The entire idea of going on a cruise may be daunting for newcomers, but
it shouldn't be. Simply avoid these 10 common mistakes and you'll be cruising
like a pro in no time.
Pick the Wrong Cruise Line
or Ship
Selecting the right cruise line and ship makes a world of difference.
That decision will determine if you fall madly in love with this type of travel
or run screaming from the gangway. Each cruise line has its own style and price
point and each ship has its own vibe that often depends on the ship's age and
amenities, crew, guest contingent, and the ports the ship calls upon. If you
stay at full-service hotels like Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton on land, booking
an inside cabin on a budget line like Carnival or Norwegian Cruise Line might
be a mistake. Likewise, if you're traveling with small children, be sure to
select a company like Disney Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean that caters to
families and offers special programs for kids. The best way to learn about
different cruise lines is to talk with friends and family who have sailed
before, or talk to a well qualified travel agent.
Select the Wrong Itinerary
Deciding on an itinerary goes hand in hand with picking the cruise line
and ship. If, for example, your heart is set on an exotic voyage around
Indonesia, you've got to pick a ship that offers that particular itinerary.
Draw up a list of where you want to go and then cross-reference it with your
short list of preferred cruise lines. That will reveal the best options. Spend
some time reviewing the itineraries listed at each cruise line's website.
Don't pick an itinerary just because it's cheap. Select a voyage because
the ports (or the number of sea days) intrigue you. If you're an outdoorsy
type, small-ship cruising with Un-Cruise Adventures
in Alaska or SeaDream Yacht
Club in the Caribbean might be your style. If you're interested in
the arts, maybe a Mediterranean cruise calling on the major cities of Europe is
your best bet. If you hate the cold weather, Antarctica might not be your idea
of fun. Think about your vacation style on land and then pick a voyage that has
a similar profile.
Book the Wrong Cabin
Some people think that every cabin on a cruise ship is the same. That's
simply not the case. You can choose from a variety of options that include
inside cabins with no windows to the outside world, ocean view rooms that are
outfitted with either a porthole or picture window, or a suite with a balcony.
Various cabin categories also come with different amenities. Regent Seven Seas
and other cruise lines offer butler service to suite passengers. Some cruise
lines, like Celebrity and Costa, also offer special "spa" cabins that
are situated near spa facilities and include certain treatments in the per
passenger fare. Think about what's important to you and select a cabin
accordingly.
If you're new to cruising or are sailing in what are traditionally
rough waters, you may wish to book a cabin on a low deck, midship. This is
where you'll feel the least amount of movement, which can help if you're prone
to seasickness.
Neglect Passport and Visa
Requirements
Whenever you book an overseas vacation, it's important to research any
passport or visa requirements. The US Department of State offers detailed information regarding requirements of countries
throughout the world. Be sure you carry the right credentials. Otherwise, the
cruise line will have no choice but to deny you boarding or keep you on the
ship if you don't have the necessary visa to visit a port of call. (In many
areas of the world, the cruise line provides a "blanket" visa for
everyone on board so you don't have to worry about it. Carefully read your
cruise documentation to see if that's the case during your vacation.)
Skip the Travel Agent
One of the most costly mistakes first-time cruisers make is going it
alone. Use a competent travel agent that specializes in cruising. He or she
will be an invaluable resource as you pick your cruise line, ship, cabin, and
itinerary. Travel agents can also step you through any visa requirements. And,
best of all, using a travel agent costs you nothing. In fact, oftentimes you'll
find the best pricing from agents who may also include extras like pre-paid
gratuities, a complimentary spa treatment or shore excursion, a welcome amenity
in your cabin, or a cash-back rebate on your cruise fare.
There's one additional benefit of using a travel agent. If something
goes wrong during your vacation (and let's hope it doesn't), contact your agent
and it's now his or her problem to solve. Always enlist your agent to handle
issues on your behalf.
Pass on the Specialty
Restaurants
I
f you've never been on a cruise before, you may not realize that each
ship offers a variety of dining options. You'll always have the choice of dining
in the "main" restaurant, but don't discount the other options. Many
ships have "specialty" restaurants—some of which charge an extra fee
and some that don't. The menu may feature steaks and seafood or Italian cuisine
or sushi. These dining rooms are often gems. Make sure to make reservations for
all the restaurants you want to try as soon as you board the ship (if you
haven't done so prior to embarkation).
Forget Port Prep
First-time cruisers often forget to pre-plan their days in port. A
newbie cruiser may sleep in, have a leisurely breakfast, and then seek out
information about the port the ship is docked at—only to find out that it's too
late to book one of the ship's shore excursions (they probably departed hours
earlier). Before you leave home, decide which ports you really want to explore
and draw up a short list of places to sightsee. Review the ship's shore
excursion options, book a private guide in advance, or buy a map and go the DIY
route.
If you're in Rome, for example, and want to tour the Vatican, get in
line early. Otherwise, the wait may be too long when you arrive in the
afternoon and you'll run the risk of missing the boat (literally) at the end of
the day.
Miss Port Talks and
Lectures
If you didn't have time to do any research on your itinerary's ports of
call, be sure to attend the nightly "port talks" that give the lay of
the land and include details like if there is a free shuttle from the port to
the center of town, where to find taxis or ATMs, can't-miss sights, and souvenir
options.
Most cruise ships also host experts that give lectures on topics of
interest or about the history of the region in which you're cruising. These
events are a fantastic way to learn more and meet fellow passengers. Don't miss
them.
Options Unknown
Each cruise line is different so it's important to do a bit of
research—or talk with your travel agent—to find out about things like beverage
packages, laundry service, Internet access, and more. Some lines will only let
you buy a beverage package on the first day of the cruise so it pays to
research or ask onboard. Head to the reception desk to get more details and
arrange for packages.
Avoid the Crew
Finally, don't forget to interact with the ship's officers and crew.
These individuals travel for a living and can probably share a lot of
little-known facts about the ship and the ports of call you'll visit. The crew
can also share some amazing stories about their own travels. Take the time to
stop and chat with the crew whenever you can, you'll be glad you did.
And if you are looking for a well qualified Travel Agent...check out www.RMHTravel.com
