Perhaps the thought of blowing your life savings or the uncertainty of what to expect has kept you from fulfilling your seafaring wishes. However, we’re here to assure you that there are cruises to suit all types of adventures and budgets. Gone are the days where taking a cruise was solely for the select few and elite. Today, you, too, can fulfill your dreams and travel the high seas in style.
Interested? Let's explore a few tips on how to ensure your cruise is nothing but smooth sailing.
There are many ways to enjoy a cruise, and not all of these getaways take you to the other side of the world. In fact, a shorter cruise might be the order of the day if you fear sea-sickness or wish to stay closer to home on your maiden voyage.
Likewise, you could choose to go on a river or harbor cruise as part of your first experience, allowing you to enjoy either a few hours to a couple of days on-board. Same-continent destinations might also be a great option, and you could visit several major cities in the area of your choice within a few days. If you choose a small cruise ship, they often sail through narrow areas inaccessible by larger vessels.
Additionally, you can book cruises to one or multiple destinations, some of which spend more leisure time at sea than others. Popular destinations include the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, the South Pacific, Mediterranean and, if you’re feeling up for an extraordinary adventure, opt for a snowy and magnificent Alaska cruise before 2019 ends!
It’s worth thinking and planning ahead about where on the cruise ship you want to stay, as each location has different advantages.
Top Tip: To avoid suffering from seasickness, head toward the center of the boat, where there tends to be less motion and you're less likely to feel woozy.
Due to the all-inclusivity of cruises, the majority of your food and drinks will be covered as part of the price of your ticket. Thus, you should only expect to pay extra for alcohol or fine dining. Then again, a cruise buffet is nothing to scoff at. To cruise sustainably, don’t pile your plate high with food which will ultimately be wasted, instead have a regular plate then have seconds.
You might also be worried about how to spend your time while out at sea. Most cruises include basic entertainment, but if you’re after a more select experience or wish to include excursions at one (or more) of the ports of call, you might want to buy an all-inclusive pack.
An all-inclusive ticket can save you money on your final bill, as it includes all the extra amenities like special drinks and food, Wi-Fi, additional evening classes, some excursions and other culturally-inspired activities. Many cruises also offer free childcare, so don’t let your little ones be the reason you don’t go on the trip of your dreams, as they'll be having a stellar time themselves.
If you want to support the local economy at each destination, book excursions directly with local companies, they will appreciate the money and you will be helping to feed a family.
What’s Left to Think About?
Once you know where you would feel most at home on a cruise ship and whether to book port of call excursions or an all-inclusive pack, you’ve made most of the decisions you’ll need. Now all that's left to do is pick the destination of your intrepid adventure, lean back and relax.