With 24 major cruise lines offering over 160 ships and around 7,500 destinations, how do you decide which one is best for you and your family? There are a few simple guidelines that will assist you in picking the cruise vacation that is perfect for you.
Where Do You Want to Go?
Obviously, you want to choose a destination before you do anything else. Alaskan and Caribbean cruises have been favorites traditionally, but cruise lines have been adding exotic locales to their assortment in recent years, including Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe. Your personality and preferences will influence your destination choice and instantly rule out some ports of call. For example, if you want less sailing and more shopping excursions and opportunities to go to the beach, then an Eastern Caribbean itinerary might appeal more to you. On the other hand, Western Caribbean cruises offer the opportunity to explore ancient Mayan ruins, hike in rain forests, and go snorkeling or scuba diving in some majestic spots. Recognize these differences; make sure you know what type of activities potential destinations will have to offer.
When Should You Go?
Off-peak seasons can offer bargains, and could be even more desirable than high season. After all, a cool autumn afternoon can be more relaxing than melting in the sun during a Mediterranean summer. Alaska is a popular cruise destination for families. So plan your Alaskan cruise in May or September, when most children are in school. You"ll get better deals and have fewer fellow passengers. Fewer vacationers can also mean more opportunities to see native wildlife up close.
Selecting a Cruise Line
Choose the cruise line that suits your style and interests. This is terribly important for the first cruise; it can make or break your experience. A family or couple that picks a cruise that doesn"t meet their needs may never cruise again. Keep in mind the nuances each cruise line has. Norwegian Cruise Line is more dress down than other lines and does not have other iron-clad rules such has exact dining times. Holland America"s itineraries and options are geared toward older couples and families. Finally, lines like Crystal and Regent are ritzier and, consequently, pricier.
Book As Early As You Can
Several top flight cruise lines offer discounts for travelers who book their trips ahead of time. Cost is directly relative to supply and demand in the cruise industry. As bookings come in for the most popular destinations, cruise fares go up accordingly. This happens most frequently with bookings to Alaska, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean. It is never too early to start planning your cruise!
Arrive Early and Stay on Late
Here is a crucial piece of information "" if you do not book your flight directly through the cruise line, your ship will not wait if your plane is delayed. In this day and age, flight delays have become increasingly frequent, therefore it is recommended to get to the port where your trip starts at least a day before you are supposed to leave. Also, cruise extensions are one option that has been very popular of late. You can cap off some cruises with safaris or ski trips organized by the line. These excursions obviously feature fewer hassles expenses than on a tour that is divided by separate events and costs as well.
Consider the Size of the Ship
Ship size can sometimes dictate the cruise itinerary. Smaller ships can dock at smaller ports and give cruise-goers a more personal experience. Small ships are typically used for nature-oriented outings to Alaska, Antarctica and the Western Caribbean.
Things to Do Prior to Boarding
Try to sign up for as many activities as possible before getting on board. Don"t waste time waiting in long lines once you are already beginning the cruise. Additionally, popular shore excursions sell out quickly. Plan your on board activities early as well; spa treatment space is at a premium on cruises, for example. However, you may get discounts if you book appointments on days in port.
Talk to an Expert
When it comes to cruises, getting some professional advice is still indispensable. Travel agents can answer nearly any question you have regarding a specific cruise line or port of call; don"t hesitate to contact one prior to finalizing your cruise destination.
Hopefully, these tips assist you in choosing the perfect cruise destination for you and your family. As you can see, there are a multitude of factors that one must take into consideration before ultimately settling on a cruise. Whether it"s Belize or Bermuda, Jamaica or Alaska, make sure you know all the facts before you climb aboard!
Where Do You Want to Go?
Obviously, you want to choose a destination before you do anything else. Alaskan and Caribbean cruises have been favorites traditionally, but cruise lines have been adding exotic locales to their assortment in recent years, including Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe. Your personality and preferences will influence your destination choice and instantly rule out some ports of call. For example, if you want less sailing and more shopping excursions and opportunities to go to the beach, then an Eastern Caribbean itinerary might appeal more to you. On the other hand, Western Caribbean cruises offer the opportunity to explore ancient Mayan ruins, hike in rain forests, and go snorkeling or scuba diving in some majestic spots. Recognize these differences; make sure you know what type of activities potential destinations will have to offer.
When Should You Go?
Off-peak seasons can offer bargains, and could be even more desirable than high season. After all, a cool autumn afternoon can be more relaxing than melting in the sun during a Mediterranean summer. Alaska is a popular cruise destination for families. So plan your Alaskan cruise in May or September, when most children are in school. You"ll get better deals and have fewer fellow passengers. Fewer vacationers can also mean more opportunities to see native wildlife up close.
Selecting a Cruise Line
Choose the cruise line that suits your style and interests. This is terribly important for the first cruise; it can make or break your experience. A family or couple that picks a cruise that doesn"t meet their needs may never cruise again. Keep in mind the nuances each cruise line has. Norwegian Cruise Line is more dress down than other lines and does not have other iron-clad rules such has exact dining times. Holland America"s itineraries and options are geared toward older couples and families. Finally, lines like Crystal and Regent are ritzier and, consequently, pricier.
Book As Early As You Can
Several top flight cruise lines offer discounts for travelers who book their trips ahead of time. Cost is directly relative to supply and demand in the cruise industry. As bookings come in for the most popular destinations, cruise fares go up accordingly. This happens most frequently with bookings to Alaska, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean. It is never too early to start planning your cruise!
Arrive Early and Stay on Late
Here is a crucial piece of information "" if you do not book your flight directly through the cruise line, your ship will not wait if your plane is delayed. In this day and age, flight delays have become increasingly frequent, therefore it is recommended to get to the port where your trip starts at least a day before you are supposed to leave. Also, cruise extensions are one option that has been very popular of late. You can cap off some cruises with safaris or ski trips organized by the line. These excursions obviously feature fewer hassles expenses than on a tour that is divided by separate events and costs as well.
Consider the Size of the Ship
Ship size can sometimes dictate the cruise itinerary. Smaller ships can dock at smaller ports and give cruise-goers a more personal experience. Small ships are typically used for nature-oriented outings to Alaska, Antarctica and the Western Caribbean.
Things to Do Prior to Boarding
Try to sign up for as many activities as possible before getting on board. Don"t waste time waiting in long lines once you are already beginning the cruise. Additionally, popular shore excursions sell out quickly. Plan your on board activities early as well; spa treatment space is at a premium on cruises, for example. However, you may get discounts if you book appointments on days in port.
Talk to an Expert
When it comes to cruises, getting some professional advice is still indispensable. Travel agents can answer nearly any question you have regarding a specific cruise line or port of call; don"t hesitate to contact one prior to finalizing your cruise destination.
Hopefully, these tips assist you in choosing the perfect cruise destination for you and your family. As you can see, there are a multitude of factors that one must take into consideration before ultimately settling on a cruise. Whether it"s Belize or Bermuda, Jamaica or Alaska, make sure you know all the facts before you climb aboard!
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