by Toni Anne

Created on: March 14, 2009

Up until a month ago, I had never taken a cruise of any kind. My transportation of choice for a vacation has always been by airplane or car. Of course living in the United States, your options are limited based on economic standing. Having recently moved to Greece, I learned that there are several forms of transportation, depending upon where you live. Keeping in mind the various islands surrounding the mainland, cruise ships are available and highly recommended.

My husband and I planned a small excursion to Athens. Knowing I had never traveled by sea, he booked a cabin aboard Blue Star Ferries. These are the most popular cruise lines and very economical. There are several types in their class to include passenger ships, cargo ships, and a combination of both. Our ship, Blue Star One, accommodated both passengers and cargo. I watched from the docking area while large trucks were loaded on the bottom deck. When it was time to board, we rode an escalator to the 2nd level where passengers could check in. It resembled checking into a hotel.

Because we live on Kos Island, south of Athens, the trip took us approximately 12 hours. We boarded at 8 p.m. on the evening prior and arrived at the port of Pireas, Athens around 6 a.m. the following morning. There are cabins of choice, ranging from low cost two-person cabins to luxury suites. For those who do not need a cabin, there are areas called "tourist seating". One can recline in a chair and feel right at home. We were able to be accommodated by a two-person cabin because military personnel, of which my husband is a member, are allowed four tickets per year, using whatever means of travel they choose, cruise ships included.

After getting settled in, we strolled along the corridors, giving me time to explore. There are plenty of large windows to look out of. I could see the island disappear into the night as we made our way across the Aegean Sea. We then climbed to the 3rd level, which contained more cabins, a promenade deck, an indoor swimming pool, and a lounge area. In the summer time, of course, one could go outside on the balcony. I am sure the view is spectacular, which in our case, we were traveling at night and during the winter season. No time to enjoy that luxury.

We made our way back down to the main passenger deck. There are several restaurants to include fine dining, a cocktail lounge, and a cafeteria containing a Goody's fast food place that also serves homemade traditional Greek cuisine. We opted for the traditional

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