A cruise is one of the easiest ways to see a lot of places without living out of a suitcase. But first-timers tend to make the same handful of mistakes, and most of them happen before the ship ever leaves port. Here's what to watch for.
1. Picking the cruise line by price alone
Cruise lines have very different personalities. Some are built for families, with water slides and kids' clubs; others are quieter, more adult, or focused on food and longer port days. The cheapest fare on the wrong line can make for a long week. Start with the kind of trip you want, then compare prices among the lines that fit.
2. Flying in the morning of departure
Ships leave on schedule, with or without you. One delayed or cancelled flight can mean missing the boat entirely. Plan to arrive the day before, stay near the port, and start the trip relaxed instead of watching the clock.
3. Choosing the wrong cabin location
Not all cabins in the same category are equal. Cabins right below the pool deck or a nightclub can be noisy, and cabins at the very front of the ship feel more motion. If you're worried about seasickness, a cabin low and in the middle of the ship is the steadiest.
4. Underestimating the extras
Your fare covers your cabin, most meals and entertainment, but drinks, specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi, gratuities and shore excursions usually cost extra. They add up quickly. Knowing what's included up front, and whether a drink or Wi-Fi package is worth it for you, avoids a surprise bill on the last night.
5. Waiting too long to book
The best cabins, the most popular sailings and holiday weeks sell out early, and fares on popular itineraries tend to rise as the ship fills. Booking well ahead usually gets you more choice and better promotions, and many fares can be adjusted if a better deal comes along later.
6. Skipping travel insurance
Medical care at sea and in foreign ports isn't covered by most U.S. health plans, and an evacuation from a ship can be extraordinarily expensive. A good policy also protects what you've paid if illness or a family emergency forces you to cancel.
The easy way to get it right
A travel advisor's help usually costs you nothing extra when booking a cruise, and you get someone who knows which ship, which cabin and which itinerary fit your group, plus the onboard credits and perks that are easy to miss booking on your own. If a first cruise is on your list, tell me a little about who's going and when, and I'll put together a few options worth considering.