How to Compare Cruise Lines
Some cruise lines specialize in getting singles together; others cater to families. Still others offer luxury accommodations from magnificent rooms to on-the-spot service. So, decide whether you want to pay extra for perks or save money above all. Then you'll still need to compare ship size, inclusions, itineraries and more.
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Instructions
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Decide if you want to cruise contemporary, premium, luxury or specialty--each has different itineraries and services.
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Access Web sites that allow you to search by criteria, such as where you want to go and for how long.
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Call a cruise specialist to determine the exact itinerary for you.
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Consider what's inclusive and what isn't--each and every soda can cost you for non-inclusive packages that don't offer certain amenities.
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Go online to see the actual ships, inside and out, to compare cabins and other features.
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Read reviews online to see what others say about the cruise ships they've tried.
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Tips & Warnings
When comparing cruise lines, consider some of your choices: large or small ship, plenty of activities for kids or a child-free cruise, luxury liner or budget plan and lots of adventure or mostly relaxation.
List things in order of importance like a large cabin, free babysitting services, lots of activities ashore or the ability to meet lots of singles. Most cruise lines offer similar things, but some simply have nicer accommodations, lots of free perks or packages geared for families.
Prices for the average cruise should include accommodations, meals, coffee, tea, milk, juice, most onboard activities (other than spas or casinos), government taxes and fees, port charges and entertainment.
Some of the most popular cruise lines in the world include Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Regent.
Most cruise prices do not include spa or salon services, sodas, alcoholic beverages or bottled water.
Many cruises offer kids programs but charge you for babysitting services--if they offer the services at all.
Some cruise lines say they have a lineup of kids' activities but they withdraw that if a minimum number of kids is not booked for that cruise.
