Nile River Cruise Packages

Nile River cruise packages give you more bang for your bucket if you are looking to sail in Egypt. A Nile cruise allows you to get up close to the pyramids, Pharaohs and the majestic life of this ancient region.

In many situations, a package deal can help lower the cost of a cruise. Most packages cover shore excursion fees, ground transportation to and from the cruise ship, port of call costs and hotel expenses. However, each cruise package for the Nile is different. You can base your selection on your needs and wants.

Nile River cruises allow passengers to travel down the Nile River in Egypt. The cruise often takes place on a large river boat, sometimes with sleeping areas and other times without. From the river, cruisers can see a variety of attractions and scenery. In addition, most voayages include excursions to popular tourist attractions such as :

Sphinx in Giza Djoser's Step Pyramid in Saqqara The Luxor Temple which lies on the site of the Ancient Thebes River Museum of Egyptian Antiquities in Cairo The High Dam in Aswan

Many packages will include tour guides who provide background information and guidance for travelers.

Numerous Nile River cruise companies provide package deals. The offers and details below are accurate as of January of 2011. Be sure to check for the most up-to-date offers available through the companies' websites.

Avalon Waterways offers several cruise packages for those traveling down the Nile. The Egyptian Splendor cruise is a nine-day, round-trip cruise from Cairo. The company can book air travel from the United States and include it in your package price. The cruise offers a variety of site seeing opportunities including exploring the Kingdom of Pharaohs.

Another offer by this company is for a 12-day cruise from Cairo that takes travelers farther down the river. This cruise can also include airfare to Cairo from the United States, along with accommodations and admission into the museums and attractions along the route.

For more information on the current cruise offerings or to book a sailing, visit the Avalon Waterways website.

For one of the most complete listings of cruise and tour packages in the region, visit the Safari Egypt website. This company combines Nile River cruises with Egypt tours. The package provides a guide and accommodations for your stay. The company caters to both large groups and individuals who wish to tour the mystical region. The tours may include visiting monuments and wild Sahara safari tours. The company's cruise packages vary from weekend or longer stays.

Another way to book a cruise package down the Nile River is through Discovery Adventures. This company offers a 15-day cruise leaving from Cairo. The company allows you to create your own package. You can choose the dates of your departure, add hotel stays and include transfers. However, you will need to pay your own airfare which is not included in the package price. Highlights of the package include tours of the Holy Mountain, monuments, and sailing on the Red Sea.

To find additional offers for Nile River cruise packages, visit the NileRiverCruise.com website. The site lists a variety of companies offering cruises and cruise packages down the Nile River. Before selecting a cruise, research the tour company and the package prices. Avoid waiting until you get to Cairo to book a Nile River cruise since this is the most expensive route to take. Compare pricing, length of stay and the quality of the cruise online before you book the trip. Also, read through the itinerary of the cruise to find out which tours the company provides as part of the package. These differ widely. Budget, first class, deluxe and luxury cruises on Nile cruises are also available.

Ft. Lauderdale Last Minute Cruises

Ft. Lauderdale last minute cruises may be the ideal getaway for your next weekend trip. If you have some free time, consider booking one of the numerous cruises leaving from this southeastern Florida city to the Caribbean or even Mexico.

Positioned between Miami and Palm Beach, Florida, Fort Lauderdale is a popular cruise port. Each year, more than three million people come through the port, making it one of the busiest port cities in the region. The port servicing Ft. Lauderdale is Port Everglades. Before exploring the cruise options from this port, consider a few important facts:

Port Everglades operates year-round. Peak cruise season is from November through April. Since most northern United States' ports are nonoperational during the winter months, this southern port is popular during the winter. The port offers 300 miles of waterways, which helped earn the port the nickname: "Venice of America."

Several larger cruise lines operate through this port. Often, to fill up open space on board a ship, a cruise company will offer last minute deals. This can help you to save a substantial amount of money. However, it is difficult to book popular cruises at the last minute during the high season.

One of the most popular last minute cruises leaving from Ft. Lauderdale are those to the Caribbean. The cruises sail to the western and eastern Caribbean islands, as well as the east coast of Mexico. Cruises of all sizes, ranging from luxury cruises to smaller, yacht style cruises, are available for these trips throughout the year.

