how to Cruises

Caribbean Aboard Royal Caribbean..........................

No one knows the Caribbean better than Royal Caribbean. After all
it is their middle name. And when it comes to beautiful beaches and sparkling blue waters
the Caribbean is really the place. There are countless adventures within reach when you cruise the caribbean. Snorkle with stingrays in Grand Cayman. Join in an actual race on one of New Zealand's former America's Cup yachts in the Bahamas. Then
there's the El Yunque Rain Forest in Puerto Rico
Christoffel National Park in Cura็ao
and the Mayan Ruins in Cozumel
just a few of what can be done at the ports of call.

Highlights of Some Exciting Shore Excursion when Cruising:

-Climb Jamaica's Dunn's River Falls.
-Go mountain biking in Costa Rica's rain forests.
-Snorkel with stingrays.
-Go horseback riding on the beach.
-Dive 800 feet below sea level in a research submarine.
-Discover the inhabitants of a coral reef on a glass-bottomed boat.
-Visit Labadeeฎ
one of Royal Caribbean's exclusive
private destinations.
-Explore ancient civilizations as you climb mysterious Mayan pyramids.

Snapshot of the 3 parts of the caribbean:

Western Caribbean
Besides their tropical paradise settings
the islands are home to rich culture and complex histories. Explore archaic ruins
beaches
rain forests and numerous waterfalls. Spend a fun-filled afternoon at Royal Caribbean floating Aqua Park in Labadeeฎ
a private destination available only to Royal Caribbean guests.

Eastern Caribbean
Take in the Sun surrounded by the white-sand beaches and beautiful turquoise waters of the most beautiful islands on earth. Find adventure parasailing high above it all or at the Dolphin Encounter. Or visit Labadeeฎ
one of Royal Caribbeans
tropical private destinations where nature brings striking mountains and pristine beaches within arm's reach.

Southern Caribbean
The most Fasinating Caribbean islands await you down south. Activities are endless in this area. You can navigate the Hato Caves in Cura็ao. Take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to race an America's Cup sailboat. Kick back and take in some sun at Magens Bay Beach in beautiful St. Thomas. Walk down the streets of Old San Juan and explore the largest Spanish citadel built in the New World. And study the many cultures that make up these exotic islands

What is the best way to travel with your kids to exotic or unusual destinations without dealing with multiple plane rides and dragging luggage day after day? Go on a cruise! Kids can definitely cruise
especially these days. Kids are big business and cruise lines
more and more
are catering to the younger crowd.

Research the various cruise lines. Ask your local travel agent for ideas. Many cruise ships allow children
but may not necessarily cater to their needs and interests. The great thing about cruises is that families can hang out
spend some quality time together and do a ton of activities all in one spot. It’s a relatively stress-free time because the kids can’t wander off … you know they are somewhere on the ship.

When traveling with the family
you are always conscious of your budget. One reason cruises are becoming more popular is because of the cost. For one price
you get food
transportation
accommodations
great entertainment
many ship activities and special programs just for kids. Also
there are often cruising specials where kids can cruise for free.

Cruise ships offer a secure place for kids to have fun and play while the parents partake of the ship’s many adult activities. Child care is taken care of and many times the cruise ship will offer beepers for kids and parents to keep track of each other. Youth counselors (sort of like the counselors you get at a summer camp) are on board to keep children active with many activities like crafts
sports
movies and more.

If you are unsure what the cruise line offers for children
there are a few basic questions you can ask your local travel agent. First of all
are there age restrictions? As with other businesses that offer discounts for smaller children
does yours meet the criteria for any price breaks? Do the ship destinations have activities suited for kids? Are there any special activities for kids?

If you have small children
be sure to ask if there are cribs or beds available for youngsters. How big are the cabins? This is a deciding factor on if you should try and book two cabins that have adjoining doors. Are there menus designed specifically for kids? Sometimes
ships may have several dining times. Ask if there is a certain dining hour that is best for families with children.

