cruise 5 steps

21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

Cruising is easy. Or so cruisers will tell you.

For starters, you only have to unpack once, even as you travel from place to place. You also don't have to go hunting for a restaurant every night. There usually are a bunch just steps away from your cabin with tables waiting for you. You'll also have no trouble finding entertainment.

But even in its simplicity, cruising still can be daunting for a first-timer. What should you bring? What should you plan on doing in ports? What is the best way to book?

As the head of The Points Guy's cruise content team , I get these sorts of questions all the time.

This brings me to the tips below. If you've read this far, you are likely a first-time cruiser looking for advice for an upcoming trip, and that's exactly what this story is meant to offer. It contains my list of 21 ways to make your first sailing go more smoothly.

It's a list drawn not just from my own experience over 25-plus years of cruising but also the observations of more than 100 cruising fans who shared their tips with TPG in a lively conversation on the topic at the TPG Lounge on Facebook. (If you're not a member yet, we highly encourage you to join.)

Arrive at your departure port a day ahead of schedule

If you only follow one piece of advice in this story, it should be this one. It is the only way to ensure you won't miss your ship — something that happens to cruisers more often than you would think.

Many cruises depart in the afternoon, so it might seem just fine to fly or drive to a port on the morning of departure. But all it takes is a moderate flight delay or a pile-up on the highway to upset those plans. If you're delayed in your arrival at the port, the ship will not wait for you.

If you're traveling overseas for a cruise, we recommend traveling to the port two or even three days in advance. This isn't just so you don't miss the ship. It's also so you have some time to recover from jet lag. European cruises, in particular, can be port-intensive, with lots of touring, so you want to be refreshed and ready to hit the ground running right after the cruise begins.

Related: What happens if you miss your cruise ship

Pack your bathing suit in your carry-on

When you first arrive at a ship, before you even get on board, you'll likely be greeted by porters who will whisk away your luggage. It will be delivered to your room later in the day. This is a great convenience, as there's no need to haul your bags through the entire check-in progress. But it also means you might not have access to your luggage for many hours on your first day on board.

Be sure to pack anything you think you might need for these first hours of your cruise in your carry-on bag. This means things like medication, for sure, but also a phone charger, a bathing suit, a hat, sunscreen and other items that will let you head straight to the pool deck to start the fun.

Related: Use this packing list for your next cruise

Don't overpack

Use this strategy when packing for a cruise: Throw all the clothes you think you'll need on a cruise in a pile, and then take away half of them. You won't need them. Trust us.

Most cruising these days is casual, and you really only need a few outfits to rotate through a voyage. If things get dirty, it's no problem. Many ships have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks where you can run a load or two of laundry every few days. If not, you can send laundry out to be cleaned on board. It'll usually come back in a day or two.

The extra cost of doing a few loads of laundry on a ship is a small price to pay for the freedom of not having to lug a giant suitcase around as you travel to and from your ship. Plus, you'll want to save room in your suitcase for all the little treasures you're going to find along the way.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry service

Bring your own drinks on board

Many first-time cruisers assume they can't bring their own drinks on board a ship. But many lines will allow this, usually with some limits. It's one way to save money when cruising, as drink prices on ships can be high.

Among the lines that will allow you to be your own bartender is Disney Cruise Line . Adults can bring up to two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne or six beers onto Disney ships at the start of a cruise and at every port of call. Note that these beverages must be packed in carry-on bags. At Royal Caribbean , the bring-your-own allowance is one bottle of wine or Champagne per passenger at boarding. You can also bring up to a dozen standard cans, bottles or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks per cabin.

One caveat: Many lines levy a "corkage fee" if you want to bring your wine into an onboard restaurant. Be sure to read the rules for your line before you bring any drinks on board.

Related: Are drink packages on cruise ships worth it? A line-by-line guide

Bring extra toiletries

Yes, you'll be able to find sunscreen, aspirin and Band-Aids on a cruise ship. But it'll cost you. Cruise lines know you're a captive audience and price their shipboard stores accordingly.

I have a small "go bag" of over-the-counter medicines that I throw into my suitcase for every cruise. It contains everything from cold medicine to seasickness pills. I rarely use any of it, but I also never get hit with a ridiculous toiletries charge.

While we're on the topic of sundries, don't forget extra batteries for your camera if you are bringing one.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

Bring these six other things, too

In addition to extra toiletries, cruising regulars often bring Clorox wipes or something similar to wipe down surfaces in their cabin upon arrival (and to bring along onshore excursions). I admit, I've never done this, though I know I should — if only to wipe off the remote control for the cabin TV.

Many cruisers also won't head to a ship without room freshener, a foldable shoe rack (which they hang in the cabin bathroom to store toiletries), a highlighter (to highlight activities on the daily planner) and a lanyard (to hold their cabin keycard). I am, of course, too cool to ever put a keycard lanyard around my neck, which means I lose my card once or twice on every trip. They always give me a new one at the front desk. My cruise team colleague Ashley Kosciolek also eschews lanyard-wearing on ships, but that didn't stop her from writing this wonderful guide to the coolest cruise lanyards around.

Some cruisers also swear by bringing magnets to ships to affix dinner invitations, excursion tickets and other important papers to their cabin walls. Walls on ships often are made with metal (even if they look like wood, thanks to faux wood veneers) and will hold a magnet. Some cruisers even bring magnets with hooks so they can hang up clothes and other items on their walls.

Related: 20 things you should bring on every cruise — including a roll of duct tape

Skip the buffet on your first day on board

There's nothing more jammed than a cruise ship buffet on embarkation day. Everybody boarding heads straight up to it. To avoid the first-day buffet crowds, head to whatever secondary dining option is available. Sometimes, a ship will open one of its table-served eateries for lunch on embarkation day. It'll likely be much less crowded than the buffet.

Research ports in advance

There are some types of vacations — a beach trip, for instance — where you don't have to do much advanced research. You just sort of show up. Most cruises aren't this way — at least if you want to get the most out of them. At the heart of most cruises are port calls that, in many cases, are very short — often just a few hours. You want to have a plan for what to do in these ports, or you'll miss out on a big part of the cruising experience.

Once you know what ports you'll be visiting, research them as much as you can at travel sites such as The Points Guy. Here at TPG, we're starting to build out a series of home port and destination port guides for everywhere, from PortMiami to Bora Bora .

Related: The ultimate guide to Caribbean cruising

Join a Facebook group for your line

Another great place to get ideas for what to do in ports and on ships — and what to bring on a cruise, for that matter — are the many private Facebook groups dedicated to particular lines. I belong to a number of them, including the Royal Caribbean Cruises group, the COPs (Cruisers Opinion Page) group and the Holland America Line Fans group. You'll find thousands of cruise fans at these pages who often are more than willing to answer questions about their favorite line, its ships, its itineraries and the destinations on the itineraries. I've met some wonderful people in these groups, some of whom have become my longtime friends on Facebook.

Sign up for private tours

Booking a shore excursion directly through your cruise line is easy. You just check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it's all arranged. But booking tours through your line isn't the only option, and it's not always the best option. In many cases, you can save a lot of money — and get a better touring experience — by booking shore excursions through independent tour operators in ports or a tour booking service such as Viator or ToursByLocals .

Often, independent tours will be much more intimate than the tours offered directly through cruise lines. They might go to the same sites but in a small van instead of a big motorcoach. You might have just six or eight other people on a tour with you instead of nearly 40. If your group is big enough, you might even be able to book a private tour with an independent tour operator.

Related: The ultimate TPG guide to shore excursions

Independent tours can also take you to places that the cruise line-organized tours don't. Plus, they often come with excellent service. ToursByLocals has staff on hand around the clock to respond to questions, and — for those worried about missing your ship — they offer a return-to-ship guarantee with every tour.

Sign up for activities in advance or soon after boarding

Some lines will let you sign up for shows, tours and other activities (including meals at specialty restaurants) in advance of sailing using online portals. If you want to be sure that you get a seat for a specific show on a specific night or a specific tour or restaurant reservation time, it's a good idea to do this. It's not uncommon with some ships to find that some shows, tours and restaurant reservation times book up in advance.

If you don't sign up for activities in advance, a backup strategy is to do so just after you board a vessel. That said, whether you need to race to sign up for activities at the start of a voyage depends a lot on which ship you are on. I am more careful about signing up for many things in advance when I am sailing on a giant ship such as Royal Caribbean's record-breaking Wonder of the Seas, where thousands of other passengers are competing for the choicest reservations.

Related: 15 giant ships that are the best for fun

Don't feel like you have to do it all

While we're on the topic of signing up for activities, note that it's OK if you miss a few things. You don't have to do it all. In fact, you should force yourself to try to not do it all. Remember, you're on vacation. Relax. Take some downtime. Sit on your balcony, if you have one, and just stare out at the ocean for a couple of hours. You won't regret it.

Always carry the ship's contact information with you

When going ashore, always bring the ship's contact information with you. Those details are usually printed in the newsletter that's delivered to your cabin each night. If something goes wrong when you're away from the ship, you'll want to get in contact with the cruise line right away.

Keep your phone in airplane mode

Some of the biggest cruise ship horror stories you'll find on the internet are tales of cruising newbies who racked up thousands of dollars in cellphone charges while on ships. This can happen when you leave your phone turned on and, say, watch videos on the internet. Many phone plans — even international plans — do not include talking, texting and data on cruise ships, and you'll pay exorbitant roaming rates for such services that will show up weeks later on your phone bill.

There are ways to make calls and access the internet from ships without spending a boatload of money. You can buy a Wi-Fi package, for instance, that will let you make FaceTime calls and stream videos (on some ships) over Wi-Fi without using phone data.

Some phone companies have cruise-specific plans you can buy in advance of a voyage. But I personally never go that route. I keep it simple. I just put my phone in airplane mode the moment I step on board a ship and never switch it back on. I then turn on the phone's Wi-Fi, buy a Wi-Fi package and do all my calling, texting and internet surfing over Wi-Fi. That way, there's no way that I can be surprised by an unexpected charge.

Download the cruise app

A growing number of lines now have apps that you can download to your smartphone in advance of sailing. The apps vary in what they offer, but many will show you a daily list of activities and all of the things that you have reserved. Many also will let you make restaurant reservations and book shore excursions and other activities, and a few will let you order drinks and other items to wherever you happen to be standing. That's pretty cool, right? The best part: The apps will work on board even if you don't pay for a Wi-Fi package.

Related: The best cruise apps to streamline your vacation at sea

Use a travel agent to book

Given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you arrange things. A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. The agent can also help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

In addition, travel agents can often secure you extra onboard credit and other perks that you might not be able to get by booking directly with a line.

Related: Why you should always use a travel agent to book a cruise

Consider travel insurance

It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising — or any sort of travel. We hate to even bring it up, but you might need to cancel your cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness. Or, maybe you'll fall ill during the cruise and need emergency medical attention. Maybe your flight to your ship gets canceled, and you miss the vessel's departure. These sorts of things can happen to cruisers, and they're all the sort of situations where you might benefit from having travel insurance. Here's a comparison of the top travel insurance providers and information about "cancel for any reason" add-ons .

Related: The TPG guide to travel insurance for cruises

Don't book a cabin near an elevator

Not every cabin on a ship is created equal. When choosing a room on your first cruise, you might want to stay away from those near elevators and just above nightclubs and other late-night venues. They can sometimes be noisy. Cabins just below the pool deck and near the anchor also can be problematic as well as cabins near casinos.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

Use a points card for onboard spending

You saw this one coming, no? Given TPG's origins as a points and miles website , we'd be remiss if we didn't remind you to maximize your credit card points while making purchases on ships. The way to do this is to tie a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases to your onboard account. This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on dining.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Don't tip twice for drinks and spa treatments

Most cruise ships now automatically add a gratuity to bar bills, often in the amount of 18% to 20% of the total. Such automatic gratuities are also becoming more common in ship spas. But many first-time cruisers don't know this and write in a hefty tip at the "additional tip" line on bills at cruise ship bars and spas. Be sure to ask if a gratuity has already been included before adding another 15% or 20% to the total. Otherwise, you may end up tipping twice.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on a cruise ship

Use points to get to your cruise

Using points and miles to pay for a cruise doesn't always make sense , as it often requires a huge number of them to secure a cabin. But that doesn't mean you can't save big time by booking your flights to and from a ship using points and miles .

You'll find plenty of stories here at The Points Guy about how to, say, pay the equivalent of $1,330 in points for a flight that costs $16,000 or book a $27,000 around-the-world trip for just $168 in out-of-pocket costs . Scroll around a little, and you may never pay cash for a flight to a cruise ship again.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
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• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
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• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
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• Faster to the Fun
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• CocoCay Tips
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• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
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• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
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• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
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57 Must-Have Tips, Advice, and Info For First-Time Cruisers

Taking your first cruise? The only thing that can match the excitement of an upcoming vacation is the overwhelmed feeling that comes with trying to navigate and plan for your first trip. We’ve been there. Our first cruise, we had no idea what to expect.

From embarkation on cruise day to dining to shore excursions, everything you do on a cruise is just a little different than any other vacation you’ve ever been on. That’s why we’ve taken the time to round up a boatload of tips — 57 to be exact — that will help you know better about what to expect come cruise day. These are all tips we’ve learned over more than a decade — and dozens — of cruises.

From the basic details of cruising to how to save some cash — and much more — we’ve got everything you need to be confident and enjoy your trip the second you reach the port.

Note:  This article contains links to Amazon that are affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.

1. Don’t Worry About Cash on Board; Everything Is Paid Through Your Room Key

When you go through check-in, you’ll receive the key to your room. (Check-in online ahead of time? It may be in a sealed envelope at your cabin door.) This “key” is actually like a credit card that you’ll slide into your cabin door to unlock it. But it does a lot more. It’s also linked to your shipboard account, and you’ll use your room key just like a credit card to charge items to your account.

No matter if you’re buying a drink or a souvenir on one of the ships, you’ll use this card to pay. The only time you’ll use cash is when you are off the ship in port ( here’s how much cash to bring ). This is much more convenient than having to carry around dollars. Just be sure to keep a close hold on your card!

2. Interior Cabins Are Fine For First-Time Cruisers

Wondering if you should get an interior cabin or a balcony room? Don’t sweat it. Balconies are great, but there are some big advantages for interior cabins . As a first-time cruiser, it’s doubtful you’ll be spending much time in your room anyway as you’ll want to be out and about exploring. Having an interior cabin is a cheaper way to get on your first sailing without breaking the bank.

3. Balcony Rooms Are Worth It

As we just said, interior cabins are great for first-time cruisers who are usually out around the ship the entire trip. But if you do decide to spring for a balcony room, it’s well worth it.

This is especially the case if you’re the sort of person who likes to take your time getting ready in the morning while sipping on a cup of coffee or just having your own private space to take in the view. Having the fresh air — and the million-dollar views — from your balcony is worth the extra cost if you want to pay a little more for your trip.

4. What to Expect With Security at Check-In

Who isn’t turned off by the intrusive security at airports these days? From having to empty water bottles, to taking off shoes, to raising your hands and being scanned by a machine, it’s awful. Thankfully, cruise security is much more like flying used to be.

Enter the terminal and then you’ll have to pass through a security checkpoint. You’ll step through a metal detector and your bags will go on an x-ray machine. The security process takes just a few seconds. There aren’t highly intrusive screening measures in place such as pat-downs, you don’t have to remove your belt or shoes, and you don’t have limits on liquids.

5. Book Packages Ahead of Time for a Discount

Any veteran cruise passenger knows the best way to save some cash is to book packages ahead of your cruise. Things like drink packages and wi-fi are discounted through your online account before your cruise. Cruise lines offer this incentive to get you to book early and spend more money. Still, if you’re going to buy the packages anyway, it’s worth it.

The savings can be substantial versus the onboard prices, such as drink packages offered for buy one, get one 50% off. 

6. Passports Are Better Than Birth Certificates

One nice thing about cruises is that many trips allow you to sail with only a birth certificate and photo ID (if the cruise begins and ends in the same port). If you don’t have a passport, you can still leave the country and don’t have to go through the hassle and expense of obtaining one.

Even so, it’s much smarter to sail with a passport. Not only does it come in handy should you need to leave the ship early due to an emergency, but it can also save you time. These days many ports use facial recognition matched with your passport for entering the country. Snap a photo and you’re on your way home. Those with birth certificates sometimes still wait in line to be checked by an officer.

7. Don’t Worry About Changing Money in Port

Headed to the Caribbean? It’s likely you’ll visit several countries — with several different currencies — within just a few days. The good news is you don’t have to think about converting currencies at each port. The ports you visit thrive on tourism and make things easy for tourists. They will all gladly accept U.S. dollars, and often take credit cards. Just bring some smaller bills for your port days and you’ll be all set.

8. Take Advantage of Drink Policies to Bring Things On

When you get on a ship there is no shortage of places to spend money. That’s why we suggest passengers take advantage of any chance they have to save.

Case in point: Carnival and Royal Caribbean — two of the biggest players in cruising — allow you to bring on 12 cans of non-alcoholic drinks . 

Considering that soft drinks are about $3 each on a cruise, that can save you a nice chunk of change. As well, it allows you to bring your favorite non-alcoholic drink with you in case it isn’t served on the ship.

9. Order Multiples in the Main Dining Room

Most people don’t realize it, but the cruise lines will often bend over backwards to make you happy. Case in point: You can order multiple items from the dining room menu.

So say you want an appetizer, but can’t choose between two of them. Don’t choose. Instead, just order them both.

