Cruisin' not Snoozin'; Modern Cruise Ships have everything.

Huge investment in large, state of the art ships (14 more will be launched this year), provide for the 1.5 million Brits that will take a cruise holiday by the end of the year. Sure, a cruise will still be first choice for those wanting peace and quiet to soak up the sun and enjoy good food and drink. But the last ten years has seen a huge rise in the cruise lines provision of family and activity breaks.

The autumn in this country sees many seeking the winter sun in places like the Canaries and the Caribbean, but many more will want short breaks in more local destinations. The Norway ffiords can be spectacular in winter and an Arctic tour means never having to go to bed in the summer. If you choose for the first time to take a cruise in one of the new, large floating resorts, be prepared for a surprise. Owners are now providing a mind-blowing array of activities and entertainments. Together with swimming pools, you could find climbing walls, ice rinks and bowling alleys. And if you think your body deserves a little pampering you may find a quiet and relaxing spa away from the crowd.

Evenings bring along a huge variety of shows, some big names too. Firework displays and demonstrations ensure no-one in the family complains of being bored. Children, always a chore to keep interested and occupied on a holiday, are catered for with dedicated carers involving the kids in games and discos. Electronic games are available for those missing their computers.

Food, too, has changed with the increase in family catering. The images of over-dressed groups sitting stiffly at the silver-service table, being chaperoned by the ship's officers and sipping champagne can still be found to a degree, depending on the line. Gala nights give the ladies a chance to put on their sparkling evening dresses and the men their posh suits. Meals are now less structured and less regimented in sitting down times. Without sticking my head out too far I would say that food is excellent in variety and type. Buffets and informal restaurants serve food at most times of the day and night and, of course, drinks.

Normally, when you book up a Cruise, you will be paying for everything up front except maybe services that are rarely included, like spa time, hairdressing etc. Drinks are normally added to your bill too. Inclusive cruising offers undoubted value for money and what other vacation package gives you the chance to visit many destinations - but only unpacking your luggage once.

In conclusion, modern, large cruise liners offer comfort, variety of activity, food and entertainment and leaves to your own choice the level of participation you feel you need. Mature people, looking for a quiet time and waiting for the sun to sink below the yardarm can still find their ideal, but with the draw of things to do on board, few settle for a deckchair. Check out what's available - you'll be pleasantly surprised.

With most Cruise Lines if any traveler in your stateroom is 55 years or older by the date the cruise departs, special rates and additional savings may apply for all travelers in your party. Any traveler who qualifies for this special rate will be required to show a government-issued form of identification (passport, or birth certificate and driver's license) at the pier to validate his/her age prior to boarding the cruise ship. When booking through BsureTravel.com, Costa Cruise Lines senior age is 60 years or older; all others are 55 or older.

Author: Brian Thomas is webmaster for BsureTravel.com www.bsuretravel.com/cruises - He also writes travel articles for Bsure Travel.