Availability of children’s activities could be a deciding factor on booking a cruise. What kind of activities are there for kids? Will there be lifeguards specifically for the children? Do kids have their own pool to swim in? Check into babysitting services and any extra fees. Parents may want to take a break from the kids and have a dinner date alone or go dancing.

Before making a decision
do your homework on what the best cruise is for your family. Keep the timing of your family vacation in mind as well. Spring breaks and other holidays from school are busy periods for a cruise line. If you want to set sail during one of these times
you may have to book up to a year in advance. Once you get on that ship however
be prepared to leave your worries behind and have fun with your kids.

For three
five
seven or however many days
the ship’s cabin will be your second home. Depending on your plans for rest and relaxation
you might want to give some thought to your choice of cabins. If you plan to be on the go
go
go and partake of all the ship has to offer
then pay for the cheapest cabin rate. After all
you will only be in your cabin to sleep and change your clothes. However
if you need to be alone and plan to huddle in your cabin at times
reconsider your options.

All cruise cabins are created for comfort with a sensible design where you can move with ease. Nonetheless
all cruise cabins are not the same. Your normal
average cruise ship cabin is going to be smaller that what you would find at some landlocked hotel. To compensate for the size
cruise lines spoil the passengers with mints on their pillows
shampoos
bath gel
fluffy robes and other amenities.

The cruise ship cabins were designed to make the best of the least amount of space possible. Sure some cabins have more room than others
but in any case
not a square inch is wasted. The cruise literature depicts a roomy cabin but that is just trick photography. The furnishings are utilitarian
but attractive. There is often a queen or king sized bed that could be broken down into twin beds if you were traveling with a companion other than a spouse or significant other. A closet or wardrobe is also in the cabin with a desk
bathroom
shower and chair. Depending on the size of your cabin
you might even have a little nook with a small couch and table.

Inside cabins tend to be the most economical. If you do not mind not having any windows or portholes to see outside
then this might be the choice for you. Inside cabins are usually about the same size as the outside cabins. It does tend to be darker when you have an inside cabin
so keep that in mind.

Outside cruise ship cabins have a window or a few portholes
which allow the sunshine to come into your cabin. If you are susceptible to claustrophobia and the thought of an inside cabin with no window gives you the shakes
book an outside cabin.

If enjoying the ocean views in the privacy of your own cabin is a must
consider booking an outside cabin with a balcony or terrace. This option is pricier
but it gives you a private view of the ocean with your own little deck.

If you have the expendable cash and want the “ooh-la-la” factor
consider the cruise ship suite option. Just picture the usual amenities along with some excess square footage. You definitely have room to maneuver! You’ll have extras like a mini-refrigerator and a private veranda.

The only thing about booking a cabin is that you cannot pick what part of the ship you want. You pay the going rate for the kind of cabin you want and hope for the best when it comes to its location like being near elevators or the bow are of the ship. If you are worried about seasickness
request a cabin on the lower decks. You may not be able to be accommodated
but it never hurts to ask. Just remember to keep in mind why you are on the cruise in the first place. Choose the best type of cabin for your needs and enjoy your cruising experience.

ฉ 2006
All Rights Reserved

In 2003
New York announced the grand opening of a new alternative port for cruise lines. Because ports in Florida were becoming more and more crowded
additional docking facilities in interesting cities on the Eastern Seaboard were needed to provide cruise lines with a new home port. The port has been wildly popular. So much so that another has been added in nearby Brooklyn.

The Red Hook terminal in a neighborhood in Brooklyn opened in April 2006 and welcomed its first permanent resident
Cunard's Queen Mary 2 (formerly docked in Manhattan). Located on the Buttermilk Channel
the Brooklyn terminal gave the first increase in New York cruise ship pier capacity in over 30 years. With the likes of Cunard and Princess cruise lines as eager residents
the terminal has already become a success. Most other major cruise lines have also assigned vessels to sail from Brooklyn.

Princess Cruise lines will launch the Crown Princess from the Brooklyn dock in June 2006 for a Caribbean cruise. From June to October
Princess will offer numerous Caribbean tours
including calls on ports in popular destinations such as the Virgin Islands
Grand Turk and Jamaica. Star Princess will begin cruises from Brooklyn in October 2006 visiting ports up and down the New England and Canadian seacoast.

