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Fitness on the Rivers: Emerald Waterways vs. AmaWaterways

By
John Roberts
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Fitness on the Rivers: Emerald Waterways vs. AmaWaterways
Emerald Waterways offers yoga classes as part of its EmeraldACTIVE program.

River cruises are known for offering a romantic vibe as you sail through Europe and other exotic destinations while eating plenty of fine food and savoring free-flowing wines. The chances for historical and cultural exploration also makes these voyages enriching experiences. 

River cruises are growing in popularity, too. And as cruise lines seek to entice a broader variety of travelers, they have begun offering new fitness options and other activities. 

Two lines are leading the way with their innovative menus of exciting and active choices for passengers. AmaWaterways features a Wellness Program and Emerald Waterways offers its EmeraldACTIVE choices. 

Let’s take a look to see how these two cruise wellness programs compare and why you might enjoy them. 

Fitness on the Rivers: Emerald Waterways vs. AmaWaterways | 21
AmaWaterways features a Wellness Host on its river ships.

Dedicated Staff 

An Activity Manager leads the way for Emerald Waterways’ EmeraldACTIVE program. This position serves as a kind of co-cruise director. The Activity Manager is a versatile performer who runs an entertainment and wellness-focused activities throughout your cruise. Emerald Waterways ditched the traditional piano player in the lounge in favor of a staffer who can offer a broader range of entertainment options. The line’s Activity Managers, for example, all are singers and dancers who give cabaret performances a couple of times during each cruise.  

AmaWaterways’ Wellness Program features Wellness Hosts who design the fitness activities on and off the ship. The Wellness Hosts are professional trainers who lead classes, outings, and sessions for cruisers looking to keep up with their workouts or for those looking to try something new.  

 The fitness-focused river cruise programs offer a range of exercise classes during each sailing.
The fitness-focused river cruise programs offer a range of exercise classes during each sailing.

The Fitness Stuff 

Emerald Waterways’ EmeraldACTIVE program offers a selection of exercise classes throughout the cruise. You might get a morning stretch or yoga class. In the afternoon, you could see a Pilates or aqua aerobics class on the schedule. Also, depending on the itinerary, the Activity Manager might organize an interesting short hike or post-lunch walk in a port stop that offers a good opportunity for these activities.  

AmaWaterways’ Wellness Program has a much wider range of workout options and more frequent classes. The Wellness Host offers five to seven activities each day that you can join, including spin classes (on AmaMagna), resistance training, yoga, Pilates, morning stretch, post-lunch walks on deck and jogging opportunities in port. 

The AmaWaterways Wellness Hosts are also available for personal training sessions.  

Both cruise lines carry a fleet of bicycles for use during your voyage.
Both cruise lines carry a fleet of bicycles for use during your voyage.

Facilities and Equipment 

Emerald Waterways’ ships have small gyms. These small rooms have a set of light dumbbells, a recumbent bike, and a rowing machine. The Activity Manager doesn’t hold classes in there. Instead, you do morning stretch, yoga and aqua aerobics at the indoor pool area. This is a wonderfully large space.  

Other wellness-focused activities like golf putting, soft petanque and Pilates are held on the Sun Deck. 

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AmaWaterways has treadmills on its ships, and space is a little bit larger, so some classes like abs and core-focused sessions can be held in the fitness centers. The line’s AmaMagna ship that sails on the Danube  River has a big gym as part of its Zen Wellness Studio. This facility has a studio space for classes, and spin classes are held on the deck space just outside.  

Fitness classes also are held on the Sun Deck on all AmaWaterways ships. 

Both Emerald Waterways and AmaWaterways carry bikes onboard. Passengers can join guided biking excursions or sign them out for personal use. 

Fitness on the Rivers: Emerald Waterways vs. AmaWaterways | 21
The EmeraldACTIVE program offers fun games like soft petanque and golf putting competitions, as well as dance classes and lounge entertainment.

Number of Ways to Play 

Emerald Waterways’ EmeraldACTIVE program takes it beyond fitness for a full-fledged lineup of fun stuff to keep cruisers busy and entertained throughout each day of their cruise. It’s about offering variety. 

Aside from the fitness classes, the Activity Manager leads games, contests, and entertainment. Soft petanque and golf putting contests take place on the Sun Deck. In the lounge, you can join afternoon dance classes or trivia sessions. Evenings bring the cabaret shows featuring popular music of the Rat Pack or Neil Diamond, for examples, or karaoke or disco nights with DJ music. 

AmaWaterways’ Wellness Program is firmly about exercise and wellness options. So, the activities and sessions we’ve already mentioned are the large bulk of what is available on the daily program. But the Wellness Hosts also may offer line dancing classes and could give a talk on wellness. They are always available to give advice or instruction to help you keep up with any new practices or workouts when you get back home after your cruise. 

Fitness on the Rivers: Emerald Waterways vs. AmaWaterways | 21
Activity Manager Harry Jordan sings during his cabaret show on Emerald Destiny.

Bottom Line 

The EmeraldACTIVE program is ideal for cruisers seeking a great mix of options to keep them entertained on their daily cruise program. It’s a good fit for travelers who are young and young at heart. The EmeraldACTIVE program is a welcome departure from the traditional river cruise offerings that leave you with little to do on the ship other than watch the scenery (which is great, of course), read a book or take a nap during your afternoons of sailing.  

Nighttime also comes alive in a different way with this program, as passengers get to play together and know each other in a more energetic way as led by the Activity Manager. The workouts are fairly gentle and accessible to all ages and abilities. 

