Cruising is more popular than ever. Here's your expert guide, from scoring a good deal to booking better shore excursions
Consider the ports.
'Choosing the right destination is crucial. When we cruised with another family, we chose a sailing out of San Juan, Puerto Rico, because of the fantastic itinerary: British and U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Lucia, Barbados and Antigua. The stops offered a diversity of landscapes and activities, with the right amount of beach time and adventure for four teenagers between two families. For us, the ship's amenities were less important than the stops, but they could be a deciding factor for families with young children looking to engage littles on-board with kid's camps, a water park and nightly entertainment.' —
Lisa Kadane
, travel writer
Choose a cruise line that suits your style.
'If you're a fan of luxury hotels, look at lines such as
Explora Journeys
, and ships launched by
Ritz-Carlton
and
Four Seasons
. Accor, the group that operates Fairmont properties, is also putting a new ship, the
Orient Express Corinthian
, in the water next year. If you're a fan of theme parks or need a variety of things to do (multi-gen and family travel comes to mind), look at the ship-within-a-ship concepts of
MSC's Yacht Club
and
the Haven
by Norwegian Cruise Line. Both are like floating boutique hotels, with private areas, concierge and butler services, and dedicated dining. You still have the full-on vibe of a ship with thousands of people on vacation, but you can retreat to the peace of your exclusive getaway.' — Vivian Vassos, travel writer and editor-in-chief of
Bold Traveller magazine
Continue checking prices.
'Once you've booked your cruise, keep an eye out for sales and promotions, especially before your final payment is due. Many cruise lines, such as
Celebrity
,
Royal Caribbean
and
Princess
, have best-price guarantees that could result in cash back, cabin upgrades or on-board credits if the advertised cost of your cruise drops at a later date. Even if you see a deal after you've made your final payment, call the cruise line and see if they're willing to make an adjustment. It doesn't cost anything to ask.' —
Lori Rackl
, travel writer
Go when the deals are good.
'If you're investment shy but still want to give cruising a try: 'Wave season,' the industry term for off-peak travel, offers the best deals. And with temperatures staying mild well into November in Europe, there are deals to be had, and fewer crowds to deal with. April, May and June offer great deals for the Caribbean.' — Vivian Vassos
Do the math on add-ons.
'One thing I think first-time cruisers need to take into account are extras like drinks and excursions, which are not included on most larger-capacity ocean cruises and can really break the budget for a family. Though river cruises are generally pricier per person, they typically include excursions, plus wine and beer at lunch and dinner.' — Lisa Kadane
Plan to arrive early.
'If you're a first-time cruiser, you may also be a first-time visitor to the embarkation and disembarkation cities. Many cruise lines (especially river cruises) offer a day or two early in port, and extended port visits at the end of a cruise. Take advantage of those offers, and regardless, always try to arrive in your embarkation city a day early. It's worth the time and the investment, and with all the flight delays these days, you'll be happy to get on-board without having to rush from the airport.' — Vivian Vassos
Book your flights wisely.
'If you're thinking of an expedition cruise, where departures could be dependent on the weather, book your flights with the cruise line. If you're stuck, for example, in Antarctica with very limited flight choices, the cruise line will be responsible for getting you in or out and making sure you have a place to stay while you wait. Many cruise lines are offering to book flights as part of the package, and some even offer deep discounts or free flights.' — Vivian Vassos
Don't be afraid of DIY shore excursions.
'Cruise lines make a lot of money from shore excursions, which often involve a big flock of passengers following a guide with a flag. It's often more intimate and less expensive to book your own tours and experiences. Cruise lines will try to scare you away from making independent arrangements, warning that the ship will leave without you if you're not back on time. That's why some companies, such as
ToursByLocals
, guarantee you won't miss the boat. Their 'No One Left Behind' promise says in the unlikely event that you're not back by sail away, they'll provide overnight accommodation and transportation to the next port of call. (The website notes they've sold more than 150,000 shore excursions and only had to activate this policy twice.) Booking sites, such as
Viator
and
Shore Excursions Group
, make it easy to search for your own tours. Cruise schedules are subject to change, so it's a good idea to book an excursion with a flexible refund policy.' — Lori Rackl
Read the room and the official trip advice.
'Cruises, depending on the line, can be dressy. Before my first, I paid careful attention to the cruise line's packing advice, including details on theme nights. I was glad I did. People really do go all out, and I was relieved I had appropriate evening wear. I went on a Club Med ship filled with cruisers from France, who looked smart (ironed shorts!) every time they stepped out of their cabins. Though we were cruising in North American waters, the vibe was decidedly European.' —
Jody Robbins
, travel writer
Ask an insider.
'Definitely speak to either a travel agent, or an agent with the cruise lines you're considering. Looking for romance? There's a cruise for that. Wine and food? There are itineraries that can bring you up-close-and-personal to some of the best vineyards in Europe. Looking to do South Asia or Egypt but nervous about not speaking the language? Experience them from the rivers with vetted local guides. No question is a stupid question; speaking with a cruise expert and booking the right cruise could make or break your trip.' — Vivian Vassos
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