3 tips for first-time cruisers

Booking your first cruise can be overwhelming, with so much choice and information out there. Here are our top tips on how to get it right

1. Book through a cruise specialist

It is easy to be tempted by cheap cruise offers online, but if this is your first voyage, then it makes sense to consult a travel agent and make sure you find the right ship for you. However, you can do your homework in advance and have an idea about the type of ship and holiday you would prefer. If you would like to go on a smaller cruise and stay closer to land, then a river cruise may suit best, as you still have a variety of facilities on-board and can easily dock in the heart of the city. Meanwhile an ocean cruise provides additional entertainment, dining options and activities for families, with more days onsea. Speak with an agent about your tastes, age ranges and the kind of holidays you have taken in the past, and they will help choose the perfect liner and destination.

2. Be organised

Have a rough idea about what you would like to see and do while on the cruise, but make sure not to overload your itinerary so that you end up exhausted! When you have limited time, booking shore excursions in advance can be less stressful. Commit to doing at least one thing at each port, rather than trying to do everything.

3. Manage your money

All cruise liners operate a cashless system on-board. This means that you register a card when you check in and then charge everything to your cruise account as you go. However, if you are on a cruise that isn’t all-inclusive, there is the possibility of overspending during your holiday, whether that’s on drinks, money for casino chips or spa treatments. It is worth checking out what currency is used on-board to be aware what the exchange rate is, so you don’t lose out. Speak to the cruise specialist about all your inclusions before you book, so you know in advance exactly what your holiday will cost.