SHORE THING-SHOULD I BUY ON BOARD OR DO PRIVATE EXCURSIONS?

It's a question that has been around ever since mainstream cruising really took a hold in the travel market; should I buy the shore excursions offered on board the ship, or should I try and pick up something from an independent contractor ashore? Well, it depends on what you truly value, and how much you really want to see in what is mostly a very limited amount of time ashore in each port.

It is a sad fact that excursions bought on board ships are often way over priced, and sometimes they offer only a very brief glimpse of the local highlights. If this were not the case, the recent tenfold rise in independent shore tour operators would simply not have happened. There is a sense in many quarters- and especially among seasoned passengers- that ship sold shore excursions are often a rip off, and to be avoided at all costs.

On the other hand, buying a ship board excursion means that the vessel will have to wait for you in the event of a delay ashore- and traffic jams in the summer time Mediterranean, for instance, are a fact of life. Many people are prepared to pay simply for that sense of security. And, of course, you will always be travelling in the company of kindred fellow travellers. For many, that sense of peace of mind can be priceless.

Going with an independent local guide is usually cheaper, and can offer a more personalised, in depth way of seeing the highlights of a city. It certainly is more interactive, and allows at least some personal interaction with a local expert. For many seasoned travellers, this kind of 'up close and personal' adventuring is precisely why they choose to travel in the first place. But, in the event of any delays, your ship's captain is under no obligation whatever to wait for your return. It's very much his or her individual choice.

Of course, if a place is really small (for example, Monte Carlo), you could set off and explore on your own. if you've got decent mobility and half a sense of direction, this can be a hugely rewarding way to see somewhere. It allows you to set your own course and stop when you want, whether for lunch, a coffee, or simply a spot of platinum chip people watching.

Whatever you choose, don't forget to be wary of pick pockets; wear as little jewellry as possible, carry only the cash that you think you'll need and, above all, keep yourself properly hydrated while you're out there. Other than that- happy travelleing!