Thank you for your input. I guess I haven't been very specific and I should be.

I'm not looking for a 'party' boat of sorts. I prefer quiet, subdued cruises if they even exist. I've never taken a cruise in my life yet I've always been curious.

I have watched several programs on the Travel Channel about cruising which, unfortunately, makes me quite wary. In particular, since the ships are typically registered outside the US (due to the horrific tax structure set up by Congress), is there any kind of law and order on cruises? I've learned about women who were attacked by overly zealous staff members of these ships. And since cruise ships are on international waters and are registered in Liberia or Norway, for example, there seems to be little a victimized passenger can do. In addition, there was an expose on the lack of adequate medical facilities available on board in case of emergencies. All of this makes me a bit concerned.

It does sound like I'm convincing myself not to go on a cruise but from all that I have heard from friends (typically couples) who do cruise, they love it. Any thoughts?

[This message has been edited by Analise (edited 07-13-2001).]