The AmaWaterways’ Wellness Program is a fantastic choice for the growing batch of travelers who are becoming more intensely focused on their fitness and living a healthy lifestyle. The workouts can be quite challenging (there are variations offered for all abilities), and the program offers cruisers a chance to easily keep up with their regimen while enjoying their vacations.  

The program also is a great entryway for the workout-curious to have access to the needed guidance and expertise that can jump-start their new lifestyle. The dining program also incorporates fresh healthy choices marked on the menus for all meals.

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The Best Cruise Vacation Tips for Senior Citizens

By
Brooke Faulkner
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Image- Royal Caribbean International

There’s nothing like a few days out at sea. You can enjoy the smell and sound of the ocean, the sun, and a large range of activities that will give your mind a break from day-to-day life. As a senior, cruises are the perfect vacation for you to do as much or as little relaxing as you want. You can play games, watch performances, and socialize throughout each day — and when you get tired of that, you can simply lay out and enjoy the sun.

Cruises are popular among seniors, who often have more time to relax but are less willing to deal with the stress that comes with traveling. However, like any other traveling experience, it helps to know a few tips and tricks. By planning and preparing carefully for your time out at sea, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip fully, ready to take on anything the cruise throws your way. 

Choose Your Cruise Line Wisely

Not all cruises are made equal. Some cruises provide an experience that targets young adults who are looking to party and have a good time, and others are meant for families with young children. As a senior, you’re probably more likely to enjoy the cruises that are cultivated for a more sophisticated crowd. These often include finer dining options, classical performances, and offer a better chance for you to socialize with people who have similar interests to yours. 

As you select your cruise, you should also keep your destination close in mind. Some cruises go to Europe, while others hit exotic areas of South America. Upon reaching port, some cruise lines offer excursions to other nearby cities. While this can provide exciting opportunities to hit the fun towns you’ve been eager to visit, you should always be careful and follow the buddy system. Most cruises take guests to safe areas, but if you roam too far, you might get lost. 

Some cities are actually safer overall than they get credit for. While various cities, especially in Central and South America, have been dangerous in the past, this is often a product of temporary social or political turmoil. Cities like Cancun, Mexico, have been popular drug cartel areas in the past, using tourists looking for drugs as a source of revenue. However, Cancun is now far less dangerous than several cities in the U.S. where murder rates are high. 

Avoid the Crowds

Cruise ships carry hundreds to thousands of passengers on board, which means it can get a little crowded at certain points during the cruise. At the beginning of the cruise, passengers will usually do one of two things: They either flock to the dining room to get a taste of the menu, or they’ll begin touring the ship. As a senior, you probably don’t want to be surrounded by tons of people eagerly jostling one way or the other. Therefore, it’s best to avoid these busy times.

If you want to tour the ship as soon as you get in, you might want to start at the top and work your way down since most people do the opposite. Similarly, it may be best to avoid the dining room right as you board and give it a minute to clear out before seeing what tasty meals are on the menu. 

Socialize Safely

Many people who book cruises do so in order to socialize with others for several days. Many cruises offer open bars where people can meet and mingle, while others randomly sit people together at tables to dine. The various activities throughout the cruise ship also allow seniors to meet other people who have similar interests. This provides opportunities for people to meet and chat over the course of the cruise.

While much of this socializing is amiable and easygoing, some seniors may be looking for romance on these trips. With the help of modern dating apps like Tinder, Grindr, and Bumble, meeting people is now easier than it’s ever been. However, sudden sexual encounters with people you’re unfamiliar with can pose health issues if you’re not being safe. These apps are a factor for the increase in STDs today. Therefore, it’s important to take precautionary measures to avoid contracting an STD during your cruise. 

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Further, risky behavior with strangers always leaves individuals vulnerable to potential sexual assault and injury — sometimes with fatal consequences. If an individual dies on a cruise, their family members may be left with some legal questions, and it may be difficult to recoup their loss in regards to pain and suffering. 

If this frightens you away from the concept of taking a cruise vacation, remember that cruise providers are generally absolutely invested in protecting their customers. Because cruise lines may be held liable for the sexual assault carried out by a passenger, they typically implement security measures to prevent it from occurring. Nevertheless, it still happens, and it’s unwise to let your guard down even while on vacation. 

Cruises are a relaxing and exhilarating vacation option for senior citizens looking to wind down on the ocean for a few days. They offer tons of exciting and interactive activities, as well as plenty of downtime for those looking to relax. If you’re getting ready for a cruise, consider these tips to make your time on the sea truly pleasant and unforgettable.

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9 Reasons a Hawaii Cruise with UnCruise Adventures is So Special

By
John Roberts
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Sunset aboard UnCruise Adventures.
We had beautiful sunsets every night during our Hawaii cruise with UnCruise Adventures.

Hawaii is a picture of paradise, and a cruise voyage offers a special way to see the islands.  

For travelers who are also nature-lovers and like to stay active, UnCruise Adventures features water-intensive expedition cruises that sail from Molokai on the 36-passenger Safari Explorer. These cruises offer something quite different than the traditional sailings from major cruise lines that visit the Hawaiian Islands. 

Cruise Addicts joined for a voyage on UnCruise Adventures’ new summer itinerary and discovered nine things that make these cruises unique. 

fresh poi being prepared
We were able to watch fresh poi being prepared before giving it a taste while visiting Halawa Valley on Molokai.

