Popular Cruise Destinations

Current data indicates that the two most popular cruise destinations are the Caribbean and Alaska.

The most popular destination is the Caribbean. My wife, Peggy, and I have cruised to the Caribbean more than five times and can’t wait to go again. The destinations really light up ones spirits. Musicians greet the cruise ship at most destinations pounding out the Caribbean beat setting the stage for fun-in-the-sun or some of the best shopping anywhere. You might even find a casino such as at Antigua right at the end of the pier. Sailing on the Jolly Roger pirate ship is an experience one doesn’t soon forget, even after the glowing effects of the unlimited rum punch. We have water skied and jetskied in some of the most beautiful water anywhere. Since the Caribbean is a year round destination, and cruise lines have built more state-of-the-art cruise ships for Caribbean use, cruising costs are generally considerably less that other popular destinations. For the above reasons, we will also include a Caribbean cruise for the next few years. These cruises generally will be scheduled to sail during the months of February or March or in the fall of the year.

Only a very small percentage of the general population have cruised and of that group only a relatively few have cruised to Alaska. The demand for Alaska cruises is expected to continue to be high for several years to come. Because annually there is such a short period of time available to visit Alaska due to weather, and in spite of the increased number of cruise ships to accommodate this demand, rarely does a cruise ship cruise to Alaska with empty cabins. These facts generally result in a higher cost for the traveler. Because PTM buys its cabins at the lowest cost from cruise lines, we will offer the lowest prices to Alaska on a quality cruise line. If you are going to cruise Alaska, you are encouraged to reserve cabins at the earliest possible date in order to ensure the best selection.

Cruises will be scheduled to any destination when there is sufficient interest as demonstrated by class surveys or the travel survey which is part of this web site.

In this regard the Class of 1956, during a recent reunion at West Point, indicated a strong interest in a Rhine River cruise in 2002, as well as a Western Mediterranean and Alaskan cruise/tour in 2003. In accordance with their wishes weh have planned a Rhine River cruise for 2002 and prior to May 2002 will have details available for the Mediterranean and Alaska cruise for the summer of 2003.