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How to Plan a Cruise in 6 Steps

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Whether you’re jonesing for an epic Antarctic holiday or an extended weekend in the Bahamas, cruises can be a good way to let someone else take the reins for your vacation. But planning a cruise can be confusing, especially when there are several types of cruises, destinations and price points.

When planning a cruise, you’ll want to consider a variety factors, especially if you’re dealing with limited time or a tight budget.

Let’s look at how to plan a cruise, from your budget to booking, and what to expect along the way.

1. Establish a budget

The first step in planning a cruise is deciding how much money you want to spend. Costs for a cruise will vary based on a number of things, including:

Cruise line.

Destination.

Cruise length.

Number of guests. 

Onboard spending. 

Offshore excursions.

If price is top-of-mind, consider a budget-friendly cruise line. These cruise lines tend to be less glamorous, and you’ll likely be paying for more optional add-ons, such as drink packages and excursions. But you’ll still find plenty of activities to keep you entertained, no matter who you’re cruising with.

You may find deals for as little as $40 per person per night, not including gratuities or any onboard spending. For example, we found a deal for a four-night cruise from Long Beach, Calif., to Ensenada, Mexico, for $169 per person on Carnival.

On the high end, you’re looking at costs as high as $90,000 per person — though these cruises tend to be much longer (nearly six months!) or feature exotic destinations and itineraries.

For example, a 168-night cruise on luxury cruise line Regent Seven Seas — with dozens of stops in ports around the globe — costs more than $97,000 per person.

Of course, your budget will likely fall somewhere in between these low- and high-end examples. The bottom line is that it’s important to plan for a cruise that fits your budget. With such a wide variety of options, odds are you’ll find a price point that's comfortable for you.

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

2. Decide on cruise length

Once you’ve decided how much money you’re willing to spend, you’ll need to see how much vacation time you have available.

If you live far from a port, be sure to factor in the time it takes to get to and from the departure city. Add that to the length of the cruise, and that's how many vacation days you'll need.

To optimize your time off, you'll probably want to try to leave from the closest port possible. If you're on the East Coast, for example, leaving from Miami would require far less travel time than leaving from L.A.

If you’re taking a week-long vacation, a five-night cruise would give you the time to arrive in the port city the day before departure and then return home without feeling rushed.

» Learn more: Are cruises worth it?

3. Choose a destination

How can you plan for a cruise without giving some thought to the destination? The cruise industry is worth more than 7 billion dollars and includes routes all over the world.

If the number of destinations seems a little overwhelming, remember that you've already narrowed down your options by establishing your budget and cruise length.

Many search engines will allow you to look for cruises using these parameters — in addition to helpful filters like departure port and desired departure date.

Your cruise dates will likely affect your destination options. For example, if you want to depart in February, you likely won’t find any cruises going to Alaska . And booking a Caribbean cruise during hurricane season might result in a rerouted itinerary — or even a canceled cruise — if a hurricane forms in the Atlantic.

» Learn more: How to get the best deal on your next cruise

4. Compare cruise lines

Different cruise lines cater to different clientele. Some are geared toward those who want to travel in luxury, while others are designed for spring-breakers or families.

If you’re looking forward to a quiet getaway in the Caribbean but choose a Carnival cruise in the middle of April (i.e. prime college spring break time), you may not have much fun when the pool party gets going.

Do some research on the demographics each cruise line attracts. For a family-friendly cruise, sailing with Disney or Royal Caribbean might be a good choice. Those looking for a calm, adult-only atmosphere may want to choose an itinerary on Viking Cruises.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

5. Book your cruise

There are several different ways to book a cruise, including reserving directly with the cruise line, using an online travel agency or even working with a travel agent.

Each method has its advantages. Booking through an online agency can save you money. Compared to booking directly through the cruise line, though, it may not be as easy to make changes or cancel your reservation if something comes up. If you book through a travel agent, you have the advantage of being able to arrange your cruise and airfare at the same time.

It’s a good idea to compare cruises across all available platforms, because pricing and special add-ons vary. Last-minute cruises can get you serious discounts, as can stacking cash-back opportunities with shopping portals such as Rakuten .

6. Complete your documentation

Once you’ve booked your cruise, you’ll need to submit some documentation, such as an ID, a health declaration, and a credit card to keep on file.

Most of the time, you can also choose to pre-book activities and excursions, though this may depend on the cruise line you’re sailing with.

You’ll want to find out if you need a passport or any visas for your cruise — this will depend on where your cruise is departing from and where it will stop. Be sure to verify this soon after booking your cruise, as obtaining or renewing a passport can take time.

Planning a cruise recapped

Cruises can be an exciting way to visit multiple destinations in a single trip.

When planning a cruise, you’ll want to decide how much you’re willing to spend, where you want to go and the amount of time you have available.

Aside from that, consider what types of cruises you’d like to go on and the people you want to be around. Once everything is taken care of, all that's left to do is enjoy!

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Home » Cruise Tips » Cruise Planning » Beginner’s Guide to Planning a Cruise

Beginner’s Guide to Planning a Cruise

If you are new to cruising, we outline several cruise tips that we have learned over the years in this Beginner's Guide to Planning a Cruise.

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Are you planning your first cruise vacation? If you are new to cruising, we outline several helpful cruise tips that we have learned over the years in this Beginner’s Guide to Planning a Cruise. We wish we knew these cruise hacks before taking our first cruise close to 15 years ago!

Decide on a Budget

The first thing you must determine when planning a cruise is your travel budget. How much are you willing to spend in total for all aspects of your cruise vacation? This includes travel to and from the cruise port, the actual cruise itself, and activities while ashore in ports of call.

You have probably seen the cruise line advertisements for cruises as low as $49 a day per person. If it seems like it is too good of a deal to be true, then it probably is!

In all honesty, cruising is one of the best vacation values out there. Compared to other forms of travel, your fare does cover quite a bit. You will have access to several dining venues and food options. There will also be a plethora of activities, onboard amenities, entertainment, and fun during your cruise vacation.

However,  not everything is included in the price of a cruise . Some of the extras that you will need to account for in your budget are port taxes and fees as well as gratuities .

If you are new to cruising, you might not realize that other items like WiFi, alcoholic (and some non-alcoholic) beverages , specialty dining, spa services, and shore excursions will all cost extra money.

So, if you plan on enjoying any of these add-ons, be sure to budget accordingly.

Determine a Cruise Destination

With your budget firmly in place, now you can consider where you want to travel during your cruise vacation. With more and more regions of the world now accessible by cruise ship, your options keep growing.

Likely, you will choose to visit one of these top cruise destinations . The Caribbean and Bahamas are the most popular locations. A variety of ships from all the major cruise lines sail in these regions.

When planning a cruise, you should keep in mind that pricing does vary based on cruise destination and duration.

For instance, a 7-night cruise to Alaska will certainly cost more than a similar trip to the Caribbean or Mexican Riviera . While a 3-day weekend cruise will come in at a cheaper price point than a week-long vacation.

Further, some cruise destinations like much of Europe, Bermuda, Canada/New England, and Alaska are seasonal. This means that cruise ships only visit these locations certain times of the year. So, you will need to plan your vacation time accordingly if you have your heart set on one of these destinations.

With that said, regardless of whether your cruise destination is seasonal or year-round, the price will vary depending on the time of year. The most expensive times will be the summer, school breaks, and holidays.

For seasonal ports, early or late in the season will be the cheapest. For the Caribbean, January and late August through early October tend to be some of the  cheapest times of year to take a cruise to this region.

Pick the Right Cruise Line and Ship

With over 350 ocean cruise ships, there are plenty of choices when planning a cruise.

One of the biggest cruise mistakes you can make is picking the wrong cruise line/ship for your vacation. Each cruise line offers a slightly different style and approach to cruising. While most cruise lines appeal to both  families  and couples, certain travelers do have their preferences.

Brands like  Carnival Cruise Line ,  Norwegian Cruise Line , and  Royal Caribbean  offer the most diversity for multi-generational groups. These cruise lines all have similar inclusions with some of the best entertainment options and onboard amenities.

While luxury brands like  Viking Cruises  might cost a bit more, but they provide a more all-inclusive cruise experience.

There is truly no single best cruise line.

Truthfully, it all depends on what your travel party wants out of their cruise vacation. Even within brands, there are a variety of ships. Some ships offer the bells and whistles like water slides, ropes courses, laser tag, and Broadway entertainment, but not all ships do.

Keep in mind that the newest and most innovative ships will likely be the most expensive options.

Thus, you need to know what is included in the cruise fare for each cruise line and the onboard offerings on the ships. This is key to help you decide which brand and ship is right for you.

Understand Cruise Pricing

Cruise fares fluctuate considerably depending on a few factors. Pricing can range widely from a few hundred dollars per person to several thousand dollars per person. The cruise line, ship, itinerary, region of the world, and time of year will all weigh heavily on pricing. 

Generally speaking though, all cruises are priced in the same manner. The advertised price on the cruise line’s website is for the lowest cabin category based on double occupancy.

It is also for the cheapest time of year.

This advertised rate is typically priced per person prior to taxes and fees. These prices may increase based on which week you select for your vacation. They will also increase if you want a better room location or category.

Unless otherwise stated, this base fare does not include any additional “perks” for most major cruise lines. Celebrity Cruises is the exception, as this brand’s new pricing model is “always included”. This means that the base fare for all sailings include a classic beverage package, basic WiFi, and gratuities.

While these perks are not included for most major brands, the cruise lines do often run sales and promotions.

For instance, with Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea promotion, you could score 2 to 5 perks for “free” when booking. Even if your receive these perks for free, you will still be responsible for the 20% service charge on drink packages and dining plans.

Other popular promotions include kids sail free, BOGO 50% guests, free room upgrades, and more.

Decide on a Cabin Type

Virtually all cruise ships across all brands offer a wide variety of accommodations. Make sure you understand the inclusions (and size) of the different stateroom categories. This will ensure you pick the right setup for you and your family. 

Along with your typical inside, outside/ocean view, and balcony rooms, there are other classes of staterooms that come with extra privileges. These classes vary by cruise line.

Some brands like Norwegian Cruise Line offer a “ship within a ship” concept, the Haven, which provides a true VIP experience. Celebrity Cruises offers Aqua Class cabins which include unlimited access to the Thermal Suite and an exclusive restaurant.

Royal Caribbean offers different levels of suites with various perks. Some of these perks include priority check-in, reserved seating in the theater, a dedicated restaurant and lounge, and even your own personal Royal Genie.

Catering to families, Carnival Cruise Line offers Family Harbor staterooms. These rooms include family-friendly perks and even one free evening of babysitting service.

Guaranteed cabins are another option. When booking one of these rooms, you will be locked into a cabin from your selected category. However, you will not receive an exact cabin number/location until your final boarding documents arrive.

While you don’t get to choose your exact room, there are benefits to this stateroom option. It will be the cheapest price for the given cabin category, and there is even the potential for an upgrade .

Learn How to Save Money Planning a Cruise

When planning a cruise, you will certainly want to save as much money as possible. We have already discussed some ways to save money like cruising during “off-peak” times of year, taking advantage of cruise line sales and promotions, and booking a guaranteed cabin.

Still, there are even more ways to maximize your vacation funds.

If you choose to sail from a nearby cruise port, you can alleviate airfare and other travel related expenses. Booking a cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas will usually be cheaper than other regions of the world.

The same goes for cruises on older ships that might not have as many amenities.

Further, you can take advantage of your loyal status with a cruise line or reward points from credit cards. Many cruise lines offer special rates and discounts for loyal cruisers.

Many cruise lines also now have their own credit cards.  Royal Caribbean ,  Norwegian Cruise Line , and  Carnival Cruise Line  all offer different programs that let you earn points towards cruise discounts, onboard credit, and even free cruises. 

Understand the Restrictions to Cruising in 2021

If you are new to cruising or even if you have cruised before, you need to be aware that cruising will look quite a bit different, at least initially, when ships start sailing again in 2021.

This will certainly impact planning a cruise.

With the CDC’s framework provided in the Conditional Sail Order , there will be several new measures implemented by the cruise lines to ensure health and safety of guests and crew.

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line outlined many of these protocols in its Healthy Sail Panel . MSC Cruises is already sailing in Europe with its own Health and Safety Protocol .

Additionally, Royal Caribbean’s first ship set sail from Singapore in December .

Many of these measures have already become part of our everyday life since the pandemic, including social distancing and the use of face masks. Yes, you will need to wear a mask on a cruise in 2021.

Cruise ships will be sailing at reduced capacity, and COVID testing will be required at embarkation (and likely disembarkation). Further, alterations will be made to dining, entertainment, and onboard activities.

Additionally, the return to cruising will be gradual with not all ships sailing initially. This means there will be less selection of both ships and homeports. Further, cruise ships will only sail cruises of 7 days or less. These itineraries will likely have an emphasis on private destinations . Even at other ports of call, guests will only be allowed off the ship to participate in cruise line-approved shore excursions.

Related Post: When Each Cruise Line Plans to Resume Cruising

If you want the best deal on your cabin, then you need to book early. When planning a cruise, we always recommend booking at least 6 to 12 months out. We tend to book most of our cruise vacations 8+ months or more in advance (timed with sales and promotions).

In general, we have not found the price to get any cheaper over time. On the rare occasion that the price does drop, you can usually get a price adjustment (be sure to read the fine print when booking though).

Booking early will not only secure a lower price, it will also secure a better cabin. Popular cabin categories and locations do fill up quickly especially on newer ships. Prime cabin locations are mid-ship on higher decks.

If you wait too long to book, cabins in the middle of the ship might be sold out. This will leave aft and forward locations (all the way in the back or the front of the ship), which are not the best for those who are prone to seasickness .

Set Up an Online Account

Once you have your cruise reservation, you should set up an account on the cruise line’s website (if you don’t have one already from booking your cruise). Once you are registered, you can view your reservation and plan numerous different onboard activities.

Here, you will be able to keep an eye out for sales on cruise planner items like drink packages, internet, spa services, or shore excursions. You will also be able to make reservations for specialty dining and entertainment if applicable.

More on this below.

Make Reservations

Modern cruise ships boast Broadway-caliber production shows, one of a kind entertainment offerings, specialty dining restaurants, and a host of additional amenities.

On some of the larger ships (mainly from Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line), reservations are required for certain entertainment and onboard activities.

Often times, you can book these reservations pre-cruise. Depending on the cruise line, you can usually make these reservations 90-120 days before your sailing. The popular shows and times do fill-up quickly. So, we highly suggest you reserve these as soon as they become available on your cruise line’s online planner.

There are some activities that you can only reserve once onboard the ship like laser tag, go karts, escape rooms, etc. So, we recommend booking these early on embarkation day.

The same goes for dining reservations. Prime dining times fill up quickly. Thus, we highly recommend that you book any specialty restaurants (or the main dining room if your ship does not have traditional seating times) before you board the ship.

If your plans change once onboard, most cruise lines let you modify these reservations without penalty.

Book Shore Excursions

Half of the fun of going on a cruise vacation is exploring new destinations. While at your ports of call, you will want to have a plan which may include  booking some shore excursions . These activities can include city tours, adventure experiences, water based fun, beach breaks, food tours, and plenty of other exciting experiences.

Your cruise line will have a list of different activities at each port of call. You can view these shore excursions in your online cruise planner and will be able to purchase them pre-cruise.

In fact, we highly recommend securing all your shore excursions prior to your trip.

There are several other third party operators and local vendors that provide similar, if not better, tour offerings as well. You might get a more personalized and intimate experience and/or a better price by booking outside the cruise line. (Of note, you will temporarily only be allowed to take cruise line-approved shore excursions when cruising resumes.)

Regardless of with whom you book, you could miss out on some of the fun if you wait too long. These experiences can and do sell out, especially with reduced capacity restrictions.

Purchase Other Add-Ons

Now is the time to book all those extra add-ons that did not come as part of your cruise fare.

Many add-on items like drink packages can be purchased pre-cruise on the cruise line’s website. Using the cruise planner, you can often pre-purchase these items at a reduced cost. For instance, Carnival Cruise Line offers a 10% discount off onboard prices for its  Cheers drink package .

Many cruise lines also run promotions and sales with anywhere from 20-40% off cruise planner items like shore excursions, specialty dinners, WiFi packages , and more.

So, once you have a cruise booked, keep an eye out for these special deals.

Of course, you will want to weigh the pros and cons for purchasing a drink package to determine if one is right for you. If you decide not to book these items pre-cruise, you can still do so once you board the ship (subject to availability).

Plan to Fly a Day Early

Thinking about taking the first flight of the day on the morning of your cruise?

Well, we think you should reconsider.

One of the biggest cruise mistakes you can make is not appropriately arranging transportation to and from the cruise ship. Remember, the ship is going to leave with or without you, so it is up to you to make sure you are onboard before sail away.

One of our recommendations for cruisers who do not live within driving distance of the cruise port has always been to arrive a day early. This will help to alleviate any stress surrounding flight delays, cancellations, missed connecters, etc. This is especially true if you are flying in the winter from locations where snow and ice might impact your travels.

We always fly a day early and secure a pre-cruise hotel stay. This ensures that we get a good night’s sleep and are well rested for embarkation day. No one wants to start off a cruise vacation feeling tired or jet-lagged.

Lastly, you will also want to arrange transportation from the hotel to the cruise port (or the airport if you are flying the day of the cruise against our advice). Some hotels do offer shuttle service to the cruise terminal; however, we find it to be most convenient to just take an Uber or Lyft to the port.

Pack Appropriately

When packing for a cruise, you will need to consider your cruise destination.

For warm weather destinations , you will want to pack clothing items that are comfortable, lightweight, and multi-purpose. For cooler weather destinations , layers and rain gear are essential! You will want to be prepared for rain and temperature swings on any given day.

Of course, you should also consider how you are going to be spending your days ashore. If you have shore excursions planned, you will want to pack outfits to fit those requirements, especially the proper footwear.

Now more than ever, you will want to avoid getting sick on your vacation . Hence, you can never have enough hand sanitizer.

In 2021, you might also want to pack some disinfectant wipes and/or Lysol disinfectant spray to sanitize your cabin and other high traffic touchpoints.

Besides necessary travel documents, we have accumulated a list of “other” items over the years that we find essential for a cruise to any destination. Some of these  common household items include magnets, an over the door shoe organizer, and Ziploc bags.

While things like weapons and drugs are prohibited on a cruise , travelers might not be aware that other items are also not allowed. For instance, clothes irons and steamers are forbidden on all cruise lines. This is why we always pack plenty of Downy Wrinkle Release.

Additionally, traditional surge protectors are not allowed on cruise ships. Though, you can opt for a  cruise-approved one .