But Brooklyn? It doesn't seem like the most exciting location for a cruise ship port. On the contrary. While not normally publicized as a vibrant city with plenty to do
Brooklyn offers cruisers an opportunity to spend a few days in New York before or after their tour.

Very similar to Manhattan
Brooklyn offers a trendy nightlife as well as diverse cultures and eclectic cuisine. Bars
clubs and restaurants line the streets
offering a tremendous variety of options for visitors and locals alike.

If culture is your thing
Chinatown is always a wonderful experience. In addition
Flatbush offers the largest Caribbean population in the United States. In either place
you'll delight in the authentic sights
sounds and tastes on every corner.

With spectacular views of many popular attractions
including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty
the Red Hook terminal also offers exciting options for sightseers. However
New York City is just a short cab ride away and opens a virtual treasure trove of attractions
shows
museums and affairs.

Overall
Brooklyn offers greater value (with lower rates on hotels) and a central location
making it a wonderful choice for both vacationers and the cruise lines. If New York is closer for you than Florida
or if you've been longing to visit the Big Apple
consider booking your next cruise from the Red Hook terminal in Brooklyn. Your travel agent will have a complete listing of which cruise lines sail from Red Hook and the destinations available.

One of the many highlights of Greek life is the ubiquitous formal
when fraternities and sororities gather to mix
form friendships and share memorable times. Instead of renting out a hall
hiring a caterer
arranging for bar service
finding a DJ or band
and all the other necessities that go along with planning such a huge event
consider letting someone else handle all of the details with a luxurious cruise around New York.

Let fully-licensed and accredited captains-certified by the Coast Guard-handle the driving all night long
while you put your feet up with a drink or stay on your feet all night long on the dance floor. Enjoy some of the finest DJs and bartenders the Big Apple has to offer and just let the night take its own course without any worries or concerns.

Take that special acquaintance out on one of the outdoor decks for a stroll under the stars. Grab her hand and take her for a spin on the dance floor or sit down quietly with a drink from the bar and get to know each other better. However you prefer to pursue new friendships
you'll have the opportunity to do just that while you cruise around New York.

From Ellis Island to South Street Seaport
from Governor's Island to Chelsea Piers
from New York Harbor to the East River
you'll see all the amazing sights that New York has to offer. Make sure your next fraternity/sorority formal is one for the books with an affordable
all-inclusive cruise!

Marco Polo Cruises understand the value of having a courteous
professional crew that will ensure your safety
comfort and enjoyment. We'll bring you all the incredible views of New York-all you have to do is relax!

Learn more about how to set up a fantastic fraternity and sorority formal by clicking around our Web site. Call us at 1-212-691-6693 to find out more about our services.

Cruises are the most versatile of vacations no matter what your age. Not only that
it's a great way to bring the whole family but still have time alone with your spouse while the kids-only activity coordinators take charge of your children's fun.

The first step to putting together a great cruise vacation is to find yourself a travel agency that specializes in cruises
or to book directly through a cruise vacation Internet site.

Before you contact the travel agent though you need to determine when you're going
where you're going and from which port you'll depart and to which you'll return.

There are some seasonal rules of thumb about your destination. If you're limited in the time of year you can get away then you're also somewhat limited in your destination. You can't
for instance
cruise the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska any time during the summer. Europe has about the same seasonal restriction as well. If you're planning on heading out in the spring or fall you might want to consider an excursion up and down the Panama Canal. Just about any time of year
including the winter
you can cruise to Asia or the Caribbean.

Determine who is going to go with you. Knowing if children or seniors will be a part of your vacation group will effect which trip offers the best choices of entertainment for your party. In fact
it's best to gather everyone together
or conduct a phone or e-mail discussion of what everyone wants to do. You need to know if crafts are important; how many are going to lounge by the pool; who wants to get off and explore at the first land stop; who prefers exotic locations and who'd rather just play shuffleboard.