This makes it a great way to try dishes that are out of your comfort zone. If you don’t end up liking it, then there’s no big loss since the dining room food is included. (Some lines may charge a small fee for multiple entrees.)

10. Yes, You Can Bring (Some) Alcohol on Board

Cruise lines know that people want to let loose and have a drink (or ten!) on the cruise. That’s why they charge high prices for their booze. Still, most cruise lines allow you to bring aboard some alcohol when you embark at the start of your trip. It’s very restrictive in that it’s typically only a bottle or two of champagne. Still, we recommend taking advantage as it’s much cheaper than buying drinks once on the ship.

11. Do the Math Before Booking the “All You Can Drink” Packages

If you’ve been tempted by the drink packages, do the math before you buy it. Drink packages seem like good deals, but the rules can make them quite pricey. For instance, many cruise lines force each person in a cabin to buy the package if any passenger buys it. As well, you have to buy the package for the entire cruise.

That means even on days when you are in port (and not on the ship for most of the day), you’re still paying for the package. Finally, with high daily prices, you usually have to drink 7-10 drinks each and every day you are on the cruise to come out ahead.

For many passengers, they are actually better off buying drinks individually . (Use our Drink Package Calculator to see if you’re better off with a package.)

12. Take Your Time, Reduce the Lines

Want to board first? Want to be first off the ship? Great, hope you like standing in line. Today’s ships carry more than 5,000 passengers at a time. That means there are usually lines for everything, especially right when they open like when it’s time to board the ship. We’d suggest simply taking your time and don’t worry about being anywhere right when it opens. It will mean you spend less of your vacation waiting around and more time enjoying your trip.

13. Parking at the Port Is Convenient, But There Are Cheaper Options

If you’re driving to the cruise port, then you should know that it doesn’t get any more convenient than with the official port parking lots. They are typically right at the cruise terminal, so you unload and head right to check-in. Of course, they charge for that convenience.

If you search for parking lots near the port , you can usually find independent lots that are nearly as convenient, but at a sharp discount to parking at the port. These lots almost always offer a free shuttle to drop you off right at the ship as well.

14. Many Hotels Offer Free Cruise Parking

Plan to stay in town the night before your cruise? If you’re driving in, look for a hotel that offers a cruise parking special . As an incentive to attract guests, many hotels (especially in smaller port cities like Galveston) offer free parking if you stay a night with them. It’s an easy way to save a bundle, but only if you planned to stay the night anyway. It’s typically not worth it to stay just to get free parking.

15. There’s No Bill to Sign (or Tip to Leave) in the Dining Room

Tipping is a fact of life on a cruise. And cruise lines have included gratuities with your cruise fare or charged daily to your account, so they are taken care of automatically. That means when you eat in the free restaurants on the ship like the buffet and the main dining room, there’s no bill to pay or tip to leave.

It can feel a little wrong the first time, but when you are done with dinner, you simply get up and walk out.

Now, this doesn’t go for specialty restaurants that are a fee. If you eat there you’re expected to sign the bill to confirm the charge, and the gratuity is tacked onto the price.

16. Turn Your Phone On Airplane Mode Once on the Ship

There are horror stories of people coming back from their cruise with unexpected cell phone charges. The reason is either they use their phone willingly without realizing they are connected to a “roaming” tower or their phone used data without their knowledge for things like updating apps or downloading messages. No matter the reason, you don’t want to accidentally get dinged with a sky-high phone bill. Put your phone on airplane mode before your cruise leaves the shore.

You should also turn on the wi-fi, which will allow you to connect for free to the cruise line’s app. You can also pay to connect to the ship’s wi-fi and use your phone as normal.

17. Yes, You Can Hear Through the Walls (So Keep it Down)

If you’re worried about sounds traveling through the walls, you should be. To be clear, the walls are not paper thin, so you won’t hear the cabin next to you watching a TV at a normal volume. But if you are the type that makes a lot of noise (ahem… enjoying your vacation with your partner, perhaps?), then you should try to keep it down. You’ll also be able to hear people in the halls through the door.

18. The Main Dining Room Serves Breakfast and Lunch

Most passengers will eat their dinner in the main dining room, but they actually serve breakfast and lunch there too. The buffet is quick and easy for these meals, but the quality and freshness is usually lower than what you’ll get in the dining rooms. Head over if you want something a little better.

19. It’s a Ship… Not a Boat

It’s not a big deal, but just so you don’t sound like a rookie cruiser, it’s good to understand the terminology. It is a cruise ship that you are sailing on. Calling it a boat during the trip may get you funny looks. 

There’s no real cut-off on what is a considered a boat, versus a ship — other than ships are known as large ocean-going vessels. There’s no doubt that the size and scale of any cruise ship you sail will definitely put them firmly in the “ship” category.

20. Ports of Call Aren’t Always Disneyland

With everything seemingly so perfect on the ship, it can be easy to think that ports of call are perfect as well. To be fair, ports you visit will be pretty safe, especially in the tourist areas. Venture outside of these spots, however, and it’s just like any other place. There are good parts of town and places where you don’t want to venture.

Odds are you won’t find these spots without looking for them, but be aware of your surroundings at all times and don’t do anything like flash lots of cash or wear tons of fancy jewelry. It’s also a good idea not to drink too much in port to keep your wits about you.

21. Cruise Insurance? Always a Good Idea to Have

The fact is that most people will never use the travel insurance that they buy. Still, if something goes wrong at sea, it’s a great thing to have. Travel insurance can help cover costs of getting sick or injured in a foreign country, as well as compensate you for travel delays, lost baggage and more. If you’re on the fence about buying insurance, we’d suggest doing so. You can read more about travel insurance and what it covers here .

22. Be Ready for Itinerary Changes

Have your heart set on Cozumel? Can’t wait for that private island? Just know that cruise itineraries can change for any number of reasons. Whether it be an issue with the ship, weather, or even riots in port (yes, this has happened). Often the cruise lines will try to sub one port for another, but it isn’t unheard of for them just to scrap a stop in port altogether. Keep in mind that this is a fairly rare occurrence, but it does happen.

23. Don’t Use Cruise Line Transfers to the Port; They’re a Lousy Deal

If you’re flying in for your cruise, then you’re going to need a ride to the cruise port. Cruise lines are happy to offer this service, for a price. All the cruise lines will offer a shuttle that runs from the airport to the cruise port, but the catch is they are expensive.

For example, Carnival offers a ride from Miami International to the port for about $23 per person, one way. The trip is only about 15 minutes and an Uber costs about $25 for the trip. In other words, a roundtrip on the cruise shuttle would cost $184 for a family of four, but only around $50 with Uber or Lyft.

24. Don’t Waste Time Searching For a Deal; Fares Are the Same on Every Website

If you think you’re going to find some hidden deal, stop stressing. Every cruise website offers the same fares these days . Here’s the results of a recent search we did for an upcoming cruise, pricing it out across several sites:

Our advice? Book directly with the cruise line to cut out the middleman in case there is an issue with your reservation. If you don’t know what cruise line you want to sail, then an aggregator like Expedia can search multiple lines at once.

25. Yes, There’s a Hair Dryer in Your Cabin

Save the space and leave the hair dryer at home. Each cabin comes with a hair dryer for your use. They usually aren’t fancy, but get the job done. Even better, let the breeze on the top deck dry your hair for you (that’s a joke… sea hair is a real thing!)

You’ll normally find it in the built-in console in the main part of the cabin, not in the bathroom.

26. Outlet Adapters Are a Must-Have

From portable fans to laptop and tablet chargers to nightlights to curling irons, the need for outlets in a cruise cabin is always increasing. That’s why we suggest bringing aboard an outlet adapter like this one to plug in and give you more free plugs.

One thing to know — adapters with surge protectors are forbidden. A simple multi-plug adapter is all you really need, and it’s worth its weight in gold.

27. Cabins Get Very Dark; Bring a Night Light

There’s nothing worse than being in an unfamiliar, dark cabin and having to get up in the middle of the night to use the restroom. Save yourself from walking into furniture and stubbing your toe by packing a simple plug-in nightlight . It’s especially helpful if you’re in an interior cabin where there are no windows to provide outside illumination.

28. Every Cabin Comes With a Safe; Use it

When you leave your cabin, be sure to put any valuables in the cabin safe. No, it’s not perfect, but it acts as a good deterrent from crimes of convenience and provides you with a little peace of mind. The safes aren’t that big, but will hold cash, jewelry, phones and passports with plenty of room to spare.

29. Your Balcony Isn’t as Private as You Think

The cruise line might sell it as a private balcony, but there isn’t a whole lot of privacy. Your balcony on your cabin will have walls that shield you from the adjoining cabins, but the walls often don’t go from the floor to ceiling. They can easily be looked under or above, and someone could look around the side of them if they really wanted to. Keep this in mind if you’re out on the balcony when the mood for romance strikes .

30. Drink in Port to Save Cash Versus on the Ship

We all know drinking is part of cruise culture, but the cost can soar quickly. Beers cost about $8 on the ship. Cocktails usually run $12-$14.That’s why it’s a good idea to head to port if you want to get your money’s worth.

Most of the party bars near the cruise terminals in the Caribbean will have drink specials designed to get you in the door. It’s often much cheaper than drinking at a ship’s bar.

31. Taking the Stairs Is Faster If Traveling Only a Few Decks

With upwards of 20 decks on some cruise ships, going up and down via stairs is time-consuming… and tiring. But with so many people using the elevators, it’s common to have to wait awhile before you get one. That’s why if you are only going up or down three decks or fewer, it’s usually faster to take the stairs. Plus, it will help you work off some of those buffet calories.

32. Don’t Stress: Formal Night Isn’t a Big Deal

No, you don’t have to buy a tux or an evening gown for your cruise. You won’t be out of place if you do, but formal night actually isn’t that big of a deal. On these nights, plenty of people dress up, while others just put on a pair of nice pants and a button-down shirt. Our advice? Just keep it a step above poolside casual  (so no shorts or t-shirts) and you’ll be just fine.

33. Don’t Tip Twice! Gratuity Is Usually Automatic

Grab a drink from the bar? Your bill will typically include a gratuity automatically (normally 18%). Keep this in mind and double-check the itemized receipt before you sign as there is often another line for write-in tips. Unless the service was simply above and beyond, there is no reason to give a second tip on your drink.

34. You’ll Get Sunburned Much More Quickly in the Tropics

Everyone tells you to be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen on your cruise, but they don’t tell you why. At lower latitudes the sun’s rays are more direct. The result is that you can get burned being exposed to the sun for as little as 10 minutes if you aren’t used to it. So yes, wear the sunscreen, as well as a broad-brimmed hat to keep the UV rays off you as much as possible. The last thing you want is to look like a lobster on the second day of a week-long cruise.

35. Cruise on Older Ships to Save Money

News stories always hype up the biggest, newest cruise ships, and the cruise lines charge a pretty penny for sailings on these ships. If you’re looking to save money, look for trips that sail on older vessels.

These ships are still in great shape (and are often refurbished), but offer fares that are hundreds of dollars less than a similar sailing on a new member of the fleet.

36. Pack as Much as You Want, But Be Smart

Most of us are used to air travel, where you are charged sky-high fees for checking in baggage. Cruise ships are completely different.

There are no fees for luggage and no hard rules for how much you can bring. It’s a nice change of pace from flying, but don’t go crazy. Remember that even though you can bring more on board, you still have to lug all that luggage around. Lighter is better. If you’re bringing more than one large bag for a week-long cruise, then you’re packing too much.

37. Don’t Cruise If You Have a Warrant For Your Arrest

Traffic ticket that you never cleared up? Some other run-in with the law? If you have a warrant, don’t think about taking your first cruise. It’s a well-known tactic by law enforcement to check the passenger manifest against those with outstanding warrants. They often let the passengers sail on the cruise, and bust them when they come back . Get it cleared up before and you won’t have anything to worry about.

38. Worried About Seasickness? Here’s What to Know

If you fear being seasick, the good news is that most times you don’t even feel the ocean. That’s not to say you won’t feel occasional bumps or rocking, but if you’re expecting to move with the ocean, it doesn’t happen much. In fact, ships are so stable they often have pool tables onboard.

But if you are worried about it, then just pack some motion sickness medication or patches. You can also look for a cabin that is as low and close to the middle of the ship as possible.

The action of the waves causes the ship to pitch up and down the most at the end of the ship, with the middle acting as the fulcrum on a see-saw. There’s no guarantee you won’t feel the motion, but it should be better than getting a room toward the front or back of the ship.

39. Avoid Lines By Visiting Guest Services Late at Night or Early in the Morning

Chances are decent you’ll need to visit Guest Services as least once during your trip. If you do have to go to ask something about a reservation or your account, try to time your visit to off-hours (the desk is open 24 hours a day). Times like just before dinner can see long lines, when you’d rather be out enjoying yourself. Early in the morning (before 8 a.m.) and late at night (after 9 p.m.) are the best times to see the shortest lines. You also see shorter lines in the middle of the cruise.

40. Wait For People to Exit the Elevators Before Trying to Get In

Elevators are the heartbeat of the ship. With 5,000 cruise passengers trying to go up and down on more than a dozen decks, elevators are constantly busy, no matter the time of day. That’s why you should always wait to enter only after people have gotten out. It’s polite, but it also makes getting on and off much easier. Just stand far enough back to give people plenty of space to exit and then enter only after your sure everyone is off. 

41. Pack a Small Fan For Your Cabin

While every cabin has air conditioning, they don’t have fans of any kind. That’s not an issue if you have a balcony and open your door, but any interior room is going to get a little stuffy — especially if you’re the sort of person that’s used to airflow. Luckily, you can bring aboard a portable fan like this one . As a bonus, a fan makes a great white-noise machine to help drown out any sounds from neighboring cabins.

42. Wear Sandals With Thick Tread Around the Ship

If you have a pair of cheap flip-flops that you like wearing around the pool, then it’s time to upgrade. Those sandals usually have slick bottoms that get worn down easy. When you hit a puddle, it’s easy to lose your grip and slip. On a ship, there are way too many places where you can slip and fall — especially around the pool. Upgrade to a pair that has a nice rubberized sole with plenty of tread.

43. What to Take Into Port With You

When you’re headed into port, the only two things you have to take with you are your ship keycard (it’s used to check you on/off the ship) and a photo ID if you’re 16 or older. Some people bring passports, but they aren’t required. 

Apart from that, you just want to bring whatever you might want or need for the day. If headed to the beach, we suggest a towel (beach towels are provided on the ship and can be taken into port), some cash, sunscreen, a hat, and walking shoes. 

44. Your Casino Payouts Can Be Worse Than on Land

If you want to gamble, a cruise ship offers plenty of opportunity. Nearly every cruise ship offers a casino . Just don’t expect great payouts. For example, on most ships blackjack pays 6-to-5 instead of the usual 3-to-2. Craps games heavily limit the amount of odds bets you can make. Video poker offers lower paybacks than the optimum pay table.

Head to the casino, enjoy yourself, but don’t think you’re getting a great deal.

45. Always Pack Some Cool-Weather Gear

Even if you are headed to the sunny Caribbean, it’s still a good idea to bring some warm clothes. When the ship is sailing and the sun has gone down, the combination of cooler temps and a strong breeze make it downright chilly on the deck. In addition, many spots around the ship are well air-conditioned, meaning you can be cool indoors as well.

46. Sail During the Summer/Spring Break for Younger Crowds

If you want to hang out with a younger crowd, then the time of year you sail is the biggest factor as to who you will sail with. Ships see younger crowds when school is out — Spring Break, Christmas, and Summer Break.

And if you’re looking to avoid younger folks and have a quieter cruise, then try to sail when school is in session and people are heading back to work. Months of January and February, as well as September and October will see older crowds compared to summer.

47. Save Hundreds By Sailing Off-Season

The rule of thumb is that cruises are most expensive when school is out. That’s because more people are able to take trips, driving up demand. So if you’re flexible with your dates, you can sail during off-season months like January or October and save some considerable money . The same trip sailing in late January can be 50% the cost of the same sailing that departs at the peak of summer.

48. Shorter Cruises = More Party-Like Atmosphere

If you want to have a calmer, quieter cruise, then look for trips that are seven days or more. Shorter cruises, which are less-expensive overall, tend to attract younger and more energetic crowds. That’s not to say it’s going to be like Mardi Gras, but shorter cruises — especially those traveling during the summer months — will definitely be a bit rowdier than what you’ll see from a week-long trip.

49. Invest in a Good Dry-Bag For Shore Days 

If you’re sailing to the Caribbean, the first image that comes to mind is white, sandy beaches and clear water. But what do you do with your cash, wallet, phone, and anything else you don’t want to get wet?

You can either leave it on shore as you swim or risk it getting soaked in the water. That’s why a dry-bag like this one is a great investment. It’s cheap, compact, and keeps all your stuff safe and sound.

50. Go Ahead, Splurge on Shore Excursions (Worth It)

Your first thought when you see the prices of shore excursions is that they are expensive. It’s not unusual for a shore excursion that is just 3-4 hours run more than $100 per person. But we think this is one spot to splurge on your trip.

Excursions give you a chance to do things you won’t have the opportunity to do anywhere else in the world — from exploring ancient ruins to taking a submarine under the Caribbean . After your trip you won’t remember the money you spent, but you won’t forget the experience you had.

51. Be Prepared for Hundreds in Port Fees and Gratuities

Cruise lines advertise ridiculously low fares. Well, just know that they are just the start of what you’ll pay. In addition, you’ll have to pay taxes and port fees, which can run into the hundreds depending on your specific trip. Add to that gratuities, which run about $18 per person, per day. Combined, these fees can add considerably to the cost of your cruise. Be prepared.

