How To Choose The Perfect Cruise

So you’ve decided to go on a cruise, but you feel a bit overwhelmed with the choices of how, where and what. If you a first-time cruiser and are not quite sure which itinerary works best for you, then here are a few tips to help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect trip.

Ship Size

There are multiple cruise lines out there and choosing the best one depends on what exactly you want in a vacation. Would you like to cruise aboard one of the larger vessels that carry a lot of people or do you prefer something smaller? Larger cruise ships oftentimes provide better fares, but some people don’t like the idea of sailing on such a large vessel. Small ships are more intimate, allowing you to learn about new people on a closer level. Small ships can also get into many ports of call that large ships just can’t. However, this intimacy usually comes with a higher cost as well.

Embarkation Point

Not everyone is fond of flying and the cost of adding flights on top of your cruise might make you reconsider this as a vacation option. Do some research and look into a port nearby; you’d be surprised how many there are. Make sure to check if you can get a transportation service to drop you off and pick you up or how much the parking costs would be. Or look into a port that offers affordable flights from your hometown.

Length

How much time do you want to vacation? Or better yet, how much time can you take off? You can look into 7-day cruises or maybe you just want to get away for a long weekend. If that`s the case then the 3 or 4-day cruises are right up your alley. If you’re new to cruising and are not convinced it is for you, start out with a short cruise and see how it goes.

Destinations

If you have your heart set on cruising in Europe, you will be looking at cruises between May and November due to the weather. The same goes for cruises to Alaska, which are popular in the summer months and understandably nonexistent in the winter. If destination isn’t as important to you, then places like the Caribbean and Mexico feature cruises that run all year.

Activities

Something else to keep in mind when choosing an itinerary is what kind of activities would you like to do? There is plenty to do aboard a cruise ship and if you prefer relaxing by the pool or reading a book, then it doesn`t really matter which destinations you have on your itinerary. But if you like history, culture and sightseeing or adventure, then make sure the ports of call meet up to your expectations.

Choosing a cruise itinerary might seem like a big task, but it’s part of the fun of your vacation! You get to decide where you want to go and what you want to do. And if you go over these few pointers you will be able to narrow down your choice and be ready for a great experience in no time.

What’s your tip when looking into choosing a cruise itinerary?

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.