I've been cruising since I was five years old. While I don't remember every aspect of my weeklong Disney cruise, I remember the excitement of boarding the ship.
Over the years, my love for cruising has grown into a full-fledged obsession. On any given day, I can be caught browsing at least one cruise line's website, trying to fit another vacation into my busy schedule.
As a travel writer, I've honed my cruise planning skills, learning the ins and outs of different cruise lines, ships, itineraries, and cabins.
Planning your first cruise can feel intimidating. How long should the cruise be? What's the best itinerary? Which cabins should you avoid?
Thankfully, planning your first cruise doesn't have to be as overwhelming as you think. While there's a lot to learn, the process can be simple and straightforward with the right advice.
Here are my 8 best tips when planning a cruise, as someone who has been on nearly 30.
Book with a travel agent
Seasoned cruisers and newbies alike should consider finding a trustworthy travel agent. I'll admit that for many years, I took pleasure in booking my own trips and didn't want to give up that element of control.
However, after using an agent to book over a dozen cruises, I’ve come to appreciate the invaluable expertise and convenience of a good travel agent.
Not only has my agent saved me thousands of dollars with their exclusive group rates, but she's been a great resource when I'm stuck between cabins, itineraries, and ships. In essence, she provides me with the information I need to make the best decision, so I don't have to spend time researching on my own.
First-timers can especially benefit from an agent, as they can help you understand the nuances of booking a cruise you might not think about. For example, they can walk you through the different types of dining (traditional vs. flexible) and help you choose the right add-ons based on your preferences.
Understand each line's target demographic
Cruise lines aren't created equally. As such, it's important to understand each line's target demographic. For example, are you trying to plan a multigenerational vacation with aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, etc., or do you want a short getaway with your girlfriends?
Understanding the target demographic of each cruise line will make sure your trip is everything you want it to be. It's crucial to pick the line that best aligns with your travel style to save you potential frustrations once onboard.
For instance, Royal Caribbean is a great choice for families and multigenerational vacations because its fleet features ships with kid-friendly activities, spacious suites, youth clubs, and adult-only spaces, including the casino, spa, and exclusive sundeck.
Comparatively, Princess Cruises would have far less for children to do, as their ships focus on craft cocktail bars, world-class cuisine, unique itineraries, and a more relaxed, refined atmosphere. That said, Princess could be a great choice for adults seeking a port-intensive cruise in Europe or Asia.
Research the specific ship
Once you've decided on the right cruise line, you must narrow down the ship. Though certain aspects of the experience will be similar across a cruise line's fleet, each ship has its own quirks, especially if you're comparing newer and older vessels.
For example, sailing on Carnival Celebration is a different experience than cruising on Carnival Elation. The latter is the line's smallest ship, and though the 71,909 gross-ton ship features waterslides and a mini-golf course, it doesn't have the same state-of-the-art amenities and dining options as the newer Celebration.
The same is true on lines like Royal Caribbean. Though the cruise line is known for having the world's largest ships, the fleet is comprised of vessels as small as the 73,817 gross-ton Grandeur of the Seas. Booking a cruise on Grandeur would be disappointing if you are expecting a massive water park, zip-line, ice skating rink, or skydiving simulator.
Don't assume you should book the cheapest cabin
If I had it my way, I'd never sail in windowless interior rooms. However, as someone who cruises at least ten times per year, I have to make compromises to stay within budget.
Inside cabins aren't for everyone. Because they lack a window, there's no natural light. Plus, they're typically the smallest rooms onboard. On vacation, you should make sure that you are comfortable and happy with your space.
In other words, if a dark interior cabin is going to be a point of contention, it's best to splurge on a room with a window. Oftentimes, the price difference isn't as significant as you might think.
For many, balconies are a must-have on a cruise. There's something undeniably special about having a private verandah to sit on as you sail through the open waters. A beachfront hotel room just isn't the same!
