Whether you’re planning your very first cruise or you’re a seasoned traveller wanting to make even more of your time at sea, the YOU Travel & Cruise Masters are experts at creating an unforgettable journey.
Backed by extensive industry knowledge, personal cruising experience and a passion for travel, YOU Travel & Cruise specialists are unbeatable for navigating the ever-growing world of cruising.
From selecting the right ship to choosing an itinerary that suits your style, they ensure every detail aligns perfectly with your desires. All YOU Travel & Cruise agencies are members of CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) and many consultants have achieved CLIA Master status. With a deep understanding of cruise lines, destinations and emerging trends,
YOU Travel & Cruise Masters stay ahead of the curve, keeping up with new ship launches, evolving itineraries, and onboard experiences. This means you benefit from up-to-date insights, tailored recommendations and access to exclusive offers.
Whether you’re dreaming of a river cruise, an adventurous expedition or a luxurious ocean voyage, they take the time to match you with the ideal ship and itinerary, turning your cruise plans into reality.
Lydia Haydon
YOU Travel & Cruise, Bethlehem
Ocean cruise or land-based adventure?
I find cruising offers a seamless, stress-free way to explore multiple destinations without time being eaten away having to pack and move locations. For me, it’s the perfect mix of convenience, great value, and a balance of relaxation and exploration all rolled into one.
Preferred luxury ocean cruise option?
There are amazing options to choose from including Regent, Silversea, Seabourn, Explora Journeys, Oceania, PONANT and many more. For the luxury ocean cruise market, what really sets it apart are the inclusions, attention to detail, shore excursions, in some cases premium beverages, and the exceptional service that are all part of the journey.
What’s been your standout highlight?
Sailing with Regent Seven Seas in Alaska, where I loved the choice of included shore excursions available in each port.
Who suits ocean and river cruising?
I tend to suggest an ocean or river cruise to clients who value ease and a well put-together experience. It’s perfect for those who want to see multiple destinations without the constant packing and organising, but still enjoy great food, service and a real sense of discovery.
Does cruising suit everyone?
With so many styles of cruising available, there truly is something for everyone.
Trish Ryder
YOU Travel & Cruise, Manly
What do you love about expedition cruising?
I just love to be able to unpack once and wake up in a remote place. It’s such an easy way to travel without the hassle of constant logistics. Plus, with the current NZD value, they’re fantastic value for money.
What has been your cruise highlight?
In Greece on an ocean cruise, approaching Santorini with its cliffs and whitewashed buildings, was an unforgettable experience that you simply don’t get the same way from land. Being able to wake up each day in a different island, step off the ship, and explore the various towns and the beautiful sunsets.
River, ocean or expedition?
Ocean cruises, I would recommend to travellers who want variety, comfort, and an easy way to see multiple destinations in one trip. They are also appealing for first-time visitors to regions, where ships allow people to experience several iconic locations without the hassle of constant travel planning. River cruises, I would suggest to more mature travellers who enjoy guided excursions interested in history, architecture, and small towns. Plus, the convenience of docking right in the heart of cities and towns. Expedition cruises, I would recommend them to more adventurous travellers who are interested in nature, wildlife, and remote destinations.
What has been your most recent cruise?
A river cruise in the Venice Lagoon last year. It gave us the opportunity to visit the outlying islands of Murano, Burano and Chioggia, where many Venetians live. Each island has its own unique character, quite different from the main island of Venice. With its great mix of activities, I would 100 per cent recommend this river cruise for somebody who hasn’t cruised previously.
Hayley Thompson
YOU Travel & Cruise, Manly
Advice for those new to cruising?
For someone new to cruising, a luxury small ship or yacht experience feels far more like a floating boutique hotel than a traditional cruise, with spacious suites, personalised service, and restaurant-quality dining rather than buffets. It’s ideal for travellers who value style and immersion, offering access to smaller ports, a relaxed onboard atmosphere, ease of travel and the freedom to explore without ever feeling crowded or confined.
Overlooked benefit of cruising?
The slower pace encourages genuine connections with fellow travellers and the crew. We had new friends with whom to enjoy rosé and relaxed lunches, evening cocktails, special dinners and many laughs discussing the destination highlights.
Gianna Pfenniger
YOU Travel & Cruise, Manly
New to cruise recommendation?
The ‘Active & Discovery’ on Avalon is suited to a younger demographic (the average age is 46); there’s lots of walking and biking if you choose to. I was averaging 20,000 steps most days, but you can do as much or as little as you like. With river cruising it’s just 10 seconds to walk off the ship; you don’t have to wait for tenders and time slots like ocean cruising.
Cruise highlight?
The VIP options that you wouldn’t be able to organise yourself; for example, we had an evening private reception at Rheinstein Castle in Germany. Nobody else there, just us. You walk up the winding castle hill with champagne waiting on arrival and an exclusive talk with the owner before having free time to explore ourselves.
Monett Johnston
YOU Travel & Cruise, Whitianga
Biggest highlight of any cruise?
On an expedition ship, the opportunity of an unscheduled Zodiac ride to see an unusual occurrence and the crew creating a fun ice-cream treat for all the passengers while cruising among the glaciers.
River, ocean or expedition?
For people who have done coach touring before, I would suggest that they try a river cruise, as the principle is very similar. For people who are physically active, I would suggest they explore an expedition cruise, as they would find the daily exploring interesting and would encounter similar travellers to share adventures with. There are many interesting cruise itineraries, such as cruising on the Brahmaputra River which is included in Viking’s new India cruise.
Christine Ross
YOU Travel & Cruise, Manly
What’s your cruise experience?
I have had the great good fortune of going on 35 cruises since 2012. Cruising is the most affordable way to have a holiday. The accommodation, food and entertainment are included in the price and there are also deals where you can have shore excursions and drinks included in your fare. There is so much to do onboard, so many dining options and bars and lounges where you can find quiet spaces to relax. I have also experienced the luxury ships like Silversea and Viking ocean cruises. They are truly amazing and the level of elegance, true luxury and service are just phenomenal.
Enjoy A Luxury Hotel Experience At Sea
It’s a new era of ultra-luxury travel, where the polish of five-star hotels meets cruising. Brands such as The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons Yachts are leading this evolution. Think expansive suites rather than cabins and dining that rivals flagship restaurants on land. The scale is intentionally smaller, fostering a sense of privacy and exclusivity.
For more information on your next dream adventure, visit youtravel.co.nz
