With the start of a new year, it’s time to start locking in those spring break plans! It will be here before you know it, and there’s no better time to book a cruise than right now.

You might be wondering why now is the best time to book a cruise for 2023? Well, that’s because it’s wave season - the time when cruise lines have some of their biggest sales of the year.

No one wants to think about getting sick on their cruise vacation; in fact, it’s the absolute last thing I want to think about when I am enjoying a mojito on the pool deck.

Especially in a post-pandemic world where we are more aware of potential diseases and illnesses, you might wonder what it’s like using a medical facility on a cruise ship.

What comes to mind when you think of luxury cruise lines? Probably how much they cost! Let me tell you why I think you should still consider a luxury cruise line for your next cruise vacation, and how it might be more reasonable in price than you think. 

One of the greatest things about cruising is that there is a cruise line out there to fit nearly every style, itinerary preference, and budget. 

For 2023, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) continues to offer numerous Alaskan itineraries, with 5 ships in the fleet sailing to this popular northern destination. Sailing spring, summer, and even into fall, there are plenty of unique voyages, that extend to Hawaii or Japan, as well as add-on land-based options. 

When getting ready for a cruise, many people are unsure how much cash to bring. The cruise has been paid for, and most costs have already been purchased through drink and dining packages, and pre-booked shore excursions for days in port. 

So how much money do you need?

The answer to this question varies a lot by person, their travel habits, spending preferences, length of the cruise and destination. 

Do you need to fly to your next cruise port? Did you know that many cruise lines offer the ability to book your airfare directly through them? 

Booking airfare directly through a cruise line can cut back on the stress of travel planning and allow you more time to focus on the fun things about your next cruise vacation! 

Dreaming of a cruise vacation but don’t have a passport or time to your current one renewed? There are a number of great cruise options to consider, which allow you to travel with other forms of identification. In other words, you do not always need a passport to go on a cruise and visit other destinations!

If you’re cruising soon and love listening to music, we recommend starting a cruise playlist.

Carnival Cruise Line is known for having the most fun ships at sea. Attracting a young demographic, the cruise line caters to an upbeat, party-like atmosphere onboard; the fun starts from the minute you wake up! Additionally, you can find the best sailaway parties and nightclubs at sea.

I’ve sailed on four different Carnival cruises in my lifetime. First, I sailed on Carnival Destiny, which is now known as Carnival Sunshine, back in high school with my family. This was a spring break trip with quick stops to Cozumel and Key West from Miami.