Time on Molokai 

UnCruise is the lone cruise line to visit this pristine island of just more than 7,000 residents. Molokai is the fifth–largest island in the chain and has one hotel, Hotel Molokai, which serves as the hospitality center for UnCruise. Voyages sail roundtrip from the harbor on Molokai, and passengers get to experience time hiking in the Halawa Valley and visiting with residents living off the grid there in what is the oldest continuously settled region of the entire island chain. This is where the Polynesians first came to the islands and settled around 650 AD. 

green sea turtles in a quiet lagoon
Daily activities take you to remote locations to enjoy wild Hawaii. We spotted these green sea turtles in a quiet lagoon.
Kona, Hawaii
The gorgeous coastline of the Big Island.

Wild Hawaii 

Aside from serene Molokai, UnCruise’s sailings take passengers to other places that show Hawaii at its most Hawaiian. We spent time ashore on Lanai to visit a secluded beach and the sleepy historic old town of Lanai City. We also ventured to Lahaina Town on Maui’s far northeast coast and had a few days anchored offshore of the Big Island and Maui to explore the lagoons and bays with no one else except our fellow cruise companions. 

UnCruise Safari Explorer
These views are available just steps from your bed.
UnCruise Adventures Safari Explorer
Safari Explorer caries just 36 passengers.

Small-Ship Intimacy 

The cruises typically sail with 20 to 30 passengers, so you don’t deal with crowds. The ship also is free of any frills, and the entertainment is simply good conversation with like-minded travelers or views of blue skies, gorgeous sunsets or the frequent bow-riding dolphin pod. Days are filled with activities, and meals include lively conversation discussing all that you do or see. Your cruise fare includes drinks, so the bar and lounge area also are popular gathering spots at the end of the night for enrichment talks and as a way to wind down with new friends. 

Hotel manager Jose and bar tender Jessica
Hotel manager Jose and bar tender Jessica kept passengers smiling all week with friendly service.
Every day delivered us a special adventure
Every day delivered us a special adventure in this tropical paradise among new friends.

Sailing with Family 

Passengers and crew get to know each other quickly and form great bonds. You are out and about each day with your expedition leaders, fellow passengers and other crew who also get to participate in the daily activities. UnCruise has a crew of about 15 people onboard, and the person who serves your meal might also clean your cabin and be out kayaking or snorkeling with you, too. It’s a brilliant time among friendly people who love the outdoors and really care about nature.  

We're all suited up and ready for our night snorkel session
We’re all suited up and ready for our night snorkel session.

Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays 

One of the truly one-of-a-kind experiences is the chance to go out for a night-time snorkel to see manta rays. The excursion has you get into a wet suit and drop in at a noted feeding place where these gentle giants come to feed on plankton. They estimate a 50-50 chance that you’ll get to see them (we didn’t), but you do get to witness feeding schools of fish, and we even enjoyed a rare glimpse of the endangered Hawaiian monk seal during our session. Guides lead the way as you simply hang on to a modified surfboard outfitted with lights to draw the plankton. We hovered at the surface as hundreds of fish swirled around us, and the ethereal scene was made complete by dozens of scuba divers below releasing clouds of bubbles to the surface. 

It's all about the water sports on the summer itinerary in Hawaii.
It’s all about the water sports on the summer itinerary in Hawaii.
UnCruise Adventure's Safari Explorer
Safari Explorer features a marina on the back of the ship that serves as a launching area for daily excursions.

True Expedition 

Activities include near-daily snorkeling sessions, frequent kayaking, skiff tours, wooden canoe paddling in Kona, hiking outings and cultural tours and free time in the towns and villages. Sailing can be rough as you cross the Maui channel back and forth between Maui and the Island of Hawaii. Cabins are small and austere. The in-room TV has a documentary running on a loop and a DVD player (the ship has a large library of movies).  

Meals are prepared made to order every day.
Meals are prepared made to order every day.
Cookies and other tasty pastries
Cookies and other tasty pastries were available every afternoon in the lounge.

Authentic Cuisine 

Food is the third prong of the experience that makes the UnCruise journey so incredible. You have the activities, the people and the meals, which are made from scratch daily using locally and sustainably sourced ingredients. I regularly heard from passengers how they have never had better food any of their previous trips, and many of us regularly ordered a “half and half” meal, choosing half sizes of two menu options because they both sounded so good. The chef and crew also were great in accommodating diets and special requests. Breads and pastries are made fresh onboard by a pastry chef and serve as a highlight. (Don’t skip the afternoon cookie hour.)  

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The cuisine also touches on true Hawaiian meals, with a chance to eat freshly made poi on the Halawa Valley tour and an end-of-cruise pa’ina (traditional Hawaiian feast) on Molokai. 

pod of dolphins under UnCruise Adventure's Ship
We were visited almost daily by pods of dolphins.
paddling a traditional wooden canoe in Kona
Passengers can try their hands at paddling a traditional wooden canoe in Kona.
You can jump right in
You can jump right in for a swim from the ship’s B Deck, some 20 feet above the water.
blue waters of Hawaii
You never get tired of being out in the sunshine and on the blue waters of Hawaii.

A Weeklong Excursion 

While large cruise ships offer a large range of excursions to pick from as you visit larger cities in Hawaii, an UnCruise Adventures sailing is essentially a weeklong excursion itself. The ship has a swim step that you can jump off to splash around in the blue waters at the back of the ship. Many passengers also had a blast jumping from the second deck, plunging themselves into the waters from more than 20 feet up.  

