9 Tips for First Time Cruisers

 

1. Decide where you want to go.  

• What ports do you want to visit?
• What temperature do you want?  Tropical?  Cold?  Moderate?

2. Pick out a cruise line.  Adults only, family or party atmosphere.

3. Select your ship based on your itinerary, dates, on board experience, etc.

4. Select your cabin that suits your needs, wants and expectations.  

• Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, Suite, Location.  Select the specific cabin you want while reserving your cruise.  Take into account nearby facilities such as dining room, elevators, traffic, etc.  Also think about the walking distance for all the parts of the ship you will be visiting.
• A balcony may be more expensive, but it can provide a quiet area for you to decompress any time of the day away from other passengers.

5. Budget your trip before you go.  Research the line you choose and keep in mind tips, excursions, specialty restaurants, drink packages, Wi-Fi, casino and money you may want to spend on shore at ports.  Prices to pre-buy packages such as excursions and drinks will likely be cheaper before you board your ship.  Know what is and is not included in your room package to avoid a surprise at the end of your cruise.

6. If flying or driving to your starting port, don't arrive the same day the cruise boards, arrive at least the day before and stay near the port.  This will eliminate any travel delays getting to the ship, which will not wait for you.

7. Know your cruise line's policy on COVID-19.  You may have to provide a vaccination history or travel insurance if you are unvaccinated.  If you are unvaccinated, you may find out that certain parts of the ships are off limits to you.

8. Don't forget a small first aid kit including a dental repair kit.  Band Aids, Aspirin, etc.

9. Don't be afraid to use a travel agent for your cruise.  The majority of travel agents don't charge you anything, they are paid commissions by the cruise line.  The better ones will know of deals or specials that may not be evident to the end consumer.  Still research your ship and cabin locations, be prepared when you talk to them, but let them do the heavy lifting.