16th June 2017: I recently enjoyed a cruise on Magellan, a Cruise & Maritime Voyages' ship, which will be cruising out of Bristol in 2018. Here are my top tips, from what clothes to pack to drinks packages, to get the most out of your cruise on board this fantastic ship.
Comfortable Cabins
Starting with a comfortable cabin of your choice, your luggage is waiting for you upon arrival as porterage both to and from the cabin is included. Rooms range from Royal Suites with walk in wardrobes and jacuzzi baths to inside cabins which include everything you need at a well sized 135 sq ft.
Fantastic Food
You needn’t worry about food as both taste and style are catered for on board. Choose from formal or informal dining at a range of restaurants; whatever you choose, you’ll be impressed. Dining times and table sizes can be requested at the time of booking. Drinks are sadly not included. However, there are a range of drinks packages available and if you did decide against one, drinks on board are very reasonably priced with the average price for a spirit just £3.50 and bottles of house wine from £14.
If you get a little peckish during the day, the Magellan offers afternoon tea and pizza served until late afternoon and a choice of nibbles are also available for those who enjoy a late night snack. Tea, coffee and water stations are available 24/7 and new to Magellan, tea and coffee stations have also been included in a number of cabins with all cabins featuring them by the end of the year.
Leisure Facilities
Your time at leisure on board Magellan will be very well spent with a fully equipped gym as well as its very own wellness spa. While treatments at the spa come as an additional cost, it’s a small price to pay for ultimate relaxation on your trip. Pool towels, hair dryers and safety deposit boxes are free of charge and found in your cabin. There are also laundry facilities on board for a small supplement.
Internet is readily available on board for a small charge which can go towards on board WiFi or if you’d prefer, the use of the internet café.
Entertainment
On board entertainment is also included on board so you can enjoy performances from the ship’s entertainers or perhaps you’d prefer a classical interlude with the ship’s resident pianist or violinist? Sit back, relax and let the staff entertain you.
Not only this, but the Magellan regularly welcomes aboard guest speakers, comedians and performers to wow its guests. Often they will be found on cruises of five nights or more. The Magellan also gives those on board the opportunity to learn new skills as arts and crafts sessions on selected cruises are included. There could however be a moderate charge for materials depending on the craft.
Better yet, on cruises of six nights or more you’ll get the opportunity to be a part of the Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail parties; the perfect opportunity to meet new friends and a great way to say farewell at the end of your cruise too.
Excursions
There’s no need to worry about port taxes either as they too are included on a Magellan cruise. On shore excursions however, aren’t included in the price but, with so many amazing excursions to choose from, they’re definitely worth it!
Other things to factor in when booking your cruise on board Magellan is that travel insurance, medical expenses and port parking aren’t included, so don’t forget to budget for them before booking.
What to Wear
Finding the perfect outfit to wear on board a cruise can fill many people with dread. For most of the cruise, smart/casual clothing was acceptable. During the day, the general attitude on board is very relaxed and you can wear pretty much what you like (within reason). A pair of walking shows, smart pumps or general sensible shoes are essential for shore visits as terrain could be uneven.
For the Captain’s Party (on sailings five days or longer) or sail away/deck parties including welcome and farewell drinks, smart/casual is perfectly acceptable as each are very relaxed environments. Here, jeans/smart trousers with a cardigan or casual jumper are just some of the casual clothing you’ll find many people wear on deck.
In the evenings, guests will follow a slightly more formal style of dress so cocktail dresses, dinner suits and smart jackets with chinos are welcomed.