The size of the ship can be important as well. Larger ships have a vast variety of entertainment options
such as dancing and stage shows
although smaller ships may provide a lower guest to staff ratio
and thus more personal attention to your needs.

Know how much you and the others can spend. If money is a critical factor look for discounts for booking early
or starting out on a different day or different week from your original request. Staying flexible can save you considerable money. Ask about port fees as well. These are not usually included in the quoted cruise cost and may cost you dearly. You'll also be expected to tip room stewards and wait staff.

If you're not going as a large group and you might be interested in getting to know your fellow passengers then be sure and inquire about the usual demographics of these travelers. If you're 20 something and it's a baby boomer cruise you're apt to be bored. If you bring your grade schoolers and most of the other kids are in their teens they won't have enough playmates and you'll be their entertainment for the extent of the cruise.

One very important inquiry to make of your travel agent as well is the formality of the cruise that you're considering. If you show up with a suitcase full of swimsuits
shorts and sunscreen only to find out formal dress is required at dinner you're going to be embarrassed or hungry the entire excursion.

So you’ve always wanted to take a dream cruise vacation. Maybe it’s one of those things that wound up on the back burner
but you’ve started to believe that you just won’t be able to save up the money to take yourself and the spouse
or the whole family
on such a trip. Think again.

The cruise industry is growing faster than ever
and with this huge expansion comes more opportunities to save money on special cruise deals. With more vacationers taking to the seas cruise lines are growing larger and can afford to offer special discounts to customers to get more people hooked on this luxury style of vacationing. Those looking for a cruise vacation can make a few smart decisions and save themselves a lot of cash without much sacrifice.

The first step is to look into theme packages. Many cruises offer special discounts for certain lifestyles or age groups. There may be a family discount
a golden years discount
or a honeymoon discount available. Depending on what type of cruise you want and who’s going with you
this can be a huge money-saver if you’re willing to accept what is offered in the packaged deal.

When it comes time to book your cruise
believe it or not
don’t be too hasty. Many cruise lines receive unexpected cancellations at the last minute
and are eager to fill the empty slots. A would-be vacationer can often get extremely good deals if their schedule allows them to wait until the last minute to book. Call a cruise line days before a ship sets sail
and you might be pleasantly surprised by what you hear regarding discount rates for last-minute trips.

If you find a cruise line that you like
consider booking any future cruise vacations with the same line. Many cruise lines give discounts to repeat customers and you will probably receive a good percentage off your rate if you book a cruise at the same time each year with the same company. Talk to a travel agent who specializes in cruises. Often these agents can get you deals as well
especially with cruise lines they book often. By booking through an experienced travel agent you may earn the instant right to be a preferred customer.

Finally
do your research! There are many sites online for discount cruise fares
just as there are for airfares and other types of travel. Some websites specialize in locating cheap cruises for those who wish to vacation on a budget. Make use of a search engine
and don’t get discouraged… your cheap cruise is out there somewhere. The trick is using resources and a little brain work to find it.

Miami-based Royal Caribbean International
the world's second-largest cruise line
announced on February 6
2006
that it had ordered the largest and most expensive cruise ship in the world
a $1.24 billion vessel which can hold up to 6
400
passengers. It is to be named Project Genesis.

This ship
which is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2009 by shipbuilder Aker Yards of Oslo
will be 220
0
gross register tons. A gross register ton
a standard measure of a ship's size
is a unit of volume equal to about 100 cubic feet. It is to be built at a Finnish shipyard.

Aker is to be paid 900 million euros ($1 billion) to build the ship
making Project Genesis the most expensive ship ever ordered in the history of commercial shipbuilding. The $1.24 billion figure includes all expenses required for interior finishing of the ship. Royal Caribbean contract with Aker includes an option for a second ship.

Richard Fain
the chairman and chief executive of Royal Caribbean said of Project Genesis
It is exhilarating to take such a giant step into the future. Project Genesis truly is a remarkable ship. Its bold design, daring innovation and technological advancements will delight our existing customers and help us draw in new ones.


