Booking Your Cruise
When to Book
Book 6-12 months ahead for best cabin selection. Last-minute deals exist but offer limited choices. Peak seasons (summer, holidays) book up fast.
Payment Timeline
Deposit due at booking (usually $100-500 per person). Final payment typically due 90 days before sailing. Cancel before final payment for full refund minus deposit.
What's Included
Cruise fare includes: cabin, all meals in main restaurants, entertainment, pools/fitness, kids clubs. NOT included: specialty dining, alcohol, shore excursions, WiFi, gratuities (usually $16-20/day).
Research ships with detailed specs and reviews
Choosing Your Cabin
Inside Cabin
No windows, most affordable. Great if you plan to be out exploring all day. Darker for sleeping.
Oceanview
Window (doesn't open). Natural light but can't go outside. Good middle option.
Balcony
Private outdoor space. Worth it for scenic routes (Alaska, Mediterranean). Great for morning coffee.
Suite
Larger space, extra perks (priority boarding, specialty dining, concierge). Significant price jump.
Pro Tip: Midship, lower decks have the least motion if you're worried about seasickness.
What to Pack
Essential Documents
- ✓Passport (for all international cruises)
- ✓Cruise documents (luggage tags, boarding info)
- ✓Travel insurance policy
- ✓Credit card for onboard account
Cruise Must-Haves
- ✓Power strip (without surge protector)
- ✓Magnetic hooks for cabin walls
- ✓Lanyard for cruise card
- ✓Reef-safe sunscreen
Clothing Tips
- ✓Light layers (ships are air-conditioned)
- ✓Formal attire if cruise has formal nights
- ✓Comfortable walking shoes for ports
- ✓Swimsuit and cover-up
In Your Carry-On
- ✓Medications (luggage can be delayed)
- ✓Swimsuit (pools open before cabins)
- ✓Phone charger
- ✓Dramamine/Bonine just in case
Embarkation Day
Arrive Early (Noon-1pm)
Earlier boarding = more time to explore before it gets crowded. Avoid arriving at your assigned time if it's late.
Drop Off Luggage
Porters take your tagged luggage at the terminal. It will be delivered to your cabin (can take a few hours).
Check-In & Security
Show passport, get your cruise card (your cabin key, ID, and charge card). Go through security like an airport.
Explore & Eat
Cabins may not be ready until 1:30-2pm. Head to the buffet for lunch, explore the ship, hit the pool!
Muster Drill (MANDATORY)
Safety briefing before sailing. Usually 15-30 minutes. Skip it and you could be removed from the ship.
Dining on Board
Main Dining Room (MDR)
Included in your fare. Multi-course meals with waiter service. Fixed dining time or "anytime" dining available on most ships.
Buffet
Included. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Casual, no reservations. Great for quick meals or picky eaters.
Specialty Restaurants
Extra charge ($25-75 per person). Steakhouse, Italian, sushi, etc. Worth trying at least once for special occasion.
Room Service
Usually included (sometimes small fee for certain items). Available 24/7 on most ships. Perfect for breakfast on your balcony.
Discover ports and plan your shore adventures
Shore Excursions
Book Through Cruise Line
Pros: Ship won't leave without you, curated experiences, easy booking.
Cons: More expensive, larger groups, less flexibility.
Book Independently
Pros: Often 30-50% cheaper, smaller groups, more authentic.
Cons: You're responsible for getting back to the ship on time!
Pro Tip: For your first cruise, book at least one excursion through the cruise line to see how it works. Explore independently at familiar ports.
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