Light Packing 

I mean really light. I thought I had nailed it by coming with my swim trunks, couple pair of shorts, swim shirt, a few athletic shirts and short-sleeve shirts. I also had two pair of shoes and my socks and underwear. That still was probably too much. Barefoot is the standard footwear choice onboard, even at dinner, so I had too many socks and an extra pair of shoes that I didn’t really need. Also, toiletries and reef–safe sunscreen are provided. So, this really is a low-key and hassle-free vacation.

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Cruising and Other Fun Things to do in Porto

By
John Shallo
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Porto, Portugal old town skyline from across the Douro River.

Porto is a coastal city of Portugal, and the mercantile city with business and trade is a World Heritage site. The historic city is famed for its stately bridges and port wines as well as the narrow-cobbled streets lined with charming houses and cafes.

Are you planning a trip to Porto? Well, if you really want to experience an authentic vacation and enjoy the rich and varied heritage of the city, then take a tour with locals from Withlocals. With a well-planned and guided trip under an experienced and knowledgeable guide, you can sure make the most out of your Porto trip and see so much of the city in just a few days.

Spend some time along the Porto’s riverside

Get ready for picturesque sights and great fun as you head for the piazza. This is where the tourists and locals mingle and enjoy the riverside walk. The boat ride will offer a perfect shot of the iconic Luís I Bridge. You will find bars and restaurants around every corner.

Visit the Port houses

Port is famous for its Port wine, and if you are a wine lover, you will find no shortage of Port houses along the banks of the river. Some of the famous names include Ramos Pintos, Vasconcello’s, Quinta do Noval, Calem, Kopke, Sandeman, and more.

A great day at Serralves Museum & Villa

Take a tour of Serralves Museum & Villa that was built in the early 20th century. The elegant villa is considered to be an Art Deco property, and its luxurious interiors are done by the famous designers like Charles Siclis. The museum & villa look perfect with well-planned terraced grounds and regimented lawns and pergolas.

Enjoy traditional Portuguese music

Fado, the Portuguese style of music is immensely popular among the locals as well as the tourists. This is your chance to blend with the local culture and enjoy the traditional music at popular shows or local restaurants and bars.

Walk over the Luís I Bridge

The Luís I Bridge is an iconic and industrial symbol for Porto. The twin-level metal bridge was made by the German engineer Théophile Seyrig, and it was in 1886 that the arched bridge was open to public. Cross the rocky banks of the Douro and get a bird’s eye view of the Cais da Ribeira from the bridge.

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A trip to Douro Valley

Ask your local tour guide to plan a trip to the Douro Valley. The region is famous for grape farms and harvesting. Spend a whole day here to enjoy the beautiful valley and do not miss the chance to savor the authentic and rustic Portuguese cuisine. One of the must do if you are visiting Portugal.

Spend some time at Church of São Francisco

The Church of São Francisco was completed in 1425 and is major tourist attractions. It is the last Gothic monument in Porto. The interiors which were redone in 1500s to the 1700s carry the most lavish gilded woodwork. The ornate portal located in the main façade boasts of a lovely rose window. There is intricate decoration and carving on the old Gothic vaults, walls, and pillars.

Take a Douro River Cruise

The two-hour boat ride down the Douro river is a popular activity among the tourists. Catch the boat from the waterfront in Pinhao and take a tour of the valley from a different perspective. Enjoy the sights of Port production facilities as well as the terraced hillside covered with vineyards.

A realign time at Praça da Liberdade

Head for Santo Ildefonso to spend some quality time at Praça da Liberdade. You will love the grand open spaces of this square that belongs to the 18th century but carries a new urban layout. The equestrian statue of Pedro I of Brazil stands there to remind of a truly democratic reformer. The square is lined with designer boutiques, great cafes, and civic buildings.

Enjoy a Francesinha Sandwich

Francesinha Sandwich is named after a French emigrant and originated in the 60s here. Made with bread, the sandwich is stuffed with fresh sausage, ham, and steak and then covered with melted cheese. A tomato- and beer-based gravy is poured on top, and the sandwich is then served with French fries and a local beer. You must taste the Francesinha Sandwich at Cafe Santiago before your leave Porto.

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The Best Poker on the High Seas: Your Guide to Cruise Ship Poker

By
John Shallo
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Playing Poker
Playing Poker

While we all love the idea of a slightly seedy basement poker game being played by crusty old men chomping on cigars, drinking beers and chewing the fat, the games that really capture the imagination are the ones with the glitz and the glamour – the sort of game where you wouldn’t be surprised to see Daniel Craig rock up in a tux.

In the popular imagination it’s the high-end casinos that play home to these glamorous games, but while they do host some of the greats at venues like The Bellagio in Las Vegas or The Venetian in Macau, one sometimes overlooked place to play a hand or two of Texas Hold ‘Em is on a boat – both the luxury yachts and palatial cruise ships. 

Your Guide to Cruise Ship Poker
Photo by Clifford Photos

One very obvious advantage to these games is that if you live (or are holidaying in) a country or state that doesn’t allow gambling or poker, all a boat has to do is sail a few miles off shore and voila, the game becomes legal. It’s fairly common, in fact, for US states where gambling isn’t legal to have day cruises that exist specifically for their passengers to gamble in international waters, free of on-land legislation. Hop on, wait an hour or so for the boat to get away from the coast and you’re off to the races.

Arguably the best games, however, are against the more luxurious backdrop of holiday cruise ships that breeze about on the open ocean, occasionally calling into port for an hour or two on a beautiful island or stretch of coast. Many of the big ships have casinos and poker is growing in popularity there. They range from big money expert games (big name players like Chris Moneymaker and Greg Raymer have been found on some of them) to much more easygoing games that would be great for a beginner (if that’s you, get a handle on your poker slang before you set sail). So, whichever end of the spectrum you fall on, here are some of the best games going on the high seas.

