Kerry Cansdale - Cruise Specialist - Travel Counsellor

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Kerry Cansdale - Cruise Specialist - Travel Counsellor

Kerry Cansdale - Cruise Specialist - Travel Counsellor The place to look for all the latest information on Cruise Lines and great Cruise Holiday Offers

04/04/2025

Day 5 - Cartagena Columbia

This is my second time to this port.
The last time I was here I booked a private cookery class in the city with a chef through Viatour which was brilliant. This time I decided it would be nice to get off, have a little walk around and then come back to a quiet ship for some sunbathing/pool time.

If you haven’t been here before, when you exit the port you exit through a bird park, parrots, flamingoes, peacocks, toucans, tortoises and much more.

It’s really beautiful and you can get some great photos here.

The main city is around 10-15 mins away by taxi - lots of taxis at the port as you exit.

It’s quite a historic city with a walled part and once inside there are some stunning buildings and architecture.

I found it quite safe but as always be aware, don’t leave the ship with excessive jewellery etc and keep an eye on your belongings.

This afternoon is very much chilling by the pool with a Pina Colada on hand and trying to cope with the heat - it’s super hot around 32 - now some may say that’s not too bad but remember .. I’m English we don’t have weather like this 😂😂

03/04/2025

Day 3 - Boarding Resilient Lady 🛳️
There are two piers in San Juan and one of the reasons I chose the Hotel Rumbao was for its location - literally opposite the Pier, so a very easy and quick stroll to the luggage drop off.

There were a few other ships in as a port of call and boy was it busy - San Juan Old Town is pretty quiet but first thing this morning it was rammed with people.

I had a late checkout at the hotel which was nice as it was so hot outside and I got to stay in the air conditioning a little longer.

With Virgin you can drop your luggage off early from 930am and also do an early check in and then come back at your designated boarding time.

Boarding starts from around 2pm as you don’t have to get off the ship on your last day until 1030am, you choose your boarding time in the app.

Very seamless process, your luggage is tagged for you and then it’s just a short wait to get on board, cabins are ready as soon as you board, you watch the lifeboat drill in your cabin, check in at your muster station and then you free to go enjoy the ship.

My first stop was my favourite place on board The Dock, for some Tapas and my beloved shrimp. (If you have followed me for a while, you will know how I adore these ❤️🍤)

Actual sailaway at San Juan is around 8pm but the fun begins at 530pm with a sailaway party where there is free champagne 🥂 and the hostess introduces all the happenings cast and there is lots of music and dancing.

I had a fab time catching up with friends and crew from past cruises and the bubbles went down very well!

My Top Tips for Today
🛳️ As soon as you have booked your cruise, download the Virgin Voyages App and choose your check in time, the earlier you do this the earlier you will get on board

📱Wi Fi is free on Virgin, connect to the ships WiFi once onboard and you can then book any extras like the Bar Crawl (Grog Walk) specialised dinner shows (another rose) change any dining reservations you may have and view the full line up for what’s happening in the cruise.

🍴If you didn’t manage to prebook all your dining or want different times - head to Razzle Dazzle as soon as you’ve boarded and the crew will help you.

🧳 Drop your luggage off early, giving you extra time to look around the port/Old Town

01/04/2025

This is not an April Fool !!!
It’s Cruise Day!!
And my Resilient Lady is here waiting for me!!

01/04/2025

Day 2 - San Juan 🇵🇷
After such a seamless journey to Atlanta my flight did get delayed and I cannot stress enough how important it is to fly in a day or two earlier when joining a cruise.

✈️I flew first class from Atlanta to San Juan with Delta - I’m not sure if it was just because I was so tired but it definitely didn’t feel like the Upper Class from Virgin, more like a premium seat on say TUI Airlines, I think domestic first class is not like their International first class with the Delta One Seats etc (which are more like Virgin) but it was only a 3hr 15 minute flight so it was ok.

🇵🇷I finally got to San Juan at 3.30am (around 4hrs late) due to the storms currently happening over America, I was lucky, there are lots of others that have much longer delays and even some that may not make it in time to join the ship 😢.

🚕I took an Uber from the Airport to the ship $13 and arrived at the Hotel Rumbao within 15 minutes. A quick shower and fell into bed 😴

🥗Had brunch in a lovely little cafe, strolled around Old Town San Juan and then took an Uber to do my absolute favourite shopping thing when in the States and that is to visit Bath and Bodywork’s 😍

🧳Once again, I got carried away, spent too much and ended up heading to Macy’s to buy another suitcase - note to self : it would be much easier to just bring another suitcase to start with 😜

🥘In the evening I had dinner in the old town at a restaurant called Barrachina, decided to try the local dish famous in Puerto Rico called Mofongo which is made up of plantains that are fried and then served with your choice of prawns, steak, chicken, vegetables etc, I really enjoyed it.