Note: Following a new law in California, cruise lines now advertise port fee and taxes in the price of the cruise, making pricing much more transparent from the start.

52. Keeping in Touch is Expensive (Internet Access)

Want to check email, surf the web, or call/text back home? Prepare to pay. Out at sea, the only communication is via satellite. Every cruise ship will have packages that allow you to call or get web access , but they charge a high price (often around $15-25 per day). There are several work-arounds (such as international plans that will give you cell phone service in port cities or using free wi-fi in ports), but for many people, it might be best just to turn off your device and enjoy being disconnected for a few days.

If you do book wi-fi, we’d suggest getting the top-tier package. Lower plans tend to have frustratingly slow connections.

53. Don’t Even Think About Being Late For the Ship

Check out the video below. As a first-time cruiser, don’t let this happen to you. The departure times for port days aren’t suggestions. You should be back on board by that time and not a moment later. The last thing you want to do is be a “pier runner” or worse, miss the ship altogether.

54. No Habla Espanol? No Problemo.

Many of the ports in the Caribbean and Mexico are Spanish-speaking countries, whereas others may speak Dutch or French. Don’t worry. You don’t have to be multi-lingual to get by. The cruise ports thrive on tourism and they make it as easy as possible for foreign tourists to get around. Practically everyone you encounter will speak English, so you can leave the Spanish dictionary at home.

55. Be Prepared to Have Your Picture Taken

Not the sort of person that likes having your picture taken by strangers? Get ready, because it will start before you even step foot on the ship. It’s big business on a cruise for roving photographers to take pictures of guests having fun. The pictures are then sold in the photo store on the ship. As a first-timer, it can be unnerving when you’re trying to relax (which others love it).

To be fair, the photographers are great and it’s a nice way to get a professional photo done to remember your trip. If you don’t want a picture taken, you can just politely decline. And there’s no charge unless you decide to buy the picture.

56. Don’t Expect to Drink the Alcohol Bought in Port

If you think that bottle of tequila you just bought in Cozumel will make for a fun evening, think again. Just like on embarkation day, you can’t bring on bottles of booze from ports. Anything bought in port will be held on the ship and delivered back to your stateroom the night before you leave.

57. Be Careful, Cruises Are Addicting

You sure you want to take that first cruise? One thing they don’t tell you in all the brochures is how addicting it can be. A week of being catered to, eating great food, and visiting multiple exotic ports is hard to forget when you head back to work after your trip. In fact, many people book their next cruise while on the ship. But let’s be honest… there are worse habits to have than a cruising habit!

Related Articles:

• The Must-Read First-Time Cruise Guide for New Passengers
• 22 Basic Things Every First-Time Cruiser Should Know
• The 8 Things First-Timers Forget to Pack for a Cruise

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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My first cruise next week will tender at Phuket with overnight stay. I’m wondering whether tender boat is usually available round-the-clock and will I be able to get back to the ship at midnight on Day 1? Or should I consider booking a hotel onshore? Thank you.

Not sure on that. Only stayed overnight in a port once and there was an “all-aboard” at midnight so they didn’t want you staying out past that time. It will be a cruise line policy, however, so yours may be different.

Where or who do I find out about Port Fees and taxes how much I should budget.

This will all be disclosed prior to buying. You can price the specific cruise online, but normally just factoring in $100-$200 per person is a quick way to figure it.

Ok I’m confused about the alcohol. Because most I have seen allow two bottles of wine per cabin (Either per port or per cruise). But this says you won’t get it until after the cruise?

No, you can bring on bottles of wine/champagne. Anything bought in port will be held until the last day of the cruise and then delivered to your room the last night.

Thank you for explaining that your room key acts more like a credit card on a cruise. My wife and I are planning on taking a cruise at the end of the year as a way to celebrate the coming of the new year. This will be our first time, so these tips you shared will help us make sure we have a great experience during the cruise.

I’m planning my trip first cruise. When choosing a balcony cabin on a large cruise, is it better on the upper decks, middle or lower? There seem to be price differences for different decks. Rom is there no difference? Thank you for infor.

To us it doesn’t really matter. It’s more about where you want to be in proximity to other parts of the ship. For example, most of the indoor amenities (casino, shopping, etc) are in the middle of the ship. Outdoor amenities are on the higher decks. So it’s really about if you mind taking the stairs or elevators to get back and forth.

My favorite part of this article is when you said that booking the balcony room is the best choice. As you mentioned, it is perfect for those who take their time in the morning while drinking a cup of coffee with a view. This is perfect for my husband and me because my husband is way too slow in the morning since he is a night owl. Actually, ever since we were dating, he would never choose to go out in the morning. Thanks!

Wow, it’s interesting that you said that there are no luggage fees in cruises, and we can bring as much as items as we want to. My family and I are going to look for a cruise trip for summer because it has been of our dreams ever since my husband and I got married. Our kids were also very excited when we told our plans with them. We will keep these tips in mind. Thanks a lot!

is there smoking cigarettes on a carnival cruise

Yes there is, but only in designated areas. It’s not allowed in your cabin or on your balcony.

Just returned from our first cruise and I am so glad I read your ‘tips and advice’! They really helped! And yes, they are ‘addicting’! Already booked for this summer out of NYC on a 4 night with new Carnival ship to Bermuda!!! YAY!!

Love to hear you had a great time!

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14 Savvy Tips For Visiting Cozumel on a Cruise

The 5 big reasons why you shouldn’t take a cruise, the best time to book your cruise (save money, better cabins), hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

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How to Book a Cruise for the First Time: a Comprehensive Step-by-step Guide

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Many first time cruisers find the process of booking and planning a cruise confusing, for good reason. Even though cruising is pretty effortless once you’re on the cruise ship, there are a lot of things to be aware of as you plan.

If you’re booking a cruise for the first time, it can be hard to know where to start. After all, there are so many cruise ships and itineraries to choose from, the decisions might seem overwhelming. Plus, there are so many other things to think about, from choosing the best cabin to booking shore excursions !

In this post, I share how to book a cruise for the first time, in a step by step guide. You’ll find answers to some common questions people have about booking a cruise, as well as tips to avoid unfortunate rookie mistakes .

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

How to Book Your First Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

To book your first cruise, you can either book directly with the cruise line through their website, book online with a large booking engine or book with a travel agent .

All are good ways to book, however first time cruisers often benefit from working with an individual travel agent or cruise advisor. While you can find someone local, it’s common to work with a cruise travel agent through email and occasional phone calls as needed.

This can be really helpful as your travel agent can help to book hotels and flights, share important information from the cruise line and answer your questions along the way.

Most travel agents don’t charge for their service to book a cruise, and you may get an incentive for booking, like an extra onboard cash credit .

Read more:   Best Way to Book a Cruise: Travel Agent or Direct with the Cruise Line?

Can You Book a Cruise on Your Own?

Can you book a cruise on your own? Absolutely. If you know what cruise you want and prefer to book directly with the cruise line it’s easy to do so. You can reserve and pay for your cruise booking on the cruise line website or work with one of their Personal Vacation Planners over the phone or by email.

Planning a cruise? Here’s a list of the cruise accessories and travel items to pack for your vacation.

How to Plan Your First Cruise

Part of the fun of going on a cruise is the research and planning. Here’s a list of things to do as you plan your first cruise. You’ll see the details below.

• Cruise line and cruise ship
• Length of cruise
• Choose your dates of travel
• Choose a cabin
• Book your cruise
• Book your flights and hotels
• Buy travel insurance
• Book excursions and research cruise ports
• Add on beverage and dining packages
• Do your online check in
• Have a packing list
• The best time to book a cruise

1. Choose a Cruise Line and Cruise Ship

There really isn’t one best cruise line or cruise ship, since everyone is different, and so are the cruise lines. However, first time cruisers are usually best off choosing from some of the most popular cruise lines. This includes Carnival, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney, Princess Cruises, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises.

Here are a few quick tips that will help you to know what to expect from each cruise line.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line are known for their fun ships and casual atmosphere. They offer a good value vacation, and are great for budget or family cruisers.

Newer cruise ships like the Mardi Gras, have some cool features, like the first roller coaster at sea along with more food and dining options.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises have beautiful cruise ships, many of which are known for their famous sparkly Zwarovski crystal stairs. MSC cruise ships have a European flair, which includes dining and entertainment that may feel more international.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean are known for their large innovative cruise ships with lots to do for kids and adults. Entertainment on Royal Caribbean is second to none, with Aqua and Ice Skating shows, Broadways shows and more on many of their cruise ships. Royal Caribbean is great for families as well as cruisers of all ages.

Smaller Royal Caribbean ships won’t have the same bells and whistles as the larger mega ships, so make sure you check the cruise ship features before you book.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line, or NCL as they’re sometimes called, are well known as the Freestyle cruise line. Norwegian cruises are fun and fairly casual, while their ships are innovative and beautiful. In contrast to most other mainstream cruise lines, Norwegian doesn’t have strict cruise dress codes .

You’ll find great entertainment on NCL, including Broadway shows like Rock of Ages and venues such as Dueling Pianos. Newer or refurbished cruise ships are good choices. As with Royal Caribbean, check the cruise ship for the features and activities you like best.

Read more:   Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Perks Explained

Disney Cruises

Disney Cruises is a quality cruise line that commands a higher price than other cruise lines that cater to families and kids. As you can imagine, the ships are Disney themed and offer many Disney shows and experiences. Even though Disney is more expensive, many people rave about the Disney cruise experience – from entertainment, dining and service, the kid’s camp and more.

If you’re cruising with kids and have the budget for it, a Disney cruise is worth considering.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruise ships are elegant and beautiful and tend to be somewhat traditional. The food and entertainment is very good, as are the enrichment activities. On Princess, you’ll be able to cruise with Ocean Medallion , which has made the service and overall experience quite good.

Outside of the Holidays and summer months, you won’t see too many families. However, since the activities are so varied, Princess is a really good cruise line for multi-generational travel.

Related:  Princess Cruises: 15 Tips, Tricks and Insider Secrets

Holland America

Holland America has beautiful, classic cruise ships. You can expect very good food and service and a focus on enrichment. Overall, a Holland America cruise will be relaxing and while they have very good shows and live music, this is not a late night party ship. Holland America passengers are generally experienced and mature travelers.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity cruise ships feel both modern and upscale, but not stuffy. As an example, they’ve done away with formal night and replaced it with an Evening Chic dress code .

Celebrity’s dining and service is very good. The entertainment includes a combination of Celebrity produced shows and quality guest entertainers.

While families can cruise and be comfortable on Celebrity, in contrast to sister cruise line Royal Caribbean, you won’t find waterslides and other theme park like activities.

Something to note is that the price of Celebrity Cruises may seem a fair bit higher than other popular cruise lines. However, this is partly because Celebrity includes a beverage package, wifi and gratuities in the price .

You can find out more about what’s included and how it works in this post:  Celebrity Cruises Always Included (how it works)

2. Choose the Perfect Itinerary

For your first cruise, you’ll want to get familiar with cruise itineraries and what there is to do in the ports of call . These are some great cruise itineraries for first time cruisers .

Caribbean & Bahamas Cruises

Many first time cruisers dream of beautiful beaches and tropical islands, so Caribbean cruises are ideal, especially for a winter getaway! Caribbean cruises itineraries offer water activities, beaches, sightseeing and shopping. There’s Western Caribbean, Eastern and Southern Caribbean to choose from, with each port of call feeling unique and offering different types of excursions.

Typically Caribbean and Bahamas cruises are the most popular with first time and seasoned cruisers alike.

Bermuda Cruise

Bermuda cruises offer the appeal of staying longer in one destination and having more time to explore on your own. A subtropical destination, Bermuda cruises sail from April until October, with summer as a high season. This safe and charming island makes it a perfect first time cruise experience.

Bermuda cruises are a great romantic cruise for couples , but also amazing for a family friendly family cruise vacation.

Read more:   Bermuda’s Royal Naval Dockyard – Best Things to Do Near the Cruise Port

Best Things to do In Bermuda for Cruisers

Horseshoe Bay Beach Bermuda Review & Guide

Mediterranean Cruises

If you’re less into beaches and more interested in History, culture, sightseeing and good food, you can’t go wrong with a Mediterranean cruise itinerary. Ports of call may include Rome, Florence, Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Cannes, Barcelona and more.

These cruises tend to be more expensive than Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, but are “bucket list” travel experiences.

Alaska Cruise

Alaska attracts many first timers who are destination focused travelers . An Alaskan cruise is seen as a once in a lifetime experience for many, filled with adventure and the wonder of nature.

Alaska cruises are great for people of any age, but it does attract an older demographic. However, over the last few years Alaska has gained popularity with younger couples and even families with young kids or teens, and larger family cruises.

Read more:  5 Alaska Whale Watching Tips You Need to Know

5 Reasons Why Everyone Needs to Go on a Cruise to Alaska

Cruises to Avoid for First Time Cruisers

There are some cruises that first time cruisers should avoid . as they can lead to disappointment.

Repositioning Cruises

While one of the best ways to get a deal on a cruise is by booking repositioning cruises, they are not recommended for new cruisers. Repositioning cruises tend to be much cheaper than other cruises, when you look at a cost per day.

However, there are a lot of sea days and possible rough seas crossing the Atlantic or Pacific oceans – not great for those that are concerned about potential motion sickness . There are also usually less activities per day than a cruise line’s popular 7 day cruise itinerary.

Short Cruises

A cruise is a pretty full vacation, with a balance of both days in port where you can book excursions and explore, and sea days when you can enjoy the cruise ship and all the onboard activities. Short 2, 3 or 4 day sailings just don’t give you enough time to experience it all, while also relaxing.

Many people who’ve taken short cruises as a first cruise have said it was just too short.

Older Cruise Ships

An easy mistake to make, is to book on older cruise ships which have not been adequately refurbished. Even as an experienced cruiser, I’ve been on some cruise ships where the cabins are outdated and I’ve seen snags in the hallway carpets and pool areas which need painting. It just doesn’t make the best impression of cruising or the cruise line, and this is especially important for a first cruise.

Cruise tip: You can find out when your cruise ship was last refurbished and what was done. Read recent reviews on Facebook and on message boards and see if any recurring issues come up.

Read full article here (with 4 more cruises): 7 Cruises NOT to take & Which to Do Instead

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

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3. Pick the Best Length of Cruise

The length of your cruise may be important than you know. Choose a cruise that’s too short, and you may not have enough time to truly relax and enjoy all that cruising has to offer. However, choose a cruise that’s too long or that has too many sea days , and it may just be too much if you aren’t used to it.

A perfect cruise length for many first time cruisers is 7 days. This usually gives you at least 3 cruise ports and 3 sea days, a couple of formal nights , and enough time to enjoy may activities on the cruise ship.

Related:  63 Things NOT to Do on a Cruise Ship

4. Set Your Cruise Budget

An important part of planning for your cruise is knowing your budget. If you have an idea of how much you want to spend on your first cruise , it can help to narrow down your choices.

On average, you can expect cruises to start at about $100 a day. However, you can find some cruises that are as low as $50 a night and others that are much higher. This depends on a few things including the cruise line, cruise cabin choice and date of sailing.

Remember to factor in the cost of your cruise, plus flights, hotels, excursions and other extra expenses. Plus, you’ll need to bring some cash or spending money for the cruise as well.

Read more: 27 Tips to Save Money on a Cruise

How Much Cash Should You Bring on a Cruise?

5. When Should You Cruise?

When is the best time to cruise? It depends on the cruise itinerary you’d like to book, as each has it’s season.

Alaska cruises sail from May-September. Bermuda Cruises start in April-October. Caribbean cruises sail year round, however there may be fewer ships sailing in summer months. Mediterranean cruises are most popular from May-October, although there are a few cruise ships that will sail during the cooler winter months,

While some people are flexible and can choose to cruise anytime, many others have a set vacation time or have to plan around school breaks and summer holidays. Remember that late summer through Fall is hurricane season , so while prices will be lower, I wouldn’t suggest these for first time cruisers.

If you have a preferred time that you want or need to travel, search cruises and itineraries that are available at that time. If you can be flexible with your travel dates by even a couple of weeks, you may be able to save 50% or more on a cruise .

Read more: 75 Cruise Hacks to Help Save You Money & More

6. Which Cruise Cabin is Best

Choosing your cruise cabin is a really important decision. After all, you’ll be spending a fair amount of time there and want to make sure you have a good sleep, at the very least.

There are 5 main cruise stateroom categories to choose from:

Inside or interior cabins

Inside cabins are usually the least expensive cabins on any cruise ship . They are interior rooms, so they don’t have any windows, however they can still be comfortable and cosy.

These are good cabins for anyone cruising on a budget and those that love dark spaces for a really good night’s sleep. Inside staterooms are also great for people who don’t think they’ll be in their cabin other than to sleep, shower and dress.

Read more: How to Make Your Inside Cabin Feel More Spacious

7 Reasons Why You Should Book an Inside Cabin on Your Cruise

Oceanview Cabins

Ocean view cabins often have a nice large picture window, although sometimes you’ll have only a port hole. Ocean view cabins are similar in size to inside cabins, however these are preferred by those who want more natural light.

Balcony Cabins

Balcony cabins are sometimes referred to as veranda staterooms. These rooms are more spacious than inside and ocean view cabins, and have private balcony where you can spend time and view the ocean as well as ports of call.

If you can afford a balcony cabin, you’ll probably love it!

Read more: Best Reasons to Book a Balcony Cabin on a Cruise

Aft Balcony Cruise Ship Cabins Pros & Cons

Mini-suites or Junior Suites

Mini suites are great cabins for families or anyone who wants more space, including a small living area in their state room. Mini suite staterooms will usually have a larger bathroom and a bathtub, whereas the lower cruise cabin categories will have smaller bathrooms and just a shower.

