Planning any cruise is exciting! From booking fun shore excursions to browsing onboard activities and cruise add-ons, there is so much that goes into making sure you have the perfect vacation. 

If you are brand-new to cruising, you might bypass some fun traditions, one of which being cruise door decorations. 

Today, the cruising industry is constantly striving to be bigger and bolder. Twenty years ago, who would have thought that there would be roller coasters, go-karts, and skydiving simulators at sea? Modern cruise ships are the epitome of a fun family vacation that offers something for everyone. 

What about the ships on the other end? You know, the ones that may lack some of the thrills that make the newest and biggest cruise ships so enticing? 

Packing and planning for a cruise can be the most stressful part of your vacation. As someone who has cruised and traveled extensively, I’m slowly becoming a (self-proclaimed) packing pro - and my latest cruise put those skills to the test.

I’ve taken weeklong cruises with just a carry-on and it’s honestly something I’ve never regretted. In fact, it's pretty rare for me to travel with checked luggage for a cruise. Less luggage to haul around simplifies my cruising experience immensely.

When you are booking a cruise, you will notice that you oftentimes have the option to prepay your gratuities prior to the vacation itself. 

Gratuities are essentially just tips for the cruise staff. The total sum of all the passengers' gratuities are pooled together and divided amongst the ship's crew members, including stateroom attendants, dining and culinary services staff, the guests services team, and others who work behind-the-scenes to make your vacation memorable.  

Amidst all the excitement of embarkation day, you will have to complete the required safety drill. Do not worry, though. It must be done before sail away, so you will still be able to sip on a drink while watching the shore disappear into the horizon. 

While emergencies at sea are rare, the safety, or muster, drill is meant to familiarize you and your travel party with your assigned assembly station and other protocols. It is mandatory for all passengers, even those who have cruised before, as the assigned location will most likely be different on each sailing. 

Last month, I flew to Miami for a 4-night spring break cruise on Celebrity Silhouette with my sister. We spent more than $2,200 on the entire trip. 

Although I’ve been a fan of Royal Caribbean for almost my entire life, I was ready to try something different. Celebrity Cruises is more adult-focused with a modern, trendy and innovative approach to cruising.

When it comes to cruise travel, most prospective guests tend to gravitate towards the newer ships full of new and exciting amenities and the promise of an epic vacation. But what is it like to sail on an older cruise ship? Specifically, what is it like to sail on an over 20 year old Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

Outside of your base cruise fare, there are certain add-ons that you can opt to purchase to enhance your cruising experience. 

You do not need to book spa treatments, once-in-a-lifetime shore excursions, specialty restaurants, or internet packages to have a great cruise. In fact, cruises are some of the most budget-friendly vacations if you elect to utilize everything that is included in your initial fare. 

There is no greater time to start planning your 2024 Alaska cruise vacation than right now! Whether you want a family-friendly Disney Cruise, more upscale experience on a Celebrity Cruises' Edge Class ship, or land based addition with a cruise line sponsored cruisetour, there's no shortage of ships and itineraries to choose from.