(Round-up) Time in the Mediterranean

Operator: Larnaca Napa Sea Cruises
Larnaca Napa Sea Cruises facilitate a variety of day and night cruises around the magnificent island of Cyprus. With over 30 years of experience, they host a range of journeys that showcase the stunning coastal scenery and crystal-clear waters of the region.

Q. What is the best deck on a cruise ship?
The higher the deck, the more movement. This is something to consider if you experience seasickness. Lower cabin desks are often noisy or subject to vibration from the engines, and decks positioned right above or below all the action also can get a bit noisy. In my experience, I find that being closer to the vision of water makes me feel more immersive. You can move around and view the boat at different zones including the crew deck, the shared cabin and the vessel bridge.

Q. What safety measures are in place?
This is dependent on the jurisdiction but the safety of passengers is often of paramount concerns for all boat tour operators. Make sure that they adhere to international maritime safety laws and regulations, such as SOLAS - Safety of Life at Sea and MARPOL - Marine Pollution Convention. Passengers should be able to trust their tour provider and it is the operators duty to check they have sufficient life jackets and other safety equipment for your trip. On another note, if you like you can try to work out the boat's capacity, the ratio of crew members to passengers!

Q. What is the itinerary including the weather forecast?
The itinerary reflects the scope and objectives of the tour. Before booking the tour, you should check on the amenities. For example - equipment provided, tour operator language, drinks and beverage facilities. Also conducting a check on the weather can be helpful. The weather conditions can significantly impact the quality and safety of the boat tour. It can even result in an unplanned cancellation. Check up on the tour providers cancellations and refunds policy to avoid any disappointment.

Q. What’s your background? Tell me more about the last passengers?
In my recent experience, the crew members were young and non-native, which can be encouraging for speakers of European languages such as Spanish, French, and German. Given their roles in the tourist economy, the crew is well-trained, licensed, and experienced. They are also equipped to provide first aid and handle emergencies, including scenarios like snorkeling or swimming with a pacemaker. Additionally, feedback and reviews from previous passengers serve as valuable proof of the tour’s quality. Online reviews, testimonials, and social media can offer further insights.

Walking City Tour
Operator: Freetour.com
Freetour.com is a platform allowing travelers to book free and budget-friendly tours with local guides in over 120 countries.

Q. Where does the tour pick up and drop off? How much physical exertion?
Many tours operate without official offices, often meeting at street corners, near museums, or at various other public locations. Using Google Maps, plan your route from your accommodation, as this can often be the most challenging part of the tour. Most guided tours, unless they involve a bus or boat, require some walking. Determine the distance and choose appropriate attire. Being prepared for weather changes, from mist to heavy wind, is also advisable.

Q. Does the tour guide speak throughout, or is it an audio tour? 
The guide’s personality and expertise can significantly influence your tour experience. Are they employed by the local government, private enthusiasts, or perhaps trained historians? Additionally, do you understand the guide’s language? Naturally, you’d prefer a tour in a language you comprehend. For some tours, especially boat or ship tours, translating into multiple languages can limit the time and detail the guide can offer. Taking a moment to converse with the guide helps build rapport and demonstrates your interest.