Some of the cruises from Ft. Lauderdale will take passengers through the Panama Canal. Others travel to the Bahamas. These are popular throughout the year and are best for those who wish to take a longer, last minute cruise. You may also wish to consider a repositioning cruise from this port. This type of cruise takes ships from the Ft. Lauderdale port and positions them for Transatlantic voyages. This occurs in April and May of each year.

Locating last minute cruise discounts from Ft. Lauderdale is possible. The key is to be as flexible as possible. The following websites can help you find available cruises departing from the popular Florida city:

Last Minute Cruises: This website provides detailed and up-to-date information regarding Ft. Lauderdale last minute cruises. Vacations to Go: The site promises to help travelers save as much as 75 percent off on last minute bookings. The company also posts daily cruise specials. Orbitz:This company has a listing of available cruises departing within 45 days. The company sometimes offers numerous discounts and upgrades. Princess Cruises: The cruise line has the most ships docked in Ft. Lauderdale. To find last minute offerings and get alerts about deals, register on the company's website. Carnival Cruise Lines: The company sails from Ft. Lauderdale to the Bahamas, Western Caribbean and the Eastern Caribbean, and posts last minute deals on its website.

In addition to these options, you can find a variety of other cruise companies setting sail from Ft. Lauderdale. The Port Everglades website offers a complete list of cruise companies using the port. You can also get information on single- and multi- day last minute cruises. Some may even offer same-day cruise availability especially for single day excursions.

You might also have luck finding a sweet money-saving deal by speaking with local travel agents. Often they are provided with advance notices on last minute sailings.

Eastern Mediterranean Cruises to Greece and Egypt

Most Eastern Mediterranean cruises to Greece and Egypt?offer a variety of activities that spotlight?the region's ancient history and antiquities.? In addition, passengers are treated to luxury accommodations onboard floating resorts.? The upscale sailings also offer access to?popular beaches and upscale villages along the coastline.?

How to Pick the Perfect Kids' Cruise

Kick up your annual family vacation with a cruise that caters to the youngest members in your clan. There is a sea of fun-filled kids cruises to choose from; however, the sheer volume of choices often makes selecting the perfect voyage a challenge for parents. Roberta Backus Turner is no stranger to this dilemma. The spokesperson for Discovery Cruise Line specializes in helping parents pick the perfect kids' cruise. She shares her selection tips with LoveToKnow readers in this exclusive interview:

LoveToKnow (LTK): Sailing with kids is a great family vacation option, but what if you are cruising with children of varying ages?

Roberta Backus Turner (RBT): If you are cruising for the first time with very young children, then you might consider taking a day cruise. Discovery Cruise Line offers kids' cruises that depart from Ft. Lauderdale in the early morning and arrive in Grand Bahama Island by lunch time. Kids and their parents can visit the island's beaches or other family-friendly attractions. The ship departs Grand Bahama Island at 4:45 p.m. and arrives back in Ft. Lauderdale at 10 p.m. Two all-you-can-eat breakfast and dinner buffets are included in the price and cabins are available so kids can relax during the cruise. Also, when you take a shorter cruise you don't have to pack as much. Most cruise ships offer a variety of food, beverages and activities to keep kids busy, so you don't have to bring along a ton of stuff. If you are sailing with older children, then consider a multi-day cruise to a destination that offers a variety of kid-friendly attractions. Discovery offers a Cruise N' Stay Vacation package which allows families to spend the night at local Bahamian hotels and explore the island by day.

LTK: What types of amenities should parents look for when cruising with children?

RBT: Kids' clubs are popular features in newer vessels. Discovery Cruise Line features a kids club that boasts computer games, arts and crafts, movies and a Wii room. Parents can drop off their children at Club Discovery, and then relax and enjoy the ship's adult amenities, while the kids get their faces painted, participate in scavenger hunts, eating contests and other games.

LTK: How does destination factor into the selection process?

RBT: Choosing the right destination is key to a memorable kids' cruise. If your kids love playing in the great outdoors, then head to Mexico, Hawaii or the Caribbean. Grand Bahama Island is an ideal vacation spot for families because of its beautiful beaches, kid-friendly restaurants and myriad of activities, such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling. Kids can even swim with dolphins. The best part is that it is so close to the United States, it doesn't take that long to get there and back, and when you cruise on Discovery getting there is only half the fun.

