Deck the Halls with Boughs of Holly (and Hopefully No Seasickness) A Suite Natured Look at Christmas Cruising
Ah, Christmas. A time for family, festive cheer, and copious amounts of eggnog that would make Santa blush. But what if you're looking for something a little different this year? Something that involves swapping the fireplace for a cruise show ? Then a Christmas cruise might be the answer you've been rocking around the Christmas tree for!
Now, before you set sail with visions of sugar plum fairies dancing in your head (and visions of buffets overflowing with roast turkey), let's address the elephant in the Santa suit: is a Christmas cruise for you?
The Pros: Wear Your Christmas Jumper with Pride (and No Judgement)
Christmas Cheer on Sea: Picture yourself sipping on a mulled wine under a twinkling Christmas tree, surrounded by carols and festive decorations. It's like stepping into a Hallmark movie, but without the underlying pressure to get engaged to a lumberjack by the end of the week.
Destination Hopping with a Twist: Christmas cruises often take you to different ports, each with its own unique take on the holidays. Imagine strolling through a quaint European town bathed in Christmas lights, or soaking up the sunshine on a Caribbean beach with a Santa hat on (because why not?).
All You Can Eat (Almost) and All You Can Be Merry: Let's be honest, a big part of the festive season is indulging in delicious food. Cruise ships are basically floating buffets, and at Christmas time, they go into overdrive. Just be sure to pack your stretchy pants and a game plan for navigating the inevitable food coma.
Brugges Christmas Market
One of the most iconic of the European Christmas Markets. There are actually several of these Christmas Market areas throughout the city, and all are equally lovely.
The Cons: Sharing Your Christmas with Thousands of Your Closest Strangers
The Price Tag That Could Make Scrooge Blush: Christmas cruises tend to be on the pricier side. But hey, you're basically paying for all-inclusive Christmas cheer, complete with pre-programmed entertainment (no need to stress about finding that perfect carol singer for your grandma).
Not All Christmas Cruises Are Equal: It would be fantastic if every cruise line went to the same efforts as each other over Christmas, but the truth is, they don’t. Some just put up the decorations, and nothing else, other go the full Christmas trimmings and have themed cocktails, gingerbread houses, shows and more. Make sure to research the cruise line before you go on it, and maybe watch some YouTube videos to get a better idea and avoid disappointment.
Some Might Be Too Christmassy: This might seem impossible, but some cruise lines might overload on Christmas too much for you. Disney Cruises for example are amazing, if you want to be in the centre of Christmas for the cruise, but if you want to have a bit more subdued cruise, then it could be one to avoid.
The Not-So-Silent Night: Certain Cruise line are notorious for being a bit raucous. Between the enthusiastic cruise directors, the energetic kids' clubs, and the noise of the bars and restaurants, silence is a rare commodity. So, if you're dreaming of a Silent Night, then some Christmas cruises might not be your best bet. Maybe look at smaller ships, adult only cruises or river cruises instead.
Seasickness and Santa's Little Helper: If you're prone to seasickness, then a cruise ship might not be the most stable platform for your Christmas cheer. Just remember, Kwells or Ginger are your friend, and there's a reason why they call it the "high seas."
The Verdict: Bah Humbug or Ho Ho Ho?
So, is a Christmas cruise for you? Only you can decide. But if you're looking for a unique and festive way to spend the holidays, then it's definitely worth considering. Just pack your patience, your seasickness medication, and your most outrageous Christmas jumper, and you're all set to set sail for a holly jolly adventure!
P.S. If you do decide to go on a Christmas cruise, be sure to pack some seasickness medication – just in case Santa's little helpers decide to give your stomach a workout, as you are cruising (in the Northern Hemisphere at least) in Winter.
P.P.S. And remember, even if the weather isn't cooperating and it's more mistletoe and mayhem than a winter wonderland, you're still on a cruise! So, grab a fruity cocktail, put on your swimsuit, and embrace the fact that you're basically living out your own personal Christmas miracle (because seriously, who needs snow when you have a pool bar?).
