USA AND MEXICO STARTED THE CRUISING CRAZE

The world first experienced life aboard a modern cruise ship with the phenomenal popularity of the television series Love Boat*** in the 1970s and 80s. Life aboard the Love Boat Pacific Princess was like nothing they had experienced before.

The ship normally cruised the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles to Acapulco with various ports in between. For 249 episodes between 1977 and 86 the world tuned in each week to watch Captain Stubing and his crew navigate through a minefield of personal dramas and mishaps.
From the moment Jack Jones belted out the famous Love Boat theme song, audiences around the world were swept up in life aboard a floating resort. And they ‘loved’ it. The show always rated around the top 10 in America and has proved immensely popular in reruns.  It is still shown on Channel 11 in Australia.
For Australians, the show convinced them to take their first cruise aboard the Fairstar, Oriana or Russian cruise ships then based down under. From there it was a natural progression to go cruising in America.
Time moves on, however. Mexico is still a popular cruise destination from America, but it was the Caribbean region which ultimately captured the attention of the cruising world.
America is the world leader in cruising. Ships depart mainly from Florida and Los Angeles, but departures are available at most major ports. The north east region of the USA and Canada is growing in popularity.
For Australian visitors to the USA a cruise is the perfect way to start or finish your holiday. Cruising out of a city like New York or San Francisco is a spectacular way to start your journey.
Cruising is also possible aboard the major rivers and lakes of America in small ship form.
Floating down to Mexico is a great way to see this intriguing country. The little ports are enchanting with their markets and colourful brass and string bands playing in the street.
You can enjoy lunch at a traditional outdoor Mexican restaurant or a few cleansing ales at a beach bar.
Make sure you itinerary includes Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco, all beautiful, fascinating places to visit.
American cruise ships are mostly laid back and very relaxed. Americans love their food and entertainment.
They welcome Australians with a special affection. You will be overwhelmed with hospitality and you will be respectively bombarded with questions.

And at one of the live shows or the karaoke nights someone is sure to stand up and belt out the theme song from the Love Boat. It will sail on forever.


*** See our review on the 'New' Love Boat

The shopping is great in Mexico

Norwegian Cruise Line passengers enjyoying a day on shore in Mexico

Exploring the ancient Mayan ruins is a highlight of a Mexican cruise