Looking for a really special experience on a cruise? Book a suite to have a separate living room and dining area, beautiful spacious bathroom, balcony which may even have your own hot tub and more. Many cruise ships now offer a private sun deck and lounge for suite guests, plus extra amenities and butler service.

Read more: 10 Worst Cruise Cabins to Avoid 

7. Book Your Flights

Once you’ve booked your cruise, it’s time to book a flights.

One of the most common mistakes people make when going on a cruise is flying in on the same day of their cruise. While many times things can turn out just fine, by planning to arrive the same day as your cruise you risk arriving late and missing your cruise. It happens more often than you know.

Veteran cruisers and travel agents always advice to arrive one day prior to your cruise

You can book your flights on your own through your favorite travel website, a travel agent or by using reward points. You can also book your flights with the cruise line using cruise line air .

Cruise Line Air Option

Cruise line air is available with many cruise lines, however it does come with some pros and cons. Some cruise lines allow you to book flexible flights right on their website, where you can choose your dates and air carrier. Others will have more restrictions and charge extra charges for deviations.

Related: 6 Best Reasons to Book Cruise Line Air (plus 3 Reasons Not To)

8. Book Pre and Post Cruise Hotels

If you’re flying in a day before your cruise, which you won’t regret, it’s time to book a pre-cruise hotel . Since the embarkation port is likely near a major city worth visiting, you may want to extend your stay by booking a couple extra nights before or after your cruise.

While you can book your hotel with your cruise line, you’ll likely pay more than if you book on a website like Expedia or even directly with the hotel. One cruise travel hack I’ve used is booking with my travel reward points or Air Miles, so I don’t really feel the extra cost of my pre-cruise stays.

Related: Best Things to Do in Miami Pre & Post Cruise

9. Purchase Travel Insurance

As more people are planning cruises in 2021 and 2022 , many are also prioritizing purchasing travel insurance for their cruises .

Buying cruise travel insurance is important for people of every age. Should you get ill or need medical treatment while cruising or in a foreign country, it can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Talk with your travel advisor about insurance options or research the best coverage for your needs.

Read more :   7 Reasons You Need Travel Insurance for Your Next Cruise

10. Research Cruise Ports and Book Excursions

Now for the fun part – researching your ports of call and planning shore excursions !

One of the best parts of cruising is the opportunity to travel to different ports of call. You have couple of options when it comes to planning how you’ll spend your time in each port.

Related: 15 Best Beach Bags for a Cruise

Cruise Line Shore Excursions

You can make it really easy and book cruise line shore excursions . You may choose a sightseeing tour, a beach break, a snorkeling excursion or even a hike through a rainforest. There will probably be 10-20 different types of activities to choose from.

The nice thing about booking excursions through the cruise line is that everything is organized for you. It also comes with an assurance that the ship will wait for you if for some reason your excursion is late.

A practical tip for first time cruisers is to book cruise line shore excursions especially if the attraction is far from the cruise port.

Research Your Cruise Ports and Plan Your Own Excursions

Some people like to visit cruise ports independently. No matter what you decide to do, make sure to research the cruise ports and the main attractions and best things to do.

If you feel comfortable, book an excursion with a private tour operator or visit on your own. You can find great advice in cruise Facebook groups, on cruise line message boards, and by reading blogs and watching YouTube cruise vlogs as well.

Related:   What to Pack in Your Cruise Shore Excursion Bag

9 Best Tips for Cruise Shore Excursion Planning 

11. Add on Optional Beverage or Dining Packages

There’s a lot included on a cruise , however most cruises aren’t all inclusive. So you may want to consider adding a beverage or dining package to your booking.

Packages for dining as well as soda, coffee or alcoholic beverage packages can be added to your cruise booking on your cruise personalizer or online planner. While you can add drink packages and specialty dining once on your cruise ship, many cruise line’s will have discounts and promotions leading up to your cruise.

We’ve found that for most cruise lines, that you save money by booking in advance.

Are beverage packages worth it? Here’s info on 3 cruise lines:

Are Princess Cruises Drink Packages Worth it?

Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages: What’s Included and is it Worth it?

Celebrity Cruises Always Included (drinks, wifi, gratuities)

12. Online Check-in

Cruise lines require you to complete your online check-in before you cruise. You may as well do this as soon as it’s available, but at least about a month before your cruise. This way, if you have an issue or any questions, you have time to resolve it.

When doing your online check in, you’ll be asked for your government identification or passport information, a credit card to keep on file, proof of vaccination (most cruise lines), and to fill in a health questionnaire.

13. Have a Cruise Packing List

Print out or write a cruise packing list, so you don’t forget to bring anything on your cruise . I like to make a personalized list that I add onto as needed, but you can start with a pre-filled one as a guide.

Things to consider are clothing and cruise outfits , toiletries and first aid items , as well as what to pack in your cruise carry on bag for the first day of your cruise .

Don’t forget to check your cruise line’s dress code to plan for what to wear on your cruise on formal nights and other days and evenings on your cruise.

Looking for a way to keep organized from the moment you start planning your cruise? Check out the Life Well Cruised Ultimate Cruise Planner ($10 0ff for a limited time)

14. Double Check Your Cruise Travel Requirements

These days, most cruise lines are requiring most cruise passengers to be vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination to board. As well, there are pre-cruise testing requirements.

However, the cruise protocols and requirements continue to change and evolve. It’s very important to keep up to date with your own cruise line’s policies and protocols, especially in the last few weeks before you sail.

You can do this by keeping an eye on your emails from the cruise line as well as by checking directly on the cruise line website regularly.

Related:   Why Now is a Good Time to Book a Cruise for 2021 or 2022

15. The Best Time to Book a Cruise

The best advice I can give, is book your cruise as early as possible, especially for popular cruise destinations or new cruise ships. Last minute deals aren’t common in the cruise industry, and the best prices are often seen about 6 months to a year in advance.

When you book far in advance, only a deposit is required. Final payments are due, depending on the cruise line, between 120-75 days before your cruise. If your cruise lowers in price during this time, you can usually take advantage of any new promotions.

By booking early, not only will you usually get a better deal, but you’ll also get the best choices of cabins. You can also book flights, plan your onboard activities and shore excursions.

Related:   10 Things that Cost Extra on a Cruise but Are Worth It

Popular & Related Posts:

50 Must-have Cruise Essentials (Amazon list)

25 Cruise Embarkation Day Tips You Need to Know

21 Cruise Disembarkation Tips You Need to Know

What to Wear on a Cruise (day, evening, formal night)

 10 Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

Essentials to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On Bag

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise (with packing list)

Final Thoughts on How to Book a Cruise for the First Time

Planning a cruise doesn’t have to be hard. With a step by step process that begins with choosing the right cruise ship and itinerary, you can use this list to help plan your cruise, every step of the way.

I hope this post will make your cruise planning process easier and make you feel like a more confident cruiser!

Do you have questions about how to book your cruise or tips to share? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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5 Cruise Tips for First-Time (or Experienced) Cruisers

Whether you're new to cruising or are taking off on your umpteenth cruise vacation, it never hurts to have a little guidance. As cruise ships get more sophisticated, cruisegoers have more and more choices available to them. Where should you go first? What shouldn't you miss? Follow these five cruise tips , and it'll be smooth sailing all the way.

1. Packing for Your Cruise

The best mantra to follow when you're packing for your next cruise is this: Pack light. You'll want to start with the essentials. If your cell phone can take high-quality photos, leave your camera at home. Where clothes are concerned, pack minimally and bring a wrinkle-releasing product that allows you to wear an outfit more than once. And do your research — if your stateroom will already be supplied with a robe and some toiletries, you can leave those things at home as well. Save space so you can travel light and even bring home a souvenir or two!

You'll never go hungry on a cruise ship — and no need to fret over dining options . You can always hit the pizza bar or the buffet if you feel like having a casual evening, or even order room service. A selection of internationally-inspired dining options is always available; don't feel pressured to make an early decision about whether you'll want late or early dining on your cruise. One piece of advice, though: If you think you might like to indulge in fine dining, you'll want to make a reservation ahead of time. Those specialty restaurants tend to book up at the beginning of each cruise.

3. Onboard Activities

You won't need to memorize all the activities and events each day. During turn-down service, your cabin steward will leave you a copy of the Princess Patter , a newsletter that will tell you when the casino opens, the hours for the health and fitness center , what pool the volleyball game is taking place in, daily tips for cruising, and an hourly listing of all other happenings on board.

4. Cruise Shore Excursions

One of the most important steps you can take before your next cruise is to do your excursion homework before you depart. It won't take long to navigate through shore excursions to plan your vacation days. Availability for everyone is not guaranteed on each excursion, so you'll want to pre-reserve shore excursions early for anything you want. The other advantage to planning in advance is making sure you bring anything that an outing might call for, such as hiking boots or water shoes.

5. Shopping

Keep an eye on the Princess Patter and the Princess Shopping Host — available at the tour office and on your stateroom television — before you make purchases. This is where you'll get insider cruise tips on when there are onboard boutique sales . You can also check with your host about any onshore purchases you are interested in making, that way you'll get the best bargains and quality.

Plan Your Family Vacation

How To Plan A Cruise (Cruise Planning Made Easy)

Are you planning a cruise and wondering where to start?! I know exactly how you are feeling. It can be so overwhelming! Planning for a cruise is no joke! 

I am going to break down how to plan a cruise for you! But I have to warn you, once you get the hang of cruise planning, it might become addictive.  Cruising is the kind of vacation people love to repeat over and over again.  

In this post, we are going to help you plan a cruise vacation. I will teach you the basic things you need to know on how to plan a cruise.   I will also give you cruise planning tips you probably wouldn’t even think of. 

Not only is this post great for cruising for beginners, but it will also help anyone come up with a cruise plan. 

Let’s learn how to plan a cruise trip and make cruise planning easy! 

If you would like to save this information for later be sure to pin this to Pinterest. 

This post may contain affiliate links (Including Amazon)  that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you.

Best Time of Year to Plan a Cruise

The first thing you need to think about when planning a cruise is the time of year you would like to go. 

There are a lot of factors that go into deciding the best time of year.  For example, Alaska cruises are from May – September.  The best times are June and July but if you want to save money booking early in the season or at the end of the season will be less expensive.  

I actually created a document that breaks down the best prices, the most popular months, weather considerations, and my personal recommendations for the most popular areas to cruise.  

I can email you a free copy! 

This document is awesome! It is a great resource as you start to plan a cruise! 

How Far In Advance Should I Plan a Cruise?

Planning for a cruise 6-12 months in advance is perfect.  Here is the deal, if you are going on a longer or more expensive cruise booking early gives you the time to pay off the cruise! 

Some people suggest booking as early as 18 months in advance.  I don’t think this is the best advice because the cruise lines typically haven’t added all of the cruise ships and itineraries to their site that early.  

Last Minute Cruise Planning

Last-minute bookings are an option.  A lot of cruise ships have last-chance deals.  What I have found however is that the closer you get to the cruise date, the fewer choices are available and prices tend to get higher.  Interior rooms tend to be sold out leaving you with a higher-priced balcony option. 

How to Plan a Cruise Step by Step

We are going to break down the steps on how to plan a cruise. 

• Determine Your Budget
• Plan a Cruise Destination
• Plan Your Cruise Dates
• Pick Your Cabin
• Pick a Cruise Line
• Select a Ship
• Choose an Itinerary 
• Book Your Cruise
• Booking Specialty Restaurants 
• Booking Shore Excursions
• Booking Entertainment and Shows

These cruise planning steps will help you know exactly how to plan a cruise! 

1. Determine Your Budget

A cruise plan budget is one of the most important things you need to do before you start planning for a cruise. 

One thing to keep in mind is that cruises are all-inclusive.  It is so nice to just pay one price which includes, food, lodging, and entertainment.  You know exactly how much your vacation will cost without too much guesswork.

How to Plan a Cruise and Save Money

Shorter cruises are typically less expensive.  Florida seems to have lower-priced cruises compared to California.  But here is the thing, if you live closer to California it might be less expensive to drive or fly there even if the cruise is a little more.  

I mentioned early that certain times of the year are less expensive to cruise.  Sometimes adding 4 people in a room will save you money. There are always deals available.  We will talk about those later.  

If you book early enough, you can easily create a monthly cruise plan budget to pay off the cruise before you go on it. 

Cruise Planning Tips

One of the things to know about cruises is how gratuities work. Make sure you include enough funds in your cruise plan budget for gratuities.  At the end of the cruise, you will be asked to tip the staff.  This is so important for these workers.  They work extremely hard. 

These tips are about $100 per day per cabin.  So a 7-day cruise could incur another $700 in tips. 

2. Plan a Cruise Destination

You probably already have an idea of what cruise destination you would like to go to.  If you haven’t thought about it yet no big deal. Most major cruise lines go to the same locations. 

If this is your first cruise I imagine you are looking more in the USA, maybe Europe, or possibly Asia or Australia.  Picking your destination is an important step of planning a cruise.  I will list the top cruise ports in these destinations. 

Top Departure Cruise Ports in US/Canada

• Port Canaveral (Orlando)
• New Orleans
• Galveston, TX
• San Francisco
• Hawaii 

Top Departure Cruise Ports in Europe

• Ravenna 
• South Hampton (London)
• Netherlands

Top Departure Cruise Ports in Asia/Australia/New Zealand

• Toyoko 

Once you pick your departure port you can see what itineraries are available so that you can choose your cruise stops.  You will also want to think about what airports are near each port and how easy or difficult it will be to get to the port. 

3. Plan Your Cruise Dates

When planning a Cruise consider the prices by date of departure. Here is the deal, typically the same ship sticks with the same itinerary for an extended period of time.  This allows you to see week after week of options.  

If you don’t have a set date I would explore which date is the least expensive.  What I have found is the prices are pretty similar maybe a few hundred less for certain dates. (with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas)

Planning a Family Cruise

I would get a copy of the best times to cruise PDF I created to get you started.  Remember that families with children in school can only travel during certain times. Typically those times are a little more expensive. (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break, and Summer)

If you can go during an off-peak time you will be saving money.

4. Decide on a Cabin Type

In most cruise ships you have a few options for cabin types.  Different cruise lines may call these room types slightly different names but the most common are:

If you are new to cruising, interior rooms are typically the cheapest and provide 0 outside light.  Oceanview rooms have a window, and the Balcony rooms have a walk-out balcony.  Suites are typically much bigger and typically come with more perks. 

Which Part of the Ship is Good to Book my Cabin? 

Once you pick your room, you will then have to decide what part of the ship you would like to be in.  Your choices are the back of the ship, the middle of the ship, and the front of the ship.

Cruise Planning Tip 

The more centered and lower you are the less rocking you will feel.  Midship is great especially if you tend to get seasick. If you want a balcony room just book the lowest balcony level available.   

Our Experience

We have stayed in both a balcony room and an interior room.  Honestly, I really did not mind the interior room.  It was really dark and great for sleeping! I would book an interior room again.

The balcony room was nice as well.  We liked hanging out on the balcony and enjoying thing fresh air.  As you are planning for a cruise decide what makes sense for you.

5. Pick a Cruise Line

I have done a ton of research on different cruise lines. Plus it helps that my parents are cruise addicts and go every three months! There are some amazing cruise lines.  I am only going to list the best cruise lines for first-timers below. 

Disney Cruise 

Disney cruise line caters to families.  Think 5-star quality and service and unfortunately prices. I have never met anyone that has said they didn’t love their Disney Cruise. You will find lots of families with young kids on Disney Cruises. 

• Fantastic Entertainment
• Private Island Castaway Cay 
• Caters to Families 
• Disney Cruises are Expensive! 
• Ships are Smaller
• Some of the Ships are Older (but well-kept)
• Shorter Itineraries

My best advice for a Disney Cruise is to go through a professional Disney Planner like GetAwayToday .  They know everything about how Disney operates. 

We used a travel agent to book everything.  It is nice to have someone who can help you navigate everything for you. We went on the Disney Wish.  It was really awesome! We had a lot of fun.

I think the ideal age to go on a Disney cruise is about 7. My kids ranged from 8-16.  We really loved it, but felt like Royal Caribbean was a good competitor.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean is another family-friendly cruise line .  Their ships are huge with lots of entertainment options for all ages.  Royal Caribbean caters to a lot of demographics. You will find kids and the elderly alike. 

• Lots of New Ships
• Phenomenal Entertainment
• Great Prices
• Variety of Itineraries 
• Good Food Options
• Private Island CocoCay ( Thrill Water Park )
• Smaller ships do not have as much entertainment but usually have great itineraries. 
• Some ships are Older (make sure to look at dates)

We have been on 2 Royal Caribbean cruises. If you are planning a family cruise this is a great option! We did a family reunion with 22 people and had a fantastic time. We went on the Allure of the Seas.   It is very similar to the Oasis of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas.  We loved how much 

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival is a budget cruise line.  Typical you will find a good price.  Carnival also has a reputation of being a party ship.  A lot of young adults and college-age kids love Carnival.  However, I know many families who have gone on Carnival and loved it. 

• Less Expensive
• Great Itineraries
• Party Scene 
• Good For Families
• Older Ships
• Party Scene

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian is another great cruise line that caters to families.  The ships have fun entertainment options.  They have a variety of ships both big and small.

