Ask Endora

Dear Endora,

If I book a cruise and have the cruise line add the air, which carrier will I fly?

Brian - Michigan

Dear Brian,

Well my dear, if you want to pay extra you can choose the carrier and flights. However, if you take the best available air OR their free inclusive air you won’t be picking which airlines or flight times to travel. This is determined a few weeks prior to your departure and IMO is not worth the hassle. Our master cruise counselor always finds better air pricing outside of the cruise lines. So I highly recommend booking your air on your own, and always arrive one day prior to your departure to ensure the ship doesn’t sail without you!

Hope this helps,
   Endora

Dear Endora,

I am contemplating a river cruise, but I am not sure I would like this type of travel. Is there a target market identified by these lines as to who would be a good river cruise candidate?

I don’t want to waste time on a trip if I don’t think it will suit my tastes or needs, got to hit as much as I can on the bucket list!

Thank you,
Greg

Dear Greg,

I can personally state that I LOVE river cruising – but you are correct in that it might not be for everyone. The river cruise lines actually have compiled a list based on past passengers to determine the profile of a perfect river cruise candidate

  • Typically 50 years of age on up...
  • 80% have traveled on a mega cruise line at least once
  • Well traveled
  • Couples comprise of 80% of clientele
  • 60% of travelers are women
  • Well educated
  • Those who want to include land travel as part of the experience
  • Active travelers
  • Unstructured experience – you can participate in land excursions or do your own thing
  • Unique destinations
  • Upscale travelers where experience is a key reason to travel

After you travel on the smaller cruise lines you will understand why so many people choose this type of cruise over the mega cruise ships. It is an amazing experience that you will never forget!

   Endora

Dear Endora,

I have heard the waves in Hawaii are measured differently than in the continental United States is this true? And what was the biggest wave ever measured?

Stephen

Dear Stephen,

The waves in Hawaii are measured from the back side. A 6 foot wave in California is equivalent to a 3 foot wave in Hawaii. The largest surfed wave was on Oahu and measured 55 feet by California standards. That is some big wave!

   Endora