CruiseCompete has released its list of seven reasons why travelers should consider taking an inaugural cruise, noting that avid cruisers often add these voyages to the top of their vacation lists due to the many perks and bonuses of the sailings.
There are currently 79 ships scheduled to debut from 2017 to 2020. CruiseCompete’s list of seven things to love about an inaugural cruises includes:
1. Global Celebrations- Depending on the significance of the ship, there may be an inaugural ceremony, with guests from all over the world. Additionally, the arrival of a new ship in port may be cause for local celebrations throughout the voyage, with festivities in several cities during the course of the itinerary.
2. A Memorable Voyage- The lines frequently offer mementos to passengers of a maiden voyage. When Cunard's Queen Mary 2 launched, she offered "Limited Edition" QM2 maiden-voyage commemorative items, such as t-shirts, playing cards, cups and saucers, stamps, baseball caps and key chains and painted ostrich eggs. Some lines offer a special present in each cabin, usually customized, worth $50 or more.
3. Introductory Pricing- Some maiden voyages offer rates on an itinerary that will be priced significantly higher in the future, since public opinion has not yet been formed.
4. The Excitement of Exclusivity- Travelers will be “been written into a page of history as a member of the elite group of passengers present for the very first sailing of a new ship.”
3. Special Amenities- Lines may offer special food options, entertainment and activities. Passengers on a maiden voyage can take advantage of perks that may not exist on future sailings.
6. An “Immaculate, Sparkling Environment”- Accommodations have no wear and tear, and there’s no sign of the passengers who have come before. Every part of the ship is in untouched condition including the rooms, carpets, dishes and linens.
7. Customized Services- Because the shipboard routine is still fluid, the ship’s staff tends to be flexible with things like menus, seating options and the scheduling of on-board activities.
Visit www.cruisecompete.com.