What cruise is the best completely depends on what you are looking for. There is a cruise line out there for everything from tropical to arctic, kid-friendly to adults-only, partying 24/7 to relaxing all day, luxury to budget-conscious.
What cruise is the best for you depends on what type of traveler you are.
One of the things that first-time cruisers don’t realize is that cruise lines plan itineraries years in advance, and they often allow people to book two or more years ahead — so no matter the circumstances, there is ample opportunity to plan the perfect cruise.
Here are five essential questions you need to answer before booking your cruise so you don’t wind up making a rookie mistake. (I’ll show you how to avoid these mistakes, as well!):
5 Questions to Ask Before Cruising
1. Which cruise line is the best fit for my/our needs? Cruise lines differ greatly. Some offer amenities that are exactly what you’re looking for; others might not.
It’s okay to take your time comparing cruise lines and seeing which ones will offer the most of what you want at a great value. Don’t be afraid to shop around!
2. Have I read ALL the fine print? I know, I know. It’s not the most fun part about planning a trip of any kind. But cruises can be a big investment of both time and money. It’s really important to understand what you are signing up for.
- Are taxes, port fees, and gratuities included?
- What is the payment schedule like?
- Is the deposit non-refundable?
- How early do you need to arrive? If you are traveling in the winter do you need a pre-cruise hotel stay?
- What is the refund or rescheduling policy?
- Which amenities are included and which cost extra?
- Do I need a drink package?
Make sure you’ve got it dialed so there are no surprises and your trip can go smoothly.
3. How picky do I want to be about the cabin? Again, consider your needs. And beyond that — think about what would be the most fun! If you’re uneasy in enclosed spaces, an inside cabin might not be a good choice. If you tend to get motion sickness, an inside cabin in the middle of the ship would be better. Also consider the amount of time spent in your cabin. Is it simply a place to sleep, or do you need a comfortable getaway for some relaxing alone time?
You don’t have to spring for a luxury suite unless you want to, but cabin choice is one area where a little extra can make a huge difference in the overall enjoyment and restfulness of your trip.
4. Have I solidified our meal plans and shore excursions? This is a big one. Most cruise lines offer a wide variety of dining options — fixed time in a dining area, non-fixed seating, buffets, casual and upscale options. But the rules and expectations are different for each. Some require reservations; some don’t; some have dress codes; some don’t. Make sure you nail this down early. Especially if you’re cruising with kids, the last thing you want is to be scrambling for a meal at the last minute.
5. Do I have a plan for regular, thorough hand washing? This one might seem strange, but it can make a HUGE difference. Cruise ships cater to thousands of people, all sharing the same space. It’s not common, but illnesses can spread quickly. Especially with little kids, make sure they are washing their hands thoroughly, not just before meals or after using the restroom, but at regular intervals throughout the day. If you’re in a situation where you don’t have easy access to warm soapy water, carry hand sanitizer with you.
Here’s the best news of all:
With a travel agent, you don’t have to answer these questions alone! I can help you pick the most suitable cruise line and go through ALL the details before you sign on the dotted line. I can give you all the inside info so you can choose the best cabin, help you figure out when and where you want to eat, and what you want to see and do. Plus, there is always some sort of deal or discount happening, and with a free date change option, you can have flexible planning and little commitment.
If you’re ready to embark on your first or next cruise adventure, just click the link below and let’s get started!
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