Download the Cruise Line App

Cruise lines are shifting to more digital approaches with smartphone apps that can perform various functions to enhance the cruising experience.

Now, most cruise lines offer an onboard app that is complimentary.

You can use this app without purchasing a cruise ship WiFi plan to view daily activities, make reservations, and more. 

Newer technologies allow for QR menus, mobile ordering, digital muster drills, and other contactless options.

On some newer ships, guests even have the ability to use their smartphones to enter their cabins and control the temperature and lights in theirs staterooms!

Don’t waste your time or money downloading cruise line apps once at sea. You should do this before embarkation.

Even if you purchase an internet package, connectivity and speeds will vary based on the cruise line, the ship’s infrastructure, the type of plan you purchase, and your geographical location. So, there is no guarantee that you will be able to download these apps using cruise ship WiFi.

Complete Online Check-In

When preparing for your cruise, you must remember to do the online check-in at home. It takes a few minutes and is simple to complete.

For the most part, you can fill out this required paperwork up to three days before embarkation. This process usually requires some basic information about your travel party, as well as setup of an account for onboard spending.

The check-in process will assign you a boarding time to help ease the flow of passengers getting on the ship. This is even more crucial now in the COVID-19 cruising era to allow for social distancing in the cruise terminal. Thus, you should complete this check-in sooner rather than later.

By completing the online check-in and downloading the cruise line’s app prior to embarkation, you will avoid unnecessary obstacles that could occur if you show up to the port without completing this process.

Be Sure to Take Travel Docs and Passports to the Cruise Terminal

While we have always arrived to the cruise terminal early in the past, guests will now need to follow check-in instructions and assigned boarding times to ensure social distancing.

Also, be sure to take all necessary travel documentation and  your passport with you to the cruise terminal. This information should be readily accessible in a carry-on bag.

We always recommend having a passport for your cruise. Although, one is not required for U.S. citizens who sail on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port).

Technically, U.S. citizens can cruise to Alaska, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada/New England, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, and Hawaii without a passport.

However, just because you do not need a passport to go on the cruise, it doesn’t mean that you might not need one to enter one or more of the ports of call during your trip. Further, if you miss the ship in a port of call or need to unexpectedly leave the ship, a passport would be required to leave or re-enter the U.S. by air.

Pack Essentials in a Carry-On fo

Cruisers should be aware that luggage will not arrive to their staterooms until later in the afternoon on embarkation day. This means that you should pack all your essential items in a carry-on, so you will have immediate access to them.

This includes travel docs, smartphones, credit cards, cash, and any other valuables. You should also pack all medications, suntan lotion, and bathing suits in your carry-on bag.

In the event of lost or delayed luggage, many cruisers also recommend packing a change of clothes and any essential toiletries in your cruise carry-on.

Most cruise lines allow passengers to take two 750 ml bottles of wine per stateroom onboard the ship. If you plan on taking these items with you, they should also be packed in a carry-on bag. You should not stow these items in the luggage that you leave with the pier-side porter. This could result in your bags being flagged by security.

Planning a Cruise: Embarkation Day

Embarkation day is always the best day of a cruise! Though, it can also be a bit stressful for first time cruisers.

Once cruising resumes, it will be more important than ever to follow the instructions from the cruise line regarding boarding procedures to ensure a smooth embarkation process.

Once onboard the ship, there are a few things that you should complete . Since your room won’t be ready for a few hours, use this time to tie up loose ends like making any remaining reservations and signing your children up for the kids club.

We also recommend taking some time to familiarize yourself with the layout of the ship and where popular amenities and venues are located.

Another one of the first things cruisers should do on embarkation day is to place their cell phones in airplane mode . Once your cruise ship sails away from the port, you will begin to incur a barrage of roaming fees for data usage even if you aren’t actively using your phone.

Remember, you can still use the cruise line’s app and the ship’s WiFi while you are in airplane mode.

Lastly, you will want to ensure that you attend Muster Drill. Muster Drill is a mandatory maritime safety exercise conducted by all cruise lines usually prior to leaving the homeport. During this drill, safety information is provided to all guests in the event of an emergency. This includes the proper way to don a lifejacket, escape routes, and lifeboat locations.

Muster drills will likely shift to digital drills in 2021 to reduce crowding in light of the current pandemic.

Don’t Book an Early Flight Home on Disembarkation Day

No one likes when a cruise is about to end. The dreaded last morning of your cruise is probably the worst day of your vacation, but unfortunately, you will need to leave the ship at some point. 

To ensure a  stress free disembarkation , be sure to settle your account before you attempt to leave the ship. We also recommend completing self-checkout if you are able to manage your own luggage off the ship.

Further, if you are flying home, make sure you don’t book a flight that is too early.

When you are allowed to disembark the ship at the end of your cruise varies by the cruise line. It can also be impacted by weather, ship technical difficulties, receiving clearance from port customs, and a plethora of other reasons.

Given the CDC’s requirements, COVID testing at disembarkation will likely also impact this time table.

The cruise lines recommend that passengers avoid booking any flight before noon time. While we have booked earlier flights on some occasions, we generally agree. We would much rather be too early sitting in an airport than having the headache of rescheduling missed flights.

Do you have any tips to add to this Beginner’s Guide to Planning a Cruise? What do you wish you knew before taking your first cruise? Drop us an anchor below to help fellow cruisers plan their perfect cruise vacations.

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

Cruising is easy. Or so cruisers will tell you.

For starters, you only have to unpack once, even as you travel from place to place. You also don't have to go hunting for a restaurant every night. There usually are a bunch just steps away from your cabin with tables waiting for you. You'll also have no trouble finding entertainment.

But even in its simplicity, cruising still can be daunting for a first-timer. What should you bring? What should you plan on doing in ports? What is the best way to book?

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

As the head of The Points Guy's cruise content team , I get these sorts of questions all the time.

This brings me to the tips below. If you've read this far, you are likely a first-time cruiser looking for advice for an upcoming trip, and that's exactly what this story is meant to offer. It contains my list of 21 ways to make your first sailing go more smoothly.

It's a list drawn not just from my own experience over 20-plus years of cruising but also the observations of more than 100 cruising fans who shared their tips with TPG in a lively conversation on the topic at the TPG Lounge on Facebook. (If you're not a member yet, we highly encourage you to join.)

Arrive at your departure port a day ahead of schedule

If you only follow one piece of advice in this story, it should be this one. It is the only way to ensure you won't miss your ship — something that happens to cruisers more often than you would think.

Many cruises depart in the afternoon, so it might seem just fine to fly or drive to a port on the morning of departure. But all it takes is a moderate flight delay or a pile-up on the highway to upset those plans. If you're delayed in your arrival at the port, the ship will not wait for you.

If you're traveling overseas for a cruise, we recommend traveling to the port two or even three days in advance. This isn't just so you don't miss the ship. It's also so you have some time to recover from jet lag. European cruises, in particular, can be port-intensive, with lots of touring, so you want to be refreshed and ready to hit the ground running right after the cruise begins.

Related: What happens if you miss your cruise ship

Pack your bathing suit in your carry-on

When you first arrive at a ship, before you even get on board, you'll likely be greeted by porters who will whisk away your luggage. It will be delivered to your room later in the day. This is a great convenience, as there's no need to haul your bags through the entire check-in progress. But it also means you might not have access to your luggage for many hours on your first day on board.

Be sure to pack anything you think you might need for these first hours of your cruise in your carry-on bag. This means things like medication, for sure, and a phone charger, but also a bathing suit, hat, sunscreen and other items that will let you head straight to the pool deck to start the fun.

Related: Use this packing list for your next cruise

Don't overpack

Use this strategy when packing for a cruise: Throw all the clothes you think you'll need on a cruise in a pile, and then take away half of them. You won't need them. Trust us.

Most cruising these days is casual, and you really only need a few outfits to rotate through a voyage. If things get dirty, it's no problem. Many ships have launderettes on cabin decks where you can run a load or two of laundry every few days. If not, you can send laundry out to be cleaned on board. It'll usually come back in a day or two.

The extra cost of doing a few loads of laundry on a ship is a small price to pay for the freedom of not having to lug a giant suitcase around as you travel to and from your ship. Plus, you'll want to save room in your suitcase for all the little treasures you're going to find along the way.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry service

Bring your own drinks on board

Many first-time cruisers assume they can't bring their own drinks on board a ship. But many lines will allow this, usually with some limits. It's one way to save money when cruising, as drink prices on ships can be high.

Among the lines that will allow you to be your own bartender is Disney Cruise Line . Adults can bring up to two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne or six beers onto Disney ships at the start of a cruise and at every port of call. Note that these beverages must be packed in carry-on bags. At Royal Caribbean , the bring-your-own allowance is two bottles of wine or Champagne per cabin at boarding, plus up to a dozen standard cans, bottles or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks.

One caveat: Many lines levy a "corkage fee" if you want to bring your wine into an onboard restaurant. Be sure to read the rules for your line before you bring any drinks on board.

Related: Are drinks packages on cruise ships worth it? A line-by-line guide

Bring extra toiletries

Yes, you'll be able to find sunscreen, aspirin and Band-Aids on a cruise ship. But it'll cost you. Cruise lines know you're a captive audience and price their shipboard stores accordingly.

I have a small "go bag" of over-the-counter medicines that I throw into my suitcase for every cruise that contains everything from cold medicine to seasickness pills. I rarely use any of it. But I also never get hit with a crazy toiletries charge.

While we're on the topic of sundries, don't forget extra batteries for your camera if you are bringing one.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

Bring these six other things, too

In addition to extra toiletries, cruising regulars often bring Clorox wipes or something similar to wipe down surfaces in their cabin upon arrival (and to bring along on shore excursions). I admit, I've never done this, though I know I should — if only to wipe off the remote control for the cabin TV.

Many cruisers also won't head to a ship without room freshener, a foldable shoe rack (which they hang in the cabin bathroom to store toiletries), a highlighter (to highlight activities on the daily planner) and a lanyard (to hold their cabin key card). I am, of course, too cool to ever put a key card lanyard around my neck, which means I lose my card once or twice on every trip. They always give me a new one at the front desk. My cruise team colleague Ashley Kosciolek also escews landyard-wearing on ships, but that didn't stop her from writing this wonderful guide to the coolest cruise lanyards around .

Some cruisers also swear by bringing magnets to ships to affix dinner invitations, excursion tickets and other important papers to their cabin walls. Walls on ships often are made with metal (even if they look like wood, thanks to faux wood veneers) and will hold a magnet. Some cruisers even bring magnets with hooks so they can hang up clothes and other items on their walls.

Related: 20 things you should bring on every cruise — including a roll of duct tape

Skip the buffet on your first day on board

There's nothing more jammed than a cruise ship buffet on embarkation day. Everybody boarding heads straight up to it. To avoid the first-day buffet crowds, head to whatever secondary dining option is available. Sometimes, a ship will open one of its table-served eateries for lunch on embarkation day. It'll likely be much less crowded than the buffet.

Research ports in advance

There are some types of vacations — a beach trip, for instance — where you don't have to do much advance research. You just sort of show up. Most cruises aren't this way — at least if you want to get the most out of them. At the heart of most cruises are port calls that, in many cases, are very short — often just a few hours. You want to have a plan for what to do in these ports or you'll miss out on a big part of the cruising experience.

Once you know what ports you'll be visiting, research them as much as you can at travel sites such as The Points Guy. Here at TPG, we're starting to build out a series of home port and destination port guides for everywhere from PortMiami to Bora Bora .

Related: The ultimate guide to Caribbean cruising

Join a Facebook group for your line

Another great place to get ideas for what to do in ports and on ships — and what to bring on a cruise, for that matter — are the many private Facebook groups dedicated to particular lines. I belong to a number of them, including the Royal Caribbean Cruises group, the COPs (Cruisers Opinion Page) group and the Holland America Line Fans group. You'll find thousands of cruise fans at these pages who often are more than willing to answer questions about their favorite line, its ships, its itineraries and the destinations on the itineraries. I've met some wonderful people in these groups, some of whom have become my longtime friends on Facebook.

Sign up for private tours

Booking a shore excursion directly through your cruise line is easy. You just check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it's all arranged. But booking tours through your line isn't the only option, and it's not always the best option. In many cases, you can save a lot of money — and get a better touring experience — by booking shore excursions through independent tour operators in ports or a tour booking service such as Viator or ToursbyLocals .

Often, independent tours will be much more intimate than the tours offered directly through cruise lines. They might go to the same sites but in a small van instead of a big motorcoach. You might have just six or eight other people on a tour with you instead of nearly 40. If your group is big enough, you might even be able to book a private tour with an independent tour operator.

Related: The ultimate TPG guide to shore excursions

Independent tours also can take you to places that the cruise line-organized tours don't. Plus, they often come with excellent service. ToursByLocals has staff on hand around-the-clock to respond to questions, and — for those worried about missing your ship — they offer a return-to-ship guarantee with every tour.

Sign up for activities in advance or soon after boarding

Some lines will let you sign up for shows, tours and other activities (including meals at specialty restaurants) in advance of sailing using online portals. If you want to be sure that you get a seat for a specific show on a specific night, or a specific tour or restaurant reservation time, it's a good idea to do this. It's not uncommon with some ships to find that some shows, tours and restaurant reservation times book up in advance.

If you don't sign up for activities in advance, a backup strategy is to do so just after you board a vessel. That said, whether you need to race to sign up for activities at the start of a voyage depends a lot on which ship you are on. I am more careful about signing up for a lot of things in advance when I am sailing on a giant ship such as Royal Caribbean's record-breaking Wonder of the Seas where there are thousands of other passengers competing for the choicest reservations.

Related: 12 giant ships that are the best for fun

Don't feel like you have to do it all

While we're on the topic of signing up for activities, note that it's OK if you miss a few things. You don't have to do it all. In fact, you should force yourself to try to not do it all. Remember, you're on vacation. Relax. Take some downtime. Sit on your balcony, if you have one, and just stare out at the ocean for a couple of hours. You won't regret it.

Always carry the ship's contact information with you

When going ashore, always bring the ship's contact information with you. Those details are usually printed in the newsletter that's delivered to your cabin each night. If something goes wrong when you're away from the ship, you'll want to get in contact with the cruise line right away.

Keep your phone in airplane mode

Some of the biggest cruise ship horror stories you'll find on the internet are tales of cruising newbies who racked up thousands of dollars in cellphone charges while on ships. This can happen when you leave your phone turned on and, say, watch videos on the internet. Many phone plans — even international plans — do not include talking, texting and data on cruise ships, and you'll pay exorbitant roaming rates for such services that will show up weeks later on your phone bill.

There are ways to make calls and access the internet from ships without spending a boatload of money. You can buy a Wi-Fi package, for instance, that will let you make FaceTime calls and stream videos (on some ships) over Wi-Fi without using phone data.

Some phone companies have cruise-specific plans you can buy in advance of a voyage. But I personally never go that route. I keep it simple. I just put my phone in airplane mode the moment I step on board a ship and never switch it back on. I then turn on the phone's Wi-Fi, buy a Wi-Fi package and do all my calling, texting and internet surfing over Wi-Fi. That way, there's no way that I can be surprised by an unexpected charge.

Download the cruise app

A growing number of lines now have apps that you can download to your smartphone in advance of sailing. The apps vary in what they offer, but many will show you a daily list of activities and all of the things that you have reserved. Many also will let you make restaurant reservations and book shore excursions and other activities, and a few will let you order drinks and other items to wherever you happen to be standing. That's pretty cool, right? The best part: The apps will work on board even if you don't pay for a Wi-Fi package.

Related: This cruise app lets you order pizza anywhere on board

Use a travel agent to book

Given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you arrange things. A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. The agent also can help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

In addition, travel agents often can you extra onboard credit and other perks that you might not be able to get by booking directly with a line.

Related: Why you should always use a travel agent to book a cruise

Consider travel insurance

It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising — or any sort of travel. We hate to even bring it up, but you might need to cancel your cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness. Or, maybe you'll fall ill during the cruise and need emergency medical attention. Maybe your flight to your ship gets canceled and you miss the vessel's departure. These sorts of things can happen to cruisers, and they're all the sort of situations where you might benefit from having travel insurance. Here's a comparison of the top travel insurance providers and information about Cancel for Any Reason add-ons .

Related: The TPG guide to travel insurance for cruises

Don't book a cabin near an elevator

Not every cabin on a ship is created equal. When choosing a room on your first cruise, you might want to stay away from those near elevators and just above nightclubs and other late-night venues. They can sometimes be noisy. Cabins just below the pool deck and near the anchor also can be problematic as well as cabins near casinos.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

Use a points card for onboard spending

You saw this one coming, no? Given TPG's origins as a points and miles website , we'd be remiss if we didn't remind you to maximize your credit card points while making purchases on ships. The way to do this is to tie a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases to your onboard account. This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on dining.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Don't tip twice for drinks and spa treatments

Most cruise ships now automatically add a gratuity to bar bills, often in the amount of 18% to 20% of the total. Such automatic gratuities also are becoming more common in ship spas. But many first-time cruisers don't know this and write in a hefty tip at the "additional tip" line on bills at cruise ship bars and spas. Be sure to ask if a gratuity already has been included before adding another 15% or 20% to the total. Otherwise, you may end up tipping twice.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on a cruise ship

Use points to get to your cruise

Using points and miles to pay for a cruise doesn't always make sense , as it often requires a huge number of them to secure a cabin. But that doesn't mean you can't save big time by booking your flights to and from a ship using points and miles .

You'll find plenty of stories here at The Points Guy about how to, say, pay the equivalent of $1,330 in points for a flight that cost $16,000 , or book a $27,000 around-the-world trip for just $168 in out-of-pocket costs . Scroll around a little, and you may never pay cash for a flight to a cruise ship again.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

Planning Your First Cruise: The Ultimate Tips Guide

The first time that my family went on a cruise we were so excited, but there are so many things I wish I’d known before we went! A guide or a few tips could have really helped with planning.

I brought way too many things and didn’t wear half of what was packed in that huge suitcase (especially shoes)! The cruise was still amazing and one of our fondest memories, but I changed things up and streamlined my preparations on each subsequent cruise experience.

So, are you ready for an unforgettable cruise vacation? Make your bon voyage dreams a reality with the perfect getaway by researching and being ahead of the game!

You may have a lot of questions regarding your first cruise, and it can be challenging to know what’s in store – especially if this is the first time you’ve experienced this type of vacation. We’ve got you covered!

• First Cruise Planning Tips:

Our Travel Makes Me Happy team created this guide to help you plan your first cruise vacation! We’ll walk you through the whole process, from researching different cruise lines, what you should pack (and leave at home), and fun things you can experience during your trip.

