Aquatic Sightseeing – The Fantasy
Many who take cruises choose trips that might involve some sightseeing of aquatic sea life – such as whales and dolphins. The thought of spending a number of days, sailing along, anticipating when and what type of aquatic life you may see can be a very relaxing thought. The ocean is much different than the land on which we live, which is why the allure of its occupants is so great. By going on a cruise, passengers are hoping to see not only aquatic life, but that life forms in action in their own natural surroundings. Cruise ads use pictures of aquatic animals for this very reason.
Image: Gray Line
Aquatic Sightseeing – The Reality
In actuality, chances are pretty good that you won’t be seeing any type of aquatic life on your cruise. In most cruise ads, that are geared towards sightseeing of the ocean, will put a disclaimer that passenger may not actually see any aquatic life. This is just to make sure it is understood is can at times be a pretty good long shot. The cruise may take place where the aquatic animals are known to live, and even appear, but if think you are going to get a marvelous show, then you are better off cutting your losses and take a vacation to Sea World. At least there you know you are going to get the show you are expecting and paid for.
Image: Travel + Leisure
Crew And Staff Life – The Fantasy
Who hasn’t at one time or another in their lives, thought about possibly working aboard a cruise ship? This fantasy is right up there with running off and joining a circus. With the 1980’s tv series, the Love Boat, we saw how wonderful the very idea of being a cruise ship employee could possibly be. The idea of working in such luxury would make anyone consider the thought. And not to mention the ability to travel to exotic and foreign ports of call, have romantic moonlit nights, and all while at the same time making a living. When you think of it this way, working on a cruise ship can pretty much be a dream come true for many.
Image: YouTube
Crew And Staff Life – The Reality
Now, if you thought the cabin bedrooms of the actual passengers were way more than a letdown, wait until you get a look at the accommodations for the staff. You will most assuredly get a slap in the face as to the actual reality of being a member of the cruise ships staff. Keep in mind, they are staff, and as such generally, do not have the “luxuries” of the paying passengers. But, one would think they would at least not be crammed into bunking quarters like sardines in a can. And, one would not expect them to be jammed several people into a cabin. I guess when you are “sailing” on the cruise ships dime, there are going to be a few corners cut here and there.
Image: YouTube