You’ve heard how much fun cruises are, you’ve seen the commercials, and you finally want to see for yourself. You’re right, they can be amazing! But if you’ve never gone on one before, how do you know how to pick a cruise, and be sure you’re picking the right cruise for you?
There are so many cruise lines, and within those there are tons of ships and different itineraries. How do you even start planning for a cruise? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’ve laid out all the information you need to consider so you know exactly how to pick a cruise for your next vacation.
Once you’ve picked your cruise, read our expert advice and tips for first time cruisers so your first cruise can be absolutely perfect! And definitely don’t set sail without reading our list of 37 cruise travel essentials you’ll need for your trip!
Note: Be sure to check out the only Caribbean cruise packing list you’ll ever need, once you pick your cruise! It details all the different types of attire, accessories, and extras that you’ll want to bring with you.
How To Pick A Cruise Ship
Research The Cruise Lines
When choosing a cruise to book, your first task is to look into the various cruise lines. They all cater to a slightly different crowd, and have different feels. Which cruise line you choose will largely depend on what kind of vacation you’re looking for.
Families tend to love Disney cruises. These cruises give you an authentic Disney experience while at sea. Character meet and greets, Disney themed dining, and over the top shows and activities ensure a great family trip.
Those looking for a fun, upbeat party vibe might choose a Carnival cruise. Known as being “the fun ship”, Carnival is affordable and lively. Their ships are all geared towards fun, even having entire water parks on board. They offer some of the best deals on cruises.
Norwegian cruises are known for their relaxed atmosphere and great entertainment. They have Broadway style shows, water slides, and even things like go-cart race tracks, guaranteed to keep you having a great time. They have a more flexible cruise plan, so you can customize your vacation to be exactly what you want.
Royal Caribbean has such a variety of ships that anyone can find one that fits their ideal vacation. They have some smaller ships that are more popular among the older crowd, and absolutely gigantic ships that are like being on a resort at sea. Couples, families, and groups of friends can all find exactly what they’re looking for with a Royal Caribbean ship.
Celebrity cruises boast a more stylish design with trendy restaurants while still remaining relatively affordable. Celebrity cruises are less of a party ship, and aimed at a more sophisticated audience. These ships generally have fewer children on board than other cruise lines.
Research The Ships
Once you decide on your cruise line, your next job is to look into the different ships. Even within cruise lines, the different ships cater to different styles of trips. Some ships are smaller, some have more activities, some have a huge focus on entertainment, some are more classic cruising.
Picking a cruise ship involves several factors that you need to consider before making a decision. First, you should consider the size of the ship you want to travel on. Smaller ships provide a more intimate experience, while larger ships offer more amenities and activities. If you suffer from motion sickness, you may want to choose a large ship, as you’ll be less likely to feel the rocking of the ocean.
Next, you should take a look at the amenities offered by the cruise ship. Some ships have more dining options, entertainment, and recreational facilities than others. Choose a ship that offers the amenities and activities that are important to you.
You also need to think about the type of experience you want. Do you want a family-friendly cruise or an adults-only cruise? Do you want a relaxed atmosphere or a party atmosphere? Consider the type of experience you want and choose a cruise ship that offers that experience.
It’s always a good idea to read reviews on the specific ships. Other folks who have been on the different ships will be able to provide first-hand experiences that may be relevant to your own situation.
How To Pick A Cruise Cabin
Cabin Category – Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, or Suite?
Which cabin type you choose on your ship can make a big difference in your overall cruise enjoyment. If you are the type to only need a room to shower and sleep, then this won’t be a big decision at all. But if you like to spend any kind of time in your room, which one you pick will be important.
Are you the type to like it pitch black while you sleep? Perhaps you prefer to take your morning coffee out on a balcony overlooking the ocean? Maybe a balcony isn’t important but you absolutely NEED a window in your room. Your preference here will absolutely play a role in which cruise cabin you choose.
Larger families or those who just want more space may opt for a suite. These rooms are much larger than the average room, and may have multiple bedrooms. The extra space comes with a larger price tag.
Cabin Location – Forward, Aft, or Midship?
The location of the cabin can be a crucial factor in your overall cruise experience. You might want to be right in the thick of the activities, or you might want to be tucked away in a quiet area. Being near the elevators, the engine room, or the nightclubs might impact your quality of sleep, as the noise from those may keep you awake.