Table of contents

Cruise pre-planning, decide on a destination and port to embark on your cruise voyage, tips to pick a cruise line and ship, what size stateroom should you choose, balcony staterooms, interior staterooms, ocean view staterooms, suites and other staterooms, know what’s included in your fare, here are some of our top pics for cruise deals from our partners:, early dining vs. late dining on your cruise, muster safety drill, cabin unpacking tip, excursions through the cruise line, get back to the ship before “all aboard” time, medications, portable back up battery charge and data, magnetic hooks, formal attire, lightweight sweater, passport or birth certificate, embarkation day, after boarding your cruise, navigating the ship, scheduling your time onboard, see a musical or comedy show, mini golf and sports deck, skyride, north star, roller coasters, bumper cars, surfing, rock climbing, cruise spa access, tipping extra for great service onboard, debarkation day, final thoughts on first-time cruise planning guide and tips, keep reading for more great travel articles.

The best advice I can give anyone taking their first cruise is to research, plan, and pack accordingly. The better you can plan, the better off you will be!

You don’t want to have any last-minute vacation anxiety or inconveniences because you forgot something important. It’s best to learn the process particular to the cruise line that you choose so that there are no surprises.

For finding the best flights using Skyscanner’s flight search tool will let you compare. They show flight prices of many travel websites so you can choose the cheapest and best one.

Deciding on your destination whether your ideal cruise is fun in the Caribbean sun, a grand European itinerary, or a multi-country River Cruise is an important step in planning.

It may be that you go with an itinerary available from ships in your nearest home port. For us, it is the Port of New Orleans so we often cruise on one of the lines that leave from there and decide on the destination based on what is offered at our home port.

You may also use budget considerations or time off allowances to guide your cruise choice.

The great thing about cruising from a port close to home is that you dont have the added expense of flights and extended days off from work.

We still usually stay in a hotel the night before close to the cruise terminal just to make it easier to get there on the morning of the cruise.

Check out the itineraries on Celebrity Cruises ! They have great Alaska and Caribbean cruise options!

Before booking your voyage, it’s important to research the different cruise lines and ships available. Read past passenger reviews, look at ships’ photos, and compare prices. This will help you find the best cruise line and ship for your budget and needs.

Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean offer the most varied experiences, especially for multi-generational families. If you are looking for an adult-oriented feel, Virgin offers some great itineraries with many leaving out of Florida ports.

Disney is also a great cruise line for families, but their unique experiences sometimes come with a price tag to match. For river cruises, Viking is top notch in the cruise experience.

Tip: We love decorating our cabin door with colorful magnets to help us find it quickly and feel festive!

Decide on a Stateroom to Book

Cruise ships come in different sizes and offer a variety of stateroom types and sizes.

You can choose the accommodation that best suits your needs, from rooms with balconies to interior staterooms.

Some regular staterooms also sleep up to 5 people (it varies by line), but that would be really tight for adults (in our opinion). You may not be in the room except for sleeping, but trying to get ready in the tiny cruise ship bathrooms would be a nightmare for us.

Most staterooms are smaller than a hotel room and the bathrooms are tiny. They do offer great storage space in most of them with closets, shelves, and drawers.

If you want more privacy or to spend time outside, then balcony rooms are ideal. A balcony also gives you a more private way to enjoy the view without having to go up to the public area decks.

When we took an Alaska cruise, a balcony cabin made such a difference in how much we enjoyed the cruise! It is really nice to sit out on your balcony and have coffee each morning or relax at night and watch the stars.

Interior staterooms offer great value for couples or families who wish to keep their budget to a minimum. Keep in mind that they don’t have windows, so it can get dark and feel claustrophobic.

The upside is that if you like it really dark to sleep an interior room is great. When we cruised with our kids we would get a balcony cabin and we’d get the kids an interior room across the hall and it was a great way to save money for us.

Some cruise ships even have virtual windows or portholes to make it less claustrophobic and give the illusion of a window.

Ocean View Staterooms are usually a little less expensive than balcony rooms, but if the price difference is not that great I’d choose a balcony every time.

Ocean View rooms offer a window so that you can see the ocean and get some light in the room.

Suites are a luxe option if your budget allows. They offer larger bathrooms and balconies usually.

The rooms also have larger seating areas and some really posh ones have amazing amenities and come with a butler to cater to your every need.

Spa Staterooms are another option on some ships and offer daily entry into the spa to enjoy the thermal pool, saunas, and other offerings (it will vary by ship).

Spa treatments are extra, of course.

We loved the spa balcony that we had on the NCL Breakaway and started each day with a dip in the thermal pool and visit to the salt therapy room.

When you book a cruise, most of your meals and entertainment are usually included in the fare.

A few exceptions include shore excursions, spa treatments, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and upgrades.

When planning your trip, research what will be included in your fare and budget accordingly.

Some cruise lines such as Viking offer a more inclusive experience with excursions and other things included in the basic fare. Virgin also does this to an extent.

It’s best to research exactly what is included in what you are paying because you don’t want to be hit with a huge alcohol bill at the end of the cruise.

In addition to the fare you will be charged a daily gratuities amount (it varies by line).

Find the Best Deal for Your Cruise

Do some research to find the best cruise deals.

We also have a Free Easy Travel Budget Calculator to help you find out how much you’ll need for your trip!

Also, don’t forget good travel insurance to protect your cruise investment! Don’t cruise without coverage – get the best travel insurance with Travelex!

We are usually early diners so choose the earliest time for the main dining room.

This leaves enough time for shows or activities after dinner for us.

The main shows usually have multiple showings to accomodate early and late diners so it just depends on if you like to eat earlier or not.

If eating in the main dining room (or multiple main dining rooms on some ships) you are assigned the same table number and service crew for each night of the cruise.

“Your time” dining is also an option on most ships so you can eat whenever you are ready instead of rushing to make your set time.

Make sure to check out all of the dining options for the ship that you choose.

On embarkation day (the day you board the ship) there will be a Mandatory safety drill that you and your group will have to attend.

Your muster station is usuallly listed on your sail card and you must check in to your station number area for the safety briefing.

This is to inform you of safety procedures and location of life vests/boats in case of emergency.

** UPDATE ** We just got back from a Carnival Mardi Gras cruise and they had us check in at the station and then “self-muster” in the room with a video so other lines may have moved to this or will soon.

It’s a great idea to unpack and organize on the first day of the cruise after dinner when the luggage has arrived.

Staterooms usually have many options for storage so that you can unpack and organize everything.

You can then place the empty suitcase under the bed or in the closet so that it doesn’t take up floor space.

This will help you be able to find the things that you need without having to go through the suitcases and make the most of the small stateroom space.

If you need some great tags for your cruise, Amazon has these great clear cruise luggage tag holders that work great!

Tips to Book an Amazing Cruise Excursion on Your First Cruise

Look into what is available in each port of call and ensure that it fits within your time frame and activity level.

If there is something special you want to do, make sure to plan for that in advance.

We usually book our excursions well in advance of the cruise, but I know some people like to wait until they are on the ship to book. One drawback of this strategy is that the excursion you really want may be sold out if you wait until you are on the cruise.

Most cruise lines offer shore excursions at each port. These are usually organized activities or tours you can join and explore the local area with other passengers. It’s a great way to get off the beaten path and experience something in the company of fellow cruisers.

The great part about booking and excursion with the ship (not an outside company) is that the ship will not leave you at port if the tour is running late. There are also tour organizers outside of the cruise line that you can book, but make sure the timing works out and read reviews before you book.

If you book your excursion through the cruise line they will deliver an envelope to your stateroom with the tickets or information about what time and where to meet on the day of the excursion.

Many cruise lines also let you off of the ship first if you have an early excursion booked through them so make sure to check.

It’s also a good idea to pay attention to the travel time to and from the excursion too and if it involves a boat ride or long bus ride to get there.

We took an excursion in Cozumel one time that had a half hour ferry ride in rough waters each way that kind of took away from the dream experience I had imagined (I should have been more prepared).

Don’t be a “pier runner”! On almost every cruise we sit on our balcony (if we have one) and watch pier runners feverishly running to try and get back on the ship after or close to “all aboard” time. Some don’t make it.

It happens easily when people are having too much fun at the port bars and lose track of time.

Each evening on a cruise you are usually given a daily calendar of what is going on the next day on the ship. On port days you will be given a guide of the port and what time to be back on the ship.

There will also be announcements over the speaker the morning of the port call so make sure to pay attention to the time you need to be back on the ship because they will leave if you are not back before “all aboard” time (and people will be laughing and cheering you on from their balconies).

**Important Customer Service Tip**

A reader recently alerted us to the fact that if there is an issue with your cruise account or other customer service issue and it is not resolved before leaving the ship it may be difficult to get a quick solution.

She sailed Carnival and was told that there is only email customer service after the cruise as they have done away with the phone c.s. line and her response time was 45 days.

So, if there is any issue it is best to wait at guest services and get it resolved before the cruise is over .

Things to Pack for a Cruise

If you’re going somewhere with warm weather, pack apparel that feels comfortable and is lightweight as well as multi-functional.

For colder climates, bring layers along with rain gear (if there’s space). It’s sensible to be prepared for changes in temperature or an unexpected shower.

You do not need to pack a beach towel as most cruise lines provide beach towels that can be checked out or are in your stateroom for use on port days.

A lightweight backpack or tote for transporting towels and beachwear for excursions is also great. The soft backpack ones with the strings work really well.

Below is a nice and inexpensive option from Amazon and the best part is that it is easy to pack to bring with you!

There are certain items that you will want to make sure you bring with you on your cruise, such as:

• Sunscreen and bug wipes
• Swimming gear
• Comfortable shoes for walking around the ship
• Sunglasses/hat or both
• Cash for ports. Most cruise lines are cashless, but you will probably need cash for some ports, tipping, etc.
• Outfit for elegant or formal night (or nights) if you choose (it depends on the cruise line), outfits for themed parties like the NCL infamous “glow party”, Carnival Mardi Gras’ 80’s party and of course their “Mardi Gras” party, and other lines have their own version so make sure to read up on it before you cruise.

I recommend bringing basic items like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and a toothbrush.

Cruiselines do have dispensers usually of shampoo/conditioner/body wash, but if you are particular to your favorite bring it if space allows.

It is usually kind of expensive if you have to buy any essentials on the ship so having your own saves money.

Staterooms also usually provide decent hairdryers too so you can save space and leave yours at home.

Remember your medication if you need it at sea! Take a small first-aid kit containing essential medicines such as pain relievers, anti-diarrheal tablets, Benedryl (for those with allergies), and motion sickness medication. If you have to purchase these in the ship gift shop they are usually more expensive.

Combat motion sickness with Sea Bands or motion sickness patches if you are prone to motion sickness to help you feel your best while traveling. However, if you do get seasick guest services will usually have packets of seasick medication that you can get for free or 1-3$.

Being well stocked with basic medications before setting out on your journey will help to guarantee that you have an enjoyable time away from home!

If you’re out at sea, I strongly suggest turning your mobile phone on airplane mode to avoid exorbitant roaming fees.

You’ll likely take many pictures or videos while sailing so the battery will drain very quickly. It’s a good idea to take a portable back up battery charger that will recharge your phone should it go dead with all of the amazing pictures you will be taking!

Make sure you don’t have an unexpected expense due to data charges by activating the airplane mode feature!

You can stay on airplane mode even while on the Ship’s wifi package . Check with your cellular provider to see if they have a cruise package plan or if your plan includes the ports that you will be traveling to.

On a cruise ship, visitors must be conscious of utilizing their space wisely. You want to keep the room in your cabin–most cabins are only 160 square feet!

The metal walls and doors make magnetic hooks a great way to help organize. They provide an efficient way to use your limited area while ensuring everything is easily accessible.

You can also bring magnetic signs to put on the outside of your door. That will make it easy to spot when you are heading back to the cabin at the end of the day.

For most cruises, packing an outfit for the formal or dressy evening is a must-do!

Make sure to pick one that’s elegant yet comfortable. Some itineraries have more than one formal night. So be sure to check with your chosen cruise line/ship and see which nights are “formal”.

Participating in formal nights is not mandatory. It is totally up to you how dressed up or down you get. There are also other restaurants like the buffet that you can visit on that evening if you don’t want to get dressed up.

After cruising for many years we’ve realized that it is not as formal (at least on US sailings) as it was in the past.

Some people still go all out on the formal wear and that’s great.

However, with packing light sometimes I just pack dressy pants and a blouse that can mix and match and my husband will wear a nice button down Hawaiian-style shirt with dressier slacks.

A vacation in the Caribbean might not require much besides your swimsuit, but you may need something cozy and lightweight for warmth during those breezy nights onboard.

Restaurants and cruise ship casinos can quickly become chilly spots. So be sure to tuck away a sweater or pashmina just in case! We usually wear a sweater or light jacket in the auditorium for evening shows because it gets chilly.

Don’t forget your passport (or birth certificate if using that instead)! In an unexpected emergency, you must have a valid passport to board any flight back home from another country.

It’s wise to spare the time and expense for a passport, even if you plan on only taking closed-loop cruises. The sense of security it will provide is worth its weight in gold.

We usually take a photo of our passport so that we have it on port days, but do not take it with us on excursions.

You really only need your ship sign and sail card to get on and off the ship at port.

I know some people insist on having their passport with them at all times, but we just wouldn’t want to lose it.

Most cruise lines will give you a time to show up at the port or you schedule your selected time.

When you arrive you can hand off your larger bags to luggage assistants.

They will make sure your bags are properly tagged (with the printed tags provided at online check-in) and take them away until they show up at your stateroom later in the day.

We usually keep an extra set of clothes in our carry-on bag or tote in case the luggage is late showing up and it is time to go to dinner.

You’ll then line up to go into the port and go through security where they check your passport/birth certificate and boarding paperwork. You then go through the bag check which is similar to airports. Make sure not to bring any prohibited items (check your cruise line website).

M ost cruise lines allow 1 bottle of wine per adult and we usually take advantage of this for having a bottle in the room to sit on the balcony in the evenings with.

Once you are through security, you will be guided to the cruise check-in area and this is where your onboard account is set up, passports/birth certificates checked again, and cruise paperwork.

You are then given a sign and sail card (or it may be called different things on other lines). This card is how you scan into and off of the ship.

NOTE: Sometimes we have received our cards at the stateroom instead of at check-in.

After you have your cards in hand you are given a boarding group and wait until it is called to board the ship. Then the fun begins!

Once you are on the ship many people head to the buffet. We like to see what other eating options are open on embarkation day (it varies by ship) and usually choose another option that is less crowded. Either way, you will not be disappointed because there is a variety of food available.

It is also a great time to wander around and get the feel of the layout of the ship and all that is offered.

Your luggage will show up later in the day (usually before dinner) and the staterooms will be ready at a time designated by the particular ship you are on.

There is a mandatory Muster Drill (mentioned earlier) that you will need to attend (you are given a station area) and check in for before everything else opens and the cruise gets in full-swing.

I t’s a good idea to learn the navigation terms for the sections of the ship such as:

• Forward: The front side onboard interior of the ship
• Aft: The onboard rear side of the ship
• Port side: The left side of the ship if you are facing forward (towards the front of the ship).
• Starboard: The right side of the ship when facing forward

To get the most out of your time onboard, it’s important to schedule some activity for each day of your trip—you don’t want to miss out on anything!

We love to look at the next day’s newsletter schedule after returning to the stateroom each night to see what we are interested in doing the next day.

Cruise ships offer various activities for guests, including spa treatments, fitness classes, dance classes, games, entertainment options, and more.

On larger cruise ships that offer many different shows or activities you have to book a reservation in advance.

Check your online cruise planner for your ship to make sure you don’t need to book a reservation in advance.

We were surprised the first time we sailed on RCL Harmony of the Seas that we had to book everything in advance! The ice skating show was amazing (below pic) and I’m glad we made a reservation.

Things to do on a Cruise

While you’re hanging out on the ship for several days, you may be wondering what’s in store for you and what your entertainment options are.

Here are some unique things you can do on many of the popular cruise lines!

Take in a night at the theater, entirely free of charge! On select Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line ships, you can enjoy iconic musicals like Grease, Mamma Mia, or Jersey Boys.

We love the Broadway-caliber shows on so many of the ships we’ve been on. Get ready to experience the world’s best theaters without leaving the ocean’s waves!

The comedy shows are also a favorite with our crew!

Mini-golf is a fun activity for families and couples aboard cruise ships, so it’s no surprise that you can find courses on Carnival cruises, Royal Caribbean vessels, Norwegian Breakaway, and some of their Breakaway Plus class ships as well as Disney Cruise Line’s Dream and Fantasy!

A first-time cruise can have so many adventurous activities all on the ship! SkyRide® (Carnival Vista class ships) is like pedaling a bicycle.

You’ll never forget it. But unlike biking, how often can you ride around the ship while suspended in mid-air above the vessel and gazing at the azure ocean below? SkyRide offers an experience that’s totally out of this world!

The Larger Carnival ships like Mardi Gras even offers a roller coaster at sea! Some of Disney’s ships also have a coaster.

We loved the RCL Harmony of the Seas giant slides and amusement park area! There was so much to do that we didn’t get to it all.

Some NCL ships that we’ve been on have bumper cars that are a blast!

Most of the ships have rock climbing, some have bowling, basketball courts, and other fun activities! Sea days can be relaxing or exciting with all there is to do.

If you’re looking for some relaxation, then the spa on some cruise ships is the place for you. A great first-time cruise tip is to make time for at least visiting the spa to see what is offered.

With options like saunas, steam rooms, Salt therapy rooms, and thermal tubs available to guests on board ships from Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney, Costa Cruises, and more, you can easily sit back and relax!

One of our favorites is the previously-mentioned NCL Breakaway’s thermal pool and salt room in the spa. They also had heated bed loungers that look out to sea that were amazing!

You can get a day pass that provides entry to the rooms and thermal pools or buy a week pass (if you book a spa cabin it is usually included).

Specific spa services (like massages, facials, etc) are extra, but just visiting the spa and relaxing in the steam rooms is rejuvenating!

I know tipping can be a controversial topic on many of the cruise ship forums, but we always tip our cabin stewards, main dining room wait staff, and many bartenders extra on top of the daily tips that are added to your cruise fare.

It’s a personal choice, but we feel they always go above and beyond.

The amounts vary and also vary by the length of the cruise but on average we tip our cabin steward 20-40$ on the last day of the cruise, wait staff in the main dining room 10-20$, and an extra 1-2$ to the bartenders/coffee shop most times on each order.

We bring cash for the cabin steward and wait staff, but just add an extra 1-2$ here and there on the bill for drinks when we sign for them.

Tipping extra is totally optional! I just thought I’d mention it because I was unsure on our first cruise and some examples would have helped with planning.

