When booking your cruise, timing can be key! Whether you’re eyeing a specific destination or aiming for the best deals, we can help you find the best itinerary to suit your needs!
Some crucial items to consider are:
- What type of cruise experience would you like?
- Is this a solo, family, or friends vacation?
- When do you have free time for a trip?
- What port or destination would you love to visit?
- What cruise line is the best fit?
Ideally, you can book your next vacation in advance with us so you have ample time to carefully craft your journey and receive the best options available; however, if a quick getaway is what you’re looking for, we can make that happen!
Contact me for exclusive perks and special savings!
Certain things you should consider when choosing a stateroom are comfort vs. cost, the various levels, stateroom types, and personal preferences.
The suites are typically the most spacious, offer the best views, and are usually situated on the higher level of a ship
If you prefer to awaken to the sounds of the ocean breeze, a cabin with a private balcony is best!
This category features a window so you can enjoy the views of your next destination from the comfort of your room!
This term refers to rooms that are typically the most affordable. They are interior onboard the ship which means your cabin doesn’t have a window or balcony.
The following checklist includes cruise essentials that may come in handy on your next cruise vacation. Each destination varies, and as your dedicated travel advisor, I’ll gladly provide additional packing recommendations.
Common Destination Packing Lists.
If you’re traveling to one of the below common destinations, click it to download a sample packing list.
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
- mini hand sanitizers
- refillable water bottle
- essential toiletries, including razors
- electronics/reading material
- headphones
- electronic device chargers
- disposable underwater camera
- digital camera/extra memory cards
- batteries/battery charger
- small umbrella
- small first aid kit
- backpack/daypack
- all required cruise/travel documents, such as passports and visas/proof of citizenship along with photo ID
- medical insurance cards
- wallet including credit cards/cash
- emergency numbers
- prescription/other essential medications
For safety reasons and the protection of the staff as well as fellow passengers, many cruise lines prohibit certain items onboard, such as:
- candles
- clothing iron
- power tools
- more items can be included
Please inquire about specific guidelines pertaining to each individual cruise line.
Gratuities are standard in hospitality, including cruising. When you think about all the hard work everyone on the ship puts in to make your experience incredible, the small tips can go a long way. Most cruise lines include the daily balance of tips to your shipboard account, while others leave tipping ship personnel up to your discretion.
Set sail on your next cruise adventure fully informed with answers to all the most popular questions to ask when booking a cruise. From onboard activities, dining options, staterooms, excursion details and more, we’ve got your cruise ship questions and answers covered to ensure smooth sailing throughout your voyage!
Check out our top 5 FAQs below:
Speak with your Travel Advisor - As dedicated travel advisors, we are equipped with the expertise and ability to provide instant price quotes and valuable booking tips. We can also check inventory for pricing and promotions that are sometimes only available if you call – and not displayed on our website.
Book it on our website - Start by choosing your cruise from our database of over 40 cruise lines, hundreds of ships, and endless itineraries. You can even watch our virtual cruise ship tours, read ship reviews, compare dining menus, and review children’s programs before selecting your perfect vacation.
You should book with us to receive the ultimate value for your next vacation. As your dedicated travel advisor, we will save you time, provide valuable insight, give you access to exclusive offers and support you every step of the way! No matter what kind of getaway you’ve been looking for, we have the answers to the questions to ask when booking a cruise and we can help bring your dream vacation to life.
We always recommend the purchase of travel protection for unanticipated events. Travel protection can cover unexpected expenses for you and any traveling companions if you need to cancel due to an injury, sickness, or another covered reason. It can also pay for certain expenses should a situation requiring medical attention occur on your trip.
Find more information about LeisureCare travel protection or contact your travel advisor for assistance!
Each cruise ship offers different dining options. However, there are various similarities among most cruise lines.
Cruise lines often offer main dining options that are included in your fare. You'll find an array of dining choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Plus, there's virtually no limit on what or how much you can order.
If you decide you don’t want dining service, many cruise lines offer a robust buffet selection that you can go to for each meal. Furthermore, you can book various specialty dining options provided onboard for a fee if you’re craving something different!
A shore excursion is an organized guided tour in a cruise ship's port of call. They are offered all over the world and virtually anywhere a cruise ship stops throughout your cruise itinerary. There are shore excursions for almost any age or physical activity level. Whether you're into water sports like sailing or scuba diving, high adventure activities like white water rafting, hiking, or biking, or less strenuous activities like shopping tours, food tours, museums, or historical sites, you'll find a shore excursion for almost any interest. Contact us to help book shore excursions that fit your vacation desires.
As you continue your research, you may find you have additional questions to ask when booking a cruise – read more valuable information about how to make the best of your cruise, frequently asked questions about what to bring and not bring on your excursion, and more!
Get ready – Know how to prepare for a cruise vacation!
The excitement is setting in, and the anticipation of your upcoming vacation must be growing. Do you know how to prepare for a cruise vacation? Make your getaway even more incredible with these recommendations that ensure you are prepared before you enjoy that incredible voyage!
What’s included in the cost of my cruise?
Maybe you are a first-time cruiser, or perhaps it has been a while since your last cruise. Either way, below is a list of amenities that are typically included in the cost of your cruise:
- Full meals with both plated and buffet-style service options (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Room service on many ships.
- Access to all shipboard facilities, including the casino, pools, hot tubs, gym, and more!
- Supervised children's activities and care offered daily.
- Spectacular entertainment, including but not limited to Broadway-style shows, lounges, nightclubs, movies, dancing, and live music.
- Certain cruise lines even provide access to private island beaches in Caribbean destinations.