And it must be nearly 30 years since I set sail on the high seas for my first taste of cruising. Back then, I imagined it would be a one-off: a quick look at life on board Cunard’s QEII. But my little family - husband Jim and daughter Emma - were almost instantly bitten by the bug. We simply loved it.
Since then, we have seen so much of the world from on board all manner of ships. The possibilities now seem endless. There is an extraordinary choice of cruise lines, destinations, activities and experiences - both on board and ashore.
When I think about the world of cruising these days, it reminds me of the magic of gazing into a kaleidoscope when I was a child. The colours and patterns change with every twist of the scope; the combinations appear infinite and each one has its own beauty.
30 years ago, I thought it was mind-boggling to see a ballroom on board and even a small swimming pool. Today, you can go surfing, try ice skating, ride the dodgems, climb a massive wall or shop ‘till you drop. And that’s really just for starters.
As we’ve grown older, our preferred option is to enjoy the quiet spaces on board, the fine dining and even finer wine, the wonderful range of excursions and, of course, the utter pampering of being looked after day and night.
And these days, the standard of theatre entertainment is outstanding. The stages have become state of the art, and the acts ever more daring - jaw-dropping high trapezes and breathtaking acrobatics. But with one turn of the kaleidoscope, you will also find high-quality lectures and detailed guides to your next port of call.
And, of course, it’s the destinations that make a cruise so very rewarding. I still marvel at being able to visit four or five countries in a single week. And all I had to do was unpack once and then be waited on hand and foot!
Look into that kaleidoscope: is that Australia I see before me? Or the dazzling colours of the Caribbean? Another twist and the crystals turn brilliantly white as Antarctica comes into view. And now, there’s just the narrowest corridor through the pattern: it must be the Panama Canal.
All of these fantastic places have come to visit Jim and me as we’ve sailed around the world, loving every minute and making many a friend along the way.
If you’re reading this blog, the chances are I’m preaching to the converted. So I’m sure you’ll agree that we really are the lucky ones: we’ve cracked the code to some of the best holidays you could ever wish to enjoy. And, with every year, that kaleidoscope comes up with new patterns and fresh adventures.
So, well done, ROL Cruise. Here’s to the next 30 years!