Norwegian Prima
Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Cruise Line

A popular line that includes entertainment ranging from mega star tribute acts to spectacular circus performances and, of course, its own onboard casino. It’s a Vegas-themed affair, with slots, blackjack, roulette and craps alongside the poker. It also has a Sea Players Club that gets you perks like free drinks while you play and once a year there’s the annual Poker Challenge for the best players to try their hands at.

This year they’re hosting their sixth annual Norwegian Poker Challenge aboard the Norwegian Getaway. It’s a seven-day cruise with a $400,000 main event and five additional tournaments, as well as daily cash events. 2009 World Series of Poker Main Event champion and 2018 Main Event Final player Joe Cada will be there, as will Loni Harwood.

MSC Seashore Liberty Plaza
This 13 ft. high replica of the Statue of Liberty at the heart of the casino and a newly designed expansive retail and entertainment area, aptly named Times Square.

Card Player Cruises

As the name suggests, this is a cruise service that has one goal in mind – draw in poker enthusiasts. In 2017 they celebrated 25 years in the business. In that time, they’d hosted upwards of 175 poker cruises with more than 50,000 players on board. They say that’s more poker cruises than all the other poker cruise companies combined, though we haven’t had time to count!

They offer all sorts of events that run to far flung, beautiful destinations, like a seven-night tour of the Western Caribbean on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas. It includes a $150 NLH Ladies only event, a $350 main event for everyone and port stops in Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel.

Your Guide to Cruise Ship Poker
The Best Poker on the High Seas: Your Guide to Cruise Ship Poker 42

World Poker Showdown

This one’s for the slightly more serious player, but still a fun and relaxed time whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the tables or not. These are the cruises where famous players like Greg Raymer and Chris Moneymaker have played a few hands. Tournaments range from manageable $100 buy-ins to $2,500 if you think you’re up to playing in the cruise’s championship event.

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World Poker Tour

The World Poker Tour cruise is one for proper poker aficionados, but you won’t have to bet the farm to get involved. There will be cast members from the WPT on board who will be doing meet and greets to sign autographs and take photos, but it also has professional WPT dealers and tables and onboard escorts to make sure you get a slick poker experience.

This year’s event sails on September 1st and runs to the 9th, taking in the Mediterranean. There will be a full complement of cash games including the likes of No-Limit Hold ‘Em, Pot-Limit Omaha, Omaha Hi/Lo 8-Or-Better and more and games at limits from $1-$2 to $2-$5, depending on the demand.

The Best Poker on the High Seas: Your Guide to Cruise Ship Poker | 21
Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is one of the brands that’s a bit more forward-looking on their technology. Most of their ships have a Fortune casino on board, but they also have tables covering almost every type of poker game. The icing on the cake, however, is that they even have an app that you can download to play casino games anywhere on board while you’re out in international waters.

Mardi Gras
Pool Deck

Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines is popular for any number of reasons right now, but among them is its poker offering. It offers everything from three card tables to high tech Texas Hold ‘Em, with a mixture of nice and low minimum bets and tables for the high rollers out there that offer juicy high stakes, as well as onboard tournaments for those wanting to make a big experience of their time at the table.

They also boast other table games including roulette, craps, blackjack and more, with slot machines for anyone fancying a nice laid-back experience. If you’re going to be spending a fair bit of time at the tables, they also offer membership to the Carnival Player’s Club which gives you points that can be traded for bonuses like free drinks while you play.

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Virtual Online Cruises And How They Can Help You Choose The Right Cruise

By
John Shallo
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The internet and its widespread use have changed the way we receive news, the way we communicate, and the least but not least the way we entertain ourselves. Nowadays there are many ways to get entertained online and many of these activities can be done on a mobile devices, as well as on a desktop computer, so it doesn’t really matter where you are located, as long as you have a stable connection on your device. 

Whether you like playing games, watching movies and videos, listening to music, the list is almost endless. For instance, there’s a variety of different online bingo games you can play, watch the latest movie trailers on YouTube, or read some interesting articles on your favourite online magazine. 

What Are Virtual Cruises

They say that the internet is our window to the world. You can discover various parts of the world, you can study ancient civilisations and their ways without leaving your room. All of that has little or no applicability to cruises, you might think. After all, you can’t cruise the world on the internet. Interestingly, this is both true and false. Yes, you can cruise the world online and no, that’s not actually cruising the world. Don’t worry, we’ll expand on that and give you a bit of clarity on the matter. 

There are virtual cruises that allow you to explore new and magical coasts and various seas without having to move your eyes away from the screen. It makes no sense to leave for a cruise that doesn’t last at least a week, some would even argue that cruises should last at least two weeks, but with virtual cruises you get a chance to get away from your everyday worries for 15 minutes, or an hour.

The best part is that you get to choose the destinations and the length of your cruise and it won’t cost you a single penny. Now, of course, a virtual cruise is just that – it is not an actual cruise. Let’s see what virtual cruises are and how they can help you decide which would be the best cruise for you.

Create Your Own Virtual Cruises

There are few cruise companies that offer virtual cruises to their potential customers. These virtual cruises are actually recordings of the places that are included in the actual cruises in the order in which they are visited on the actual cruise. Of course, if the real cruise lasts two weeks, the virtual cruise wouldn’t last that long. 

