Your First Cruise

1st time cruisers feel they have many choices to make and it may all feel daunting. If this is how you feel, take heart! It is quite simple once you have done a little research. There are many websites dedicated to cruise reviews.

Let’s break down your choices into bite size chunks:

Choice of cruise: For many 1st time cruisers, this alone can feel daunting. There are many cruise lines and ships, length of cruise, places to go (destinations) and ports. There are different ports: one you start and finish and the ones you stop at to visit.

Start with destination. What do you want to see? Lots of sun and ocean? Wildlife? Exotic? Cruise lines go to most countries now.

Next look at ports. Is there one near you? That might be a more affordable option. How many days do you want to cruise? 3 days? 7 days or more? If you live near a port a 3 day trip might be worth your while.

Tip: Research the cruise line and ships when you’ve narrowed down where and when you want to go. On one ship we climbed a rock wall, went ice skating, miniature golfed and played bingo.

Choice of room: On quite a few cruises you view will be miles of ocean which you can see from any deck on your ship. Choosing an inside room is a good idea for your 1st cruise and it’s cheaper. And really, with everything to do on board, you’ll only use your room for changing and sleeping!

Choice of dining: As you book your cruise you will be asked for preference in dining. On most cruise lines the times as ‘early’ (6:30ish PM) and ‘late’ (8:30ish PM). Look at the time your ship is docked. Does the ship leave most ports at 8 PM? You may want late seating if you plan to play all day at port. Or if you are the early-to-bed-early-to-rise person, opt for early seating.

Tip: If you have early dinner seating, the shows are after your dinner. Shows are first for late seating. And if you miss any shows, they broadcast them on the TV in your room.

Secret Tip: Late seating no one is rushing you off for the next dinner guests. You can stay and talk longer.

Choice of Shore Excursion: What is a shore excursion? Basically a tour. There are many different tours to choose from. At each stop or port, you are free to get off the ship and explore or stay onboard and nap! You can book tours such as sightseeing, visiting beaches, shopping and more through the ship. On your cruise lines website is a link to read about each of their tours or excursions and prices. It is a good idea to book your excursions early as many sell out faster than others.

Tip: Shore Excursions are NOT included in your cruise price.

Choice of spa or speciality dining: Do you enjoy massages, facials or pedicures? You can get all of these and more on board. Book early.  On most ships are one or two speciality dining areas. The food is high-end specialties and delicious. Book early.

Tip: Spa and speciality dining cost extra also.

Choice of clothes:

I’ll cover packing in the next segment. Be warned! Newbie cruisers always over pack!

Packing Light For A Seven-Day Cruise

15 Strange Items to Pack for a Cruise

First Time Cruise Help 1

First Time Cruise Help 2

Packing Light for a Seven day Cruise

Top 10 Questions to Avoid Asking on a Cruise

15 Strange Items to Pack for a Cruise