How to Choose a Cruise

Cruise lines, one of the fastest-growing segments of the travel industry, offer a wide variety of interesting destinations and activities for all ages.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Luggage Sets
• Sunscreen
• Cruise Ship Magazines
• Travel Services
• Camcorders
• Cameras
• Film
• Cameras

1. Deal with a cruise-only travel agent or an online agency that specializes in cruise vacations. They are more likely to have access to specials and cruise deals.

2. Decide where and when you want to cruise and the port you want to embark from. There are Caribbean and Asian sails nearly year-round. Alaskan cruises take place only in the summer, as do most cruises in Europe. Trips through the Panama Canal take place in spring and fall.

3. Decide who will be joining you on the cruise. Families have different needs and entertainment requirements than singles or couples.

4. Outline the activities that appeal to you: ports of call, shore excursions, onboard facilities and amenities.

5. Decide if you have a preference about ship size. Large ships have more entertainment choices, while small ships have a more personal approach to service.

6. Determine your budget. Cruise lines give discounts for early bookings. You can also affect your costs by altering cruise dates, the length of your cruise and the region you sail to.

7. Ask about the typical age group of those sailing on a particular line or ship. This can help you determine whether you'll be compatible with your fellow passengers.

8. Choose the level of formality you prefer. Some ships demand formal or business attire at certain dinners. Other ships cater to vacationers who want to wear only casual clothing.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware that port fees are often not included in advertised prices. They can add significantly to your cruise costs.
• Budget for tips to shipboard waiters, room stewards and service personnel. Ships often have suggested amounts, depending on the length of the cruise.
• Pack light. Getting on and off ships is not as easy as picking up your luggage at the airport.
• Bring along toiletries, film and sunscreen. They can be quite expensive onboard.

on 11/22/2005 For night owls, choose the late sitting for dinner and plan on going on afternoon excursions. Less stressful.

on 11/22/2005 Even though it's cheaper to book your own cruise airfare, if you need to travel a long distance or connect flights, book with the cruise! They will guarantee transport to the ship if your flight is delayed. It's a major stress saver!