How to pick a cruise cabin if you get motion sickness: If you are prone to getting seasick, choose a cabin located in the middle of the ship, and on a lower deck. You’ll experience far less motion in this area than on a higher deck or towards either end of the ship.
Cabin Prices
Finally, your own personal budget will come into play when picking a cruise cabin. Interior cabins are the cheapest option, while oceanview and balcony rooms are more expensive. Suites can be significantly more expensive than the other options.
Cruises frequently have deals that can significantly lower the costs of certain cabins. You may be able to occasionally find balcony rooms that are cheaper than oceanview! Check all the current deals that are going on, to be sure you are getting the best price possible for your cabin of choice.
How To Pick A Cruise Itinerary
A big question people have is how to pick a cruise itinerary, since there are so many to choose from. When picking a cruise, one of the most important aspects is the ports. There is a huge variety of destinations on cruise ships, and each itinerary is a little different. So, figure out which destinations you are most interested in visiting.
Research the different ports and see what attractions and activities are available in each location. Look for places that offer a variety of things to see and do that match your interests and preferences.
Start by looking at the itinerary of the specific cruise ships you are considering. Shorter cruises may visit only one or two ports, while longer cruises may stop at 4 or more different locations. If there’s a specific location you really want to stop at, narrow your search by the itineraries that stop there.
Some ports have cultural or historical significance and can provide you with an enriching experience and a deeper understanding of the local culture and history. Some ports have adventurous excursions like zip lining, horseback riding, or various water sports. If you’re interested in shopping and dining, look for ports with a wide variety of restaurants and shops.
Caribbean Cruises
The Caribbean is a very popular location for cruises. Generally, ships leave from ports in Miami, New Orleans, Galveston, Puerto Rico, and other nearby locations. There are many, many different island nations that may be visited on a Caribbean cruise, each offering a unique experience.
The weather is a strong driving factor for picking a Caribbean cruise, as the tropical climate makes for a very pleasant experience. Some folks prefer to cruise during peak season (winter), and others prefer to cruise in the summer when prices are lower and crowds are smaller.
Alaska
Alaska is known for its absolutely breathtaking beauty. Its stunning landscape features glaciers, mountains, and all kinds of wildlife. Cruise ships that go to Alaska are smaller, so as to navigate around the icy waters.
Some folks opt to take an Alaskan cruise so they can see such animals as bears, whales, seals, and eagles in their natural habitats. Many tours take you to native villages, where you can learn all about the indigenous peoples. There are excursions such as dog sledding, fishing, or kayaking. In winter months you have the ability to see the Northern Lights, which is a very popular bucket list item.
Hawaii
Cruises to Hawaii are sure to leave you in awe. The scenery in Hawaii is literal paradise, with lush rainforests, turquoise water, beaches, and volcanoes. There are tons of excursions to pick from, varying from snorkeling, surfing, or even taking a helicopter tour over the volcanoes.
Hawaii also has a rich culture, and a Hawaii cruise is a great way to experience it. You can partake in hula lessons, lei making classes, and even visit traditional Hawaiian villages.
Mexico
There are many different ports of call in Mexico, depending on which side of the country you’re visiting. Some of the most popular ports are Cozumel, with tons of awesome excursions, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Ensenada.
Mexico has a vibrant culture and history, with excursions ranging from adventurous zip lining and ATV tours, to historical tours of ancient ruins, to relaxing on the beautiful beaches, and everything in between. The dining and shopping opportunities are endless, and everyone is sure to find something they absolutely love about Mexico.
Canada and New England
Autumn is an extremely popular time to pick a cruise to Canada and New England. The foliage in fall is breathtakingly beautiful, as the trees turn unbelievable shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold.
The history is rich in New England and Canada, with many ports featuring historical sites such as the Freedom Trail in Boston, or the Citadel in Halifax. You can visit innumerable lighthouses, experience authentic local flavors, or see amazing wildlife if you pick a cruise to these locations.
Budget And Cost Factors
One of the biggest factors that may come into play for you when picking a cruise is going to be your budget. There is a HUGE variety of price swings on cruises depending on many factors, like the length of the cruise, which ports you stop at, etc.
Transportation And Lodging
Remember when you are picking your cruise that you also need to factor in transportation costs. If the cruise is leaving from a port not in your hometown (most likely), you will need airfare. You will need transportation from the airport to the port, and the other way around.