🍹I was surprised that almost everything closes quite early in the Old Town, restaurants around 9pm and bars around 10/1030pm, so headed back to the hotel for a pre bed cocktail on the roof terrace and an early night (for me)

My Top Tips for today :
1) Uber is very good value in San Juan, all the drivers have been really friendly and very knowledgeable about the area. Great recommendations from them for restaurants and things to do.

2) Definitely fly in as a minimum a day earlier, 2 days if you can, especially if not on a direct flight and to somewhere that maybe doesn’t have lots of flights going to the destination.
For me If I was to fly to San Juan again I would probably look at the London- Madrid-San Juan flight as it would be a shorter duration and a closer connection from London.

3) I feel very safe in San Juan, it’s very clean, people are friendly, the Old Town is very pretty and lots to see, pack good shoes to walk around in.

4) Eat local and try something different, yes there are Burger Kings, Cheesecake Factory, Pizza etc but you never know a local dish might become a firm favourite.

5) if you shop a lot in the States - bring another suitcase!! 😂😂

30/03/2025

I willshortly be setting sail on my 14th Virgin Voyage 😍🛳️

Little bit different this time as heading out to San Juan to join the ship for a cruise around the Caribbean - you can follow my journey on here ❤️

Early start this morning for my flight from Heathrow, even earlier with the hour going forward 🤭

Im super excited to be flying Upper Class with Virgin from Heathrow to Atlanta - it’s so special, from your separate drive in checkin area, exclusive security lines and then the Virgin Clubhouse Lounge - it’s the best!

Fab flight across the pond - caught the latest Bad Boys Movie and a couple of hours sleep too. Food was lovely and the Virgin Atlantic crew were super friendly and fab service.

So I was really stressing about transiting in the states, I think aside from once many years ago, I’ve always flown in direct when coming to the states, Atlanta is one of the busiest airports in the states and I was worried as I’m travelling on my own but ….

Atlanta Airport was a breeze, I had downloaded the MPC app but didn’t need it - walked straight up to Immigration desk, collected bags, went through customs, dropped bags off, then security all very simple and lots of people to ask if you are not too sure.

Caught the plane train from terminal F to A and now in the lounge - all in all took about 30 mins from getting off the plane to arriving at the lounge in the domestic terminal.

Looks like my flight to SJU is delayed but not by too much fingers crossed 🤞

I will just say .. the lounges here are nothing like the Virgin Club Lounge at Heathrow 😬

25/03/2025

🌴✨ Embark on a Dream Caribbean Cruise aboard Celebrity Reflection! ✨🌴

Set sail on a 6️⃣ night cruise departing November 13, 2025!

Enjoy stunning destinations and luxurious accommodations, including a 2️⃣ night stay at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Miami before your cruise! 🏨✈️

🚢 Itinerary Highlights:
Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Your journey begins in this vibrant city! 🌞

Bimini, Bahamas: Relax on pristine beaches and explore crystal-clear waters. 🏝️🌊

At Sea: Enjoy onboard activities and unwind in luxury. 😌🍹

Cozumel, Mexico: Discover rich culture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant marine life. 🇲🇽🌺

George Town, Grand Cayman: Experience stunning scenery and incredible snorkeling opportunities. 🐠🐚

At Sea: More time to soak up the sun and enjoy the ship's amenities. 🌅

Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Return home with unforgettable memories! 🌟

🌟 Stay in a Concierge Room onboard Celebrity Reflection:

Included in Your Cruise:
Drinks 🍹
Tips 💵
Wi-Fi 📶

💰 Total Cost: £1️⃣9️⃣2️⃣3️⃣ per person!

🌟 Fly with Virgin Atlantic and make your Caribbean dreams a reality!

Don’t miss out on this incredible cruise experience! Book your spot today! 🗺️

Call me on 01277 840262
Email : [email protected]
✨

21/02/2025

⚓⚓WOW VIRGIN VOYAGE OFFER INCOMING⚓⚓
(its literally Virgin on the Ridiculous 😉 )

Panama Canal October 2026 is officially on Sale Right Now!!

🚢✨ Embark on the ultimate adventure with Virgin Voyages! ✨🚢
Sailing from Los Angeles to Miami, you will cruise through the iconic Panama Canal with unforgettable stops in Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Puntarenas (Costa Rica), and Panama City (Panama), plus there is an overnight in the stunning Cartagena (Columbia).

This journey combines breath-taking vistas, once in a lifetime sights, luxurious amenities, and award-winning experiences!

