Sometimes It Pays to Take a Newer Ship

Today I received an e-mail from some happy folks just back from a Caribbean cruise aboard Norwegian Epic.

I always appreciate a brief note providing feedback on cruises, and of course I like the positive ones best of all. 

"Cruise was great -- noticeably better food quality from last year NCL. Or maybe each ship is different. And entertainment was top-notch!"

Often, voyages aboard the latest state-of-the-art ships cost more than those on other ships, even within the same cruise line.

It's not exclusively about the onboard hardscape, however. Usually, it comes down to the specific sailing's crew members and your fellow guests.

Obviously, we all enjoy being surrounded by happy people, and crew members are not exceptions.

It is not unusual for the best crew members to sign up for the most enticing itineraries or the newest ships.

When guests enjoy the meals, shows and ambiance of the ship, it leaves them smiling and pleased to be on board. Add great ports, and you have an amazing cruise vacation experience.

That's what we hope to achieve every time.

And that's why I share travel experiences hoping to entice you to enjoy amazing vacations as part of a well-rounded life.

Let's face it. If you can afford to spend more, you will generally get a better cruise experience, with the ideal perhaps being something like Viking Ocean Cruises.

But let there be no mistake: there are great cruise experiences awaiting you in all price ranges, as our weekly specials regularly attest.