We are looking at planning a Mediterranean cruise for our September honeymoon and have a few questions. We are in our mid-30's and are looking for a cruise with a mix of relaxation, sightseeing and romance. Some of the itineraries seem to have a new port everyday, which we don't want to miss, but on the other hand, we're looking for some R&R after the wedding. We only have 10-11 days. We were looking at Celebrity's Constellation possibly. Any thoughts or suggestions?

Hi!

You don't have to do the shore excursion with the cruise lines - there are actually a lot of people who just get off the ship and go for a quiet lunch in a romantic cafe, wander through the town and go shopping. That is a great way to get to know each port and the day-to-day life of the people who live there. Also, there are shorter shore excursions that offer a sightseeing tour/overview of the port and its area and after a couple of hours, you are back to the ship for a relaxed lunch and quiet afternoon. You can tailor your cruise to be as full or as relaxed and quiet, but still see the ports, as you want.

Have a great day!
Julia Elzie
E-mail: [email protected]

Thanks for your thoughts. That sounds perfect for us!

You are going to LOVE the ship. Last year we cruised in the Infinity (twin ship) and it was so beautiful everytime we got off, we kept taking more and more pictures OF THE SHIP! My husband and I had an outside stateroom with veranda and just relaxed there a lot eating pastries, sipping wine and just enjoying the view and the company, of course!. Room service is included, so we kept ordering finger food, pastries and even dinner (3 nights) and the food they bring to your stateroom for dinner is the SAME one they serve at the main restaurant. You will enjoy your trip a whole lot!

Another cruiseline that you might want to consider is Radisson (www.rssc.com). This is classified as a luxury line and a definite step above Celebrity, Princess and HAL. Their brand new ship Voyager is sailing the Mediterranean this summer/fall and we're already booked. Each cabin is a suite with a minimum of 300sq.ft. and ALL have a balcony. Another nice feature is the fabulous space ratio. At full capacity it holds only 700 passengers yet it is the same size as the ships that hold 1300. Also, all liquor is included which will save you lots of $$. They've had some excellent prices too. We're on a 7 day sailing from Venice to Rome and in a new port each day. Since the towns are so close together most Mediterranean cruises will be in port each day but it is your choice whether you get off the ship or not. Sometimes we've just gotten off for 1/2 day...it's all your choice. Happy Honeymooning!

I almost forgot to mention that on Radisson ships, all gratuities are included. The only extras you will pay for are your shore excursions.