Selecting Your Cruise

Research indicates that most first time cruisers are focused on where the ship goes and choose cruises based on ports of call. There are several major destinations including Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Hawaii & Asia Pacific, and Mexico to name a few.

Once you have zeroed in on the general area, the next step in how to select a cruise is deciding what kind of port experiences you are looking for. Beaches, shopping, historical sightseeing, action packed excursions… today’s ships offer so many choices of activities that some veteran cruisers often remain on the ship in a few ports of call.

Tip: Most first time cruisers believe they want to be in port and off the ship as much as possible. They often choose what is known as a port intensive itinerary. But, during their first cruise many spend a day or more “At Sea” and they realize that these were some of the most enjoyable days they ever spent. Total relaxation, sleeping ‘til noon, breakfast in bed, a soothing massage, and kicking back by the pool with a good book are a just a few of things that you can do (or not) on a day at sea.

Next is the perennial ship size question. Just like pizzas ships come in small, medium or large. And like toppings their amenities vary widely. Ships considered “smaller” may not have some of the more elaborate facilities found on bigger ships like large theatres, giant casinos, boutiques and ice skating rinks. That being said, the service, dining and ambiance on board these boutique liners is generally held to a higher standard (an expectation of higher rates charged).

If you are traveling with children, finding a cruise with programs available to them becomes very important. Likewise, if you enjoy elaborate entertainment or major casino action, then choosing medium to larger ships may be more suitable.

Clearly, this is a case where one size does not fit all. But by spending a few minutes in contemplation of what you like to do on vacation, you will be able to give your cruise specialist a lot of guidance on how to find and select a cruise for you.

 

Using a Cruise Specialist

Many first time cruisers mistakenly believe that using a cruise agent will cost them more due to fees being charged above and beyond the cost of the cruise. But savvy cruisers know that cruise travel agents receive their compensation from the carrier and do not “mark up” the cost of the cruise.

 In the current market environment, pricing is virtually standardized in terms of rates that a cruise specialist, online seller or cruise line direct planner will see. That’s because the cabin rates they see all come from the cruise line themselves on a common computer “feed”. Cruise lines generally discourage rebating and discounting and for all practical purposes rate quotes are consistent.

 One thing that a knowledgeable cruise agent does bring to the party is that they don’t have a built in bias to one line over another. Sure they may have their personal favorite, but they also know that to get you as a repeat customer the important thing is that they get the cruise that is right for YOU and not for THEM. They can view multiple cruise lines, departure dates and promotions to develop the best offer available.

 Cruise specialists also deliver an important intangible ingredient – insider tips, knowledge about pre and post cruise logistics, and personal experience. It is a good idea when selecting a cruise travel agent, first “interview” them for the job. Gauge their cruise experience, how long have they been in their business, and the reputation of their company. Remember anyone with a few dollars can have a slick web site. Don’t be shy to ask for credentials and references.

 Ask your cruise specialist to look for “specials” once you have narrowed down the choices. There’s a myriad of offers available at any given time such as Senior, Military, Regional, and Past Passenger rates as well as cruise line on board credits, upgrade programs and transportation credits. A good cruise agent will research all these programs to check if you are eligible to take advantage of any or all of them.

 Next time you are going on a cruise take a friend along – a good, knowledgeable cruise agent. You’ll be glad you did.