At the end of your cruise you will get information in the room the day before about debarkation procedures.

If you choose, you can have your larger bags packed and outside of the stateroom the night before where they will be picked up and will have already gone through customs when you get off the ship.

You can also roll your bags off of the ship yourself and go through customs [ self assist ].

Either way is usually efficient. Having the larger bags picked up the night before just saves you from having to lug so many bags off the ship.

You will be given (or choose) a time to get off of the ship and when your group, floor, etc. is called you can make your way to the waiting area.

You are then called to the gangway to head off of the ship (sad face) and on your way through customs and then home.

I’m usually sad after the cruise ends and ready to book another one!

Taking a cruise for your next vacation can be a gratifying experience that will be amazing for the whole family.

With proper planning and packing beforehand, scheduling activities during your time onboard, and connecting with other passengers along the way, you will have an incredible adventure!

Before you know it you will be a cruise expert with tons of sailings under your belt!

Are you taking your first cruise or are you a seasoned cruiser? Drop us a line and let us know your story!

Bon Voyage!

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11 Expert Cruise Planning Tips

By Elissa Garay

Last updated: November 9th, 2021

• Find a Cruise

Ready to book your dream cruise vacation? Terrific! Now for the hard part: With hundreds of itineraries to choose from, among countless other cruise planning considerations (such as choosing between port vs starboard for your stateroom), the prospect of booking a sailing can feel overwhelming, especially for those who are new to cruising. And while serendipity can lead to some memorable moments in everyday life, in the cruising realm, the most rewarding vacation experiences are almost always reserved for those who have committed to good planning.

From choosing a destination and the best time to sail , to nabbing travel insurance and packing your bags, this list of expert cruise planning tips will help ensure that you leave your worries back on land when it comes time to pull out of port. Because in the end, a little careful cruise planning will go a long way to help ensure that your trip is nothing but smooth sailing.

1: Decide on Your Dream Destination

Apart from the ship you pick, there’s probably no bigger variable for determining the outcome of your vacation than the destination you choose to cruise to. There are hundreds of itineraries to contemplate all around the globe—whether beaching-bumming in the Caribbean, city-hopping in Europe, exploring the wilderness of Alaska, or soaking up ancient culture in Asia is more your vacation speed.

For those of you just getting your feet wet on cruising, a fairly close-to-home voyage to the ever-popular Caribbean—or perhaps to the Bahamas , Bermuda, or Mexico—certainly won’t disappoint, where beautiful beaches come paired with distinct cultural experiences.

Read: Reasons to Visit Bermuda for Your Honeymoon

Miami, Florida

Another major factor in deciding upon a cruise destination is your embarkation port . Keep in mind that if you are looking to start your voyage at a specific U.S. port (perhaps one that’s set within easy driving distance), your options will be limited to whatever ships sail from there—so that’s a good place to start your research.

Note that you’ll have to fly some distances for cruises departing further afield, like for Europe or Australia. While sailings in these regions can be altogether rewarding, don’t overlook factoring in that extra travel time and international airfare.

2: Research the Best Time to Sail

Once you determine where you want to sail, the next big question is when to go. Every cruise region around the globe has its own sailing season. For instance, the winter months are the high season for Caribbean cruises , while summer is prime time for cruising Alaska and Europe.

Due to supply and demand, sailing outside of the peak periods means that if you’re willing to sacrifice the most ideal weather conditions, you’ll enjoy less-crowded ports. There will generally be more crowds and higher prices at other times of year when the kids are out of school.

3: Determine How Long to Sail

Celebrity Edge Rooftop Garden

Cruise itinerary lengths vary widely, from quick weekend getaways to multi-day sailings across the ocean. Most options, however, tend to run around the weeklong mark, but if you’re new to cruising, opting for a shorter sailing might be a good move.

You’ll find plenty of three- to five-night itineraries for close-to-home locales like the Bahamas, Caribbean, or Mexico, for instance. However, keep in mind that shorter cruises mean fewer ports of call and less time to unwind and get oriented on the ship, which could ultimately take away from an optimized cruise experience.

Remember that if you are planning a cruise to a far-flung locale, you’ll need to factor in the travel time to and from the port into your overall vacation duration.

Read: What Are the Longest Cruises You Can Take?

4: Arrive at the Port Early

Most seasoned cruisers will tell you that arriving at your cruise’s embarkation port with plenty of time to spare is essential to a stress-free trip. If you’re flying to meet your cruise, especially to an international port, that means at least a day before departure. It is well worth the peace of mind to (literally) not miss the boat on your cruise vacation should there be a flight delay.

Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain

Plus, you’ll have an extra day to explore the port city without simply heading straight from the airport to the cruise port, which is bound to offer some interesting things to see and do.

However, if your embarkation port is set within driving distance, you might plan to arrive on the day of departure, since you can set your own schedule. Still, do allow for plenty of extra time for stops and traffic delays.

Know that if you’re late, the ship will leave without you—and you’ll have to figure out the logistics of joining the voyage at the next port of call (if that’s even a possibility), on your own dime.

5: Choose Your Stateroom Carefully

Celebrity Flora Suite

Once you’ve chosen a cruise itinerary , you’ll select your accommodations, which can vary widely in features and cost. From simple “inside” (meaning interior and windowless) staterooms to lavish suites, one size does not fit all: The stateroom you pick should closely match both your personal vacation style and budget.

Cruise ship staterooms generally fall into one of four basic categories—inside, ocean view, veranda, and suite. If you relish lazy days lounging in your stateroom, enjoying coffee or nightcaps on your own private balcony, upgrading to a veranda stateroom or more spacious and sumptuous suite might be worth the splurge. Suites come with plenty of extra amenities like priority boarding, concierge services, and access to exclusive venues.

Tip: If you are prone to seasickness , request a stateroom that’s located mid-ship on a lower deck where there’s less movement on the ship should rougher seas emerge.

Read: How to Choose the Best Stateroom on a Cruise

6: Don’t Forget Incidentals

Berlin, Germany

While your upfront cruise fare covers a lot of the biggies—like accommodations, meals, entertainment, and transport from port to port—you’ll need to consider incidentals, too.

Some common additional charges to prepare for include shore excursions , bar drinks, specialty restaurant dining, spa services, internet packages, select onboard activities (like wine tastings), and gratuities.

7: Consider Booking with a Travel Agent

Catherine Palace, St. Petersburg, Russia

In this digital age, many travelers like to book their vacations independently. But when it comes to cruising, working with a cruise-specialized travel agent can be one of the best ways to book a cruise .

That’s because travel agents can oftentimes use their industry expertise and connections to pinpoint excellent sales, negotiate great prices, and/or throw in some value-add amenities, like stateroom upgrades, onboard spending credits, or prepaid gratuities. Not to mention that they can offer plenty of cruise planning insight and seasoned advice to help guide you through different types of cruises , including destinations and details like staterooms and travel insurance.

Plus, they can help you keep tabs on important dates (like when payments are due or advance reservations for shore excursions open up), as well as assist in ironing out any other details.

8: Get Travel Insurance

Experts agree that protecting your financial investment and personal health while vacationing is always a wise move. Pick up a cruise travel insurance policy for peace of mind; insurance comparison sites are a good place to do some policy browsing, though if you work with a trusted travel agent, they can help you pin down a well-tailored policy, too.

Read: How We’re Keeping You Healthy at Sea

9: Gather Necessary Travel Documents Well in Advance

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

Don’t wait until the last minute to ensure that you have all of the identification and documentation that you’ll need to embark on your cruise vacation. While a travel agent can help guide you on the specifics, it’s ultimately your responsibility to get all of your paperwork in order, and to do so well in advance of your trip. If you’re traveling internationally, this will usually mean a valid passport and any necessary travel visas (and sometimes, vaccination and inoculation certificates, too).

Read: Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Note that minors sometimes require special permission letters for travel in the absence of both accompanying parents, so keep that in mind (a scenario that might pop up for grandparents wanting to take their grandchildren on a cruise, for instance).

Read: How to Prepare for a Cruise

10: Prebook Shore Excursions and Specialty Dining

Nobody wants to spend the first days of their cruise vacation in lines to book shore excursions or to nab a preferred dining time at a specialty restaurant. Happily, advance bookings for both are available in the months leading up to the trip.

Research the ports and excursions well in advance to have first dibs on your preferred shore excursions, because many of the most popular ones can and will sell out. (Bonus: On Celebrity, you can pre-book spa treatments, salon appointments, and fitness classes, as well.)

Read: What to Do on a Cruise

11: Know What to Pack

Icefields Parkway in Jasper, Canada

With all of your cruise planning now in order, there’s only one thing left to do: Pack for your cruise! Packing for a cruise comes with several considerations, including what the shipboard atmosphere is like (noting any onboard dress codes), what kind of weather you can expect, and the types of excursions you are planning in port (are beaches or museums more your speed?).

Research your destination—and our blog—for destination-specific packing information.

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

Feel like a cruise planning pro now? Excellent—you’re ready to book your cruise vacation and set sail for a vacation of a lifetime! Our 14 ships cruise to more than 300 destinations around the globe— browse our itineraries for some instant inspiration and to book your dream cruise today.

Elissa Garay

Modern-day explorer, perpetual seeker, and diligent travel scribe Elissa Garay has traveled to and reported on 60-plus countries and 30 cruises, contributing to major national publications like Condé Nast Traveler , CNN Travel , AFAR , and Fodors  along the way. When not out globe-trotting, Elissa resides in Kingston, NY, with her husband and young daughter.

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How to plan a cruise for the first time: 10 tips for beginners.

Cruises can offer a stress-free vacation, even if you are a first-time solo traveller .

However, there are lots of things to consider when booking a cruise for the first time. To ensure that you have the best time possible and create travel memories that will linger for many years to come, you will need to do your homework.

So how do you go about planning a cruise for the first time? Faced with a sea of choices (ahem!), it can seem like an overwhelming task.

To help you make the right decision, here are ten factors to consider, all based on my own experiences.

How to Plan a Cruise for the First Time

I’m going to walk you through the decisions you need to make when planning a cruise for the first time to make sure that the experience is everything that you dream it will be.

But before starting to plan your cruise, consider this: Will you be able to handle living on a cruise ship? And if you are a solo traveller, will it feel weird cruising alone ?

Cruising is a little like  Marmite . Some people are evangelical about it; others hate it.

Depending on the itinerary, there can be days at sea at a stretch. How will you cope with that?

Are you able to navigate the waters of onboard etiquette, which varies between cruise operators? And how will you manage your days in port?

Cruising isn’t for everyone but it is often a case of if you don’t try it you will never know.

Ready to book your first cruise? Let’s set sail.

1. Plan how long you want to cruise for

Cruises come in all sizes, from a few days to a whopping 245 days, courtesy of a round-the-world jaunt with Viking.

When taking that first voyage into the unknown, a two-week cruise can be a bit of a gamble. For most rookie cruisers, a  six or seven-day cruise  is just about right, which should offer two or three ports at least to give you a sense of what it’s all about.

The alternative is to dip your toe in the water, so to speak, and take a  two or three-day cruise as a taster .

For example, from Southampton on England’s south coast, you can hop across the channel to Zeebrugge (for Bruges) or Le Havre (for Paris). Or from Piraeus, near Athens,  Celestyal  has a menu of short itineraries.

2. Define your cruising style: ship or destination. 

There is a style of cruising to fit most travel tribes and you need to choose the right one for you.

Also, ask yourself this question: Is a well-appointed ship important to you or is it all about the destinations?

3. Research your cruise line

Choosing your cruise line is a little like choosing your perfect partner.

In a sea of choice (!), you have to pick your perfect match, deciding if your personalities match and if he/she will meet your expectations. Each cruise line has its own character and you will need to do a little research to decide which will be the right fit for you.

For example, for a very European feel, try  MSC ( did an Adriatic Sea cruise with them). If a West-End / Broadway show is what you are looking for on board, then you won’t go far wrong with  Royal Caribbean  or  NCL . For a good time with a touch of class, look towards  Celebrity .

Think also about the  age group  that you want to travel with.

There are no hard and fast rules, but a longer cruise in term-time is likely to attract  older passengers , as are lines such as Fred Olsen and Saga. Conversely, sailings during school holidays are likely to be packed with holidaying  families .

If you want to avoid kids, travel during term time or choose an adult-only ship.

The  younger party crowd  gravitate towards Carnival and Costa.

4. Decide on your cruising budget

Except for a lucky few, budget is important when you book your first cruise.

A recent analysis has put  the  daily cost of cruising  at $277, of which $199 is the ticket price and $78 is onboard spend.  However, as many factors affect the cost of cruising, I would take this estimate with a liberal pinch of salt.

Let’s take a look at some of these variables.

Cruise line

Like hotels, you pay for the level of luxury and service you want.

Roughly speaking, at the  budget  end of the spectrum you have MSC, Carnival & Costa;  mid-range  cruise lines include P&O, Princess, and Cunard; Seabourne, Crystal and Regent Seven Seas are  luxury  cruise lines.

Unsurprisingly suites are more expensive than interior cabins.

You will also pay a premium for an unobstructed view, a larger cabin and that cabin’s location (deck and position).

Cabin occupancy

This is an important consideration for solo travellers as most operators charge per cabin not per person.

Some cruise lines offer  single cabins  (e.g. NCL, P&O, Cunard, Fred Olsen, Saga, Cruise & Maritime) or discounts for single occupancy (e.g. NCL). However, it is still not a level playing field with solo cabin fares 125 – 160% greater than the per-passenger rate when sharing a cabin.

If the seasonal demand is higher you will pay more. For example, Mediterranean cruises in the summer are more expensive than the same itinerary in spring or autumn when the weather is less predictable.

Repositioning cruises , when ships move from one area to another (e.g. the Caribbean to the Mediterranean), can be good value although they do involve more days at sea.

Ports charge cruise lines to park up. Therefore, the longer or more  port-intensive  a cruise, the more expensive your fare is likely to be.

Government fees will also vary according to the itinerary.

5. Look carefully at the cruise itinerary

When you are planning your first cruise, think about  how many ports  are included in the itinerary and how many days at sea there are.

Restless by nature, I find days at sea difficult. However, my veteran cruiser friend relishes them and adores repositioning cruises for that reason.

It’s horses for courses.

Ultimately, for me, it’s all about the balance between exploring new destinations and having a spot of R&R. My ideal one-week itinerary would be four ports and three days at sea.

What might yours be?

6. Research your cruise destinations

When you start to book your first cruise, being clued up on your destinations is important. Ask yourself the following questions:

Where does the ship berth?

In an ideal world, you will be able to jump off the ship and be right in the thick of things. And this is the case for many ports.

On my  cruise of the Norwegian fjords , all four ports were in the centre of town. This meant I could walk off the ship and explore at my own pace. Perfect!

However, this is not the case with all ports of call. For instance, if you take a cruise on the Western Mediterranean , the port for Rome is Civitavecchia, which is around 80km northwest of the city.

The issue with attractions being relatively inaccessible from cruise ports is that it can hamper your ability to  visit them independently.

Let’s take Rome again as an example; you can travel into the city by train from Civitavecchia but this journey takes up to 80 minutes. Also, you are at the mercy of disruptions to the public transport system.

As an independent explorer, if you miss the departure time of the ship, you have to make your own way to the next port. Harsh but true.

This brings me to the subject of  shore excursions  offered by the cruise line.

These are expensive, but if your return is delayed you are guaranteed that the ship will wait for you. For some people, that peace of mind outweighs the cost.

Bear in mind that  independent operators  also offer excursions from cruise ships, which can be a cheaper option. When I  visited St. Petersburg on a Baltic Sea cruise , I was delighted with the two-day excursion provided by Alla Tours.

One company that gets good reviews is  ShoreTrips .

Also, cruise lines or the port authority often provide shuttle buses (sometimes free) to the centre of town or nearby beaches.

Unsurprisingly, many cruise lines don’t advertise this service and it pays to do a bit of research yourself. A good resource is  WhatsInPort , which will also tell you where the port is located.

How many tenders are included?

If a ship is too big to dock or the water isn’t deep enough to allow it to do so, it has to anchor in the harbour and passengers are ferried to shore in smaller boats.

This is what is meant by a tender port. Looking at a cruise’s itinerary should tell you how many tender ports there are.

Apart from delays incurred waiting to board a tender boat, a tender port should not be an issue for most people. However, they may be less suitable if you have restricted mobility.

Are any of the ports of call a must-see for you?

If this is the case, manage your expectations.

Cruise lines cannot guarantee that they will dock at the advertised ports and may have to change their itinerary due to operational reasons or weather conditions.

This has happened to me twice.

On my first cruise to the Western Caribbean , Belize was omitted from the cruise itinerary as the tender was too dangerous in the stormy conditions.

Then in 2018, the harbour in Santander was not deep enough to accommodate P&O’s Ventura, and this port was dumped in favour of Bilbao. I was delighted because I wanted to visit the Guggenheim Museum; many of my fellow passengers were not so thrilled.

7. Choose your cabin carefully

When  choosing a cruise ship cabin , you pay for what you get.

The most  cost-effective  option is an  inside cabin , which will be smaller and will have no natural light. If you will only be using your cabin to sleep and get changed then this may suit you.

The next step up is an  outside cabin , which may be bigger than an inside cabin and will have a porthole or window to allow natural light in.

I usually opt for a  balcony cabin  which is generally larger and has a private balcony with views out over the sea.

For me, the big plusses here are fresh air and the sound of the sea. And let’s not forget being able to sip a cheeky G&T, or have your breakfast coffee & croissants, in the comfort of your balcony.

Top of the tree are  suites , which will usually have a separate living area from the bedroom.

Suites are much larger than the standard cabins but not all will have a balcony, favouring a floor-to-ceiling window. Levels of service are also higher, with some cruise operators providing a butler.

For solo travellers, increasingly cruise lines are offering single cabins . However, you need to do your homework to determine if these will work out much cheaper than booking single occupancy of a regular cabin.

When planning your first cruise, it pays to look at your itinerary and consider  how long you are likely to be in your cabin . If your itinerary is close to a port each day, you won’t get much of an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of your private balcony or suite.

The type of cabin is not the sole consideration. Think also about  where you would like to be on the ship  – fore, aft or midship –and on which deck. Examine  cruise ship maps  before booking to detect duff cabins.

You don’t want to be opposite the ship’s launderettes, near service areas, right next to the lifts, near the ship’s bars or underneath the public decks (unless you like to hear the constant scraping of furniture above you).

Also worth considering are any perks that you might get from a  stateroom category upgrade .

For example, Concierge Class on Celebrity gives you extra benefits including priority embarkation and disembarkation, upgraded toiletries and a personalised concierge service.

