Linda Carter
Linda Carter
River, Ocean and Expedition Cruise Specialist
Having explored 65 countries, cruised on all the major rivers of Europe and sailed on more than 18 ocean cruise lines I use my experience to help you find the trip that fits your dreams. Whether its the Caribbean, Canada, Europe, Iceland, New Zealand and Australia, Alaska or South America, Bali, Fiji, Mexico or the Galapagos, I have been there and I can make suggestions so you get the most out of your trip.
River Cruising is one of the best ways to see the heart of Europe. What appeals to you? Is it castles and cathedrals and shopping? Is it tiny villages and charming historic small towns? Do you want to tour vineyards of the Wacchau Valley and visit places like Vienna, Passau, and Budapest? Wine is the star on a Bordeaux sailing, but how about adding the Loire Valley for a some amazing chateaus? In Portugal on a river cruise from Porto is beautiful in the fall with many tiny villages, and stunning fall color.
If you are searching for the highlights of Europe: Rome, Florence, Athens, Barcelona, Venice and other famous cities, then a cruise is a simple way to visit these larger than life places. With a variety of travel styles, from luxury, all inclusive, destination immersive, and family friendly there are many great choices. Similarly there are many land based tours from small group to regular coach sized, with a variety of styles and inclusive tours.
In the Antarctic, there are so many important details. Do you want to kayak? Camp? Or do the polar plunge? The size of the ship determines the number of landings in a day since only 100 guests can be ashore at a time. Some of the larger ships just do a sail by, is that enough? Do you want to see penguins? Some species of penguin are found in just one location. How luxurious do you want? How about a sauna with a view of the icebergs? In the Antarctic what you want to experience coupled with what you expect for service can help us determine the perfect cruise for you.
In the Galapagos what ticks your bucket list? Is it swimming with the sea turtles and the sea lions? How about seeing the blue footed boobie, the salt water iguana, or the giant land turtle? The naturalists are amazing and the focus is on the destination, but there are multiple routes to consider, and also the season to take in to account. The size of the ships and the degree of luxury separate the cruise lines, as does the ability to add extensions like Machu Picchu, or the Amazon.
In the Caribbean there are an huge number of choices, both between islands and between cruise lines and also compared to an all inclusive resort. Cruising is a way to sample islands and sailing is easy and convenient from the USA. Trips originating in the US, round-trip from the same home port don't even require a passport. You can choose a cruise line that is luxurious, adventure filled, casual, family friendly, or some mix styles. At an all inclusive you can focus on one destination, and choose to venture out on tours to experience the destination.
Having been on over 50 cruises, and visited dozens of all inclusive resorts, I can help find your dream vacation. What is on your bucket list?