• Variety of Itineraries
• Great Dining Options
• Fabulous Entertainment
• Everything Cost Extra on Ship 
• Crowded Areas

Princess Cruise Line

Princess has a fabulous reputation! It is one of the best cruise lines to go on if you are headed to Alaska because they have amazing land excursions for before or after your cruise.   

• Military Cruise Benefit
• Movies Under the Stars
• Piazza is Beautiful
• Great Service
• Hot Tubs are Small
• Food is Okay
• Internet is Horrible  

Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity is a higher-end cruise line.  It is a little more expensive but offers a different experience than some of the other cruise lines.  Kids are welcome but Celebrity caters to couples 35 and older.  My parents just got back from one and absolutely loved it!  

Pro’s 

• Pristine Cleanliness 
• Food is Fabulous
• Heated Pools
• Beautiful Ships
• Non-Smoking Casino
• Older Demographic
• More Expensive
• Not Great for Kids

MSC Cruise Line

MSC is a well-established European cruise line.  It is another budget-friendly option like Carnival. Recently, they have added more itineraries in the US.  I haven’t been on an MSC cruise but have talked to a few people that have said you pay for what you get. 

• Inexpensive
• Food Options are not Great
• No Soft Serve Ice Cream
• Not A Lot of Activities for Kids
• Lots of Upcharges on Ship
• Can not Connect a Credit Card to Ship Card

6. Select at Ship

Another important step for your cruise plan is to pick your ship. If this is your first time cruising, you might not even know where to start when picking a ship.  It really matters! If you haven’t picked a cruise line narrow it down to 2-3.  This will help you in the cruise planning process.

Things to Look at When Picking a Ship

• New Vs. Old
• Small Vs. Big

New Vs. Old Ships

When picking your cruise ship look at the age of the ship and if it has been refurbished.  The newer the ship the nicer it is going to be.  (like USB’s in the room instead of plug-ins)  It really makes a difference.  Everything feels nicer on new ships. 

Amenities on the Ship

Look at the entertainment options when choosing your cruise.  Cruises are full of fun stuff like water slides, pools, race tracks, mini golf, escape rooms, laser tag, bowling, sports facilities, Flo Riders, and rope courses. 

Also, look at what shows are being offered. Typically cruises will have a Broadway show, magic show, comedy shows, and ice skating shows.  Explore your ship to see what is available. 

Bigger Ships vs. Smaller Ships

Bigger ships typically offer more amenities.  They have a lot of fun activities to do onboard. Some bigger ships are limited to where they can port because of the size of the ship.  

Smaller ships typically have really nice itineraries.  It is more about the destination than the ship itself.  Some of the smaller ships are older but just check refurbished dates and you should be good. 

All of these considerations are important when you plan a cruise. 

7. Choose an Itinerary

One of the best things about planning a cruise is picking your itinerary.  There are amazing itineraries all over the World. 

Some popular itineraries include visiting all the Caribbean islands, Mediterranean cruises, Alaska cruises, and Mexico cruises.

Does the Cruise Ship have a Private Island?

Most cruise lines have private islands.  These islands are awesome.  They typically have activities and food that are included in the price of your cruise. 

Royal Caribbean’s island has lots of free options plus some fun Cococay excursions including Thrill Water Park . Disney’s Castaway cay is amazing as well. 

When planning your cruise itinerary look to see if a cruise line private island is included. 

My Experience Cruise Planning

I have been looking for a Mediterranean cruise for a while.  I knew I wanted to visit Spain, France, and Italy.  Most cruise lines offered these stops in the itinerary.

So I moved on to find a ship that offered amazing amenities. I narrowed it down to my top 3.  And finally, I found the dates that would work for me. If the dates did not line up with my ships they would get eliminated.  

It is really important to write down your top 3 choices, dates, and itineraries.  It will just help you plan a cruise and stay organized. 

8. Check for Cruise Deals

Who wants to find a good deal?!  ME!!!!  I love getting a good deal.  Most cruise lines offer deals throughout the year.  Some offer kids sail free or some are 30- 50% the price.  I have seen free drink packages or free internet.  

These deals are great but in the end,  be prepared even with these discounts cruising is expensive!  I think these promotions are there to help you feel better about spending money!  But I bet you are wondering if can I save any more money….  the answer is YES! 

Once you have viewed the current promotions for the cruise line you would like to book with head to 3rd party travel agents.  Seriously! I love booking directly with a company but if you want added bonuses travel agents are the way to go. 

You will typically get up to $1000 or $2000 onboard spending credits.  These credits can go toward shore excursions, specialty dining, and spa services.  

I know Priceline always has additional offers on top of what the cruise line is already offering.  My mom likes to book through Priceline.  

CruiseDirect is another great option and GetawayToday is great for Disney and Royal Caribbean Cruises. 

8. Book your Cruise

Once you feel comfortable with the date, itinerary, and ship, you can move forward with your cruise plan and book your trip.  

Dining Time

When you book your cruise you will be able to select your preferred dining time.  Each night you can dine in the main dining room which is included in your cruise.  There is typically an earlier dining time and a later dining time. 

Cruise Deposit

When you book and plan your cruise trip you typically need to put a deposit down. You then can make payments and pay the rest of the cruise off over time.  I love this option.  It is so nice to have your cruise paid for before you even step foot on the ship.  It makes it so much easier to relax on vacation!  

9. Specialty Restaurants on Cruise Ships

Many of the dining options onboard are included in your cruise, however, there are some specialty restaurants that are not included.  

You can use your onboard credits to dine at these restaurants or just pay an additional amount. You will want to make reservations ahead of time.  

When to Book Specialty Restaurants

If you would like a little more variety than what is included in the cruise price, booking a specialty restaurant is a good idea.  These restaurants give a variety to your dining options, especially if you are on a longer cruise. 

10. Booking Excursions

Once you book your cruise you will be able to book excursions at the destination ports you are going. You can download the cruise line app to make this easier. 

If you are given onboard credit you can use this for shore excursions.  Be aware, some of the excursions do sell out.

Booking Excursions Through the Cruise Line 

There is safety in booking through the cruise line.  If you book an excursion through the cruise line and the tour is running late, the ship will wait for you to return. 

If you book a tour through a third party and it is late, the ship will leave you!!!! 

I think if it is a small excursion, it isn’t really a big deal to book through a third party like renting jet skis or swimming with dolphins.  But if you were going from Cozumel to Chichen Itza and it was an 8-hour tour I would book through the cruise line. 

We used Viator to book some of our cruise excursions.  It was so much cheaper that we were willing to take the risk and it really worked out perfectly.  We booked a trip to see the ancient ruins in Costa Maya and a zip line tour in Honduras .  Both tour companies were fabulous and we had no problems completing our tours and getting back on the boat. 

11. Booking Entertainment

Are really important cruise planning tip is that you need to book your entertainment on most cruise lines.  This means keep checking your app!  These shows are included in your cruise but you still have to reserve them. 

All of the shows will require you to have a reservation for the date/time of the show.  I have found that on shorter cruises you did not need to do this but on longer cruises it is essential. On big ships like Oasis of the Seas it is important to book ahead.  

Part of the fun of cruising is the entertainment.  Be ready to book these shows. 

12. Get Excited About the Cruise!

You pretty much have all the information you need for how to plan a cruise! Now is the fun part! 

There are a few ways to make this cruise vacation exciting! Getting a few cruise gifts for those who are coming with you can make it extra special.  

A cruise countdown is a fun item to purchase.  There are lots of fun options! I also love purchasing matching shirts especially when we go on big family reunion vacations.   

Are you Ready to Plan a Cruise?

Hopefully, now you know how to plan a cruise! There are lots of components to consider when cruise planning!  

Spend some time in front of your computer and create a cruise plan. Narrow down the best options for planning a cruise vacation that will be perfect for your family. 

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If you have any questions be sure to join my  Planningaway Travel Community  on Facebook.  This is a place where I post travel deals, and you can ask any questions about your upcoming trips!

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14 Comments

There is so much planning for a cruise. You did a great job breaking it down not to miss anything.

Thanks! Once the planning is done you can really relax when you go on vacation!

This is a fantastic breakdown of what to do to plan for a cruise! I’ve never been on one (yet) but will definitely be referring to this post once I get to planning stages….always nice to have something to look forward to!

Great tips on how to plan a cruise. We are planning a river cruise next year. So helpful!

That will be so cool!

Great tips on planning for a cruise.

These are excellent tips for going on a cruise. I’ve yet to do a cruise. I feel most drawn to a river cruise in Europe.

That would be awesome!

Great tips for planning a cruise. There are so many different kinds of cruises, it’s fun to investigate which one is best for the way you travel.

There are so many great cruise lines that cater to certain groups of people!

My husband and I have wanted to do a cruise for some time now, but haven’t the money or time. That and we have two cats who really don’t cope when we’re not here. BUT, with that being said, we are putting away money for a time when we can go on a cruise – be it next year or five years from now!

We waited a long time to go on our first cruise, for the same reasons. I will warn you once you go on one, you most likely will want to go on another!

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Cruise Buzz

5 steps to planning a cruise.

Ever wondered how to get started on planning your cruise? Look no further, here is my handy list.

Finding the right vacation, a cruise or a land vacation, can be a challenge. To help narrow the choices and allow you to sit back and enjoy the ride, Cruise Holidays & Vacations has compiled some tips for you to get started. Remember, your cruise concierge is a call away if you would like to have human interaction. We are available to answer your questions at 949-215-6700 or toll free at 888-203-3012.

Step 1. Figure out where you want to go. The first thing on your to-do list is decide where in the world you want to go.

Step 2. When and how long do you want to go? The spring or fall is the perfect time for those planning a romantic getaway for two. Summer holidays are the time when you’ll find many families with children onboard, along with a wide range of fun-filled activities, specially created just for them.

Luckily, cruise companies cater to your schedule. A mini-trip may be three or four days, while an around-the-world odyssey can last three to four months. However, the average cruise falls in the seven- to 10-day range.

Step 3. Fine-tune your plan by learning about the cruise lines. Different cruise lines target different types of passengers, as well as different age groups. Oceania Cruises’ two mid-size ships offer luxury without the formality. While Regent Seven Seas and Crystal Cruises offer refined elegance to a well-traveled crowd that appreciates days at sea as much as time in port. Princess and Disney provide unbeatable family programs, so expect to be cruising with kids. Holland America Line features a more traditional ambiance.

Step 4. Get Real. What are your service requirements? If you love creature comforts, there’s nothing like a suite with your own private balcony with front-row seats on the passing scenery. For personal pampering, the butler service on Regent, Crystal, and Celebrity can’t be beat. If computer connections are more essential, be sure to check out the large cruise lines’ high-tech facilities-from Internet cafés to in-cabin data ports. All offer a variety of shore excursions from High Renaissance art to high adventure. Your travel agent will have all the latest information.

Step 5. How much do you have to invest in the trip? Your cruise concierge can help you decide what a realistic amount is to budget for your trip. An all-inclusive cruise may cover your drinks, meals in specialty restaurants, computer classes, gratuities, and shore excursions. On large mass-market ships, however, each of these might carry a separate fee. Depending on your lifestyle, the all-inclusive route, which at first seems more expensive, may actually be a better value.

Wherever you decide to cruise, it can become addictive. And once you’ve discovered the joy of cruising, you’ll be asking your Cruise Holidays travel planner to book another adventure at sea. And make it soon.

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How to Plan a Cruise in 6 Steps

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Whether you’re jonesing for an epic Antarctic holiday or an extended weekend in the Bahamas, cruises can be a good way to let someone else take the reins for your vacation. But planning a cruise can be confusing, especially when there are several types of cruises, destinations and price points.

When planning a cruise, you’ll want to consider a variety factors, especially if you’re dealing with limited time or a tight budget.

Let’s look at how to plan a cruise, from your budget to booking, and what to expect along the way.

1. Establish a budget

The first step in planning a cruise is deciding how much money you want to spend. Costs for a cruise will vary based on a number of things, including:

Cruise line.

Destination.

Cruise length.

Number of guests. 

Onboard spending. 

Offshore excursions.

If price is top-of-mind, consider a budget-friendly cruise line. These cruise lines tend to be less glamorous, and you’ll likely be paying for more optional add-ons, such as drink packages and excursions. But you’ll still find plenty of activities to keep you entertained, no matter who you’re cruising with.

You may find deals for as little as $40 per person per night, not including gratuities or any onboard spending. For example, we found a deal for a four-night cruise from Long Beach, Calif., to Ensenada, Mexico, for $169 per person on Carnival.

On the high end, you’re looking at costs as high as $90,000 per person — though these cruises tend to be much longer (nearly six months!) or feature exotic destinations and itineraries.

For example, a 168-night cruise on luxury cruise line Regent Seven Seas — with dozens of stops in ports around the globe — costs more than $97,000 per person.

Of course, your budget will likely fall somewhere in between these low- and high-end examples. The bottom line is that it’s important to plan for a cruise that fits your budget. With such a wide variety of options, odds are you’ll find a price point that's comfortable for you.

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

2. Decide on cruise length

Once you’ve decided how much money you’re willing to spend, you’ll need to see how much vacation time you have available.

If you live far from a port, be sure to factor in the time it takes to get to and from the departure city. Add that to the length of the cruise, and that's how many vacation days you'll need.

To optimize your time off, you'll probably want to try to leave from the closest port possible. If you're on the East Coast, for example, leaving from Miami would require far less travel time than leaving from L.A.

If you’re taking a week-long vacation, a five-night cruise would give you the time to arrive in the port city the day before departure and then return home without feeling rushed.

» Learn more: Are cruises worth it?

3. Choose a destination

How can you plan for a cruise without giving some thought to the destination? The cruise industry is worth more than 7 billion dollars and includes routes all over the world.

If the number of destinations seems a little overwhelming, remember that you've already narrowed down your options by establishing your budget and cruise length.

Many search engines will allow you to look for cruises using these parameters — in addition to helpful filters like departure port and desired departure date.

Your cruise dates will likely affect your destination options. For example, if you want to depart in February, you likely won’t find any cruises going to Alaska . And booking a Caribbean cruise during hurricane season might result in a rerouted itinerary — or even a canceled cruise — if a hurricane forms in the Atlantic.

» Learn more: How to get the best deal on your next cruise

4. Compare cruise lines

Different cruise lines cater to different clientele. Some are geared toward those who want to travel in luxury, while others are designed for spring-breakers or families.

If you’re looking forward to a quiet getaway in the Caribbean but choose a Carnival cruise in the middle of April (i.e. prime college spring break time), you may not have much fun when the pool party gets going.

Do some research on the demographics each cruise line attracts. For a family-friendly cruise, sailing with Disney or Royal Caribbean might be a good choice. Those looking for a calm, adult-only atmosphere may want to choose an itinerary on Viking Cruises.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

5. Book your cruise

There are several different ways to book a cruise, including reserving directly with the cruise line, using an online travel agency or even working with a travel agent.

Each method has its advantages. Booking through an online agency can save you money. Compared to booking directly through the cruise line, though, it may not be as easy to make changes or cancel your reservation if something comes up. If you book through a travel agent, you have the advantage of being able to arrange your cruise and airfare at the same time.

It’s a good idea to compare cruises across all available platforms, because pricing and special add-ons vary. Last-minute cruises can get you serious discounts, as can stacking cash-back opportunities with shopping portals such as Rakuten .

6. Complete your documentation

Once you’ve booked your cruise, you’ll need to submit some documentation, such as an ID, a health declaration, and a credit card to keep on file.

Most of the time, you can also choose to pre-book activities and excursions, though this may depend on the cruise line you’re sailing with.

You’ll want to find out if you need a passport or any visas for your cruise — this will depend on where your cruise is departing from and where it will stop. Be sure to verify this soon after booking your cruise, as obtaining or renewing a passport can take time.

Planning a cruise recapped

Cruises can be an exciting way to visit multiple destinations in a single trip.

When planning a cruise, you’ll want to decide how much you’re willing to spend, where you want to go and the amount of time you have available.

Aside from that, consider what types of cruises you’d like to go on and the people you want to be around. Once everything is taken care of, all that's left to do is enjoy!

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New To Cruising? Here's How to Plan a Cruise

Is this your first cruise? Here is a round-up of steps to make your cruise holidays much better.

Book A Cruise Now

Traveling via a cruise ship is everyone's dream. Still, while planning a cruise vacation, you need to think about many things, especially if you're a first-timer. It starts from choosing a destination to find a cruise line to booking until everything comes in between, including the shore excursions.

Are you eager to discover the hidden sea world on your first cruise? Find out how to get started and begin to plan a cruise trip.

Steps to Remember While You Plan a Cruise Holiday

Step 1: when to go.

Before you start planning a cruise, take some time to research the ports of call and the perfect time to visit that port. Because the most important thing on a cruise vacation is the weather condition as no one wants to spend their vacation facing harsh and unpleasant weather. Thus, take some time and figure out when you want to go.

Step 2: Where to go?

The place doesn't matter because there is always a cruise waiting for you at your homeporting. Some destinations in the world can be traveled year-round on a cruise. Those destinations include Asia, the Caribbean , Europe , Hawaii , Mexico's Riviera, South America , and the South Pacific . Before booking the cruise, you need to consider the places you want to visit. The cruise industry's trendiest destinations are Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Step 3: Set up a budget

Before you head to a travel agent for booking and other inquiries, you need to plan a cruise that is budget friendly. Check out how much cash you can or have to carry on hand. Follow the proper breakdown method of the cruise cost. Things like cruise fare, cost of flights, transfer between airport to the port, gratuities, drinks, activities, exceptional restaurants, shore excursions, and so on.

Step 4: Which cruise line did you choose?

