Choosing a cruise can feel like a simple choice, and whilst it is simpler than booking a resort holiday with a hotel, there are still things you need to consider, to ensure you fully enjoy your cruise.
Different cruise lines give you different experiences, with a difference in pace, atmosphere, style and expectations. When choosing your cruise and cruise liner, make sure it’s going to give you a trip with how you like to travel, spend your time and use your budget.
Start With The Kind Of Holiday You Actually Want
Before you look at ships or ports, think about your cruise preferences. Are you wanting pure relaxation, constant activity or a mix? Picture your perfect day at sea and in port, then use that as your filter for booking your trip.
The most important factor is your budget. You need to decide what you value most – a nicer cabin, speciality dining, spa time or paid excursions? When you know what your priorities are, it can help you decide where you want the bulk of your budget to go.
If you are traveling with children, you’ll want good kids programmes and flexible dining plans to keep everyone happy. For couples or a solo traveller, you might prefer a quieter cruise with adult-focused entertainment.
Do you want nightlife and big shows, or are you looking for low-key evenings and early mornings? All of these factors matter when choosing your cruise.
Choose A Destination That Matches Your Travel Style
When you know what kind of holiday you want, you can then choose a destination that matches that preference.
If you crave cultural experiences, look for an itinerary with historic ports, museums, markets and local tours. Mediterranean and asian cruises often pack multiple cultures into one cruise.
If you’re all about adventure, look for destinations known for hiking, snorkeling, zip-lining or glacier trekking. Alaska, the Caribbean and South Pacific routes will give you that kind of adventure fun.
Those that prefer a more relaxing cruise should look for cruises with itineraries with calm beaches, docking in scenic coastal towns, or a cruise ship that is spa-focused, and linger for longer in each port.
Those travelling with kids or a multi-generational group should seek regions and ports that offer family friendly amenities, like safer beaches, easy transport and interactive attractions.
Think About Weather Seasons And Sea Days
Even the best-planned cruise can feel off, if you ignore weather patterns and how many days you’ll actually spend at sea.
Always check the typical sea conditions for your potential route, and match this with your climate preference. Do you want topical humidity, dry heat or crisp and cooler air?
Check for seasonal attractions too, as different locations have different things to offer. Alaska’s best wildlife and glacier views cluster in summer, the Caribbean’s hurricane season can affect your itinerary and comfort, whilst Mediterranean summers bring heat and crowds.
The weather and climate affects your packing list too. If you have rougher or cooler conditions, you’re going to need to choose layers, seasickness remedies and waterproof gear. Hotter locations mean you’ll need to pack breathable fabrics and strong sun protection.
Decide What You Want To Do In Port
Once you’ve checked the seasons, sea days and general conditions, think about what you’d like to do when the ship docks in port. Picture your ideal day ashore, and if you’re going to want to wander through cobblestone streets, hiking a volcano or tasting street food.
Check the excursions at each port, so make sure there’s activities that you’d want to do. If you’re a fan of culture, look for excursions where you can do a walking tour, visit markets and visit cultural neighborhoods, rather than excursions where you’re just generic shopping.
If history is more your thing, choose cruise routes rich in historical sites like old towns, ruins, forts and museums, giving you enough hours in port, so you can explore them properly.
