Cruise Vacation Popularity Soars

The popularity of cruise vacations is at an all-time high, with more than 2.2 million North Americans opting for cruises in the last quarter of 2004. Many cruiselines are reporting occupancy rates of 100%.

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(PRWEB) October 9, 2004 -- More than 2.2 million North American travelers opted for a cruise vacation in the second quarter of 2004, up 14.3% from the same time last year as reported by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). "The cruise industrys continued strong performance in

2004 reflects the quality, value and consumer demand for cruise vacations and is a testament to the dedicated efforts of CLIA-member travel agencies," according to Terry L. Dale, CLIA president.

Unlike traditional air/land vacations, cruises offer a degree of luxury, relaxation and site- seeing not possible with other forms of travel. Luggage is unpacked only once, yet travelers enjoy many cities and ports of call for sight-seeing. Cruiseliner meals are opulant, shipboard entertainment rivals better Las Vegas shows and daytime activities are reminiscent of a luxury spa. With deluxe accomodations, travel, meals and entertainment all included in the

cost, cruising also represents one of the best vacation values.

One word of advice if you are planning a cruise vacation: book early. The increased popularity of cruising has also resulted in 100% occupancy rates on many popular cruiselines. It is not

too soon to make reservations for Winter holiday travel.

To check on dates, availability and costs of cruising on any major cruisline, visit http://www.the-cruise-director-luxury-cruises.com

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