Aker Yards Finland currently builds Royal Caribbean's "Freedom" class vessels. However
the Project Genesis ship will be 43 percent larger than the present recordholder
Freedom of the Seas
which is currently under construction and scheduled to be finished by April 2006.

The biggest ship currently in operation is the Queen Mary 2
at 151
400
gross register tons. It is owned by the Cunard Line
a unit of the Carnival Corporation
which is the world's largest cruise ship company. The British-registered liner is 1
132
feet long
more than 236 feet high
and can hold 2
620
passengers. The QM2 is capable of crossing the North Atlantic at a speed of 30 knots. The 14-day 2004 maiden voyage from Southampton
in southern England
to Fort Lauderdale
Florida on January 12
2004
was completely sold out months before departure.

The QM2 has 17 decks which hold five swimming-pools
sweeping staircases
a grand ballroom
a 360-degree promenade deck and many luxury shops. Cunard Line built the ship in hope of reviving the glamour of ocean liners
whose mystique has largely been dispelled since jet travel made trips across the Atlantic routine.

A one-way passage from Southampton to New York ranges from $1
817
to $28
0
per person
depending on the type of cabin selected
as well as a daily service charge.

The original Queen Mary was launched in 1934 at Southampton by the queen's grandmother -- Queen Mary
wife of King George V. This ship was slightly more than half the size of the new model. In the second World War
both the Queen Mary and its sister ship
Queen Elizabeth
were painted grey and served as troopships
since they were fast enough to outrun German U-boats. Winston Churchill later stated that the military use of these two ships shortened the war by a year.

The ship was retired in 1967 and sold to private investors. It is now docked permanently as a seaside hotel in Long Beach
California.

The QM2 took the title of world's largest cruise liner from Royal Caribbean's 1
20
foot-long Liberia-registered "Voyager of the Seas
launched in 1999.

As a sign of just how much passenger ships have increased in size during this century, the QM2 is three times the size of the Titanic, which at 46,300 tons and 800 feet was called the
largest movable object built by man" when launched in 1911. However
all the giant cruise ships are comparatively tiny compared to the largest of all ships - a 564
700
supertanker Seawise Giant built in 1979
and now called Jahre Viking.

A ship still in the planning stage would dwarf all current sea-going vessels : the Freedom Ship. It is essentially a plan for a floating city
a giant barge that would slowly circle the globe every 2-3 years. At 4
320
feet (1
317
meters) long
725
feet (221 m) wide and 340 feet (103 m) tall
the ship is taller than the length of a football field and wider than two football fields put together.

It would hold 18
0
condominium units for full-time residents ranging from $180
0
to $2.5 million
including a small number of premium suites priced up to $44 million. 3
0
commercial units for vendors would also be offered in a similar price range. For part-time residents
there will be 2
400
time-share units and 10
0
hotel units. It will also hold a casino
a ferryboat transportation system
a medical facility offering both Western and Eastern medicine as well as preventive and anti-aging medicine. A landing strip for small jets will cover the top. An onboard school will give students a chance to take a field trip into a different country each week for academic purposes or to compete with local schools in sporting events. There will also be an International Trade Center to give on-board companies and shops the opportunity to show and sell their products in a different country every week. More than 100 acres of outdoor Park
Recreation
Exercise and Community space have also been planned.

Norman Nixon
who developed the idea for the massive ship
has estimated it will take approximately three years to complete once construction begins. So far
this ambitious project has not been able to attract sufficient investment funds to get off the drawing board.

Prom night represents a rite of passage in many ways. With the remaining days of high school dwindling and the responsibilities of adulthood rapidly approaching
students want to make sure that their prom is one that can be remembered with smiles and tears far into the future. That's why you should do something a little different when it's time to plan your prom-celebrate this amazing night on the water!

When you enjoy all that the Big Apple has to offer from the comfort of a luxurious yacht
you'll create wonderful memories and great photo opportunities. Your prom night will be a topic of conversation among you and your friends for years. You passed your high school years with a core group of friends that you laughed
cried
studied and partied with … it's only natural that you want to commemorate the end of those days and toast new beginnings in style.

