How to Choose a CruiseUse these simple 11 guidelines to best choose a cruise: 1. Where to go - Decide on the destination first, the ship second. Alaskan and Caribbean cruises are very popular but cruise lines are adding itineraries to unexpected places: Asia, the Indian Ocean, South America. Next, look at the specifics—with Alaskan cruises, for example, ships tend to follow two routes. Inside Passage itineraries run round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver and call in southern Alaskan ports like Juneau and Skagway; Gulf of Alaska itineraries, which sail farther north, are typically one-way trips from Vancouver to Whittier or Seward, or the reverse.
2. When to go - Shoulder seasons can offer bargains. Alaska’s popularity with families means that going in May and September (when children are in school) often means fewer visitors—and better deals. These often sell out quickly! Really it's not as difficult as this all looks. See how these guys decided where and when to cruise ... .. it can be as easy and fun as this.
3. Which line to book - Choose the cruise line and the fellow passengers, that best matchs your personality and interests. If you aren’t matched to the line, you probably won’t cruise again. Some have dress codes and assigned seating times for meals. Some are more kid-friendly and are more casual. While others are more traditional and upscale. 4. What it costs - Be sure to compare 'apples to apples' when looking a different prices. Different cruise lines now offer a wide range of inclusions. Divide the cost by the number of days for a per diem cost. 5. Beating the rush - Many cruise lines give discounts for booking far in advance. It’s never too soon to start planning your cruise. Choose a theme cruise or group and save even more. 6. Ship Size matters - The size of the ship can dictate the itinerary. Bigger is not always better! Smaller ships can dock at smaller ports and offer a more personalized experience. They are often best suited for nature-oriented cruises to Antarctica, the Galápagos, and the Sea of Cortés. The downside: entertainment and dining options are often more limited. 7. Cabin splurge - Consider your itinerary when deciding whether to reserve a balcony stateroom. For a repositioning cruise across the Atlantic, when there will be nothing to see from your balcony but the open ocean for days, it may not matter. On Alaskan and Mediterranean cruises, it’s all about the views. And in Alaska, remember to book a cabin on the starboard (right) side of the ship on a northbound cruise and on the port (left) side of the ship on southbound itineraries so you’ll have a view of the coastline. 8. Arrive early - and stay on after your cruise first, if you don’t book your flight through the cruise line, your ship won’t wait if it’s delayed. As canceled and delayed flights have become commonplace, it’s wise to arrive at your starting port at least a day before you are scheduled to depart. Holland America and Princess Cruises offer luxury railway and lodge trips for passengers in Alaska. 9. Before you board- Don’t waste time waiting in line after you’ve pulled out of port. There are enough activities to make the most adventurous cruiser happy, but popular shore excursions often sell out. Be sure to plan your onboard activities early. Spas on ships have a limited number of treatment rooms; book your massages and facials in advance, if possible. Also, ask if there are discounts for booking treatments on days in port. 10. Turn to an Expert - When it comes to choose a cruise, some professional advice is often indispensable and it’s the main reason why you should book your cruise with a travel agent. 11. Your Group Specialist - Debbie Wakelam A travel coach to here to help you. Just ask me
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