3 Tips to Pick Your First Cruise
There is an unmistakable charm about traveling by ship which harks back to the glamor and glitz of the grand ocean liners of the 19th century. Nothing spells romantic better than panoramic sunsets and starry nights aboard a vessel that gently carries you through the seas.
If you’re feeling the call of the ocean and the desire to sail the high seas, then booking a cruise for your next vacation may be the answer you’re looking for. However, knowing where to begin your search can be daunting if you are a first-time cruiser. Before you set sail on your maiden voyage, take note of the following tips to help make this trip a holiday of a lifetime.
Know Your Itinerary
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Whether it’s a two-week trip around the Mediterranean or a Boston to Bermuda cruise, knowing your itinerary in advance will let you know the various ports of call and the pace you can expect on your vacation. If you are looking to pack in as many tours and on-shore excursions as you can then a cruise that has many ports for you to see and explore is ideal.
On the other hand, if you prefer a gentler way of life on your next vacation then an itinerary with fewer ports and the occasional island or beach day will be more suitable. To unwind even further, book a few days in a hotel before or after your cruise with Allcruisehotels to make your journey less stressful or rushed. It’s also worth checking the onboard facilities based on your interests, such as spa services, fitness centers, and shops.
Read the Fine Print
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As much as the fine print hurts, reading them can help better plan your onboard finances and not fall victim to ignorance. Many cruises advertise an all-inclusive offering that will include accommodation, meals, onboard facilities, and entertainment for one upfront fee. While it may seem like a good deal, it can be a facade. Cruise liners often exclude certain items such as alcohol, shore-based tours and excursions, and transfers from the package price. And those come with an additional price tag that may just burn a hole in your pocket.
To avoid any such nasty surprises, do your research beforehand. If you are planning to drink alcohol onboard and it is not included in the cruise price, there may be an option to purchase a drinks package ahead of time or another special offer that is more suitable. If you are booking through a travel agent, it’s always worth asking if they can throw in a free shore excursion or drinks package to seal the deal.
Pick the Right Time
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From the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda to the Antarctic Peninsula and Alaska Inside Passage cruises, almost every part of the globe can now be circumnavigated by sea. Depending on where you wish to go, it’s advisable to book your cruise for the most favorable time of the year.
Here’s what we recommend – save the summer months of June to September for destinations such as Alaska and Europe. From the winter season of December to April, go cruising around the Caribbean. If you’re looking for some winter sun, then places like South America and Australia will be the warmest.
Make Your First Cruise The Best Cruise!
Choosing a cruise need not be a dilemma for you. These three simple tips can help you decide pretty much that one cruise amidst the many cruise lines. Once you’ve chosen, read on more to find out about The Ultimate Cruise Packing List to help you fully get ready!
