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Profile of Thomson Cruises

From Michelle Abrams, for About.com

(LifeWire) - Company Information

Thomson Cruises is part of the British travel company Thomson, which has been in business since the 1960s. Thomson Cruises has a fleet of small- and medium-sized ships, and guests can choose from an array of itineraries based on their personal preferences.

Mission

Thomson Cruises offers casual, moderately priced cruises that appeal to people of all ages. In the past, Thomson generally attracted first-time cruisers looking for a good value, but the cruise line now has many repeat customers who enjoy the relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Destinations

Caribbean, Europe and Africa

Tour Participant Demographics

Thomson's passengers are mostly British. Thomson attracts a wide range of ages, including groups of singles, honeymooners and seniors. There are many families aboard during school vacations. The Island Escape ship appeals to the youngest demographic, while the Calypso is for guests ages 16 and older only.

Single Traveler Information

Thomson has a single-supplement charge, which varies according to the cruise and time of year.

Cost

Fares range from $1,100 for a seven-day cruise to over $3,000 for an 18-day transatlantic cruise.

Trip Length

Trips range from seven-day European and Caribbean cruises to the 18-day Transatlantic Sunrise Cruise, which sails through the Caribbean and Mediterranean.

Quick Facts About Thomson Cruises

  • Most cruises include one formal night.
  • Ships have multiple dining venues, including buffet restaurants. Room service is also available. London's celebrity chef Aldo Zilli has opened his first at-sea restaurant on the Celebration.
  • There are a limited number of rooms for passengers using wheelchairs. In order to secure an accessible room, passengers must prebook with Thomson's special assistance team.
  • Entertainment options on board include casinos, movie theaters, shows, musicians and comedians.
  • With Thomson's cruise-and-stay options, guests can extend their vacation with a discounted pre- or post-cruise stay at a Thomson hotel.
  • Thomson has discounted fly-and-cruise packages.
  • The Calypso, Thomson's smallest ship, is known for having the most personalized service of the fleet. Because of its size, the Calypso is able to visit smaller ports.
  • Described as "the most relaxed ship in the fleet," the Island Escape features buffet and casual dining and a relaxed dress code.
  • Guests can choose whether to add such options as a drinks package, which covers most beer, wine and liquor as well as non-alcoholic drinks.
  • There is a 2.5% service charge if you pay for your cruise by credit card.

Contact Information

(44) 0871 231 4691 (Note: this is an international phone call)

www.thomson.co.uk



LifeWire, a part of The New York Times Company, provides original and syndicated online lifestyle content. Michelle Abrams writes about travel and lifestyle issues.
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