Cruise

[foxlair]

We are in our seventies and going on our first cruise to celebrate our Golden Wedding anniversary.It is only a short cruise Calling at, lisbon, Bilbao , Vigo and Brest. There are many excursions on offer,has anyone been on this cruise and think yes you must do this one.Someone has told us there are Taxis and buses waiting when you get off the boat, is this a better option ?.Would appreciate any advice,thanks.

[mahcaeh]

we went on a cruise to Spain and France last year with P and O - yes there are many excursions and some are very expensive. At most ports they provide a shuttle bus into the town free of charge. Sometimes they dock right near to the town and it is good to walk around and do your own thing.
Hope you have an enjoyable cruise - and perhaps like us you will be 'hooked' and want to go again. This year we went to the Baltic and are now looking at next years brochure

[foxlair]

Thank you very much,that is most helpful

[Cathyhuns]

Having done a number of cruises we now only do the formal excursions if it's something you can't organise yourself. Otherwise we walk, take buses or public transport - all of which adds to the enjoyment of the trip.

[sddsddean]

I would strongly recommend you go to
www.cruisecritic.com
and join up for free. On the boards on there you can find out about every aspect of cruising. You can join the 'roll call' for your cruise and 'talk' to other people on your cruise. Many of us organise private trips which usually work out cheaper and better than the cruise line tours. As with everything, there are pros and cons. The main one is if you go on a cruise line tour and you are late back (puncture on the coach etc) the ship will wait for you. If you are on a private tour, it won't. Now on all the cruises I've been on, its never happened, but just be aware. I've only been to 2 of your ports. If you are in your 70's, I don't think you would fancy the very steep climb to the old fort in Vigo, but there is plenty to see in the shore area. The most popular thing to do from Vigo is visit the cathedral at Santiago de Campostella (sp). At Brest we took a tour to Bayeux (and the tapestry) and then all the sites on the British and Canadian D Day beaches including the Mulberry harbour at Arromanches and the Pegasus bridge museum. Have a great time on your first cruise...personally, we love them!!!

[foxlair]

Thanks very much, We do appreciate your comments