LTK: How can parents get the best deals when shopping for a kids cruise?

RBT: Timing is everything. Cruising during the off season will score you bigger savings. Also, look for buy one, get one free deals, reduced rates and other specials that cruise lines offer throughout the year. For example, for summer 2011, Discovery is offering a special money-saving promotion which allows one child under the age of 12 to cruise for free when accompanied by an adult. This allows families, who may be experiencing economic hardships, to experience a high seas adventure without breaking the bank.

LoveToKnow would like to thank Roberta Backus Turner for providing useful insider information on kids' cruises and tips on selecting the perfect voyage for children of all ages.

Antarctic Last Minute Cruise Deals

Last-minute cruise deals to Antarctica allow budget-conscious travelers a precious opportunity to explore one of the hottest ecotourism spots in the world. The unsettled land is home to awe-inspiring frozen vistas, snow-capped mountains, gigantic icebergs and miles of unspoiled natural wonders.

For those who dream of traveling to the edge of the Earth, a cruise to Antarctica is an experience that can't be duplicated. Antarctica is a bitterly cold continent surrounded by ocean and has very few residents. It shouldn't be confused with the Arctic which is all water punctuated with regions containing a healthy mix of human and animal life. The "White Continent" boasts an unaltered isolation rarely found on the planet, making it prefect for travelers who crave peace and tranquility. However, the downside to this pristine remoteness, free of traffic, cell phones and pollution is that it is not easily accessible.

Most ships that sail to Antarctica are considerably smaller than traditional ocean liners that cruise to the Caribbean. The vessels are built as icebreakers designed to withstand the frigid, ice-filled waters. What's more, due to Antarctica treaty laws, no more than 100 passengers are able to explore a port at one time. This can be challenging since the window for Antarctica voyages is so limited.

The majority of Antarctica cruises sail exclusively between November and February when the temperatures are a tolerable 20 to 50 degrees. While it may be winter in North America, Antarctica enjoys high summer and 20 plus hours of daylight from December through March.

Access to its abundant natural gems and supreme solitude combined with its short sailing season make cruising to Antarctica an expensive travel option. Keep in mind that because of its isolated ports, most Antarctic voyages require a minimum of 10 nights, though most average about two to three weeks. The length of travel can put a glacier-sized hole in your wallet. Fortunately, there are ways you can save on sailings to South America.

Last-minute cruise deals to Antarctica can help you pocket up to 50 percent off traditional rack rates. The money-saving deals can be found through travel agents, though the best way to know if you are getting a real bargain is to compare last-minute sale prices on these reputable cruise travel websites:

In order to take advantage of the last-minute deals:

It pays to be as flexible as possible. Due to its remote location, you will likely have to spend a fair amount of time flying to your port of departure. The most popular and closest cruise port to Antarctica is located in Ushuaia, Argentina. If you are traveling from North America it is a good idea to arrive in Ushuaia at least a day in advance of your Antarctica cruise. This will give you time to recover from the long flight and get acclimated to the region before boarding the ship. Since most last-minute deals bundle pre-cruise hotel stays with regular sailing fees, you shouldn't have to worry about breaking the bank by arriving a day prior to departure. If you live near the port of Ushuaia you have the best chance of scoring the biggest savings on last-minute deals to Antarctica. Since the vessels that explore the waters around the continent are smaller than traditional cruise ships, it is not unusual for travelers to be able to purchase spots on Antarctica voyages less than 24 hours prior to their departures. Local travel agents often advertise the rock-bottom fares; however, all last-minute purchases must be made in person.

Securing a last-minute deal on an Antarctica cruise is akin to hitting the jackpot for nature lovers. The one-of-a-kind sailings are better classified as educational explorations. In addition to enjoying immaculate landscapes, cruisers are given the chance to get up close and personal with Antarctica's wildlife. This includes:

Coming face-to-face with animated penguins Breaching humpback whales Wandering polar bears Languishing seals

It's an opportunity you can't put a price tag on. What's more, since most voyages to Antarctica include at least four to five days at sea, passengers are given the chance to participate in on-board lectures led by veteran naturalists and top-rated researchers that thoughtfully explain scenic wonders, from the colorful prisms of light that bounce off massive icebergs to the sculpted volcanoes that dot the snowy continent.

