with luxury and conjures up images of plush cabins, fine dining, glamorous ballrooms and romantic moments under the stars. In fact, that image is not far wrong. The only difference being that in reality, there is far, far more to commend this type of getaway if it’s quality service and opulence you’re after. In this day and age, people are constantly looking at how to alleviate stress and improve their quality of life. We all need downtime to recharge our batteries and keep our bodies fit and healthy. And if we’re lucky enough to get it, we know how a little pampering from time to time can lift the spirits no end. We also know that looking good can help us feel good. P&O cruises and pretty much all the other lines cater perfectly to these needs and desires by including among their myriad of on board amenities heavenly spas, beauty salons and fitness rooms. Some lines actually have specialist spa trips where those who are serious about unwinding can apply themselves full-time to the art of relaxation. Whether it’s Celebrity cruises or any other, you can be assured your ship will have modern amenities and will be staffed by professionals, often with a wealth of industry experience. So, if you’re determined to spoil yourself, or simply be kind to body and mind, this is definitely how.

Costa Serena Cabin

"All in all a fantastic way to spend a holiday, different ports of call, good food , comfortable cabins and plenty of activities on board the ship." - Walker, Sinclairston on 16th Jun 2009 (Royal Caribbean Cruises)

Because you’re worth it

Once you start doing a little research, you’ll be amazed at just how much choice there is in terms of itinerary. Whatever part of the world your heart desires and for however long you’ve got, you’re sure to find something to fit the bill. You may have thought that the few short days you have off would rule out this sort of trip but most companies like Princess cruises offer weekend getaways to relatively nearby but surprisingly charming destinations. Regardless of how long you’re going to be away, having the spa to hand means you can take the fullest advantage of the long opening hours and book in at times to suit you. Imagine the most difficult decision of the day being whether to go for the Swedish or the Thai massage. And what if there’s reflexology, Reiki, Indian head massages, hot stone and sports therapies? Cunard cruises, for example, only employ highly skilled technicians who can be relied upon to work to the high standards you expect. Likewise when it comes to the beauty salon. The list of treatments can be quite confounding at first but luckily, it’s easy to get used to! Of course there are manicures, pedicures, waxing, facials, hair-styling and make-up as standard but some lines such as Royal Caribbean cruises offer enhanced hair and beauty treatments in exquisite settings sometimes with ocean views. You will emerge from your ‘me time’ feeling soothed, refreshed and invigorated and maybe even transformed with a whole new make-over.

Disabled Cabin Onboard Summit

"We had an excellent time. Everything was well organised. The food was excellent and the flexibility of eating when you wanted was great not formal stuffy nights and always eating at the same time." - Butler, Stockport on 16th Jun 2009 (Ocean Village Cruises)

Fitness and health

Although there’s often a correlation, looking good on the outside doesn’t necessarily equate with being healthy on the inside. Furthermore, there is a growing awareness that in order to both be and feel healthy we need to have a holistic approach to body and mind. For many of us, practicing a sport, working out in the gym or attending fitness classes is a regular part of our everyday lives. If it isn’t, you may just be tempted to turn over a whole new leaf and get into some good habits while at sea. Ships belonging to the likes of Fred Olsen cruises have state-of-the-art fitness centres and a complete programme of classes to choose from including activities such as aerobics, Pilates and yoga. Not having to travel to do so means you have more time to exercise (or fewer excuses to avoid it!) Again, experienced, fully-trained employees are on hand to teach novices and ensure safety. MSC cruises offer personalised exercise programmes with advice on healthy eating and special meal plans to help you steer the course to total well-being. You may be surprised to hear that you can find jogging and walking tracks, basketball courts and 24 hour fitness centres aboard NCL cruises. Basically, no matter what company you choose, you’ll always have a pool and an array of sporting possibilities to suit everyone, whether you’re the adventurous type into rock-climbing or more the sedate golfer. And whatever you have access to aboard, there’s going to be still more in port.

Pool area ready for the evening show

"I have to say it was a wonderful experience. The service all round was exceptional." - Cremin, Studham on 16th Jun 2009 (Cunard Cruises)

Seeing the sights

Naturally, there’s far more to this type of trip than pampering and keeping fit. Ocean liners are famous for their bounteous buffets and gourmet delights. Those who are more careful about what they eat or have special dietary requirements will have no trouble being catered for, as was touched on earlier. And of course, once your feet touch dry land, there are any number of exquisite delicacies to be sampled. Caribbean cruises will take you to island hopping and you will soon notice how each one has its own particular predilections. Likewise in the Mediterranean or any other region as you find yourself sailing from nation to nation savouring a variety of culinary delights. Beyond all of this, there are the untold pleasures of sightseeing and learning about ancient civilisations, fascinating traditions and local customs. Nor do you need to voyage to the other side of the world to enjoy such experiences. Believe it or not, they are all available on your proverbial doorstep. Even the shortest round-trip cruises from Southampton could take you to French shores and the Channel Islands, Spain or the Eastern Med, all of which have captivating attractions and intriguing histories. And being the patron of a floating hotel means your excursion or activity is pre-arranged and you’ll have no luggage to worry about. At the end of the day, you can either dance the night away or retire early to dream about what wondrous gems will reveal themselves to you at your next port of call.

Ventura Propellers

"We chose MV Discovery for the fourth time for its friendliness, service, food, entertainment and standard of guest speakers and, once again, we were not disappointed." - Bushell, Long Ditton on 16th Jun 2009 (Voyages of Discovery)