8. Consider a specialist cruise booking agent

Choosing a cabin can be exhausting and it is one area where a specialist cruise agent can be worth their weight in gold.

They can often offer exclusive  perks  such as upgrades, drinks packages or extra onboard credit. If you are cruising for the first time, their knowledge of ships, itineraries and cabins often surpasses anything you will glean from trawling the internet.

An independent traveller by nature, I initially resisted doing this and finally caved in and used an agent when booking a  Baltic Sea cruise . I never looked back.

9. Consider a package deal

Consider what would happen if you  missed your cruise departure  because your flight was cancelled or delayed. This can happen and I will share a couple of true stories.

Several Canadian families embarking on a cruise from Hong Kong missed their departure as their flight from Toronto was delayed. They had to fly from Hong Kong to Hanoi and then hire a mini-bus to take them to Halong Bay, the ship’s next port of call.

Then there was the British guy whose transatlantic flight to Rio was grounded because of the volcanic ash cloud from Iceland. Arriving later than planned in Brazil, he had to make his own way to catch up with the ship in Santos.

When booking a cruise, I would consider a package deal with the cruise and flight bundled together.

If you book your flight separately and these arrangements fall through, it is your responsibility to make your way to the ship’s next port of call or forfeit your cruise. With a package deal, if your flight is cancelled or delayed, most cruise lines will offer assistance.

Also, if the ship has scheduling changes or delays, the cruise line is more likely to offer assistance.

The alternative is to check if your  travel insurance  will cover you if your travel arrangements fall through. Or give yourself some wiggle room and plan to fly in at least a day early.

10. Book your cruise early

Finally, when booking a cruise it is the case that the early bird catches the worm. If you play your cards right, cruising can represent  luxury travel for less .

You usually get the best deals by booking early and popular sailings sell out quickly. To get the cabin of your choice on the sailing of your choice it is not uncommon to book 18 – 24 months in advance.

Also, some operators, especially those at the high end, will entice early bookers with additional perks such as extra onboard credit, free flights or onboard packages.

Ready to plan your first cruise?

Planning a cruise can seem daunting. But if you take it one step at a time and follow these tips, you’ll be sailing into the horizon sooner than you think.

For further tips and inspiration, take a look at my favourite cruises:

• Western Mediterranean Cruise: Essential Tips, Ports & NCL Epic Review
• Baltic Capitals Cruise on Celebrity Silhouette: Review, Port Guides & Essential Tips
• Norwegian Fjords Cruise: Essential Tips, Review & Port Guides
• Highlights of a Western Caribbean Cruise
• The Ultimate Greek Islands & Adriatic Cruise Guide (on MSC Sinfonia)

Finally, to get you into the mood to book your first cruise, take a look at these fabulous movies set on cruise ships.

Happy sailing!

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

2 thoughts on “ How to Plan a Cruise for the First Time: 10 Tips for Beginners ”

I need help l to book a ceuise to Mauritius from Durban . I would also need quatation, we are 10 adult pensioners my email [email protected] phone 0827151530. And the quatation to Portuguese island and Port Elizabeth I want to comapare prizes thanks

Good morning. I think that there has been a misunderstanding. The Flashpacker is not a cruise booking agent. Suggest that you try a local agent or online, cruisedirect.com for example. Good luck!

Comments are closed.

Planning Away

How To Plan A Cruise (Cruise Planning Made Easy)

Are you planning a cruise and wondering where to start?! I know exactly how you are feeling. It can be so overwhelming! Planning for a cruise is no joke! 

I am going to break down how to plan a cruise for you! But I have to warn you, once you get the hang of cruise planning, it might become addictive.  Cruising is the kind of vacation people love to repeat over and over again.  

In this post, we are going to help you plan a cruise vacation. I will teach you the basic things you need to know on how to plan a cruise.   I will also give you cruise planning tips you probably wouldn't even think of. 

Not only is this post great for cruising for beginners, but it will also help anyone come up with a cruise plan. 

Let's learn how to plan a cruise trip and make cruise planning easy! 

If you would like to save this information for later be sure to pin this to Pinterest. 

This post may contain affiliate links (Including Amazon)  that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you.

Best Time of Year to Plan a Cruise

The first thing you need to think about when planning a cruise is the time of year you would like to go. 

There are a lot of factors that go into deciding the best time of year.  For example, Alaska cruises are from May – September.  The best times are June and July but if you want to save money booking early in the season or at the end of the season will be less expensive.  

I actually created a document that breaks down the best prices, the most popular months, weather considerations, and my personal recommendations for the most popular areas to cruise.  

I can email you a free copy! 

This document is awesome! It is a great resource as you start to plan a cruise! 

How Far In Advance Should I Plan a Cruise?

Planning for a cruise 6-12 months in advance is perfect.  Here is the deal, if you are going on a longer or more expensive cruise booking early gives you the time to pay off the cruise! 

Some people suggest booking as early as 18 months in advance.  I don't think this is the best advice because the cruise lines typically haven't added all of the cruise ships and itineraries to their site that early.  

Last Minute Cruise Planning

Last-minute bookings are an option.  A lot of cruise ships have last-chance deals.  What I have found however is that the closer you get to the cruise date, the fewer choices are available and prices tend to get higher.  Interior rooms tend to be sold out leaving you with a higher-priced balcony option. 

How to Plan a Cruise Step by Step

We are going to break down the steps on how to plan a cruise. 

• Determine Your Budget
• Plan a Cruise Destination
• Plan Your Cruise Dates
• Pick Your Cabin
• Pick a Cruise Line
• Select a Ship
• Choose an Itinerary 
• Book Your Cruise
• Booking Specialty Restaurants 
• Booking Shore Excursions
• Booking Entertainment and Shows

These cruise planning steps will help you know exactly how to plan a cruise! 

1. Determine Your Budget

A cruise plan budget is one of the most important things you need to do before you start planning for a cruise. 

One thing to keep in mind is that cruises are all-inclusive.  It is so nice to just pay one price which includes, food, lodging, and entertainment.  You know exactly how much your vacation will cost without too much guesswork.

How to Plan a Cruise and Save Money

Shorter cruises are typically less expensive.  Florida seems to have lower-priced cruises compared to California.  But here is the thing, if you live closer to California it might be less expensive to drive or fly there even if the cruise is a little more.  

I mentioned early that certain times of the year are less expensive to cruise.  Sometimes adding 4 people in a room will save you money. There are always deals available.  We will talk about those later.  

If you book early enough, you can easily create a monthly cruise plan budget to pay off the cruise before you go on it. 

Cruise Planning Tips

One of the things to know about cruises is how gratuities work. Make sure you include enough funds in your cruise plan budget for gratuities.  At the end of the cruise, you will be asked to tip the staff.  This is so important for these workers.  They work extremely hard. 

These tips are about $100 per day per cabin.  So a 7-day cruise could incur another $700 in tips. 

2. Plan a Cruise Destination

You probably already have an idea of what cruise destination you would like to go to.  If you haven't thought about it yet no big deal. Most major cruise lines go to the same locations. 

If this is your first cruise I imagine you are looking more in the USA, maybe Europe, or possibly Asia or Australia.  Picking your destination is an important step of planning a cruise.  I will list the top cruise ports in these destinations. 

Top Departure Cruise Ports in US/Canada

• Port Canaveral (Orlando)
• New Orleans
• Galveston, TX
• San Francisco
• Hawaii 

Top Departure Cruise Ports in Europe

• Ravenna 
• South Hampton (London)
• Netherlands

Top Departure Cruise Ports in Asia/Australia/New Zealand

• Toyoko 

Once you pick your departure port you can see what itineraries are available so that you can choose your cruise stops.  You will also want to think about what airports are near each port and how easy or difficult it will be to get to the port. 

3. Plan Your Cruise Dates

When planning a Cruise consider the prices by date of departure. Here is the deal, typically the same ship sticks with the same itinerary for an extended period of time.  This allows you to see week after week of options.  

If you don't have a set date I would explore which date is the least expensive.  What I have found is the prices are pretty similar maybe a few hundred less for certain dates. (with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas)

Planning a Family Cruise

I would get a copy of the best times to cruise PDF I created to get you started.  Remember that families with children in school can only travel during certain times. Typically those times are a little more expensive. (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break, and Summer)

If you can go during an off-peak time you will be saving money.

4. Decide on a Cabin Type

In most cruise ships you have a few options for cabin types.  Different cruise lines may call these room types slightly different names but the most common are:

If you are new to cruising, interior rooms are typically the cheapest and provide 0 outside light.  Oceanview rooms have a window, and the Balcony rooms have a walk-out balcony.  Suites are typically much bigger and typically come with more perks. 

Which Part of the Ship is Good to Book my Cabin? 

Once you pick your room, you will then have to decide what part of the ship you would like to be in.  Your choices are the back of the ship, the middle of the ship, and the front of the ship.

Cruise Planning Tip 

The more centered and lower you are the less rocking you will feel.  Midship is great especially if you tend to get seasick. If you want a balcony room just book the lowest balcony level available.   

Our Experience

We have stayed in both a balcony room and an interior room.  Honestly, I really did not mind the interior room.  It was really dark and great for sleeping! I would book an interior room again.

The balcony room was nice as well.  We liked hanging out on the balcony and enjoying thing fresh air.  As you are planning for a cruise decide what makes sense for you.

5. Pick a Cruise Line

I have done a ton of research on different cruise lines. Plus it helps that my parents are cruise addicts and go every three months! There are some amazing cruise lines.  I am only going to list the best cruise lines for first-timers below. 

Disney Cruise 

Disney cruise line caters to families.  Think 5-star quality and service and unfortunately prices. I have never met anyone that has said they didn't love their Disney Cruise. You will find lots of families with young kids on Disney Cruises. 

• Fantastic Entertainment
• Private Island Castaway Cay 
• Caters to Families 
• Disney Cruises are Expensive! 
• Ships are Smaller
• Some of the Ships are Older (but well-kept)
• Shorter Itineraries

My best advice for a Disney Cruise is to go through a professional Disney Planner like GetAwayToday .  They know everything about how Disney operates. 

We used a travel agent to book everything.  It is nice to have someone who can help you navigate everything for you. We went on the Disney Wish.  It was really awesome! We had a lot of fun.

I think the ideal age to go on a Disney cruise is about 7. My kids ranged from 8-16.  We really loved it, but felt like Royal Caribbean was a good competitor.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean is another family-friendly cruise line .  Their ships are huge with lots of entertainment options for all ages.  Royal Caribbean caters to a lot of demographics. You will find kids and the elderly alike. 

• Lots of New Ships
• Phenomenal Entertainment
• Great Prices
• Variety of Itineraries 
• Good Food Options
• Private Island CocoCay ( Thrill Water Park )
• Smaller ships do not have as much entertainment but usually have great itineraries. 
• Some ships are Older (make sure to look at dates)

We have been on 2 Royal Caribbean cruises. If you are planning a family cruise this is a great option! We did a family reunion with 22 people and had a fantastic time. We went on the Allure of the Seas.   It is very similar to the Oasis of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas.  We loved how much 

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival is a budget cruise line.  Typical you will find a good price.  Carnival also has a reputation of being a party ship.  A lot of young adults and college-age kids love Carnival.  However, I know many families who have gone on Carnival and loved it. 

• Less Expensive
• Great Itineraries
• Party Scene 
• Good For Families
• Older Ships
• Party Scene

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian is another great cruise line that caters to families.  The ships have fun entertainment options.  They have a variety of ships both big and small.

• Variety of Itineraries
• Great Dining Options
• Fabulous Entertainment
• Everything Cost Extra on Ship 
• Crowded Areas

Princess Cruise Line

Princess has a fabulous reputation! It is one of the best cruise lines to go on if you are headed to Alaska because they have amazing land excursions for before or after your cruise.   

• Military Cruise Benefit
• Movies Under the Stars
• Piazza is Beautiful
• Great Service
• Hot Tubs are Small
• Food is Okay
• Internet is Horrible  

Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity is a higher-end cruise line.  It is a little more expensive but offers a different experience than some of the other cruise lines.  Kids are welcome but Celebrity caters to couples 35 and older.  My parents just got back from one and absolutely loved it!  

Pro's 

• Pristine Cleanliness 
• Food is Fabulous
• Heated Pools
• Beautiful Ships
• Non-Smoking Casino
• Older Demographic
• More Expensive
• Not Great for Kids

MSC Cruise Line

MSC is a well-established European cruise line.  It is another budget-friendly option like Carnival. Recently, they have added more itineraries in the US.  I haven't been on an MSC cruise but have talked to a few people that have said you pay for what you get. 

• Inexpensive
• Food Options are not Great
• No Soft Serve Ice Cream
• Not A Lot of Activities for Kids
• Lots of Upcharges on Ship
• Can not Connect a Credit Card to Ship Card

6. Select at Ship

Another important step for your cruise plan is to pick your ship. If this is your first time cruising, you might not even know where to start when picking a ship.  It really matters! If you haven't picked a cruise line narrow it down to 2-3.  This will help you in the cruise planning process.

Things to Look at When Picking a Ship

• New Vs. Old
• Small Vs. Big

New Vs. Old Ships

When picking your cruise ship look at the age of the ship and if it has been refurbished.  The newer the ship the nicer it is going to be.  (like USB's in the room instead of plug-ins)  It really makes a difference.  Everything feels nicer on new ships. 

Amenities on the Ship

Look at the entertainment options when choosing your cruise.  Cruises are full of fun stuff like water slides, pools, race tracks, mini golf, escape rooms, laser tag, bowling, sports facilities, Flo Riders, and rope courses. 

Also, look at what shows are being offered. Typically cruises will have a Broadway show, magic show, comedy shows, and ice skating shows.  Explore your ship to see what is available. 

Bigger Ships vs. Smaller Ships

Bigger ships typically offer more amenities.  They have a lot of fun activities to do onboard. Some bigger ships are limited to where they can port because of the size of the ship.  

Smaller ships typically have really nice itineraries.  It is more about the destination than the ship itself.  Some of the smaller ships are older but just check refurbished dates and you should be good. 

All of these considerations are important when you plan a cruise. 

7. Choose an Itinerary

One of the best things about planning a cruise is picking your itinerary.  There are amazing itineraries all over the World. 

Some popular itineraries include visiting all the Caribbean islands, Mediterranean cruises, Alaska cruises, and Mexico cruises.

Does the Cruise Ship have a Private Island?

Most cruise lines have private islands.  These islands are awesome.  They typically have activities and food that are included in the price of your cruise. 

Royal Caribbean's island has lots of free options plus some fun Cococay excursions including Thrill Water Park . Disney's Castaway cay is amazing as well. 

When planning your cruise itinerary look to see if a cruise line private island is included. 

My Experience Cruise Planning

I have been looking for a Mediterranean cruise for a while.  I knew I wanted to visit Spain, France, and Italy.  Most cruise lines offered these stops in the itinerary.

So I moved on to find a ship that offered amazing amenities. I narrowed it down to my top 3.  And finally, I found the dates that would work for me. If the dates did not line up with my ships they would get eliminated.  

It is really important to write down your top 3 choices, dates, and itineraries.  It will just help you plan a cruise and stay organized. 

8. Check for Cruise Deals

Who wants to find a good deal?!  ME!!!!  I love getting a good deal.  Most cruise lines offer deals throughout the year.  Some offer kids sail free or some are 30- 50% the price.  I have seen free drink packages or free internet.  

These deals are great but in the end,  be prepared even with these discounts cruising is expensive!  I think these promotions are there to help you feel better about spending money!  But I bet you are wondering if can I save any more money….  the answer is YES! 

Once you have viewed the current promotions for the cruise line you would like to book with head to 3rd party travel agents.  Seriously! I love booking directly with a company but if you want added bonuses travel agents are the way to go. 

You will typically get up to $1000 or $2000 onboard spending credits.  These credits can go toward shore excursions, specialty dining, and spa services.  

I know Priceline always has additional offers on top of what the cruise line is already offering.  My mom likes to book through Priceline.  

CruiseDirect is another great option and GetawayToday is great for Disney and Royal Caribbean Cruises. 

8. Book your Cruise

Once you feel comfortable with the date, itinerary, and ship, you can move forward with your cruise plan and book your trip.  

Dining Time

When you book your cruise you will be able to select your preferred dining time.  Each night you can dine in the main dining room which is included in your cruise.  There is typically an earlier dining time and a later dining time. 

Cruise Deposit

When you book and plan your cruise trip you typically need to put a deposit down. You then can make payments and pay the rest of the cruise off over time.  I love this option.  It is so nice to have your cruise paid for before you even step foot on the ship.  It makes it so much easier to relax on vacation!  

9. Specialty Restaurants on Cruise Ships

Many of the dining options onboard are included in your cruise, however, there are some specialty restaurants that are not included.  

You can use your onboard credits to dine at these restaurants or just pay an additional amount. You will want to make reservations ahead of time.  

When to Book Specialty Restaurants

If you would like a little more variety than what is included in the cruise price, booking a specialty restaurant is a good idea.  These restaurants give a variety to your dining options, especially if you are on a longer cruise. 

10. Booking Excursions

Once you book your cruise you will be able to book excursions at the destination ports you are going. You can download the cruise line app to make this easier. 

If you are given onboard credit you can use this for shore excursions.  Be aware, some of the excursions do sell out.

Booking Excursions Through the Cruise Line 

There is safety in booking through the cruise line.  If you book an excursion through the cruise line and the tour is running late, the ship will wait for you to return. 

If you book a tour through a third party and it is late, the ship will leave you!!!! 

I think if it is a small excursion, it isn't really a big deal to book through a third party like renting jet skis or swimming with dolphins.  But if you were going from Cozumel to Chichen Itza and it was an 8-hour tour I would book through the cruise line. 

We used Viator to book some of our cruise excursions.  It was so much cheaper that we were willing to take the risk and it really worked out perfectly.  We booked a trip to see the ancient ruins in Costa Maya and a zip line tour in Honduras .  Both tour companies were fabulous and we had no problems completing our tours and getting back on the boat. 

11. Booking Entertainment

Are really important cruise planning tip is that you need to book your entertainment on most cruise lines.  This means keep checking your app!  These shows are included in your cruise but you still have to reserve them. 

All of the shows will require you to have a reservation for the date/time of the show.  I have found that on shorter cruises you did not need to do this but on longer cruises it is essential. On big ships like Oasis of the Seas it is important to book ahead.  

Part of the fun of cruising is the entertainment.  Be ready to book these shows. 

12. Get Excited About the Cruise!

You pretty much have all the information you need for how to plan a cruise! Now is the fun part! 

There are a few ways to make this cruise vacation exciting! Getting a few cruise gifts for those who are coming with you can make it extra special.  