With multiple sea days, there will also be plenty of time to indulge in:

🍽️ 20+ world-class dining options
💆‍♀️ A rejuvenating spa
🎭 Jaw-dropping entertainment
🎉 And so much more!

Cruise Only Prices - Ask me about Flight Inclusive if required

Based on 2 Share
Inside from £2309pp
Sea View from £2638pp
Sea Terrace from £2859pp with $300 Bar Tab
Rockstar from £7818pp with $300 Bar Tab

Solo Sailors
Inside from £2694pp
Sea View from £3245pp
Sea Terrace from £4947pp with $300 Bar Tab
Rockstar from £14866pp with $300 Bar Tab

Call Me On 01277 840262
Email Me [email protected]

🤩This is one of Virgin Voyage’s most popular cruises and Sold out within days last year, Don’t Delay and Book with me today with a deposit from £150pp 🤩

20/02/2025

Did you know about this?? What a fantastic way to have your very own private Celebration 🤩🥳

With prices from $150 - $375 depending on the activity and whether it is a port or sea day, the Annex can be booked via your My Cruise Planner under onboard activities.

🛳️ The Annex onboard Celebrity Ascent

The Annex, a feature currently only available on Celebrity Ascent, is a private interactive space designed for memorable group experiences!

You can choose from a selection of package experiences including a multi-sport simulator, celebrations, sports broadcasting, movie streaming, and karaoke.

To booking your next Celebrity Cruise call me on 01277 840262 or email me at [email protected]

19/02/2025

‼️AMAZING TRANSATLANTIC DEAL FOR VIRGIN VOYAGES ‼️

👻Including the now world famous Haunted Halloween Soiree 👻

😍Always Included Luxury - WIFI, Tips, All Dining, Soft Drinks, Exercise Classes, Entertainment

✈️Return Flights from London Included (other airports available - please call for details)

📍Prices from just £1578pp

I am a Gold Level Firstmate for Virgin Voyages (the best you can be!) and about to sail on my 14th Virgin Voyage Cruise, by booking with me not only are you booking with a Virgin Voyage Expert you will also have all my knowledge and experience to ensure you have the best Cruise ever!!

Call me on 01277 840262 or email me at [email protected] to book.

14/02/2025

❤️Happy Valentine’s Day❤️
To all my clients and followers

🌹Roses are Red
🌊The Ocean is Blue
🛳️Cruises are amazing
💖And so are you!

11/02/2025

🤩🤩BREAKING NEWS🤩🤩
You do not want to miss this!!!

😱Jack Whitehall will be headlining at the ....
Virgin Voyages UK Comedy Fest😱

Sail on a 6 Night Cruise from Portsmouth on the 30th of August 2025, calling at La Corona, Bilbao, Le Verdon on the newly refurbished Scarlet Lady and enjoy some of the best comedians around.

Prices (these are seriously subject to change and will increase due popularity and availability)

Two Share (Total Price)
Inside from £2100
Sea View from £2320
Balcony from £2610 (limited view and $200 Bar Tab)
Balcony from £2970 (clear view and $200 Bar Tab)
Rockstar from £5100 with $200 Bar Tab and Rockstar Perks

Solo Sailors (Total Price)
Inside from £1910
Sea View from £2140
Balcony from £2430 (Limited view and $200 Bar Tab)
Balcony from £2900 (Clear view and $200 Bar Tab)
Rockstar form £4890 with $200 Bar Tab and Rockstar Perks

I cannot stress how many enquiries I have already taken on this and that availability is going down very quickly.

Call me ☎️on 01277 840262
Email me 💻 [email protected]

Get in touch now for more details/to book!!

07/02/2025

SPECIAL DEPARTURE
SAIGON, CLASSIC MEKONG & ANGKOR WAT
Pandaw River Cruises

19th Feb 2026
13 nights
London
FROM £3,999pp

EARLY BOOKING OFFER
Book by 28th February 2025 and save £1000pp with prices starting from just £3,999 instead of the regular price of £4,999pp.

Join us for a special one-off, fully escorted departure with Fred.Holidays. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of life along the enchanting River Mekong, where Vietnam’s bustling delta meets the serene landscapes of Cambodia. Your journey begins in Saigon, a city steeped in French colonial history, before cruising through the lush delta and crossing into Cambodia’s verdant countryside.

Experience this unique waterway, enjoy a full day in Phnom Penh, and continue to Siem Reap, the gateway to the breath-taking Angkor temples. Explore the iconic Angkor Wat, a masterpiece of Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, and venture off the beaten path to discover hidden temples and the fascinating Tonle Sap by boat.

