Longtime cruisers know how exciting and yet relaxing a cruise can be. World-class entertainment, scrumptious dining options and adventure activities are just steps away from your stateroom. Out at sea, the stars are brighter than they are on land, and when you open your eyes in the morning, you’re often in a new destination. If you’re dreaming of a trip that’s bound to be memorable, here’s how to plan a cruise for the first time.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CRUISE FOR FIRST-TIME CRUISERS
With hundreds of ports of call around the world spanning from the Caribbean to Europe to the South Pacific and beyond, the options of where to go for your first-time cruise are nearly limitless. If you’re not sure where to begin, one of the best first-time cruise tips is to look at how much time you have to travel. If you’re searching for a quick getaway, a short cruise to Mexico, the Caribbean or Catalina Island might be within reach. Or, if longer escapes are more your style, embark on a seven-night (or longer) cruise to Europe, Asia, the South Pacific and beyond. There is bound to be a cruise that fits your dream destination and ideal length of time.
Embrace your spontaneous side. If a great cruise deal catches your eye, jump on it! One of my favorite cruises happened only after a friend invited me to come along on a week-long cruise to the Caribbean, one of the best places to travel for beginners. We spent the week ziplining over the treetops of Antigua, scuba diving with reef sharks off Grand Turk, kayaking in the calm waters of Saint Kitts and Nevis and indulging in spa treatments. Cruises are all about embracing new experiences with many of the comforts you have at home, so there’s no wrong way to choose one.
If you’re traveling as a couple, a cruise offers a romantic retreat from the everyday. Spend your time clinking glasses to a stunning sunset from your private balcony or walking hand in hand down wisps of white sand. If you’re cruising with the whole family, there’s an activity for every generation. Kids will love the excitement happening at the ship’s Adventure Ocean — a youth program with kid-friendly lounges, science labs, water sports activities, games and entertainment. Adults will enjoy the endless entertainment, workshops and dining options. Wondering how to plan a cruise for the first time as a solo traveler? With so many activities and hangout spaces onboard, it’s easy to make friends all throughout the ship. In fact, I met some of my best travel buddies at a cruise trivia tournament.
CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
Once you book your cruise, select the shore excursions you’ll want to do during your trip. These range from shopping trips, walking tours, cooking classes, cultural performances, zip lines, ATV rides, scuba diving and snorkeling trips and countless other activities. Your shore excursions will help you decide what to pack on your trip, so it’s wise to think about them before you set sail.
Meal, drink and activity packages will also shape your cruise experience and could help you save money. Raise your glass to a Deluxe Beverage Package for unlimited drink options, or opt for a Classic Soda Package if you’d rather stick to bubbly fountain drinks. For foodies, the Unlimited Dining Package will keep your taste buds content with multiple entrées and access to specialty restaurants.
FIRST-TIME CRUISE CHECKLIST
Your first-time cruise checklist should include; identification documents, your wallet, toiletries, medications, sightseeing clothes, swimming attire, a formal outfit, socks and undergarments, sun protection, a camera, binoculars (for wildlife watching), a dry bag, sandals, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses and a hat.
FIRST-TIME CRUISER PACKING TIPS
When you’re packing for your cruise, consider the destination you’ll be traveling to and the weather it’ll likely have that time of year. Lightweight, airy fabrics that easily layer are ideal for cruises to the Caribbean, while jeans, a blouse and a jacket might be more suitable for an autumn cruise to Europe. No matter where you’re going — or how long you’re going for — grab pieces of clothing that are comfortable, versatile and are easy to mix and match. Many itineraries have a formal night onboard, and it’s a fun experience to go all out if you wish.
Multifunctional pieces are wise to bring along on a cruise no matter the destination. A sarong can act as a scarf in chilly weather, a lounge towel on the beach and a cover-up for a night on the town. Sporty sandals with tread will carry you from the pool deck to jungle trails. Meanwhile, a button-up is great for protecting your skin against sunshine and wind and can be dressed up or down. If you’re planning plenty of adventure excursions, pack plenty of athletic attire. If you’ll mostly be exploring city streets, embrace a stylish yet comfortable ensemble. The great thing about a cruise is you only have to unpack once, no matter how many ports of call you visit.