While choosing a cruise line, you need to consider three things- 1. Sophistication, 2. Service, and 3. Predictably. Ensure that you select a cruise line that matches your vacation preferences and gives you an excellent cruising experience. For example, families can choose Disney Cruise Line , Norwegian Cruise Line , or Royal Caribbean .

In contrast, seniors can choose from Crystal or Holland America . Honeymooners can prefer Windstar or Paul Gauguin, and explorers can choose Hurtigruten and Lindblad Expeditions. Even you can ask your friends or family member who has recently done a cruise vacation or take plenty of time in individual research online.

Step 5: How to pick a perfect cruise ship?

To pick a perfect cruise ship , you need to list what you want to do onboard and the places you want to visit. You can also tailor your search by filtering the size of the cruise, aboard offerings, and amenities. For example, smaller cruises offer quieter intimacy and explore smaller ports than more giant sails. Don't forget that the cruise line is divided into different classes. At the same time, you pick a perfect cruise check-in which class you want to travel to. Those five classes are – Mainstream, Premium, Luxury, River Cruises, and Expedition.

Step 6: How to book your cruise?

If you're researching independently, look for the best deals on the official cruise websites or third-party seller deals. Otherwise, consider hiring a travel agent who specializes in offering cruise deals.

Hiring a travel agent can be your best decision instead of buying a cruise deal on your own. They are intimately familiar with cruise ships . They can help you book the right cabin, shore excursion, and entertainment onboard. They also offer discounts and perks that you won't get when you book from websites, such as onboard credit and gratuities.

Step 7: How to choose a cabin?

Choosing a cabin is the most overwhelming task while booking a cruise, especially when you're a first-time cruiser. For example, a midship place will be perfect for you if you don't know whether you will feel seasick or not. The midship point is the fulcrum point where you will feel less movement than aft forward or an upper deck. Or else, if you're on a budget, check out the inside cabins or guarantees. If you plan to visit the Caribbean , the Mediterranean, or Alaska , Balcony cabins have been recommended by experienced cruisers.

Step 8: Make a purchase

To book your itinerary, you need to deposit some amount. The final payments are generally due at or before 90 days before sailing. And don't forget to grab travel insurance once your booking is confirmed. If you are canceling the tour, ensure you check the cruise cancellation policy before purchasing.

Step 9: Make a pre-and post-trip transportation plan

Suppose you're sailing from homeport, you can ask someone to drop and pick you up after the cruise, or else you can hire a cab. But if you're traveling by train, automobile, or plan to the departure port, ensure that you make the pre-and post-trip transportation plan. You can take a flight or train one day before the departure to ensure that you have plenty of time between the embarkation day and the day you fly. Also, your disembark timing should have a time gap with your flights.

Step 10: Organize your information

Take a printout of your documents and make copies sets. The records you should carry must include a flight boarding pass, cruise documents, luggage tags, itinerary, passport and visa, vaccination certificate(if needed), medical insurance, medical prescriptions, and ID Proofs.

Step 11: Check the inclusions and exclusions

It's necessary to check and compare prices based on includes and excludes. It is imperative when you travel in a group or with kids as some cruise lines charge kids, while some offer a free cruise to younger passengers. For example, MSC Cruises provides free cruising for kids under 11 and sets the lowest cruise fee for teens from 12 to 17.

Moreover, don't forget to consider the things included in the entertainment and activity onboard. You need to check all those additional offerings ashore and aboard included in the cruise fare for an accurate value comparison.

Step 12: Prepare for cruise

Create a to-do list of everything you need to do. It will help you determine what things you need to buy and take on a cruise along with you. Experts say that preparation gets better and comfortable when you note down something. Make a short and helpful to-do list far in advance to avoid that last-minute stress. Your to-do list must include things like a packing list, document printouts, informing friends and family members, signup for international call planning, refilling your medical prescriptions, and so on.

Step 13: What to pack?

Packing is a pre-cruise fun activity that makes you feel excited. You start keeping all the useless and unwanted stuff in your luggage. Instead of packing everything, ensure that you pack smartly. Check the destination weather and the activities you plan to do. Pack as much light as you can, it will free up space in your luggage, and you will end up having enough room for your shopping bags. Also, consider booking a laundry service at the time of booking to avoid heavy luggage hauling.

Step 14: Pick Shore Excursions and pre-book

The fun beings as soon as you book your cruise, but when you pre-book your shore excursions, the real adventure begins. Although you can book those shore excursions onboard, consider reserving them in advance when booking your cruise cabin. Avoid the aboard reservations because shore excursions sell out faster than other packages like spas and drinks.

Step 15: Choose onboard Activities

Once things like booking cabins, excursions, and aboard amenities, consider pre-purchase all onboard activities you want to try. The best time to book the abroad activities is after booking your staterooms. You can visit the cruise lines' official websites and download the apps or ask your travel agent about the activities you want to add to your package. Bonus tip: You can even complete your online checking process from that app.

Make the most of the Ship

There is nothing like a right or wrong cruise. With proactive planning, you can always find a better deal and experience the most unforgettable and adventurous vacation. Ensure that you plan a cruise and question yourself, like what type of travel experience you want. And you will get an excellent cruise experience because the cruise is waiting for you. You have to get out and find it.

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8 things seasoned cruisers say you should know before setting foot on your first cruise

• With so many things to do and see on board, taking a cruise for the first time can be overwhelming.
• To help you prepare, seasoned cruisers on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas shared their tips.
• Snag pool chairs early and don't fly in on the day your ship departs, they told Business Insider.

First-time cruisers may feel overwhelmed by the vacation style. It's a new form of transportation for some, and when you're traveling on a large ship with so many places to eat and so many activities and excursions, it can be hard to figure out how to spend your time.

It can be helpful to hear how to make the most of your cruise from those who have done it before. While on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas in April 2022, Business Insider talked to people who had been on multiple cruises. They shared their best tips to help plan an incredible cruise vacation. 

While packing for a cruise, try to keep it light, but make sure you have all the essentials.

Sharon Taylor, who has been on five cruises, told Business Insider that first-timers should be careful not to overpack .

"New cruisers think cruising is a fashion show and pack way too many clothes and shoes, but you wind up just wanting to be comfortable," she said.

For a seven-night cruise, Taylor said she brought two bathing suits, four pairs of shorts, two pairs of shoes, one formal outfit, eight pairs of underwear, and six tops. She planned to buy two more tops on the trip.

Paul Gallifrey, who has been on 30 cruises on various lines, said to pack what you need for the length of the cruise but add a few extra options just in case.

"Maybe you decide to change clothes between pool time and the buffet," Gallifrey said. "An extra shirt and pair of shorts will come in handy."

Gallifrey added that some activities on ships and excursions required specific clothing, such as lace-up shoes for zip lining. Check the cruise line's website for these requirements and pack accordingly.

Don't forget to pack a magnet to make finding your stateroom easier.

Large cruise ships typically have seemingly endless hallways of staterooms with identical doors.

Taylor said to pack magnets to attach to the outside of your door to help you spot it.

"You will be glad you did when you are looking for your room down those long hallways," Taylor added.

If you have to fly into the port your ship is leaving from, book a flight at least one day before departure to avoid missing the boat.

Unless you book a flight through a cruise-line package , the ship will leave without you even if your delayed or canceled flight is what makes you late, Stephanie Franks, who has been on more than 15 cruises, said.

With Royal Caribbean, if you book a flight through the cruise line and it's delayed or canceled, their emergency-travel team will get you on an earlier flight or fly you to the next port to join the cruise, according to the company's website . If you don't book through the cruise line, you'll have to figure it out yourself.

Franks said her friend's flight to Miami got canceled the day before her cruise because of the weather in Florida.

"They hopped in a car and drove 19 hours straight to get here on time. You just never know," she said. "But best to be prepared and early than late."

She recommended flying in at least one day before the ship's departure to leave extra time for delays and cancellations. She said to stay near the port, adding that there were plenty of hotels in Florida with shuttles to the port.

Experienced cruisers recommend booking anything with additional costs before boarding the ship.

On cruise ships , there are often restaurants and activities included in the ticket price and some specialty restaurants that cost extra. When stopping at ports, you can also book excursions for an additional cost.

Once your trip is booked, you can often prepay for dining on the ship and excursions at the ports. Reservations generally fill up quickly, so it's smart to get this done as soon as possible to ensure you get the experiences you want. Plus, you'll probably pay less than if you wait until your trip.

"Do everything you can before getting on board to save money," Tekeshia Browne , who has been on over 100 cruises, told BI, adding that there were discounts for restaurants and excursions ahead of the cruise.

If you are a new cruiser, it's easiest to book excursions with the cruise line.

At each cruise port, passengers may disembark to spend their time as they wish. They might sightsee independently, take a taxi to a beach, link up with a local tour guide, or join an official cruise-line excursion. Gallifrey said first-time cruisers would likely have the easiest time if they chose the last option.

Navigating ports can be confusing, especially if you're taking transportation to your excursion, but if you book through the cruise line, you'll be directed to exactly where you need to go. Some cruise-line excursions even include meals.

"If you are new to cruising and have not had experience arranging excursions, it is sometimes easier to go with the ones from the cruise line," he said, adding that these excursions guaranteed the ship would wait for you if an outing took longer than planned. 

"Self-booked excursions are totally outside of this guarantee," he said.

Some say there's enough to eat, see, and do without spending any more money outside booking your cruise.

Some cruisers say that everything included in the ticket price is enough for a great vacation. You can eat at multiple restaurants on the ship, participate in games and activities, attend shows, and explore the ports at no extra cost.

"You don't really need to spend another penny after you have paid for your cruise. There are plenty of awesome free shows, foods — including the main dining room — and things to do at every port," Taylor said. "At ports, I roam around the shops and look at the artisan stuff made by locals."

No matter how you spend your days off or on your ship, you should always read the daily cruise planner.

On Royal Caribbean cruises, attendants deliver the daily planner, Cruise Compass, to staterooms each night.

From escape rooms and sports games to dance classes and karaoke, the ship is full of scheduled activities that you'll know about only if you read the Cruise Compass or check the Royal Caribbean app.

Vickie Carmody, who has spent 280 nights on cruise ships, said first-timers should read this planner, adding that she skipped it during her first cruise and missed out.

"My first cruise, I was so bored because I didn't know any better," she said. "I missed the welcome-aboard show, the quest, the poolside games like the belly-flop contest and sexiest-man contest, and a lot of the entertainment around the ship."

If you want to just relax by the pool, get a chair early in the day before people or towels have taken them all.

Franks said that by midday on most ships, people took up chairs on pool decks by saving them with towels. So she recommended getting up early to grab a spot at about 6 a.m.

There are rules against saving chairs on cruise ships, but Franks said she has rarely seen them enforced. 

"It tends to be a bigger issue on larger ships, ironically," she said. "The smaller ships go to smaller ports, so I guess people focus more on island excursions than the pool deck."

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17 Invaluable Cruise Tips From a 20-Year Cruise Veteran

By Sue Bryant

Last updated: June 4th, 2024

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Whether you’re planning your maiden voyage or have already sailed the seven seas, you can always get more out of your cruise with some smart advance planning. Here are some cruise tips and tricks for everybody from first-time cruisers to experts.

1: Make Creative Stateroom Choices

Celebrity Cruises Suite

If you’re traveling as a multigenerational group, be creative with the configuration of your accommodation. For example, parents and grandparents would appreciate a private veranda, while kids could have an inside stateroom across the corridor. Consider interconnecting rooms—there are plenty on Celebrity’s ships—or The Retreat , where your family of four could enjoy the comfort and space of a two-bedroom suite.

Take a look at The Retreat if you’re a couple, too, as the extra amenities in this blissful sanctuary make a romantic vacation that much better, from premium beverages to an exclusive restaurant, Luminae , and a serene, private lounge and deck.

Read: How to Choose the Best Stateroom on a Cruise

2: Pack Smart

Experienced cruisers have all sorts of cruise tips and tricks for packing , some more unexpected than others. For example, magnets will attach loose pieces of paper, like excursion tickets and party invitations, to your cabin wall. Colorful towel clips will stop your beach towel from flying off your lounger on a breezy day. Compression cubes are perfect for squeezing more into your luggage, while hanging washbags mean you can store toiletries vertically, rather than cluttering the bathroom.

Invest in a travel pill organizer for any meds to avoid packing endless bottles, and a jewelry roll to keep everything together. A USB octopus means you can charge multiple devices from one USB socket, although power extension strips are not allowed. A thermal water flask will keep your drinking water cool all day and is more environmentally sound, as you won’t be discarding half-full plastic bottles once they warm up.

A tote bag is perfect for the beach (if you’ve chosen The Retreat, you’ll find a very chic complimentary one waiting in your suite). If you’re planning kayaking trips or are headed to the Galapagos , where you’ll be zooming around on Zodiacs, a roll-top wet bag keeps valuables dry.

Finally, pack everything you need for the first afternoon of embarkation day in your carry-on, not least swimwear, a cover-up, and sunblock, so you don’t have to wait for your suitcases to be delivered to your stateroom.

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

3: Arrive a Day Early

Venice, Italy

If you’re traveling long distance, why not add on a night in a hotel before joining the ship? You’ll be able to enjoy a little local culture on your first night—for example, a stroll through Venice , or fresh seafood in Athens with a view of the floodlit Acropolis—and sleep off some jetlag. You’ll arrive at the port fresh and ready for an adventure at sea.

Read: What Are the Longest Cruises You Can Take?

4: Get to Know the Ship

Camp at Sea

Part of the fun of the first day is exploring your new home, and a wise cruise tip from experienced sailors is to take a self-guided ship tour. This way, you’ll figure out where you want to sunbathe, eat, and relax, find classes you like the look of, and see the array of activities on offer in Camp at Sea.

You’ll be given a map of the ship, or can use your Celebrity app to explore. Start on the highest possible deck and work your way methodically down. You’ll be amazed at how much you learn—which restaurants beckon, the enticing treatments on offer in the aromatic haven of the spa, the best spot from which to enjoy the thrill of sailaway on your first evening.

If you’re traveling as a family with young children, knowing the shortest routes around the ship is always a good idea, as you’ll inevitably be dashing back to your stateroom every now and then for forgotten items.

Read: How to Plan a Cruise for a Large Family

5: Budget for Beverages

Depending on your habits, investing in a beverage package can be one of the best cruise tips to follow. It’s easy on the carefree, sunny days of vacation to enjoy a couple of glasses of wine with lunch, a sundowner as you set sail, more wine with your evening meal, and then some cocktails in the nightclub.

It’s not all about booze; other beverage packages offer non-alcoholic drinks, some cater to kids, and others include just soda or mineral water.

6: Match Your Tech To Your Itinerary

There’s no need to bring an entire mobile office, but think about what you might need at the destinations you’re visiting on your cruise itinerary . In Alaska, binoculars are essential for wildlife spotting, as is a camera with a zoom lens. An essential cruise tip here is to bring a spare battery, as nobody wants a dead camera just as that pod of orcas appears.

You can’t fly a drone from a ship—but some of the tiniest models, for which you don’t need a license, are appropriate for catching those ‘wow’ aerial shots of, say, the Stockholm archipelago, or the dazzling gold and turquoise sweep of a Caribbean beach. Always check, though, whether your mini-drone is legal.

If you’re sailing somewhere tropical and are likely to be snorkeling or diving, consider a GoPro or a waterproof case for your smartphone for underwater shots. For long city tours involving a lot of walking, a heavy camera can be a burden, but a smartphone is perfect for street shots and video.

Read: What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

7: Use the Celebrity Cruises App

Celebrity Cruises app

If you haven’t tried the Celebrity Cruises app on previous cruises, now’s the time. On a practical basis, the app makes boarding swifter and allows you to snap up dining and excursion reservations. But it’s fun, too. The in-app calendar is a fantastic tool for scheduling your day, rather than scribbling on the printed daily program.

The chat function is the perfect way to keep track of friends and family on board. You can manage your expenses, too. You can even use your smartphone to open your cabin door or control the lights and shades from your bed.

8: Try a Capsule Wardrobe

St. Petersburg, Russia

If you prefer to travel light, a good cruise tip is to plan a wardrobe that works hard. Each item needs to match other items, so keep the color palette minimalist. One pair of pants, for example, can be paired with any number of floaty tops, or with sneakers by day and strappy sandals by night.

One relatively simple summer dress can be accessorized with statement jewelry, scarves, and different shoes, and worn by day after it’s made an appearance for dinner. Lightweight travelers suggest just three pairs of shoes: one pair for walking, flip flops for the ship, and something more dressy for evening.

Roofdeck Garden

The dress code on Celebrity Cruises’ ships is smart casual throughout, with a couple of Evening Chic evenings per cruise. You don’t need a ball gown or tuxedo for these—although some cruisers nonetheless love stepping out in full sparkle. The reality, though, is that everybody is having too much of a good time to judge what you’re wearing every day.

9: Skip the Travel-sized Toiletries

Small bottles are generally environmentally unsound, so buy a set of reusable travel-sized bottles and decant your favorite products before leaving home if you like to travel with a particular brand. Shampoo, conditioner, liquid soap, and soap bars are provided, in any case.

Royal Suite bathroom

If you are bringing big bottles, like sunblock, double wrap them in plastic. Nobody wants to open their suitcase to a gooey mess. Aromatherapy oils, too, have a habit of leaking, and while tea tree is great for insect bites, and lavender for sleep and soothing sunburn, wrap them tightly unless you want to wander around the ship smelling like an intense herbal aroma.

