Before You Book a Cruise, Here’s What I’d Think About
Before You Book a Cruise, Here’s What I’d Think About
I love cruising. It’s one of the easiest ways to see several places in one trip, and there’s something pretty great about unpacking once and waking up somewhere new.
But picking a cruise can get confusing fast. There are SO many ships, cruise lines, ports and cabin choices, and the cheapest cruise isn’t always the one I’d choose.
If you told me you were thinking about booking one, here’s what I’d want to know first.
Who Are You Going With?
This matters more than people think. A couples trip, girls trip, family vacation and trip with teenagers are four completely different vacations.
I wouldn’t recommend the same ship for all of them. Before I even start looking at prices, I want to know who’s going and what everyone actually wants to do.
Don't Pick a Cruise Just for the Ports
The ship is part of the vacation too.
Some people want shows, activities and something happening all the time. Others want good food, a drink by the pool and somewhere quiet to sit and look at the ocean.
And honestly, sometimes the ship is my favorite part.
Your Cabin Location Matters
I don't think you have to spend a fortune on a cabin, but I do think you should pay attention to where it is.
Look at what is above you, below you and around you. Being underneath a busy deck or right near a noisy area can make a difference.
And decide how you'll actually use your room. Some people are perfectly happy with an inside cabin because they're never there. Others want coffee on their own balcony every morning. Neither one is wrong.
Fly In the Day Before. Seriously.
If you have to fly to your cruise port, I am a huge fan of arriving the day before.
Flights get delayed. Bags get lost. Weather happens.
I'd much rather start vacation with dinner and a hotel near the port than spend embarkation morning staring at the clock in an airport.
You Don't Have to Book an Excursion in Every Port
Sometimes an excursion is absolutely worth it.
Sometimes I'd rather get off the ship, find a beach, walk around town, eat somewhere local and explore on my own.
And sometimes? Staying on the ship while everyone else gets off is pretty great too.
Don't Automatically Book the Cheapest One
A cheap cruise can absolutely be a great cruise. But compare what you're actually getting.
Look at the ship, itinerary, cabin, what's included, where it leaves from and what you're going to spend getting to the port.
A $100 difference in cruise fare doesn't mean much if one option fits your trip so much better.
My Biggest Cruise Advice
Don't start with “Which cruise is the best?”
Start with “What do I want this vacation to feel like?”
Relaxing? Lots to do? Great food? Family time? Party weekend? Romantic getaway? New places?
Once you know that, choosing the cruise gets a whole lot easier.
WANT HELP FINDING YOUR CRUISE?
Tell me who's going, when you want to travel, what kind of trip you're picturing and what you want to spend. I'll help you sort through the options and find one that actually fits your trip.
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