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Author: Marilyn King

Article source: http://www.articlealley.com/. Used with author's permission.

Sea days are not all the same, but have a lot in common.
Activities, games, fitness programs, lectures, port talks -
non-stop! Personalize your cruise experience. Participate
in any or all activities available - or do nothing more than
enjoy your tropical drink while reading a book on the pool
deck.

When you boarded your ship, you probably noticed that the
shops and casino were closed. Local regulations do not allow
them to open while in port - however, once at sea, all
ship's facilities are available during set hours.

Let your daily schedule be your guide. Mark the activities
you don't want to miss with a highlighter. You can choose
from -

* Exercise and fitness classes
* Casino gaming and "tournaments"
* Bingo
* Lectures - ports and shopping, health and fitness,
lifestyles, language classes, and more
* Bridge lessons & tournaments
* Pool games, ping-pong and shuffleboard contests
* Art auctions
* Dance classes
* Horseracing (a shipboard classic)
* Wine tasting
* Meetings
* Spa and salon services

Head for the library or card room for quiet activities. Many
of the ship's lounges are also open.

One of the most popular spots on board during sunny sea days
is the swimming pool. Towels are provided. A lively band
plays poolside and the pool bar is a great spot to make new
friends. Enjoy the festivities from a shaded chair - if you
are not a sun worshiper.

Breakfast and lunch during sea days are casual. Open-seating
in the dining room - you can dine at any time during
specified hours. Shorts are acceptable, but not bathing
suits! If you don't want to change, toss on a cover-up and
head for the lido buffet. Some ships feature a poolside
grill - have a quick bite without sacrificing your tanning
time.

Sea days, particularly if they are the second and
next-to-the last days of the cruise, are usually followed by
formal evenings. During your first formal night, the Captain
hosts a reception. You are greeted by the ship's Social
Hostess, who introduces you to the Master of the Vessel (a
photo opportunity). Complimentary beverages and hors
d'oeuvres are served. Then the Captain takes the stage to
introduce his officers and staff.

Ship photographers set their equipment up in a variety of
locations before and after dinner to take formal portraits.
They also make the rounds in the dining room to take
informal shots of couples and groups.

Bon Appetit! You're off to a formal dinner, followed by an
elaborate show in the main theatre. Afterwards, one lounge
may feature a pianist, another might offer karaoke, and yet
another swings into disco mode until the wee hours of the
morning. There's a lot to keep you busy! Or you may just
want to take a romantic stroll in the moonlight on the
promenade deck - then retire to rest up for your next day in
port.

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Marilyn King has been a travel professional since 1988. Her
"Flight To Quality" has provided quality travel arrangements
for individuals, corporations and groups: Europe, South
America and the Caribbean. Marilyn recently completed her
Ireland Specialist Programme. She is a member of The Shamrock
Club/Tourism Ireland. Learn more -
( http://www.FlightToQuality.com ). Subscribe to your "Free
for Life" newsletter - "Psssss.....t!" Receive your Free
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