A cruise countdown is a fun item to purchase.  There are lots of fun options! I also love purchasing matching shirts especially when we go on big family reunion vacations.   

Are you Ready to Plan a Cruise?

Hopefully, now you know how to plan a cruise! There are lots of components to consider when cruise planning!  

Spend some time in front of your computer and create a cruise plan. Narrow down the best options for planning a cruise vacation that will be perfect for your family. 

Facebook Group

If you have any questions be sure to join my  Planningaway Travel Community  on Facebook.  This is a place where I post travel deals, and you can ask any questions about your upcoming trips!

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14 Comments

There is so much planning for a cruise. You did a great job breaking it down not to miss anything.

Thanks! Once the planning is done you can really relax when you go on vacation!

This is a fantastic breakdown of what to do to plan for a cruise! I’ve never been on one (yet) but will definitely be referring to this post once I get to planning stages….always nice to have something to look forward to!

Great tips on how to plan a cruise. We are planning a river cruise next year. So helpful!

That will be so cool!

Great tips on planning for a cruise.

These are excellent tips for going on a cruise. I’ve yet to do a cruise. I feel most drawn to a river cruise in Europe.

That would be awesome!

Great tips for planning a cruise. There are so many different kinds of cruises, it’s fun to investigate which one is best for the way you travel.

There are so many great cruise lines that cater to certain groups of people!

My husband and I have wanted to do a cruise for some time now, but haven’t the money or time. That and we have two cats who really don’t cope when we’re not here. BUT, with that being said, we are putting away money for a time when we can go on a cruise – be it next year or five years from now!

We waited a long time to go on our first cruise, for the same reasons. I will warn you once you go on one, you most likely will want to go on another!

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10 Questions to Ask Yourself When Planning a Cruise

March 15, 2022 //  by  Gwen Engler //   2 Comments

Considering planning a cruise vacation? Congratulations! Cruising is a great way to see the world. You spend your days exploring scenic and exciting port cities, then return to your ship for a gourmet dinner, world-class entertainment, and a comfortable bed that literally rocks you to sleep. What could be better?

One of the few downsides to planning a cruise is that it can be confusing. There are so many cruise lines, so many itineraries, and so many stateroom categories – that it can be hard to pick one, or even understand the differences between all of them. 

That’s why I’m here to help! Below I have compiled ten questions to ask yourself when planning a cruise. Thinking through each of these will help you make the best decisions possible for your vacation. If you’re still overwhelmed – or just want some personalized advice and expert guidance – let’s chat ! I spent three years working in the cruise industry in Alaska and am currently partnered as a registered agency with most major cruise lines. Together, we’ll find you the perfect cruise so you can set off on an unforgettable, stress-free vacation.

So what are you waiting for?!

1.) Where do I want to go?

These days, you can cruise almost anywhere there’s water. Two of the most popular cruise destinations are the Caribbean and Alaska , but you can also cruise to Europe , South America , Asia , the South Pacific, Antarctica, and more.

I personally tend to think that some locations make better cruise destinations than others. I like to use cruises to hit places where you can see a lot in a short time, like a small island, or where visiting by ship allows you to experience a place that would otherwise be difficult, time-consuming, or very expensive to access, like Glacier Bay in Alaska.

Others – like Buenos Aires, Argentina , or Tokyo, Japan – have so much more to offer than you could ever experience in a single day. Especially if the destination is somewhere you’re really dying to see, it might make sense to visit it individually instead of on a cruise to give it the time it deserves. 

2.) How many days do I want to spend at sea?

Cruise itineraries generally offer a mix between port days, when you’re docked somewhere and can leave the ship to explore, and days at sea, where you’re sailing from one place to another. Days at sea allow you to take full advantage of your ship’s amenities, including the spa, restaurants, lounges, shopping, theater, and special activities. ( Ziplining, go-karts, or waterslides, anyone? ) Plus, there are usually plenty of programs, tours, and entertainment going on to keep you as busy as you’d like to be.  Days at sea are also perfect for getting a little rest and relaxation, as you can laze away the hours by the pool or on your stateroom balcony without worrying that you’re missing something fun on land.

Some people, including yours truly, like their cruise itinerary to be heavy on the number of port days, with maybe one day at sea during a weeklong trip. Other people really love the shipboard experience and want multiple days to relax and enjoy all the ship’s amenities. 

Think about what you want out of your vacation and seek out itineraries that seem to have a promising balance between port days and days at sea. 

3.) Do I want a big ship or a small ship?

Cruise ships vary tremendously in size, and the size of the ship can have a big impact on your cruise experience. Generally speaking, the larger the ship, the more amenities and unique experiences you’ll find onboard. The trade-off is that you’ll be sharing space with a lot more people – sometimes thousands more.

I personally tend to prefer smaller ships, even if it means sacrificing those big waterslides and go-kart tracks. But if you want the wow factor, or you just want to have tons of fun things to do at your disposal – a bigger ship might be right for you.

4.) What kind of cabin do I want?

One of the best things about a cruise vacation is that there’s a lot of flexibility in the cost. Prices vary widely even on the same ship based on what kind of stateroom you’d like to book. Interior staterooms – those at center of the ship, without windows or balconies – are the least expensive option and best for people on a budget. For a little more money, you can book a cabin with a window, or upgrade even further to a balcony or suite.

I’ve heard a lot of people say that it’s silly to spend money on a bigger stateroom or balcony cabin because “you’re never in the room anyway!”, but I think that really depends on the person. M and I loved having a balcony on our honeymoon cruise and spent a lot of time reading and relaxing out there. If we had had an interior stateroom, though, I think we absolutely would have been out and about more because the room is smaller and we’d want to be enjoying the scenery and fresh air.

Remember that regardless of where you stay on a ship, you’re all visiting the same destinations! For the most part, you also have access to all the same amenities, though some staterooms come with additional perks like specialty dining or private lounges. 

5.) Where on the ship should my stateroom be located?

Now that you’ve decided what kind of stateroom you’d like to book, it’s time to figure out where on the ship you’d like that stateroom to be. As a general rule, I tend to suggest finding a cabin that is:

• toward the center of the ship, so that you don’t have to walk the length of the ship to reach a particular destination;
• near, but not right next to the elevators, so that they’re convenient but you’re away from any noise; and
• below or between other staterooms, rather than on a deck below somewhere like the casino or a bar, again to avoid noise.

Granted, there are plenty of good reasons to book a room that doesn’t meet those criteria. If you have limited mobility, for example, being close to the elevators is a must. Likewise, if you anticipate spending a lot of time in one area of the ship, like the casino or fitness center or a particular pool, then it might make sense to find a stateroom nearby.

6.) How will I get to the ship?

You’re probably already thinking about what flights or other transportation you’ll need to take to get to your departure port, but don’t forget to consider how you’ll get to the ship itself. Most cruise lines offer the option to book transfers that will take you directly from the airport to your ship. Booking those can often save you a lot of time and hassle, especially if the cruise terminal is far from the airport. 

If you choose not to book a transfer through the cruise line, make sure you’re prepared to take a cab, ride share (Uber, Lyft, etc.), or public transportation and that you know what to expect. Remember that the ship will not wait for you if you’re late, so plan accordingly!

To that end, I also recommend that you consider arriving in your departure city a day or two before your sailing date to make absolutely certain that you’re not late to the ship. You’ll get the peace of mind that you won’t miss the ship, plus it gives you some extra time to enjoy that port!

7.) Do I need a drinks package?

While most cruises include the majority of your food and entertainment in the cost of your fare, alcohol, soda, and other specialty drinks usually come at an additional cost. When booking a cruise, you can choose to add on a drinks package that will make your trip more all-inclusive, but is it really worth the extra money?

For many people, I say no. Drink packages that include alcohol can average anywhere from $55-$75 per person, per day , or at least $385 for a seven-day cruise. That’s a lot of money – I’ve seen entire weeklong cruises cost less!

To decide if you need a drinks package, I suggest you estimate how many drinks you’re likely to have on any given day. Keep in mind that you’ll likely be spending a good bit of time off the ship when you’re visiting a port. With an average cost of $10 per cocktail or glass of wine (less for beer), enough over the course of your vacation – more than 5-6 drinks per day, every day – to make the price tag worth it? If not, you’re probably better off paying a la carte.

Granted, some people just prefer to pay for the package so they don’t have to worry about costs during the cruise or settling a bill at the end. That’s your choice! Cruise lines also often run deals that include drinks packages or offer them at a significant discount, in which case it can make a lot of sense to add one to your vacation. 

8.) What other extras should I purchase in advance?

Drinks package aside, there are a lot of other “extras” you may be tempted to add to your cruise vacation. Some might even be included in a sale or travel deal at the time of booking, in which case I suggest snapping up all the freebies you can!

For everything else, take a minute to envision the cruise you want. Does it include completely disconnecting from the outside world, or is there a need to have access to WiFi to check in with things back home? (I was always a lock-my-phone-in-the-safe kind of gal, but now that I have kids there’s more of a need to be reachable in case of emergency.) Are you content with the dining options available to you, or are you a foodie who would appreciate access to specialty dining? What can you pay for a la carte that would end up costing you less than bundling into a package, and vice versa? 

I do recommend taking care of gratuities in advance, if possible, just so that that cost is behind you and you don’t have to worry about it. But otherwise, it’s all about figuring out what you want your cruise to look like and taking steps to make it happen.

9.) Should I buy cruise insurance?

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, I would generally recommend purchasing independent travel insurance rather than doing it through your cruise line, airline, or other travel provider. My reasoning was that if the company through which you booked your vacation goes out of business or suffers some other mishap, the travel insurance you bought will be worthless to help you recover the cost. ( This has actually happened, and it left people stranded around the globe. ) It’s better to have independent insurance that can swoop in and save the day in a crazy scenario like that in addition to covering you in the event of other emergencies.

Many cruise lines do offer a policy that allows you to cancel for any reason, however, and in * these uncertain times* that definitely holds some appeal. Most independent travel insurance doesn’t give you the ability to get reimbursed if you decide not to travel for a non-emergent reason – and especially not for something like the pandemic, which was already in place before you bought your ticket. Thus, buying the insurance through the cruise line makes a little more sense and can give you more peace of mind if you still have concerns about traveling.

That said, I still recommend protecting the investment of your vacation with an independent travel insurance policy. 

10.) What kinds of excursions do I want to book?

Now, the fun part: deciding what you’re going to do on your cruise vacation! Cruise lines offer a wide variety of tours and excursions to help you explore and enjoy your ports of call. 

Again, think about what you want out of your vacation. Is it peace and relaxation? Maybe book one to two excursions, maximum, and focus on low-stress activities like beach-hopping or sailing. Adventure? Those ATV, snorkeling, and “flightseeing” excursions are calling your name. Culture? Try a city tour or cooking or dance class. 

I generally recommend not packing every single day with pre-planned excursions, as some of the best travel experiences come from just seeing where the wind takes you that day. (That’s how we ended up renting motorbikes and exploring St. Kitts! ) Try to find a balance that’s good for you.

Finally, a note about booking. The cruise lines make it easy to schedule excursions and activities through your travel agent or cruise portal, but it’s also possible – and sometimes better – to do it yourself.

Booking through the cruise line is incredibly easy and requires very little time and research effort. It also makes a lot of cruisers feel more confident: they trust the cruise line to have vetted the excursions and tour companies, they know that the tours will get back to the ship in time, and they feel sure that any cancellations will be handled and refunded without a lot of hassle. 

That said, I also encourage you to consider booking all or some of your in-port activities directly with the tour operators themselves. In doing so, you ensure that the full cost of your excursion goes directly to that organization instead of paying a commission to the cruise line. After the devastation of the pandemic, this can make a real difference for these small businesses. Researching your own excursions can also reveal some hidden gem activities not available through the cruise line, or different/smaller tour companies that also do a great – or even better! – job.

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June 29, 2022 at 11:12 AM

Thanks so much for the tips on what to buy when going on a cruise. My grandparents want to plan a cruise for their anniversary. So I’m helping them plan what they want to do and what to buy.

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You’re so welcome, Jessie! I hope you’re having fun planning the trip for your grandparents. Please let me know if I can help in any way.

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Last Updated: February 22, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by Angela Rice . Angela Rice is a Luxury Travel Specialist and Co-Founder of Boutique Travel Advisors, a luxury travel advising business in Phoenix, Arizona. Angela specializes in consulting and curating highly customized and unique travel itineraries for clients seeking luxury, group, and multi-generational family travel. Angela studied at Arizona State University and The University of Iowa Tippie College of Business. She has prior consulting experience in accounting and business, which helps her run her business behind the scenes. Angela has been featured in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, Travel Weekly, USA Today, Travel Market Report, Phoenix Magazine, and MSN. She is also a frequent guest on WBBM News Radio 105.9 FM's Travel Tuesday show. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 30,142 times.

Cruises combine the excitement of travel, the relaxation of a guided vacation, and the value of the price. Cruising is also a wonderful way to sample the locales of an entire region, rather than have to stick to one city. By planning in advance, finding good deals, and packing properly, you and your family will be able to enjoy a wonderful, stress-free cruise vacation.

Picking Your Cruise

• The best year-round destinations are Hawaii, Asia, the Caribbean, Riviera Maya (Mexico), South Asia, and the South Pacific. [2] X Research source
• Some of the most popular first-timer destinations include the Mexican Riviera, the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Bermuda, Canada, Europe, and Hawaii. [3] X Research source

• If you choose to fly, you will need to budget in the extra cost of flying to and from the port, as well as the cost of a hotel if you want to stay the night before departure and the night you get back.

• Do you want more city or countryside stops?
• Would you rather have more days at sea or stops at ports?
• Also take into account the types of off-ship excursions that the stop will offer. Do you want more adventurous or relaxing excursions?
• Almost every cruise includes one full day at sea, so that is likely a given.

• Take into account who you want to share the cruise with. Traveling with like-minded passengers can make the experience far more enjoyable. Do you want to cruise with fellow partiers, families, or seniors?
• You should also consider size. Do you want the intimacy of a smaller ship or the anonymity of a larger ship?

Booking Your Tickets

• Some cruise lines offer incentives to book early, such as prepaid gratuities or a free dinner in a specialty restaurant, so planning ahead could save you some money.

• Cruise lines also sometimes offer special short-notice deals and incentives for cruises that haven't filled completely.

• You can often find good deals when booking directly through the cruise line.
• Travel agents often offer special perks and discounts like on-ship credit and prepaid gratuities. [10] X Research source

• If you do choose to go with an agent, make sure they know what you want and your budget. Ask lots of questions and don’t let them push you into anything you aren’t completely happy with. [12] X Research source

• If this is your first cruise, choose a midship cabin located on a lower deck. If you find out that you do tend to get seasick, this will be the best place for you as it experiences the least amount of movement.
• If you’re on a tighter budget, look into windowless rooms and “guarantees,” which may let you upgrade to a better room for free if one is available.
• If you have a bit more freedom with your budget, consider booking a balcony room with amazing views of the scenery as you cruise by.

• Consider what kind of excursion you're drawn to--active or sightseeing activities, full or half-day tours, guided or free time, and highlights or in-depth. [14] X Research source

Packing for the Cruise

• Generally, cruise lines will expect you to dress nicely on and off the ship, so remember that swimsuits and extremely casual wear are only allowed around the pool area and when participating in active excursions.
• In the cruise restaurants and main areas, you are expected to dress nicely and modestly. [16] X Research source
• Coming to a port in scruffy clothes is considered disrespectful, so take time to dress well on days on shore as well. [17] X Research source

• For example, when traveling in certain Middle Eastern countries, you’ll need to dress modestly and women will need to bring scarves to cover their head and shoulders. [18] X Research source

• Bring books and magazines, as the ship's library may have some options but likely won't be extensive.
• For wildlife-focused excursions, bring a pair of binoculars.
• If you're traveling with kids, consider bringing some inflatable water toys.
• If you plan on snorkeling often, bring your own gear and avoid rental fees. [20] X Research source

• This is especially important when cruising in cold climates, such as Alaska. You may even need to bring fleece jackets, hats, and gloves.

Expert Q&A

• Ask friends about cruises they have been on and what they enjoyed and did not enjoy about the cruise. Sometimes friends and family members are your best resource as to which cruise line you should choose. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
• Search for problematic cruise lines on the Internet. Customer reviews will help you determine the pros and cons of any cruise line. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Contact your local travel agency if you need help or have any questions. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• If your cruise is scheduled for a spring or summer month to an area where hurricanes are common, keep a close eye on the weather before making your voyage. Cruise ships do a great job of avoiding such inclement weather but it will definitely put a damper on your vacation. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Keep in mind that if there is any unrest or rioting in a port stop, the cruise line may choose to skip that stop. This clause is written into the cruise contract, so you will have to miss that stop and gain another day at sea. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ Angela Rice. Travel Specialist. Expert Interview. 18 September 2020.
• ↑ http://www.fodors.com/cruises/news/photos/the-everything-guide-to-planning-a-cruise#!3-where-can-i-sail
• ↑ https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=54
• ↑ http://www.fodors.com/cruises/101/planning-your-cruise/booking-your-cruise
• ↑ https://blog.wa.aaa.com/travel/cruises/how-to-pick-and-plan-your-first-cruise/
• ↑ https://magazine.northeast.aaa.com/daily/travel/ocean-cruises/cruise-faq-how-to-book-a-cruise/
• ↑ https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=79
• ↑ https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=76

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We are one of the largest cruise ship deck plans websites in the world. We have over 241 ocean cruise ships in our database. For each ship we show the current cruise ship deck plan. We also show each cabin type (category) for that ship. Within each cabin type we provide detail diagrams (stateroom floor plans), pictures, videos, features, square footage and more. We also list the handicap cabins. We show actual ship exterior pictures and also pictures of places on the decks. We list all the main features for each ship including a listing of features NOT on that ship. This helps to make researching cruise ships so easy and so fun! We give you power at your finger tips to find the information you are looking for. It is all available from one page and usually just a click away. We hope you enjoy! The CRUISEDECKPLANS Team.

Decide what type of cabin you would like.

