Have you ever dreamed of booking the perfect cruise but felt overwhelmed about where to begin? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, I’ll reveal all the secrets to crafting your ultimate dream holiday at sea.
Understanding the Cruise Lines
When I first booked a cruise, I was utterly bewildered by the multitude of cruise lines. I once thought they were all just big ships sailing the ocean! That couldn’t be further from the truth.
Cruise lines generally fall into three categories: mass-market, premium, and ultra-luxury. I’ll focus primarily on ocean cruising for this post, but it’s worth noting that there are also river and expedition cruises.
- Mass-Market Lines: Think Royal Caribbean and Carnival, perfect for fun-loving families and party enthusiasts. Expect thrilling waterslides and dazzling stage shows!
- Premium Lines: Options like Princess and Oceania cater to a more mature audience, providing entertaining performances but with a more laid-back vibe.
- Ultra-Luxury Lines: For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, look at Regent Seven Seas and Silversea, where intimate ships and refined service abound.
Each cruise line features various ships, some accommodating just over 2,000 passengers, like the Grandeur of the Seas, while others, like the colossal Icon of the Seas, can host around 7,500 adventure seekers. The newer ships are often larger and packed with thrilling activities and venues!
Choosing the Right Cruise Line
So, how do you decide which cruise line is right for you? It all boils down to your holiday style and your group’s preferences.
- If you love partying, consider a lively mass-market line like Carnival.
- For families, Norwegian is ideal, packed with action and fun.
- Seeking tranquillity? Opt for a premium line like Princess.
- Looking for an adult-only escape? Consider majestic Viking Voyages.
My top tip? Narrow your choices to two or three lines, then explore YouTube for real reviews. Search phrases like “MSC cruises for families” or “Viking Voyages for older travellers.”
Understanding Cabin Options
Next up: cabins! When I first heard “inside cabin,” I assumed all cabins were inside the ship. Wrong! This term refers to cabins without windows.
Most ships offer six cabin types:
- Inside Cabin: The most budget-friendly option, without windows. Some cruisers enjoy the cosy, dark sleep it provides—just consider a sunrise alarm clock to ease you into the morning!
- Ocean View Cabin: Features a window (non-opening), offering views but no sea breeze.
- Balcony Cabin: Ideal for fresh air lovers, but watch out for “infinite veranda” options—some love them, while others do not.
- Mini-Suite: Offers extra space and comfort.
- Suite: Generous living arrangements, sometimes with multiple bedrooms and baths.
- Owner’s Suite: The penthouse at sea—luxurious and spacious!
Choosing the right cabin depends on your budget and preference. If you enjoy fresh air, a balcony is perfect. However, if you’re cruising somewhere cooler, you may want to rethink that decision.
Destination and Itinerary Considerations
Now that you have cabin options in mind, it’s time to consider your destination and cruise duration. Are you seeking a quick getaway or a grand adventure? To save costs, look for cruises departing from your home port or a nearby location.
Once you have your port, check available itineraries for your desired travel month. Ideally, aim for at least five days at sea, as anything less might leave you wanting more! However, if this is your first cruise, stick with shorter options so you know it’s the right fit for you.
Additional Packages and Shore Excursions
Most cruise lines offer add-on packages for WiFi, drink packages, daily gratuities, and more. Be sure to explore the cruise line’s website for the full breakdown of optional offerings to understand the total costs involved.
Considering shore excursions? You can often book through the cruise line for convenience but independent providers may offer similar trips at lower prices. Platforms like What’s in Port and Viator are excellent resources for exploring alternatives.
Independent excursions can offer smaller groups and unique experiences, but do keep in mind that booking through the cruise line ensures the ship won’t leave without you!
Onboard Activities
One of the biggest surprises for first-time cruisers is the staggering number of onboard activities available! Your bonus tip: thoroughly research what’s happening on your ship! Even quieter vessels boast hidden gems and exciting activities just waiting to be discovered.
Some ships offer so many dining options and venues that you could spend an entire week onboard and still not see everything. Be sure to look up ship reviews, deck plans, and YouTube videos to make notes on what you’d like to experience during your time at sea.
Once onboard, don’t forget to check the daily activity newsletter to stay updated on everything happening—many cruise lines now have apps for this purpose!
Final Thoughts
As we dock, I encourage you to explore even more of our travel tips and share your favourite cruise secrets in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more exciting travel content! Until next time, happy sailing!
Products used in this post
These may be Amazon affiliate links.
Sunrise alarm clock
Sunrise alarm clock alternative – Philips Hue 2 bluetooth
Drink package calculators
Port Planner (Carnival Cruises Australia, P&O Australia, Princess, Royal Caribbean) https://www.portplanner.com.au/dpc
Cruise Mummy (Ambassador, Carnival, Celebrity, Costa, Cunard, Fred. Olsen, Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, P&O, Princess, Royal Caribbean) https://www.cruisemummy.co.uk/cruise-drinks-package-calculator/
Cruzely (Carnival, Celebrity, MSC, Norwegian, Princess, Royal Caribbean) https://www.cruzely.com/cruise-line-drink-package-calculator/
What’s in Port https://www.whatsinport.com/
Viator (affiliate link) https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00213240&mcid=42383&medium=link
Cruise Critic Forum https://boards.cruisecritic.com
Even more links
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Viator (affiliate link) https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00213240&mcid=42383&medium=link
Alosim eSims use code 7NBZZYI to get $3 off your first purchase https://alosim.com/
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