7 Things You Should Know For Choosing The Cruise

February 27th, 2008 Olga Pizza Posted in Cruise Lines |

“They were on the wrong cruise line.” As a rule, Cruise Holidays agents say such things when we are not satisfied with our cruising.

160 ships in the fleets of the 24 major cruise lines and more than 7,500 itineraries… Well, there are really a lot of things to choose from. And sometimes it is not so easy to do. What cabin is best for you? What ship will be most appropriate for your family? Should you care about all these things at all? I offer you 7 steps which help you to plan your trip and really enjoy such an adventure.

1. Where to go. It should be your first thing to consider, the ship is second. Asia, the Indian Ocean, South America, Alaska or Caribbean. This year South America is considered to be the most popular place, but still let’s not forget about Dubai with its amazing views. Check the routes which the company offers you. Thus, Alaskan cruises follow two routes: Passage itineraries (a journey from Seattle or Vancouver to southern Alaskan ports like Skagway) and Gulf of Alaska itineraries (one-way trips from Vancouver to Seward). Every cruises offer you several routes, so, choose the best.

2. When to go. Of course, everything depends on your character and state of health, but still choose shoulder seasons. In this case, you have the opportunity to enjoy the mild wind of the sea than bake under the August sun. By the way, in the Mediterranean it is not so pleasant. The other thing is whether you are traveling with family or not. May and September, when children are in school, allows you to enjoy the cruise with less visitors… and better deals

3. What line is best. So, here is the main question. What are the things you should pay attention to while choosing it? What is the difference? There are lines which have dress codes and assigned seating times for meals. If you just want to relax from the conventionalities, Norwegian Cruise Line is considered to be more casual than other cruise lines. Are you planning to travel with family? Holland America or Princess Cruises are rather kid-friendly. And of course, let’s not forget about high quality which is represented by lines like Regent and Crystal. But still they are also more expensive.

4. Prices. I’m sure you suppose that all you should do is to multiply the daily rate for a stateroom taking into consideration the number of nights. But there are also such factors as airfare to and from the originating port, shore excursions and the costs of incidentals (spa salons, alcohol, etc.), unless the ship is all-inclusive. Most cruise lines offer discounts for booking far in advance. By the way, you also are able to choose the most appropriate cabin. So, start planning your cruise beforehand.

5. On board. Size really matters in this case. Smaller ships can call smaller ports and offer more personalized experience. It is the best choice for nature cruises to the Sea of Corte’s, the Gala’pagos or Antarctica. Cruise West or SeaDream Yachts offer you such opportunities, but entertainment and dining options are limited.

6. Cabin. Inside, outside, balcony… Your itinerary is the first thing you should consider, before choosing a cabin. There is no need in a balcony stateroom if your cruise across the Atlantic, just because there will be only open ocean for days. But Alaskan and Mediterranean cruises provide you with excellent views. In this case, it is necessary to choose the right side of the ship. In Alaska book a cabin on the right (starboard) side of the ship on a northbound cruise and on the left (port) side of the ship on southbound itineraries. Thus, you’ll admire the coastline.

7. Activities. If possible book all the activities in advance. As a rule, popular shore excursions as well as spas procedures on ships often sell out. Ask about discounts if you are booking treatments on days in port.

If you aren’t matched to the line, you probably won’t cruise again. So, plan everything so that there will be no regrets. You also can turn to a travel agent. Moreover, you have already known what things to consider