If you’re not familiar with the term “specialty cruise,” you’re not alone. While the concept has been gaining in popularity, it is not as well- known as a standard Caribbean cruise. A specialty cruise can be anything from a special type of ship to a special theme for the week on a traditional ship. There are hundreds to choose from! If you’re still not sure what constitutes a specialty cruise here are a few
1. Barefoot cruising
This may be the oldest type of specialty cruise. Imagine the opposite of a conventional cruise – that’s barefoot cruising! The concept is simple. A small, sailing vessel like a yacht or barge, is your home for a set period of time. Passengers are often limited to 100 or even fewer passengers.
Those on-board are encouraged to participate in the day-to-day workings of the ship. This can range from helping man the sails to working in the kitchen. You can choose to do as little or as much as you want. Be sure to get all the details and expectations up front so you’ll know if this is good fit for you.
2. Hobby cruises
Many women (and some men) are participating in Cropping Cruises that are sponsored by scrapbooking magazines and craft experts, these events have a variety of activities for learning, cropping, laughing and, most importantly, scrapbooking a ton of pages. If you enjoy the hobby, need to get some pages done and can get some friends to join you, this trip may become a regular vacation for
3. Religious Affiliation cruises
While families of all types are welcome on traditional cruise lines, there are specialty cruises geared towards creating a positive and unique environment for families who seek a vacation in line with their religious beliefs. This could vary from an all-kosher food menu, no alcohol on board, or religiously inspired crafts and activities. Often times the port stops and excursions also follow the same standards as the on-board experience.
4. Adventure travel cruising
Are you a thrill seeker? An adventure travel cruise is an exciting alternative to the standard destination. Destinations are typically off the beaten path to places like the Amazon, Galapagos Islands, and even to Antarctica. These are very specialized and can be hard to find. But with a little research you will be on your way to exploring places and experiences very few people ever get.
5. River cruises
How about a cruise that’s not on the ocean? Cruises along the Mississippi River as well as through the Great Lakes are popular alternatives to open-water cruises. European river cruises have been a favorite offering for many people over the years. You can sail Norway’s fjords, up the Danube, or through historic waterways all over the continent. These cruises take far fewer on board and have more limited.
If a run of the mill cruise is just not your style, consider a specialty cruise. Whatever your interest there’s sure to be several different cruise options that will appeal to you.
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Stacie Connerty lives in Atlanta, Georgia with three teenagers. She has an insatiable love of travel, food and style & fashion. Stacie also loves all things tech, beauty, DIY, home decor, fitness, pet entertaining, and family.
Fun ideas! I never even considered a specialty cruise, but so many of them sound exciting. I think sailing down the Nile River would make for the ultimate adventure!
Specialty cruises sound pretty cool. I think an adventure cruise would be really fun.
I have always wanted to go on a cruise. I think the adventure cruise would be my first pick, but a river cruise sounds fun too!
These cruises sound so fun! Thanks for sharing these suggestions! I hope we can try one of these specialty cruises soon!
I think it would be a nice choice for people who are looking for something different. It’s really nice that you’re sharing more information about the different types of specialty cruises. I’ve never heard of some of these.
This is my first time hearing the term but I’m familiar with the kinds. I think it’s a good option for those who are tired of the usual cruise or would like to try something different.
I had no idea there were so many different kinds of cruising, I would totally love the adventure and river cruise….. I think. I have only been on one cruise and it wasn’t a great experience but I’m ready to try again!
I had not heard of many of these types of cruises. I would love to experience a barefoot cruise!
I guess I didn’t realize there were so many types! I would love to try a few more kinds than I already have.
I would love to go on an adventure cruise. With little tiny kids it’s harder to do so!
I have read about River Cruises. I would love to try that sometime. I think River Cruises would be a good choice for first-timers on a cruise.
Oh nice! Thanks for sharing these great tips! I have been thinking about doing a crusie
This Travel Blogger is still a Cruise Virgin! I like the instant gratification that comes with flying and getting where I am going quickly, maybe I need a cruise in my life to help me slow down a bit! 🙂
Who knew there were so many options? The hobby cruise featuring scrapbooking would be so perfect for my mom! I hope she will take her sister and have some fun!