When it comes to all-inclusive vacations, a cruise is hard to beat

There are many misconceptions about taking a cruise vacation: it's only for old people, it's too structured, activities of bingo and napkin folding classes, afraid of getting seasick and it's too expensive.

I just returned from one of many cruise vacations and have evidence that none of these allegations are true. I will also convince you why a cruise vacation is the best value and offer advice on how you can have the best vacation experience as a first-time cruiser.

The seven-day eastern Caribbean cruise from Fort Lauderdale I was on over the Christmas holiday had passengers of all ages and from many foreign countries. The wide range of multi-generation families, couples and college students on break is far from the passenger lists of a decade ago when average cruisers were 65 and older. This also explains why the activities and entertainment onboard have drastically changed to complement the younger generations onboard.

Fifteen years ago I took my first cruise on the original ship that was used in filming "The Love Boat" television series. I can remember gray-haired men competing driving a golf ball into the Pacific Ocean. I also remember watching passengers target shoot or skeet shoot with a rifle off the bow of the ship. Could you imagine, in our security-driven world these days, giving a stranger a loaded rifle? And, environmentally what impact golf balls and clay pigeons have on the marine life of our oceans. These are the activities of ancient cruising.

Today, there is virtual golf onboard where passengers can play up to 18 holes of golf while at sea. There are also classrooms where you can have a "learning vacation" and improve your computer skills. Onboard instructors have created a full curriculum of courses on Microsoft Office to building your own Web site.

There are the latest yoga and spinning classes offered in the expansive spa and exercise facility. And, ongoing supervised games and crafts for children. Still-in-theater movies are also available free in the theater or in your private cabin television. You can e-mail and search the Web 24 hours a day at the Internet Caf/. And, you can also become a certified scuba diver or learn how to snorkel.

There are art auctions and wine tastings, and seminars on shopping and tours available in ports of call. All of this, or none of this, it's up to you.

There are thousands of lounge chairs available throughout the ship in crowded poolside areas or private nooks to read, sun worship or take a nap. You have choices, many choices to choose from onboard a cruiseship.

You also have many choices when it comes to dining. Fixed seated dining rooms were the only options in the past. Now you can eat practically any time, anywhere onboard a cruise.

A room service menu is available 24 hours a day at no extra charge. Want chocolate cake at 3 a.m.? Dial room service. The expansive buffet is open 24 hours a day with entrees depending on the time of day, but always a full selection of fresh fruit, salad, cheeses and desserts. You will not go hungry, but you won't necessarily gain weight either.

As a rule, I personally never use the elevators onboard. I can walk up or down from Promenade to the Sun decks using the stairs and burn the calories I have consumed.

Dinner is served in several dining rooms including specialty and ethnic choices. Additional charges may apply to some dining choices, but really, a cruise is food all-inclusive and it is delicious.

You are responsible to pay for your beverages. And, there are more than a dozen bars or beverage stations to keep you from getting thirsty. Sign up the first day for endless soda for a flat fee. Each day there are "drink of the day" specials and "mocktails." My favorite beverage was a frozen mocha-chino found at the Plaza Caf/.

I haven't even mentioned the disco, that doesn't even open until 11 p.m. (because I was rarely awake that late), or the casino and entertainment. So you see, it is all there on the ship for your enjoyment. Or, sit on your private balcony and watch the sunset and listen to the wake of the ship.

The best advice I can give a virgin cruiser is to get to know the layout of the ship. Begin before you leave home by studying the Web site and maps of the different decks. Once onboard, I immediately get a copy of the handy pocket map of the ship and figure out where everything is. This is very important. It is frustrating to travel with someone who on the sixth day can't even find the buffet. They have wasted much valuable time wandering in the wrong direction or not being able to find their way to the cabin.

Cruising is for everyone. There is an option to please anyone onboard. And, while at sea, the captain is taking you to a different destination to explore. The best part is you only have to unpack once.

Bon Voyage!