Before booking that interior stateroom because it's the cheapest option, think about whether you'd be truly happy. If you are someone who enjoys afternoon naps in the cabin or waking up to the sight of a new destination, a balcony may be worth the extra money.
Read more: Cruise ship cabins: Everything you need to know
Book your add-ons before your cruise
Unless sailing on an ultra-luxe line like Explora Journeys or Regent Seven Seas, your cruise fare won't be all-inclusive.
Though cruise fares include a lot to make them justifiable compared to many land vacations, there are certain extras you may want to budget for, including drink packages, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, and spa treatments.
One of the best ways to ensure availability and get the best pricing on add-ons is to book them before your cruise. Once you've placed your deposit, you'll have access to your cruise line's planning portal to browse all the options.
Some cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, are known for pre-cruise sales where you sometimes save up to 40% off the onboard price of drink packages.
I've saved hundreds of dollars by planning my cruise extras in advance. For example, I secured a drink package for a weeklong cruise on Icon of the Seas for just $70 per person, including the 18% mandatory service charge. Comparatively, the onboard price is advertised at $110 per day.
Read more: 17 hidden cruise ship extra charges you should know about
Fly to your embarkation port the day before
Living in North Carolina means I'm pretty acquainted with Charlotte's airport. Unfortunately, CLT doesn't have the best reputation. As such, I never fly to my embarkation port on the day of the ship's departure.
Instead of relying on luck and hoping my flight departs on time, I prefer to fly out the night before. This way, I can have a relaxing embarkation morning that isn't plagued with anxiety over whether I'll make the ship.
Even if you think your flight arrives early enough, you must account for the time it will take to deplane, collect your luggage, and drive to the terminal.
Read more: The costly cruising mistake newbies make planning their first cruise
In places like Fort Lauderdale, where the airport is less than 5 miles from the cruise port, a last-minute flight may be appealing; however, other ports are further from the nearest major airport, such as Port Canaveral, which is about 45 miles from MCO.
I've never regretted purchasing a drink package
For me, cruises are all about convenience. Everything I need, from entertainment to dining, is available under—technically—one roof.
Drink packages are controversial add-ons because of their price. However, I've never regretted purchasing one because the convenience of not worrying about paying for each drink is enough to justify the cost.
Some lines, including Princess, offer bundled fares that include more than a standard drink package. For example, for just $60 per person per day, you can enjoy Wi-Fi access, two casual specialty meals, two fitness classes, a Plus Beverage Package, and additional perks.
You don't have to splurge on the alcoholic drink package, either. On lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival, it's not unreasonable to expect to pay over $80 per day.
For example, last year, I tried out what is arguably Royal Caribbean's least-known drink package. Though it isn't inclusive like the Royal Refreshment or Deluxe Beverage Packages, it lets guests enjoy a certain number of specialty coffee drinks for a fraction of what they'd cost individually.
It was a small investment to make my cruise feel more indulgent without breaking the bank. While the Cafe Select Coffee Card is exclusive to Royal Caribbean, you might consider a soda or other non-alcoholic package.
Read more: I bought the cheapest drink packages on two different cruise lines
Prioritize rest
I used to cruise with the mindset of having to do it all. Now, however, I always recommend factoring in time to rest, whether an afternoon nap or staying onboard one day instead of booking a lengthy shore excursion.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of trying to see and do everything, especially on ships like Wonder of the Seas, but taking time to relax is part of what makes cruise vacations so enjoyable.
For instance, staying onboard for a day allows you to appreciate the amenities of the ship with fewer crowds compared to a busy sea day. Likewise, budgeting in time for an afternoon nap can help you fully enjoy the evening's entertainment line-up.
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Growing up, she traveled frequently with her family and fell in love with cruising after sailing on the Oasis of the Seas during her freshman year of high school. Having sailed on nearly 30 cruises across different lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, and Princess, she loves sharing her insight and expertise on all things cruising!
