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These cruise lines tend to be less glamorous, and you’ll likely be paying for more optional add-ons, such as drink packages and excursions. But you’ll still find plenty of activities to keep you entertained, no matter who you’re cruising with. The cruise itinerary is a key aspect of cruise planning. Choosing a cruise based on the itinerary might already be clear from your initial planning, or you might be drawn to a particular cruise line and ship – this sometimes happens. Aim for a balance between port-of-calls and sea days to match your preferences. By booking early, not only will you usually get a better deal, but you’ll also get the best choices of cabins.
DISCOVER YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
While you can find someone local, it’s common to work with a cruise travel agent through email and occasional phone calls as needed. In this post, I share how to book a cruise for the first time, in a step by step guide. You’ll find answers to some common questions people have about booking a cruise, as well as tips to avoid unfortunate rookie mistakes. Several lines offer voyages ranging in duration from two to five days, visiting areas in the Caribbean, Mexico, the Bahamas and more. Most of these depart from homeports in Florida and California, meaning that you might have to pay to fly to your ship on embarkation day if you don't live locally. You will typically get up to $1000 or $2000 onboard spending credits.
Do you want an all-inclusive experience?
This one might seem obvious, but one of the first steps in planning a cruise is determining where you'd like to go. All of the shows will require you to have a reservation for the date/time of the show. I have found that on shorter cruises you did not need to do this but on longer cruises it is essential. On big ships like Oasis of the Seas it is important to book ahead. Once you book your cruise you will be able to book excursions at the destination ports you are going. You can download the cruise line app to make this easier.
FIND A DEPARTURE PORT NEAR YOU
So, if you plan on enjoying any of these add-ons, be sure to budget accordingly. If you are new to cruising, we outline several cruise tips that we have learned over the years in this Beginner's Guide to Planning a Cruise. Start your vacation with a beverage in your hand from the moment you get onboard. For the non-drinkers, the Zero Proof Drink Package offers unlimited bottled water, specialty coffees, coconut water, smoothies, and juices. If you don’t live within driving distance of your departure port, you’ll need to book flights, too.
How do Slot Tournaments Work? Details & Expectations Royal Caribbean Cruises
Even at other ports of call, guests will only be allowed off the ship to participate in cruise line-approved shore excursions. Short 2, 3 or 4 day sailings just don’t give you enough time to experience it all, while also relaxing. Half of the fun of going on a cruise vacation is exploring new destinations. While at your ports of call, you will want to have a plan which may include booking some shore excursions. These activities can include city tours, adventure experiences, water based fun, beach breaks, food tours, and plenty of other exciting experiences.
Amenities on the Ship
Entertainment on Royal Caribbean is second to none, with Aqua and Ice Skating shows, Broadways shows and more on many of their cruise ships. Royal Caribbean is great for families as well as cruisers of all ages. MSC Cruises have beautiful cruise ships, many of which are known for their famous sparkly Zwarovski crystal stairs. MSC cruise ships have a European flair, which includes dining and entertainment that may feel more international.
Why now is the best time to book your 2024 cruise vacation - Cruise Blog
Why now is the best time to book your 2024 cruise vacation.
Posted: Wed, 10 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Your budget should include the cost of the cruise packages. Also, include the cost of flights and hotels at the embarkation port. When planning a cruise, it’s important to avoid mistakes such as booking the cheapest option without researching the cruise line and ship, especially if you’re a first-time cruiser. Choosing the wrong cruise line and the ship can lead to disappointment and ruin your first cruise experience. A travel agent or an online agency might provide additional support for first-time cruisers. No matter which option you choose to make sure it’s with a trustworthy and customer-focused provider.
Amazing Family Friendly Summer Cruise Vacations
Here’s a list of things to do as you plan your first cruise. Here’s a list of the cruise accessories and travel items to pack for your vacation. This can be really helpful as your travel agent can help to book hotels and flights, share important information from the cruise line and answer your questions along the way.
Start Planning Your Cruise Now!
But that doesn't mean you can't save big time by booking your flights to and from a ship using points and miles. It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising — or any sort of travel. We hate to even bring it up, but you might need to cancel your cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness.
If you want a balcony room just book the lowest balcony level available. If you book early enough, you can easily create a monthly cruise plan budget to pay off the cruise before you go on it. I mentioned early that certain times of the year are less expensive to cruise. Sometimes adding 4 people in a room will save you money. The first thing you need to think about when planning a cruise is the time of year you would like to go. Chantae Reden is an adventure writer and photographer who rarely strays far from the coastline.
We recommend packing a highlighter so you can easily identify the events in which you're interested. Further, it's important to note that many drinks are not free. Most often, all that's covered by your fare is tap water, tea (hot and iced), drip coffee, lemonade and sometimes juice (at breakfast).
You can book your flights on your own through your favorite travel website, a travel agent or by using reward points. You can also book your flights with the cruise line using cruise line air. One of the most common mistakes people make when going on a cruise is flying in on the same day of their cruise. While many times things can turn out just fine, by planning to arrive the same day as your cruise you risk arriving late and missing your cruise. Mini suites are great cabins for families or anyone who wants more space, including a small living area in their state room. Mini suite staterooms will usually have a larger bathroom and a bathtub, whereas the lower cruise cabin categories will have smaller bathrooms and just a shower.
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