Unspoiled nature and crystal-clear sea are the ingredients for a perfect beach where the beauty of nature meets clear waters and spectacular colours. What’s the best way to discover the most beautiful beaches in the world? By cruise, of course!

Here are some tips on where to go and how to prepare for your cruise trip. Get your flip-flops ready, and go!

Leave Prepared!

IT’S A SHIP, NOT A BOAT

You might not even know that there's a big difference. Referring to the cruise ship as a boat is the biggest mistake you can make when talking about the water world.

A famous comment by an elderly traveller who, to a passenger who had made such a mistake, replied: "A ship can carry a boat. But a boat can certainly not carry a ship.

SEASICKNESS COULD COME

Being a cruise ship, and therefore of gigantic dimensions, many people think that you can't have seasickness. But that's not always the case. In case of nausea, you just have to wait for it to pass. Perhaps with the help of some over-the-counter medication or ginger that relieves the feeling of discomfort.

LIFE GOES ON INDEPENDENTLY

It may be that outside the cabin, you hear the frenetic swarming of life flowing outside. Even if we, inside, between a night of restful sleep and a refreshing shower, have the feeling that everything stops.

REMEMBER YOUR ID EACH TIME YOU LEAVE

Cruise ships are a kind of Nobody's Land. And when you go up and down, there are specific rules to follow. Like security checks on bags. When there are hundreds of people venturing to the ground, there could even be queues of passengers who disembark simultaneously. Be patient, and always show your identity card.

IT’S A GREAT PLACE TO TAN

If you are outside for more than 10 minutes in the sun, you should keep an eye on the signs of the tan. That's why it's best to lie down on the bed, in costume, sipping a cocktail.

CHOOSE AN ALL-INCLUSIVE FORMULA

The purchase of individual beverages could be particularly expensive. That's why all-inclusive packages are one solution.

Where to?

MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE

Imagine embarking ideally on a cruise ship in the Mediterranean and touching the most beautiful beaches of the coast, alongside the cities that have made European history.

From Greece with its beautiful islands through the beaches of charismatic Sicily and Sardinia, all the way to exotic Spain. Every glimpse of the sea can leave you breathless at sight.

BALEARIC CRUISE

Mallorca is the largest island in the Balearic Islands and a very frequent stopover for cruise ships sailing the Western Mediterranean. It is an island of undoubted charm that will enchant you with its beautiful landscapes. Turquoise water that bathes long expanses of white sand, but also cultural and food and wine itineraries that will certainly not leave you disappointed.

CARIBBEAN CRUISE

How many times have you closed your eyes and imagined waking up on one of the most spectacular Caribbean islands, in front of a picture-postcard view, on a white sandy beach and the crystal clear sea? It's time to make your dream come true: a cruise to the Caribbean will take you to the most beautiful places in Central America, with the advantage of being able to visit more islands on the same trip.

Finally…Some Little Tips for a Happy Wallet

Book an inside cabin: The interior cabins aren't as bad as you might think. Before you complain, listen to us: most cruisers won't spend much time in their rooms, so splitting an expensive cabin can be a waste. Also, no window means no sleep interruption from the morning sun.

Drink for free (or cheap) on your cruise ship: Don't you want to fork out your arm and leg for the booze onboard? Most cruises have at least one (if not several) opportunities to get free or cheap drinks. That’s worth checking out.

The best time to book a cruise: Basically, be flexible, and you'll be rewarded with extra money, onboard credit and deep discounts.

Check out other cruise options: Ground excursions are fairly easy to book, but that convenience will cost you a penny. If you're looking to save some serious money, check out some of the port options that are not available through your cruise line. It's a great way to contribute directly to the local economy.