Ready to set sail on an adventure of a lifetime? A cruise is the ultimate combination of relaxation, entertainment and exploration. Whether you’re an old hand at cruising or a first timer, this will help you plan the perfect trip. From choosing the right cruise to packing and making the most of your time on board we’ve got you covered.
Choosing the right cruise
First step to a great sea vacation is choosing the right cruise for you. Consider destination, cruise line and length of trip. Popular destinations include the Caribbean for beach lovers, Alaska for nature enthusiasts and the Mediterranean for history and culture buffs. Research the different cruise lines as each offers a different experience. Luxury cruises offer 5 star service, world class amenities and exclusive shore excursions, family friendly cruises are loaded with activities for kids and teens so there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a cruise that caters to the whole family look for the best cruise for families which often have dedicated kids clubs, family orientated excursions and activities for all age groups. If you want a more intimate experience smaller boutique style cruises can offer personal service and less crowded spaces.
When to Go
Timing is everything. Off peak means fewer crowds, better deals and more peaceful on board and in port. If you want a quieter more relaxing trip this is the time to travel. Peak season means more fun with parties, themed events and busy activities. Peak season means busy and lively on board activities which if you like a lively social scene is perfect for you.
Weather also plays a big part in when to sail especially for certain destinations. Research the weather patterns in your chosen destination to ensure smooth sailing, warm beach days or ideal conditions for outdoor activities. For example the Mediterranean is best visited in late spring or early fall and the Caribbean is popular in winter which is the dry season.
Booking and Budgeting
Getting a good deal can make all the difference. Look for promotions, deals or discounts on the cruise line’s website, a travel agent or even off peak discounts. Keep an eye out for special sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday when deep discounts on cabin rates and add-ons are offered.
Set a budget and factor in extras like shore excursions, specialty dining, spa treatments and onboard purchases. Many cruises offer all inclusive packages that cover meals, drinks and excursions which can help you manage your expenses better and no surprises when it’s time to pay the bill. Also set aside a small amount for tips as these are not included in the base price.
Packing
Packing for a cruise requires planning. While comfortable clothing and swimwear are must haves don’t forget formal attire for dinner or themed nights. Lightweight layers are also important for temperature fluctuations especially when crossing multiple climates. A good pair of walking shoes will come in handy when doing shore excursions as you’ll want to explore as much as possible in port cities or natural landscapes.
Sunscreen, travel documents, medications and gadgets like phone chargers and camera equipment should always be on your checklist. Some cruise lines also recommend packing a power strip to plug in multiple devices as outlets in cabins can be limited. A small day bag is handy for carrying personal items during shore excursions where you may want to keep essentials like water, sunglasses and your camera handy.
Making the Most of Onboard Amenities
Cruises are like floating resorts with lots of amenities. From pools and spas to gyms, theaters and shopping boutiques there’s something for everyone. Before you sail take some time to study the ship’s daily schedule and daily newsletter to make the most of activities like live shows, trivia games, dance classes, cooking workshops and wine tastings. Many cruises offer wellness programs like yoga and meditation sessions to help you balance relaxation and rejuvenation.
Make sure to try out the many dining options on board. Cruise lines boast of having multiple restaurants from international buffets serving global cuisine to intimate specialty restaurants for fine dining. Some even offer special dining events like chef’s table or behind the scenes kitchen tours for foodies.
Shore Excursions
One of the best parts of cruising is not having to travel everywhere. Plan your excursions in advance to make the most of your time in each port. Whether you like guided tours, adventure activities or just wandering, book early to avoid disappointment. Many cruise lines also offer curated excursions that include transfers, meals and expert tour guides for a hassle free day.
Popular excursions include sightseeing tours, nature walks, snorkelling, beach day trips and city tours. If you’re feeling more adventurous book excursions like zip lining, bungee jumping or diving with marine life. Make sure to check the difficulty level of each activity as some can be quite strenuous or require prior experience.
Staying Safe and Healthy
Health and safety first. Pay attention to the safety drills on board and familiarise yourself with the ship’s safety procedures. Be mindful of personal hygiene and use hand sanitizers in high traffic areas like the buffet as some cruises may have specific health measures in place for hygiene. Hydration is key at sea – especially in sunny tropical destinations – so make sure to drink plenty of water.
If you’re prone to seasickness pack remedies like ginger candies, motion sickness bands or anti-nausea patches to minimize discomfort. Seasickness medication is available on board but having your preferred treatment with you is a good idea.
Also be aware of the health protocols in place when disembarking at international ports. Some destinations may require specific vaccinations or health certificates before you can disembark.
Relaxation and Fun
A sea vacation should be a balance of excitement and relaxation. Schedule some downtime to enjoy the ocean views, sunbathe by the pool or hot tub or read your favourite book in a lounge chair on deck. Balancing relaxation with adventure means a stress free holiday. For example plan one day with lots of onboard activity – dancing and sports – and balance it with an afternoon in the spa or a quiet walk around the deck as the ship sails into another beautiful sunset.
Don’t miss out on activities that are of interest to you. Whether it’s dancing with other passengers, a cooking class with a celebrity chef or making new friends at a themed party, there’s something for every kind of adventurer.
Memories
Document your journey so you can treasure the memories for years to come. Bring a camera or use your phone to capture sunsets, family and friends and onboard activities. Many cruise lines also offer professional photography services for special occasions like anniversaries or family photoshoots. You can take home high quality prints or digital photo albums to remember the highlights of your cruise.
In addition to photos, keep a journal of your experiences. You never know when you’ll want to flip through your notes and remember that perfect sunset, the new friend you made or that amazing shore excursion.
Disembarkation
As your journey comes to an end make sure to settle your onboard account and pack your luggage before the last night of the cruise. Pay attention to the final instructions from the cruise staff – departure times, where to meet and customs procedures. Take time to reflect on your amazing experiences. Many passengers use this time to bond with fellow passengers and share tips for future cruises. And while your trip is coming to an end consider starting to plan your next one as many come back to cruising.
End
A sea vacation is more than a trip; it’s an experience of relaxation, adventure and discovery. By planning ahead, making the most of the onboard options and being open to new experiences you’ll have a holiday filled with joy and memories to treasure. So pack your bags, set sail and get ready for the ultimate escape that will leave you refreshed, inspired and wanting more. Happy sailing and many more moments at sea! First or fiftieth cruise, a cruise will deliver new experiences, beautiful views and memories to last.