Of course
romance is an essential element in any good prom night. The right yachts have terrific dance floors
talented DJs and beautiful outdoor decks. Whether you want to dance the night away with that special someone or hold hands under the stars as New York's landmarks drift past
the evening will unfold exactly as you wish.

Trust Marco Polo Cruises when you want to plan a different and much-talked-about prom night. We are attentive to all of your needs and work to design a cruise that will fit within your budget. We do everything in our power to create enjoyable
comfortable and safe cruises that offer gorgeous views of New York Harbor
Chelsea Piers
the Statue of Liberty and other hallmark New York historical spots.

Browse our Web site to find out all you need to know about how Marco Polo Cruises can ensure that your prom night is all that you ever wanted it to be. Contact us at 1-212-691-6693 if you require additional assistance.

To find the best price cruises online and booking them with confidence
you need to understand a few things about how the cruising industry comes up with their lowest price
and follow a few simple steps that the travel professionals at your local agencies don’t want to you know!

The fact remains that over 90% of cruise reservations are done through a travel agent
and you’re not only at the mercy of their service fees
but also to the prices they charge for a particular cruise and sailing. So why do so many individuals go through this booking avenue
when they know the deals are far better online
and they have access to a computer and the Internet?

The answers simple! The cruise industry believes that customers new and seasoned may not truly understand the cruise ships industry language
or feel comfortable booking online! They put their dependency on many travel professionals to interpret the cruising lingo that is the integral part of the cruise booking process.

However
if you take the time to learn and understand the cruise lines language such as guaranteed staterooms
singles supplement
or run-of-the-ship
you should have no worries booking your next vacation cruise online
and start taking advantage of all the fantastic savings!

Booking Cruise Travel Over The Internet Is Simple and Easier Than You Think!

When you’re searching the Internet to find a cruise special
keep in mind that if you go direct to the main cruise lines site
such as Royal Caribbean
Carnival
or Princess
you may end up paying a higher cabin price than the online cruise discounters
even though they may be showing reduced cabin prices on their sites.

In order to get the best discounts
you should source large vacation suppliers such as Travelocity
Expedia
or exclusive cruise booking sites like CruiseDirect.com
which specialize in selling cruises
and offer a unique booking engine that can quickly put together your cruise package in minutes.

Why go through these online cruise specialists
and travel suppliers?

Even though the cruise lines want to deal with you directly
they also need to keep a solid business relationship with their travel agencies that are currently booking a majority of cruises for them though their local offices and online vacation websites.

With online travel suppliers and Internet cruise company’s
they deal with the cruise lines a little differently
and they either pre-purchase cabins at a very low discounted price
or they’re large enough to be directly linked to the cruiselines inventory database system. They are also capable of receiving live updated stateroom information daily
and in most cases hourly! With this powerful online system
they can take these updated cabin inventory deals
and pass them directly to the consumer
which offers you the consumer far deeper discounted savings!

What this means to you
is that once you understand what these suppliers are offering
you will have a better chance of reserving your favourite cruise in minutes and take advantage of the incredible discounts that could easily range from 20% - 60%
depending on the seasonality
type of itinerary
and actual cruise ship you book.

Just make sure that before you make any reservations online
that if you have any doubts
or understanding what your booking
contact the customer service departments via their toll-free numbers
or the cruise lines email
and they will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have prior to booking your next cruise vacation.

If you are cruising for the first time – congratulations! You are in for a unique
worthwhile experience. As a newbie
though
you probably have questions about some of the do’s and don’ts of traveling aboard a cruise ship. Luckily
there are many die-hard cruisers who are happy to share some tips to make your first time more rewarding.

Before You Leave Home:

Have a friend or neighbour take in your mail daily. Accumulating mail is a big sign to thieves and other troublemakers that no one is home. You could also have your mail held at the post office until you return.

Set your lights on timers so that it appears someone is home to deter troublemakers. Tell your neighborhood community patrol to make a few extra passes by your home while you are away.

