First Time on a Cruise? Top Tips for Smooth Sailing

Are you thinking about taking that cruise for the first time? Not sure if it's really for you? here are some tips that might help you take the plunge!

Find a good Travel Agent
You can spend time looking at the cruise lines own websites, but why bother when you can get the agent to do it for you? It doesn't matter whether the agent is online or a real person, using a good travel agent has real benefits. They'll help you decide on the best cruise lines and destinations for your individual circumstances. They'll do all of the work and be there to answer any questions you might have. It's worth shopping two or three agents to see which ones will give you the service your looking for. Some agents may charge a fee, but for a cruise booking many won't. Don't believe that by going direct to the cruise line you'll save any money. In many cases agents will offer you rates for some cruises that are cheaper than you'll get from the cruise line because of special deals they have negotiated. A good thing to check for is membership of CLIA (The Cruise Lines Industry Association). CLIA Certified Cruise Counselors are experienced cruises and have sailed on or inspected many ships. They really can offer the first hand knowledge and experience that a first time cruiser needs.

Start Small
If your not sure that a cruise is for you, try taking a short weekend cruise (or even an overnight 'cruise to nowhere'). There are regular 4 day sailings from the West Coast (Los Angeles) to Mexico and from the East Coast (Florida) to the Caribbean. Some short cruises may also occasionally sail from further north along the east coast (such as New York) or From Texas. Spring and fall are often good times to get shorter overnight cruises when the ships are repositioning between their summer and winter cruise areas. Your good travel agent will be able to suggest some itineraries.

Budget Properly
Cruising is a good 'All Inclusive' style vacation. As a general rule your accommodation, meals and entertainment are all included in the cruise fare. However, you need to budget for other things, and this can add up, so you need to allow for these extras in your overall vacation budget. You'll not be paying cash as you go either. The cruise line will add the on board purchases to your shipboard account which is settled when the cruise ends (they'll ask for your credit card before you board). If you don't keep a check on this, or your not prepared, it can come as quite a shock. For Example, while some drinks are normally included with meals there may be an additional charge for alcoholic drinks such as wine, beer and spirits. Away from the restaurants you may be paying for all your drinks, including soda, tea, coffee and even water. Some cruise lines offer a prepaid "fountain card' that gives you unlimited fountain drinks for a single cost. This is an excellent option if you don't want to run up a huge bill at the end of the cruise. You'll also be paying for any shore excursions you take at the port of calls. These can be booked and paid for (added to your account) on board but if you want to keep a close eye on the budget book and pay for them ahead of time. Again your travel agent will be able to provide the details and make the necessary arrangements. Of course you don't have to take their excursions and some destinations can be fun just exploring on your own. Other on board expenses include tips for the staff. The cruise line will automatically add a per-set amount to your account unless you tell them not to or tell them to amend the amount. All cruise ships have one or two 'premium restaurants'. These are nice for that special occasion, but there will be an additional charge.

Pack for your destination
People often ask what they should pack and a good general rule to follow is to 'pack for your destination'. Take what you would for a resort holiday. Today's cruise ships mostly are casual and informal. On some ships there are "Smart casual" requirements for evening dining, such as slacks and an open neck shirt for men and skirts, dresses and slacks for ladies. Your on vacation after all. Depending on the length of the cruise there may be one, tow or more "formal nights" (Usually on a 7 day cruise there are 2). This is an opportunity for everyone to dress in their finery. Formal night dining would require ladies to wear evening gowns and cocktail dresses and men to wear a tux or slacks with dinner jackets. Usually Suits are also acceptable. To save you dragging them along in your baggage you do get the option of renting formal wear for the occasion. You should check your cruise line travel documents about what is required for you cruise and whats available (and at what cost) if you decide to rent. If you are going to rent, make sure you reserve it ahead of time, well before you sail through your agent or cruise line office. For those that prefer not to dress up, casual dining options are always available.

Make friends, Enjoy yourself and think about the next cruise.
Cruise lines offer big discounts for people who book their next cruise on board. You also might get some on board credit on the next cruise you book, giving you free spending money and keeping that final bill for the on board account down. You have your travel agent takeover the reservation when you return and depending on the departure date of your next cruise, you may still be able to change your mind.