10: Make Breakfast an Occasion

While the choices in the Oceanview Cafe are undeniably mouth-watering, mix it up a little, especially if you have kids in tow and you’re eating at peak time, when everybody is getting ready to go on tour. Change out the bustle of the cafe for a more serene experience in the main restaurant, where you’ll enjoy table service, made-to-order omelettes, and delicious specials like eggs Benedict or pancakes with maple syrup.

11: Plan Specialty Dining

Lawn Club Grill

You’ll probably be booking several of the specialty restaurants on board, so plan your time wisely. If you’re ashore all day on a long excursion, you’ll most likely be tired, so this might be the night for a quiet dinner in the main dining room.

If there’s a sunset sailaway from somewhere exceptionally beautiful, like Santorini, for example, make that the day you dine at the Lawn Club Grill or the Rooftop Garden Grill on Edge or Apex. If you only choose one specialty experience and you’re cruising with kids, go for Le Petit Chef, a spectacular animation experience that thrills and entertains all ages.

Booking spa treatments early evening, when there’s usually more availability, is tempting, but don’t leave it too late on big evenings like the cocktail hour. On the other hand, on a sailing day, especially if there’s an Evening Chic dress code, soak up some sun, dress up to the nines, and make this your night in Murano, where an elegant outfit matches the beautiful setting.

12: Take Time Out

If you’re a seasoned cruiser and are perhaps revisiting old haunts in Europe , why not take a day off? This is particularly rewarding—and feels slightly decadent—in the heat of the Mediterranean summer, but with so much sightseeing on offer, exhaustion is a real issue. So book a spa treatment for a port day when there are usually special offers, or occupy prime position by the pool, enjoying the sensation of having the ship to yourself, like a luxurious private yacht.

If you do venture ashore, do as the locals do. Sit for hours in a beautiful square with morning coffee and head back on board for a siesta. If your ship has a late sail, take a stroll in port at sunset and stop for aperitivos, followed by a late dinner on board.

13: Document Your Voyage

Most of us take photographs and videos, but thinking of other ways you could document your vacation is one of the best cruise tips to help you remember your vacation. You could pack a sketch pad and pencils and give drawing a try—nobody will judge if you can only manage a stick figure. Try creative writing; sit in some gorgeous waterfront café, or on deck at sunset, and describe what you see. Or try a video app and get creative with micro-movies.

You could even try a sound diary, recording snippets of sound on your phone as a memory—the chatter of dolphins, the cry of a bird, the clackety-clack of a train, the bustle of a restaurant. Ask the whole family for their best shots at the end of the trip and create a photo book. Or collect ticket stubs and other scraps—more of a challenge in the digital age—for a good, old-fashioned vacation scrapbook.

14: Keep the Family Happy

One of the joys of cruising in a multigenerational group is that there’s enough variety on board for everybody. A ship is the perfect environment in which families can scatter, do their own thing, and meet up at an agreed time and place to enjoy quality time together.

For example, your teens might want to visit the Teen Club, while grandparents may head out on a tour while you work out in the gym or relax in the privacy of your veranda. Maybe agree to meet for lunch, or take a couple of fantastic family-friendly excursions . There’s no pressure to do everything as a group, though, and the joy of a cruise ship is that it’s safe for all ages.

Read: Best Cruises for Teens

15: Make Exercise Fun

Celebrity yoga class

If you exercise regularly at home, there’s every possibility on a Celebrity Cruises ship to keep up your routine with some exciting classes. On Edge-series ships, join a high-energy, live-streamed class on the Peloton bikes. Get the whole family signed up for a salsa class, or simply inhale the sea air on an early morning power walk. Use the stairs instead of the elevator. Wear an activity tracker and see if you can hit 10,000 steps a day—it’s really not difficult on a ship.

16: Manage Your Time Ashore

Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires

There are some ports that invite wandering. Mykonos Town and Barcelona , for example, are easy to navigate. Venice is a place to lose yourself among the tranquil canals and alleyways, while Juneau in Alaska is a joy to wander at your own pace or try the friendly public bus service to reach the Mendenhall Glacier.

On the other hand, from Naples , you’ll want to visit the excavations at Pompeii, which is infinitely better with a guide. A tour is a reassuring and more effective way to navigate the teeming chaos of Bangkok. South American ports are trickier if you don’t speak Spanish, and cities like Buenos Aires and Santiago are, in any case, sprawling.

However you spend your day, though, be back on time! Unless you’re on an official excursion, the ship won’t wait.

17: Reinvent Yourself

Martini Bar

Cruising is undeniably exciting and romantic, so let go of your everyday stresses and rediscover the real you. Nobody here knows you, so you can be whoever you like. This is the time for sartorial expression, so let your fashion imagination run wild. At home, you may not sit at a glamorous cocktail bar, sipping a martini and wearing a sparkly dress, or a suave summer tuxedo, but in the elegant setting of a Celebrity Cruises ship, why not?

Push your boundaries, however gently. Boost your adrenaline with a new activity, like zip-lining or a high-speed RIB tour. Stay up insanely late, dancing. Try karaoke. Or get up early, head up on deck, and watch the sunrise. You can always snooze during the day.

Join a class on board and learn a new skill. Meet new people and let them see the you that isn’t encumbered by school runs and office commutes. You may surprise yourself.

Inspired to set sail? The whole world awaits, so start exploring our thrilling destinations and browse itineraries on our website .

Sue has been writing about cruising for 20 years and is lucky enough to have sailed all seven continents. She lives in London, where she is cruise editor of The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers, as well as a freelance contributor to magazines and websites worldwide.

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How to Plan a Cruise

Last Updated: February 22, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by Angela Rice . Angela Rice is a Luxury Travel Specialist and Co-Founder of Boutique Travel Advisors, a luxury travel advising business in Phoenix, Arizona. Angela specializes in consulting and curating highly customized and unique travel itineraries for clients seeking luxury, group, and multi-generational family travel. Angela studied at Arizona State University and The University of Iowa Tippie College of Business. She has prior consulting experience in accounting and business, which helps her run her business behind the scenes. Angela has been featured in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, Travel Weekly, USA Today, Travel Market Report, Phoenix Magazine, and MSN. She is also a frequent guest on WBBM News Radio 105.9 FM's Travel Tuesday show. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 30,402 times.

Cruises combine the excitement of travel, the relaxation of a guided vacation, and the value of the price. Cruising is also a wonderful way to sample the locales of an entire region, rather than have to stick to one city. By planning in advance, finding good deals, and packing properly, you and your family will be able to enjoy a wonderful, stress-free cruise vacation.

Picking Your Cruise

• The best year-round destinations are Hawaii, Asia, the Caribbean, Riviera Maya (Mexico), South Asia, and the South Pacific. [2] X Research source
• Some of the most popular first-timer destinations include the Mexican Riviera, the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Bermuda, Canada, Europe, and Hawaii. [3] X Research source

• If you choose to fly, you will need to budget in the extra cost of flying to and from the port, as well as the cost of a hotel if you want to stay the night before departure and the night you get back.

• Do you want more city or countryside stops?
• Would you rather have more days at sea or stops at ports?
• Also take into account the types of off-ship excursions that the stop will offer. Do you want more adventurous or relaxing excursions?
• Almost every cruise includes one full day at sea, so that is likely a given.

• Take into account who you want to share the cruise with. Traveling with like-minded passengers can make the experience far more enjoyable. Do you want to cruise with fellow partiers, families, or seniors?
• You should also consider size. Do you want the intimacy of a smaller ship or the anonymity of a larger ship?

Booking Your Tickets

• Some cruise lines offer incentives to book early, such as prepaid gratuities or a free dinner in a specialty restaurant, so planning ahead could save you some money.

• Cruise lines also sometimes offer special short-notice deals and incentives for cruises that haven't filled completely.

• You can often find good deals when booking directly through the cruise line.
• Travel agents often offer special perks and discounts like on-ship credit and prepaid gratuities. [10] X Research source

• If you do choose to go with an agent, make sure they know what you want and your budget. Ask lots of questions and don’t let them push you into anything you aren’t completely happy with. [12] X Research source

• If this is your first cruise, choose a midship cabin located on a lower deck. If you find out that you do tend to get seasick, this will be the best place for you as it experiences the least amount of movement.
• If you’re on a tighter budget, look into windowless rooms and “guarantees,” which may let you upgrade to a better room for free if one is available.
• If you have a bit more freedom with your budget, consider booking a balcony room with amazing views of the scenery as you cruise by.

• Consider what kind of excursion you're drawn to--active or sightseeing activities, full or half-day tours, guided or free time, and highlights or in-depth. [14] X Research source

Packing for the Cruise

• Generally, cruise lines will expect you to dress nicely on and off the ship, so remember that swimsuits and extremely casual wear are only allowed around the pool area and when participating in active excursions.
• In the cruise restaurants and main areas, you are expected to dress nicely and modestly. [16] X Research source
• Coming to a port in scruffy clothes is considered disrespectful, so take time to dress well on days on shore as well. [17] X Research source

• For example, when traveling in certain Middle Eastern countries, you’ll need to dress modestly and women will need to bring scarves to cover their head and shoulders. [18] X Research source

• Bring books and magazines, as the ship's library may have some options but likely won't be extensive.
• For wildlife-focused excursions, bring a pair of binoculars.
• If you're traveling with kids, consider bringing some inflatable water toys.
• If you plan on snorkeling often, bring your own gear and avoid rental fees. [20] X Research source

• This is especially important when cruising in cold climates, such as Alaska. You may even need to bring fleece jackets, hats, and gloves.

Expert Q&A

• Ask friends about cruises they have been on and what they enjoyed and did not enjoy about the cruise. Sometimes friends and family members are your best resource as to which cruise line you should choose. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
• Search for problematic cruise lines on the Internet. Customer reviews will help you determine the pros and cons of any cruise line. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Contact your local travel agency if you need help or have any questions. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• If your cruise is scheduled for a spring or summer month to an area where hurricanes are common, keep a close eye on the weather before making your voyage. Cruise ships do a great job of avoiding such inclement weather but it will definitely put a damper on your vacation. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Keep in mind that if there is any unrest or rioting in a port stop, the cruise line may choose to skip that stop. This clause is written into the cruise contract, so you will have to miss that stop and gain another day at sea. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ Angela Rice. Travel Specialist. Expert Interview. 18 September 2020.
• ↑ http://www.fodors.com/cruises/news/photos/the-everything-guide-to-planning-a-cruise#!3-where-can-i-sail
• ↑ https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=54
• ↑ http://www.fodors.com/cruises/101/planning-your-cruise/booking-your-cruise
• ↑ https://blog.wa.aaa.com/travel/cruises/how-to-pick-and-plan-your-first-cruise/
• ↑ https://magazine.northeast.aaa.com/daily/travel/ocean-cruises/cruise-faq-how-to-book-a-cruise/
• ↑ https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=79
• ↑ https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=76

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The Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise

How to Plan a Cruise – Are you dreaming of white sand beaches and turquoise water? You’re not alone! Cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel. You don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting from Point A to Point B, you get to travel to extraordinary places, and you get to experience incredible things. It truly is one of the best ways to travel.

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or experienced cruise travelers, there are tons of little details that you need to think about when you plan a cruise. You’ll need to decide where you want to travel when you want to cruise, and what you’ll be doing in port. You’ll also have to consider things like the location of your cabin, what you should pack, and other ins-and-outs of cruising.

Does this sound a little daunting? No worries! We’ve created the Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise!

Here’s how to plan a cruise- everything from researching ports and shore excursions to planning your packing list – we’ve got you covered!

Table of Contents

Step 1: Planning the Details of your Caribbean Cruise

This is one of my favorite parts of planning a cruise. During this phase, you’ll figure out when you want to travel, where you want to travel, and how long you would like to be out to sea.

When To Book a Cruise

There is plenty to consider when you’re trying to decide when to cruise. Firstly, since we’re focusing on the Caribbean here, it is important to note that hurricane season officially lasts from June 1 to November 30th . The season tends to peak in September.

Traditionally, this is when you’ll see the lowest cruise fares. Some people tend to steer away from traveling during hurricane season however, I’m not one of those people. Oftentimes, when there is a storm your itinerary will change a bit. I’ve had two cruise itineraries that were impacted by a tropical storm or hurricane. On the first one, we simply skipped a port and had an extra sea day. On the second one, we visited Grand Turk instead of St. Thomas .

Planning a cruise during the shoulder season, or off-season can help you save money on your cruise. Of course, you’ll see the highest cruise fares during holidays and cruising seasons. You’ll pay more money to sail during the December holidays as well as from late January throughout Easter, due to Spring Break.

Personally, my favorite months to cruise are September, October, January, and March.

[ More Information About the Best Time To Book a Cruise ]

How Long to Cruise

After deciding when to travel, you’ll want to figure out how long you want to be at sea. Cruises can last anywhere from 2 or 3 days to a week, and even longer! Depending on where you depart from, the shorter cruises will focus on the Western Caribbean, Mexico , The Bahamas , and the US Virgin Islands . When you select longer cruises, you’ll be able to venture down to the Southern Caribbean to more “exotic” ports.

Pro-Tip: Don’t forget to account for your transit time! I like to arrive at my departure port a day in advance. That way I can wake up, leave the hotel, and hop right on the ship.

The perfect cruise length will vary for everyone. My favorite cruises have always been weeklong ones. Shorter 5-day cruises may be more suitable for those traveling with children (especially if you’re going during the school year). When we plan a cruise, I tend to look for 7+ day cruises.

Deciding Where to Go

This is my favorite part of the planning process. I love playing with my departure date and departure port to see what ports are available during the time I’d like to travel. Being from Florida, I have several ports to choose from: Jacksonville, Port Canaveral (Orlando), Tampa, and Miami. Even if you aren’t from Florida, you can consider leaving from different ports to see what options are available to you.

The Caribbean is generally split into three regions: Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean. If you’re interested in going to the Southern Caribbean, you’ll probably want to/need to leave from Miami or Puerto Rico.

View My Favorite Caribbean Ports An Upclose Look at the Zones of the Caribbean – Western, Eastern & Southern

Western Caribbean Cruises

Western Caribbean cruises typically feature destinations such as Grand Turk, Grand Cayman , Cozumel , Jamaica, or Costa Maya . The week-long cruises will often times visit Belize and Roatan , as well.

The Western Caribbean is perfect for adventurers, history buffs, and beach bums. This is where you’ll find the Maya ruins of Tulum , Xunantunich , Cahal Pech , Chichen Itza, as well as many others. Snorkeling and diving are also top-notch here, especially near Belize and Mexico where you’ll find the Blue Hole.

Other popular excursions include off-road ATV adventures, catamaran rides, ziplining, and other cultural experiences.

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Eastern Caribbean cruises often feature ports such as San Juan , St. Thomas , St. Maarten , Amber Cove , Tortola, Grand Turk , and The Bahamas . Itineraries typically range from the 5 to 7-night range, however, they can be shorter if you’re looking to just zip over to The Bahamas from Florida .

The Eastern Caribbean is full of colonial history, pirate history, shopping, beautiful beaches, and volcanic islands with lush green hillsides. These are easily some of the most stunning places in the Caribbean! What’s even cooler is many of these ports offer excursions that will take you to nearby islands such as St. John and St. Barts which are a bit more off the beaten path.

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Last but not least, is the Southern Caribbean. These itineraries require a bit more time but trust me, they are totally worth it! Since the ports are further from the United States, the cruises tend to be in the 7+ day range and cost a bit more. Cruises that venture to the southern Caribbean often feature Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, and the ABC Islands ( Aruba , Bonaire , Curacao) on their itineraries.

Many cruises that hit these ports leave out of Miami or Puerto Rico, so it is important to take that into consideration when booking the trip, as well.

Research Cruise Lines

There are plenty of options when it comes to selecting which company you would like to cruise with. The most popular being Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian. Each cruise line offers a different experience, a vast array of onboard amenities, and even a handful of different ports of call. Take a look at all of your options as you plan for a cruise.

Picking a Departure Port

As I mentioned before, there are several departure ports from Florida . Florida is home to Jacksonville, Port Canaveral (Orlando), Tampa, and Miami. However, you aren’t limited to just leaving from Florida. You can also access the Caribbean from Galveston, New Orleans, Charleston, Baltimore, and even New York. Cruises also leave out of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

If you want to plan a cruise to the Western Caribbean I would suggest leaving from Tampa, Miami, New Orleans, or Galveston. If you’re looking to plan a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean or The Bahamas you can really leave from any of the ports.

Step 2: Booking Your Caribbean Cruise

Awesome, so you’ve figured out when and where you want to go, now it’s time to start booking your cruise.

Decide on the Ship and Dates

Alright, now it is time to narrow down your choices, do one last itinerary comparison and compare the final cost of each option so see which one works best for you.

For instance, if you want to do a week-long Eastern Caribbean cruise leaving from Miami in March, you’ll have several different options to choose from- the ship, the dates, the itinerary, the cost, etc. This is all part of the fun when you plan a cruise!

Once you have decided which cruise line to go with, you can use their search tool to add in your date ranges, departure port, cruise lengths, and any other parameters you want to search for. In doing so, you’ll see all of the details including which ships are leaving out of the ports during that time and where they will be heading.

Select Your Cabin Type

Once you’ve narrowed it down to which ship you’ll be sailing on, it is time to select your cabin. Not only can you select what type of cabin you want but you can also select where on the ship you want your cabin to be.

The cabin options range from budget-friendly interior cabins to oceanview cabins, balcony cabins, and various suites.

Interior Cabins

Although the interior cabins are a bit more inexpensive, they do not have any natural light and may not be the best option if you get claustrophobic. Personally, I love interior cabins because I sleep like a baby without having the sun wake me up.