Historic Cruise on Lake Minnetonka

Take a trip back in time on the legendary Lady of the Lake. The historic paddlewheeler glides effortlessly through Lake Minnetonka's bays, inlets and harbors while highly knowledgeable guides provide an informative account of memorable chapters in Minnesota's past.

Despite the fact that the Lady of the Lake only sails seasonally, she is a magnet for visitors and locals alike. During the summer months, the iconic, white, three-deck sternwheeler can be seen from miles away navigating the waters of Lake Minnetonka packed with guests from around the world. Whether you are looking for the charm of a chartered cruise or you simply want to partake in a daily public voyage, the Lady of the Lake has a sailing option for you.

The Lady of the Lake's public tours run every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The 90-minute narrated cruise includes a historic look at the sights and sounds that surround awe-inspiring Lake Minnetonka, including posh Excelsior, Minnesota. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, the shores of Excelsior are dotted with palatial mansions and sprawling estates. In addition, the historic cruise on Lake Minnetonka also features unprecedented views of ancient Native American burial sites, including "Mound City" on the western end of the lake.

Tickets can only be purchased as you board the boat. Daily tours set sail at 1 p.m., and boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure. Passengers are allowed to bring along a picnic lunch, which can be supplemented with the on-board beverage service.

In addition to its daily tours, the Lady of the Lake is also available for private charters. One of the most popular private cruise options is the corporate package. These sailings are designed to motivate or reward employees or clients and typically include a catered meal onboard the historic paddleboat. Most corporate sailings depart in the late afternoon or early evening so guests can enjoy spectacular sunset views from the Lady of the Lake's three decks. With a seating capacity of 110, these chartered dinner cruises offer a relaxing environment with plenty of elbow room. In addition, to the full-service meal, guests will also be treated to a narrated historic tour upon request.

If you are looking to tie the knot in a unique venue, then consider the Lady of the Lakes. The historic vessel also hosts weddings and receptions. With its charming decor, full bar and mouthwatering catering, you can make your wedding day one to remember forever. You and your beloved can exchange vows on the top deck of the iconic paddlewheeler overlooking the breathtakingly beautiful natural wonders of Lake Minnetonka. During the reception you and your guests can enjoy the relaxing sounds of lapping waves and the calls of indigenous birds from the outdoor sundeck.

Wedding packages include:

Appetizers Beverages Sit-down or buffet-style meals Flowers Wedding cake Theme decorations

The Lady of the Lake's three decks can be used in different capacities to ensure the comfort of your guests. The main deck is typically set up for dancing while the lower deck is arranged as a dining area. Meanwhile, the top deck is transformed into a cozy respite for guests looking for a tranquil retreat.

Minnesotans consider themselves to be very lucky to have access to spectacular Lake Minnetonka. The 14,500-acre body of water is an extremely popular resort destination located roughly 20 miles west of Minneapolis-St. Paul. That's where the Lady of the Lake operates its family-friendly historic cruises. However, the large body of water, which boasts some 200 miles of shoreline, is not the only feature with a storied past. The Lady of the Lake has a unique antiquity as well. The legendary vessel was inspired by the Belle of Minnetonka, which was first launched in 1882. Back then Lake Minnetonka was a remote outpost and the vessels that navigated it were far from recreational. These days, Lake Minnetonka is a tourist hot spot and the Lady of the Lake is one of the longest operating sternwheelers to guide visitors on an educational tour through its historic past.

Celebrity Expert Reveals Tips on Taking a Luxury Cruise

Forget about the overrated pomp and pageantry that's typically associated with new cruise ships. Celebrity Cruises latest addition Celebrity Silhouette provides you with understated sophistication and personalized pampering that you'll remember long after your dream voyage returns to port.

