Introduced in Europe with great fanfare in 2005 by Stelios (like celebrities, he goes by one name), the business model for easyCruise was easily the quirkiest endeavour to hit the cruise industry. Stelios, known as a "serial" entrepreneur and the guiding force behind low-fare air carrier easyJet, has designed a cross between a traditional cruise ship and a ferry.

Aimed at youthful travelers interested in island-hopping and sampling the local nightlife, itineraries are scheduled to arrive in port mid-morning, stay until the partying winds down, and then move on to the next destination. Rather than book an entire voyage, independent minded passengers are offered the flexibility to book as few as three nights, embarking and departing in any scheduled port along the way.

A hint that easyCruise may be heading along a more traditional path is that fares are now available in packages consisting of 3, 4, and 7 nights. However, easyCruise is still able to offer rock-bottom pricing by eliminating all onboard frills and nearly all necessities. Passengers are encouraged to dine ashore since no meals are included in the cruise fare and on-board meal service is limited. You'll also pay for all cabin services, including cleaning, fresh towels, and bed linens. Fellow passengers on easyCruise are generally in their 20s, 30s, and 40s and don't seem to mind making their own beds.

Food

The best dining is still found ashore when in port. On board, an upgraded restaurant supplements the diner-quality snacks, sandwiches, and dessert items that have always been available. Still, think Starbucks or Ruby Tuesday in terms of dining. The best offerings are often found at breakfast. You pay for all food on board; there are no meal plans.

Fitness & Recreation

A small gym has exercise equipment, but you will be more likely to burn off calories walking in ports and swimming when you head for the beach. There's no pool, but there is a popular hot tub.

Your Shipmates

The plan was to appeal to active adults in their 20s and 30s. In reality, depending on the season and itinerary, passenger ages might lean toward the 40-something and older set. Most passengers hail from Great Britain or North America, with Brits usually in the majority.

Dress Code

This is as informal as cruising can get. The only provision is that you wear clothing.

Service

While it's adequate for food and beverages, you'll have to carry your own bags and make your bed yourself. You can pay for maid service, as well as clean sheets and towels.

Tipping

Tip for dining and drinks as you would at any shoreside bar or restaurant. Other gratuities are completely up to you, but since there is little service, you'll have few opportunities to tip.

easyCruise (UK) Ltd.
Phone: 0906/292-9000
www.easycruise.com