New to cruise? So was I - Here's what I learned on my first sailing

Until recently I was firmly in the ‘cruising isn’t for me’ camp. I pictured ships as floating resorts packed to the rafters with people, rigid dining times, fancy pants dress codes and not enough freedom – being ‘stuck’ on a ship with nowhere to go. I just wasn’t sure it was my kind of holiday.

That was before I sailed on Norwegian Aqua in March. So I wasn’t with my family, I spent three nights with some wonderful work colleagues who were very easy to be around – it completely changed how I see cruising.

Before stepping on board, here’s what I honestly thought: - Would I feel trapped? The idea of being in the middle of the sea felt restrictive - Is it only for older people? - Would I be told what to do and where to be all the time? I’d heard of formal nights, fixed meal times and assigned seating – none of which seemed flexible, or enjoyable.

What actually happened on board Norwegian Aqua… - There were no set dining times, no dress codes and complete freedom to plan your day how you want. I ate when I felt like it, wore what made me feel comfy and never felt tied to a schedule. - It was like a floating city with amazing restaurants, live shows, bars, quiet lounges, a spa and even a waterslide. Something for every mood and every moment.

When you break it down, accommodation, meals, entertainment and travel between destinations, cruising offers exceptional value for money, often better than a land based holiday. And think of all those destinations you get to see enroute – and you only have to unpack once, your hotel just moves with you!

If you have dismissed cruising as ‘not your thing’ I get it! But cruising has changed, and it’s now more flexible, stylish and varied than ever before.

Fun facts…. 71% of individuals who have never cruised before would consider doing so in the future 82% of cruisers will cruise again 12% of cruisers, cruise twice a year 10% of cruisers cruise 3-5 times a year