Brian Powell, Associate Vice President of Marketing at Celebrity Cruises is an expert when it comes to luxury sailings. The veteran high seas voyager gives us an insider's look at Celebrity Silhouette and shares advice on how to make the most of your time on a high-class cruise in this exclusive LoveToKnow interview:

LoveToKnow (LTK): The Silhouette is a 122,400-ton floating masterpiece that can accommodate nearly 3,000 passengers. It launched on July 21, 2011, as the fourth ship in Celebrity's Solstice-class. Like its sister ships it has a number of incredible features, could you describe the ones that are most impressive?

Brian Powell (BP): When we introduced Celebrity Solstice in 2008, we wanted to change the way people view cruise vacations, with the hip, cool style of public spaces to the variety and quality of culinary experiences onboard. We continue to raise the bar in our attempts to exceed passengers' expectations with the introduction of our AquaClass staterooms, inspired by the spa enthusiast lifestyle. In addition, the creation of the first Lawn Club - a top-deck lawn of real, growing grass - at sea, is a real crowd pleaser, and one of the hallmarks of our Solstice Class that has truly redefined cruising. The ship also offers another entirely new venue, The Hideaway, an intimate, quiet space reminiscent of a childhood tree house.

The Alcoves onboard the Silhouette

LTK: What new dining options are available?

BP: Celebrity Silhouette has introduced a whole new set of spaces on and around our Lawn Club. These include:

The interactive Lawn Club Grill: A place where guests can select and grill their own meats side-by-side with our expert chefs, or have them cooked to order The Porch: A breezy, casual dining spot offering sandwiches, coffees and captivating views of the sea and the ship's lush lawn The Alcoves: A collection of relaxing, private, Wi-Fi-equipped cabanas where you can indulge in gourmet picnic food

In addition, we've added a new twist on Celebrity's Michael's Club, with a selection of more than 50 beers from around the world, including craft beers. In total, there are seven specialty restaurants on Celebrity Silhouette, as well as a main dining room and multiple casual dining venues.

LTK: The luxury vessel boasts phenomenal staterooms and suites. What advice can you give those trying to decide which type of cabin to book?

BP: All of our staterooms and suites feature exceptional service, luxurious bedding, flat-screen TVs and comfortable showers. Someone seeking the most sumptuous experience should consider booking a Sky Suite or Royal Suite, which brings butler service, more seating areas and space, and the opportunity to enjoy special perks such as assistance unpacking and complimentary espresso and cappuccino into the mix. If a truly relaxing experience is the goal, I recommend our AquaClass staterooms, which are located near the AquaSpa and feature unlimited access to the Persian Garden aromatherapy room and Relaxation Room, exclusive dining in the specialty restaurant Blu, flavored teas, pampering in-stateroom lotions and other amenities.

LTK: What insider tips can you give guests that will help enhance their experience on the Silhouette?

BP: Don't miss out on the experiences at The Lawn Club. Whether you want to play bocce or croquet, relax in one of The Alcoves for the day, or if you simply like to feel cool grass beneath your feet while gazing miles out at sea, The Lawn Club is one of the most unique venues around.

If you haven't vacationed with us before, come prepared to immerse yourself in culture, luxury and exhilaration. Book a treatment in the AquaSpa, or fall in love with a new favorite wine in Cellar Masters. Of course, if you have vacationed with us and are a member of our Captain's Club loyalty program, you will have even more opportunities for us to put you at the center of our attention, from an officers' cocktail party to special laundry and Internet benefits.

Whether this is your first Celebrity vacation or your fifth, my utmost advice for getting the most out of a cruise on Celebrity Silhouette is to step onboard prepared to relax, take in the stylish, luxurious surroundings, and let us do what we do: give you the best vacation possible.

LTK: Some potential cruisers may be intimidated to take a luxury cruise. However, with a little research there are ways to save on opulent high seas adventures. What types of deals are available at Celebrity Cruises?

BP: We strive to make luxury sailings accessible for even the most budget-conscious travelers. In you are interested in being pampered from head-to-toe on one of our magnificent ships, visit our "Specials" page to view ways you can enjoyed reduced rates and access other ways you can get more from your cruise vacation for less. You can also get the latest information on Celebrity sailings on our Facebook page.

Whether you dream voyage takes you to the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, make sure all of your needs and wants are being met. A truly memorable cruise exceeds all of your expectations and makes you feel at home on the high seas. That's something you can't put a price tag on.