There are four main types (categories) of cabins: Inside cabins: These cabins are usually the lowest price. Typically they will have twin beds that convert to a queen size, a private bath with a shower, a closet for hanging clothes, a dresser and a television. These cabins do not have a window to let natural light in. To help give the occupants an impression of having a view, some inside cabins have a virtual view. That means there is a large screen that displays outside views. Expect to pay $100 to $200 a night for an inside cabin. Exception: Carnival has several cabins which are classified as inside cabins but actually have a french glass door which allows light into the room (no balcony, but the door can be opened). Carnival also has some cabins that have a window, but because the window has an obstructed view (that means there is a railing or object in the way) it is listed as an inside cabin. Royal Caribbean has some cabins that have a window but look out over an inside promenade area. These are called "promenade staterooms". Oceanview cabins: These cabins are like inside cabins but usually have a port hole or window. A window is much more desirable than a porthole because the porthole can be difficult to look through. Windows will vary in size and some cabins will even have full floor to ceiling windows. Most window sizes for oceanview cabins are about 4 feet by 3 feet. Be sure to read the cabin description carefully to determine if there is a different type of window. Windows can not be opened. Expect to pay $150 to $250 a night for an oceanview. Balcony cabins: These cabins are better, and more expensive, than oceanview cabins because they typically have full glass sliding doors that lead to a balcony. The balcony allows fresh air and light into the cabin and also may have additional chairs or loungers. Balconies tend to be separated by dividers which give some sense of privacy, but be aware that most balconies are not fully private and can be viewed from above or by the cabin next to you. Balconies on new Norwegian Cruise Line ships and Princess Cruise Line ships tend to be smaller and more narrow than balconies on other ships. We will list balcony size in the cabin description.  Carnival offers what is called a "Cove Balcony" on some of their ships. These balconies are very popular because they sit lower on the ship (closer to the water line). Expect to pay $200 to $400 a night for an balcony cabin. Suite: A suite is a premium cabin on a cruise ship. It is usually much larger than a balcony and includes more perks. Suites typically have a full bath tub, large shower, larger closets, larger balcony, larger TV, and butler services. Expect to pay $400 to over $1,000 a night for a suite.

Decide where you would like the cabin located.

Cabins are priced based on location on the ship. Typically cabins on lower decks are less expensive. Typically cabins midship (in the middle part of a deck) cost higher. Balcony and Suite cabins on the very aft of the ship can also be more expensive than other cabins. In order to set the pricing many cruise lines will divide each cabin type into sub categories. For example a balcony cabin may be divided into sub categories such as B1, B2, B3, B4. In most cases the cabin size and features in a sub category is the exactly the same. The only difference is usually the location of the cabin on the ship. Please look for the notes on the category descriptions to determine if there is a difference in size or features between the subcategories. Exception: Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines will also use sub categories to distinquish between how many occupants the cabin will sleep. Therefore a cabin that can sleep up to 4 people will be a different sub category from a cabin that sleeps only 2 people. You can also use our drag deck feature to determine if your cabin is in a good location. Cabins are best located when they are next to, above or below other cabins. As a rule of thumb avoid booking a cabin under a public area or kitchen. If you are looking for a balcony cabin, please be aware that on many ships the cabins that are below the pool deck may also be shaded by a roof overhang from the deck above. You can also use our drag deck feature to determine if there is a overhang. TIP: Many of the cruise ships are so large now and have so many floors that elevators are required to get to the public areas from your stateroom. But during peak times you could be waiting awhile to get on an elevator. If you pick a stateroom near the top or near the lower decks of the ship you may find a much better experience getting around. For example a stateroom on top of the ship gets you closer to the pool and buffet areas. A stateroom near the main public decks gets you closer to the lounges and bars. If you do need to take an elevator it is easier to find one that is empty if you are starting from the top or the bottom. You will also find the busiest elevators are the ones that go up to the buffet.

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Cruise Deck Plans, Ship Reviews

CruiseMapper's deckplan services provide cruise deck plans reviews integrated with newest deck layouts and deck legends (company's cabin categories as names and color codes). Each page has a separate link to the vessel's passenger cabins' review that provides information on all its staterooms (amenities, cabin types, grades) with usually included floor plans and photos. Here you can search for a particular ship (via the above search bar) or you can skip the introduction/explanations and go down directly to our list of large passenger ships' deckplan pages .

Along with regularly updated officially issued cruise line deck plans, CruiseMapper's deck plans pages also show statistical information on passenger shipping vessels (including ferries ). All pages are organized as "ship review" articles. You will know what is what, where (location on deck), serving what (functions), operates how and when (review of all onboard venues as activities, amenities, operational hours, special features).

Most of CruiseMapper's ship deck plan pages also review the vessels' newest upgrades/latest refurbishment changes. All dining venues (restaurants and food bars) reviews also contain basic menu/cuisine information, and whether the dining options are complimentary, at fee/surcharge PP or a-la-carte-priced.

All deck plan pages include basic statistical information, such as:

• year built, vessel class and sisterships (among the fleets of all lines)
• total number of cabins, plus number per type (Inside, OceanView/RiverView, Balcony, Suite)
• capacity - passengers (normal and max) and crew capacity
• number of passenger-accessible decks, number (if any) of swimming pools and whirlpools (hot tubs), passenger elevators, water-slides

On some boats is additionally provided information regarding name origin/meaning, service history, fun facts.

Cruise deck plans (floor layouts) updates

Like all things in life, cruise deck plans do change over time. Often, cruise companies/charter operators change facilities and public venues - their location, type (services and amenities), size, or names. Other changes may relate to new cabin categories.

Often, after a major refurbishment, to the ship are added:

• new passenger cabins
• new dining venues - specialty restaurants, bars, lounges, etc
• new facilities - aqua park, waterslide(s), Spa, pool(s) / Jacuzzi(s), outdoor movie theater, etc
• or - simply change the names of the existing ones.

We are responsible for all these deckplan changes and keep our deck layouts and reviews regularly updated and correct.

Cruise ship deck plan reviews

In each of CruiseMapper's deck plans you will find a detailed list of all staterooms and facilities on the vessel. This information generally includes:

• vessel details - year built, last refurbished (and/or scheduled refurbishment), capacity (passengers plus crew)
• total number of passenger cabins, launderettes (passenger use self-service laundry /if any), onboard credit kiosks (self-service money transfer), photo kiosks
• dining room(s), buffet restaurant, specialty restaurant(s) /at surcharge per person or with a la carte menus, dinner club, fast food bars/stations
• theatre/main show lounge
• lounges and bars, conference/meeting room(s)
• casino, video games arcade, special gaming room (like F1 car simulator)
• swimming pool(s) and whirlpools (hot tubs)
• Spa and Fitness complex (wellness facility), jogging/walking track, roller-skating track, sports court(s)
• cinema, library, art gallery, photo gallery
• atrium/lobby area with reception desk, shore excursions desk, duty-free shops and boutiques
• Promenade Deck (an outdoor area that fully or partially encircles the ship)
• kids and teen club lounges and playing zones (on some ships with pool/whirlpool), missing on adult-only vessels
• Aqua Park with slide(s) - on the largest liners only
• unique facilities - such as rock-climbing wall(s), ice-skating track(s), Zip-line, rotating panoramic capsules, glass-floor walking paths, bumping cars, skydive and surf simulators, F1/Sports Car simulator, bungee trampoline, and many other truly bizarre cruise ship design inventions.

CruiseMapper's dedicated staff does regular updates that reflect all floor plan changes (when officially announced by the companies). We do this job properly - so you can count on us, and the information we provide to be accurate and up-to-date.

Follows the long list of (internal) links, which redirect to the vessel's deck plan review. Know that these are only ocean-going ships.

To see all riverboat deck plans, you'll have to follow CruiseMapper's river cruise lines links and explore the company's fleet. Our list of river cruise companies includes AmaWaterways , ACL-American Cruise Lines , AQV/AQSC-American Queen Voyages/Steamboat Company , Arosa , Avalon Waterways , CroisiEurope , Emerald Waterways , Grand Circle , Luftner-Amadeus , Scenic , Scylla , Uniworld , Viking , also our hubs for River Cruises (smaller operators, time-chartered boats), Russian River Cruises (boats in Russian Federation) and Nile River Cruises (boutique hotel ships sailing in Egypt).

Note: The following list of cruise line deck plans includes only CruiseMapper's largest companies' fleets and only ocean-going vessels. To access our full deckplan database (including small-fleet shipping companies , cruiseferries and riverboats ) use the search box at page top .

List of cruise ships with deck plans

Carnival cruise line.

•   Carnival Breeze
•   Carnival Celebration
•   Carnival Conquest
•   Carnival Dream
•   Carnival Elation
•   Carnival Firenze
•   Carnival Freedom
•   Carnival Glory
•   Carnival Horizon
•   Carnival Jubilee
•   Carnival Legend
•   Carnival Liberty
•   Carnival Luminosa
•   Carnival Magic
•   Carnival Mardi Gras
•   Carnival Miracle
•   Carnival Panorama
•   Carnival Paradise
•   Carnival Pride
•   Carnival Radiance
•   Carnival Spirit
•   Carnival Splendor
•   Carnival Sunrise
•   Carnival Sunshine
•   Carnival Valor
•   Carnival Venezia
•   Carnival Vista

Princess Cruises

•   Caribbean Princess
•   Coral Princess
•   Crown Princess
•   Diamond Princess
•   Discovery Princess
•   Emerald Princess
•   Enchanted Princess
•   Grand Princess
•   Island Princess
•   Majestic Princess
•   Regal Princess
•   Royal Princess
•   Ruby Princess
•   Sapphire Princess
•   Sky Princess
•   Star Princess
•   Sun Princess

Disney Cruise Line

•   Disney Destiny
•   Disney Dream
•   Disney Fantasy
•   Disney Magic
•   Disney Treasure
•   Disney Wish
•   Disney Wonder
•   Queen Anne
•   Queen Elizabeth
•   Queen Mary 2
•   Queen Victoria

AIDA Cruises

•   AIDAbella
•   AIDAblu
•   AIDAcosma
•   AIDAdiva
•   AIDAluna
•   AIDAmar
•   AIDAnova
•   AIDAperla
•   AIDAprima
•   AIDAsol
•   AIDAstella

Viking Cruises

•   Viking Jupiter
•   Viking Mars
•   Viking Neptune
•   Viking Octantis
•   Viking Orion
•   Viking Polaris
•   Viking Saturn
•   Viking Sea
•   Viking Sky
•   Viking Star
•   Viking Vela
•   Viking Venus
•   Viking Vesta
•   Zhao Shang Yi Dun-Viking Sun

Royal Caribbean

•   Adventure Of The Seas
•   Allure Of The Seas
•   Anthem of the Seas
•   Brilliance Of The Seas
•   Enchantment Of The Seas
•   Explorer Of The Seas
•   Freedom Of The Seas
•   Grandeur Of The Seas
•   Harmony Of The Seas
•   Icon Of The Seas
•   Independence Of The Seas
•   Jewel Of The Seas
•   Liberty Of The Seas
•   Mariner Of The Seas
•   Navigator Of The Seas
•   Oasis Of The Seas
•   Odyssey Of The Seas
•   Ovation Of The Seas
•   Quantum Of The Seas
•   Radiance Of The Seas
•   Rhapsody Of The Seas
•   Serenade Of The Seas
•   Spectrum Of The Seas
•   Star Of The Seas
•   Symphony Of The Seas
•   Utopia Of The Seas
•   Vision Of The Seas
•   Voyager Of The Seas
•   Wonder Of The Seas

Holland America

•   ms Eurodam
•   ms Koningsdam
•   ms Nieuw Amsterdam
•   ms Nieuw Statendam
•   ms Noordam
•   ms Oosterdam
•   ms Rotterdam
•   ms Volendam
•   ms Westerdam
•   ms Zaandam
•   ms Zuiderdam

P&O Cruises

•   Arcadia
•   Arvia
•   Aurora
•   Azura
•   Britannia
•   Iona
•   Pacific Adventure
•   Pacific Encounter
•   Pacific Explorer
•   Ventura

Costa Cruises

•   Costa Deliziosa
•   Costa Diadema
•   Costa Fascinosa
•   Costa Favolosa
•   Costa Fortuna
•   Costa Pacifica
•   Costa Serena
•   Costa Smeralda
•   Costa Toscana

TUI Cruises

•   Mein Schiff 1
•   Mein Schiff 2
•   Mein Schiff 3
•   Mein Schiff 4
•   Mein Schiff 5
•   Mein Schiff 6
•   Mein Schiff 7
•   Mein Schiff Relax

Seabourn Cruises

•   Seabourn Encore
•   Seabourn Odyssey
•   Seabourn Ovation
•   Seabourn Pursuit
•   Seabourn Quest
•   Seabourn Sojourn
•   Seabourn Venture

Norwegian Cruise Line

•   Norwegian Aqua
•   Norwegian Bliss
•   Norwegian Breakaway
•   Norwegian Dawn
•   Norwegian Encore
•   Norwegian Epic
•   Norwegian Escape
•   Norwegian Gem
•   Norwegian Getaway
•   Norwegian Jade
•   Norwegian Jewel
•   Norwegian Joy
•   Norwegian Pearl
•   Norwegian Prima
•   Norwegian Sky
•   Norwegian Spirit
•   Norwegian Star
•   Norwegian Sun
•   Norwegian Viva
•   Pride of America

Celebrity Cruises

•   Celebrity Apex
•   Celebrity Ascent
•   Celebrity Beyond
•   Celebrity Constellation
•   Celebrity Eclipse
•   Celebrity Edge
•   Celebrity Equinox
•   Celebrity Flora
•   Celebrity Infinity
•   Celebrity Millennium
•   Celebrity Reflection
•   Celebrity Silhouette
•   Celebrity Solstice
•   Celebrity Summit
•   Celebrity Xcel
•   Celebrity Xpedition
•   Celebrity Xploration

Marella Cruises

•   Marella Discovery
•   Marella Discovery 2
•   Marella Explorer
•   Marella Explorer 2
•   Marella Voyager

MSC Cruises

•   MSC Armonia
•   MSC Bellissima
•   MSC Divina
•   MSC Euribia
•   MSC Fantasia
•   MSC Grandiosa
•   MSC Lirica
•   MSC Magnifica
•   MSC Meraviglia
•   MSC Musica
•   MSC Opera
•   MSC Orchestra
•   MSC Poesia
•   MSC Preziosa
•   MSC Seascape
•   MSC Seashore
•   MSC Seaside
•   MSC Seaview
•   MSC Sinfonia
•   MSC Splendida
•   MSC Virtuosa
•   MSC World America
•   MSC World Asia
•   MSC World Europa

Oceania Cruises

•   Oceania Allura
•   Oceania Insignia
•   Oceania Marina
•   Oceania Nautica
•   Oceania Regatta
•   Oceania Riviera
•   Oceania Sirena
•   Oceania Vista

Silversea Cruises

•   Silver Cloud
•   Silver Dawn
•   Silver Endeavour
•   Silver Galapagos
•   Silver Moon
•   Silver Muse
•   Silver Nova
•   Silver Origin
•   Silver Ray
•   Silver Shadow
•   Silver Spirit
•   Silver Whisper
•   Silver Wind

What to pack for a cruise

Our writer has sailed on more than 50 cruises. Here are her tips on how to pack for a cruise—and the items she always takes along, for every stage of the journey.

These days, there seems to be a cruise for every type of traveler, from luxury liners with all the comforts of a hotel to expedition-style sailings equipped for adventure. No matter what type of cruise you’re planning, it makes sense to make a packing list so you can make the most of your time onboard.

After sailing on more than 50 cruises, I’ve learned a thing or two about what to pack for a cruise. Besides the necessary cruise clothes, my packing list includes key items, such as towel clips and a hand scale. Of course, there’s lots more to consider. Read on for the 20 products I always pack for a cruise.

What to pack for a cruise — a checklist

Before getting into what to pack, it’s important to know that this list is organized into categories. That makes it easier to consider other essentials before you drag out your suitcase.  

For traveling to the cruise

Getting to the terminal is the most difficult part of going on a cruise. Being prepared with a few essentials will make the check-in process and the first few hours on the ship more pleasant.

Passport with cover

Buy it now on   Amazon

No matter where you’re sailing, you must bring identification. Many cruisers bring their passports. A colorful or unique passport cover will help you quickly find it in your bag.  

Bluetooth luggage trackers

Packing trackers, such as Apple AirTags, in luggage and any other bags can help make embarkation day feel a little less stressful, especially if anything gets lost.  

Digital luggage scale

Everyone picks up a souvenir or two on vacation. Packing a digital luggage scale can help keep your luggage under weight regulations for flights. The Etekcity scale is easy to read, and in my experience, accurate to within a few ounces of the scales at the airport.  

Travel pill organizer

This simple pill organizer keeps all your medications, vitamins, and supplements in one light, packable container. I love that there are eight compartments and that each open and snap closed.

For the cruise ship  

Whether you’re sailing for three nights or three weeks, these four items will help you enjoy your time onboard.  

Corkcicle reusable water bottle

Whether you’ve paid for a drink package or plan to sip on included beverages, a reusable water bottle is always handy. The Corkcicle bottle is insulated, has a fun floral design from Rifle Paper Co., and can keep drinks cold for up to 25 hours, according to the company. I love that the lid is designed with a built-in straw, which is a little more environmentally friendly.  

Wet-dry bag  

A wet-dry bag is one of the most important things to bring on a cruise, especially if you’re looking forward to a dip on the last day aboard. Toss wet bathing suits into one of these bags and pack it in your suitcase without worrying about getting the rest of your clothes wet. These wet-dry bags are large enough for at least two adult-sized swimsuits.  

Towel clips

The upper decks can get quite breezy. To prevent towels from flying off chairs, consider bringing some towel clips. They’re lightweight and easy to pack, but strong enough to hold standard pool towels in place. Towel clips are handy for private island destinations too. They can help you find your beach chairs among the mass of lookalikes.  

Sun Bum sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must no matter where you travel. I love Sun Bum because it goes on smoothly and doesn’t feel sticky or heavy on my skin. It’s vegan and gluten free, but most importantly, it’s safe for reefs.

For your cruise cabin

These four items will help keep your cabin tidy and organized.  

Magnetic hooks  

Because most of the walls in cabins are magnetic, many cruise lines allow travelers to use magnetic hooks. These hooks can support 27, 40 or 130 pounds. But the 27-pound option should be enough for a cruise. Use them to hang hats and lanyards, or decorations if you’re celebrating a special occasion.  

Collapsible laundry hamper

Cabins tend to be small, so it can be difficult to figure out where to put dirty clothes. A collapsible laundry hamper is a great way to keep clothes in one spot. Once the hamper is full, I refold the clothes and put them in my suitcase. The hamper folds flat, so it’s easy to pack too.

Magnetic door decorations

Cruise ship hallways can seem endless. An easy way to find your cabin is to put magnetic decorations on your door. They’re also a snap to remove and pack when it’s time to disembark.  

Over the door hanging shoe organizer  

Shoe organizers are great for holding almost anything in tight quarters, from toiletries to hairbrushes, first-aid kits, and medicine boxes. You can purchase separate magnetic hoods to hold them up.  

For travel and excursions

These items can be a big help during excursions or on travel days before or after your cruise.