You will not get seasick when watching the video, but it will give you a clearer perspective of what you can expect. And even if the cruise you’re thinking of booking doesn’t feature a virtual video version, you can create your own virtual cruise.

You may wonder how, but it is actually very simple. Check all the locations that are included in the cruise map and then look for videos of those locations taken from sea/the riverside, or better yet, use Google Maps and discover the locations directly. This will give you a much better perspective of the sites and locations that you will have a chance to visit if you choose that particular cruise.

That’s very useful, because you might not be satisfied with all locations that are included in the cruise. Let’s say that you’re thinking of going on a European cruise that takes you from the Spanish coast, via the French coastline up to the Italian coast. Now, going on a virtual cruise might actually make you realise that you don’t particularly fancy the Spanish coast, and the French coast is so and so in your opinion, whereas on the other hand you’d really love to go on a cruise on the Italian coastline. 

In that case, you will go though the list of available cruises again and pick an Italian cruise that might be shorter and cheaper as it has fewer destinations, or go on a cruse across the whole Italian coastline, where you’ll have a chance to visit more locations compared to the original cruise that you considered.

Choosing The Right Cruise

We explained how a virtual cruise can help you choose, now let’s have a look at the criteria that you should take in consideration when choosing a cruise. It is a topic that is frequently discussed by cruise aficionados, but it is always good to bear these things in mind when choosing a cruise. 

The first thing that you should consider is the price, i.e. whether it is in accordance with your budget. Unfortunately, our desires can be grand, and our budget a tad more limited, so we always have to make sure that we can actually afford to go on the cruise that we’d like. 

If you have a clear picture how much you’re willing to spend, you will be able to narrow down your options and that makes things a lot easier. 

Next, you’ll need to decide on a location, and the options are limitless here. Some people prefer to choose a continent or a region first and then go through the possible options, whereas others prefer to pick the type of cruise they’d like to go on and then choose the location based on that. 

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Your age will play a role too, some cruises are more suitable for the elderly, whereas others are aimed at younger individuals. Your marital status, i.e. whether you’re going with a partner or alone and whether you’re taking kids with you is another issue that will affect your options. 

But regardless how many boxes you tick, there will always be plenty of options, so perhaps the best advice is – once you set your criteria and know your range, simply follow your heart and choose the location that looks most appealing to you and you’re travel companions if you’re going with company.

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Exploring the Most Beautiful Places on Earth

By
John Shallo
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From lush rainforests to vast deserts, the earth is home to awe-inspiring landscapes and vistas, many of which have to be experienced first-hand to truly understand how incredible they are. However, with so many outstanding areas of natural beauty to behold around the globe, it can be a challenge deciding where to explore first. Do you opt for hiking the world’s highest peaks, or do you jump in the sea to discover the underwater world? Fortunately, to help you decide, we look at three of the most beautiful places you simply must see at least once.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania 

One for the avid hikers and adventurers, Mount Kilimanjaro is certainly a favorite spot for those looking for something a little different on their next getaway. This beautiful peak is located in Tanzania, and while it’s not the trickiest mountain to conquer, it does test your endurance, so training beforehand is crucial. What makes Mount Kilimanjaro one of the most beautiful places on earth is that it’s the highest free-standing mountain, meaning the view you experience once you reach the top is unlike any other in the world. What’s more, you will pass through a tropical forest, moorland, and alpine desert before reaching the summit. For those wishing to tackle this challenge for themselves, choosing to travel with experts in this type of getaway is vital. Tanzania Odyssey is one such dedicated company which can help you plan your expedition with ease. 

Angel Falls, Venezuela

Niagara Falls may come to mind first when thinking of beautiful waterfalls, but it’s Angel Falls which holds the record for being the world’s highest waterfall. Located in the UNESCO-protected Canaima National Park, Venezuela, this natural wonder features a breathtaking cascade of 3,211-feet into a canyon known as ‘Devil’s Canyon.’ This means Angel Falls is, in fact, 19 times higher than its sister site, Niagara Falls. While Angel Falls is without a doubt a beautiful marvel to behold, Canaima National Park shouldn’t merely be a through route to it. The national park is home to a vast variety of exotic wildlife and stunning vistas; the wildlife you may see (although it’s not guaranteed you will) includes giant otters, ocelots, jaguar, giant anteater, and giant armadillo. Each of these is now an endangered species, and the park works tirelessly to protect them. 

Disko Bay, Greenland

Moving from exotic, lush forest to vast ice marvels, Disko Bay, Greenland, is a must-see to understand quite how diverse our planet is. This bay is an untouched island, which is naturally one of the most beautiful places on earth. It features towering icebergs which pictures don’t do justice, as well as the chance to witness humpback whales breaching the water. When exploring Disko Bay, the principal town of Ilulissat (which literally means iceberg) should be on your list. This is due to its neighbor, Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO site you can’t miss. Ilulissat Icefjord is home to the Jakobshavn Isbræ glacier, the most productive iceberg in the Northern Hemisphere, flowing at an outstanding rate of 20–35 m (66–115 ft) per day. This productivity results in around 20 billion tons of iceberg calved off and passing out of the fjord every year, which truly is a marvel to see.

The ABCs of Cruise Travel Insurance

By
John Shallo
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U.S. Passport
A valid U.S. Passport is essential to travel to the Bahamas when not on a closed-loop cruise.

