How to Book a Cruise

The first step to sailing off into the sunset is to book your cruise. It's easiest to let a travel agent do all the work, but you might be able to save some money by booking it yourself online.

Things You'll Need

• Cameras
• Travelers' Checks
• Camcorders
• Swimsuits
• Passport Services
• Travel Services
• Airline Tickets
• Sandals
• Sporty Hats
• Cruise Tickets
• Sunscreen

Instructions

1. Gather cruise brochures from a travel agency, or check out cruise offers, ships and deck plans online. These will give you a good idea of destinations, prices, types of accommodations, amenities and recreational options.

2. Figure out where you would like to go. Talk to a travel agent who is an expert on cruises, or simply ask friends who have cruised for recommendations. (Some popular destinations are the Caribbean, Mexico and Alaska.)

3. Decide how long you want the cruise to be. The most popular cruises last from 3 to 14 days, but lengthier cruises are available.

4. Determine how much you want to spend. Cruises come in the basic categories of budget, moderate, deluxe and ultra-deluxe. It is suggested that you compare these categories to hotels and choose which would make you most comfortable and be within your budget.

5. Contact a local travel agent by phone (get a recommendation from a friend or look in the yellow pages under "Cruises"). Tell the agent your budget and the type of cruise you would like to take. Refer to the brochures, explaining what looks most appealing and affordable to you.

6. Choose your point of departure, with the agent's assistance. Many cruises require that you book your own transportation to departure points, so you will need to figure this transportation as an additional cost.

7. Decide on the number of port calls - stops into port - you would prefer. This information should be available in the brochure or from the travel agent. If you plan to do organized activities at these ports, you may be charged extra.

8. Select the type of stateroom you want. Like hotel rooms, they vary in size and available services. Check the deck plan and brochure for photos of various staterooms and maps of where the staterooms are situated.

9. Ask about any cancellation fees or other restrictions.

10. Ask the travel agent to book your cruise, or book your cruise online if you decide not to use a travel agent. You can get great discount fares and will have access to ship reviews and other information that will help in making all the important decisions.

Tips & Warnings

• It's best to start researching early so you can actually book the cruise two to four months before your departure. Don't overlook last-minute values, however, which can save you a lot of money.

• You may be asked to leave a deposit when booking your cruise, or to pay the full rate up front.

• As of January, 2007, passports are required for US citizens traveling between the US and Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean by air. In January, 2008, the requirement will extend to include those traveling by land or sea.

• Book only with a reputable agent or cruise line. Scams happen.