RFID wallet  

Radio frequency identification, commonly known as RFID, is a high-tech way to steal credit card information. To protect yourself on excursions, carry cards in an RFID-blocking wallet. This one is slim, easily fits into a fanny pack or purse, and has room for a handful of cards.  

Swimsuit coverup

On many cruises, you can go from ship to beach to shopping in one day. A swimsuit coverup is a great versatile piece to pack. It’s lightweight yet provides enough coverage for the beach, and you can wear it as a casual dress for lunch in port.  

Crocs Classic Clogs

Buy it now on   Amazon  

These shoes for kids and adults are great if you’re headed to the beach or a day resort. They’re comfortable and non-slip—ideal for wet pool decks. They come in an abundance of colors and can be customized with   charms .  

LugLife Puddle Jumper SE Backpack  

A backpack is a travel and cruise essential. I like this one from LugLife because it’s loaded with pockets inside and outside. It has plenty of room for everything you need for a day of exploring, plus it’s water-repellant and has a convenient handle on top.

What not to pack on a cruise

As you prepare your packing list, keep in mind that many cruise lines ban certain things. Some are obvious—firearms, fireworks, drones, hard liquor—for passenger and crew safety. Others are less so. Your cruise line’s website should have a list of prohibited items. In general, here are a few other items you can’t bring on a cruise:

Scissors:   While some scissors for grooming and medical kits are allowed, any pair with blades four inches or longer are not permitted.  

CBD products: Most cruise lines ban anything containing cannabidiol. Don’t risk not being able to board the ship by packing these items in your day bag or larger pieces of luggage.

Anything that produces heat: Cruise lines are very cautious when it comes to items that produce heat. Things like coffee machines, candles, heating pads, and travel steamers are not allowed. The only permissible heat-producing items are hair straighteners or curling irons.

Some sporting equipment: Rollerblades, hockey sticks, and pool noodles are not allowed on cruise ships. Additionally, scuba diving equipment is prohibited. If you’ve booked a scuba excursion, the outfitter will provide the equipment you need.

Cruise packing tips from someone who’s been on more than 50 cruises

From ocean liners sailing the Mediterranean to river boats traversing European waterways, I’ve been on dozens of cruises. Yet, I still find packing for a cruise one of the most difficult things to do before setting sail. Fortunately, I have honed a few top tips for packing for a cruise.  

Think about where you’re going and how long the cruise is.

If you live within driving distance of your cruise terminal, you won’t have to worry about weight restrictions. In general, pack at least two outfits for each day—one for an excursion and one for dinner and late-night events on the ship. If possible, you can pack less by doing laundry on the ship on sea days.  

Make two packing lists for every sailing.  

Because suitcases are delivered to your cabin, I always make two packing lists for every cruise I take. The first includes everything I need to pack in my suitcase. The second—more important—list has everything I need in my embarkation day bag, such as passports, medications, a swimsuit, and sunscreen.  

Use colored packing cubes to keep everyone organized.  

Packing cubes are helpful for keeping small stuff, such as socks and underwear, organized on a cruise ship. Use different colored packing cubes for everyone in your travel party. That way, you can share drawers in cabins without mixing everyone’s things together and still keep the room tidy.  

Related Topics

• PRODUCT ROUNDUP
• CRUISE SHIPS
• ADVENTURE TRAVEL

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See Four Seasons' upcoming ultra-luxury cruise with a $350,000-a-week suite bigger than most homes

• Four Seasons says it will begin sailing an  ultra-luxury yacht cruise in January 2026.
• The 222-guest vessel would have 95 spacious suites and 11 dining options — but food wouldn't be free.
• The largest suite would have four floors and bedrooms, a spa, and a price of $350,000 per sailing.

Four Seasons plans to expand its high-end hotels and resorts portfolio with a luxury 222-guest cruise ship.

The company says the 95-suite vessel will debut in January 2026 and cost a minimum of $20,000 per weeklong sailing.

For that price, the luxury hospitality giant says travelers would enjoy a one-to-one guest-to-staff ratio and massive suites spanning as many as four floors. If all goes as planned, the 679-foot-long Four Seasons I could become one of the most expensive and opulent options in the cruise industry.

The ultra-plush 14-deck Four Seasons I is scheduled for 19 voyages in 2026 to more than 130 Caribbean and Mediterranean ports.

Reservations opened two weeks ago. Those interested can register to join a waitlist or book through a travel agent.

So far, "sales have been very encouraging, and the demand is exciting to see," Thatcher Brown, chief commercial officer and head of joint operations for Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings, told Business Insider in a statement. The company is a joint owner and operator of Four Seasons Yachts.

Renderings make the Four Seasons I look as opulent as the brand's land-based properties.

Four Seasons says its vessel will have 95 suites ranging from 537 to 9,975 square feet, some with three bedrooms.

The smallest suite starts at $19,700 for a five-night roundtrip voyage to Athens, Greece.

No windowless interior cabins here: Like other ultra-luxe cruises, the suites would all have terraces and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Customers could expect upscale amenities like a walk-in closet, down-filled duvets and pillows, and marble dual vanity bathrooms, per Four Seasons.

The most premium suites would also feature additional accommodations for "personal assistants," such as au pairs or security personnel.

Some options, like the 7,952-square-foot Loft Suite, could be adjoined with seven other cabins to accommodate up to 20 people.

Without connecting cabins, the Loft Suite would already have three bedrooms and bathrooms, a powder room, and a sauna.

Others, like the largest Funnel Suite, would have its own spa and kitchen.

Four Seasons says the 9,975-square-foot mansion, partially perched in the ship's glass-lined funnel , will span four floors, four bathrooms, three bedrooms, and three powder rooms.

Not to mention the private elevator, pool, and $350,000-a-voyage price tag.

Accommodations of this price and size are generally unheard of in the cruise industry.

Luxury operator Silversea says the largest suite on its upcoming 728-guest Silver Ray will be 1,324 square feet. Competitor Regent Seven Seas' new Seven Seas Grandeur debuted in 2023 with a more expansive six-guest 4,443-square-foot option.

Both suites' sizes and prices — Regent's starts at $42,000 per person for a total of $252,000 at maximum occupancy — would be stunted by Four Seasons' promise of a 9,975-square-foot, $350,000 floating mansion.

But cabins with six-digit prices aren't unheard of.

While not a luxury cruise line, Royal Caribbean's popular three-floor townhouse on the new Icon of the Seas is being booked at an average of $100,000 a week — although it's about four times smaller than Four Seasons' largest.

Royal Caribbean and other mass-market cruise lines are beloved, in part, for their unlimited complimentary food options.

Regent Seven Seas' all-inclusive fare also covers caviar, foie gras, and Champagne.

But don't expect any of these to be free on the Four Seasons I.

Breakfast would be complimentary. Lunch, dinner, and booze would not.

The vessel's 11 restaurants and lounges would be priced similarly to Four Seasons' on-land properties. (A dinner entrée at its resort on the Caribbean island of Nevis — also one of the ship's destinations — ranges from $34 to $163.)

The pricing structure may sound odd to most cruise traditionalists. (Hey, at least WiFi would be "free.")

But some of the ship's amenities could look familiar: Like most cruise liners, the Four Seasons I would have a pool, spa, and clubs for children and teens.

The company also promises a lounge and marina that will open onto the water, giving guests direct access to activities like snorkeling or windsurfing.

Four Seasons Yachts plans to take delivery of its $399 million vessel, now being built by famed Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, in late 2025.

A second Fincantieri-built ship would join the hospitality company's fleet the following year. The next vessel would cost more than 400 million euros, about $429.2 million, Four Seasons says.

This isn’t Four Seasons' first foray into itinerary-based vacations.

The company has also found "tremendous success" in its private jet-based "cruises," Alejandro Reynal, the president and CEO of Four Seasons, told BI in a statement.

Its 2024 vacation-by-air itineraries started at $135,000 for a 16-day Asia tour. Demand has been growing, he said, "signaling that luxury travelers are looking for immersive, exclusive, end-to-end travel journeys that allow them to explore the world with their favorite brands."

But its new ultra-luxe cruise arm would be entering an increasingly crowded luxury market, soon to be dominated by like-minded hospitality giants.

High-end Aman Resorts and Orient Express plan to launch their own luxury cruises in 2027 and 2026, respectively.

Staying ahead of the competition, Ritz-Carlton debuted its first 149-suite Evrima yacht cruise in 2021, with a second 224-cabin ship scheduled to begin sailing later this year. Its least expensive itinerary is currently $5,100 per person for a six-night voyage from Barbados to Puerto Rico in early 2025.

Interested in a hotelier-owned vacation at sea but don't want to pay the luxury price tag? Margaritaville's cruise is an affordable $75 for two nights.

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

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By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

The Army Has a Plan to Kill Drones: Frickin' Laser Beams

And missiles and microwaves.

This news dropped at the same time as newly released plans explained that the Army was re-allocating human resources away from its special ops units. The intention is to instead stand up a larger force of short-range air defense with the goal of protecting soldiers from attacking drones, mortar rounds and cruise missiles. The urgency for such defenses was reinforced after an Iranian-designed kamikaze drone killed three U.S. soldiers in Jordan on January 27.

The Army’s short-range air defense (SHORAD) units—which the services is increasing to at least nine battalions—come in two flavors. Indirect Fire Protection Capability battalions protect static military bases and semi-permanent command posts using Stinger missiles and automated Land Phalanx gatling cannons. Divisional M-SHORAD battalions, on the other hand, defend frontline forces on the move using Avenger Humvee and Stryker vehicles also armed with Stingers.

But not only is the tried-and-true Stinger growing long in the tooth—it’s out of production. And a missile designed to shoot down manned aircraft costing millions of dollars is too expensive ( over $120,000 for each refurbished expired missile) to cost-efficiently tackle drones costing just hundreds or thousands of dollars each, and which may be fielded in large numbers. Indeed, in Ukraine, both sides are expending over 10,000 kamikaze drones per month .

That’s why the Army doesn’t want to rely only on gun and missile-based defenses. Instead, it has several alternatives , like the laser-armed DE-Stryker and new drone-hunting Coyote Counter-UAS batteries equipped with interceptor drones.

The new drone threat

The affordable small civilian drones that rose to prominence in the early 2010s were rapidly weaponized and employed by insurgents in Iraq and Syria—a then novel, but not game-changing threat. But subsequent fighting in Ukraine has revealed that state actors could procure such low-cost quadcopters drones (and modestly more expensive fixed-wing military ones) in huge quantities and swiftly evolve them into surrogates for precision artillery, anti-tank missiles, and even long-distance strategic cruise missiles at a relatively cheap price.

Videos show reusable grenade-dropping drones and single-use kamikaze drones hunting down individual soldiers in trenches, devastating armored vehicles in the open, and even roaming around inside warehouses to kill vehicles concealed within.

Larger drones costing in the tens of thousands of dollars have flown long distances to assail capital cities and remote airbases, occasionally destroying fighter jets , strategic bombers, and cargo planes on the ground worth tens of millions of dollars each. And such tallies don’t reflect what is possibly the most lethal use of drones: spotting targets for precision targeting by artillery, mortars, and tanks.

Ukraine’s drone warfare innovations were soon replicated by Russia, and it was clear that similar tactics could be effective against the U.S. military. Furthermore, the most commonly used types of drones in Ukraine were from China and Iran—unsurprising, as both emerged as major producers of lower-cost drones in the 2010s.

Bringing out the big (laser) guns

Lasers weapons have their upsides: precision, unparalleled speed, and limited risk of collateral damage. But they also have their downsides: very high energy requirements and reduced performance in obscuring weather .

But, crucially, lasers have a trivial cost per shot, which encourages their use against small, cheap drones. That matters when—as videos recorded in Ukraine have shown—the same vehicle or building is attacked in succession by many kamikaze drones (each costing just a few hundred dollars) to guarantee a kill.

That’s the logic behind the Army’s eight-wheeled Stryker variant called DE M-SHORAD, which complements the service’s existing Stryker M-SHORADS armed with Stingers, Hellfire missiles, and 30-millimeter cannons . The laser-armed DE M-SHORADS might be tasked with defending brigade and divisional command posts.

Currently, the service is testing a platoon of four Stryker A1s with a ‘Guardian’ turret by Raytheon/Kord Systems—one packing a 50 kilowatt laser sufficient for timely disabling of drones, helicopters , artillery rockets, and mortar rounds. Generally, laser-armed Strykers have performed excellently against drones, but encountered difficulties swatting faster artillery rockets and mortar bombs.

The Army also plans to test a buggy-style 4x4 Infantry Squad Vehicle armed with a 20-kilowatt laser for killing smaller Group 1 or 2-class drones.

Drone swarms a problem? Microwave’em!

Lasers may solve the cost-per-shot dilemma of blasting cheap drones, but defense analysts point out that they can only effectively engage one drone at a time. In future wars, however, drones enhanced with autonomous AI and mass-produce on an industrial scale may attack simultaneously in cooperative swarms of large numbers to overwhelm defenses with too many targets.

So, in 2023, the Army awarded $66 million to Epirus for the delivery of a platoon of four prototype high-powered microwave-weapons (HPMs) based on the company’s Leonidas counter-drone system. Leonidas uses a low-temperature gallium-nitride antenna combined with AI-enhanced smart power management system to project electromagnetic pulses that can affect a broad arc—a single pulse can disable multiple nearby drones. And despite the area of effect, Leonidas can also discriminate and exclude friendly systems from their pulses.

While electronic warfare can also have a broad area of effect against drones, it may be ineffective against drones with strong autonomous features that remove their dependency on satellite navigation and remote control signals. An EMP pulse doesn’t care about autonomy, as it’s directly disabling the drone’s electrical systems. Of course, that effect could also be potent against manned systems.

Offsetting those big advantages is Leonidas’s shorter range—a few hundred meters, which is much shorter than than the ranges of lasers —meaning its most effective against kamikaze or grenade-dropping drones that must get close to their targets, and less effective against surveillance or missile-armed drones. Thus, laser- and microwave-based defenses may complement rather than compete with each other.

The Army will test trailer-based HPM systems this year, though there’s also a pod for mounting on an 8x8 Stryker vehicle, which means the APC may be fielded in three different air defense variants.

Beyond Stinger: towards new cruise missile defenses

Army IFPC battalions must also tackle one more threat that their mobile counterparts can’t handle: downing cruise missiles . While Stinger and Land Phalanx have some anti-cruise missile capability, neither is ideal, due to limited range.

Upgrading a laser to rapidly cause major physical damage requires a notable leap in output. That the Stryker’s 50-kilowatt weapon can burn drones out of the sky is notable, but the Army is also testing a ‘Valkyrie’ truck armed with a 300-kilowatt High Energy Laser powerful enough to burn through the skins of cruise missile before they reach their target. If testing this year is successful, the Army may procure Valkyrie in 2025 for its IFPC battalions. An even more powerful 500-kilowatt air defense laser is also being developed by the Army.

But the cruise missile threat is deadly and costly enough that it does also warrant the expenditure of counter-missiles. Back in 2019, Congress forced the Army to test-adopt two Israeli-designed Iron Dome batteries for cruise missile defense. But the Army was never enthused by them, and leased those systems back to Israel after the outbreak of war in Gaza last October. It’s now pursuing an “Increment 2” alternate solution based on the Enduring Shield launcher by Leidos/Dynetics, armed with heat-seeking Sidewinder missiles and seen as more capable against faster cruise missiles.

The service began receiving the first of 16 launchers in an Enduring Shield battery for testing in December of 2023—15 months behind schedule. Each launcher is truck-mountable, and holds up to eighteen heat-seeking AIM-9X Sidewinders (though only 60 Sidewinders are being delivered for testing). It’s also compatible with laser-guided AGM-114L Hellfire missiles and (possibly) Iron Dome’s low-cost Tamir interceptor missile.

If the Army’s plans come to fruition, these launchers may deploy alongside new sensor and guidance systems: Leidos’s secrecy-veiled ALPS 360-degree passive persistent surveillance sensor, Lockheed’s RIG-360 remote guidance datalink, and improved Sentinel AN/MPQ-64A4 radars (one for every four-launcher platoon). The Sentinel A4 features a new jam-resistant gallium-nitride AESA antenna with greater resolution, new capability to detect and determine the origin point of mortar and rocket artillery attacks, and a 75% range boost.

At the same time, the Army has allocated $204 million in 2025 for Raytheon and Lockheed to develop proposed successors to the Stinger missile for M-SHORAD units called the Next-Generation Short Range Interceptor, with a production decision scheduled by 2027. The Army specifies that NGSRI should remain compatible with existing Stinger launchers while flying faster to target, being more resilient against countermeasures, and remaining effective against drones with low heat signatures.

Under the same budget heading, the Army is funding the development of proximity air-bursting XM1223 multi-purpose shells to enhance the lethality of the 30-millimeter guns on air defense Strykers.

The diversity of new systems being developed and fielded reflects the breadth of air defense threats posed by drones and cruise missiles, which may approach at speeds ranging from 60 to 4,000 miles per hour and at altitudes ranging from near ground level to tens of thousands of feet high. While the optimal mix of systems is being determined, effective integrated air defenses (IADS) are multi-layered and incorporate diverse defeat mechanisms so that no single counter-counter-measure on an incoming drone or missile guarantees success.

Sébastien Roblin has written on the technical, historical, and political aspects of international security and conflict for publications including 19FortyFive, The National Interest, MSNBC, Forbes.com, Inside Unmanned Systems and War is Boring. He holds a Master’s degree from Georgetown University and served with the Peace Corps in China. You can follow his articles on Twitter . 

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Barcelona bus route removed from map apps to tackle tourist overcrowding

Residents welcome removal of number 116 route, often used to get to Park Güell

While some places will go to any lengths to attract visitors, residents of La Salut neighbourhood in Barcelona are celebrating a move to wipe themselves off the map.

For years, residents had complained that they could not get home because the number 116 bus was always crammed with tourists visiting Antoni Gaudí’s Park Güell. The park is the city’s second most popular attraction after the Sagrada Familia basilica.

Now they have the bus to themselves after the city council arranged to have the route removed from Google and Apple maps.

“We laughed at the idea at first,” said César Sánchez, a local activist. “But we’re amazed that the measure has been so effective.”

Luz López, 75, told elDiario.es: “Before, the bus was so full even people with walking sticks couldn’t get on.”

Albert Batlle, the deputy mayor of security and coexistence on the city council, said that as well as improving mobility around Park Güell, “we needed to eliminate references to the 116 on the internet”.

Batlle declined to admit or deny that the council had asked for the route to be removed, while a Google spokesperson would only say they would not delete a bus route unless requested to do so by the council.

Sánchez, who has been campaigning for eight years for the council to address the problem, joked: “The next thing we need to do is to get the whole of Park Güell removed from Google Maps.”

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