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How To Pick the Best Cruise for You

The following questions will help you determine which cruise is right for you.

#1: How long do you want to be on vacation?

It is important to realize that not every cruise is created equal. Cruise lines offer varying cruise lengths, so it is important to choose a cruise that will suit your intended schedule. Popular cruises include the 3-day weekend cruise, 4-day midweek, week long, and 10-day. If you are planning to get away from it all for an extended period of time, you can even opt for cruises that last several months. On the other end of the scale, you can try a 2-day cruise, or a cruise that only lasts several hours – if you simply want to test the waters of cruise travel. Choosing a great cruise depends on choosing a cruise schedule that will suit your needs.

#2: Where do you want to go?

This is the best choice you’ll have to make during the selection process. There are tons of exotic and fun destinations that will suit anyone’s tastes. Cruise the waters of the Caribbean, Pacific coast, Mexico or Alaska (a popular choice). Pick a cruise that will take you where you want to go. Essentially, where there’s water, there’s probably a cruise.

#3: Do you know the differences between cruise lines?

Although many companies offer cruises to the same regions of the world, not every cruise in that area is the same. The Caribbean, for example, is traversed by many different cruise lines that have their own ships and their own style. Choose a ship that offers the amenities and activities that you look for in a cruise vacation, but also choose a ship that fits your budget. Prices range from low budget to luxurious. Also, ports of call and length of trip can vary, so make sure to do your homework ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

#4: Can you travel solo?

Make sure that the cruise you sign up for allows single passengers if you are planning to cruise the open waves by yourself. Usually cruise lines offer special discount rates for single passengers, even though most of their cabins are built to accommodate two or more people. But be careful, as some cruises do not offer discounts to lonely travelers. Don’t sign up for a cruise that requires you to pay double. Seek out cruise lines that offer a lower rate for single occupancy.

Luckily, there is another option. “Single share” programs double you up with a roommate, which allows you to travel at half the price. In addition, cruises that offer this program usually offer you a cheaper rate even if they can’t find you a partner. The only downside – you might get stuck with a person you can’t stand.

#5: What should you look for in a cruise line?

Because every cruise line is different, it is crucial to do your research ahead of time. When you go on a cruise, the ship becomes your whole vacation – hotel, restaurant, and entertainment – all wrapped up in one. When researching, look for cruises that offer activities, themes, destinations and food with which you will feel comfortable. No one wants to be stuck on a cruise ship that makes you miserable. Also, cheaper isn’t always best. Instead, find the lowest rate that offers the most.

Some more tips…

• Make sure you choose a cruise line that is designed for your age group and family situation
• Look for a cruise line that offers an atmosphere you will find appropriate to your needs. Some are calm, while others are elegant and offer only the best. Others offer fun activities that are designed to be crowd pleasers.
• Research the scheduled ports of call. Are exciting shore trips planned, or are all the activities going to bore you?

#6: How can I research the different cruises?

• Read through the cruise lines’ websites and brochures to gather information. Peruse the pictures and find out the different activities that are planned for each ship.
• Before you sift through countless brochures and ads, determine ahead of time the type of cruise you will enjoy. Some people want to relax while cruising, while others want to party every day of the week or spend some romantic time with that special someone. Knowing your expectations ahead of time will make choosing a cruise that much easier.
• Ask around. Sometimes friends and family have good advice to give when it comes to cruises. Just make sure you take their advice only as a means to gather information. In the end, everyone is different, and it pays off to do what’s right for you.
• Ask questions. Your booking agent is a great resource on cruise lines. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice when deciding on a vacation destination.

#7: In summary, what are the most important things to look for in a cruise?

• Cost: match a cruise to your budget and you won’t break the bank
• Deals: look for discounts and specials that will stretch your dollar to the max
• Cuisine: research the reputation of the cruise line and find out about the quality of the food on board
• Reputation: is the cruise line known for excellent customer service?
• Safety: check out the ship’s safety and cleanliness record
• Atmosphere: find a ship that you will love
• Cruise length
• Ship facilities
• Planned activities
• Theme
• Ports of call
• Shore excursions