SMOOTH SAILING
So you’re thinking about going on your first cruise. Good. Plan it right and you’ll likely come home with great stories to tell.
While many aspects of a cruise are enjoyable, two items are the most important. No. 1: Pick a ship that reflects your personality, your interests and your budget. No. 2: Don’t try to see all of Rome in a day, as they say.
Cruising prices are not allinclusive but do include your room, meals and entertainment. Specialty restaurants, bars, tours and gratuities are usually addons. Larger ships cater to families. By booking early you can find cabins that connect or are across the hall. These ships are perfect for families with kids. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Disney are four lines in this category. Other ships have kids’ programs but still cater towards adults. Azamara, Princess, Holland America, Oceania are four such lines.
If money’s no object, take your pick of luxury and upper-premium ships. River cruising is also a more-expensive option.
For me, a cruise is an appetizer. One day in Venice and I’m already planning a much longer stay later, which I’ve done. But we’re all different. Caribbean cruisers often go mostly for the sun, while European cruisers usually load up their must-see lists. Insurance is costly. However, with the Danube’s lowwater level problems this year, insurance might have been wise. While affected cruise lines offered changing ships or busing to hotels and ports, a cancel-for-any-reason policy was an additional safety net. Some things you should know: 1. Motion sickness: If you’re prone to it, pick a lower, mid-ship cabin. Bring your regular “meds.”
2. Beach time: If it’s important, pick a cruise with plenty of ports and beaches nearby.
3. Packing: If you’re a couple, mix clothes and amenities in two bags. Lose one and you’re still good.
4. Monster suitcases: Don’t go crazy. Regular suitcases fit under most cabin beds and you will appreciate the space.
5. Passports and credit cards: Leave photocopies with family.
6. Budget: Be careful. Drinks on ships are expensive. Don’t tip for bar service — it’s usually included. Shore excursions add up. Shop for local tours and consider hop-on, hop-off buses.
7. Ports: Make Google your best friend and visit cruisecritic.com, cruising’s largest social media site. You may find posts from people who have been on your ship and/or itinerary.
8. Where to eat: Ask locals in stores, banks, port staff or people on the street where they like to eat — when three out of five name the same spot, you’ll probably eat like a local.