HIGHLIGHTS
Explore authentic destinations where larger ships cannot sail
Guided sightseeing of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and other iconic and off the beaten track sacred sights
Fully packaged with flights, 5-star hotels and transfers for your convenience

WHAT'S INCLUDED
7 night expedition cruise above the exclusive RV Mekong Pandaw
Enjoy full board on your cruise and English speaking guided sightseeing as described

2 night 5-star hotel stay at the New World hotel in Saigon with breakfast, 2 night 5-star hotel stay at the Borei Angkor Siem Reap with breakfast

Guided sightseeing of Saigon, the Cu Chi Tunnels and Angkor Wat and Evening at the Phare Cambodian Circus

Overseas transfers

International flights from London, regional flights available on request

ABTA and ATOL bonded for your financial protection
Terms and conditions apply, based on 2 sharing. Price is subject to availability and can change at anytime.

Call me on 01277 840262 for more information or email at [email protected]

06/02/2025

JUST ANNOUNCED! 📢 The return of the Disney Dream to the UK in Summer 2026! 🚢

Disney Cruise Line will be bringing back your favourite 3- and 4-night sailings from Southampton to beautiful destinations in Europe.

The Disney Dream will be making her return to the UK with some new magical experiences since her last visit! 💭✨

📲 On sale from 17th February, get in touch today to avoid missing out and let’s start planning your next Disney adventure!

☎️ 01277 840262
📧 [email protected]

21/01/2025

Amazing Princess Cruise Deal for you all ❤️🛳️⚓️

Regal Princess - 18 April 25
6 Night Cruise
Southampton
Falmouth
Cork
Dublin
Belfast
Southampton

From £399pp Inside Cabin or £499pp for a Balcony Cabin

Selling VERY fast so call me on 01277 840262 if you want to book.

17/12/2024

I am absolutely over the moon to announce that I have won the Cruise Star Mentoring Star of The Year Award for 2024. 🤩

This year the Cruise Star Awards had a record amount of entries so to win this award is a huge achievement for me.

It means so much to me as my goal is always to provide as much help as I can to my fellow colleagues and of course to my clients using my vast knowledge on all things cruise to ensure they have the best time on the best Cruise Ship for them.

The award ceremony opened with a statement from Lee Hayhurst stating "It's all about recognising the individuals who go above and beyond, push the boundaries and amplify the voice of cruise" and that truly is me 😍

If you want to book your next cruise with an Award Winning Cruise Agent please get in touch.

Email : [email protected]
Call : 01277 840262

24/10/2024

Resilient Lady is on her way to the USA!!
Check out this fab onboard tour by her very own Happenings Cast and of course the only other person who is more of an expert on all things Virgin Voyages than them is …. ME!! ❤️🔻🛳️ ⚓️

So get in touch if you want to know more about this award winning cruise line!

Email : [email protected]
Call - 01277840262

14/10/2024

Well … the good news just keeps on coming 🥰

I am extremely proud and super happy to announce that I have been shortlisted as a Cruise Star 2024 Finalist 🤩❤️

This is a big award ceremony that will take place in December and will recognise people with exceptional talent and contribution to the Cruise Industry.

To be shortlisted is a HUGE achievement and to be recognised for something I am so passionate about and absolutely love means the world to me.

Thank you so much to those of you that supported me - fingers crossed I can bring this very meaningful award home 🤞🛳️⚓️🏆

03/10/2024

I am super proud and over the moon to announce that I have been chosen as a Cruise Ambassador for my company Travel Counsellors.

Going forward this will mean I will have a lot more contact with all the cruise lines building even stronger relationships, more ship visits and I will be helping to build an even bigger Cruise Business at Travel Counsellors by being on hand for my colleagues for all things cruise related.

It was an Honour to be chosen and a very exciting time for me, as you know I am extremely passionate about Cruise and to be able to share this passion with my colleagues will be amazing, I am looking forward to learning more about all the cruise lines, new ships, new itineraries and sharing this with you, my clients as well.

This role will run alongside what I already do, so of course I am still here ready to assist you all with your next holiday at Sea, I'm so grateful to all of my clients who make my job so easy and love to cruise as much as me.

Look out for regular updates on this page for all things on cruise and to see what I am getting up to.

Sea You Soon
Kerry ###

Address

Telephone

+441277840262

Website

https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/kerry.cansdale

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I have no Cruise Control .. I just LOVE Cruising!!

Hi and welcome to my dedicated page to all things about Cruise.

I am a personal Travel Counsellor with over 30 years of experience and if I was on Mastermind then Cruise would be my specialist subject.

I love Cruising, I love waking up in a different port each day, I love only unpacking once and I love the relaxed way of life on a cruise.

I’ve personally taken over 40 cruises myself with many different Cruise Linest to places such as mini cruises to Europe, the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Asia and the Far East, Australia, Transatlantic, Greek Isles and much more, I’ve loved every cruise I have been on.