6 Benefits of Booking an Interior Cabin

Exterior Cabins

Exterior cabins will either have a window or a balcony. Balconies will cost you a little more than a window but are a nice perk. There’s nothing quite like waking up, stepping out onto your balcony, and taking a moment to soak in the view. I love ordering a pot of coffee and breakfast from Room Service and enjoying it on my balcony

Trust me, location is everything! If you pick the wrong cabin, you can easily have many sleepless nights on your journey.

You’ll be able to choose between forward, midship, or aft. You’ll also be able to select what floor you want to stay on. Pay close attention to the floor plan of the ship. Rooms by the elevator bays tend to have more noise coming from the atrium. The same can be said for cabins near the clubs, pool, bars, etc.

Pro-Tip: Cabins that are located midship and closer to sea level will receive less movement if you are concerned about seasickness .

Make Your Travel Plans

Consider where your embarkation port is and decide on what travel arrangements will need to be made. For instance, if you’re leaving from San Juan, you’ll have to book a flight to Puerto Rico. Depending on where you are coming in from, you may need to fly or drive a substantial distance to get to your departure port.

You’ll also need to book a hotel room, preferably close to the departure port. Another thing you’ll need to look into is to see if the terminal allows Uber drivers to enter the port area, or if they allow permit taxis.

I typically arrive in town the day before my cruise. It would really suck to be stuck in traffic on I-95 when you’re supposed to be boarding your ship.

Book Your Shore Excursions

Y’all, excursions are my favorite part of the cruise! An excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money.

Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours. While you won’t need to book an excursion in all ports of call, it is a great way to get out there and experience what the port has to offer.

You’ll generally have between 5-10 hours in port, but this varies based on the itineraries. Depending on how much time you have in port, and what excursion you select you may have additional time to explore the port on your own or do some shopping, as well.

Historical Tours

The Caribbean is a treasure chest of history…literally. If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to schedule at least one historical tour. These can range from bus tours, to walking tours. They are a great way to learn all about the local history.

Our favorite historical tours have been

• Xunantunich Maya Ruins in Belize
• Cahal Pech Maya Ruins in Belize
• Tulum Maya Ruins in Mexico
• English Harbour & Nelson’s Dockyard tour in Antigua
• Historic Island Tour in St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Antigua

Adventure Tours

These tours are for adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers. There are tons of adventure options in each port. They do tend to be on the pricier side (due to insurance purposes), but they are typically totally worth the cost!

Our favorite adventure tours have been-

• Zip-Lining and Cave Tubing in Belize
• Swimming with Sharks & Rays in Belize
• Swimming with Stingrays in Grand Cayman
• Off-Road ATVing in Aruba
• Exploring the Caves of Rio Secreto in Mexico

Beach and Snorkel Tours

Grab your sunscreen and snorkel gear and hit the beach! Or, even better- hop on a catamaran and head out to the reef. There’s nothing quite like spending the day at a beach in the Caribbean. The beaches there are some of the most gorgeous on the planet. Many catamaran tours include time to snorkel and time at the beach. It’s a win-win!

Our favorite beach adventures have been-

• Little French Key in Roatan
• Hopping over to St. John from St. Thomas
• Catamaran and snorkel tour in Nassau and Cozumel
• Magens Bay in St. Thomas
• Snorkeling in Bonaire

Booking Your Excursion

All of the excursions will be listed on your cruise company’s website. You can typically start booking once you’ve made your deposit. If you’re booking through the cruise line, it is a good idea to book in advance- the popular tours often sell out.

Do I Need to Book an Excursion?

Your best bet is to do a bit of research. There are some ports where you can absolutely get away without having to book an excursion whereas others you’ll regret not doing so.

Research your destinations and decide what you’re most interested in doing in each port. Then, set a budget and go from there.

We’re working on a series that will answer this question for you in EVERY PORT we’ve visited and we’re laying out our favorite excursions. We’ll be adding to the list below each time a post is released.

Do I need to book an excursion in…

• …Amber Cove?
• …Aruba?
• …Belize?
• …Bonaire?
• …Cozumel?
• …Grand Cayman?
• …Grand Turk?
• …Half Moon Cay?
• …Mahogany Bay?
• …Nassau?

See also: 5 Ports Where Cruisers Stay on the Ship

Booking Through the Cruise Line vs. Booking With a Third Party

Honestly, booking through the ship is truly the easiest way to book an excursion, especially for beginners. The tours are easy to find, select, and pay for. You can even book them right on board the ship! While you may pay a little more for these tours, one huge advantage is that the ship guarantees that they will wait for you if an issue arises on your tour and you’re late getting back to port.

Obviously, nobody is forcing you to book through the ship. You can absolutely book an excursion through a third-party vendor. Many of the larger vendors, like Shore Excursions Group , Viator , and Resort for a Day , may even guarantee that they’ll get you back on time or pay for your travel arrangements to get you to your next port of call.

One advantage of booking with a third party company is they typically have smaller tour groups.

When Should I Book My Excursion?

My rule of thumb is, if it is something I really want to do- I book it.

If it is something I am on the fence about, or if I’m toying around with different options- I hold off.

Step 3: After You Book Your Cruise

Alright, sweet. You’re heading to the Caribbean. You’re stoked, I’m stoked, we’re all stoked. It’s time to start planning out those small details that will make your journal stress-free. Things like planning out who will take care of your pets, holding your mail, ensuring you have your medications, and of course- packing! Oh, and please….check the expiration date on your passport!

Here’s a list to help get you started:

12 Things To Do Before Your Cruise

Create a Packing List

This is something you’ll really want to put some thought into. You’ll want to consider what excursions you’ve planned, beachwear, evening wear, formal night, theme nights, etc.

Here are some lists for you to consider:

• What Every Cruiser Needs in their Embarkation Bag
• 13 Things I Keep in my Beach/Pool Bag

Bon Voyage!

That’s it, folks! Our step-by-step guide on how we plan a cruise! With some planning, research, and a positive mindset, you’re sure to have an amazing time checking out all of the incredible things the Caribbean has to offer.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

Be sure to give us a like on  Facebook  or follow us on  Instagram   and  Twitter   for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Updated: 7/6/22

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39 comments.

I’ve never been on a cruise, reading about planning one has really made consider going on one

Elle MacRae

It’s definitely a unique way of traveling. While you only get to spend several hours in each port, it’s a great way to introduce yourself to new places. Thanks for stopping in, Gloria.

We love, love, love taking our large family on Carnival Cruises – 8 kids, 3 cabins…. and mom doesn’t have to cook, clean or entertain. Relaxation, here we come. 🙂

Oh wow! Another great thing about cruising with kids is all of the activities and clubs they have available. I imagine you hardly ever see your older kids!

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5 easy steps for planning your 2024 and 2025 cruise trip.

With a little help from our friends at sailor services..

Planning a vacation can be daunting, but with our 5 easy steps to plan your next cruise vacation, you'll be off to the high seas in style!

Steps on How to Plan a Cruise

Between financial concerns, choosing a destination , figuring out what to pack, and decision paralysis, it might start sounding more tantalizing to simply stay home on the couch. But planning a cruise trip doesn’t have to look like a labyrinth of multiple web browser tabs and Excel budget spreadsheets. Planning a cruise can even be easier than trying to choose a movie on Netflix (and certainly less contentious for your family). One of the reasons we love planning cruise vacations is because they’re not just more straightforward than your typical vacation – they’re more fun too!  

Reasons to Plan your 2024 and 2025 cruise vacation

That’s especially true with our lineup of 2024 cruises and 2025 cruises . We’ve got 27 new voyages on deck for the next two years, sailing to new destinations like Spain’s sunny coast, the Great Barrier Reef, and Grand Turk. You may have missed 2023 cruises, but when you sit down to plan a cruise trip for next year – well, you’ve got us there… the decisions can seem endless for exciting destinations around the world. But we’re making it as easy as possible to book adults only cruises for 2024 and 2025. Whether you're sailing to tropical Caribbean waters for a Caribbean cruise or venturing “Down Under” in the South Pacific, for an Australia cruise, here are five essential steps to help you plan your next cruise .

5 pro tips for planning a cruise

No matter which of our cruise itineraries piques your interest, there’s a pretty simple blueprint for planning your trip:

• Think about why you want to take your cruise vacation: Asking yourself “why?” when planning a vacation might sound like a stupid question, because… duh, everyone deserves a fun getaway, and planning ahead will help you get there. But are you celebrating a bachelorette party? An anniversary? A family reunion? Or maybe you’re just looking for a relaxing solo escape? No matter what your reason for celebrating with a cruise , we make the occasion more special with our intimate and elevated eateries, adventurous Shore Excursions, shipwide activities and events, and Manor nightclub brimming with party vibes.
• Set a travel and spending budget: This doesn’t have to be the scary part of booking a cruise vacation. Setting a budget is actually pretty easy when you take an always included luxury cruise , because unlike a typical vacation, your expenses aren’t a moving target. With this always included cruise pacakage, food at our 20+ eateries, gratuity, WiFi, group workout classes, entertainment, and basic beverages are all included in your booking fare. Of course, you can always splurge on alcoholic drinks or Shore Things (both totally worth it, in our opinion) but otherwise, there are no hidden costs lying in wait to break your budget.  
• Explore where you want to travel and activities you’d like to do:  The hardest part about planning a cruise trip is choosing where to go. With over 100 dreamy destinations around the world, it’s tough to go wrong finding the best cruise vacation. Start by asking yourself a basic question: “What do I want to do?” Zipline through a jungle? Relax at a beach club? See exotic wildlife? Whether you end up venturing to the South Pacific to see koala bears in Australia, or kicking back at our Bimini Beach Club in the Bahamas, browsing our Shore Things is the perfect way to do some destination market research. You'll also want to consider where the closest cruise port is located as a starting point to finding the best cruise vacation. You may also want to explore our cruise ships to ensure you'll have some onboard activities to look forward to.
• Discover deals and payment plans for your trip:  Everyone loves a deal. Including us. Whether it’s special romance packages, or 20% off our summer sailings, our 2024 cruise deals are here to make it even easier to stay within your budget when you plan and book your next cruise. You can even finance your cruise with monthly payments and $0 down. 
• Pack your bags and just show up:  The more unknowns in your trip, the heavier you need to pack. Cruising doesn’t come with many unknowns. You know exactly what amenities to expect, how long you’ll be on shore, and what restaurants are at your fingertips. That means you can pack much lighter than you would for a traditional vacation. We live by a “come as you are” mentality, so there’s no need to bring any fancy attire (unless you wish). If you want, every day can be spent entirely in flip flops and a bathing suit. And since you won’t exactly be roughing it in Arctic conditions, there’s no need for many layers beyond a rain jacket, just in case of rain. Certain Shore Things might have specific packing tips , which you should always follow, but other than that – a minimalist packing philosophy is a safe bet on Virgin Voyages.

Get help planning from our AI chatbot and friends at Sailor Services

The other great thing about planning a cruise, is that you don’t have to go at it alone, nor do you have to enlist the help of an outside travel agent. Vivi, our Generative AI powered chatbot, is here to answer your questions . If you need something more in depth, reach out to our Sailor Services team, who’s ready to provide end-to-end support and answer any questions you may have for planning a cruise – from destination and cabin selection to booking Shore Things once you’re onboard. Contact Sailor Services via our online portal, email, or by phone.

Put our vacation planning tips to the test and find your perfect vacation spot for 2024 and 2025.

How to Plan a Cruise Trip

What are the best things to know to plan my first cruise?

How far in advance should i plan a cruise trip, how do i find the best deals to plan a last minute cruise, do i need a passport for my cruise trip, related articles, plan ahead and sail into 2025 with our brand new vacation cruise itineraries., no dress code no problem. how to dress on a virgin voyages cruise., introverts and extroverts alike; our voyages have something for everyone..

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Police in California are investigating a disturbing incident that is being investigated as a hate crime.

Police say a severed pig's head was found Monday morning at a home in the Natomas neighborhood of Sacramento.

Sister station KCRA spoke to the homeowner of where the pig was found and they asked not to be identified.

"It's kind of intimidating, disturbing, and a bit frightening," he said.

According to the homeowner, he and his wife were getting ready to leave for work when they discovered the severed head of the pig on their front doorstep. They immediately called the Sacramento Police Department.

"The head was positioned pointing to the door, and it had a nail on its nose, with what looked like blood all over it," he said.

Police and Animal Control officers responded. There is no suspect information, but police are hoping there might be home security video that leads them to a suspect.

The family shared some of the security camera video that shows a person in a hooded sweatshirt dropping off the pig's head around 10:30 p.m. Sunday.

"Why would somebody take so much time in the middle of the night to go ahead and do this? To what end? And what was the purpose of it? You know, sometimes you can rationalize with these people, but I'd like to understand why," he said.

The family said they've lived in the same house for nearly 20 years and have never experienced anything like this before. KCRA captured video of numerous neighbors who stopped by to console the family.

"I would like all the like people in our neighborhood to be vigilant because today it's me. Tomorrow, it could be anybody. And if you see something, please report it," he said.

Police are still working with the family to gather more surveillance footage to get a better description of who might have done this.

The family is asking that if you know who might have done this, call Sacramento police.

Officers said they have taken a hate crime report from the victims.

More From Forbes

Train chatgpt to write your linkedin posts in 5 easy steps.

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Train ChatGPT to write your LinkedIn posts in 5 easy steps

LinkedIn has over 1 billion users from 200 countries. 16.2% use it daily. 49 million people look for jobs there every week. LinkedIn is where the money's at. But when you’re a busy founder, you don’t have time to mess around. Writing posts takes ages and you have other things to do.

ChatGPT can help. Here's how to make it write LinkedIn posts just like you in five simple steps. Copy, paste and edit the square brackets in ChatGPT, and keep the same chat window open so the context carries through. Be proud to publish every time.

Make AI work for your LinkedIn game: ChatGPT prompts for awesome posts

Make it sound like you.

Your posts should sound like you wrote them. Not a robot. ChatGPT needs to get your style. How you talk. What words you use. Head to LinkedIn, look at your analytics and find your top performing posts of all time, then give ChatGPT those as examples so it can copy your vibe.

"Your task will be to write my LinkedIn posts. First read these posts I wrote. Tell me how I write and create a style guide to use in the new posts. Make the style guide include what kind of words I use, my sentence length, my tone and style and structure. Include what makes my writing unique. [Include example posts]"

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Read what it says. If it's right, move on. If not, give it more posts or explain what it got wrong.

Pick your topics

Your goal is to reserve a space in someone’s head for the thing that you do. Especially on LinkedIn. If a connection thinks of someone else first, you’ve lost the game. To achieve this, stick to what you know, and do it consistently. Keep going until people see you as the expert, and then don’t stop. Pick three or four main things you'll post about, which become your pillars. Your followers will know what to expect from you and this matters for showing up online.

"Now, give me 10 ideas for LinkedIn posts about these topics: [list your content pillars, based on the topic you want to own and be known for]. Present the ideas using one sentence for each one and make them punchy."

Look at the ideas and choose the best ones. Take them forward using the next few prompts.

Get the post

Good instructions make good posts. Bad ones make rubbish. Get your instructions right and ChatGPT will pump out killer content. Spend time on this bit because it pays off.

"Let’s go forward with idea [select the idea you want to go forward with first]. Use my writing style that we just described. Start the post with a hook, which should be a short, sharp, punchy line that grabs attention with my target audience but should not be a question. Then add a rehook, a short line that comes after the hook, that sets up the post and signposts the rest of the post. The main part of the post should fill a knowledge gap in my target audience, so I should help them do something in distinct steps, adding value with each one. Write new sentences on new lines, with line breaks. The penultimate line should be a compelling statement that strongly states one of my audience’s strong beliefs back to them. The final line should invite engagement on my post, inviting people to comment. Make sure the answer to this question is something they would be proud to share. Before you write this post, ask me questions about my target audience. Then ask for a personal story to incorporate in the post."

Make it better

First drafts are never perfect. That's fine. Read what ChatGPT writes. Then make it better. This is where okay posts become great ones. The ones people remember and share.

"Change this post to make it more [specify what you’d like changing, for example chatty, professional, simple, punchy]. Do not use these words [include the words used in the post that you wouldn’t use in real life]. Also don’t [anything else you’ve spotted that you don’t like]. Now give me the post without the section titles."

Keep re-prompting until you love it. The more you tell ChatGPT, the better it gets at writing like you.

Double check

ChatGPT forgets things. Chances are, with this journey of prompting you’ve just undertaken, it’s gone away from your original style guide. So here’s where you double check. Get ChatGPT to mark its own homework by comparing the draft post with its original instructions.

"Now review this draft and refine it to better match my style. Shorten any sentences that are longer than [specify, for example ten words], and simplify any complex language, including [specify sentences that are too complex]. Replace any words that don’t sound like me with ones I would use. The part that I think doesn’t flow well is [specify that here if applicable], so rewrite it to sound more natural. Add any final touches to make the post engaging and authentic. Once refined, give me the final version ready to post."

Now ask it to repeat this process for the other ideas you liked. Give ChatGPT the rest of the numbers, one by one, until you have a month’s worth of content ready to go.

“Now let’s learn from this process and repeat it to create post idea [number]. Ask me questions before creating the post in the same style.”

Level up your LinkedIn with AI power: ChatGPT prompts to grow

Getting ChatGPT to write your LinkedIn posts saves time. But it's more than that. It helps you post quality stuff that people want to read. Stuff that grows your brand. Make ChatGPT analyze your style, select your topics, then write the perfect prompt. Make it better and double check.

Tonnes of LinkedIn content could be five prompts away. Try these today and watch your likes and comments go through the roof.

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