A cruise vacation could be just what you need to relax, de-stress, and enjoy a change of scenery. All of the major cruise lines have a fleet of ships that cater to travelers with different tastes. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, want to treat your sweetheart to a romantic retreat, or are single and looking for a fun adventure this season, you can find a cruise ship that offers plenty of on-board activities and amenities to meet your needs – and your budget.
Planning that first cruise may seem like a daunting task but there are some things you can do to make the most of your vacation. Here are six tips for planning your first cruise vacation:
#1: Prepare a budget. The cost of your cruise vacation will depend on the cruise line you choose, the destination, the number of nights you plan on cruising, and any extra amenities or services you’re interested in booking. Remember to include the cost of airfare to the port when putting together your budget. Set a maximum price that you’re willing to pay for the entire trip so you can filter down available options based on price.
#2: Pick your top three destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of the Bahamas, Hawaii, or an Alaskan cruise adventure, write down your top three destinations so you can start narrowing down your search. Remember that not all cruise lines offer routes to some of the most coveted destinations year-round. You’ll need to figure out which destinations are available during your vacation time and plan around that.
#3: Decide how long you want to cruise. Most cruise vacations run from three nights to 14 days – sometimes longer. Are you just interested in a long weekend getaway or are you looking for a week-long trip? The length of your cruise will likely depend on your available vacation time, your budget, and your top cruise destinations.
#4: Consider options for on-board activities. If you want to make the most of your cruise vacation, you’ll want to participate in some on-board activities and events. Some cruise lines host live performances and shows throughout the day, as well as on-board family activities, dining events, and recreational activities. Decide whether you want to spend some time at a spa, enjoy buffet-style meals all day, or have access to on-board pools or water parks.
#5: Review options for shore activities. Many cruise packages include activities on shore, such as day trips, customized cultural tours of the area, or just a few hours shopping and dining at destination port. Take a look at sample itineraries for the different destinations you’re interested in so you get an idea of any tours, excursions, and other activities you can look forward to at some point during the cruise.
#6: Look at cabin options. Cabin selection can be tricky when you’ve never been on a cruise before. Take some time to look at a map of different cruise ships and a close look at pictures of different cabins. Consider the amenities you really want and need – much like selecting a hotel room. Read reviews from past cruise ship passengers to find out which are the preferred or recommended cabins on a particular ship.
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