A cruise is a great way to relax, do a bit of traveling, and enjoy the amenities of a large ship. But they’re not all endless buffets, docking day trips, and luxury—things can go wrong on cruises. It may sound far-fetched, but you would be wise to take out travel insurance for when the unexpected happens. Cruises can be a fantastic vacation but they are even better if you protect yourself with travel insurance. You’ll be able to have the time of your life without worrying about what might happen. Here are a few things that could go wrong and what you can do to make sure you are covered for them. 

Things Can Go Wrong

According to the Association of British Insurers, 153,000 people had to claim medical treatment on holiday in 2018. Especially when you consider that many people who go on cruises are older, there are medical risks that come with traveling in the seas. 

Injuring yourself or falling ill could not only lead to a hospital visit and a hefty bill. Luckily if it isn’t severe and the hospital confirms your ability to rejoin the ship, additional travel expenses will be insured. There are also insurance policies offering travel coverage that are not age restrictive. You should always have insurance for the sake of your health, but also for anything else that could go wrong during your voyage. 

In addition to your health, you could miss a port departure. Many cruises require that you take a flight to a port where the ship docks. If your flight is delayed, you may end up missing the boat and could need to meet up with the ship at the next stop. When you take out insurance for this, the additional expenses will be covered. Furthermore, if you’ve missed out on a trip that you booked due to becoming ill, you can claim money back on the tickets. 

When there are unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, timetable restrictions, problems with the ship, and other issues, these may result in a port being missed on the itinerary. The specialists at the site MoneyPug, which is known for being a platform to find cheap travel insurance, some policies will offer compensation for the money spent on shore. 

Since a cruise is typically longer than a typical holiday, people sometimes bring a lot of baggage on board. You can ask your insurance company about increased baggage coverage and avoid worrying about your possessions. 

Travel Insurance for a Cruise

While there are many travel insurance policies to choose from, you should look into companies and policies to find the best coverage for you and your trip. There are also different levels of insurance to choose from. Some even offer up to £50,000 or around $60,000 (USD) per person for cancellation and other expenses. 

When you are taking a cruise, you need to be careful that your travel insurance covers it. As it turns out, just 56 percent of single and 59 percent of annual policies include coverage for a cruise. Taking a cruise typically requires specialised insurance to be covered. These will insure you from when you purchase the cruise tickets to the entire time you’re gone. It should include all the countries you visit and excursions you take. This can be bought as an add-on or as part of your policy. 

Travel insurance can save you thousands of pounds when something goes awry. You should keep insurance high on your list. It not only will reimburse you if you lose out on something, it will give you the peace of mind you need to relax. 

Cruises can be both relaxing and fun, but you want to make sure that your health, bags, transit costs, and more are covered by a reputable insurance company. With a policy that works for you and your trip, you’ll have an even better time. 

Wherever you are going and for however long you’ll be there, getting cruise travel insurance will help you immensely should something go wrong. Cruises have been canceled for mechanical failures. If you don’t cover yourself for these unforeseen circumstances, you may have to pay money out of pocket. Don’t let this happen to you. Be prepared and take the trip of a lifetime!

Best Theme Cruises for Wine Lovers

By
John Roberts
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With so many well-regarded wine-growing regions around the world, wine tourism seems to be gaining popularity each year. A cruise is a wonderful way to sail to some of the top wine destinations around the world, on river cruises in Germany, France and Portugal or on ocean voyages to Australia, New Zealand, Spain, Croatia, Latin America and the California coast, for examples. 

A theme cruise that focuses on wine and food is a fabulous way for wine lovers (oenophiles) to savor the unique flavors of the world, while onboard and ashore. These sailings marry exceptional cuisine and the wines created in the regions to which you are sailing. The best part: The experience is fully immersive, with experts leading the way on tastings and tours. 

Here are Cruise Addicts’ top theme cruises to tempt wine aficionados. 

Windstar Cruises 

The small-ship luxury line offers a series of James Beard Foundation Culinary cruises, sailing itineraries from Rome to Barcelona and Venice to Rome in 2019. 

The James Beard Foundation celebrates chefs, writers and restaurateurs who advance the culinary arts, and Windstar’s James Beard theme cruises bring onboard expert chefs and sommeliers to create a foodie’s dream, with chef demos, special beverage pairings, and market tours. You can learn new cooking techniques as you watch demos of chef-designed recipes on every sailing.  

Cruisers can taste wine from a storied vineyard, then visit the same vineyard at a port stop on the itinerary. Sommeliers discuss and compare the wines to others in the region during tasting sessions. 

UnCruise Adventures 

Expedition small-ship line UnCruise Adventures features a “Rivers of Wine and Culinary” itinerary on the Columbia and Snake rivers in Washington and Oregon, two states with renowned wineries. These cruises sail round trip from Portland, Oregon, and visits Astoria and Hood River, Oregon, as well as the Willamette Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area) and Washington’s Red Mountain AVA, among other destinations. 

The cruise experience includes multiple winery visits, dozens of varietals to try, an onboard sommelier and farm-to-table cooking demonstrations and specially curated wine and meal pairings.    

Avalon Waterways 

The river cruise line hits the French waterways with its “Burgundy and Provence for Wine Lovers” cruises on Avalon Poetry II on the Saone and Rhone Rivers in the heart of France’s wine country. You’ll visit Macon, Lyon, Tournon, Avignon and Arles as a certified Master of Wine helps you wine and dine in style, providing perfect pairings for every delicacy from cheese to chocolate. On shore during excursions, you can explore ancient cellars of wine masters, winemakers and merchants from these regions. 

Avalon also offers “Danube Dreams for Wine Lovers” itineraries between Budapest and Deggendorf.  

