Planning

Embarking on a cruise is a fun adventure that promises unforgettable memories and experiences. From the pristine beaches of the Caribbean and Bahamas to the rugged wilderness of Alaska, there are seemingly endless destinations to choose from, making cruising an easily accessible way to explore the world. 

Before you set sail, however, there are some things that you should be aware of in order to make the most of your cruise vacation. Planning ahead will help ensure that you have a smooth journey with no unexpected surprises. 

Amidst all the excitement for your upcoming cruise, you'll have to ensure that you have everything that you'll need while away from home, including toiletries. 

While packing isn't always the most thrilling pre-cruise activity, it is something that must be done. Considering that you'll be at sea and miles away from the nearest drug store, it's even more important that you double (and triple) check that you have everything you'll need. 

Staying in a suite is a vastly different experience compared to choosing a balcony cabin. Likewise, interior rooms aren't the same as balconies. Whether you're used to splurging on some of the best rooms onboard or enjoying a standard verandah, diversifying your stateroom selection comes with a cost. 

When browsing for cruises, the rate that you see likely won't be the amount you end up paying. While there's a lot included in your fare, there are some unavoidable extra charges, including port fees and gratuities. If you're someone who has to stay connected at sea, you will have to pay for Wi-Fi, too. 

Of course, some add-ons aren't necessary, such as specialty dining; however, these experiences can make a cruise much more memorable, if you're willing the shell out the extra money. 

Here are 12 sneaky ways cruise lines get you to spend more money. 

One of the most appealing aspects of a cruise is the overall convenience. During your time onboard, you'll be able to visit multiple destinations without having to worry about hauling your luggage through different airports, train stations, etc. Before you can step foot onboard, though, you'll have to arrange transportation to the cruise port.

It seems as though all eyes have been locked on Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest ship and the largest at sea. While Icon is definitely worth all the hype it has been receiving, sailing onboard this record-breaking ship is going to cost you a pretty penny. 

The Bahamas is a colorful and inviting hot spot for year-round vacation destinations. It's a true gem for tourists coming from all over by cruise ship or plane, exploring the beautiful islands.

The mesmerizing beaches, from the soft sands to the turquoise waters, can make anyone want to return. This history in the Bahamas is rich, and there is so much available to see and explore.

As for entering and leaving with or without a passport, there are varying requirements depending on whether you are traveling via cruise ship or flying to stay at a resort. 

Looking for the best cruise deal and aren't sure where to start? You've come to the right place! 

While your first instinct might be to try and book through the cruise line, other options exist. From third parties to travel agents, each has its own pros and cons. Who doesn't want to save money and potentially score free onboard credit to spend on the ship?

It's important to understand the terms and conditions, though, as some may have less flexible cancellation policies. 

Here are the best ways to book your next cruise. 

While one of the major appeals of booking a cruise vacation is the convenience, there's a lot of planning that goes into it before stepping foot onboard. 

From validating your passport to making travel arrangements, booking pre-cruise add-ons, and completing the online check-in, you're likely to have your cruise in the back of your mind for weeks leading up to the actual sail date. 

Rather than saving important tasks until the last minute, we've created the best pre-cruise planning checklist to ensure that you don't miss any steps!