Sail away with me honey, I put my heart in your hands. Sail away with me honey now, now...

If any singer wants to serenade us with those words, and mean them, we’d jump at the chance.

To head on cruise and sail away from it all is a dream holiday idea for so many of us, but if you haven’t boarded an amazing holiday boat to date, what’s it all about?

We’ve paired up with our pals at Thomas Cook to share some top tips on cruising through life… or at least a week or two.

Dine on to your heart content…

Now, you don't want to get to the point where you have to be rolled off the boat or anything, but if you pay for all-inclusive on a cruise – use it! Take your chance to sample the appetisers, entrées and desserts you like the look of, knowing all the while you can go again if being adventurous doesn't pay off!

I scream, You scream, We all scream for…

Cruise lines charge for branded ice-creams like Ben & Jerry's, Haagen Daz etc, but there's always a free version! Find it… enjoy it…

Put a cork in it

A bottle of wine usually works out cheaper than the equivalent number of options. If you don't finish it at dinner, no problem! Cruise ship waiters can mark the bottle with your room number and save it for another night, even for dinner in another onboard venue.

Smart storage

The cabin designers knew what they were doing when they arranged the space you’re staying in, so do a little exploring and you may find extra storage under the bed or couch, inside an ottoman, or behind a mirror that might make your stay easier and more comfortable, and prevent an onset of cabin fever.

Feeling green?

If the motion of the ocean is taking some getting used to, don't worry. Before you go looking for a medical solution, try the age-old seafarers trick of green apples and bland crackers. Bring seasickness meds on your holiday with your packed items, just as a failsafe.

Pamper Party Onboard

Cruise ship spas often offer discounts for first-day and sea-day treatments. Stop by the spa or check your daily newsletters to find out about deals. Also remember that often use of the showers, saunas and stream rooms not located in fancy thermal suites are free to use. Showering in the spa can often mean access to more clean towels, fancy toiletries and bigger shower stalls -- and prevents fights over who gets cabin bathroom access first!

Seeing the sights

Do your research and find out in detail about the ports of call you’ll be hitting well in advance of your holiday. Decide on the places you really want to see and how to make the most of your short time in each location. You can make plans for the places you’re excited about, or plan your chill-out days on board for the places you’re not so interested in.  

 

To book your cruise with Thomas Cook, click here.