You also will likely need a hotel room nearby the port for the night before your cruise. Be sure to factor this cost into your budget when planning your first cruise.
Pro Tip: We strongly advise against flying into your cruise destination the same day as your cruise. If you miss your flight, the flight gets delayed or cancelled, or anything else happens that prevents you from getting to the ship on time, you will be out of luck. They will not wait for you. Give yourself at least one full day as a buffer!
Cruise Package Add-Ons
You have to remember to add in the extra costs of cruises as well. Alcohol and soft drinks, specialty dining, and spa treatments all are additional costs that are not included in your standard room price. Some cruises allow you to add these on as packages, and others you pay as you go.
Many cruises give a discounted rate on some of these package options when you purchase them in advance. You may be able to get 20%-50% or more off the standard price of some of these options.
Excursions
When you stop at the ports there will be tons of excursions and activities to take part in, all for an additional cost. These adventures range from swimming with dolphins, to exploring ancient ruins, to ATV tours, to peaceful beach breaks, and absolutely everything in between.
You can book your excursions right on the ship, or even before you get on your ship. Booking in advance may give you a discounted price from the cruise’s normal price, and it ensures the activity you want to experience doesn’t get sold out.
However, in certain places it may be a better option to simply book your excursions on your own. When we go to St. Lucia, for example, we book our own excursions. They tend to be cheaper in price than what the ship offers, and there’s a wider variety of St. Lucia excursion options to choose from. Just be sure to check that you’ll be picked up and dropped off at the port, and be sure to note the time you need to return.
Gratuities
Most cruise lines charge a mandatory fee they call a “gratuity”. Which, by definition, isn’t actually a tip if it’s mandatory, but I digress. I like to just think of it as a service charge. This charge is generally in the area of $10-$15 per person per day, including children, on top of your cruise fare.
This charge goes to the people who keep your vacation running smoothly, like your stateroom attendant, dining room waiters, and other behind-the-scenes workers. Some cruise lines allow you to pay this cost upfront, and some just add the charge to your onboard account, payable at the end of your cruise.
Many folks also tip the staff in cash for a job well done. Generally speaking, when you purchase beverages the tip is already included in that price, but some people opt to add a cash tip on top of that.
Whether you choose to pay your gratuities up front or not, be sure to factor in this charge when budgeting for your cruise.
Read The Fine Print Before You Pick A Cruise
Now we come to the part almost nobody enjoys – reading the fine print. Just like with any other contract, you need to read all the fine print so you know exactly what to expect. There will be a lot of information in the fine print of your cruise contract, and you need to be sure to read it carefully. There are a few key parts that you’ll need to be sure to understand when you pick a cruise.
Cancellation Policy
It is extremely important that you understand the cruise line’s cancellation policy before you book. This section of your contract will detail the exact terms and conditions under which you could cancel your cruise and still receive a refund.
You may have cancellation fees, penalties, or might not be able to get a refund at all. You may be able to get a full refund up until a certain date. Some cruise lines give refunds, some just give future cruise credits. Be sure you completely understand all of these policies!
Payment Information
Cruise line contracts will outline the payment schedule you are expected to adhere to. This may cover deposits, which could be non-refundable, and the date that your final balance is due.
If you fail to make your final payment on time, it is likely that your cruise will be cancelled. It is also likely that you will not get back your deposit. Be sure to understand exactly what is expected from you as far as payment information goes.
Itinerary Changes
This section of the fine print is where the cruise line tells you that your chosen itinerary is subject to change. There is a wide variety of reasons this might happen, including weather related issues, political reasons, mechanical issues, or others. They may have to skip ports, change ports, or cancel the cruise altogether.
It is important to be aware of the cruise line’s policy on itinerary changes. Some cruises may offer you compensation for such changes, and some may not offer anything whatsoever.
Prohibited Items
All cruises prohibit certain items, for obvious safety reasons. You may not bring any sort of drugs, weapons, fire hazards, or any other hazardous materials on board. But did you know there are other, less obvious things you cannot pack on a cruise? For example, you can’t bring extension cords, or handheld steamers. No rollerblades, kites, or drones, among other things.
Each cruise line will provide their own extensive list of items you may not bring aboard. Be sure to read this section of your contract very carefully to ensure you don’t accidentally pack something prohibited.
