Cruising has been forever popular for Australians. Especially to the Pacific Islands. I hadn't cruised for well over 15yrs so decided to update myself and I boarded the Pacific Jewel for my 9 night cruise.
Cruising caters for all age groups, it is great for families, groups of friends, single travellers, and the older generation. It is definitely as they say a floating resort on the water but with so much more. With entertainment sea days to keep you occupied, with a colourful array of shows put on by the senior staff, guest speakers, musicals, acrobatic, laser light shows, musicals, comedy as well as guests getting involved with all the onboard activities available.
Each afternoon your receive delivered to your cabin the daily newspaper which outlines all the activities going around the ship for the following day. As there are so many areas around the ship it is easy to follow what is happening on different levels so you can make your choice which event/activity you may wish to participate in.
Or I found the Jewel great for it's large open deck plans to relax, catch a movie on the big screen or catch up with friends or enjoy the sun and read a book.
The Spa and Gym facilities are fantastic. So for the fitness fanatics or simply to work off those extra calories from the gourmet amount of food onboard it has everything you need including personal trainers. The spa is world class and also offers acupuncture. It is at the front of the ship and they views of the everlasting ocean is serene whilst you relax and enjoy.
Now nothing is so abundant than the food onboard. All meals are included onboard so a huge bonus as all your major expenditure is already catered for. With the choice of Plantation Restaurant which serves full buffet style menu for breakfast,lunch or dinner which changes daily and has a huge variety. or you have the choice of the Waterfront Restaurant which you get the full waiter service and a a-lacarte menu. Open for all meals though very popular and you must book for the evening meal. The cruise wouldn't be complete with a dining experience at the exclusive Luke Mangan Salt Grill Restaurant. Only open for Dinner and there is surcharge for $40pp or $20for a child. But Definately worth the experience of fine dining and the surcharge is well worth it considering the expense if you actually went to one of his restaurants outside of cruising. The other option for Dinner is La Luna Restaurant which is an 8 course banquet of Asian Chinese food.$20 surcharge applies.
The islands you visit are abundant in the activities you can choose from. Get in early on your cruise personaliser to view these tours and pre-book the ones you definitely want to make sure you don't miss out. Or they can be done aboard with the tours desk. Cascade Waterfalls in Port Vila is definitely beautiful and worth the visit. In Lifou and Isle of Pines I actually paid a local guide to take me on an hours drive around the island. They either had small vans or their personal cars to take you and was a great way to see some of the island away from just the mooring point.
There is also a Casino on board with table games such as roulette, blackjack and poker or many many pokies to chose from.
The kids club are fantastic for families, and cater for all ages. Wether for just an hour to give you time out or for hours to keep them entertained. From the younger to the under 18years each have their own areas to so age groups are close to each other.
don't forget the ondeck pool and spa tubs. On hot days this is a great way to cool off.
I had a balcony cabin and would highly recommend it to everyone. I really enjoyed having my own outdoor space I could retreat to for peace and quiet and not be cooped up indoors or on deck with everyone else.
Overall Cruising is an experience. Everyone should try it and many return year after year once they have.
I have also inspected the Pacific Pearl and Arcadia. Call me today for your cruising experience to begin your adventure today. Group rates if you get a bunch of friends together :)