Depending on the passenger's specific travel needs, there are several types of cruise packages available, including simple airfare additions and extended vacations on either side of the actual cruise.
Airfare Packages
Airfare packages are the most common type of cruise package purchased, particularly because most passengers are not fortunate enough to live within easy driving distance of a cruise departure port. When purchasing airfare through the cruise line as part of a package, the line typically includes roundtrip transfers between the airport and the cruise port, allowing passengers to relax rather than stress over shuttle buses and taxi fees. Another benefit of airfare packages is that if the flight is delayed, the cruise line will work with the airline to get the passengers to their cruise on time. If passengers arrange their own air travel, a simple mechanical problem could have catastrophic consequences for the remainder of their vacation.
Pre-Cruise and Post-Cruise Packages
Pre - and post-cruise packages often involve hotel stays in or near the departure city for up to several days prior to or after the cruise. Depending on the cruise line, there may be options to add attractions and other guided regional sight-seeing as well. Disney Cruise Line in particular has exceptional packages involving resort stays at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, coordinated with cruises from nearby Port Canaveral, and guests may choose a variety of packages of different lengths to create their ultimate getaway.
Alaskan cruises are another type of cruise vacation that offers many pre - and post-cruise package options for passengers. Because the majority of Alaskan itineraries are one-way voyages, guests can add land-based tours to visit spectacular sights including national parks and monuments, allowing them to see far more of their destination than what is visible from the decks of a cruise ship. Holland America Cruise Line has the most extensive variety of cruise package options associated with their Alaskan itineraries, with options to suit any voyage and any budget.
Cruises to Europe also frequently offer pre - and post-cruise packages visiting inland cities and exploring different nations, giving cruise passengers enriching experiences both on-shore and off. Because many European cruises are once-in-a-lifetime vacations (particularly for United States residents), cruise packages may be just a few days or could extend well over a week to visit different locations.