ROMANCE AT SEA

Stand back from the ship’s rail at the moment of departure and watch as sea air envelopes the couples around you. A funny thing happens—their smiles grow dreamy as they move closer to one another. They reach for each other’s hands. Maybe it has something to do with the hum of the ship’s mechanics, the increasing throb of the engines when bowlines are freed, or the spine-tingling sound of the ship’s horn when you are finally underway.

For sheer fantasy, there’s nothing quite like your own little world in a vast ocean of sea and stars. And those stars! On a clear, quiet night at sea they shine down with special brilliance. Who says the moon reflecting on the water isn’t casting its glow just for you two alone? That’s the beauty of a cruise… there’s an indefinable “something” that brings out the romantic nature in us all—from just-marrieds, young and old, to Golden Anniversary couples—we all feel it.

With a little careful planning, a cruise can be anything you want it to be—a heavenly honeymoon, a renewal of your commitment to one another, or simply a quiet time together, far removed from your fast-paced everyday life.

Cruise lines are certainly aware of the magical effects their vessels have on couples. Many offer options in the way of "romance" or "anniversary" packages that can include goodies such as champagne upon arrival in your stateroom, logo robes to keep, his-and-hers spa treatments, formal photos in elegant frames, and breakfast in bed on the morning of your choice. Renewal of vows are sometimes performed privately by the Captain upon arrangement or in a festive group setting, followed by a champagne toast to your commitment.

For example, Holland America Line offers the following romantic packages:

Romantic Voyage Package - Start your voyage off right with a Bon Voyage flower bouquet, bottle of bubbly champagne, and a half-dozen chocolate strawberries in your stateroom when you arrive. Then receive a 6x8 portrait in an engraved silver frame, a card lesson including $25 in casino chips, dinner for two in the Pinnacle Grill, and one 25 minute Aromatherapy massage. The price is $209.

Just For Us - One dozen roses and Mumms Cordon Rouge champagne on ice will be waiting in your stateroom upon arrival. A pair of deluxe robes are yours to keep, as well as a special chocolate pillow gift, two 25-minute massages, and a framed 8 x 10 portrait. Be served tea one afternoon and dessert and champagne one evening in your stateroom and guaranteed a table for two in the dining room. The price is $440 per couple.

Renewal of Vows - For couples who would like to say their wedding vows while at sea, Holland America offers an on-board renewal-of-vows package. Flowers are in your stateroom upon arrival and the bride receives a corsage. Invitations are available to invite guests to the ceremony and celebration. The couple also receives a photo and photo album, dinner for two in the Pinnacle Grill, plus a celebration featuring live music. Select beverages and fancy hors d'oeuvres are served by Holland America's five-star staff to ensure a romantic and memorable occasion and a certificate is presented to the happy couple by the ship's Captain. The price is $129 per couple (and $12.50 per each invited guest).

Celebrations Package - Share the joy of a special anniversary, or just that you are together, with flowers and champagne in your stateroom upon arrival, dinner one evening in the Pinnacle Grill, and a photograph in an engraved frame as a reminder of your time together and the years to come. The price is $119.

These and similar packages available from other cruise lines aren't really out of line price-wise if you consider the cost of the individual items and the exclusive services they include.