Preprint labels and stamps if you plan to mail postcards out while you are on your cruise. This saves some time and you won’t have to lug around an awkward address book.

Money Matters:

Stock up on traveler’s checks since they are replaceable if lost or stolen. To expedite the replacements should your traveler’s checks be lost or stolen
write down the serial numbers and put them in a safe and separate place. That way
it makes the bank’s job a little easier and speed up the process for your replacements.

Keep a handy supply of small denominational bills
usually one’s and five’s. Tipping is appreciated for porters and stewards at both the airport and docking pier of the ship. This is especially important in foreign countries. Horror stories abound about stolen or “lost” bags that never make it to the ship. Sometimes
you have got to grease their palms with cash. It’s a small price to pay for having your clothing and toiletries aboard for your cruise.

To avoid long lines at the end of your cruise
check out your ending invoice on your account. Check for any errors and resolve them as soon as possible. There is no sense adding the stress of standing in line to pay your final tab after you just had a relaxing vacation.

Take a few rubber bands with you to wrap around your wallet. The rubber will “grab” onto your clothing. This makes it very difficult for a pickpocket to part with your wallet without you feeling it.

Kid Stuff:

If you are traveling with babies or toddlers
paper throwaway bibs are perfect for protecting your child from stains and messes at meal times
thus prolonging the wear of their clothing.

Bring a collapsible stroller for your young child. The cruise ship is a happening place and before long you will hear the strains of “I’m tired! Carry me!” This is exhausting to parents. With a stroller
you can just pop your kid inside and roll on.

Pack a few portable
self contained snacks for your child like peanut butter or cheese crackers. These will come in handy and are much cheaper than buying some once you are cruising or at port.

Odds and Ends:

Throw inside your suitcase a few of those annoying plastic shopping bags that you usually get from the grocery store. These are handy for storing dirty clothing.

If you have an inside cabin
take a nightlight with you. Darkness is not fun when you are in a strange room. No sense running into walls or stubbing your toe if you can avoid it. Little maglight keychain flash lights are handy too.

Bring a little first aid kits for those minor emergencies. Wet wipes are handy too for those instance were a sink isn’t handy.

There are literally hundreds of cruise tips that can save the sanity of newbie travelers. Think of those little shortcuts or ideas that you use at home. Decide if they are adaptable to the cruise ship. The less you have to worry about
the more relaxed you will be after your cruise.

Although the origin of the pirate flag is unknown
it is generally thought that it was invented to strike fear in the hearts and minds of their enemies. The pirate flag
or “Jolly Roger” as it often called
was likely intended to scare their potential victims into a speedy surrender.

The origins of the name “Jolly Roger” are difficult to establish. It is likely derived from the fact that devil was often referred to as “Old Roger”
and so the flag suggested the wrath of the devil. The classic skull and bones design was also often used in the Captain’s log to indicate the death of a sailor. This flag was an important part of the pirate’s armory
and is considered one of the earliest forms of psychological warfare.

In popular legend
it seems that every pirate flag consisted of a skull above two crossed bones. This was generally not the case
as the Captain and his crew often wanted their own flag. While it is true that most pirate flags had the skull and crossbones on them
they often had other images such as skeletons
swords
hourglasses
goblets
and hearts.

One of the most famous pirates was “Black Bart”
otherwise known as Bartholomew Roberts. He was originally from Wales
and in his 4 year career captured well over 400 ships and accumulated incredible wealth. It is said that he was a brilliant
fearless
and innovative seaman. His fleet scoured the seas looking for treasure
and he inspired fear and dread in governments and citizens alike.

The governments of the Caribbean islands of Barbados and Martinique were keen to see an end to his seafaring activities. In 1720
“Black Bart” captured the governor of Martinique and hung him from the mast of his ship. The flag he would fly represented the personal vendetta he had against the islands and its inhabitants. His flag consisted of an image of a man (presumably Bart) with a flaming sword in hand
standing with a skull under each foot. The letters “ABH” and “AMH” were inscribed under the skulls
and stood for “A Bahamian’s Head” and “A Martinicans Head”.

Be afraid. Be very afraid.