The only virgin in a sea of pro’s!

I’ve tried my fair share of new and exciting things in my time, yet despite years of experience in travel, I’ve not yet had the opportunity to embark on a cruise personally… so not one to dip my toes gently into the water, this week I am launching myself head-first into a festive Dublin party cruise with my new cruise-buddies from Cruise.co.uk; all of whom are absolute pro’s having amassed countless sea-days on their travels!

Q. So how does a cruising-virgin prepare for a 3 night party cruise with a bunch of pro’s? 

A. She asks her cruising pals loads of questions and does her research!

We are setting sail with Cruise & Maritime Voyages; renowned for a more relaxed and leisurely-style cruising experience, and a great choice for taster-cruising as they offer a variety of itineraries from eleven departure ports throughout the UK.

Our seasonal voyage takes us from the historic port of Bristol to the vibrant city of Dublin, aboard the elegant Marco Polo.

Ships like the Marco Polo offer a more relaxed and intimate cruising experience due to their smaller size; which is also a great asset in term of ships like these being able to access smaller ports of call. Personally as a cruising-virgin, a smaller ship is a nice way to ease myself in to the cruising-lifestyle…

…and despite it’s smaller size, this ship certainly satisfies in terms of on board facilities! I doubt very much on our trip across the ‘December Irish Sea’, that we will make use of the outdoor swimming pool and three whirlpools, however I am hoping to squeeze in a little festive pampering at the wellness centre; a little Christmas gift to myself.

The Marco Polo offers a traditional maritime experience and boasts three sumptuous restaurants for dining, as well as five lounges and bars; all with their own distinct charm and character… so I’m especially looking forward to sampling the delights of the elegant Waldorf Restaurant and enjoying the nightime entertainment at Scott’s Bar and in the Marco Polo Lounge.

High on my priority list is a visit to the Livingston Library and a festive tipple in the Columbus Lounge, as well as a wander through the shopping arcade en route and a little quiet time taking in the ocean views from the Palm Garden as we sail toward Dublin…

I’m very much looking forward to exploring the Marco Polo and finally experiencing the delights of cruising first-hand… this cruising-virgin is ready to ride the waves!