Where
would you like to go on summer
vacation – the sandy beaches
of the Caribbean, Bahamas and
Bermuda? The cool glaciers of
Alaska? The history-laden Europe/Mediterranean
region? The colorful landscapes
of Canada and New England? Or
perhaps the exotic lands of
South America or Hawaii?
Wherever you want
to go, the member lines of the
Cruise Lines International Association
(CLIA) have a cruise to take
you there.
“Cruise
ships take travelers to the
world’s most popular destinations
during summer’s peak vacation
season,” says Terry L.
Dale, president and CEO of CLIA,
the non-profit association representing
the North American cruise industry
and nearly 16,000 travel agencies.
“In fact, with so many
diverse destinations available,
perhaps the hardest summer vacation
decision may be where to cruise.”
For those who
seek sun and sand, there are
the perennial vacation favorites
– the Caribbean/Bahamas
and Bermuda – with delightful
shopping experiences, beautiful
beaches, unique landscapes and
historic architecture. Visitors
can participate in snorkeling,
scuba diving, sailing, swimming
and fishing as well as horseback
riding, bird watching and golf
on some of the world’s
most famous courses.
Alaska also continues
to be a favorite summer cruise
destination. CLIA-member cruise
lines provide travelers with
a broad range of experiences,
both onboard and on shore, offering
cultural enrichment, adventure
and relaxation. While taking
in the scenic wonders of the
“Last Frontier,”
cruise passengers can gain insights
into the culture and environment
of the region through presentations
by naturalists, National Park
rangers, native guest speakers,
artisans and entertainers.
Guests with a
taste for adventure will find
plenty to satisfy their appetites
on an Alaska cruise. Among the
active options are kayaking,
Jeep safaris, snorkeling, helicopter/hiking
expeditions, dog sledding and
snowshoe trekking. Those seeking
a less vigorous pursuit might
opt for bear or whale watching,
taking in the sights of the
picturesque towns and villages,
enjoying the chance to catch
a trophy salmon or halibut,
or even a relaxing spa experience
or some of the many other activities
offered onboard.
Cruising in Europe
and the Mediterranean region
continue to be good values and
continue among the most popular
cruise destinations.
“Travelers
can enjoy the history, charm
and culture of the various cities
as well as the luxury and pampering
that is an integral part of
a cruise vacation,” says
Dale. “Cruise passengers
can take a a close-up look at
where history was made, explore
some of the world’s most
famous cultural sites or simply
enjoy the beauty of magnificent
landscapes,” says Dale.
For those seeking
a vacation that is a little
more unusual or exotic might
want to cruise the tropical
waters and islands of Hawaii
or explore the lands of South
America.
As the end of
summer approaches, a cruise
along the eastern seaboard enables
guests to preview the arrival
of fall and take in the magnificent
colors of Mother Nature’s
fall finery from the deck of
a luxurious ship. Travelers
can select from experiences
of five to 12 nights and ships
of nearly every size and style.
Land programs and shore excursions
enable travelers to explore
historic sites along the way.
While the tastes
of Maine lobster and Boston
clam chowder are sure to be
included on these itineraries,
several cruise lines are planning
additional special events, such
as a culinary theme cruise featuring
renowned chefs and a cruise
focusing on antique collecting.
“There is such a great
variety of cruise itineraries
available during the summer
months that it is no problem
finding a cruise that fits your
family’s schedule and
interests,” says Dale.
“The first step toward
a memorable summer vacation
is a visit to a CLIA-member
travel agency, where a certified
cruise expert can find the cruise
that suits your needs.”
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