AmaWaterways 

AmaWaterways offers an extensive series of “In Celebration of Wine” cruises with sailings on the great waterways of Europe. These voyages are hosted by wine experts who help to showcase the acclaimed wine regions along the Danube, Douro, Moselle, Rhine, Rhone and Seine rivers.  

The program includes lectures and excursions to historic vineyards and wine cellars. Cruisers also will delight in tastings and fine wine pairings with gourmet cuisine, of course. 

Oceania Cruises 

This luxury line features a series of wine-oriented sailings, including its Food and Wine Trails voyages on Oceania Sirena throughout 2019 visiting Mediterranean destinations like Italy, Portugal, Spain and Morocco. 

In 2020, Oceania Riviera is home to the “Passport to the Mediterranean,” a 10-day cruise sailing June 29 to July 9. The theme cruise highlights four wineries from the Dry Creek Valley AVA in Sonoma Wine Country: Comstock Wines, Seghesio Family Vineyards, Sbragia Family Vineyards and Trattore Farms. 

The varieties are paired with culinary creations from Executive Culinary Director Jacques Pepin as cruisers enjoy tastings and visit spots like Venice, Montenegro, Croatia and Greece. 

Cunard 

The line’s “Voyage du Vin” sails September 6 to 20 on a roundtrip voyage from Southampton, England, on Queen Victoria. The cruise takes you to Vigo, Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona, Spain, Cannes, France, Gibraltar, and La Spezia, Italy, to explore some of the best Old World wine regions. The renowned Cunard Insights program offers an array of expertise on varieties of fine wine. Cruisers also get the opportunity to join the Cunard Wine Academy. Enjoy daily tastings and talks from guest wine experts. 

Azamara 

The luxury three-ship line regularly offers cruise itineraries that focus on wine appreciation. Azamara has “Wine and Romance” sailings from Southampton to Lisbon on Azamara Journey (August 27, 2019) and from Barcelona to Southampton on Azamara Quest (May 26, 2020). You also might like the “Wine and Cuisine” itinerary from Southampton to Barcelona on Azamara Quest (September 10, 2020).  

Ponant 

The French line offers a series of “Gastronomy at Sea” voyages that aim to help cruisers discover the cultures of the world through food and wine. You can find sailings that reach countries like Chile, Panama, Peru, Turkey, Greece, Portugal and France to enjoy tastings ashore at celebrated wine cellars and chateaus and fine French cuisine and wine pairings onboard. 

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Crystal Cruises 

Crystal Cruises features wine-themed sailings on its luxury river and ocean ships. The line’s “Danube Dreams and Discoveries” wine cruise sets sail on Crystal Ravel on October 6, 2019, with a roundtrip itinerary from Vienna. You also can choose from a series of “Wine and Food Festival” sailings on the ocean ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. These journeys give foodies and wine lovers the chance to sail with renowned chefs, such as Nobu, and indulge in fine food and regional varietals from around the world.   

Regent Seven Seas 

The all-inclusive luxury line’s “Spotlight on Wine” sailings are hosted by wine experts and sommeliers who guide cruisers on a voyage through itineraries in rich wine regions like California or Spain. The program includes hosted dinners, wine tastings, tours and meet-and-greets.

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American Queen Steamboat Company’s Inaugural 2020 Season on the American Countess is Now Open for Sales

By
John Shallo
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Rendering of the American Countess
Rendering of the American Countess

American Queen Steamboat Company has announced the opening of sales for the 2020 season of its fourth vessel, the American Countess. As the newest paddlewheeler on U.S. rivers, the American Countess is already showing record-breaking interest. While still under transformation, the boat will officially debut for her inaugural voyage on April 5, 2020 and will travel from New Orleans to Memphis. To explore upcoming sailings, please find the full schedule here.

Rendering of the American Countess' Grand Lobby
Rendering of the American Countess’ Grand Lobby

Built using the existing hull of the Kanesville Queen, a former gaming vessel built in 1995, the American Countess was cut in two as part of her planned lengthening, with the addition of a 60-foot mid-body section. The American Countess will offer many of the same exciting heartland and deep South itineraries as her sisters – the American Queen and American Duchess, and will be sailing from April 2020 to January 2021, with additional sailing seasons to be announced.

“This opening of sales milestone is the next step towards her grand reveal in April 2020,” shared American Queen Steamboat Company EVP of Hotel Operations and New Construction David William Kelly. “On behalf of the entire AQSC team, we are thrilled to see the interest in her inaugural season, and we know that it will be nothing short of what you’ve come to expect and enjoy when sailing with our fleet.”

Currently under construction, the American Countess will accommodate 245-passengers over the course of six- to 15-day itineraries, including her own “Mighty Mississippi” cruise. The new boat will feature four decks including a Sun Deck, and 123 comfortable, inviting staterooms in four categories. Guests aboard will enjoy cabins that feature a sleek, modern design, offering guests the perfect place to relax and recharge in between delicious dining, premier shore excursions, Broadway-caliber performances and more.

The unveiling of the American Countess follows the recent addition of the M/V Victory I and M/V Victory II to the American Queen Steamboat Company fleet under the Victory Cruise Lines name, alongside the flagship American Queen, the American Duchess, a 166-guest boutique paddlewheeler sailing the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers and the American Empress in the Pacific Northwest.

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For additional information and reservations on the American Countess, please contact the American Queen Steamboat Company at 888-749-5280, visit www.AmericanQueenSteamboatCompany.com or call a professional travel agent.

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