People, on a cruise for the first time, are often interested in the size of the ship. But a ship is not necessarily more luxurious or comfortable based on its size. A ship with large passenger capacities but inadequate facilities will hardly result in a pleasant voyage. Therefore, size is not the only factor when assessing the quality of life on board a cruise liner. It is also important to look at the ship's facilities – its services, the quality of its dining and entertainment, as well as its itinerary and the sightseeing facilities available.

A Hassle-free Journey

Cruising as an enjoyable form of travel has been available in Europe for more than a century. As a "moving castle on the sea", cruise ships flaunt their luxury as well as their 360 degree sea views. In fact, while other travellers bustle about with their luggage, if you are on board a cruise ship, you enjoy a wide range of entertainment, exempted from the trouble of packing up, switching flights and moving hotels. With every new day, a leisurely on-shore sightseeing tour awaits you, before you return on board for dinner, the evening's entertainment performances as well as a merry drink or two.

Though it is actively expanding to passengers in the different age groups, people who are financially better of and who have the time to enjoy life, such as retirees, are still the premium guests in the cruise industry. There was a time when packages with just air and ship tickets were available from travel agencies. But many have now introduced sightseeing tours, together with tour escorts who take care of you, helping to overcome both the stress of an unknown place and language barriers. With the first berth at the Kai Tak cruise terminal expected to commence operation in 2013, it will be able to accommodate the world's largest cruise liners, which will set off another wave in cruise travel in the future.

A Wide Array of Selections

To make your journey both enjoyable and fulfilling, make sure you learn about the different types of cruises available. According to Anson Law, a Senior Consultant who specialises in holiday cruises at Jetours, there are three major categories – British, American and European.

The British version is in the traditional aristocratic style, where the steward makes all the arrangements and the captain wears formal evening dress at dinner. It emphasises personal and intimate services while facilities are a secondary consideration. American style cruises are more casual. They focus on relaxation with facilities on board providing the major selling point. The European style strikes a balance between the two.

Choose a cruise to match the best climate at the destination is Mr Law's main tip. In spring, you can look at exploring the Middle East. Summer is the best time for a tour of the Mediterranean countries or the Caribbean. If you love natural scenery, Alaska from around May to August comes highly recommended as a once-in-a-lifetime place to visit. As autumn approaches, Asian countries such as Japan and Korea provide an excellent destination, as travellers get to see the trees change colour in preparation for the winter ahead. In winter, destinations in the southern hemisphere, from the Antarctic and South America to Australia and New Zealand, offer the ideal choice.

So as a retiree you can make the most of your cruise by selecting the itineraries, services and time of year that will suit you the most, coupled with your own personal preferences and requirements.

Special thanks to Anson Law, Senior Consultant, Jetours