Love the idea of travelling by boat, but not so keen on large cruise liners? If you answered yes, then small ship adventure cruising is something to consider! With an estimated 27.2 million people expected to set sail in 2018, this booming industry is evolving to appeal to a more destination focussed traveller without skimping on comfort.
So what is adventure cruising? Here are five reasons why it should be at the top of your travel bucket list.
1. Unique
It’s simple maths: Big ships = tourist hot spots, small ships = untouched destinations. While the big-hitting tourist attractions are incredible to visit by sea, adventure cruising takes you on the path less travelled for an exclusive experience. How does, dropping anchor off the coast of an uninhabited Greek island and swimming directly off the side of the boat sound? If this is music to your ears, then adventure cruising is for you!
2. Sustainable
As the world moves towards becoming more eco-aware, sustainable alternatives for almost all industries are popping up left, right and centre. With international tourist arrivals expected to reach 1.8 billion globally by 2030, more and more travel providers are looking at ways to minimise their impact on natural resources and local communities. As a great alternative to large cruise liners that leave a large carbon footprint, adventure cruise ships only cater to a maximum of 50 travellers. Peregrine Adventures confirms this by saying,
“Small ships are a greener alternative to traditional cruises – they have a positive impact on local communities and each departure has been carbon offset by a range of renewable energy initiatives. These trips leave smaller footprints and don’t overwhelm small port towns with thousands of travellers all at once.”
3. Stress-free
One of the main attractions of cruising is how little planning is involved once you’ve booked. The joy of traversing multiple destinations without needing to continually unpack your luggage is something even the staunchest anti-cruisers can’t disagree with. Adventure cruising is no different and combines your love for action-fuelled travel with the hassle-free benefits of cruising. With smaller passenger counts and vessels that can dock right in the port, you can wave farewell to taxing queues and tenders and ahoy to fun! Win, win!
4. Transformational
The Cruise Lines International Association predicts that transformational travel is going to be a top cruising trend in 2018. As an evolution of the current experience based model, this hot new trend goes hand-in-hand with adventure cruising. Perfect for travellers who are looking for an experience that will leave them feeling enriched, improved or accomplished by the end of their travels. Transform your lifestyle with health and fitness cruises, embrace the thrill-seeker within or pay-it back with volunteering opportunities – whatever floats your boat (so to speak).
5. Social
Love to socialise while on holidays? Small ship cruising is the perfect way to connect with like-minded travellers. With fewer people and more excursions, activities and day trips, adventure cruises are a great way to meet new people. Unlike big liners who cater to the masses, the tailored nature of adventure cruises means that you and your fellow travellers can really get to know each other and create lasting friendships. Whether travelling in groups, pairs or by yourself, adventure cruising means you will never be wanting for good company!
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